David Lytle Stephens (1835-1882)

STEPHENS, WITHEY

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 11/22/2012 at 21:10:58

From Nevada Representative July 12, 1882

DIED.

In Nevada, Monday July 10, after long suffering from a cancer, David L. Stephens, aged 47 years 4 months and 13 days.

Mr. Stephens was born at Frankfort Springs, Beaver county, Pa. and came to this place in 1856. In the early gold excitement and exodus to Pike's Peak, he was among the number of hardy pioneers who made the trip to that rugged, wild and uninhabited region. While there he enlisted in the First Colorado regiment of mounted infantry and served during three years of the rebellion, mostly upon the frontier. After five years of army and Colorado life, he returned as far as St. Joseph, Mo., where he engaged in business three years. He then returned to Nevada, and in 1868, was married to Miss Mary Withey, and with the exception of a short time in Illinois, had resided here ever since. Four children have been born to them, two of whom passed beyond the dark waters years ago. Five years ago under the influences of Rev. Vinson, he joined the M. E. Church, and by the aid of the new life and its surroundings, was able to throw off the shackles of strong drink which had temporarily controlled him, and ever since has been an exemplary and true christian gentleman. By nature he was one of the kindest and truest of men, his acts and motives always honorable. No one could charge upon him any attempt to wrong others, for in his dealings and business he was above reproach. He was originally the senior member of the firm of Stephens Bros & Hawthorn, grocers, and to his efforts, mainly, the town owes the erection of the three brick business houses north of Union Block. A kind husband and father, a true citizen and genial associate has gone to his final rest.

In the same paper:

In Memoriam.

Resolutions of respect and condolence unanimously passed by the Nevada I. O. O. F. upon the death of our late esteemed citizen, David L. Stephens.

WHEREAS, In view of the loss we have sustained by the decease of our associate and brother, David L. Stephens, and of the still heavier loss sustained by those who were nearest and dearest to him: and

WHEREAS, It is but just that we express our recognition of his merits and virtues, therefore be it

Resolved. That it is but a just tribute to the memory of the departed to say, that in regretting his removal from our midst we mourn for one who was, in every way, worthy of our respect and regard.

Resolved. That we sincerely condole the family of the deceased on the dispensation with which it has pleased Divine Providence to afflict them.

Resolved. That these our heartfelt testimonials of sympathy and sorrow be forwarded to the widow of our deceased brother, and that the same be spread upon the minutes of this Lodge by the Secretary and published in the Nevada papers.

JOHN BEATTY,}
JOHN W. WHITE,} Committee.
JOHN R. HAYS,}