Maretta Kelsey Metcalf 1873 - 1930

METCALF

Posted By: Connie Swearingen- Volunteer (email)
Date: 8/18/2016 at 10:28:13

Mrs. Maretta Kelsey Metcalf was born in Perry County, Illinois August 1st, 1873 and died at the Methodist Hospital in Sioux City May 5th, 1930 at the age of 56 years, 9 months and 4 days. In 1897 when she was 6 years old, her parents decided to move to Iowa, and so the little girl made the long tedious trip across part of Illinois and all of Iowa in a covered wagon. Her parents decided to settle not far from here, and in the vicinity she lived till her death.

Exactly on her 18th birthday she was married to Charles Martin Metcalf at her parental home. The Rev. E.G. Keith, pastor of the Methodist Church performed the ceremony. Six children were born to them. A little girl, Elsie Leora, died May 26, 1896 when 14 months old, but the other children are still living and in this vicinity. They are, Leonard, Loren, Mrs. Celia Callghan are all married except the youngest, Austin, who made his home with his parents. Beside the husband and children, Mrs. Metcalf also leaves 9 grandchildren and 2 brothers and 3 sisters to mourn her death.

Less than a week ago she took suddenly ill and was taken to the hospital. An operation was performed, but little hope was entertained from the first. She was given all possible care, but Monday morning her soul left the suffering body and she was at rest.

Almost 41 years ago she stood before the alter and confessed a faith in God and his son Jesus Christ and joined the Methodist Church. She has been a faithful member, a dependable worker in the Sunday School and for many- many years she has been the treasurer of the W.F.M.S.