Emma Derby (1861-1948?)

DERBY

Posted By: Debra Scott Hierlmeier (email)
Date: 11/26/2008 at 21:21:48

Mrs. Emma Staughton Derby 1861-1948?

Funeral services were held for Mrs. Emma M. Derby Sunday at the Blust-Berthusen funeral home with the Rev. Joseph Gerlt officiating. Interment was at the Graceland cemetery. Mrs. Derby died at the home of her son, Ira, last Friday morning.

Mrs. Derby, daughter of Hardin and Martha Jane Staughton, was born on December 31, 1861, in Osco, Henry county, Illinois. She lived in that community until her marriage to Nathan H. Derby in 1884.

The Derbys started farming near Wilton Junction, Iowa, but after a few years they came to Avoca where they farmed just east of Avoca until 1905. They then moved to town where Mr. Derby engaged for some time in the auto business.

After Nathan Derby’s death in 1931, Mrs. Derby continued to live in her home on Chestnut Street with several of her grandchildren staying with her. About 11 years ago she gave up her home and since had been staying with her children.

Survivors include three sons: Ray Derby of Shelby; Ira Derby and Scott Derby of Avoca; a sister, Mrs. Bert Marten of Sandimas, California and 12 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. A brother, Cyrus and also an infant brother and sister preceded her in death.

From the Scrapbooks of Bessie Gross Gustafsen
Source: Avoca Journal Herald