POTTER, Parrilla (Crouch) 1824-1906

POTTER, CROUCH, BETTS, PELTON, MESSINGHAM, SHUPE

Posted By: Marilyn O'Connor (email)
Date: 11/6/2008 at 08:23:39

Osage News
Nov. 8, 1906

POTTER

Parrilla Crouch came into life in the town of Jay, Essex County, New York, on May 16, 1824 and passed away October 29, 1906.

When she was eight years of age, her parents moved to Washington, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Here she grew to womanhood, and was married to Stillman Potter in 1844. Here also was given them eight of their nine children. Stoddard the youngest, being given after they moved to Iowa.

They moved to Iowa in 1862, settling near Stacyville, and Mitchell County has since been her residence until her decease. Five years ago they moved to Osage. Mr. Potter died on March 12, 1904. Mrs. Potter has gradually gone down, until she dwelt in the mists of "The Dark Valley of the Shadows". For weeks she has been confined to the bed, suffering, but patient, desiring to live, but willing to abide her Father's will.

Their married life was blest in being spared to live together for sixty years as helpmeets in the rearing of their family, all of whom they saw come to maturity, and settle in life's duties. She made public confession of faith in Christ as her Saviour, when she was fourteen years of age and united with the Christian church.

Upon coming to Iowa, she became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which church she was a member for forty-three years. Her Bible was ever within reach and it was her constant reading. Seldom did she read papers or other books. She loved her friends and greeted them with a glad look till the last.

Her mind was clear and allowed her intelligently to converse with those about her.

Having carefully directed the children in their development, she was happy in their kindly, loving ministry during her illness.

One child and her husband having preceeded her to "the better land," she leaves eight children. They are Lewis Potter, Colorado; Harriet Betts, McIntire,Iowa; Mary E. Pelton, Osage, Iowa; Bethuel Potter, Hale City, Wisconsin; Myron Potter, McIntire, Iowa; Roxania Messingham, Sissteon, South Dakota; Eva Shupe, Mi. Peia, North Dakota; Stoddard Potter, Osage, Iowa; besides a number of grandchildren.

The funeral services were held at her late residence in this city conducted by her pastor, Frank P. Shaffer, who was assisted by Mrs. Bisbee, Mrs.Rogers. Mr. Greenhalgh and Mr. Dodge, who sang hymus of hope and comfort. After which she was loving laid to rest in the cemetery in Osage.