BELL, John Reid: Died 1908

BELL, JACKSON, BRIDELL, HOOTMAN, BEER, SHEPHERD, MILLER

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 1/16/2017 at 08:03:22

DEATH OF JOHN R. BELL.
Anther(err) of Van Buren County's Pioneers Has Passed Away.

Mr. John R. Bell of Keosauqua died Thursday morning after a severe illness of about five weeks, although he had been an invalid for three years or more. He was aged nearly 72 years.

Mr. Bell was born in Hancock county, Ill., and was brought to Iowa and Van Buren county in March, 1837, being one of the early settlers of the county. His father was James Bell, a noted pioneer. His brothers, Eli D. Bell, residing near this place, and George W. Bell of Milton, and Mrs. Sarah Jackson are still living and respected in their respective communities. The family was originally from Kentucky, where the other children were born.

Mr. Bell occupied the old homestead until two years ago, when on account of continued ill health he left the farm and came to Keosauqua. Mr. Bell was universally respected. He had strong individuality, and absolute integrity. He was of the highest of Christian character.

The funeral was held Monday at 1 p.m. at the M.E. church. There was a large attendance, the church being filled. Rev. W.G. Thorn conducted the services, but was assisted by Rev. H.F. Gilbert of Cantril, who testified to the counsel and assistance given him during his first pastorate, which was at Mt. Zion. Rev. Daily of Troy, formerly of Mt. Zion, also attended the funeral. Mr. Bell himself often conducted the funeral services of those who died at the county farm, which was near his own farm. The pall bearers were Messrs. J.W. Burns, J.F. Daughrity, S.D. Fellows, T.W. Haney, Mark Whitney and A.C. Barker. The burial was at the Purdom cemetery.
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The following obituary was read at the funeral:

John Reid Bell was born Nov. 14, 1836, died at his home in Keosauqua Oct. 15, 1908. His parents came to Iowa when he was five months old, in March, 1837 and settled on the farm that had been his home nearly his entire life he lived on Chequest creek and at Milton. Two years ago he moved to Keosauqua.

March 17, 1859, he was married to Sarah Bridell. To this union three children were born, Marietta, who subsequently married Mr. Guy Hootman; Harriett Francis, who married Mr. H.S. Beer, and Addie Barbara, who married Mr. Shepherd and now lives in Cooperstown, N.D. Mrs. Bell died in 1871. Jan. 27, 1872, he was married to Elmira Bell. To this union one son, John S., was born. Mrs. Elmira Bell died Sept. 16, 1876 and the second time Mr. Bell was left a widower. On Oct. 3, 1877, he was married to Mary C. Miller, who still survives to mourn her loss. To this union two children were born. One died in infancy and Carrie May is left to comfort her mother in her bereaved home. He leaves fourteen grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Mr. Bell was converted and united with the Methodist Episcopal Church when he was 16 years of age, from which time he has always been a devoted and active member. He always greatly enjoyed attending the church services and not only attended himself, but assisted many others so that his conveyance would be filled to its utmost capacity. He was always ready to take part in the service when opportunity served, which he did with fervency and intelligence. He was a consistent Christian and kind neighbor, an honorable citizen. Another one of our friends and loved ones are gone who will be greatly missed. His bereaved family have the sympathy of all who know them.

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book H, Page 66, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA