BLACK, Mary Rachel: Died 1907

BLACK, CORSON, WITHERELL

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 8/25/2016 at 22:12:24

SUDDEN DEATH AT HOSPITAL

Mrs. Wm. Black Passed Away at Keokuk Sunday As Result of Surgical Operation.

Mrs. Mary Rachel Black, wife of Wm. Black of this place, died very suddenly at St. Joseph's hospital, Keokuk Sunday at 2:15 p.m.

Mrs. Black, accompanied by her husband, went to Keokuk Monday of last week to be treated for abdominal tumor. An operation was found necessary and on Friday afternoon it was performed by Dr. G.W. Jones of St. Louis assisted by Dr. Harris of this place.

The tumor was a large one, spreading over much tissue, and as soon as it was disclosed it was realized by the doctors there was little hope of saving the patient's life. Mrs. Black was told she couldn't live more than four hours. However, she rallied Saturday morning and was bright and quite hopeful until the end came suddenly at 2:15 Sunday afternoon.

When death came, her husband and sister, Mrs. Witherell, were at her bedside. Mrs. Black exhibited the greatest fortitude both in going upon the operating table and in the conscious presence of death two days later.

Mary Rachel Corson was born in Mt. Sterling, Iowa, May 13, 1867, and died at Keokuk, Sunday afternoon, Oct. 6, 1907, at the age of 40 years, 4 months, and 23 days. She was married to Wm. Black, at Keosauqua, July 4, 1885. She was the mother of three children: John, Hazel and Terence, who survive her, together with her husband, mother, 4 sisters and a brother.

The funeral services were held at Mrs. Black's late home and were conducted by Rev. Charles E. Perkins. A quartet from the Congregational choir sang. The burial at the Purdom cemetery.

The bereaved family have the heartfelt sympathy of the whole community.

**Handwritten: St. Line Dem. Wed. 9 Oct. 1907

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book G, Page 182, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA