William W. Paschal 1822-1901

PASCHAL, MCCOY, HUMPHREY, ALBURN

Posted By: Beverly Gerdts (email)
Date: 8/16/2021 at 08:08:26

Columbus Gazette, Columbus Junction, Iowa
Thursday, March 14, 1901
Page 1

In the death of William W. Paschal, which occurred at his home in Columbus City, Sunday last, Louisa county loses one of her oldest citizens. His long residence here, his personality and his profession made him the best known man in the county. We doubt if there is a man, woman or half grown child here who did not know him by sight. He was born in Pickaway co., Ohio, in 1822; he came to Iowa in 1845 and settled near Columbus City. One year later, 1846, he entered upon his career as auctioneer. He pursued this avocation assiduously and very successfully until a little over a year ago, when ill health and old age forced him to retire.

In almost 54 years of service he never had a vacation, but was always found at his post and ready for business. At times it was a heavy one, especially during the war when he was the only licensed auctioneer in southern Iowa. He was married three times, his last wife surviving him. He has three brothers and two sisters who survive him. These are James of Missouri; Isaac, of California, and Allen, of this place, Mrs. Sarah McCoy, of Ottumwa and Mrs. Mary J. McCoy, of Missouri. Seven children survive him. Those by his first wife are George C., of Lenox, John W., Crawfordsville, Emily C. Alburn, of Allerton and Minnie Humphrey, of California. Rufus D., of Burlington, is the son of the second wife, while those of the present widow are William V. and Edwin L. both of whom live with their mother in Columbus City. Mr. Paschal's life was most simple and unpretentious and his funeral was of the same nature. It was a very quiet one, conducted by Rev. Taylor of the M. E. church, at the chapel in the city. The interment was in the cemetery of that place.