Ferris, John W. D. – d. 1872

FERRIS

Posted By: Diana Wagner
Date: 7/13/2021 at 21:35:31

Died, April 23rd, 1872, at his father’s residence in Prairie City, John W. D. Ferris, aged 16 years, 10 months, and 21 days.
The deceased was born in the town of Unadilla, State of New York, and at an early age his parents removed with their young charge and two adopted children to the beautiful Wyoming Valley, and took up their abode at Pittston, Pa., where they lived to enjoy their blessings for at least a dozen years. – Then separations took place, and those whom they had adopted and learned to love almost as their own, left the little family of three and came west. In the Spring of 1870 the family removed to Prairie City, where they now reside, having been drawn hither, in a great measure, by the affectionate ties that bound them together in the east.
Young Mr. Ferris was a member of the M.E. Church, and known as a youth of rare qualities. To the parents the stroke is a heavy one, being their only and well-beloved son. The church and Sabbath School mourn the loss of a brother and an active member in one of their important departments. His disease was the fearful epidemic, known as “spotted fever.” His sufferings were intense, and in the short space of 36 hours after the attack he was numbered with the departed. Though, leaving no word of consolation in the last hours of his illness, the sweet smile that lit up his countenance, even in death, was an assurance most dear that he fell asleep in Jesus.
The family tender their heartfelt thanks to the kind neighbors and friends who called in and gave their aid and sympathy; to Dr. Potter, the family physician, who though pressed by calls on every side did not leave his suffering patient a moment longer than necessity required; to Dr. Elwood, of Monroe, who left his wife sick at home to give advice and if possible save the life of a stranger; to Dr. Ward, of Des Moines, who came in answer to a telegram and did all in his power to keep life in the body; and especially to Dr. Adams, who came at the call of mercy and did much toward relieving the suffering one; and lastly to a sympathizing public who have been charitable and kind.
Source: Prairie City (IA) Index; Friday, April 26, 1872