The Lamoni Chronicle
July 12, 1906

Died of old Age.

John FORD, who is well known in this county, passed peacefully away Wednesday morning at 8:30, June 20, 1906, after a long illness. He was born May 5, 1825, near Stockport, Cheshire, England, being at the time of his death 81 years, 1 months and 15 days.

He came to Canada in the year of 1857 and remained there one year, from there going to Scott county, Illinois, remaining there until the year 1872. From there he came to Missouri, settling just east of Clyde and has remained in this county with the exception of about six years. During this time he lived near Lamoni, Iowa, moving there in 1897 and returned back to Nodaway in 1903, where he ended his days.

He was married to Mary Whitworth September 1, 1860, at Winchester, Scott county, Illinois, she being a faithful companion until his death. He was baptized into the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ July 19, 1895, and remained a firm believer in that faith until death.

Although the last six months of his life he was a great sufferer, he was never heard complain or murmur, but so often expressed his desire to go and be at rest, and prayed as earnestly to go. Yet he would say not my will, Oh Lord, but Thine be done.

He leaves to mourn a devoted companion and six children living, and four having preceded their father to rest, namely: J. T. FORD of Ravenwood, Alice WINSLOW of Ravenwood, Joseph FORD and Jas. FORD, deceased; Fred FORD of Lamoni, Ia.; Mary HAWLEY of Ravenwood, Walter O. FORD and Chas. FORD, deceased; Nettle LANE of Ravenwood, and Hattie TONEY of Lamoni, Iowa, all being married and all were present at the funeral. Although our hearts are saddened we would not call him back to the world of sorrow.

Funeral services at the Saints' Chapel at 2 o'clock the day following to a house full of sorrowing friends and relatives. Sermon by E. S. FANNON of Bedison, that being his request just before his death, and his remains were laid to rest in the Sweet Home cemetery. Thus another ripened sheaf is garnered in.

Dear is the spot where father sleeps
And sweet the strains that the angels pour.
O! Why should we in anguish weep?
He's only gone before.

-Ravenwood (Mo.) Gazette

Copied by Stacey McDowell Dietiker
May 17, 2003