Pike Township Family Stories
EDWARD J. STAFFORD
Nichols, Iowa Centennial Book 1884-1984, page 341Edward J. Stafford was born at Clarksville, Ohio, 5 September 1842, died at Nichols, Iowa, 5 August 1920, at the age of 77 years 11 months. He leave to mourn their loss his faithful wife, one daughter, Mrs. Ella Settlers, of Farmington, Illinois, four brothers Jack Stafford of West Liberty, Freeman Stafford of Virginia, James Stafford of What Cheer, Iowa, Thomas Stafford of Audubon Iowa, two sisters, Caroline Gilbert of Walnut Grove, Ohio and Julia Price of Victor, Iowa, also a number of grandchildren and great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. One son, R. E. Stafford, preceded him in death 27 May 1920.
He became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church 20 January 1908, under the pastorate of Rev J. C. Brown, and honored his profession with a Godly life. He was a longtime member of the board of stewards until July 26 of this year, when he declined re-election because of failing health and on this occasion the official board by unanimous vote of the quarterly conference expressed to him their appreciation of his long and faithful service, truly his death is a distinct loss to the front ranks of Isria.
The following account of his fraternal life was written several years ago. The secret society life of E. J. Stafford possesses a great deal of interest, he being the oldest Knight living in Iowa. His life as a Pythian Knight began in 1867, in Evansville, Indiana, when the order was still in its infancy. He joined the Odd Fellows six years after he became a Knight, and was a charter member of Nichols Lodge No. 644. He alsp passed successfully through the Masonic fraternity and was a member of Stainless lodge No. 445. He was also a charter member of Bridgman Rebekah lodge No. 14. He served as secretary of the Masonic lodge for a number of years, resigning about one year ago on account of failing health.
He was also a member of Shelby Norman Post G.A.R. of Muscatine, having served throughout the Civil War with honor and distinction being promoted sixth Corporal 1 October 1862, Fifth Corporal 15 October 1862, Fourth Corporal 1 February 1863, Third Corporal 13 June 1864 and Second Corporal 1 August 1864. He was mustered out 3 October 1864.
He had been a resident of Muscatine county for more than fifty years, and his life was an exemplary one of usefulness and kindness, always ready to extend a helping hand in time of need and sorrow, and to do his part in promoting the best interest of the town and community. He was a tireless worker and though he was an invalid and almost helpless for the past nine months, yet he remained at his desk as much as possible to look after his business affairs.
The funeral services were held from the M. E. church in Nichols where he had so long worshiped Sunday after 5 August, conducted by pastor Rev. J. A. Worrell. A large concourse of people were present to pay their respects to the memory of this good man. Interment was made at the Nichols cemetery. Rev. H. C. Millice, former pastor, assisted at the final services.
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Page created December 31, 2010 by Lynn McCleary