Iowa
Old Press
The Monticello Express
Monticello, Jones County, IA
February 17, 1927
THE DEATH OF MRS. ALFRED STARKS
Death called Mrs. Alfred W. Starks at her home in the southern
part of Monticello last Tuesday morning, February 15, at 10:45 o’clock.
A week previous to her death, February 8, she sustained two
strokes of paralysis which left her in a helpless condition, and
deprived her of the power of speech. During the last week of life
she was cared for by her sister, Mrs. Joel Starks, her daughter,
Mrs. McNurien, and Mrs. C. H. Schipman. The deceased was a
daughter of Mr. And Mrs. Norman Starks. Her maiden name was
Martha
Jane Starks. She was born in Clinton, New York, March 24, 1849,
and came west when she was a young woman. She was married to
Alfred W. Starks, May 13, 1866, at the Gillen House in Anamosa.
The marriage ceremony was performed by Rev. Eddy, and was
witnessed by Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Peck, who are at present
residents of LeMars [Plymouth Co., IA]. Mr. Starks died January
17, 1923. There were three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Starks;
Frank W. Starks, of Monticello; Mrs. Jessie Matthiessen, who died
April 21, 1897; and Mrs. Mattie McNurien of Byron, [Ogle Co.]
Illinois. Mrs. Starks was one of a member of a family of six
children, three of whom are now deceased. The survivors are Mrs.
Joel Starks and Fred Starks of Monticello, and Bert Starks of
Princeton, [Franklin Co.] Kansas. She is also survived by five
grandchildren.
Mrs. Starks became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church a
great many years ago, and was a regular attendant at church
services whenever her health permitted. The funeral services were
held this afternoon, February 17. Short services which included a
prayer were held at the family home at 1:30 o’clock, and
final services were held a the Methodist Episcopal church at 2 o’clock.
Both services were conducted by Rev. Albert E. Coe, pastor of the
Methodist church. He also conducted the services at the grave at
Oakwood cemetery.
Mrs. Starks had a host of good friends who were ever ready to
recognize her worth and beautiful character. She always stood for
what was morally right and never hesitated in lending a helping
hand when it might be needed.
[transcribed by Sandy, October 2005]