Brown, Nelson La Fayette 1824-1905

BROWN, PROUD, BOURN, MARTIN, MARTINO, NICHOLS, PRATHER, HALTERMAN

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 12/29/2010 at 10:27:12

The Grinnell (IA) Herald; Jan. 6, 1905

NELSON LA FAYETTE BROWN

Nelson La Fayette Brown was born in Huron Co., Ohio, Oct. 5th, 1824. He was married to Miss Abigail Proud December 28th, 1846, who died April 14th, 1854.

Three daughters were born to them, two of whom Miss Emma Brown of Rolling Prairie, Indiana, and Mrs. Hattie Bourn of Cedar Rapids, Neb., survive.

On the 15th of April 1855, Mr. Brown married Miss Rosilia Martin, who preceded him to the better world Jan. 4, 1890. Twelve children were born to this union, eight daughters and four sons. Two daughters died in infancy and one son after arriving at the age of 32 years. The remaining nine are Mrs. Flora Martino and Mrs. H.H. Nichols of Des Moines; Mrs. Nellie Prather of Coulton, S.D.; Mrs. Lillian Halterman and the Misses Anna and Lizzie Brown of Grinnell and Messrs. Emory Brown of Newburg, Hiram O. Brown and Wm. N. Brown of this city, all of whom were present at the funeral services Tuesday.

Soon after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Brown emigrated to this new country and settled in Hickory Grove township, Jasper Co., where they endured the hardships of pioneer life. With the exception of one year spent in an overland trip to Pike's Peak, this vicinity has been his home for 50 years. For the past 22 years his home has been in this city where he enjoyed the confidence and esteem of a large circle of friends.

In early youth Mr. Brown united with the Christian church and until sickness prevented was an active worker in the cause of Christ, being at one time ordained to preach. Upon moving to Grinnell he transferred his membership to the Baptist church and for twenty years was always in his place working for the best interests of the chruch and the betterment of his fellowmen.

About two years ago he suffered a paralytic stroke from the effects of which he never fully recovered. At 3:30 Saturday morning he called his daughter to his bedside and told her he was going home, but that he was ready and willing to go. He soon became unconscious but lingered until 5 o'clock in the afternoon, when he sank to rest, at the age of 80 years, 2 months and 26 days.

Brief funeral services were held at the house Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. conducted by his pastor, Rev. S. Rowland Robinson followed by more extended services and interment at the U.B. church in Hickory Grove township, conducted by his old friend and neighbor, Rev. Richard Breeden.

Among those present from out of town who attended the funeral services were Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Martino, Mr. and Mrs. H.H. Nichols of Des Moines and Rev. and Mrs. Geo. Prather of Coulton, S. Dak.