Ringgold County Bulletin
Mount Ayr, Ringgold County, Iowa
February of 1942

John A. BLISS, son of Horace and Mary Ellen DAY BLISS, was born July 25, 1877, in Lincoln township, Ringgold county, Iowa, and died in Mount Ayr, December 13, 1941, after an illness of but a few hours' duration.

He was one of a family of seven children, the following of whom are living: a sister, Mrs. Edith SWANK of Oakville; George BLISS of Mount Ayr; Fred BLISS of Brady, Nebraska, R. K. BLISS of Ames, Frank BLISS of Sigourney, and Edith LEECH, a cousin who lived in the same house.

On June 15, 1916, he was married to Floy Aileen REED. Two children, Helen and Reed, were born to them. His wife and daughter survive him.

He lived, from the time of his birth, in the same farm home until he came to Mount Ayr in November in 1920 to take up the work of county agricultural agen which he continued to do until February of 1937. Since 1938 his health had not permitted a fully active life but his joy in living had never faltered.

Throughout his life he was deeply interested in the work of the church and in the advancement of agriculture which was also his vocation. In line with these interests he served as an oficer in the state and county Sunday school associations. He helped organize and promote many phases f useful agricultural activity. Among these was the Ringgold County Farm BUreau, of which he was the first president. He served in the 35th General Assembly of the Iowa House of Representatives. He was a member of the Mount Ayr Methodist Church.

His activities extended to a wide circle of people whom he regarded as friends and to whom he tried to be of service. His high courage and gallant spirit have helped others and will continue to do so.

A family friend whose father served in the same General Assembly with him has written, "My father and the other members held a very high regard for his clean life, his clear thinking and his broad views in matters of all concern. In extension work his co-workers had the same fine feeling for him and his many years spent in county agent work."

Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the Methodist church in Mount Ayr, conducted by the pastor, Rev. Thomas KELLY, assisted by the Rev. W. Harold SMITH. Music was furnished by Mrs. Miller CHRISTIANSEN at the organ.

Pallbearers were Roy LEPLEY, A. G. MOFFATT, Percer L. SPENCER, Dennis TERWILLIGER, Raymond FERREE and B. R. ROBISON.

Those in charge of flowers were Mrs. A. B. LIGGETT, Mrs. Pearl EARGER (BARGER?), Mrs. E. K. ALLYN, and Miss Mary HORNE.

Burial was in Rose Hill cemetery.

Submission by Mike Avitt, October of 2011

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