James Briley (1827-1893)

BRILEY, CLARK

Posted By: Diane Hicks (email)
Date: 4/24/2003 at 15:32:27

James Briley, oldest son of Abraham [sic] and Hannah Briley, was born in Clay County, Indiana, Aug. 22nd, 1827. Departed this life April 16, 1893. He resided in his native state until manhood. In the year 1847 he moved to Fulton County, Ill., and resided there until 1851 when he came to Iowa with his mother and family and settled on the farm in Story County, which he has occupied ever since. He united with the U. B. Church in the year 1856 of which he has been an active member till death.

Father Briley took sick about 2 weeks ago and from the first felt that it was his last sickness.

A week ago last Saturday he called the family about him, and told them he was soon to go. "Oh do not weep!" said he, "but meet me in heaven; I am trusting in Jesus."

Repeatedly was it said of him, by old neighbors and friends, as they gathered about the coffin to take the last look before leaving the old home, "He was a good man, if we could only live as well", etc.

The funeral service was held April 18, in the Disciples church at Ontario, Rev. B. Clark of the U. B. church of Ames preaching the sermon, from the words: "And white robes were given unto every one of them and it was said unto them, that they should rest." A large assembly of friends and neighbors gathered to pay the last tribute of respect to this time honored and highly esteemed friend and neighbor, and to share with the family their sorrow. He leaves a wife and children to mourn his loss. In the death of James Briley the community has lost a good citizen, the church a worthy member and the family a loving husband and father. But what is our loss may prove his gain. May the God of all grace comfort and console the sorrowing ones.