KNIGHT, Martha Byron LEIGH 1823 - 1910

KNIGHT, LEIGH, SUMMERS, COOK

Posted By: Lisa Moaiery (email)
Date: 10/18/2012 at 11:42:17

"The Fairfield Daily Journal"
Monday, January 17, 1910
Page 3, Column 3

Life of Mrs. Martha KNIGHT.

Mrs. Martha KNIGHT met her Master Thursday morning, January 13. Martha Byron LEIGH KNIGHT was born in Bolton, England, June 29, 1823. When about thirteen years of age she came with her parents across the ocean and settled in Philadelphia. Here she was married to George KNIGHT in 1846 and they emigrated to Iowa, which was then the far west.

Mere (sic - Here) she lived the life of the early pioneer. Her life has been one worthy of example. Twice she was called to the grave side to see all that was mortal of her infant children laid to rest. Twenty-four years ago she was again called to mourn the loss of her dear companion.

She then moved to the home of her son James about a mile away, where she lived and was always ready for the summons which came in the early morn, Jan. 13, 1910. Two years ago she had a fall breaking her arm. Although her mind was fast failing her, yet she bore up heroically and bravely, much more so than some of us younger ones would have done, only asking that the dear Lord would take her home.

A few months ago a cancer appeared upon her face, which was the immediate cause of her death and although seemingly not any worse, always able to be up and around, she retired Wednesday evening as well as comon (sic - common). But alas! in an early morning hour an angel had wafted her spirit to the heavenly home and she was past the trials and tribulations of this life. This is but another instance of "In the midst of life we are in death.'

Though her death was unexpected, she was not unprepared for the great change. Her faith was always strong. Her hope was always bright, she having joined the Congregational church in early life.

Great responsibilities have rested upon her shoulders; left a widow she did not murmur or repine. With great courage she accepted the situation and faithfully cared for the family's interests. Of her it can truly be said, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of the Lord."

She leaves to mourn her loss five children, Mrs. Carrie SUMMERS, Mrs. Emma COOK, John H., James L., and Mary Ann. The latter two lived at home with the aged mother. Mrs. COOK is a resident of Madison, Wis., while the others are all respected citizens of Blackhawk township.

Grandmother KNIGHT was one of the early settlers who helped to mould the lives of the generations in which she lived and of those following that makes possible our present Christian civilization and to whom the young men and women of today owe a debt of gratitude. The last services were held Saturday at 11 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Pool at the Moyer church, and a large concourse were present to pay their respects to one whom they had loved in life, after which the remains were taken to Fairfield and laid to rest beside the husband of her youth to await the coming of Him whom she served. Her life ought to persuade all to be better men, better women and better Christians. J.L.R.P.

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"The Fairfield Daily Journal"
Monday, January 17, 1910
Page 3, Column 1

... --Mrs. Emma COOK of Madison, Wis., arrived Saturday, called here by the death of her mother Mrs. Martha KNIGHT. ...

(Note: This is one of several items in a column titled "Local News Briefs".)

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Admin. note: Buried in Evergreen Cemetery, Fairfield, IA, in Lot Old.P.376 with husband George who died in 1885.

Jefferson Obituaries maintained by Joey Stark.
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