Obituaries |
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com |
[ANTHONY, PATRICK LEE "PAT"] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 20, 1955 Patrick Lee Anthony Dies Patrick Lee Anthony, a member of the sophomore class of Gravity High school, died at St. Francis Hospital, Maryville, Thursday morning, January 13 at the age or 17 years, six months, 24 days. He was ill only a short time. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Gravity Methodist church, conducted by Rev. W. D. Lee. Burial in Gravity cemetery. Patrick Lee Anthony was born June 20, 1937 at Red Oak, Iowa, the son of Willard and Grace Anthony. Patrick, better known as "Pat" spent most of his life with his parents in Sparks, Nevada, moving to Gravity last fall. He was a member of the Church of the Nazarene at Sparks. He is survived by his parents, a sister, Ona Anthony of Gravity; his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Artlip of California.
Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 15, 1966 Mrs, Med Beery Rites Dec 6 Funeral services for Mrs. Med (Essie) Beery, 75, of Gravity, were held, at Walker Funeral Home in Clarinda December 6 with Rev. Sherman Mills in charge. Mrs. Beery died at Clarinda Municipal Hospital December 3. Interment was at Butler Cemetery near Shambaugh. The daughter of the late David and Hannah Johnson Weaver, she was born at Shambaugh and spent her entire lifetime as a resident of southwest Iowa. She is survived by her husband Melvin J. (Med) Beery, three sons, Gerald Beery, Richland, Ore., Nicholas Beery, Omaha, Nebr., and Bernard Beery, Gravity; two brothers, Arthur Weaver, Gravity; and Paul Weaver, Davenport; and one sister, Mrs. Fred (Lois) Buch of Clarinda. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 30, 1968 Med Beery, 78, Rites Monday Melvin J. (Med) Beery of, Gravity died at the Clarkson Hospital in Omaha May 22 after a lingering illness. He was born on a farm a mile south of Shambaugh on Nov. 18, 1889 to Amos and Laura Woods Beery. He was married to Essie Weaver and the couple purchased a farm near Guss about 40 years ago where they lived until Mr. Beery moved into Gravity. His wife died on Dec. 3, 1966, and a son, Bernard, 17 days later. He is survived by two sons, Gerald of Richland; Ore., and Nick of Stanton, Nebr. Two sisters are Mrs. Lulu Overholt of Shambaugh and Mrs. Walter (Gertrude) Huff of near Maryville, Mo. Funeral services were held Monday at Walker Funeral Home in Clarinda. Interment was at Butler Cemetery near Shambaugh. [BORWIG, LAWRENCE CARTER "LARRY"] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 27, 1978 Last Rites Held April 22 For Lawrence Borwig Funeral services for Lawrence Carter Borwig, 20, of Gravity were held in the Gravity Christian Church April 22 with Rev. Mel Smith officiating. Mr. Borwig died in a car accident near Bedford April 18. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Lawrence Carter Borwig, son of Mrs. Dorothy Reed of Gravity, Iowa, and Herman O. Borwig of Herford, Oregon, was born at Iowa City, Iowa on January 25, 1958. Lawrence attended the Bedford Community Schools where he graduated with the class of 1977. He especially enjoyed sports, while winning several medals through competition. After graduation he joined the National Guards at Red Oak, and was assigned to the Department of Transportation. Larry took his basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., leaving his home August 7 and returning December 16, 1978. Larry was a ready helping hand to anyone who needed him and was of a happy nature, and had many friends. At the time of his death he was working for the Vogt Seed Company in Bedford. Larry leaves to mourn his passing, his mother, Dorothy Reed of Gravity and his father, Herman Borwig, of Herford, Oregon; his brothers, Douglas Borwig of Conway; Roland Reed Jr. and James Reed of the home; his sister, Mrs. George (Hermanetta) Carson of Council Bluffs; Marcella Borwig and Donna M. Reed also of the home; his grandmother, Mrs. Neva Reed of Clarinda; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins and his many friends. He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Roland F. [rank] Reed. [BURGMAIER, LETA MAXINE DUGAN PERSHIN] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, February 23, 1994 LETA MAXINE PERSHIN BURGMAIER Leta Maxine Pershin Burgmaier, 74, passed away February 12 at Bedford Manor. She had been a resident there since August of 1990 after her affliction of Alzheimer's became severe. Maxine, daughter of Milo and Theo Dugan was born June 1, 1919 near Gravity, Iowa. She grew to maturity in that area attending school and church in Gravity. She was united in marriage to Clifford Elbert Pershin November 1, 1937. To this union three children were born: a daughter, Mildred, (Mrs. Edward Johnson) of Gravity, Iowa, two sons, Clifford of Stanton, Iowa and Gary of Center Point, Iowa. Elbert and Maxine always lived in Taylor County farming near Siam until 1969. They then purchased a farm near Clearfield so Elbert and his brother Mack could farm together. Maxine loved the country life and was very much involved with raising their livestock and other outside farm work. She was a very hard worker, always busy. She raised large gardens and usually had plenty to share. Maxine and Elbert enjoyed their neighbors and got together often for a visit, which could include homemade ice cream, a fish fry or a game of cards. Maxine managed the farm after Elbert's death in 1972 with the help of son Gary and good neighbors. She started working at the Bedford Manor in 1977 where she worked for several years. She enjoyed having her grandchildren stay with her and did fun things with them such as fishing, taking them to rodeos, having wiener roasts and playing games. Maxine married Herman Burgmaier March 27, 1979. She enjoyed all the traveling they did together on vacations and trips in the truck hauling grain and livestock. They enjoyed all their friends and the good times they had together. She was preceded in death by husband Elbert and her parents. Left to cherish her memory are: husband Herman, daughter Mildred and husband Edward Johnson, sons Clifford and wife Bonnie, and Gary and wife Loretta; eight grandchildren, Roy Johnson and wife Trish of New Market, Iowa, Sandra and Mark Davison, Siam, Iowa, Cathy and Brian Payne, Conway, Mo., Patty and Vilas Morris, Jacksonville, N.C., Roger Johnson, Brookfield, Mo., James Johnson, Gravity, Iowa, Darcie Pershin, Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Darrell Pershin of Creston, Iowa; four great grandchildren, Alicia and Luke Davison, and Krista and Cody Morris; three stepsons Gordon Burgmaier, Bedford, Iowa, Eugene Burgmaier and wife Mary of Bedford, Iowa, Marshal Burgmaier and wife Dixie of Clay Center, Neb.; several step-grandchildren, one brother, Lowell Dugan and wife of Gravity, Iowa; brothers-in-law, Mack Pershin and wife Dorothy, Creston, Iowa, and Ernest Burgmaier and wife Margaret, Winterset, Iowa; sisters- in-law, Lela Pershin Dukes, Mt. Ayr, Iowa, Pearl Pershin, Denver, Colo., and Lela Burgmaier Campbell, Creston, Iowa; many nieces and nephews, friends and other relatives. She was a kind and considerate wife, mother, and grandmother and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Funeral services were held February 15, 1994 at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home with Bruce Willard officiating. Interment was at Washington Cemetery near Gravity, Iowa. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 3, 1984 Graveside Services For Linda Burright Held in Gravity Graveside services for Linda Helen Burright, 33, of Omaha, Nebr., formerly of Gravity, Ia., were held April 26 at Washington Cemetery, in Gravity following services that morning at Northwest Hills United Church of Christ in Omaha. She died April 22 in Clarkson Hospital, Omaha. Linda Helen Burright, daughter of H. [enry] Wayne and Helen Mae Burright, was born December 22, 1950 in Clarinda, Ia. She lived with her parents and two brothers on a farm in Taylor County, Ia. and attended Mt. Pleasant country school and Gravity elementary school. Her family moved to Omaha, Ne. in 1962 where she attended Clifton Hill Elementary, Monroe Jr. High and Benson Sr. High Schools. While in junior and senior high she played clarinet in the marching band. She attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha on a four-year scholarship. While in college, she was a member of the band for two years and the choir for one year. She was also a member of Phi Kappa Phi Honorary Society. She graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha Magna Cum Laude with a BA degree n mathematics. After graduation she worked for eight years for the National Indemnity Insurance Company as a statistician. Failing eyesight and ill health forced her to resign in 1981. Linda was always active in her church. She was assistant organist, sang in the choir, and played the piano for children's Sunday school until she was no longer able to do so. She also enjoyed playing the clarinet with the Nebraska Wind symphony. One of her joys was travel and in recent years she had taken a bus tour to the New England states and Canada, toured Israel and the Holy Land and had also gone to Europe where she attended the Passion Play in Germany. After her eyesight failed, she then had kidney failure and underwent hemodialysis treatments for about six months. She received a kidney transplant about a year and a half ago but her health continued to decline. Linda was patient and courageous through all her suffering and was an inspiration to ill who knew her. Survivors include her parents, Wayne and Helen Mae Burright, two brothers and sisters-in-law, Warren and Pamela Burright, Dennis and Teresa Burright, two nieces, Catherine and Christine Burright all of Omaha. One grandfather, Mark Young of Des Moines and many other relatives and friends. [BURWELL, ESTHER LUCILLE MOORE] Clarinda Herald Journal, Monday, October 17, 1988 Services Monday for Burwell, 77 Mrs. Esther Lucille Burwell, 77, of Clarinda died Saturday morning, Oct. 15, 1988, at Municipal Hospital. She was born Oct. 23, 1910 at Gravity, the daughter of Ira and Cenia Riley Moore. She was married to Clifford Burwell, who preceded her in death in 1971. Mr. and Mrs. Burwell had lived in several locations with his work. He died while they were living in Texas. Mrs. Burwell had lived at Clarhaven before going to Bethesda Care Center where she had been for the past one and a half years. Survivors include a brother, Alvin Moore of Nebraska City, Ne, and nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held this Monday afternoon at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home with Rev. Alfred Hunter officiating. Burial was in Washington Cemetery at Gravity. [CHURCHILL, DOYLE ELMER "BUS" ] Clarinda Herald Journal, Monday, July 6, 1981 Doyle Churchill service pending Funeral services for Doyle E. [lmer] Churchill, 61 of rural Gravity are pending at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home following his death Sunday afternoon at Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs. He was born Dec. 6, 1919, at New Market, the son of Elmer and Jessie Baker Churchill. He worked for Taylor County for 26 years and was a WWII veteran. In 1943 he was married to Floretta Tackert who survives. Surviving children are Mrs. Richard (Margaret) Hanson, San Francisco, Ca; Mrs. Joseph (Susan) Fitch, Omaha; Mrs. Tom (Teresa) Rowe, LaCygne, Ks; Gary Churchill, Ankeny, Ia; Mark Churchill, Bedford; and Mrs. Kevin (Mary Ann) Morse, Emerson, Ia. There are 6 grandchildren. Brothers and sisters are Mrs. Albert (Delores) Barton, Fremont, Ne; Bob Churchill, Gravity; Mrs. Bob (Arlene) Conaway, Council Bluffs, Ia, and Max Churchill, Elizabethton, Tn. His mother is Mrs. Jessie Churchill of Gravity. Burial will be in the Washington cemetery at Gravity. Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, July 9, 1981 Doyle Churchill service held Funeral services for Doyle E. [lmer] Churchill, 61, of rural Gravity were held Wednesday afternoon at St. Clare Catholic Church with Father Don Bruck officiating. Mr. Churchill died Sunday evening at Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs. Rozann Seela was soloist and Ruth Garrett organist. Casket bearers were Charles Lucas, Weldon Jones, Herb Freeman, Floyd Jobe, Jack Ambrose, and Clarence Vore. Burial was in Washington cemetery at Gravity with Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. [CHURCHILL, FLORETTA ALVERNA "FLIP" TACKERT] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, October 7, 1998 Floretta Alverna Churchill Floretta Alverna Tackert was born in Danbury, Nebraska to Worth and Estella Tackert on February 4, 1923. Floretta, known by everyone as Flip, graduated from Danbury Consolidated High School in Nebraska at the age of sixteen. , She then attended McCook Junior College and Creighton University of Omaha. While attending Creighton, Flip met Doyle Churchill, known by all as Bus. They were united in marriage at Saint John's rectory near Creighton University on March 18, 1943. The Churchill's served their country in World War II. Bus served in the Air Force as a mechanic, and Flip served in the Motor Corps as a civilian. When Bus returned from overseas they lived in Miami, Florida until his discharge at which time they moved back to Omaha, Nebraska. By 1947 the Churchill family had purchased the farm at Gravity, Iowa (Bus' hometown). There they would set down roots and raise their six children. Bus worked for the Taylor County Secondary Road Department, while Flip raised their flock of children. In 1968 Flip returned to school and graduated with a 4.0 grade point average from the Iowa Western Community College Nursing Program. After graduating in 1969 Flip worked at the Clarinda Mental Health Institute until retiring in 1981. After Bus' death in 1981 she left the family farm to move to Gravity and later to the Bedford Housing Unit. After retiring Flip managed the Bedford Congregate Meal Site for five years before her second retirement. Flip was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bedford and enjoyed church work, politics, painting, reading, and most importantly, people. Flip was hospitalized after a fall on September 9, 1998. She was transferred to the Manor of Malvern and passed away suddenly on September 26, 1998. Flip was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bus; sister, Flecia [Felicia]; and son, Mark. Left to cherish her memory are children: Peggy and husband, Richard Hanson of Concord, California; Susan and husband Joe Fitch of Omaha, Nebraska; Teresa and husband Tom Rowe of Olathe, Kansas; Gary and wife Ann Churchill of Ankeny, Iowa; Mary Anne and husband Kevin Morse of Malvern, Iowa; and daughter in law Pam and husband Dave Hartstack of Clarinda, Iowa. She also leaves thirteen grandchildren and one great grandchild.? Flip will be missed for her cheerful chatter, powerful opinions and listening ear. Services were held September 29, 1998 at St. Clare Catholic Church in Clarinda with burial at Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Services were conducted by Novinger Taylor Funeral Home of Bedford.
Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 4, 1957, p. 7 Elmer Churchill dies Funeral services were held here Monday afternoon at the Methodist church for Elmer Churchill, 58, farmer living west of town. He had been ill for several months and he died at his home Saturday. He is survived by his wife Jessie, three sons, Bob and Doyle of Gravity, Max of Council Bluffs; two daughters, Mrs. Delores Barton of Fremont, Nebr., and Mrs. Ralph Ayers of Council Bluffs; two brothers, Orle and Clarence of Gravity and one sister, Mrs. Hazel Besco of Minnesota; twelve grandchildren. [CHURCHILL, OLE ELMER] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 18, 1957, p. 4 Obituary – Elmer Churchill Ole Elmer Churchill, son of [Andrew] Eugene and George [Georgia] Anna Churchill, was born April 2, 1898, three miles north of Gravity, and died March 29, 1957 at the age of 58 years, 11 months, 27 days. He lived his entire life where he was born with the exception of the last four years, having purchased the farm where he resided at the time of his death. On May 21, 1919 he was married to Jessie May Baker [Typton] of New Market. To them five children were born, Mrs. Delores Barton of Fremont, Nebr., Max Churchill and Mrs. Arlyne Eyres of Council Bluffs, Doyle and Bob of Gravity. He leaves to mourn his passing, his devoted wife and five children, twelve grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Howard Besco of Albert Lea, Minn.; two brothers, Ora and Clarence Churchill of Gravity. He was preceded in death by his father, mother and two sisters. He was a kind and loving husband and father, a source of comfort and courage at all times to his family and friends.
Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 11, 1979 Last Rites Held January 2 For Lyle Kenneth Cox Funeral services for Lyle Kenneth Cox, 30, of New Market, held January 2 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home, were conducted by Rev. Robert Shane. Mr. Cox died December 30, 1978 in Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Lyle Kenneth Cox, second son of Beatrice and Ralph Cox, was born February 2, 1948 at Maryville, Missouri. He was reared and grew to manhood on the family farm southeast of New Market in Mason Township. He attended Silverlake School, a rural school, and then completed his schooling at New Market High School. After high school he attended Clarinda Community College, Clarinda, Iowa, where he met his wife, Barbara. Lyle then completed his education at Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa in March of 1971. His education centered on agriculture and his main interests and occupation in recent years has centered around seed corn production. Lyle was united in marriage to Barbara Greer of Shenandoah, Iowa, on August 25, 1968. To this union there was born one daughter, Deanna Lynn. Lyle was very interested in the outdoor life and he expressed his feelings not only in his life style he chose, but also by the many hunting, fishing and rock hunting trips he enjoyed. He also was very adept at woodworking, making many lovely picture frames and furniture for his home and family. He leaves his wife Barbara; one daughter, Deanna Lynn, age three; parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Cox, New Market; one brother and family, Mr. and Mrs. Allen Cox, Cavin and Pamela, New Market; one grandmother, Mrs. Iola Rogers, Osborn, Missouri; his wife's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Greer, Shenandoah, Iowa; two brothers-in-law and wives, Mr. and Mrs. John Greer and family of Kansas City, Mo. and Mr. and Mrs. Jodie Greer and family, Springfield, Mo.; and many more friends and relatives. He will be sadly missed by all those who knew and loved him. [DAVIDSON, HARRY BURTON "BERT"] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 6, 1957, p. 9 Bert Davidson Dies Bert Davidson, 82, long-time resident of Gravity, died Saturday evening at Rosary hospital in Corning. He suffered a stroke early Saturday morning. [DAVIDSON, HARRY BURTON "BERT"] Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, June 6, 1976, p. 9 Long-Time Gravity Resident Died In Corning Saturday Bert Davidson, 82, died from Stroke GRAVITY, June 3---Bert Davidson, 82, long time resident of this community, died at the hospital in Corning Saturday, having suffered a stroke early Saturday. He is survived by a sister in Kansas City, unable to attend the funeral. A daughter, Mrs. G [ladys] Crosen of Carriere, Miss, and a niece, Mrs John McFarland, are expected. [DAVIDSON, HARRY BURTON "BERT"] Clarinda Journal, Thursday, December 23, 1915, p. 11 H. [arry] B. [urton] Davidson of Hot Springs, S. Dak., who came to Clarinda for the funeral of his father, Hi Davidson, will remain in Clarinda and vicinity for the winter. Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, December 16, 1915, p. 14 NEW MARKET Word was received Tuesday morning of the death of Hiram Davidson, one of New Market's citizens, who has been visiting at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Perry Owens in Clarinda. He was an old resident of this count and an old soldier. [DAVIDSON, HIRAM "HI"] Clarinda Journal, Thursday, December 16, 1915, p. 5 Hi Davidson A well-known man and an excellent citizen, Hi Davidson, has passed to the other world. He was of that genial nature and kindly manner that will make him much missed by his friends and acquaintances. He was born near Savannah, Mo., March 7, 1843. Hi death took place at the home of his daughter, Mrs. P. [erry] W. Owen, in Clarinda, Ia., Thursday, Dec. 14, 1915, at 8 p. m. The Journal is furnished the following record of his career: In 1851 he came with his parents to Page County, where, in 1861 he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Benson. They rented a farm near the home of his parents in East River Township, where they lived until his enlistment in the Union army in 1863. He was a private in Company A of the Eighth Iowa cavalry under Capt. G. W. Burns of Clarinda and served in this company through the war. He was mustered out at Washington, D. C. where he received an honorable discharge. At the close of the war he returned to his home and resumed farming which he followed until his wife died in 1872. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Davidson---one daughter and three sons. Mrs. Laura Stockton of Kansas City, Mo.; Samuel of South Dakota, and Wilburt and Walter, who died in infancy. After the death of his wife he moved to Clarinda, where he engaged in the livery business with Capt. Burns. On March 12, 1873, he married the second time, his bride being Miss Mary Clark. He remained in the livery business until 1876, when he moved to Missouri, where he lived for three years on a farm, after which he bought a hotel at Bolckow, Mo., which he sold in 1883 and moved back to Page County, to what is known as the Liggett farm, two miles south of Hawleyville, where he lived for six years. In 1889 he purchased the farm, in Nebraska Township, then known as the Walker place, where he moved and went into the stock buying business, which he followed until a few years before his death. In 1907 he sold the farm and bought a tract of five acres adjoining New Market, at which place he lived until the death of his second wife, in 1908, after which he bought a home property in New Market, where he made his home until his death. Three children were born to the second union: Burton, of South Dakota, Mrs. P. W. Owen of Clarinda, and Willie, who died in infancy. He was a member in good standing of the Masonic lodge of New Market and also of Warren post, G. A. R., of Clarinda. His funeral takes place at the Methodist Episcopal church in Clarinda, this afternoon at 3 oÕclock, conducted by the pastor, Rev. A. S. Woodard. Among relatives here for the funeral are Mrs. Stockton, daughter, and her daughter, Blanche, of Kansas City, Mo.; Burton and Samuel of South Dakota, and Mrs. P. W. Owen of this city. [GARRETT, EUNICE JULIAN FINCH] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 30, 1967 Mrs. Sam Garrett Rites March 25 Graveside services for Mrs. Sam (Eunice) Garrett, 75, of Natoma, Kansas, were held March 25 at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa, following services earlier at the Church of God in Natoma, with Rev. V. E. Grogg officiating. Mrs. Garrett died March 22 at Plainville Hospital. Eunice Julian Finch, daughter of Orman and Belle Thurston Finch, was born October 7, 1891 at Sewal, Iowa. At the age of 14 she moved to Kansas with her family and lived southwest of Natoma. She attended the Church of God at the Pleasant Ridge School. In 1909 she was united in marriage to Sam Garrett of Gravity. They moved to Wetmore, Kans., to a farm where a son, Sammie J. Garrett was born. They moved to Iowa for a time, later moved to Missouri and in 1946 they settled in Natoma, which has been their home until her death. Mrs. Garrett had been in poor health for some time; she broke her hip last summer and on March 18 of this year was taken to the hospital following a stroke. She will be greatly missed by her husband who had taken care of her so faithfully and by the rest of her family and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Jessie and Eulah and brothers, Gavin, Lyle, Port, Bell and Millard. She is survived by her husband, Sam Garrett, of Natoma, Kans.; by her son and daughter-in-law, Sammie J. and Ethel Garrett of Downey, Calif.; four grandchildren, Robert, Dorothy, Marvin and Nancy and 6 great granddaughters, all of California. Also surviving are three sisters: Jean Matheson, Natoma, Kans., Agnes Williams, Nunn, Colo., Holly Clair, Whittier, Calif.; one brother, Orman Finch, Oak Creek, Colo., and a host of other relatives and friends. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 22, 1954, [p. 1] Geo. Garrett, 79, Died In Kansas George Garrett, son of Jacob and Mary Ann Coin [Coyan] Garrett was born in Taylor County, Iowa, Dec. 5, 1874 and died at the home of his brother, Sam Garrett, at Natoma, Kansas, July 16, 1954, where he had been making his home for the past three and a half years. At the time of his death he was 79 years, 7 months, and eleven days old. He had been in failing health for the past year. He was united in marriage to Jannie [Jennie} Garrett at Corning, Iowa. They made their home on a farm northwest of Gravity until they moved to Gravity in 1924. Mrs. Garrett preceded him in death May 27, 1950. George Garrett was one of seventeen children, nine of whom have preceded him in death. He leaves to mourn his passing, Mrs. Jane Winslow of Fairplay, Mo., Mrs. Carrie Alkire of Union, Iowa, Will of Gravity, Clyde of White Salmon, Wash., Frank of New Market, Charley of Lenox and Sam of Natoma, Kansas. Funeral services were held at the Methodist church in Gravity, Tuesday, July 20, conducted by Rev. Howard DeVore, pastor. Burial in Washington cemetery. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 16, 1954, [p. 1] WILLIAM M GARRETT Funeral services for William Marion Garrett of Gravity were held at the Methodist church there, Tuesday, September 14. Rev. Howard DeVore, the pastor, was in charge. William Garrett, son of Jacob and Mary Ann Coin [Coyan] Garrett, was born Jan. 17, 1868. At the time of his death he was 86 years old. He was married to Myrtle Barnes in 1910. He was one of 17 children, ten of whom preceded him in death. He leaves to mourn his passing one daughter, Mrs. Thelma Richey, Gravity; three grandsons, two granddaughters, six great grandsons. He also leaves two sisters, Mrs James Winslow of Fairplay, Mo; Mrs. Carrie Alkire of Union, Iowa; four brothers, Clyde Garrett of White Salmon, Wash; Frank Garrett of New Market, Charley Garrett of Lenox, Sam Garrett of Natoma, Kans. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 30, 1968, p. 5 Mrs. Cora Gold Dies in Co. Bluffs Mrs. Cora Gold of Council Bluffs, formerly of Conway, died May 28 in Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs. Services will be held at 10 a m Friday at Council Bluffs with graveside services at Washington Cemetery, Gravity at 1:30 p m. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 24, 1965, p. 7 Orville C. Gold Rites June 9 Funeral services for Orville C. Gold of Council Bluffs, formerly of Conway, were held June 9 in Council Bluffs with interment at Gravity. Mr. Gold died June 7 at Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs. Orville C. [hester] Gold was born Dec. 14 at Chesterfield, Ind. He is survived by his wife, Cora, a son Charles Gold of Indianola; a daughter and husband, Jeanette and Bill Colglazier of Council Bluffs; two grandsons and four great grandchildren. [HASENFRATZ, CAROLYN BELLE WOODS MILLION] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, June 12, 2002 CAROLYN BELLE HASENFRATZ Funeral services for Carolyn Hasenfratz, age 55 of Gravity, who died Tuesday, June 4, 2002 were held Saturday, June 8, 2002 at 2:00 p.m. at the Gravity Christian Church with Pastor John Wagoner officiating. Interment was held in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials can be given in Carolyn's name. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford. Carolyn Belle Million Hasenfratz was born November 1,1946 in St. Joseph, Missouri the daughter of Eugene Woods and Maxine Stephenson Woods. Carolyn grew up in the Hopkins area graduating from high school in 1965. Carolyn married Leonard Million and they lived in Kansas. On August 23, 1974 she was united in marriage to Richard Hasenfratz in McPherson, Kansas. Together they continued living in Kansas, returning to the Gravity/Bedford area in 1978. Carolyn worked for the Bedford Nursing and Rehab and for Burcliff Industries in Corning. She loved to garden and can. She enjoyed sewing, quilting and camping. She loved being around people, especially her family and grandkids. Carolyn's favorite color was purple. Carolyn is survived by her loving husband Richard of Gravity; her mother, Maxine Woods of Bedford; a son, Dean Million and Jackie Bateman of McPherson, Kansas; two daughters, Frances Gladman and husband J. R. of Bedford; and Chris Irwin and husband Dale of Hopkins; four stepsons, Rick and Tony Hasenfratz of Colorado; Nicky and Jessie Hasenfratz of Augusta, Kansas; six brothers, Russ Woods of Corning; Lloyd Woods of Hopkins; Charles Woods of Hopkins; Earl Woods of Maryville; Larry Woods of Clarinda and Gary Woods of Hamburg; two sisters, Nancy Curtis of Savannah, Missouri and Ethel Glidden of Clarinda; and three grandchildren, Katrina Gladman of Bedford; and Tabetha and Keith Irwin of Hopkins, Missouri. Preceding Carolyn in death were her father, Eugene and a brother, Curtis Woods. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, June 11, 1986 Graveside services held for Hoyt Graveside services were held June 9 at Washington Cemetery in Gravity for Steven Dean Hoyt. Reverend Ross Keyt officiated. Steven Hoyt, son of Edward Dean Hoyt and Janice Elaine Hoyt was born at Decatur County Hospital, Leon, Iowa, October 2, 1984 and departed this life June 6, 1986 at Mercy Hospital, Des Moines, Iowa, at the age of one year, eight months and four days. He lived in Hopeville, Iowa in Clarke County. He was preceded in death by his great grandmother: Stella Clement of Osceola, Iowa; grandmother: Marie Waggoner of Gravity, Iowa and grandfather: William Waggoner of Joplin, Missouri. Left to cherish his memory are his father, Edward Hoyt; mother, Janice Hoyt; sister, Crystal Hoyt; grandparents: Don and Sylvia Hoyt; great grandparents, Carl Clement, Esther and Oran Hoyt; aunts, uncles and cousins. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 9, 1978 Mrs. Leland Jones Last Rites Were Held October 31 Funeral services for Mrs. Leland (Beula[h] Rose) Jones 72, of Bedford, held October 13 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here, were conducted by Carl Cummings and Rev. Robert Jones. Mrs. Jones died October 29 in Rosary Hospital in Corning. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Ia. Beulah Rose Phillips was born on May 26, 1906, in DeKalb County, Missouri, the daughter of Robert and Mellissa Phillips. She was one of 12 children born to them of which nine grew to adulthood. She grew to maturity in Bedford where she attended the public schools and graduated from the Bedford High School in the class of 1925. On December 19, 1925, she was united in marriage to Leland Jones and to them were born three sons: Rev. Robert Jones of Colfax, Iowa; Richard Jones of Independence, Missouri; Gerald Jones of Bedford, Iowa; and one daughter, Barbara (Mrs. John) Walston also of Bedford, Iowa. Surviving her are her husband, Leland of the home; three sons and one daughter; 14 grandchildren and three great grandchildren; a sister, Mrs. Stella Houck of Corning, Iowa; and a brother, Howard Phillips of Richmond, California. Beulah was baptized in the Christian Church at an early age and in later years while living in Conway, Iowa, transferred her membership to the Methodist Church there. The Church and her Lord were a deep part of her life. She taught Sunday School several years; and was active in the various departments of the church and was known for singing at church and various other events. Her great love was her Lord and family in that order. Unlike many, who suffer pain and affliction, she used it as a time for spiritual fellowship. She was deeply devoted to her husband and children and often foregoing personal needs to care for theirs. During her 20 some years of being arthritic she was confined to a wheel chair. It never imprisoned her although she spent long hours alone. She prayed often and fervently for the needs of her family. Though the children were not always aware of it, she knew when ever they had deep problems and frequently the Lord would reveal part of it to her and then she would pray much. She never considered herself creative, but from her sheltered life and affliction, she made many articles for which scores of people were to receive. All of these were expressions of her love for life and for people. Every grandchild would receive something of her work. For her children and husband, her last real gifts were her blessing of love on Saturday evening before she lost her strength, she was to tell them how much she loved them and Jesus. Quiet, but deep in strength and love, she imparted a great gift to be able to love. As the poet once wrote, "She is "not gone, but away for a bit." One of the things she was to say was that one cannot live in the past, but you must live each day as it comes. It was in this she found that her Lord was not a God of the past-nor a God of the future, but the Lord of today--the now. He was to quietly, peacefully and gently lead her across the line into the presence of loved ones she was looking forward to seeing once again. And Sunday evening, October 29, 1978, she departed this earthly life. Her family and loved ones and friends will remember her as a kind and loving wife, mother, grandmother, friend and neighbor. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, May 18, 1988 LELAND R. JONES Funeral services for Leland R. Jones, 86, were conducted by Rev. Carl Cummings Tuesday, May 17, 1988 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, Ia. Mr. Jones died May 11, in Indiana where he had resided for the past two years. Burial was in the Washington Cemetery at Gravity, Ia. Leland Roe Jones, son of Elzie Jones and Villa McCormick Jones was born in Taylor County near Bedford, Ia. February 14, 1902. He grew to maturity in Taylor County where he attended the public school in the community southeast of Bedford. In 1925 he was united in marriage to Beulah Phillips and they resided on farms in Taylor County and in 1949 they moved in to Conway, Ia. where he operated a store and in 1968 they moved to Bedford and he was employed by the Severs-Stacy Hardware for several years. Four children were born to Leland and Beulah: Robert, Richard, Gerald and Barbara. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Eugene, a sister, Pauline and a grandson, James Jones. Left to cherish his memory are his children: Robert Jones and his wife Phyllis of Fillmore, Ind.; Richard and his wife Shirley of Independence, Mo.; Gerald and his wife Janett [Janet] of Bedford, Ia.; and Barbara Walston of Des Moines; 13 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; other relatives and friends. He was a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. The past two years he had resided in Fillmore, Ind., where his son Robert is the minister of the Christian Church and he attended there as long as health permitted having made a prior commitment to his Lord. His family and friends will long remember his good life so well lived. Clarinda Herald Journal, Monday, March 7, 1983 Lester Kimm died this morning Graveside services for Lester W. [illiam] Kimm, 77, of Clarinda will be at 2 pm, Wednesday at Washington Cemetery at Gravity with Rev. Howard Innis officiating. Mr. Kimm died this Monday morning at his home here in Clarinda. He was born Jan. 28, 1906, at Nodaway, the son of Jacob and Lena Kimm. He was married to Grace Anthony in 1964. Mr. Kimm had been a carpenter and worked as a hotel clerk. Besides his wife of the home he is survived by a stepdaughter, Mrs. Lee (Ona) Barnett of Clarinda and three step grandchildren. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the Nazarene church or senior citizens meal site. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 23, 1967 Darlene N. King Funeral services for Mrs. Robert (Darlene) King, 42, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, formerly of Gravity, held February 17 at State Street Shum-Novinger Funeral Home, were conducted by Rev. J. Milton Kinney. Mrs. King died February 14, 1967 at her home in Albuquerque. Her health had been failing for a number of years. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Darlene Naomi King, daughter of Floyd and Daisy Fickess, Gravity, Ia., was born February 17, 1924 at Sharpsburg, Iowa. Darlene attended the Sharpsburg and Gravity public schools, and was graduated from the Gravity High School. After her graduation from high school, she worked for a while in Kansas City, Mo., and then, on May 29, 1945, she and Robert King were united in marriage at Olathe, Kansas. To this union three children were born, one girl, Christine, and two boys, Gary and Larry. All live in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The family has lived in a number of towns and in several states where Bob has coached basketball teams. They have lived at Britt, Ia.; Algona, Ia.; Rockford, Ill.; Iowa City, Ia.; and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Bob has coached at the University of New Mexico since 1962. Darlene belonged to St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Albuquerque. Her interests were centered around her family, her husband's profession, and her church. She is survived by her husband, Bob; a daughter, Christine; two sons, Gary and Larry; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Fickess, Gravity; a brother, Francis, Gravity; and a sister, Marie Hayman, Springfield, Mo. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, June 8, 1988 EARL LESTER KING Graveside services for Earl Lester [Leslie] King, 94, were held June 3 at Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Mr. King died May 30, 1988. Earl L. [eslie] King, son of Percy King and Georgia King was born at Blockton, Ia. January 7, 1894. He was united in marriage to Mollie Stewart. To this union two children were born, Quentin E. King, of Marshall, Mo. and Robert L. King, of Belen, N.M. He was employed as a rural mail carrier out of Gravity. For 42 years he carried mail with horse and buggy. Weather did not keep him from getting the mail through. He served his country during World War I, with the Army. He was preceded in death by his brother Ernest and his wife, Mollie in 1967. Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Robert L. King, Belen, N.M., Quinten [Quintin] E. King, Marshall, Mo.; a brother, Arthur King of Blockton, Ia.; a sister Marie Boyd of Mountain Home, Ark.; eight grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. He was a member of the Gravity, Iowa Christian Church and the A.F. & A.M. He was a kind and considerate father and friend and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 6, 1967 Mrs. Earl King Funeral services for Mrs. Earl L. (Mollie) King, 74, long time resident of Gravity, were held July 1 at State Street Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, conducted by Rev. Ivo G. Randels and Rev. J. Milton Kinney. Mrs. King died at her home in Gravity June 29. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Mollie Stewart King was born Jan. 30, 1893 in Fall City, Nebr. She spent the last 45 years of her life in Gravity. She was a graduate nurse, graduating from the St. Joseph Hospital of St. Joe, Mo. and practiced her profession until her marriage. She was united in marriage to Earl Leslie King, Oct. 5, 1921. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Arthur Dillinger, pastor of the First Christian Church of St. Joe, Mo., who later served as state secretary of Christian Churches of Iowa for 26 years. To them were born two sons, Robert Lee King of Albuquerque, New Mexico and Quentin Earl King of Belen, New Mexico. She was a member of the Christian Church of Gravity and served as president of the Ladies Aid and taught Sunday school until falling health prevented. She was a member of the American Legion Aux., World War I Aux., Rural Mail CarrierÕs Aux., the Eastern Star and two local neighborhood clubs. Those who survive in addition to her husband and above named sons are: two sisters, Mrs. Hattie Jackson, La Habra, Calif., and Mrs. Vera Ostrander, Chadron, Nebr., (two brothers and two sisters preceded her in death); five grandchildren, Christine, Gary and Larry King of Albuquerque, New Mex., and Karen and David King of Belen, New Mex.; a cousin, Paul Shepherd, of Mound City, Mo.; other cousins, nephews and nieces, and friends and neighbors without number. She was a faithful and devoted wife and mother, used her nursing skills freely among her neighbors and friends, loved her grandchildren exceedingly; her church and her pastors were dear to her indeed; she loved her fellowman. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, April 6, 1988 STEPHEN EDWARD LOCK Services for Stephen Edward Lock, 39, were held March 22 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home officiated by Pastor Paul McKim. Burial was at Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Ia. Mr. Lock died March 19, 1988 at St. Francis Hospital in Maryville. Stephen Edward Lock, son of Wilma (Fudge) and Glen Lock, was born at Clarinda Municipal Hospital, Clarinda, Ia. September 16, 1948. He lived in Taylor County and grew to maturity in Gravity, Ia. where he attended the public school, graduating from Bedford Community School. He attended the Gravity Methodist Church in his early years. He was employed by Union Carbide of Maryville, Mo. for 9 1/2 years. He was preceded in death by a brother LeeRoy, a niece Maria Mae Weed, and his maternal and paternal grandparents. Left to cherish his memory are his parents Glen and Wilma Lock; his children Michelle, Michael and Matthew; his sister Glenna and husband Marven Weed of Bedford; his brothers Larry and wife Betty of Polk City, Ia., Dennis and wife Myra of Gravity, Ia.; nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends; and his dearest friend, Kathy Grebe and daughter Kelly of Maryville, Mo. He was a kind and considerate son and father. His life centered around his children. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 14, 1968 Francis Martin Rites March 8 Funeral services for Francis Martin, 56, of Gravity, were held March 8 at the east Shum-Novinger Funeral Home conducted by Rev. Ross Keyt. Mr. Martin died March 5 at the Veterans hospital in Omaha. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. The Gravity American Legion presented the flag. [MARTIN, FRANCIS] Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, March 7, 1968, [p. 1] Francis Martin, 57, burial at Gravity GRAVITY---Funeral services for Francis Martin, 57, are to be Friday in Bedford following his death at the Veterans Hospital in Omaha at 10:30 p m Tuesday. He had been ill about five years but had taken seriously ill Thursday. He was a veteran of World War II, going into service from Gravity where he had spent his entire life. He has been employed in recent years as a laborer. He was born the son of Mr and Mrs Ora Martin. He was married to Mary Adams Martin who with sons Dick and Larry of Gravity and stepdaughter Faye Arlene Warrick live in Clarinda. Donald Martin of Bedford is a brother, Mrs Marguerite Bagshaw of Reno, Nev, a sister and F C Bates is a half brother. He has seven grandchildren. Memorial services are planned to be at the Shum Novinger Funeral Home at Bedford at 2 p m Friday. The Rev Ross Keyt is in charge of the services, with burial in Gravity. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, December 6, 2000 RICHARD MARTIN Richard Martin, age 63, of Clarinda, Iowa, passed away Monday, November 27, 2000, at the Clarinda Regional Health Center. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, November 30, 2000 at St. John Lutheran Church, Clarinda, with Pastor Gary Jaeckle officiating. Burial will be at a later date in the Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. A memorial will be established. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa was in charge of arrangements. Richard was born February 3, 1937, in Gravity, Iowa, to Francis L. Martin and Mary Jane Adams Martin. Richard was united in marriage to Joyce Williams. They later divorced. He was retired from Union Local 1463, in Omaha, Nebraska, as a construction Millwright. Richard had many interests including golf, woodworking, fishing and hunting. He loved his dog Tuffy. Survivors include daughters, Lee Ann Stover and husband, Paul of Lincoln, NE, Susan Savala of New Market, Iowa, Tracy Larson of Clarinda, Robin Gray and husband, Jeff of Clarinda; sons, Brett Martin and wife, Roberta of Clarinda and David Martin of Clarinda, Iowa; 14 grandchildren, one step sister, Carolyn Hill of California and special friend, Maureen Hancock of Hepburn, Iowa. Preceding him in death were his parents, brother, Larry Martin, sister, Faye Arlene Warrick, stepbrothers, Stanley, Larry, and Phil Higgins. [MILLER, MELVENA OPAL RIDNOUR] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 18, 1959, p. 4 Mrs. J. E. Miller Rites At Sharpsburg Last rites for Mrs. J. E. Miller of Sharpsburg, who lost her life the result of a car accident on June 6, were held at the Presbyterian Church Wednesday afternoon, June 10. Rev. Eldridge McGehee and Rev. Donald Gibson officiated. Burial in Gravity cemetery. Melvena Opal Ridnour, daughter of Albert Ridnour, was born on a farm near New Market, Iowa, Oct. 30, 1929 and passed away at the age of 29 years, seven months, six days. She was united in marriage to Jesse Elvin Miller on February 21, 1947 and they established their home in the Sharpsburg vicinity. To this union three children were born: Janie Irene, Katherine Mary and Rosalie Ellen, all of the home. She was a member of the Presbyterian church of Sharpsburg and served faithfully in its activities. She was preceded in death by her mother, Mrs. Lorena Whitstine Ridnour. She is survived by her husband, Jesse Elvin Miller and children; her brothers, Kenneth Ridnour and wife Evelyn of Hepburn, Keith Ridnour and wife Patricia of Clarinda, Donald Ridnour and wife Gertrude of Farragut; Albert Ridnour, the father and brother Dean Ridnour of the home; sisters Esther and husband, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Mill, Conway, Cleo and husband, Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Anderson of Medford, Oregon. She was a kind and loving wife and mother and a most generous helpful neighbor. Those who knew her will always remember her understanding ways. [MILLION, LOLA LUCILLE MILLER] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, September 9, 1999 Lola Million Funeral services for Lola Million, age 85, formerly of Bedford, who died Sunday in Villisca, were held Thursday, September 2, 1999 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home with Pastor Albert Baker officiating. Burial was held in the Washington Cemetery. Memorials can be given in her name. Services were conducted by the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford. Lola Lucille Million was born March 17, 1914 in the Sharpsburg area, the daughter of Port Miller and Grace Pfander Miller. Lola grew up attending school in Sharpsburg, graduating in 1933. She attended various colleges obtaining her Teaching Degree. On May 9, 1936 she was united in marriage to Arnold (Red) Million in Sharpsburg. The couple lived in Shenandoah for five years then moved to Bingham and lived there until 1949 when they moved to the farm northwest of Bedford. She taught school in 1949 at Liberty Country Schools south of Bedford. Later she taught in Ross Center and Crum, returning to Sharpsburg where she taught from 1955 to the schools closing in 1958. She then came to Bedford where she taught until the late 1960's. She then taught in Afton until her retirement in 1972. In 1975 she and Red moved to Villisca where she resided until her death. Lola was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bedford. Lola loved the farm and was always Red's right hand woman. She would go right to the farm after she had been teaching all day to help him out. She enjoyed the outdoors, spending much time raising livestock, gardening and canning. She was passionate about deer hunting and catfishing and also enjoyed riding horses when she was younger. She is survived by her husband Red of Villisca; her son, Bobby Million and wife Margaret of Sierra Vista, Arizona; a daughter, Barbara Russell of Bedford; four brothers, Leo Miller and wife Naomi of Morris, Minnesota; Marvin Miller and wife Veda of Lenox; Edwin Miller and wife Marlene of Bedford; and Howard Miller and wife Darlene of Savannah, Missouri; one sister-in-law, Mary Lou Miller of Lenox; six grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. Preceding her in death are her parents, Port and Grace; two brothers, Raymond and Elvin; a son-in-law, Lonnie Russell and one great grandchild Erica. [Moore, Ira Alvin "Henny", Jr.] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, November 29 1995 Ira Alvin (Henny) Moore, 83 of Nebraska City, Neb., formerly of the Gravity-New Market area, died November 23, 1995. Services were held Tuesday, Nov. 28 at Gude Mortuary in Nebraska City. Burial was at Washington Cemetery in Gravity. He was born June 11, 1912 in Gravity, Iowa to Ira Alvin Moore, Sr. and Cenia Riley. He married Opal Beauchamp in Bedford in l931. He worked for the Nebraska City Utilities for 26 years. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Nebraska City and the Western Star Masonic Lodge #2. He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years on September 14, 1995; son-in-law, Leonard Bartell, grandson, Roger Moore; great grandson, Christopher Priest; and 10 brothers and sisters. He is survived by children: Richard Moore and wife Peggy, Broomfield, Colo.; Eleanor Boyt and husband Tom, Denver, Colo.; Laurene Bartell, Denver, Colo.; Russell Moore and wife Phyllis of Northglen, Colo.; Judy Zelenda and husband Jerry, Schuyler, Neb.; Ruth Dalton and husband Carl, Nebraska City, Neb.; 15 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, October 18, 1995 OPAL B. MOORE Services for Opal B. Moore, 81, of Elms Haven Nursing Home in Thornton, Colorado, were held on Wednesday, September 20, at the Gude Mortuary chapel with Rev. Norman Morris officiating. Mrs. Moore, who was born on March 5, 1914, in Page County, Iowa, the daughter of Charles N. and Retta L. (Coy) Beauchamp, died September 14, 1995, in Thornton, Colorado. She was married in Bedford, Iowa, in 1931 to Ira Alvin Moore, Jr. and precedes him in death. She is also survived by her children, Richard Moore and wife Peggy of Broomfield, Colorado; Eleanor and husband Tom Boyt of Denver, Colorado; Laurene Bartell of Denver; Russell Moore and wife Phyllis of North Glen, Colorado; Judy Zelenda and husband Jerry of Schuyler, Ruth Dalton and husband Carl of Nebraska City; 15 grandchildren, several great and great-great grandchildren and sister, Maxine Scheideman of Grand Junction, Colorado. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Dale and Beryl Beauchamp and Lawrence Beauchamp. A housewife and former resident of Nebraska City, Opal was a member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, April 9, 1964, [p. 1] Margaret Morris, 96, once lived in Gravity, Clarinda Mrs. Margaret Morris, 96, former Gravity and Clarinda resident, died at Pasadena, Tex, where she had been resident since moving from here about 30 years ago. Her final illness developed into pneumonia. Mrs Morris lived with her son, Dale, after moving south until his death a few years ago. Burial was to be in Texas at side of the son. Among the survivors are two granddaughters and a grandson. Mrs. W H Barrager of Clarinda and Mrs Mark Young of Gravity are nieces. [MORRIS, MARGARET "MAGGIE" NEVILLE] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 20, 1972 Clifford Pershin Rites July 14 Funeral services for Clifford Elbert Pershin, 56, of Conway were held July 14 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford conducted by Pastor Perry Cozadd. Mr. Pershin died July 11, 1972. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Clifford Elbert Pershin, son of Forest and Audrey Pershin, was born March 9, 1916 in Taylor County. He was united in marriage to Maxine Dugan, November 1, 1937. To this union three children were born: a daughter, (Mildred) Mrs. Ed Johnson of Gravity, son, Clifford, of Conway, and Gary of the home. He is survived by his wife; daughter and two sons; one son-in-law, Edward; one daughter-in-law, Bonnie; five grandchildren, Roy, Sandra, Cathy, Patty and Roger Johnson; one sister, (Lela) Mrs. Vincent Dukes, of Ellston; three brothers, Lee of Glendora, California, Mack of Conway and Dale; one brother-in-law, Vincent, and one sister- in-law, Dorothy; many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 31, 1956, p. 7 O. E. Posten, Gravity, Died Thurs., May 24 Orville E. [rnest] Posten of Gravity died unexpectedly shortly after being admitted to St. Francis hospital, Maryville, Thursday, May 24. He had been sick only a few weeks. Funeral services were held at the Christian church in Gravity, Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Clyde Kelly, pastor of the church. Burial in Washington cemetery at Gravity. Orville E. Posten, youngest son of Earnest and Mary Posten, was born April 14, 1914 in Taylor County, near Gravity and died at the age of 42 years, one month, 10 days. He attended both grade school and high school in Gravity. When a young boy, he united with the Christian church. Most of his life was spent farming until about two years ago. On Feb. 17, 1940, he was married to Margaret Seid. To them two sons were born, Michael 13 and Steven 3. He is survived by his wife, two sons; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E. M. Posten; one sister, Cleo, Mrs. Leslie Roush; one brother, Lester Posten, all of Gravity. ____________________ Attend Posten Rites Out-of-town relatives and friends attending the last rites for Orville Posten in Gravity Sunday included Mrs. Iva Brown, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Applegate, Mrs. Harley Palmer and daughter, Peru, Nebr; Mr. and Mrs. P. A. Youngscap, Lincoln, Nebr.; Weble Youngscap, Hickman, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Briggs, Malvern, Iowa; Mrs. John Snyder, Nebraska City, Nebr.; Mrs. Dan Lambert and daughter, Mrs. Donald Stiers, Nemaha, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Trumble, Eagle, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Posten, Creston, Mrs. Alyene Bush and Eddie Joe, Carbon; Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Posten, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Sickler, Corning; Lawrence Bush, Clearfield; Charlie Posten, Mrs. Hazel Horton, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Posten, Villisca; Mrs. Blanche Randall, Mrs. Maude Posten, Mrs. Pearl McCoy, Clarinda; Harry Cochran, Sharpsburg; Bob Huss, Riverside, Calif.; Mr. and Mrs. Will Chandler, Arlington, Va. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 22, 1977 Roland Frank Reed Last Rites Held December 20 Funeral services for Roland Frank Reed, 64, of Gravity were held December 20 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home conducted by Rev. C. Ray McCain and Pastor Mel Smith. Mr. Reed died December 16, 1977 in Clarinda Municipal Hospital after an extended illness. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Ia. Roland Frank Reed, son of Lewis E. [arly] Reed and Neva Ashmore Reed, was born on January 16, 1913. Roland was born on a farm east of Hepburn, Iowa in the Valley Township vicinity, where he attended grade school. He was graduated from the Clarinda High School. On May 26, 1963 Roland was united in marriage to Dorothy Borwig at Creston, Iowa and they lived in the Bedford community. To this union three children were born, two sons and one daughter. He farmed most of his life and was employed by the Iowa Parcel Service prior to his death. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Bedford and was a former Sheriff's Posse member. Roland was preceded in death by his father, Lewis E. [arly] Reed. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Dorothy; three children, Roland Frank Jr., James Arthur, and Donna Marie; four step-children, Mrs. Hermanetta Carson, Douglas, Lawrence and Marcella Borwig; three grandchildren, Tammy Lynn, Brian Jason Carson, and Michelle Lu Borwig; his mother, Mrs. Neva Ashmore Reed; four sisters, Helen Reed of Papua, New Guinea, Mrs. Mildred Enerson of Minden, Nebr., Mrs. Ruth Pratt of New Market, and Mrs. Dorothy Motsinger of Clarinda; one brother, James Keith Reed of Clarinda; several nieces and nephews and other relatives He was a kind and considerate husband, father, grandfather and friend and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 26, 1994, p. 8 CLEO M. ROUSH Funeral services for Cleo M. Roush were held Monday, Jan. 17, 1994 at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. Steve Peters officiating. Rebekah honors were conducted by the Golden Rule Lodge No. 134. Burial was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Cleo Marie Roush, 86, died Thursday, Jan. 13, 1994 at the Bedford Manor Nursing Home where she had resided since 1984. She was born near Gravity, Iowa on October 4, 1907 in Taylor County, the oldest child of Ernest and Mary Belle Bush Posten. On October 6, 1930 she was married to Leslie Francis Roush, who preceded her in death on April 13, 1971. To this union five children were born: Darrell Dean, Donna Jean, Carrell, Deloris, and Gerald called "Jerry." Cleo and Leslie lived and farmed in the Bedford, New Market, and Gravity areas. Following her husband's death, Cleo and Darrell moved to Gravity, where she enjoyed her later years attending church, lodge and club. She enjoyed playing Bingo with her friends and received much pleasure working with her flowers. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and oldest child, Darrell Dean Roush on February 8, 1992, and two brothers, Lester and Orville, both of Gravity. Left to cherish her memory are her children: Donna Jean and husband Curtis Wilson of Creston, Iowa, Carrell of Gravity, Deloris Edwards of Rogers, Ark., and Jerry and wife Linda Roush of Liberty, Mo.; grandchildren, Douglas, Diane, and David Wilson, Debbie, Michael, Mindy and Joleen Roush, and Marc Roush; 11 great grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Wilma Falkner of Maitland, Fla. and Mary Mae Posten of Gravity; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends. She was a member of the Gravity Christian Church and the Golden Rule Rebekah Lodge #1134 of Bedford. She was a loving, kind, and considerate daughter, wife, mother and friend and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, February 19, 1992 DARRELL ROUSH Funeral services for Darrell Roush were held Wednesday, Feb. 12, 1992 at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. Carl Cummings officiating. Burial was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Darrell Dean Roush, oldest son of Leslie and Cleo Posten Roush, was born at his grandparents, Ernest and Mary Posten's home in rural Taylor County near Gravity, Iowa on January 26, 1931 and departed this life February 8, 1992 at the Mercy Hospital, Corning, Iowa at the age of 61 years and 12 days, following a brief illness of two heart attacks. He lived on farms in Taylor County near Gravity and New Market, Iowa, and grew to maturity in Washington Township near Gravity, where he attended country school and graduated from Gravity High School in 1949. At an early age he acquired the name of "Red", due to his bright red hair, inherited from the Roush ancestors. He was not of an athletic build, but was very active in high school baseball. Through his life he continued to attend the games and enjoyed listening to them on radio and discussing the games with friends. Darrell loved farming and raising livestock. He farmed for himself for several years, although it aggravated his asthmatic problems. Following his father's death, he and his mother moved to Gravity, where he continued to live after his mother entered Bedford Manor Nursing Home in 1984. He continued being a devoted son, visiting her almost daily. He was preceded in death by his father, Leslie, on April 13, 1971. Left to cherish his memory are his mother Cleo Roush of Bedford Manor Nursing Home, sister Donna Jean Wilson and husband Curtis of Creston, Iowa, brother Carrell Roush of Gravity, sister Deloris Edwards of Rogers Ark., brother Gerald "Jerry" Roush and wife Linda of Liberty, Mo., several nieces and nephews: Douglas and Monica Wilson and sons Kyle and Kory of Kent, Iowa, Diane and Greg Drake and girls Chanelle and Chandra of Mt. Ayr, Iowa; David and Sandra Wilson and sons Drew and Brett of Red Oak, Iowa, Michael and Sheila Roush, Brandon and Haley of Farragut, Iowa, Debra and Michael Pope, Matt, Brad, and Chelsie of Clarinda, Iowa, Mindy Roush of Denver, Colo., Joleen Roush of Gravity, Iowa, Marc Roush of Liberty, Mo. Darrell was a member of the Gravity Christian church and the Gravity Fire Department. He was a kind and considerate son, brother, uncle, and friend, never failing to greet everyone. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 22, 1971, p. 6 Leslie Roush, 67 Rites April 16 Funeral services for Leslie Francis Roush, 67, lifetime Taylor County resident, were held April 16 at the Gravity Christian Church with Rev. Perry Cozadd officiating. Mr. Roush died at St. Francis Hospital, Maryville, Mo., Apr. 13, 1971 Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Leslie Francis Roush, son of William Oscar and Cora Maye Roush was born September 14, 1903 on a farm near New Market, Iowa. He was a member of the Gravity Christian Church. He spent his whole life in Taylor County farming. Since 1942 he has farmed north of Gravity where he had just retired. On October 6. 1930 he was united in marriage to Cleo Marie Posten. To this union five children were born, three sons and two daughters. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Loyd. He is survived by his wife Cleo of Gravity; children, Darrell Dean of the home; Donna Wilson, Blockton; Carrell of Gravity; Deloris Smith of Bedford; Jerry of Liberty, Mo.; seven grand-children, two sisters, Alta Cline of Downers Grove, 111., and Wilma Faulkner of Panama City, Fla. He was a loving husband, father, good neighbor, friend and always cherished his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, March 13, 1991 MARY MAE SEALS Mrs. Mary Mae Seals, 58, Bedford, died Wednesday morning, March 6, 1991 at Clarinda Municipal Hospital where she had been admitted the day before. She was born May 13, 1932, at Burlington Junction, Mo., the daughter of Lee and Ruth Hamilton Ellison. On July 23, 1953 she was married to Raymond Seals who preceded her in death March 31, 1989. Surviving children are: Mrs. James (Vickie) Teague, Lenox; Mrs. Charles (Sherri) Burson, Clinton, Mo., Mrs. Bill (Deborah) Waggoner, Clarinda; Mrs. Rick (Becky) Brewer, Bedford; Mrs. Richard (Pam) Grace, Bigelow, Mo.; Jimmy Ray Seals, Bedford; Mrs. Ronald (Kathy) Waggoner, Bedford; Carl Brandon, Leland Brandon, her mother, Ruth Alexander, Elmo, Mo.; brothers and sisters: Eunice Kirk, Elmo, Mo., Ann Raines, Shenandoah, Mike Ellison, Burlington Junction, Mo., Earl Ellison, Elmo, Mo., Maxine Ellison. She was preceded in death by daughter Ruth Renee, brother Hubert Ellison and two granddaughters, Valerie Joy and Amy Diane. Graveside services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 9 at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, with Rev. Ted DeHass officiating. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, April 5, 1989 RAYMOND SYLVESTER SEALS Services for Raymond Sylvester Seals, 79, were held April 3. Mr. Seals died March 30, 1989 as the result of a fire at the home of his daughter in Gravity, Iowa. Graveside services were held Monday at 1 p.m. at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity followed by a service at 1:30 p.m. at the Nazarene Church in Gravity with Rev. James Hickman of the Gravity Nazarene Church and Rev. Ted DeHass of the Bedford Baptist Church officiating. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home of Clarinda was in charge of arrangements. Raymond Sylvester Seals was born September 15, 1909 at Maryville, Mo. Parents were James and Cora (Ulmer) Seals. He was married to Mary Mae Ellison on July 23, 1953. He was a veteran and had served in the Army. He worked as a truck driver. Survivors include his wife Mary; daughters Mrs. Charles (Sherri) Burson of Burlington Jct., Mo., Mrs. James (Vickie) Teague of Gravity, Iowa, Mrs. Bill (Deborah) Waggoner of Gravity, Iowa, Mrs. Rick (Becky) Brewer of Kansas City, Mo., Mrs. Ronald (Kathy) Waggoner of Bedford, Mrs. Richard (Pam) Grace of Missouri, and a son Jimmy Ray Seals of Bedford; 17 grandchildren; three sisters, Eva White of Burlington Jct., Mo., Treva Funderburk of Hopkins, Mo., and Margaret Biggs of Bigelow, Mo. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Bertha and one brother, Earl and infant daughter Ruth and one granddaughter, Amy. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 19, 1985 Funeral services for Marie Waggoner, 59, of Gravity were held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Clarinda Church of God, with Rev. Eddie Fidler officiating. Mrs. Waggoner died Dec. 14, 1985 at noon at her home in Gravity after a lengthy illness. She was born May 24, 1926 at Burlington Junction, Mo., the daughter of John Franklin and Bessie Ethel Stevens Gardner. She was married to Wm. Henry Waggoner, who preceded her in death. She is survived by four children, William Waggoner of Gravity, Janice Elaine Hoyt, Hopeville, Ia., Judy Marie Wardlow, Clarinda, and Ronald Eugene Waggoner, Bedford. Brothers are Jesse Lee Gardner, Bagley, Ia., and John W. Gardner, Malvern, Ia. Sisters are Lois Adams and Alice Manchester, Clarinda, Violet Keeler, Big Lake, Mo., and Helen Jean Bryant, San Francisco, Ca. She also helped two young couples after their marriage, Gary and Terva Moss and Dennis and Kathy Moss of Bedford. There are 13 grandchildren. Burial was at Washington Cemetery at Gravity. Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, April 6, 1989 Valerie Waggoner The infant daughter of William and Deborah (Seals) Waggoner of Gravity died early Wednesday morning at the Clarinda Municipal Hospital. She was born Oct. 27, 1988 in Clarinda. At present time, they are staying in the Russ Jerome home in Gravity, because their home was totally destroyed by a fire on March 31,1988. Survivors include her parents; a brother, William Waggoner Jr, and Dixie Jean Waggoner of the home. Grandparents are Mary Mae Seals of Bedford and Raymond Teague of Bedford. Services will be held at the Nazarene Church in Gravity at 10:30 a.m. Friday, with burial in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials may be directed to the family. Walker-Merrick is in charge of arrangements. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 18, 1968, p. 5 Arthur C. Weaver Rites In Gravity Funeral services for Arthur C. [lement] Weaver, 72, long time Gravity resident, held July 12 at the Gravity Methodist Church, were conducted by Rev. Richard Viney. Mr. Weaver died at Redman Nursing Home in Omaha July 9 following a four-year illness. Both military and Masonic rites were conducted at the Gravity Cemetery. He was the son of the late Dave and Hannah Johnson Weaver, and was born at Shambaugh, Ia. He was a funeral director and embalmer for 20 years in Omaha, Nebr. Mr. Weaver was employed at the Mental Health Institute in Clarinda from 1956 to 1964. He was a veteran of World War I and he was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in action in that conflict. He was a member of the Gravity Methodist Church, belonged to the Moore-Rutledge American Legion Post No. 578 at Gravity and was a member of the Sunlight Lodge No. 459, AF & AM in Gravity. He is survived by his wife, the former Gladys Carter of New Market; a brother, Paul Weaver of Davenport; and a sister, Mrs. Fred (Lois) Buch of Clarinda. [WEAVER, ARTHUR CLEMENT] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 25, 1968, p. 7 Attend Weaver Services in Gravity July 12 Those friends and relatives from out-of-town who attended the funeral of Arthur C. Weaver in Gravity were: Mr. and Mrs. Norval Pella, Mrs. Grace Glade, and Mrs. Fred Vaughn of Omaha, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Donald Pella of San Diego, Calif.; Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Schulz of Yutan, Nebr.; James Clark of Waterloo, Nebr. Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Gestrine of Osceola, Nebr.; Lewis Estes and son of St. Joseph, Mo.; Mrs. Lura Blackwell, Mrs. Ted Miller, Mrs. Adalyn Sanderson and William Beard of Clarinda. Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, October 23, 1975 Services for Gladys Weaver Mrs Arthur (Gladys) Weaver of Gravity died Thursday morning at Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Services will be at Walker Funeral Home Monday at 10:30 am. Rev J Lewis Hunter will be in charge. Burial will be in the Gravity cemetery. She was formerly Gladys Pella, and has a brother, Norval, living in Texas. Mrs Marian Beard and mother of Clarinda had gone to her home to visit and found Mrs Weaver seriously ill from a heart attack. Mr and Mrs Weaver were employed at MHI in Clarinda prior to his death. [WILSON, OPAL MELODY HEATHERINGTON] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, March 28, 1990 OPAL MELODY WILSON Services for Opal Melody Wilson, 84, were held at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, officiated by Rev. Carl Holdsworth with burial at Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Mrs. Wilson died March 21, 1990 at Mercy Hospital in Corning, Iowa. Opal Melody Wilson, daughter of William Heatherington and Elizabeth Beardsley was born at Taylor County, Iowa October 11, 1905. She lived most of her life in Taylor County. She was united in marriage to Vernon Wilson, who is deceased. To this union five children were born: Harold [Harrell], Edna Robertson, Delores Hiatt, Erma Bolinger, Wilma Richardson. Her occupation was a kitchen helper. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and a son Harold [Harrell]; four brothers and two sisters. Left to cherish her memory are four daughters, Edna Robertson, Delores Hiatt, Erma Bolinger, Wilma Richardson; 27 grandchildren; 55 great grandchildren; seven great great grandchildren; and one sister. She was a member of the Christian Church. She was a kind and considerate mother and grandmother and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 13, 1957, p. 7 Vernon Wilson Dies Vernon Harrell Wilson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Wilson, was born April 16, 1900 near Villisca, Iowa, and died at his home near Gravity June 3, 1957. He had spent most of his life in Iowa. He was married to Opal Heatherington on July 6, 1921. To this union were born five children: Mrs. Edna Robertson of Medford, Minn.; Delores Hiatt of New Market; Erma Bollinger of Gravity; Wilma at home; one son died in 1954. He also leaves his wife, twenty grandchildren; one brother, Carl Wilson of Raymond, Wash.; four sisters, Lillie Wagaman of Liden, Iowa; Edna Holffier of Garden, Calif.; Ethel McCutchen of Long Beach, Calif. and Maude Anderson of Los Angeles, Calif. |