SEWARD, George W., 1851-1924

SEWARD, MITCHELL, GALLOWAY, DUSTIN, MORRISON, WOODMAN, BEDEDICT, LEEKA

Posted By: Betty Hootman-Volunteer
Date: 2/22/2013 at 13:17:01

George Seward

George W., son of Byron P. and Nancy Seward, was the youngest of a family of eight sons and daughters of these pioneers of Van Buren county.

George was born on the old Homestead near Bentonsport, Iowa, May 6th, 1851. He grew to manhood on the farm and after his marriage to Miss Emma B. Mitchell, on October 26, 1871, continued farming on his own account. This marriage was blessed with five children, Mrs. Bertha Galloway, who was called by death September 1921; Mrs. Effie Dustin of Birmingham, Iowa; Ada Morrison of Carroll, Iowa; John a. of Birch Tree, Mo., and Miss Grace at Home.

For many years Mr. Seward has been more or less afflicted and for some months helpless, but endured his suffering with great patience and fortitude. Death released him from further pain Thursday evening, July 24th, 1924, aged 73 years, 2 months and 18 days.

Beyond the home his friends extended in full measure. His cheery greetings, his kindly manner were qualities that made strong the bonds of friendship. During his last illness visitors were accorded a glad and cheering welcome. From every one of his many friends are expressions of sorrow at his passing away.

“Content to live by the side of the road,
And be a friend to man.”
was the tenor of his life.

The funeral services were conducted by Elder James McKlernan of Farmington, in the Bentonsport Presbyterian church at 2 p., July 26th, 1924. Interment was in the Bentonsport cemetery.

Besides the aforenamed children he leaves to mourn his death his beloved and faithful wife, who tenderly cared for him to the last, his sisters, Mrs. Eunice Woodman, Mrs. Mary E. Bededict and Mrs. Rachael Leeka, all of Thurman, Iowa, and brothers, John S. and Edward of Bentonsport, Iowa. Also eight grandchildren survive the passing of a devoted husband, father and brother.

Mr. Seward had high ideals and love of right living possessed earnest convictions and strong character.

He was converted about forty-five years ago and united with the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, to whose trust he held faithful to the last.

He held that home loving hearts are happiest and found his greatest enjoyment in the home resounding with children’s voices and the presence of loved ones.---Bonaparte Record.

**Hand written on the bottom next to is “24 July 1924”

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book B, page 293, Keosauqua Public Library; Keosauqua, IA