Obituaries |
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com |
[ADAMS, LISA MARIE] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 25, 1971, p. 2 Graveside Services For Adams Infant Graveside services for Lisa Marie Adams, who died February 16 in the Atlantic hospital, were held at Fairview Cemetery February 18 conducted by Rev. Norman Zimmerman. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Billy Adams of Oakland, Iowa, former Bedford residents. Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, February 8, 1912 p. 5 Charles Frederick Beson Charles F. Beson died in Clarinda, Monday, February 5, at 10:05 p. m. aged 31 years, 8 months and 5 days. He was the only son of Mr. and Mrs. William Beson and was born at their home east of Conway, June 13, 1880. When he was 11 years old the family moved to a farm northwest of Blockton. In 1904 he was united in marriage with Miss Grace Robinson. On September 21, 1911, he was removed to the hospital in Clarinda where he died. His wife, father, mother and two sisters are the only remaining relatives. The funeral services will be held in the Christian church in Bedford, Thursday, February 8, at 10:30 A. M. conducted by Rev. Mr. Purdy of Altoona, Iowa. Interment to be in Fairview cemetery. [BESON, CHARLES FREDERICK] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, February 22, 1912, p. 8 Charles Fredrick Beson Charles Fredrick Beson was born north of Conway and died at the state hospital in Clarinda, February 5, 1912, aged 31 years, 8 months and 5 days. He moved with his parents from Conway to a farm four miles north of Blockton, where he lived till the fall of 1904, when he was united in marriage with Miss Grace Robinson. Since that time he had lived near Bedford until September 21, 1911, when he removed to Clarinda for treatment, the immediate cause of his death being blood poison. Mr. Beson was naturally industrious and energetic, a kind and loving husband, one that made the home bright. He was an ideal among men having a pure and spotless character. He leaves a wife, mother, father and a host of friends to mourn his loss. The floral offerings were beautiful, his casket being covered with flowers. The funeral services were held at the Christian church in Bedford on Thursday, February 8, conducted by Rev. George Purdy of Altoona, Ia. Interment was in Fairview cemetery. [BESON, CHARLES FREDERICK] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, February 8, 1912, [p. 1] C. F. Beson Dead Chas. Frederick Beson was born June 12, 1880, on a farm 3 miles east of Conway. When he was bout eleven years old he with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Beson, moved on a farm northwest of Blockton. In 1904 he was married to Miss Grace Robinson of Bedford. On Sept. 21st he was taken to the State Hospital at Clarinda where he remained until his death, which occurred Monday, Feb. 5th, at 10:05 p. m. The remains were brought to Bedford Wednesday morning and the funeral services were held this, Thursday, morning at 10:30 at the Christian church, conducted by Rev. Purdy, of Altoona, Iowa. Interment at Fairview cemetery. He leaves to mourn his death his wife, parents, and two sisters. The bereaved relatives have the sympathy of all. Bedford Free Press, Wednesday, July 4, 1917, p. 4 Obituary---Mrs. William Beeson Mrs. William Beeson [Beson] died at her home in Gay Township Friday. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday morning, conducted by Rev. Purdy, former pastor of the Christian church at Blockton. Interment was made in the Blockton cemetery. Maria Alloway was born in Louisa County, Iowa, November 29, 1850, and died June 29, 1917, at the age of 66 years and 6 months. She was married March 1, 1874, to William Beeson [Beson]. To them were born four children, Jessie May, who died in infancy, Fred, who died February 1911 [1912], Mrs. Sadie Moon, Blockton, and Mrs. Grace Hatfield of Bedford. Her two remaining brothers are Richard of Nebraska and Thomas of near Blockton. Her home since marriage has always been in Taylor County, first near Conway then near Blockton, where she died. During Brother Van Horn's ministry she became united with the Blockton Christian church and thus remained until her death. She was a good woman, hospitable in her home and kind to others. May her memory ever be honored. [Beson, Maria Ellen Alloway] Blockton News
Thursday July 5,
1917 [p. 1]
Obituary
Maria [Ellen] Alloway was born in Louisa County, this state, November 29, 1850, and died June 29, 1917, aged 66 years and 7 months. The deceased was united in marriage to Wm. Beson March 1, 1874, and to this union four children were born, Jessie May died in infancy and Fred passed away in February 1911. The two living children are Mrs. Sadie Moon, of near Blockton, and Mrs. Grace Hatfield, of near Bedford, who with the husband and two brothers, Richard Alloway of Nebraska and Thomas Alloway of near Blockton, are left to mourn the death of mother, wife and sister. Since her marriage her home has been in Taylor County. First near Conway and later northwest of Blockton where she passed away. During Rev. H. E. Van Horn’s ministry she became a Christian and united with the Blockton Christian church and remained a member of that congregation until death. Mrs. Beson was a good woman, hospitable in her home and kind to others. May her memory ever be honored by lives who honor her God. The funeral services were held at the country residence Sunday morning at 11 o’clock, conducted by Rev. Geo. E. Purdy of Bloomfield. The services were very largely attended. Interment was made in Rose Hill cemetery.
Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 14, 1971, p. 8 Bedford Native Dies In Idaho Graveside services for Harold LeRoy Blane, 65, of Mountain Home, Idaho, a former rural Bedford resident, were held October 8 at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford with Rev. Ollie Odle in charge. Mr. Blane died October 5, 1971 as a result of a fire in his home in Mountain Home. Harold LeRoy Blane, son of Paul and Ida Gasser Blane, was born in Bedford April 29, 1906. During his youth he was a member of the East Mission Church of rural Bedford. He was a veteran of World War II and for the past several months had been living at the Veterans Home in Boise, Idaho. He is survived by a sister, Mrs. Evan Sage, of Waterloo, Iowa and by several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Cecil. Shum-Novinger Funeral Home was in charge of services. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 17, 1951, p. 2 Paul Blane, 73, Died Thursday Paul Blane, a resident of the East Mission community east of Bedford for many years, died at his home May 3, after a long illness. Funeral services were held at the Bedford Baptist church Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Fred H. Cowles and assisted by Rev. U. E. Burroughs, pastor of the Mount Ayr Baptist church. Burial was in Fairview cemetery. Paul, son of Mr. and Mrs. William F. Blane, was born in Illinois, Feb. 1, 1878, being aged 73 years, three months and two days at the time of his death. He came to the Bedford community as a young man. He was married to Ida Gasser February 15, 1905. To them three children were born: Harold, now at home; Cecil who preceded his father in death, May 22, 1943; and Mrs. Lavern Sage of Waterloo. Surviving with the wife and children are three grandchildren. Also one brother, Frank Blane of Shenandoah; two sisters, Mrs. Lydia Wood of Clearfield and Mrs. Edith Anderson of Lohrville. Mr. Blane had been a member of the Baptist church for many years. Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 6, 1928, [p. 1] Baby Loses Life In Automobile Accident Car Overturns Near the Old Lexington Cemetery Richard Allen, the little son of Mr. and Mrs. H. [erbert] Duane Crum, was instantly killed in an automobile accident, which occurred on last Saturday afternoon near the Lexington cemetery north of Bedford. Those in the unfortunate car at the time were the mother, Mrs. H. Duane Crum, Mrs. Archie McCoun and daughter Kathleen, Phyllis Salter and Alice Perdew. The party was driving near the cemetery when the wheel of the car dropped into a rut, causing it to swerve to one side and in attempting to right the car the turn was possibly made too soon and the car, with its occupants were overturned. The baby was caught under the car and was instantly killed. The other occupants of the car were considerably shaken up and bruised. The sympathy of the people of the entire community goes out to this young couple in the loss of their little fourteen-month-old son. Funeral services were held at the home on Monday afternoon by Rev. G. T. Roberts and interments was made in Fairview cemetery. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 21, 1978 Joyce Dawson, 80 Last Rites Held Here September 12 Funeral services for Joyce Dawson, 80, former Bedford resident, were held September 12 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home conducted by Carl Cummings. Joyce I Dawson died September 10 at a nursing home in Lamoni. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery. She is the daughter of Francis and Isabella Jobbins Dawson. Joyce Dawson is survived by a cousin Mrs. Harve Thompson of Clarinda. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 13, 1986 Services held for Elmer H. Eberle Funeral services for Elmer Eberle were conducted February 10, 1986 at the Shum-Novinger Funeral Home with Rev. Carl Cummings officiating. Burial was in the Fairview Cemetery at Lenox, Ia. Mr. Eberle died February 7, 1986 at Nebraska Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Ne. Elmer Henry Eberle, son of Henry Eberle and Catherine Batton Eberle, was born at Prescott, Iowa August 20, 1897. He grew to maturity in the community north of Lenox, Iowa where he attended the Prescott Public School and was a member of the Prescott Methodist Church. He was united in marriage to Alta Trost on October 19, 1921 at the Methodist parsonage in Creston, Iowa. They farmed in the Lenox area until they moved to Lenox in 1948 and to Bedford in December 1975 where they have continued to reside. To this union three children were born: Betty, Dale and Richard. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Betty who died in infancy; a brother Roy and a sister Grace; and two grandsons. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Alta of the home; two sons, Dale of Jewell, Iowa and Richard of Bedford, Iowa; a brother, Floyd Eberle of Creston, Iowa; a sister, Jemima Keith of Des Moines, Iowa; three grandsons; one great granddaughter and two great grandsons; other relatives and friends. His family and friends will remember him as a kind and considerate loved one and he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 25, 1960, [p. 1] Eberle Infant Rites At Fairview Monday John Richard Eberle, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Eberle of Bedford, was born Thursday, August 18 at St. Francis hospital, Maryville and passed away the following day. Graveside services were held in Fairview cemetery at 10 a. m., Monday, August 22 with Rev. A. V. Hart, pastor of the Hopkins Christian church officiating. Surviving with the parents are the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Eberle of Lenox, Mr. and Mrs. S. K. Mendenhall, Bedford. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, April 15, 1992 GLEN R. GAMEL Funeral services for Glen R. Gamel were conducted by Rev. Carl Cummings Saturday, 11, 2 p.m. at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home in Bedford with burial in Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Glen Raymond Gamel, son of Ray and Goldia Gamel was born on a farm in Taylor County, Iowa on May 1, 1917 and departed this life at the St. Francis Hospital in Maryville, Mo. April 8, 1992 at the age of 74 years 11 months and 7 days. In his early life his parents lived on a farm in Northwest Missouri where he attended the rural school and the Maple Grove Church. On April 6, 1940 he was united in marriage to Lillian Grubb at the Methodist Parsonage in Bedford, Iowa and their first home was on a farm north of Hopkins, Mo. Two children were born to bless their home and to share their love: Donna Lee and Galen. He continued his farming operation in Iowa and during this time he was interested in motor repair and welding. This was his greatest love and the thing he did best and enjoyed every day of it. They moved to Bedford in later years where they have continued to live. Due to ill health, Glen retired from his work in 1980. He was preceded in death by his parents. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Lillian of the home; two children, Donna Lee King and her husband David W. King of Bedford, Iowa; Galen Gamel and his wife Joyce of Grant City, Mo.; a brother Dannie and a sister, Alice Sparks; four grandchildren, Vickey Spencer and her husband Calvin; Carl King and his wife Shannon; Jenny and Mindi Gamel; great grandchildren are, Heather and Trevor Spencer and Joshua and Jordan King; nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles, other relatives and many friends. Glen will be remembered as a kind and considerate husband, father, and grandfather who loved his family and friends and he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, May 7, 2003 ANNALEA IRVIN GILBERT Annalea Irvin Gilbert was born January 8th, 1924 at Shenandoah, Iowa and passed away May 4th, 2003 at the Mt. Ayr Health Care Center in Mt. Ayr, Iowa. She was the daughter of Robert Andrew and Edna Vawter Irvin. She spent her early years at Coin, Iowa where she attended school and joined the Methodist Church. In 1939, the family moved to Taylor County and she graduated from Conway School in 1941. On June 23rd, 1956 she married Harold Gilbert and they had 2 daughters Roberta Rae and Nancy Suzanne. They lived in Peoria and Springfield Illinois, Des Moines, Carlisle and Fairfax, Iowa before retiring to Bedford, Iowa in 1991. She was preceded in her death by her parents, sister Lois Williams, brother Leonard Irvin, sister in law Mary Ann Irvin, brothers-in law Mike Williams and Glenn Myers, a nephew Mark Jacobs and grandniece Elise Eilts. She leaves her husband Harold Gilbert, daughter Roberta Gilbert and her husband Joe Barron, daughter Nancy Nelson and her husband Scott Nelson and grandchildren Ryan, Emma and Isaac Nelson; sisters Dorothy Myers, Helen Irvin, Velma Shepherd and her husband Harold, Jackie Jacobs and her husband James and brother Jim Irvin and his wife June and a number of nieces and nephews. Ann held positions with a telephone company in Bedford, Farm Bureau Life Insurance in Des Moines, Iowa a bank in Peoria, Illinois and Frontier Cooperative in Norway, Iowa. Ann's main occupation was homemaker, providing a good home life and role model for family and friends. Ann has deeded her body to the Des Moines University Osteopathic Medical Center. She has requested no funeral services are to be held. A family graveside memorial service and inurnment at Bedford Fairview cemetery will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. The family suggests memorials may be made to the Bedford Ambulance Fund. Ann always enjoyed visiting and reminiscing with adult and child alike, especially the children. This was accomplished through various stages of illness which occurred over the past 12 years. Ann was a kind and loving wife, mother and friend and will be missed by all who know and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 9, 1992 DANIEL O. HARMON Funeral services for Daniel O. Harmon were held Sunday, Dec. 29, 1991 at the First Baptist Church in Bedford with Rev. Ted DeHass officiating. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa. Daniel Oren Harmon, son of Martha and William Harmon, was born at Fairplay, Mo. on October 11, 1902 and departed this life on December 26, 1991 at Clarinda, Iowa at the age of 89 years. He lived in Fairplay, Mo. and grew to maturity in Iowa. On January 27, 1927 he was united in marriage to Hazel M. Bugg at Fairplay, Mo. To this union five children were born: Helen, Marvin (deceased), Barbara, Connard and Judy. He was engaged in farming. He was preceded in death by Hazel, his wife, his son Marvin, seven brothers and sisters and his parents. Left to cherish his memory are his four children: Helen Tate, Barbara Taylor, Connard O. Harmon and Judy Alger; three sisters, Eva Davis, Ada Manuel and Nora Greathouse; four grandchildren, Michael Dressor, Jacquline Larson, Steven Taylor, Nicholas Tate and five great grandchildren. He was a member of the Baptist Church of Bedford, Iowa. There were two outstanding characteristics about Dan. First, he always paid his bills. He did not like to make a debt but if he did, he made sure it was paid. The only debt was his farm and one time when credit buying started to get popular, Dan and his wife bought a television set on time for the purpose of establishing credit. But, having done this, they didn't think much of buying on credit. Dan paid his bills. And, secondly, if a neighboring farmer needed help because of being hurt or sick or in the hospital, Dan was right there with his team of horses to help harvest or to fix a fence. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 20, 1978 Hazel Harmon, 67 Final Rites Were Held July 17 Funeral services for Mrs. Dan (Hazel Margaret) Harmon, 67, of Bedford were held July 17 in the First Baptist Church in Bedford with Rev. Carter Smith officiating. Mrs. Harmon died July 15, 1978 in Rosary Hospital in Corning, Ia. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Hazel Margaret Harmon, daughter of Clarence and Mattie Bugg, was born at Paintersville, Missouri on July 29, 1910. She lived in southwest Missouri where she grew to maturity and attended the public school and the Baptist Church. On January 27, 1927 she was united in marriage to Dan Harmon at Fairplay, Missouri. They were able to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in January of 1977. They had lived in Westboro, Mo.; Villisca, Iowa, before moving to Bedford in 1948. To this union five children were born, Helen Dresser Tate, Marvin (deceased), Barbara Taylor, Connard Harmon and Judy Ann Alger. She was a homemaker and enjoyed caring for her home until illness came about 15 months ago. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers; one sister; and a son Marvin who died in infancy. Left to cherish her memory are: her husband, Dan; three daughters, Helen Tate and her husband. Brooks, of Fort Collins, Colorado; Barbara Taylor and her husband, Charles, of Unionville, Mo.; and Judy Ann Alger and her husband, Allen, of El Reno, Oklahoma; one son, Connard Harmon, and his wife, Sharon, of Malvern, Pa.; four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Bedford where she had been active in the BWS until the last year. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her as she was a kind and considerate person. Bedford Times-Republican, Monday, September 22, 1924, [p. 1] Albert Jobbins Dead In Colorado Albert Jobbins, who accompanied by his wife left for points in the west for a visit last Thursday noon, died suddenly yesterday morning in Colorado. No particulars are available as to his death. The body will be brought back here for burial. Mr. Jobbins was one of the older residents of the community and had many friends who will mourn his sudden death. He seemed to be in very good health at the time he left Bedford. [JOBBINS, ALBERT] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 24, 1924, p. 3 Obituary of the Late Albert Jobbins Albert Jobbins, son of Chas. and Mira Jobbins, was born in Pennsylvania, June 21, 1842, died at the Sterling, Colorado, hospital last Saturday evening. He moved with his grandparents to Springvale, Wis., at the age of 8 years. Mr. Jobbins enlisted in Company E., 1st Wisconsin Heavy Artillery, of the Union Army, in the fall of 1864 and was honorably discharged at the close of the war on Sept. 8, 1866. He was married to Wealthy Jane Jennings at Rio, Wis., and moved to Bedford in 1868. He was a very prominent citizen in school and church work in the early settlement of Taylor County. Mr. and Mrs. Jobbins moved to Keota, Colo., in 1908. Mrs. Jobbins died Nov. 17, 1909. To this union seven children were born: Mrs. Belle Dawson, Bedford, Ia.; Mrs. Melissa Bowles, Portland, Ore.; Mrs. Dora Kelso, New Market, Ia.; Mrs. Agnes Scott, Pickering, Mo.; Mrs. Anna Oline, Carpenter, Wyo.; Mrs. Jessie Bowles, Kersey, Colo.; Mrs. May Trumbo, Princeton, Kan. All the children living except Mrs. Dawson who died in 1922. There are 26 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, two brothers, Chas. Jobbins of Keota, Colo., and James Jobbins of Rio, Wis. Three sisters who have preceded him in death. Jan. 11 [Dec. 11], 1913, Mr. Jobbins was married to Lea Littlefield at Foster, Mo., who survives him and who ministered to him in his last years. Mr. Jobbins united with the M. E. church 40 years ago and has been a consistent Christian worker. He was a charter member of the High Prairie Methodist church, superintendent of the Sunday school for many years, and still attended when convenient for him to do so. Funeral services were conducted at the M. E. church in Bedford, Ia., Sept. 24, at 2:30, conducted by the pastor of High Prairie church, Rev. F. H. Perkins. Interment in Bedford cemetery [Bedford Fairview]. [JOBBINS, ALBERT] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 25, 1924, [p. 1] Albert Jobbins Buried Here Wed. Died September 27th in Hospital at Sterling, Colo., Was Visiting Albert Jobbins, veteran of the Civil War, and one of the old residents of Bedford and Taylor County, died in a hospital at Sterling, Colo., last Saturday, September 27th, from pneumonia. He and Mrs. Jobbins had left their home here a few days ago for a trip through the west to visit his children in their respective homes. At Sterling, he took sick with pneumonia and died in a short time at the hospital. His body was brought back to Bedford for burial and the services were held Wednesday afternoon, September 24th at the Methodist church, Rev. F. H. Perkins, pastor of the High Prairie church, preaching the funeral sermon. Many of Mr. Jobbins' comrades in the G. A. R. post attended the services. Interment was in the Bedford cemetery [Bedford Fairview]. [MCMILLIN, FRANK RANKIN "DOC"] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 29, 1956, [p. 1] McMillin Killed In Auto Crash 12 Miles south of Maryville, Sunday Frank "Doc" McMillin, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Elza McMillin, Bedford, died in the St. Francis hospital, Maryville, Sunday afternoon, about three hours after being injured in an automobile and truck accident on highway No. 71, about 12 miles south of Maryville. Born and raised in Bedford, "Doc" learned the printer's trade in the Times-Press shop, accepting employment in Gallatin, Mo., last September. Rosary was read at the Wetmore Funeral Home at 7:30 p. m. Tuesday by the Rev. Father A. S. Riesz. Funeral services including Holy Mass were held Wednesday morning at 9:30 in the Catholic Church in Bedford, in charge of Rev. Father Donald Miller of Hamilton, Mo. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery. An account of the accident, which appeared in the Maryville Daily Forum, is reprinted below: Nodaway County's fourth traffic fatality in 17 days and the fifth for 1956 was recorded at 5:45 Sunday when Frank R. McMillin, 21, Gallatin, died at the St. Francis hospital from injuries received in a collision of a car and truck three hours earlier. Also injured and in the hospital are Miss Barbara Anderson, 16, daughter of Sheriff and Mrs. Earl Anderson; Miss Grace E. Campbell, 17, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carl N. Campbell, 215 W. Fifth St.; and Mrs. Bina Force McMillin, Gallatin, wife of the dead man. The tragedy occurred about 2:40 o'clock Sunday afternoon on Highway 71, about 12 miles south of Maryville, just north of the Barnard road. WAS TRYING TO PASS Miss Campbell, reportedly driving the passenger car, which is owned by Elza A. McMillin, Bedford, the father of the traffic victim, swung out of a southbound lane to pass a car driven by Wilbur Berryman, Maryville. Berryman, accompanied by his wife, had slowed to turn east onto the Barnard road, with his signal lights reportedly flashing the turn. He said he noticed the car coming up at a "good speed" and that he pulled to the right shoulder of the highway. Apparently the passenger car, a 1949 Chevrolet 5-passenger coupe, went out of control as Miss Campbell tried to pass and escape an oncoming truck. She went almost directly east across the road to the east side of the highway. Edgar E. Reynolds, 28, Red Oak, Ia., was driving a 1955 tractor-semi trailer truck belonging to Russell Halvin, Red Oak, Ia., returning north from the St. Joseph market empty He said, "They pulled out to pass him (Berryman) and then lost control of it. I tried to take the ditch to miss the car. We hit on the east edge of the pavement." The truck traveling about 45-50 miles per hour, jammed broadside in the death car. The passenger car went down into a 20-foot cut and the truck-trailer overturned and also went down into the deep ditch. The collision occurred 32 steps north of the Barnard road-Highway 71 intersection. The passenger car was thrown back 28 feet from the point of impact before going into the ditch. TWO THROWN FROM CAR Two were reportedly thrown from the passenger car. McMillen was riding at the side of the driver at the point of impact. Miss Anderson was riding on the right side in the rear seat of the car, along with the victim's wife. McMillin reportedly died from severe head injuries. Miss Campbell sustained a fractured pelvis and a possible skull fracture. Miss Anderson is suffering from chest bruises. Miss Anderson and Miss Campbell are juniors at Maryville high school, and Mrs. McMillin was a junior there also, prior to her marriage in December 1955. The three are close companions of many years. McMillin was employed as a printer at Gallatin. WAS BEDFORD NATIVE Mr. McMillin was born Aug. 31, 1934, at Bedford, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Elza McMillin. He was married Dec. 31, 1955, to Miss Bina Force, Maryville. He was a graduate of the Bedford High School and had been employed by the Gallatin Publishing Company. He was a member of the Catholic Church. Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Bina McMillin, who is a patient at St. Francis hospital; his parents, and a brother, Francis, and sister, Mrs. Howard McCollough, all living at Bedford. ---Maryville Daily Forum Bedford Times-Republican, Tuesday, October 31, 1905, p. 7 Obituary Abner Washington Majors [Majers] was born in Beardstown, Ill., Feb. 6, 1837; came to Page County, Iowa, when but 6 years old. His first wife was Menerva [Minerva] Fourgeson [Ferguson] To this union were born 4 children. Sometime after the death of his first wife he was again married to Rosena [Rosanna] Spencer. To this union were born seven children. Mr. Majors [Majers] was down town Thursday forenoon and soon after his return home was stricken with paralysis and passed away about 6 o'clock in the evening. He was converted and entered the Baptist church last winter of which he has since been a faithful member. His wife, six children, Luther M. Majors [Majers] of Shambaugh, Amanda of Bedford, Mrs. Ada Moore of Creston, Mrs. Ida Brown of Creston, Miss May of Horton, Kans., and Chas., who live at home and two brothers survive him. The deceased was apparently in his usual good health Thursday and in the forenoon was on the street. A little after noon he was stricken with paralysis from which he never rallied, death coming at 6 in the evening. The funeral was held Saturday at 10 a. m. at the Baptist church conducted by Rev. Jones. Interment at Fairview cemetery. [MAJERS, ABNER WASHINGTON] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, November 2, 1905 GONE TO HIS REWARD Abner Washington Majers was born in Beards [Cass] County, Illinois, February 6, 1837 and died at his home in Bedford, Iowa, October 26, 1905, aged 67 years, 8 months and 20 days. Mr. Majers was well known in Bedford and vicinity, having lived here about fifteen years, and for several years conducted a restaurant and confectionery establishment on Court street. But on account of failing health he retired from business about three years ago. On last Thursday at about 12 o'clock noon, he was stricken with paralysis, and although all was done for him that medical science could accomplish, he never revived, and at 6 o'clock in the evening, his spirit passed into the hands of Him who gave it. Deceased came to Iowa when but a small boy, first settling near Clarinda. He was married to Miss Rosanna Spencer in April, 1866 [1867], and to their union was born seven children, two of which, Elizabeth and Carl, preceded him to the better land. The remaining children are Amanda, May and Charles Majers, Mrs. Ada Moore and Mrs. Ida Brown. Mr. Majers had one child from a former wife, Luther Majers, who resides at Shambaugh. Deceased was a member of the Baptist church at this place, and ever since his conversion has lived a devoted Christian life. He had the regard and confidence of all who knew him, and his presence will be greatly missed from our streets and the church. Funeral services were held at the Baptist church conducted by Rev. A. I. Jones, after which the body was laid to rest in Fairview cemetery. Those who attended the funeral from a distance were Rod Majers, a brother, from Horton, Kansas; Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Nelson of Clarinda; Mr. and Mrs. Ben Dow, of Clarinda; Mrs. N. J. Davidson of Clarinda; Mrs. Clara Davidson of Shambaugh; Mrs. Ed Davidson of Clarinda; Mrs. Sam Linbaugh, of Shambaugh; Mrs. Marion Ulmer and Misses Sarah and Martha Majers, of Maryville; Bertha Havener of Hopkins; Miller Linbaugh of Clearmont. The Free Press joins the many friends of the family and relatives in extending heartfelt sympathy. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 4, 1982, p. 4 Gerald Dean Millikan Last Rites Were Held in Bedford Funeral services for Gerald Dean Millikan, 57, of Bedford, held October 30 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, were officiated by Pastor Peter Dible. Mr. Millikan died October 27, 1982 in Rosary Hospital in Creston, Ia. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Gerald Dean Millikan, son of Hattie Moore and John Millikan, was born in Malvern, Iowa May 10, 1925. He grew to maturity in Malvern and Rockport, Mo. where he attended the public school and Baptist and Lutheran Churches. He was united in marriage to Dorothy Fields September 10, in Raton, New Mexico. They lived in the vicinity of Colorado Springs, Colo., Fairfield, Ia. and in Bedford. Mr. Millikan has been a member of several denominations but is not now affiliated. To this union five children were born: Mark, Sandra, Donna, Corinne and Bryce; also a stepson, Kenneth Stevens. Mr. Millikan was employed by the City of Bedford. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Don and Willard. Left with fond memories are his wife, Dorothy; sons: Mark Andrew, Bryce Preston and Kenneth LaVern Stevens; daughters: Sandra Cantu, Donna Millikan and Corinne Lincoln; grandchildren; Jon Kristen Cantu, Stacey Maree Millikan, Jennifer Marie Lincoln, Eric Brandon Cantu, Vin Stevens; daughter-in-law, Lee Ann Millikan; son-in-law Juan Cantu; sister, Fern Hickey; brother, John R. Millikan; sister-in-law, Freida Millikan. He was a kind and considerate husband and father and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. [MOORE, ROSANNA SPENCER MAJERS] Bedford Times Press, Bedford, Iowa, Dec 7, 1933 Mrs. Moore, whose name before her marriage was Rosanna Spencer, was born in Stockton, Mo., August 18, 1845 [1849]. She was married to A. [bner] W. [ashington] Majers in 1866. To them were born seven children, five daughters and two sons. Two daughters and a son preceded the mother in death. Mr. Majers died Oct. 24, 1905. She was later married to Elias G. [ilbert] Moore of Bedford, who died Feb. 2, 1918. She moved to Oregon in 1924, where she has made her home since. Surviving relatives are her children, Amanda E. Robbins and Mae Buntin of Salem, Ore., Ada Moore of Creston, Charles E. Majers of Galliway [Callaway], Neb., and a step grandson, Luther Majers of Shambaugh. Mrs. Moore had been a member of the Baptist church for 35 years. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 26, 1983, p. 12 Last Rites Held May 15 For Donald Morelock, 39 Funeral services for Donald Fay Morelock, 39, of Gravity, held May 15 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, were conducted by Pastor Mel Smith. Mr. Morelock died May 12, 1983 in his Gravity home. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Donald Fay Morelock, son of Georgia Proffit and Alix Morelock, Jr., was born at St. Joseph, Mo., on November 17, 1943. Don lived in the St. Joseph area where he attended school and grew to manhood. On December 10, 1972 he was united in marriage to Sue Reed at Maryville, Mo. they lived in Maryville for two years then moved to Gravity, Iowa. To this union a son, Don, was born. Don was disabled but had been engaged in construction work prior to his disability. He was still a member of the Armed Forces of America. He was preceded in death by his father, Alix Morelock, Jr., his mother, Georgia M. Proffit, and stepfather, Emmet R. Proffit. Left to cherish his memory are: his wife, Sue; a son, Don; a stepdaughter, Sheila; a stepson, Harold; all of Gravity; four sisters: Carole Miller, Judy Bennett, Marsha Mau, and Becky Kreisle; three brothers: Ronald, Kenneth and Jerry Morelock; two stepbrothers: Steve and Michael Proffit; many nieces; great nephews; and many friends. He was a kind and considerate husband, father and friend and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 11, 1968, [p. 1] Albert Norris Rites Held Here January 9 Funeral services for Albert Norris, 68, of Bedford were held Tues., Jan. 9 at the east Shum-Novinger funeral Home conducted by Rev. Ivo Randels. Mr. Norris died January 6 at the Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Albert Norris, son of Clinton Allen Norris and Francis [Frances] Marion Reeves, was born at Bedford, Ia., June 20, 1899. He has lived all his life in and around Bedford and attended the Bedford schools. He engaged in trucking most of his life. When he was 16 years of age he joined the Methodist Church at Platteville, Ia. He was united in marriage to Mrs. Ella Manley, July 21, 1919 and to this union five children were born, four sons and one daughter. They are: Gerald, Frank and George of Bedford, Mrs. Wandalene Martin of Bedford, and Arlo Norris of Des Moines, Ia. He is survived by his wife Ella, the above named children, two stepsons, Orville Lee Manley of Siam, Ia., and Grover Wilbur Manley of Kansas City, Mo.; two sisters, Mrs. Rilda Miller of Bedford, and Mrs. Ralph Hamm of Portis, Kansas; 17 grandchildren; three step grandchildren; two great grandchildren; three nephews and other relatives and a host of friends. He was a kind and loving husband and father. He was always ready to extend a helping hand to a neighbor or friend even though it cost him time and money. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 4, 1989 GEORGE A. NORRIS Funeral services for George A. Norris were held Friday, Dec. 30, 1988 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home with Rev. Carl Cummings and Rev. Ted DeHass officiating. Burial was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa. George Aiton Norris, the third son born to Albert Norris and Sarah Ella Abbott Norris on April 11, 1924 at Bedford's Greenlee Hill and he departed this life December 26, 1988 at his home in Bedford, Iowa at he age of 64 years, eight months and 15 days. He grew to maturity in the Bedford area where he attended he Bedford School System. He was an ambulance driver for the Bedford CCC Camp that was located in Bibbins Park. He left Bedford for the first time in March 1943 to serve his country in the United States Army. He saw service in Italy, Greece, Germany and Spain. His duties included that of a "Tank Driver" for the Third Armored Division until August of 1945 when he received a Purple Heart and an Honorable Discharge. Returning to Bedford he was an active member of the American Legion Post No. 164 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He helped his family in the trucking business of livestock and then worked as a freight truck driver for Fiddle Miller of Clarinda, Iowa. In the early 1950's he was employed as a police officer tor Page County, Iowa. While being employed in the Clarinda area he met Lena May Lininger and they were married July 16, 1955. They made their home in Clarinda, Iowa for three years before moving to Bedford where they have continued to reside. George was employed by the City of Bedford for 13 years. His work included that of Street Commissioner and assisting at the Water Treatment Plant and spraying chemicals. In 1966 George was employed by the Iowa Department of Transportation, working for the state for 13 years. As a family man he became active and a member of the First Baptist Church. Later he enjoyed taking care of Bibbins City Park and cutting wood, up until his retirement in December 1979. Following retirement his interests included fishing, traveling and coffee with friends. To this marriage of 33 years he was blessed with three children: Kim Diane Sanders, Kenneth Dwayne Norris, both residing in Taylor County and Katrina Dawn Martin who lives in Coffeyville, Ks. He was the grandfather of Amber, Vanessa, Lacey and Kelly; father-in-law of Randy Sanders, Krystal Johnson Norris and Lyle Martin. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Wandalene Traster and a half brother Orville Manley. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of the home, children, grandchildren, three brothers, Frank, Gerald and Arlo Norris and a half brother Wilbur Manley with their families and many life time friends. [NORRIS, SARAH ELLA ABBOTT MANLEY] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, November 13, 1980, p. 4 Sarah Norris, 82, Last Rites Were Held November 8 Funeral services for Mrs. Albert (Sarah Ella) Norris, 82, of Bedford, held November 8 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here were conducted by Rev. James Nelson. Mrs. Norris died November 5, 1980 in Bethesda Care Center in Clarinda. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Sarah Ella Norris, daughter of George Abbott and Sarah Ann Bailey, was born near Hopkins, Missouri on April 22, 1898. She lived in the Siam Community and grew to maturity in Taylor County where she attended the country school. In 1913 she was united in marriage to Walter S. Manley, at the Siam church. To this union two children were born: Orville Lee Manley of Siam and Grover Wilbur Manley of Kansas City, Missouri. In 1919 she was married to Albert Norris. To this union five children were born: Gerald, Frank, George and Wandalene, all of Bedford, and Arlo of San Ramon, California. She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands and two brothers. Left to cherish her memory are her children; sisters; Stella Dollinger and Pearl Pierce, both of Galesburg, Illinois; 21 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; cousins; other relatives; and a host of friends. She was a kind and considerate mother, grandmother and will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 5, 1959, [p. 1] Claude Rankin Succumbed Monday Claude Rankin, 51, farmer living east of Bedford, died Monday afternoon, November 2 at St. Francis hospital, Maryville, where he had been taken by ambulance ony a few minutes before his death. He is survived by his wife and six children. Also by his mother, Mrs. F. O. Rankin of Bedford; one sister, Mrs. Elza McMillin of Bedford; one brother, Dale Rankin of Omaha. Funeral services are being held Thursday afternoon, November 5 at the Shum-Novinger Funeral Service, 708 State Street, at two o'clock. Rev. Colvin Caughey is the officiating clergyman. Burial in Fairview cemetery. [RANKIN, CLAUDE ORVILLE] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 12, 1959, p. 4 Claude Rankin Rites Held Here Thursday Funeral services for Claude Rankin, who died Monday, November 2 after a short illness, were held at the Shum-Novinger Funeral Home Thursday afternoon, November 5. Rev. Colvin Caughey of the Bedford Baptist Church officiated. Burial was in Fairview cemetery. Claude Orville Rankin, son of Frank and Grace Rankin, was born June 28, 1908 at Peru, Iowa, and passed away at the age of 51 years, four months, four days. The family moved to Gravity in 1924. On April 9, 1932 he was married to Marjorie Herriott and to them were born four sons and two daughters. They are Garry Rankin of Bedford, Jerry Rankin of Des Moines, Frank Rankin of Lenox, Jo Ann, Danny and Donna of Bedford. Surviving with the wife and children are his mother, Mrs. F. O. Rankin of Bedford; a brother, Dale Rankin of Omaha; a sister, Mrs. Phyllis McMillin of Bedford; a half-brother, Garry Rankin of Truro, Iowa; a half-sister, Mrs. Sam Nicoson of Rolfe, Iowa. He was a member of the Bedford Methodist Church. [RANKIN, JANET CATHLEEN PAXSON] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, April 26, 1989 Services for Janet Cathleen Paxson Rankin, 20, and infant son Dustin Michael Rankin, Omaha, Neb. were held April 18 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home officiated by Rev. Ted DeHass and Vennon Spinner. Burial was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa. Janet and Dustin died April 15, 1989 at Omaha, Neb. Janet Cathleen Paxson Rankin, daughter of Thomas Edward Paxson and Judith Ann Greimann Paxson was born at Creston, Iowa August 27, 1968. She and her family lived in Creston until she was 13. Then they moved to Bedford where she finished junior high school and attended Bedford Community High School. After high school she attended Northwest Missouri State University for one year. On October 27, 1988 she was united in marriage to Garry Dean Rankin, Jr. at Omaha, Neb. and they lived there until her death. Janet loved children and she was anxiously awaiting the arrival of their son, Dustin Michael who passed away with his mother. She was employed by T.J.'s Jigger and the Junction Cafe in Bedford during her school years. She also had numerous babysitting jobs. In Omaha she worked for the Stockade Restaurant for one year. Left to cherish her memory are her parents, Tom and Judy Paxson, sister, Cheriann Paxson, husband, Garry Rankin, grandparents, Roe and Donna Greimann and Toia Paxson, aunts, uncles and countless friends and relatives. She was affiliated with the non-denominational Christian Church. Janet never knew a stranger and always had a smile for everyone. [RANKIN, MARJORIE MARIE HERRIOTT] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, September 26, 1990 MARJORIE MARIE RANKIN Funeral services for Marjorie Marie Rankin, Bedford, were held September 20, 1990 at the Bedford Baptist Church with Rev. Ted DeHass and Rev. Carl Cummings officiating. Rebekah services were by Golden Rule Rebekah Lodge No. 134. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery. Marjorie Marie Herriott Rankin, daughter of Francis Rutherford Herriott and Lola May Glassgow Herriott was born on the Herriott farm northwest of Bedford, Iowa on September 30, 1910 and departed this life September 16, 1990 at her home at Northside Apartments in Bedford, Iowa at the age of 79 years, 11 months and 16 days. She lived all her life in the Bedford area where she attended the Bedford Public School and was graduated as salutatorian of the class of 1928. On April 9, 1932 she was united in marriage to Claude Orville Rankin at Sheridan, Mo. They lived and farmed in the Bedford area milking up to 40 cows. In the 1930's they delivered bottled milk by horse and buggy to Bedford restaurants and homes, also 10-gallon cans of milk to the Cobb Ice Cream Company. Born to bless their home and to share their love were twin boys, Garry and Gerry, Frank, Jo Ann, Danny and Donna. Marjorie always took pride in having children in the Bedford School system for 35 years. Her husband Claude passed away November 2, 1959 and she continued to live on the farm until 1962 when she moved to Bedford where she has continued to reside. Her son, Garry still lives on and operates the family farm. She was employed in childcare and later as school cook in the Bedford Schools until her retirement in 1976. A special time in her life was when she was a member of the Bedford Bowling League. She was a member of and enjoyed the activities of the Baptist Church and the Women's Circle. She was also a member of the Rebekah Lodge No. 134 of Bedford, Iowa. Marjorie enjoyed several scenic trips and extended visits with her children and their families. In the past few years much of her time was spent with her friends at the Congregate Meals, card clubs and Northside Apartments. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Claude; a sister Earlyne, brothers George and Mack; niece Karen; grandson Tom, daughter-in-law Norma; granddaughter-in-law Janet and great grandson Dustin. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Garry of Bedford; Gerry and wife Marie of Earlham, Iowa; Frank and wife Vonda of Ames; Jo Ann of Milan, Mo.; Danny and wife Sandy of Poway, Calif.; and Donna of Overland Park, Kan.; 16 grandchildren and three great grandchildren; other relatives and friends. Marge, as she was known, was a hard working, determined kindhearted person with a great sense of humor. She was a very understanding and caring mother and she was very proud of her children and grandchildren. Her strength and honesty will continue to live on. [RANKIN, THOMAS WILLIAM "TOM"] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, November 4, 1987 TOM RANKIN Funeral services were held for Tom Rankin, 20, on Tuesday, October 27, 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Bedford, Ia. with Rev. Ted DeHass as the minister. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Tom died October 23, 1987 at Omaha, Ne. Thomas William Rankin, son of Garry D. Rankin and Norma Louise Cox Rankin, was born at Rosary Hospital in Corning, Ia. on April 25, 1967. He lived with his parents on a farm east of Bedford where he attended the Bedford public school and graduated with the class of 1986. After graduation he attended the Vo-Tech school in Maryville, Mo. He was preceded in death by his mother Norma. Left to cherish his memory are his father, Garry; brother, Garry Dean; sister, Sharry Sheley and husband, Rick; sisters, Julie Ann and Lisa Louise; grandparents, Marjorie Rankin, Ober and Rachel Cox. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Bedford. Tom had a great love for sports and while he couldn't actively participate, he involved himself as much as possible by being a manager for the football and wrestling teams. Tom had an enormous love for music and spent many hours listening to tapes and the radio. His other interests included working on his Firebird, caring for animals, and working around the farm. Tom had a quiet, caring little smile for everyone. [SMITH, GRACE SWEARINGEN RANKIN] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 7, 1985 Grace Rankin Smith, 101, services held Funeral services for Grace Rankin Smith, 101, longtime resident of Bedford were held at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home on March 1 and were conducted by Rev. Carl Cummings. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery. She had been a resident of Bedford Manor since June 1972. Mrs. Smith died Feb. 25, 1985 at Rosary Hospital in Corning. Grace Rankin Smith was born March 30, 1883 to Daniel Swearingen and Nancy Fine Swearingen on a farm near Truro, Iowa in Madison County. She grew to maturity in the area where she was born where she attended the public school and the Christian Church. Later she joined the United Methodist Church where she has been a member for well over 60 years. In September 1906 she was united in marriage to Frank O. [liver] Rankin at Des Moines, Iowa and they lived in Truro until 1920 when they moved to Gravity, Iowa to operate a general store. A few years later they moved to Bedford where they owned and operated the Rankin Shoe Store. Mr. Rankin passed away in 1954 after they were privileged to share 48 years together. Three children were born to this union: two sons, Dale and Claude and a daughter Phyllis. She also shared a mother's love with two stepchildren, Garry and Geraldine. On February 11, 1962 she was united in marriage to Willard H. Smith of Bedford and they enjoyed their home together until his death in April 1963. She enjoyed Willard's children and their families. Also preceding her in death were her two sons, Dale and Claude; a stepson Garry Rankin and a grandson, Frank "Doc" McMillan. Left to cherish her memory are her daughter Phyllis McMillan of Bedford; a step daughter Geraldine Nicoson of Iowa City, Iowa and two daughters-in-law, Marjorie Rankin of Bedford and Blanche Rankin of Omaha, Nebraska. She was proud of her family of five living generations, which included twelve grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren and nine great great grandchildren and she enjoyed the many visits with all of her family and friends. She had been a resident of Bedford Manor since June of 1972 and her family and friends will remember her with many loving and precious memories. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 6, 1969, [p. 1] Melissa Smith, 3, Dies Tuesday Melissa Smith, three-year-old daughter of Sp. 4 and Mrs. Donald Smith, died Tuesday at St. Francis Hospital in Maryville. Because Sp. 4 Smith is on duty in Vietnam, funeral arrangements are pending until he is contacted. Mrs. Smith resides in Bedford. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 14, 1964, p. 5 Willard Smith Services Held Here Monday Funeral services for Willard Hayes Smith, lifelong Taylor County resident, were held May 11 at the Bedford Methodist Church with Rev. J. Milton Kinney officiating. Mr. Smith died at his home in Bedford May 6, 1964, at the age of 82 years and 21 days. Interment was at Hopkins Cemetery, Hopkins, Mo. The following obituary was included in the services: Willard Hayes Smith, son of Sylvania P. [rice] and Ann D. [ell Ball] Smith, was born on a farm south of Bedford, Iowa in the Hazel Dell community, on April 15, 1882. He attended the Hazel Dell School in Ross Township and grew to manhood in this community. On Dec. 25, 1904, he was united in marriage to Julia M. [ary] Townsend, and they moved to their farm where they continued to live for the next 40 some years until they moved to Bedford in 1947. To them were born ten children, four sons and six daughters. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; one son, Donald who died in infancy; two daughters, Ruby Esther, and Lucile Mary who passed away at the age of ten years; and his wife, Julia who passed away June 23, 1958. He was united in marriage to Grace Rankin in February 1963. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Grace and children: Helen Spencer of Bedford, Kirk Smith of Port Byron, New York, Alice Tibbetts of Pickering, Mo., Carl Smith of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Galen Smith of Montpelier, Idaho, Olive Wyckoff of Des Moines and Iva Ruth Sanders of Bedford; 32 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Verna Dorr of Hopkins, Mo., and Mrs. Ruth Whitlow of Lakeland, Florida; a stepdaughter, Phyllis McMillin of Bedford and a stepson, Dale Rankin of Omaha. He united with the Hopkins Methodist Church in 1912 and transferred his membership to the Bedford Methodist Church when he moved here to live. His entire lifetime had been lived in Taylor County Iowa where he engaged in farming. Willard was a quiet and sincere person. His thoughts were of others first. He was a kind and loving husband, father, friend and neighbor and will be missed by all who knew him. [SPENCER, HELEN ELIZABETH SMITH] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, May 3, 2000 HELEN SPENCER Funeral services for Helen Spencer, age 92 of Bedford, who died Wednesday, April 26, 2000 at the Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center were held Saturday, April 29, 2000 at "10:30, a.m. at Ritchie Funeral Home� in Bedford with Pastor Jamie Mogler officiating. Interment was held in the Hopkins Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to the Children's Make A Wish Foundation. Helen Elizabeth Spencer was born March 6, 1908 just north of the state line in Taylor County, Iowa, the daughter of Willard H. [ayes] Smith and Julia M. [ary] Townsend Smith. Helen grew up living on the north side of the Iowa/Missouri state line. She attended rural schools. On September 26, 1926 she was united in marriage to John Howard Spencer at the Methodist Parsonage in Bedford. To this union eight children were born. Helen and Howard moved to Colorado after their marriage. After a short time they returned to Taylor County where she lived on a farm, raising her family until 1945 when she moved to Bedford. Howard died in 1948. Helen served as treasurer for the Order of Eastern Star for many years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church and the Baptist Women's Ministry where she was very active in their fellowship. Helen always put others' needs before her own. She enjoyed her family most of all and was known to be very creative when it came to having a reason for the family to get together for dinner and socializing. Birthdays were also important to Helen, and all family birthdays, including her own, needed to be celebrated! She felt if she could have lived to be 100 years old would have been a real milestone. Left to cherish Helen's memory are her five children, Rose Johnson and husband Ray of Corning; Raymond Spencer of Joliet, Ill.; Clyde Spencer and wife Joann of Bedford; Roy Spencer and wife Carolyn of Roodhouse, Ill.; and Evie Barnes and husband Mike of Des Moines; three sisters, Alice Tibbetts of Maryville, Mo.; Olive Wyckoff and husband Don of Norwalk; and Iva Sanders and husband Dale of Bedford; 21 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Preceding Helen in death were her husband Howard in 1948; her parents, Willard and Julia Smith; three sons, Howard Jr., Ivan and Donnie; four brothers, Kirk, Carl, Galen and another in infancy; two sisters in infancy; one grandchild, and one great-grandchild. [STEPHENS, RAYMOND KENNETH "AL"] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 23, 2002 RAYMOND KENNETH (AL) STEPHENS Graveside memorial services for Al Stephens, age 94 of Bedford, who died Tuesday, January 15, 2002, at the VA Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, were held Friday, January 18, 2002 at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford with military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164. Memorials can be given in Al's name. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford. Raymond Kenneth (Al) Stephens was born June 11, 1907 in Putnam, Illinois, the son of Stacy Campbell and Amelia Creachella Campbell. Al grew up in Putnam, Illinois and after graduation from high school he moved to South Bend, Indiana for a while before going to St. Louis where he barnstormed around the Midwest playing semi-pro baseball. He later moved to Kansas City where he worked for the Myron Green Cafeteria. It was while working there he met and married Frances Bullock on November 21, 1929. In 1943 Al answered the call to serve his country during World War II. He served in the United States Army from 1943 to 1945. In 1947 Al and Frances moved to Bedford, planning to only stay one year, and ended up owning and operating the Hamburger Inn. This was while Highway 148 was being paved from Bedford to the state line. Together Al and Frances ran this business for twenty-five years, selling out in 1972 to Darlene Derry. Upon their retirement, Al and Frances enjoyed themselves, taking many fishing trips to Minnesota. Al loved to hunt and play golf, he enjoyed people, especially the children. He had a generous heart, often giving food from the restaurant to those who needed it. The Hamburger Inn was their life and those whom they served became their family. Al was a member of the Episcopalian Church. Together Al and Frances have been active in the Bedford community for many years. Left to cherish Al's memory are his loving wife Frances of Bedford; a sister, Doris Clark of South Bend, Indiana; several nieces, nephews and a community of friends. Preceding Al in death are his parents, Stacy and Amelia; two brothers, Milton and Roy; and a sister, Mary.
Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 18, 1982 Ova Leo Stout, 86 Final Rites Were Held in Bedford Funeral services for Ova Leo Stout, 86, of Bedford, were held November 11 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home with Rev. Carl Cummings officiating. Mr. Stout died November 8, 1982 in St. Francis Hospital in Maryville, Mo. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Ova Leo Stout, son of Thomas and Pheobe Stout, was born at Bolckow, Missouri September 9, 1896. He grew to maturity in the area where he was born and was a farmer most of his life. He worked for Henry Field Nursery at Shenandoah, Iowa for seven years. He was a policeman at Essex, Iowa prior to moving to Bedford, Iowa, where he continued to farm until ill health forced him to retire. He enjoyed his work and took pride in keeping his farm neat and clean. He was always ready to help a friend or neighbor. He enjoyed little children and was glad to have them come and visit. He joined the Baptist Church at Bolckow at an early age. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister. Left to cherish his memory are his wife Waneta; two sisters-in-law: Dorothy Osborn of Garden Grove, California and Katherine Harris of Orting, Washington; cousins; nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, April 18, 1990 FERNE R. STRAIGHT Services for Ferne R. Straight, 70, Bedford, were held at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home April 19 officiated by Rev. Arlyn Clary. Burial was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa. Mrs. Straight died April 16, 1990 in Des Moines, Iowa at Iowa Methodist Hospital. Ferne Reed Straight, daughter of George B. [rown] Reed and Ada Bosch Reed was born at Blockton, Iowa September 9, 1919. Ferne was one of the Reed triplets. She lived on a farm in Jefferson Township, Taylor County, Iowa and grew to maturity near Blockton, Iowa where she attended the Big Springs Country School grades 1-8, High School in Blockton and Northwest Missouri Teacher's College. She attended the Bedford Methodist Church. On February 17, 1938 she was united in marriage to Howard A. [rthur] Straight at the Little Brown Church at Nashua, Iowa and they lived on a farm in Jackson Township, Taylor County, Iowa near Bedford. To this union two children were born, John H. Straight on November 4, 1942 and Robert A. Straight on April 4, 1946. She was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by George B. [rown] and Ada B. [osch] Reed, parents and Howard A. Straight, husband. Left to cherish her memory are John H. Straight, son and wife Pat of Kansas City, Mo.; Robert A. Straight, son and wife Jenny of Bedford, Iowa; Mabel Shay, sister, of Weldon, Iowa; Wilma Clary, sister and husband Oren of South Haven, Ks.; John Reed, brother and wife Bessie of Russellville, Mo.; James R. Straight, grandson and wife Sheila of Amos, Iowa; Jared D. Straight, grandson of Kansas City, Mo.; Joel A. Straight, grandson of Kansas City, Mo.; Selly T. Straight, granddaughter of Clarinda, Iowa; Julienne P. Long, step-grandchild, Lenexa, Ks.; Jacquelinne K Long, step-grandchild of Kansas City, Mo.; and Kevin L. Long, step-grandchild of Independence, Mo. She was a member of the Bedford Methodist Church, Methodist Women's Circle, Democratic Party of Taylor County, Taylor County Extension Council, U. K. Rural Women's Club. She was a kind and considerate mother, grandmother, sister and friend to all and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 16,1950, [p. 1] Mrs. Ella Thomas Ella Hardee, daughter of George Washington and Kizar Tomison Hardee, was born in Page County, Iowa, Nov. 14, 1886 [1866] , and died at the home of her son near Bedford, Nov. 9, 1950, five days short of her 84th birthday anniversary. She was united in marriage to Scott Thomas March 3, 1883, and to this union four children were born. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, two brothers, her husband and one daughter. She is survived by three sons, Fred Thomas, with whom she made her home, Charles, and Ralph, all of Bedford; nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Mrs. Thomas was a member of the First Baptist Church of Bedford. She lived most of her life in Taylor County. [THOMAS, FREDRIC WINFIELD, 1918-1961] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 2, 1961, [p. 1] Fred Thomas Rites Held Here Saturday Funeral services were held at the Bedford Baptist Church last Saturday afternoon for Fred Thomas, local well-known businessman, who died here following a heart attack last Thursday. Interment was in Fairview cemetery in Bedford where military honors were given by the American Legion Post No. 164. Rev. Colvin Caughey who presided at the service, read the following obituary: Fredric Winfield Thomas, son of Fred and Edna Chilcote Thomas was born Jan. 11, 1918 at Bedford, Iowa and departed this life at his home in Bedford, Jan. 26, 1961, at the age of 43 years and 15 days. He lived most of his early life near Gravity, where he attended school. In later years he moved to Bedford, where he was engaged in the restaurant business, at present operating the Skylark Caf�. He entered service with the U. S. Navy in June 1944 and was discharged in April 1946. On August 4, 1951 he was married to Patricia Cobb at Clear Lake, Iowa. To this union three children were born, Deborah Ann 8, David Dean 7 and Donna Sue 3. He was an active member of the Lions club, the American Legion Post, the I. O. O. F. Lodge, Bedford Volunteer Firemen and the Bedford Gun Club. Fredric was a loving and devoted husband and father. He was in all affairs of the community and for its betterment. He is survived by his wife Pat; the children, Debrah, David and Donna Sue; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Thomas of Bedford; two brothers Cleo and wife of Conway, Dean and family of Bedford; two sisters, Lucille Thomas of Costa Mesa, Calif., Dortha [Dorotha] Thomas of Los Angeles; and his aged grandmother, Mrs. Hattie Chilcote of Bedford. [THOMAS, PATRICIA LOUISE COBB] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, March 21, 2001 Funeral services for Patricia Thomas, age 71 of St. Joseph, Missouri, formerly of Bedford, who died Tuesday, March 13, 2001 in St. Joseph were held Sunday, March 18, 2001 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford with Pastor Ted DeHass officiating. Interment was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be given in her name. Patricia Louise Thomas was born June 3, 1929 in Bedford, Iowa, the daughter of Paul Monroe Cobb and Eulah Parrish Cobb. She attended school in Bedford, graduating in 1947. She was united in marriage to Fredric W. [infield] Thomas in Clear Lake, Iowa on August 4, 1951. Fredric and Pat owned and managed the Main Street and Skylark Cafes in Bedford until Fredric's death in 1961. Pat then moved with her three children to St. Joseph, Missouri, where she resided until her death. Pat will be remembered for her unfailing loyalty to family and friends. In the early years, her life was devoted to being a full-time mother. In later years, other friends and family members benefited from her loyalty and generosity of spirit. Always dependable and hardworking, Pat wanted no praise for these good deeds. Widowed after 11 years of marriage, Pat made the most of life for herself and her children. She met and overcame challenges with a determined, independent spirit. Throughout her life, she remained young at heart, always willing to try something new or do something she hadn't done in years, whether travelling abroad or more recently, sledding with her grandchildren at age 71. Pat loved craftwork, cooking, miniatures, especially sharing of her talents with others. She was well known in the family as "the best gift-giver," because her gifts ideally reflected each person's wants and needs. While she gave wonderful gifts, her life was the greatest gift of all. She will always be a part of the lives of her loved ones, in their thoughts and always in their hearts. Patricia is survived by her mother Eulah Cobb of St. Joseph, Missouri; three children, Deborah Pierce and husband Bill of Spokane, Washington; David Thomas and wife Elana and their children, Eric, Shelly and Nathan of Scappoose, Oregon; and Donna Sue Thomas and her children, Matthew and Patrick of Liberty Lake, Washington; a brother, Robert Cobb of St. Joseph, Missouri; and a sister, Virginia Joiner and husband Jasper of Nacogdoches, Texas. Preceding Patricia in death are her husband Fredric in 1961 and her father Paul. Clarinda Herald Journal, October 26, 1992 Darrell Dean Thompson Mr. Darrell Dean Thompson, 68 of Winnebago, Ne. died Wednesday, Oct. 21, 1992 at St. Francis Hospital in West Point, Ne. He was born January 19, 1924 at New Market, Ia, the son of Harvey and Mary Ethel Kelso Thompson. On August 25, 1949 he was married to Delores Hutton at College Springs, Ia. Mr. Thompson was a Church of God minister serving in several areas around the county. Now he was doing missionary work with the Indian�s near his home. He is survived by his wife Delores of the home and four children: Royce Dean Thompson, McMinnville, Tn.; Twila Jean Thompson, New York, N.Y.; Cheryl Darlene Thompson, St. Petersburg, Fl.; and Mrs. Keith (Maria Charlene) Moore, Phoenix, Ar. There are two grandchildren. Also surviving is his mother Mary Ethel Thompson, Clarinda and brother and sisters: Max Thompson, Mt. Home, Ar.; Mrs. Emory (Doris) Hardee Jr., Bedford, Ia.; Mrs. Jerry (Rosalie) Gray, Union, Mo. and Mrs. Don (Virginia) Hullinger, Phoenix, Az. Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home, Clarinda, Ia. Visitation will be from 7-8 p.m., Monday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to the Winnebago Church of God Indian Mission Fund. Burial will be in the Fairview cemetery at Bedford, Ia. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 20, 1978 Muriel Waterman Last Rites Held In Bedford April 18 Funeral services for Muriel M. Waterman, 80, of Bedford, held April 18 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home, were conducted by Rev. Carter Smith. Miss Waterman died April 16 in Methodist Medical Center in St. Joseph, Mo. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Muriel Margaret Waterman, daughter of John Waterman and Minnie Steele Waterman, was born in Taylor County, Iowa, June 10, 1897. She grew to maturity in Taylor County where she graduated from Bedford High School and attended the First Baptist Church where she was a member for over 65 years. She graduated from Northwestern Teacher�s College in Cedar Falls, Iowa and taught in the primary grades at Creston and Grinnell, Iowa and Missoula, Montana. Muriel graduated from Missouri Methodist School of Nursing, St. Joseph, Missouri, in 1942 and received her Bachelor of Science degree from Drake University in 1953. She spent 25 years in the nursing profession working in hospitals in Leavenworth, Chicago, and Des Moines. Left to cherish her memory are her sister: Ople Gunson of Bedford; her brother and his wife, Beryl and Laura Waterman of Kansas City, Missouri; her niece and her husband, Janet and John Whitten of Denver, Colorado; and her nephew and family, Joe and Judy Gunson and Jeff of Omaha, Nebraska. Muriel will be greatly missed by family, friends and neighbors. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 11, 1980 Chloe H. Wisdom, 86 Last Rites To Be Held Here Today Funeral services for Mrs. F. Dale (Chloe) Wisdom, 86, of Long Beach, California will be held today, December 11, at 2 p.m. in the Bedford United Methodist Church with Rev. James Dale and Rev. Carl Cummings officiating. Memorial services were held December 9 in McCormick Mortuary in Redondo Beach, California. Mrs. Wisdom died December 6 in Little Company of Mary Hospital in Torrance, California. She had been active and maintained her own residence until a week before death. Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Chloe H. [arriet] Wisdom was born in Nodaway County, Missouri near Pickering July 31, 1894 to Cyrus and Elizabeth Huey who came from Indiana. One of nine children, she attended country school and Hopkins (Mo.) High School. She was married to Dale (F. D.) Wisdom in the Methodist parsonage in Maryville, Mo., February 21, 1914. They made their home in Bedford. Dale was admitted to the Iowa Bar and practiced law in Bedford and Creston. He preceded her in death July 8, 1933. They had four children: Franklin D., Jr., William R., M. D., King H. and one daughter, Martha Louise, who died a child while on an extended vacation in California in 1927. After her husband's death, Mrs. Wisdom worked for Wilson's Hatchery in Bedford, was Deputy County Clerk, Treasurer and Assessor and was elected and served as Taylor County Recorder for two terms. She issued the first driver's licenses issued in Taylor County. From 1945 to 1965 she was Chief Clerk in the Iowa State Treasurer's office heading the petroleum rebate section in the state Capitol. Throughout her life she was active in the Republication party and at different times served as Taylor County Committee Woman and Iowa State Republican Committee Woman where she received special recognition for her zeal and on-going dedication. Mrs. Wisdom was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church in Bedford and belonged to the Bedford Chapter of O. E. S. and Rebekah Lodge. She spent most of the last 16 years in California but she would never relinquish her residency in Taylor County and continued to keep her auto registered in Iowa. She loved Bedford and kept a reprint of a poem prominently displayed on her desk. The poem entitled "Little Town" was clipped from the Bedford Times-Press. In addition to her three sons she is survived by three daughters-in-law: Drury D., Long Beach, Calif., Veronica M., Palos Verdes Estates, Calif, and Margaret R. of Saugus, Calif.; nine grandchildren: Martha Louise of Northridge, Calif., Elizabeth Ann, Saugus, Calif., Mrs. Allan Johnson (Deborah) of Oxnard, Calif., William R., Jr. and Franklin D. III of Redondo Beach, Calif., Stephanie and Sarah of Palos Verdes, Drury Ann and Bonnie Grace of Long Beach; one sister, Mary E. Hall of Hopkins, Mo. She was preceded in death by Myrtle Levy of Bedford, Lou Wallace of Shenandoah, Ia., Henry of Malvern, Ia., Charles, Atla, of New York State, Ethel Weingarth of Bedford and Ruth of St. Joe. Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, January 29, 1920, p. 5 Dies at Omaha Durward Wisdom, oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wisdom of this city, died at his home in Omaha Monday evening, after a short illness of pneumonia. The shock of the news of his death was so great that the mother was prostrated and confined to her bed, not being able to attend the funeral, which took place yesterday at Omaha. The family have the sympathy of the entire community in their great loss. We will give obituary next week. [WISDOM, DURWARD MATTHEW] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, March 4, 1920, p. 4 In Memoriam Durward Wisdom, son of Frank and Mary E. [ldora] Wisdom, was born at this place on the 17th day of October, 1879. He received his education in the common schools here; studied shorthand and became a secretary to the manager of the Armour & Company packing plant at Omaha, Nebraska, which position he held for some time, then became assistant manager, and then manager of the fresh meat department of that concern, in whose employ he remained in different capacities for eighteen years. He died of combine pneumonia and influenza at his home in Omaha on Jan. 26, 1920, after a short illness that resisted all attempts to stay. He left a wife and three children, the eldest of whom is twelve years, and the youngest seven. At or about the time of his marriage he united with the Catholic Church, his wife having been born and brought up in that faith. The funeral services were held at the Catholic Church known as the Sacred Heart, and the remains were interred in the cemetery of the Holy Sepulcher in Omaha. He was unusual both as lad and man; of equable temperament, amiable, devoted, industrious, and scrupulously honest. Of him also it might be truly said: �He pleased not himself, but others. He practiced the most rigid economy, and laid upon himself the command of an unfailing effort; and finally, when utterly tired out he turned his face away from life's toil and tumult, and sought that rest and peace which can only be found beyond earth's confines.----Blockton News [WISDOM, FRANCIS MINOR "FRANK"] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 29, 1940, [p. 1] Frank Wisdom, 84, Oldest Attorney In County, Dies at His Office Tuesday Frank Wisdom, 84, a practicing attorney in Bedford and Taylor County for many years, died at his office in Bedford about 5 o'clock Tuesday afternoon. The funeral services will be held at the Bedford Methodist Church at 10:30 o'clock Saturday forenoon, August 31. Mr. Wisdom was born in Davis County, Iowa in 1856, coming to Taylor County with his parents when two years of age. He was a resident of Blockton before moving to Bedford; his wife is the former Miss M. [ary] E. [ldora] King of Blockton. [WISDOM, FRANCIS MINOR "FRANK"] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 5, 1940, p. 8 Frank Wisdom Frank Minor Wisdom, son of Henry and Christina Russell Wisdom, was born in Davis County, Iowa on May 5, 1856 and died at Bedford, Iowa, on Tuesday, August 27, 1940 at the age of 84 years, 3 months and 22 days. On Nov. 21, 1878 he was married at Blockton, Iowa, to Mary Eldora King. To them were born seven children, the eldest son Durward and the youngest son, Dale, having preceded their father in death. When a young man he taught school, later taking up the study of law, attending Simpson College. He practiced law several years before a certificate was required and was admitted to the bar in 1890. He practiced law in Taylor County almost continuously for more than fifty years. He was also admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of the United States. In early manhood he united with the Baptist church. His love of the practice of law filled his life and when death suddenly came he was at his office faithfully working---even as he himself might have chosen the end to come. Surviving with his wife are five children: Paul and Fay of Los Angeles, Calif.; Mrs. Pearl Price of Barnard, Mo.; Mrs. Floy Maxwell and Mrs. Della Clark of Bedford. There are also sixteen grandchildren and six great grandchildren. He had five half-brothers: Robert Wade Wisdom of Oregon, Bertrand Wisdom of ���., Elmore Wisdom of Middleton, Calif.; Roy C. Wisdom of Lake Charles, La.; and one half-sister, Goldie Ohneck of Middleton, Calif. The funeral services were held at the Bedford Methodist church Saturday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Stanley Schlick. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 6, 1933, [p. 1] F. Dale Wisdom Dies Sunday Franklin Dale Wisdom, 41, died Sunday, July 2, in Clarinda. The funeral services were held Wednesday morning at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wisdom, conducted by Rev. Clark M. Crowell and assisted by Rev. C. F. McMican. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery. He was born at Blockton, Iowa, June 20, 1892. After acquiring a common school education he entered the law office of his father, where he pursued the study of law, passed the examination in the Supreme Court of the State of Iowa, and was admitted to practice law in October 1923. He was associated with his father in the practice of law for a while at Bedford, Iowa, and later for five years at Creston. He was a member of the Taylor County bar Association, and the American Bar Association. He was married to Miss Chloe Huey of Maryville, February 21, 1914. To them were born four children, Franklin Dale, Jr., Martha Louise, who preceded her father in death at the age of six years, William Russell and King Huey. Other surviving relatives are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wisdom of Bedford; two brothers, Paul Wesley Wisdom of Los Angeles, Calif., and Donald Fay Wisdom of Burbank, Calif.; three sisters, Mrs. McFarland Price of Bolckow, Mo., Mrs. Leonard Maxwell of Bedford, and Mrs. Prather Clark of Edinburg, Texas. His eldest brother Durward of Omaha, died in 1921. [WISDOM, FRANKLIN DALE] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, July 21, 1927, [p. 1] Martha Wisdom Dies At San Diego, Calif. Six-Year-Old Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dale Wisdom Word was received here Sunday announcing the death of Martha, the six-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dale Wisdom, which occurred at San Diego, Calif., that morning. Particulars were not obtainable at this writing, but it appears that Mr. and Mrs. Wisdom are on a trip through the west, and were at San Diego, when this sad event occurred. The body of little Martha will be shipped to Bedford and interment made in the local cemetery. Funeral arrangements will be made to conform to the arrival of the body here. [WISDOM, MARTHA LOUISE] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, July 28, 1927, p. 7 Martha Louise Wisdom Martha Louise Wisdom, daughter of F. [ranklin] D. [ale] and Chloe Wisdom, was born at Bedford, Iowa, January 1, 1921 and passed away to the care of Him who said, �Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not for such is the kingdom of Heaven,� at San Diego, Calif., Sunday, July 17, 1927. She was early in her life received into the M. E. church at Bedford, Iowa, by immersion. Death occurred while the family was on an automobile trip to California. She became ill near Phoenix, Arizona, probably caused by excessive heat and unhygienic water. She was rushed by an all night drive to Yuma, Arizona, the nearest adequate hospital point. Her condition becoming rapidly more serious she was again rushed by automobile in the care of a physician and nurse to Mercy Hospital at San Diego, California, where it was thought by authorities after a time that her recovery was certain, but while in the full possession of her mental faculties a few minutes before she expired she said, "Daddy take me up in your arms or I will die. I see hands reaching for me." Judging by her gentle and perfect little life it is not improbable that while of still of life a part yet she stood so near that mystic land that she actually saw the hands of angels extended waiting to receive the soul wavering between two worlds. The members of her immediate family left desolate besides her father and mother are her brothers Franklin D. Jr. and William Russell. The family moved to this city nearly two years ago, since which time Martha Louise has been attending the Lincoln school. She won the love of everybody who met her by her modest, quiet and innocent ways. The funeral services were held at the home of Frank Wisdom at Bedford, Ia., at 11 o'clock Friday and the remains were interred in the Fairview cemetery at that city. The services were conducted by Rev. Charles W. Graham of Creston and Rev. G. T. Roberts of Bedford, both of the M. E. church. A number of friends from Creston, Blockton and Lenox attended the services. ---Creston Daily Advertiser [WISDOM, MARTHA LOUISE] [WISDOM, MARY ELDORA "DORA" KING] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 15, 1945, [p. 1] Mrs. Frank Wisdom Dies At Home Here Mrs. Eldora King, daughter of Louisa Jane Moore and Thomas A. King, was born Dec. 10, 1860 near Sedalia, Missouri. Because of the Civil War, her parents took her, when very young, to Mormontown, Iowa, which is now Blockton, and there she grew to young womanhood. On November 21, 1878 she was married to Frank M. [inor] Wisdom. To them were born seven children, who all grew to maturity. Two sons, Durward and Dale, preceded their parents in death. Mr. Wisdom died August 27, 1940. The remaining children are Paul W. [esley] and Donald Fay of Los Angeles, Mrs. Pearl Price of Barnard, Missouri, Mrs. Della Clark and Mrs. Floy Maxwell of Bedford. There are also sixteen grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. At an early age she united with the Methodist church and served as a devout member for the remainder of her life. She was also a member of the Order of Eastern Star. She died Thursday, November 8, at her home in Bedford where she had resided for the past 40 years. She had been in failing health for two years but was seriously ill only a few days. Her parents, brothers and sisters have been gone for many years. Funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home Monday forenoon, November 12. Rev. H. L. Hufstader in charge. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery. |