Smith, Wm. Elder -- 1826 - 1875

SMITH

Posted By: Janice Sowers (email)
Date: 3/8/2005 at 10:42:09

TIMES July 15, 1875 Last Page C3

(FROM THE DECORAH REPUBLICAN)

DEATH OF ELDER WM. SMITH

Elder Smith is dead, and has gone to his reward. He succumbed to the ravages of disease, after a long and trying illness, during which he endured great bodily suffering, and died on the 3d day of July, in his 49th year. He was a steadfast Christian, and had been a zealous worker in the cause of religion since 14 years of age.

Elder Smith was a native of England, and came to this country 18 years ago. Three weeks after his arrival he joined the Upper Iowa Conference. He served with his brethren up to the time of his last illness, during which, including a period of 18 years, he missed duty but two Sabbaths. Four years ago he received from the Conference the office of Presiding Elder of this district, as a mark of their appreciation of his faithful service.

Elder Smith possessed a strong intellect, and was a ready speaker of stirring ability. He leaves a widow, two sons and a daughter to mourn his death. The funeral services were held in the Methodist church, being conducted jointly by the Methodist clergy and the Masoic fraternity.

The funeral cortege attending the remains to their last resting place was one of the largest ever seen in this city. The Masonic fraternity from this and neighboring lodges assisted in this last tribute to their departed brother. Their services were very impressive. The archives containing his masonic record were read aloud, and showed that he became a Mason of Independence Lodge No. 77 in 1868. On the 4th day of February, 1872, he took the degree of Mark Master, and the Past Master degree on the 4th of March following. On the 24th day of April he had conferred on him the Royal Arch degree, and became a member of King Solomon's Chaper No. 35. On the 10th day of September, 1872, he was created a Knight of the Order of the Red Cross. On the 13th day of Septmber, 1872, he was constituted a Knight of the Valiant Order of Knight Templars, a Knight of Malta, or Order of St. Johns at Jernsalem in Brauscant commandery.