BETTIS, Mary Ann Burzee 1814-1894

BETTIS, BURZEE

Posted By: Marilyn O'Connor (email)
Date: 8/21/2006 at 13:22:29

Osage News April 5, 1894

Died

At her home in Wayne township March 26, Mrs. Mary Ann Bettis. Mary Ann Burzee was born on Grand Isle in Lake Champlain, April 15, 1814, where she resided with her parents until the year 1834, when she was united in marriage to Joseph Bettis and went to Williston, Vermont to live; remaining there until the fall of 1868, when they came to Burrit, Ill. After a residence there of two years they came to Iowa, and have lived every since on the farm purchased by them 24 years ago. Deceased was the mother of several children, six of whom with a foster sister and the aged husband are left to mourn.

She was know among her friends and neighbors as an exemplary woman. Being a great sufferer the last 12 years of her life, her kind administrations were confined chiefly to her home associates; and many are the tears that will start at recollection of words of sympathy or the little deeds of kindness from mother. Only the sorrowing home circle can recount the numberless expressions of anxiety and affection for her loved ones. Truly her children shall rise up and call her blessed. She died as she had lived, surrounded by her dear ones whose loving hearts and willing hands ministered to her every wish.

Funeral services were held at the home Tuesday, March 28 at 1 o'clock p.m., Rev. Starring of Riceville, officiating; using for his text the 12th verse of the 13th chapter of 1st. Cor.

She crossed on her bosom her pulseless hands,

And fearlessly entered the phantom bark.
We felt it guide from the silvery sands

And all our sunshine grew suddenly dark,

Over the river the boatsman pale
Carried our mother to realms of day,
And we know she is safe on the other side,
Where all the ransomed and angels be.