Brown, Frank O. 1875-1927

BROWN, HOLMES, JENKINS, BELL

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 5/1/2011 at 17:31:42

The Grinnell Herald; April 29, 1927

FRANK BROWN PASSES AWAY

Frank Opal Brown was born July 4, 1875 in Pontoosuc, Ill. and died at the family home near Searsboro, April 24, 1927 aged 51 years, 9 months and 20 days. When he was 12 years old they moved to Grinnell and he lived in the vicinity the remainder of his life except for the time spent with Company K, 50th Iowa Regiment, in the south during the Spanish American War. Oct. 12, 1899 he was married to Miss Jennie Holmes. To this unon were born six children, Fred of Grinnell, Lucile, who is a student nurse at Oskaloosa, Leslie, Frank Jr., Genevieve and Grace who are at home.

Besides these he is survived by his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Jenkins of Grinnell, two brothers, Ira and Fred and a sister, Mrs. Edith Bell of Chicago.

He was a loving and helpful companion, a kind father and a congenial neighbor. Musically inclined, he used this gift for the benefit and pleasure of the community in which he lived.

During his illness and severe pain he manifested unusual patience. He talked with his life companion of the future plans of the family, assuring her he was ready to meet his Maker. Fully conscious to the end he bade them all a loving good bye and departed this life early on the Sabbath.

Funeral services were held from the M.E. Church Tuesday afternoon conducted by Rev. Robert Lincoln, who also officiated at the wedding ceremony in 1899. Rev. H.C. Rice read the Scripture and offered prayer. Rev. Glenwood Stanley spoke of the splendid work by the Searsboro Band under Mr. Brown's leadership and its influence on the Church and community.

Bert Abel, as chaplain of the Grinnell Camp of the Spanish American War Veterans, told of his cheerful spirit in observance of duty and his integrity of purpose.

Two songs, "After," and "Does Jesus Care," were sung by Clint Jones and Mrs. Trumbull, personal friends of the deceased. A solo was sung by Mr. Bradley of Searsboro who had been associated with Mr. Brown in his concert work.

Pall bearers were members of his Company: John McBlain, Will Decamp, John Mowitt, Dr. E.S. Evans, Bert Abel and Fred Thorpe.

Russell George sounded taps as the body was tenderly lowered into its resting place in Hazelwood cemetery. The large attendance at the service attested the esteem in which he was held by all who knew him.