SHEPHERD, Henry Clay

SHEPHERD, STULL, CHANEY

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 1/21/2017 at 18:23:51

Obituary of Henry Clay Shepherd

The youngest of a family of eight children, son of Nathan and Zarina Shepherd, first saw the light of day March 7, 1839, at St. Louis, Mo.

Emigrants from the state of Ohio, journeying by boat to the Mecca of the West (Iowa), these sturdy pioneers were forced by river conditions to make a landing at St. Louis, where in a temporary home the advent of the birth of this son was a most wonderfully joyous event, which gave to the world and our citizenship, this grand old man, whose memory we honor on this occasion, and whose death brings sadness to a multitude of friends by whom he was held in highest esteem. One month later the journey was resumed and April 4, 1839, their boat landed and cast anchor at the little village of "Columbus," two miles west of Bentonsport, overlooking the beautiful Des Moines river and nestling in the shadow of a great forest.

Near Columbus the Shepherds established a home and here they reared their families to lives of usefulness and splendid type of manhood and womanhood. The Shepherd neighborhood has eve stood for the highest and noblest type of civilization.

September 17, 1863, marked the second event of note in the life of this baby boy, then grown to young manhood, with his marriage to Hannah Stull, the now bereaved wife, their beautiful companionship of 59 years being severed by death which relieved his suffering Friday evening, May 12, 1922. The union of this couple was blessed with three children, namely John W., who preceded his father in death, June 5, 1921; George N. of Chester, Montana, and an only daughter, Mrs. Jennie Chaney, who resides near the old home, and with ten grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren mourn the passing of the most devoted father.

Mr. Shepherd united with the M.E. church at Bentonsport June 4, 1871, and his abiding faith, his christian character were exemplified in every walk of his life. Their pew was seldom vacant until the church closed its doors for service and one of the most happy moments of their declining years occurred with the re-direction of this house of worship. The Shepherd home was noted for its christian hospitality, their great generous hearts overflowing with love for all humanity, and they were always happiest when bringing happiness to others. Their lives just radiated love to their circle of friends, and they were lovingly called Uncle Henry and Aunt Hannah in merited appreciation of their kindly associations. Ah! who can measure a life like his, in its richness and goodness and sublimity of character? What a priceless heritage for the dear ones who grieve at his passing!

three years ago, becoming ill with the infirmities of years, this fond father and mother were removed just across the way, but within sight of their old home, to that of their daughter Jennie, who with the good husband Roy and grandson, lavished upon them the most tender care in the devotion beautiful to witness. Everything that loving hearts could conceive was given for their comfort. The same generous hospitality that was extended for the en- (missing)

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book H, Page 76, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA