Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, May 22, l902

FRANCIS N. AVERY was born in Nashville, Tenn., August 29, l826, and died May l7, l902. When a small boy, he moved with his parents to Warren County, Ohio, and after a few years to Jay County, Ind., where they resided on a farm until after the death of his mother. At the age of l8 years, he went to New Madison, Ohio, and learned the cabinet maker's trade. On March l5, l849, he married MISS MARTHA A. SPRINGER, who with three sons and four daughters, survive to mourn his decease.

In l854 he joined the Masonic order and continued an ardent advocate of its rights and principles till death claimed him. In the fall of l859, he moved with his family to this county and located at Leon, which has ever since been his home. In April, l886, he united with the Presbyterian Church and has been a devoted member, his Christian faith increasing with the lapse of time, was his solace and comfort during his declining years. A man of positive convictions, always on the side of right, he has been a useful and honored member of society. As a husband, attentive and affectionate, as a father, generous and indulgent to a fault, as a friend, faithful and true. His life work has been well and faithfully done and it may well be said that the world is better for his having lived. His memory endureth forever.

The funeral services were conducted by Rev. W.H. Ilsley at the residence, Monday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, after which interment occurred in Leon Cemetery under the auspices of the Masonic Order.

Copied by Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert
"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
February l0, 2003