Mary Ann Beer 1820-1900

GRIFFITH, FICKEY, BEER, MCKEE

Posted By: Volunteer - Barbara Evans
Date: 4/17/2013 at 10:14:57

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obit Book C, page 4, Keosauqua Public Library; Keosauqua, IA

Mary Ann Griffith was born in Bladensburg, Ohio, January 18, 1820. Married to Andrew Fickey in 1847. Three children were born to them, one dying in infancy. James and William still survive. Her husband died in 1849. In 1851 she was married to John Beer, who died in the service of his country at Memphis, Tennessee, during the civil war. Six children were born to them. Three died when young. The other three still survive: Samuel, Andrew and Benjamin, along with ten grandchildren. When she was about 17 years old she came with her parents from Ohio to Van Buren county, near Keosauqua, where she has ever since resided. When 15 years old she united with the M.E. church, and has ever since lived a consistant[sic] member and an exemplary Christian. She had a serene and genial spirit, which radiated sunshine all about her, and those who knew her best most prized her modest worth. She was loved and esteemed by all who knew her. During her years of affliction she was ever patient, sunny and contented, and she lived in constant readiness for the change she felt was near. The writer has frequently heard her say, “I am ready to go whenever the Master calls.” She died in the triumphs of a living faith in Christ. She took her departure on the morning of June 22, 1900, aged 80 years, 5 months and 4 days. She is not dead, she has only crossed over the river to her reward of everlasting life and happiness, where she will meet the friends who have preceded her to that bright and beautiful shore, and where she will watch for the coming of her children and those who are still on *** side of the Jordan. Three brothers and two sisters are still living, viz: Isaac, Ezekiel and Wm. Griffith, Mrs. Jeff Beer and Amy McKee. She was laid to rest on Sunday, June 24, in Center Chapel cemetery. The funeral was preached by Rev. J.B. Eyestone, her pastor, to a large audience of sympathizing friends.