Housel, Josephine (Sherrill) 1830-1906

HOUSEL, SHERRILL, FRENCH, WILSON, OWENS

Posted By: Barbara Hug (email)
Date: 2/7/2005 at 08:39:29

Death claimed another pioneer, Mrs. Josephine Housel, who passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Charles French, last night at 8 o’clock.

Miss Josephine Sherrill was born in the District of Columbia, December 19, 1830. She came to Newton in the year 1857 with Rev. L. B. Crittenden, who will be remembered by old residents of Newton.

Soon after making her home in this place, Miss Sherrill was married to James Wilson, a brother of the late John Wilson. The young husband became a member of the 28th Iowa and was killed in battle in Louisiana in 1864, leaving the young wife a widow with two little girls, Minnie and Lilly. Minnie alone survives and is now Mrs. Minnie Owens of Grant’s Pass, Oregon. After the death of her first husband, Mrs. Wilson was then married to C. J. Housel, who preceded his wife to the great unknown on October 27, 1887.

To them were born two children, one son and one daughter, Clarence and Mary. Mary is still living and is now Mrs. Charles French. Clarence died in infancy.

Mrs. Housel has long been a member of the Presbyterian Church and was a good, true, Christian woman. Having come here in an early day it can be said she was one of the pioneers who helped to sustain and build up the church through its struggling infancy, and was always an active member. Always anxious and ready to respond to her Master’s call in accordance to her ability.

On account of an affliction of the eyes she was always glad when a cloudy Sunday came that she might be bale to attend divine services in the church of her choice. About three months ago she was taken ill and her sufferings were great until the end came.

Funeral services will be held at the residence of Charles French, 111 Coffin Street, tomorrow at 1:30 o’clock, the Rev. F. F. Chambers officiating. A number of friends are expected. ~ The Newton [IA] Daily News, Tuesday, July 17, 1906, Page 1, Column 4