Gray, Devir A. 1849-1899

GRAY, HAY

Posted By: Volunteer Transcriber
Date: 4/29/2005 at 17:17:37

The Newton (IA) Record Thursday, August 24, 1899
Death of D. A. Gray
Gray, Devir A.

It is seldom we have been called upon to chronicle a death which gives more genuine sorrow that that of D. A. Gray, who passed away last Monday evening, about 10 o’clock, at his farm home about one mile east of town. He had been sick about a month and his family and friends had tenderly cared for him, fearing that his disease would take a fatal turn; but only a few days before his death, a change came which gave hope that the crisis had been passed and that his life would be spared. Two of his brothers had arrived from New York and their presence seemed to cheer and revive him wonderfully. But hope had hung upon too slender a thread, he again grew worse, and the end came with all its sorrow and anguish to his friends and loved ones.

Mr. Gray had lived in this vicinity since 1875, had a large circle of friends and acquaintances and was universally respected by everybody. His kindly disposition, prepossessing manners, strict integrity, and sturdy manhood, won for him the affection and friendship of all with whom he ever had any association either socially of in a business way. In his home he was one of the kindest of husbands and most affectionate and devoted fathers; and among his neighbors he was obliging and ready always to lend a helping hand when an opportunity afforded. No one could be more greatly missed in the community than the ever honest, genial Devir Gray. Devir Augustus Gray was born at Lincoln, Cortland Co., N. Y., April 11th, 1849. On the 20th day of June 1875, he was united in marriage to Miss Celinda Hay at Jordanville, N. Y., and in the same year they moved to Iowa, their home having been in this vicinity ever since. Four children were born to them, Howard D., Jesse M., Eva A., and Roy L., all living at the old home to comfort the dear mother who is now with them passing through the darkest hour of their lives. He also leaves his aged parents, four brothers and one sister, all residing in New York State. By honest dealings and persevering industry he had accumulated considerable property, his home place near Newton being one of the prettiest farms in Jasper County. To the widow and fatherless children the tenderest sympathy is extended from neighbors and friends who also share in the sorrow that has come to all of them.

The funeral services were held at the M. E. Church, at 2:30 o’clock yesterday afternoon, Rev. C. V. Cowan officiating, assisted by Rev. B. C. Baumgardner, the music being provided by Mrs. Belle Rodgers, Mrs. Grace Allen and Messrs. Fred Hough and Guy Lain. There was large attendance, which with the beautiful flowers, which almost hid the casket, and surrounded the church altar, attested in a measure the high esteem in which the deceased was held by those who have known him best. After the services a large number of friends followed the remains to our beautiful cemetery, where they were laid to rest until the dawning of the resurrection morn.

Originally submitted on Fri Oct 18 19:50:02 2002