Nelson Archibald Willsey 1846-1912

WILLSEY MUCKEY

Posted By: Connie J Swearingen-Volunteer (email)
Date: 9/22/2012 at 21:37:10

Mapleton Press
25 April 1912

DEATH OF NELSON A. WILLSEY

Former Resident of Old Mapleton Dies at White Lake, South Dakota

The citizens of Mapleton and vicinity were surprised and shocked last Friday to hear of the death of Nelson A. Willsey which took place at his home near White Lake. S. D., April 18, after a short illness. A little more than a week before he had visited relatives at this place, and was apparently in good health. After his return home he was attacked with pneumonia, and only lasted a few days.

Nelson Archibald Willsey, the son of Wm. H. and Sarah Jane Willsey, was born Nov. 19, 1846, in Henry County, Illinois. In August 1855, when a small boy, he removed with his family to Monona county and settled on a f arm which afterwards became the site of the town of Mapleton, now known as the old town, which is about one mile west of the present town of Mapleton.

Wm. H. Willsey was among the pioneers of the county and was prominent in the early politics and business of the county. Nelson grew to manhood on the home place. He was married Oct 10, 1869, to Miss Margaret Muckey, a native of Wisconsin. After the death of his father Nelson came into possession of the home farm, and continued to live on the same until 1895, when he sold his extensive land holdings in this county and purchased a large farm near Anthon, Iowa. In 1910 he removed to White Lake. S. D., and remained there until his death. The death of his wife took place Sept. 28, 1911.

Fourteen children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Willsey, seven of whom survive; Vernon H, John J, Miss Clarissa, Mrs. George Gillette and Mrs. Pearl Brannum of White Lake, Mrs. Will Currence, of Kimball S.D., and William J. of Oakton, S. D.

Mr. Willsey was a man who was well thought of in the communities where he lived, and was devoted to his family. He engaged very heavily in farming and stock raising and feeding. At the time of his death he was a member of the Odd Fellows and K.P. orders.

The remains were brought to this place and the funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon at 2:30 from the M. E. church, Rev. Ladd officiating. The Odd Fellows lodge of this place attended in a body. The obsequies were largely attended, interment taking place in Heisler cemetery beside
the remains of his wife and children, who passed on before.

Headstone
 

Monona Obituaries maintained by Linda Ziemann.
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