West Point Bee
West Point, Lee County, Iowa
November 27, 1924

James STEELE, a pioneer resident of West Point, passed away at his home in Clearfield,Iowa on November 3,1924. Many of the older residents will remember Mr. STEELE and his wife, who was Isabelle JARRETT.

The following obituary was taken from the Page County Democrat:

James Steele, son of James and Margaret (HAMILTON) STEELE, was born August 1, 1843 at Birmingham, Van Buren County, Iowa, died November 3, 1924 at the home of his daughter, Clearfield,Iowa, aged 81 years, 2 months, 29 days.

The father was born in Ohio and the mother at Tyronne Co., Ireland, and they were the parents of six children, Robert, James, Joseph, John, David, and Ellen.

James Jr., was the first white child born in Birmingham, where his father was postmaster. At the age of 12 years his parents settled on a farm near West Point, Lee Co., Iowa. Mr. STEELE was reared to farm life and received his education in the common school. At one time he was engaged in boating and lumbering on the Mississippi River.

September 28, 1870 he was united in marriage to Isabelle JARRETT, a teacher of Lee County, who preceded him in death March 23, 1917.

Shortly after Mr. STEELE's marriage he came to Page County settling on a farm near Clarinda, where he was a successful stock grower.

On February 15, 1898 the family came to Clearfield, Iowa where Mr. STEELE resided until his death, with the exception of one year, which he and his wife spent in Des Moines where he was a revenue collector of the Des Moines district. On May 15, 1915, he received the appointment of postmaster of Clearfield, Iowa, which office he faithfully held until June 29, 1924.

Mr. STEELE had been in frail health since the 1st of May and became very ill October 8 from gall stone attacks. He suffered intensely until his spirit was released from the mortal body just as the sun was setting Monday evening. Mr. STEELE was a true citizen,ever ready to do his part as promoter in enterprises of benefit. Many young persons came to him for advice and guidance. As long as he was physically able he enjoyed attending church,having received his early religious training from his parents who were zealous members of the United Presbyterian church.

An only daughter, Mrs. Frank [Elma Candace] BYE, is left to mourn his death. Also, one brother, Joseph STEELE.

The funeral service was from the Christian Church at 2:30 Wednesday, November 5, with business houses closed and an attendance taxing the capacity of the house. The pastor was in charge, assisted by Rev. S. Boyde JOHNSON of the U.P. Church. Interment followed in Clearfield Cemetery.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, November of 2009

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