Myrtle Irene Huffman (1973)

HUFFMAN, HARRISON, BENSON

Posted By: Pat Hochstetler (email)
Date: 1/29/2007 at 18:30:20

Earlham Library Collection
Earlham Echo - February 1973
Earlham, Iowa

Myrtle Irene Huffman was the fourth child of Thomas and Emma Jane Harrison Benson. She was born in Dallas County, Iowa, December 27, 1879. Her early childhood was spent on the Benson homestead and her first schooling was at the Garden Grove school near her home. She completed a course in the Earlham Academy and with her desire to further her education she attended the Dexter Normal Training school and it was from here she received her teaching certificate.

When members of the Benson family pioneered to South and North Dakota, Myrtle saw this as an opportunity to work with young people and to help promote an educational program in the rural area of this new country. She later taught in Iowa a number of years.

In early life she was converted and became a member of the Hickory Grove United Brethren Church. Myrtle's greatest desire and love in life was her teaching of both rural school and the Sunday school class of the church, having taught in the church school for over fifty years.

She was married to Byron F. Huffman on February 21, 1911. They established their home in Dallas county and lived here many years.

When the doors of the Hickory Grove church were closed they moved their membership to the Earlham Methodist church.

Her declining years were spent in the Earlham Maple Lin Manor. While unable to attend the church service, her devout Christian life was exemplified by the concern she has shown for her church, never losing interest and always willing to testify to the Love of her Master.

Death claimed her on Saturday morning, February 3, 1973. She was the last of her brothers and sisters to be called, having lived 93 years, one month and seven days. She will be missed by her many friends and relatives.

Funeral services for Mrs. Huffman were held on Monday, February 5, at the Earlham United Methodist church. Rev. Ward Young was in charge of the service. Gretchen Brittain played organ selections. Casket bearers were Russell Ralston, Ralph Robinson, Dwayne Applegate, Russell Hoskins, Wilbur Russell and Beryl Kenworthy. Interment was in the Earlham cemetery. Evans Funeral Home made the arrangements.