DOUBLE, Zephaniah (1830-1909)

DOUBLE

Posted By: volunteer transcriber
Date: 10/12/2020 at 20:11:26

Zephaniah Double
(November 16, 1830 – March 3, 1909)

Seymour Democrat, Seymour, Iowa, Thurs., March 11th, 1909, p.1
Obituary of Zephaniah Double
Zephaniah Double was born in Butler Co., Penn., Nov. 16, 1830 and departed this life March 3, 1909, aged 78 years, months and 17 days. He was one of a family of nine children but only one brother and one sister survive him. In September 1855 he came to Iowa and soon after settled at Hibbsville where he engaged in the lumber business. Not long after, he took up a homestead of eighty acres of land in Appanoose County where he lived until 1864, when he removed to Wayne Co., locating on a farm near Seymour, which is still known by his name. Here he engaged in the Nursery business, which in time developed into a very successful enterprise. In June 1857 he was married to Miss Nancy Hibbs; nine children were born to them, three of whom are living: Mrs. Schnebley of Cherryvale, Kans., Mrs. Clemens of Ottumwa and Mrs. Webb of Seymour. When the I.O.O.F. Lodge was instilated in Seymour, he was one of the first to be initiated, and was a charter member of the Knights of Pythias. He was in good standing in both orders at the time of his death. Having been raised in one of the strongest Presbyterian states of the Union, it was very natural for him to affiliate with that denomination, and in March 1891 he united with the Presbyterian church of Seymour, and was a loyal faithful member, always ready to do his part toward advancing the Masters Kingdom. In his declining years he often expressed to his pastor his confidence in the plan of salvation, and implicit trust in the Savior of men. During his last illness, he manifested perfect peace with God and was heard in prayer committing his soul to the keeping of his Heavenly Father. As a pioneer citizen of Iowa, he was interested in the development of the state, and saw marked changes during his long life. A good neighbor, a kind friend, a loving father and an honorable Christian, he will be sadly missed from city, lodge, home and church. Funeral services were held in the Presbyterian church Thursday afternoon, conducted by the pastor, who was assisted by Rev. A. E. Clemens of the Baptist church. Rev. Clemens had been intimately acquainted with the deceased for many years and paid a loving tribute to his memory. The I.O.O.F. and K. of P. Lodges attended the funeral in a body, and at the cemetery passed the grave in single file to deposit their sprig of evergreen on the casket. Interment in Southlawn.