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John Rice Nisley 1827-1909

NISLEY, BURK, BERRY, WRIGHT

Posted By: Lynn McCleary (email)
Date: 9/30/2021 at 09:51:58

Muscatine Journal
Tuesday, November 17, 1909 Page 4

Pioneer Resident Called by Death

J. R. Nisley Passed Away Early Today

Well Known Attorney and Business Man Succumbs to Ailments Incident to Old Age.

J. R. Nisley, a pioneer attorney and old resident of Muscatine, died of old age at Bellevue hospital this morning at 2:15 o’clock, where he was taken about four months ago, in the hope that the excellent treatment and care there would preserve the worn-out machinery just a little longer. Mr. Nisley was one of the best known men in Muscatine county during his prime, but in later years had lived a rather retired life, prompted by failing health and advancing years. He for many years lived at the old home at the corner of Ninth and Orange streets, and following the death of his wife, he could not be induced to leave the old home, but lived there for a considerable time alone. However, as he became less able to care for himself, his daughter, Mrs. J. W. Berry, 209 West Third street, prevailed upon him to received care at Bellevue hospital.

Health Fails

About a year ago Mr. Nisley’s health began to fail more perceptibly and even in his enfeebled condition the profession of his early life appealed to him, and he would frequently be found at the court listening attentively to the trial of cases. However, last summer he failed so rapidly that he was induced to go to Bellevue hospital, where he received every possible attention.
Actively Interested.

J.R. Nisley took a keen and active interest in all public affairs, and gave his unqualified support to those matters he believed to be right. He was also active politically, but rather as a mover for good government than one who desired office. He was, however, elected to the office of alderman in 1857, without solicitation, and re-elected in 1858. In 1859 he was chosen city recorder and filled that office very acceptably for one year.
Jusitce of Peace.

Mr. Nisley, not many years later, was again called in office, being chosen one of the justices of the peace of Muscatine township. His legal knowledge well fitted him for the position, and fairness and impartially marked all of his rulings. During all of this period, Mr. Nisley was practicing law, but soon after embarked in the grocery business at which he remained for a considerable time.

However, for the past 19 years he had lived a life of retirement, and enjoyed the rest earned by close application to business and devotion to his business. Mr. Nisley was almost a lifelong member of the Methodist church, and took an active part in the affairs of the institution.

Born in East.

John Rice Nisley was born at Dauphin, Pa., September 2, 1827, and shortly after his marriage in 1850, to Miss Lydia Ann Burk, came west, locating permanently in Muscatine. To this union, two children were born, one dying in infancy, and Mrs. J. W. Berry, of Muscatine. Mrs. Nisley died about 1854, and in 1858, Mr. Nisley was united in marriage to Mrs. Susan Wright, who preceded her husband in death 14 years ago. Besides his daughter, Mrs. Berry, Mr. Nisley leaves seven grandchildren.

Funeral Arrangements.

The remains of Mr. Nisley were removed this morning to the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. W. Berry, 209 West Third street. The funeral arrangements have not yet been completed, pending word from Mr. Berry, who is out of the city.
Note:

Both Susan and John Rice Nisley are buried at Greenwood Cemetery in Muscatine.


 

Muscatine Obituaries maintained by Lynn McCleary.
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