WRAY, James Porter 1818 - 1905

WRAY, FEE, MCCONKEY, TROXEL, GIBBONS, BLACK

Posted By: Joey Stark
Date: 5/10/2006 at 17:20:15

"The Fairfield Tribune"
December 27, 1905
Pg. 7 Col. 5

Death of J.P. WRAY

James Porter WRAY, a well known old settler of Jefferson county, died at his late home in the southeast part of this city Monday morning, Dec. 25th, aged 87 years, 6 months and 20 days.

Deceased was born in Huntdington (sic. Huntingdon) county, Pennsylvania , June 5, 1818. On Dec. 17, 1840, he was married to Rachel J. FEE, and came to Farifield with his family in 1850. Here he engaged in the general merchandise business for several years, and about the year 1855 removed to a farm north of Fairfield. He remained on this farm until the year 1892, when he again removed to Fairfield , where he resided until his death.

On Jan. 24, 1901, in this city, occurred the death of Mr. WRAY's wife. To them were born twelve children, seven of whom survive them. They are: Mrs. Robt. McCONKEY, of South Ottumwa; Mrs. Fannie TROXEL, who has made her home with and cared for deceased in his declining years; Wm. WRAY, of Memphis, Mo., Chas. WRAY and George WRAY, of this city; Mrs. Ella GIBBONS, of Ottumwa, and Mrs. T.R. BLACK, of Salt Lake City, Utah.

When but a young man Mr. WRAY joined the Baptist church, and until too enfeebled by old age was a regular attendant at its services. He was fervently devoted to his Master and remained a true and faithful Christian to the end. As a citizen he placed duty to his country above all other things. During his long life not once did he fail to cast his ballot at an election, with the exception of the last, at which time he was too feeble to visit the polling place. Of him it might well be said" "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon from the Baptist church, conducted by Rev. Reinking, the pastor, assisted by Rev. Littleton. Interment was made in Evergreen cemetery.

Note: James Porter Wray was actually buried in Old Fairfield City Cemetery, Lot 54, East half.

*Transcribed for genealogy purposes; I have no relation to the person(s) mentioned.