The Lamoni Chronicle
August 18, 1904

George T. WILLIS was born in Benton county, Iowa, February 17, 1874, being at the time of his death thirty years, five months and twenty-seven days old. He removed with his parents from Benton to Decatur county in 1875, having been a resident of this county ever since. He was married to Carrie SCOTT, third daughter of the publisher of the Chronicle, John SCOTT, October 13, 1897. Three children came to bless their union, one of whom, Muriel, the second, died in infancy. Deceased leaves a loving wife, two children, - Mable five years of age and Marie eighteen months, father and mother, three sisters, one brother and a host of friends to mourn his untimely death.

A large concourse of friends were in attendance at the funeral services conducted from the home, in charge of Elder John SMITH; sermon by Elder H. A. STEBBINS, Graceland Camp, M. W.A., in which order he carried one thousand dollars life insurance, marched from their hall to the residence, and then ahead of the hearse to Rosehill cemetery where the interment took place. A large number of the patrons of rural route number one were present and followed the remains to the cemetery, Mr. WILLIS having been carrier on route one until August of last year.

Thus ends the life of one of our respected citizens, in a noble effort to rescue a drowning friend. George's friends were many and his departure is deeply felt, all the more keenly because of its suddenness. His grief stricken wife and dependent babes have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community, as has the aged parents, brother and sisters.

Copied by Stacey McDowell Dietiker
June 9, 2003