RAINES, Lillias L. (1857-1903)

RAINES

Posted By: Carol Morrison (email)
Date: 8/3/2006 at 08:16:04

Obituary from the Toledo Chronicle, Toledo, Iowa, February, 1903:
"LILLIAS LEONORA RAINES
There are some given to the world who so conduct themselves that others admire the almost spotless life that they are living. Their very presence seems an inspiration to others to be better. Such a life was that of Lillias Leonora Raines. She always had a pleasant smile and kind word for everybody. Especially did the little girls love her and none there were who would not gladly do her bidding. She was the light and joy of the home. Her presence in the prayer and class meetings of the church was always helpful. Her lack of physical strength seemed to have been made up vastly more than could be estimated in grand endowment of the heart and head. The sunshine that she carried to others in the world can never be told. Yes, Lillias Leonora Raines has passed from life unto death but her works do follow her. The truth of these words in the case of this good sister cannot be questioned.

Lillias Leonora Raines was born in Toledo, Iowa May 19, 1857 where she spent most of her life. She was converted at about the age of twenty, uniting afterward with the M. E. Church. She received her C. L. S. C. diploma in 1889. After a three weeks illness, she died January 30, 1903. The notice of her demise came like a shock to the people for many had not learned of her illness and universal regret was expressed that so noble and pure a life had gone out. The funeral services were conducted in the M. E. Church by her pastor, Dr. E. L. Miller. A large congregation being present at the last sad rites. The choir sang the old songs that were so dear to her. The floral offerings, bright and cheery, were emblematic of the life of the departed. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery. The pallbearers from friends of the family were: Dr. H. Ovens, W. H. Withingten, J. M. R. Hanson, W. A. Dexter, G. H. Austin, and W. D. Lee."