Mary Coleman (1859-1899)

COLEMAN

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 7/25/2011 at 23:32:23

From Story County Watchman February 17, 1899

Colo Watchman.

MARY COLEMAN.

Monday at 4 a. m., Miss Mary Coleman died at the home of her father, James Coleman in Colo. She was born October 14, 1859, in Ogle county, Ill., and moved with her parents to New Albany township 27 years ago. She made her home here since, except two years she spent in North Dakota teaching school. She taught school in this county several years. The most of her time was given to home duties that she loved to perform to the last.

The germs of consumption which ended her life, commenced years ago and on her return home a year ago to attend the funeral of her mother. On the advice of her home physician she went Colorado, where she remained until a few weeks ago. Her death since her return home was expected at any time.

The funeral took place Wednesday from the Catholic church, conducted by the pastor, Father Nicholls. At 10 o'clock commenced the Mass of Requiem; immediately after Mass, was the absolution of the body.

The choir under the charge of Grace Owens sang the Gregorian Requium with the Offeratory, "Thy Will Be Done."

After explaining the ceremonies that were performed, he spoke of death, judgment and the final award of the merits of this life. He then spoke on the innocence of life, the faith, the piety and the good example of the deceased.

"Only the actions of the Just,
Smell sweet dead blossoms in the dust."

He then spoke on the importance of salvation above all earthly goods, on the vanity of this world--what shadows we are, and what shadows we follow. He requested all to pray for the departed one.

The sermon was eloquent throughout.

The deceased leaves a father, a brother, and four sisters to mourn her loss.

The funeral was the largest and most imposing ever witnessed in Colo, and perhaps in Story county, May her soul rest in peace.