Source:Unknown Newspaper
OBITUARY—MRS. W.H. BEAM

Martha Alice Hiatt, daughter of David and Betsy Hiatt, was born at Sidney, Sept. 24, 1858, and passed away at her home in Anderson Wednesday, May 17 at the age of 80 years, 7 months and 23 days. She was united in marriage to Solomon Darst on July 31, 1879, to which union were born six children, Mrs. George Miller and Alva Raymond Darst of Sidney, Mrs. Charles Bickel of Omaha, Charles Darst of Asotin, Wash., Dallas Edward of Blockton and Arthur, who with the father, preceded the mother in death. On Dec. 12, 1906, she remarried, wedding W.H. Beam of Hamburg. After living on the farm for a few years, they moved to Anderson, where they have since lived.

Long years ago, Mrs. Darst united with the Cherry Grove church and was an ardent believer in the church and Christ. She took an active interest in community activities and was always ready to lend a helping hand. She leaves to mourn her passing her devoted husband, five children, 22 grandchildren, 12 great grandchldren(sic), one sister, Mrs. Charles Younts and three brothers, Milton, Elmer and John Hiatt. She lay in state at the Crawford Funeral home until the funeral, which was conducted from the Presbyterian church in Sidney Sunday afternoon, and was the first to occupy the new funeral home on South street. Rev. R.Q. Ludy had charge of the services and music was furnished by a trio from the Presbyterian church, Mrs. Maude Ettleman, Mrs. Verna Butler and Mrs. Margaret Johnson with Mrs. Elizabeth Adams at the piano. Interment was at the Mt. Zion cemetery north of Sidney. Relatives who were present from out-of-town were Mr. and Mrs. Ed Darst and son from Blockton, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bickel and their daughter, Helena, of Omaha and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Younts and daughter from Council Bluffs.

~ Submitted and transcribed by Trish Randolph

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