Reid, James McWhinney 1839-1921

REID, JEFFREY, FARLEY, MCMEEKIN

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 8/13/2010 at 15:36:05

The Grinnell Herald (Grinnell, Iowa) July 12, 1921

JAMES MCWHINNEY REID

Another of our aged and most highly respected citizens has been called to his reward in heaven.

James McWhinney Reid was born in County Down, Ireland, March 2, 1839. When, therefore, on last Tuesday afternoon, without a sign of distress, he just quietly ceased to breathe, and went beyond the veil into the eternal world, he had lived eight-two years, four months, and three days.

The first 25 years of his life were spent in Ireland. He came to America in 1864, and lived for six years at Coal Valley, Illinois. During that time, on December 30, 1869, he was married to Miss Sarah Jeffrey, who for nearly 42 years was his faithful companion and helper, sharing with him all the joys and sorrows of life. In 1870, they moved to the neighborhood of Ewart, Iowa, where they lived the rest of their lives. She was called to her eternal home, September 3, 1911. Since that time, he has made his home with his son, James, and went with him to Grinnell last spring. It was there that he peacefully sank to rest, July 5, 1921.

Seven children were born into the family. Four of them died in infancy or early childhood. Three are still living to mourn his loss; Mrs. Clara M. Farley, of near Ewart; John A. Reid, of Malcom and James C. Reid, of Grinnell. One sister still lives: Mrs. William McMeekin, of Coal Valley, Ill.

Early in life he professed his faith in the Lord Jesus, and became a member of the church. When he came to Ewart, he became a member of the Ewart United Presbyterian church, and when he died his name was still on our roll. While health and strength permitted, his regular attendance and deep interest in the work of the church must have been an inspiration to those who had the privilege of being his pastors. He was one of the charter members of his congregation, and his interest in its welfare remained to the end of his life. "He rests from his labors, and his works do follow him."

The funeral was in charge of Rev. R.E. Lackey, the sermon being preached by Rev. W.W. Woodburn, of Grinnell.