Obituaries |
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com |
[BALDWIN, NATHAN DELL] Clarinda Journal, Friday, February 21, 1908, p. 7 Fire in a livery stable at Gravity, Sunday morning, burned to death N. [athan] D.[ell] Baldwin, one of the stable's proprietors and William Sawvel, a driver, was badly burned. Fifteen horses also burned to death. [BALDWIN, NATHAN DELL] Tarkio Avalanche (Tarkio, Missouri), Thursday, February 24, 1994 Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 22, 1994, at the United Methodist Church in Rock Port, Missouri, for Eugene Richard Bunn of Rock Port. Pastor Rick Adams officiated. Interment was made in Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa, at 2 p.m. on February 22 under the direction of Chamberlain Funeral Home of Rock Port. Eugene Richard Bunn, age 76, passed away at Nebraska Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, on Friday, February 18, 1994. He was born in Hot Springs, New Mexico, on February 16, 1918, the only child of Mona (Hoskinson) and Herman Bunn. Gene was still an infant when his father died and was raised by his mother and aunt in the beautiful mountains of Colorado. Gene attended elementary school in Grand Junction and Steamboat Springs, Colorado, graduating from Denver, Colorado, West High School in 1936. He worked in construction and assisted with his mother's small guest ranch near Craig, Colorado, until entering the U.S. Navy as an apprentice seaman in l938. In 1944, Gene met Melva Davis in Boston, Massachusetts. They were married on January 6,1945, in Key West, Florida. Fourteen of Gene's 20 years in the service were spent in foreign or sea duty. He served aboard the U.S.S. Saratoga during some of the fiercest combat in the Pacific Theatre of World War II. Having retired in 1959 with the rank of Lieutenant Commander, Gene had a distinguished record of service to his country and received many commendations and medals during those years. These include: the Navy Good Conduct Medal with One Star, China Service Medal, American Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, the Victory Medal, WWII Navy Occupations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Philippine Liberation Medal. Following retirement from the Navy in 1959, Gene spent the next 35 years in construction management, public administration, and farm management. The Bunn family moved to Rock Port in 1964 when he became Superintendent of the Board of Public Works. After retirement from that position, Gene served the city as Mayor for three terms from 1983 to 1989. Gene was a member of the Taylor Masonic Lodge in Bedford, Iowa. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church and the Ralph Greer American Legion Post #49, both in Rock Port. Reading and nature studies ranked high among his many and varied interests. Survivors are: Gene's wife of 49 years, Melva, of the home in Rock Port; two sons, Richard and Randy, both of Tulsa, Oklahoma; a granddaughter, Leigh Bunn Goodson, Hill City, Kansas; and a grandson, Greg Bunn, Stillwater, Oklahoma. A Gene Bunn Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established. Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 12, 1907, p. 4 Last Roll Call Answered William M. Burch, one of Gravity's highly respected citizens and a veteran of the Civil War answered the last roll call and went to meet the Great Captain on Tuesday September 10 [Monday, September 9th]. The funeral is being held at the home in Gravity, at 10 o'clock today conducted by Rev. A. I. Jones of Bedford. Interment at Gravity cemetery. The deceased was born in Indiana September 28, 1833 and during the greater part of his life resided in that state. On February 21 [5], 1856 he was married to Miss Nancy E. [lizabeth] Woody. To this union were born eleven children, ten of whom together with his wife survive him. Only two of the children reside in Taylor County, but all are expected to be present at the funeral with the possible exception of Jacob who is in Butte City, Idaho, and who could not be reached with a message in time. Mr. Burch has lived in Taylor County only since April. He left Indiana in 1882 and since that time has lived in Missouri, Illinois and Page County, Iowa. At the beginning of the war, Mr. Burch was among the first to answer the call of the president and during the bloody years of the war he faithfully followed the flag wherever duty called him. As a man as well as a soldier he was always faithful and true. He was a neighbor who all respected, a good father and a loving husband. The bereaved wife and sorrowing children in this hour of their affliction have the sincere sympathy of all. Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 12, 1907, p. 4 Mr. Wm. Burch died at his home in the east part of town Monday, Sept. 9, after a serious illness of about three weeks. [BURCH, WILLIAM MARION] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 19, 1907, p. 4 William Marion Burch Dead The deceased was born in Bloomfield, Ind., Sept. 28, 1833 and died suddenly from dropsy of the heart at his home at Gravity September 9, 1907. On February 5, 1857, he was united in marriage to Nancy E. [lizabeth] Woody and to them eleven children were born, seven boys and four girls, all of whom, with the exception of Martin Emerson, who died in infancy, are still living. When the call to arms came in the early '60s he united with the 29th Ind. Vol. and served his country well. In 1882 he moved to Missouri and last spring he moved from Maryville to Gravity where he has since lived. The children living are Hiram P., [hillip] St. Joe; Jas. H. [enry]; Ashmore, Ill.; Jacob M., Butte, Mont.; Vincent E., St. Joe; John W. [illiam], Gravity; Mary E. Harbinson, Biggsville, Ill.; Omea S. [elina] Fort, Concord, Okl.; Matilda Milbern [Milbourne], St. Joe; Ida Miller, Bedford. All but Jacob were present at the funeral. Aside from these children he leaves a brother, Joel M., and a sister Adelia Hosteter, of Dayton, Ohio, and a heart broken wife to mourn his death. He was also the grandfather of 50 children, 42 of whom still are living. The funeral was held Thursday morning at 10 o'clock at the Christian church at Gravity, conducted by Rev. A. I. Jones of this city, and the remains were laid to rest in the Gravity cemetery. The bereaved family have the sympathy of all. [BURCH, WILLIAM MARION] [BURCH, WILLIAM MARION] [BURCH, WILLIAM MARION] [BORG, AUGUSTA FREDERIKA EKBORN] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, February 27, 1908, p. 5 Obituary – Augusta Frederic[a] Ekeborn was born at Vastina, Sweden, August 21, 1828; was united in marriage to Andrew P. [eter] Borg February 24, 18[?]. to this union was born seven children, five sons and two daughters, their names being Anna, Charles, August, Adolph, David, Augusta and William, Anna and Adolph having preceded their mother to the better world. Her other daughter, Mrs. Augusta Ross, has been with her parents since last June, and has given them every attention that a faithful daughter could possibly give. Mr. and Mrs. Borg emigrated to America from Sweden in 1866 and settled in Galesburg, Ill., where they lived nine years, when they moved to Taylor County, Ia., and have since that time lived in the neighborhood near their present home, southwest of Gravity three miles. Mrs. Borg was a member of the Episcopal church of Galesburg, Ill., and has always held to that faith, although for a number of years she has not been permitted to attend divine service on account of age and ill health. The funeral services were conducted at the residence by W. L. Dunlavy, using as a text Rev. 14:13, after which the remains were laid to rest in the Gravity cemetery. Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, June 23, 1910, [p. 1] Seymour Carpenter Seymour Carpenter an old resident of the county, living near Gravity, died from paralysis Sunday, June 12. He lacked but a few days of being 83 years old and had but recently been bereaved of his wife, her death occurring March 5. Five sons and three daughters survive him, one daughter, Mrs. E. W. Perdew of Gravity being the only child residing in the county. Two sons, George and Lyman, are in Alaska, John at Woodward, Okla., Ed and Walter at Laredo, Mo., and Mrs. J. W. Bowers and Mrs. Charles Walrath at St. Joe, Mo. The two daughters from St. Joseph and one of the sons from Laredo, Mo., were the only children outside the county who were able to come home. The funeral services were held at the home Tuesday after which the body was laid to rest in the Gravity cemetery. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 10, 1953, [p. 1] Harold Dowell Of Gravity Died Tuesday Harold Dowell, 51, Gravity, was found dead in his home Tuesday afternoon. County Coroner Earl Stone, called to the scene, pronounced death due to a bullet wound in the head, fired from a 45 found near the body. Dowell, in poor health for some time, left the employ of the State Savings Bank some years ago and since then had been a partner in the Paul Morris grocery at Gravity. His widow survives. Funeral services will be held at the Methodist church in Gravity at 2 o'clock, Friday afternoon, Dec. 11, conducted by Rev. Robt. M. Peters of Bedford. Burial in Gravity cemetery. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 2, 1936, p. 4 Emanuel Funeral Is Held In Gravity Funeral services for H. H. Emmanuel [Emanuel], 55, who died at his home in Aurora, Colo., last week, were held Saturday afternoon, June 27, in Gravity at the home of Mrs. Abbie Reed, conducted by Rev. B. F. Hall. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery. Harry Henderson Emanuel, son of John and Letta Lowe Emanuel was born in Boulder, Colo., Feb. 4, 1881. He spent most of his boyhood days in Madison and Jasper counties, Iowa, coming to Taylor County at the age of 17 years. He was married to Nettie Gartrell Dec. 7, 1904. To this union were born two children, Herman, who died in infancy and Margaret, who with her husband reside at the home of her father. He was an active member of the Order of Odd Fellows, which order of Clarinda assisted in the burial ceremony. Mr. Emanuel resided in and near Gravity for a number of years. He was active in the Christian church until his health failed. He, with his family, moved to Aurora in 1926 and has since resided there. He had been in failing health for the last five years, although he had been able and anxious to participate in the community life, being city clerk, deputy county clerk, and deputy county treasurer at the time of his death. He leaves to mourn his departure his wife, Nettie Gartrell Emanuel, who is now in very poor health; his daughter, Margaret, and her husband, Willis V. Barker. [EMANUEL, HARRY HENDERSON] Clarinda Herald Journal, Monday, June 29, 1936, p. 6 H. H. Emanual Harry Henderson Emanual [Emanuel], son of John and Letta Lowe Emanual [Emanuel], was born in Boulder, Colo., February 4, 1881, and died in Aurora, Colo., June 23, 1936, at the age of 55 years, 4 months and 19 days. He spent most of his boyhood days in Madison and Jasper counties, Iowa coming to Taylor County at the age of 17 years. He was united in marriage with Nettie Gartrell December 7, 1904. To this union were born two children, Herman, who died in infancy, and Margaret, who with her husband, resides at the home of her father. He was an active member of the Order of Odd Fellows, which order of Clarinda assisted in the burial ceremony. Mr. Emanuel resided in and near Gravity for a number of years. He was active in the Christian church until his health failed. He, with his family, moved to Aurora in 1926 and has since resided there. He had been in failing health for the last five years, although he had been able and anxious to participate in the community life, being city clerk, deputy county clerk, and deputy county treasurer at the time of his death. He leaves to mourn his departure his wife, Nettie Gartrell Emanuel, who is now in very poor health; his daughter, Margaret, and her husband, Willis V. Barker, and many other relatives and hosts of friends wherever he was known. Funeral service was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Reed, at Gravity, Saturday, June 27, at 2 p. m., with Rev. B. F. Hall in charge. Pallbearers were J. E. Clark, C. R. Morgan, F. R. Dunkin, Chas. Alvord, Paul Morris; and Walter Brookman. Interment in Gravity cemetery with the Odd Fellows in charge of the service. The following members of the Order from Clarinda were present: J. S. Hitchcock, Earl Newton, H. Clugey, W. H. Burwell, W. O. Anderson, J. C. Morrison, Oscar Patton, B. Hays, Stanley Pfander, A. G. Corrick and O. W. Gorrell. [ESTLE, SARAH CATHERINE "KATE" RICHARDSON] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 22, 1945, p. 5 Obituary – Mrs. Kate Estle Sarah Catherine Richardson, daughter of Silas and Catherine Richardson, was born at Sigourney, Iowa, September 5, 1850, and died at her home in Gravity, March 13, at the age of 94 years, 6 months and 8 days. She was married to William B. Estle October 21, 1875 at Sigourney, Iowa, and started house keeping on the farm known as the W. B. Estle farm, 5 miles north of Gravity. No children were born to this union, however, two nieces were reared from childhood in the home: Katie Richardson White, of Lincoln, Nebr.; and Catherine Richardson Shields of Hastings, Nebr. They left the farm in the year 1900 and spent almost a year in California. Since that time they have made their home in Gravity. "Aunt Kate," as she was called by everyone who knew her, was a devoted wife and was widely known for her kindness and generosity, and of her thoughtfulness of others. She professed her faith in Christ at an early age and continued her work in the church, and for the good of the community and the loved ones around her, until failing health no longer permitted her to participate in these activities. Mr. Estle died May 17, 1932. She leaves one brother, Riley Richardson of Bedford, he being the only surviving member of the family of thirteen children. New Market Herald, Thursday, May 26, 1932, [p. 1] Old Settler Passes On Will Estle, 88, of Gravity, died at his home Tuesday last week after having been in failing health for several weeks. Funeral services will be held this afternoon. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 24, 1960, p. 7 Obituary – J. A. Gaebler John, son of Frederick and Wilhelmina Gaebler, was born at Herman, Mo., August 16, 1871, and died at Chillicothe City Hospital, Chillicothe, Mo., November 7, 1960 at the age of 89 years, two months, 22 days. On November 24, 1898 he was united in marriage to Pauline Hahn and to this union were born two daughters, Mrs. Leona L. [ouise] Rearden of Tina, Mo., and Laura E. [mma] Gaebler of Chillicothe. In 1910 the family moved from Swiss, Mo., to Omaha, living there one year. In 1911 they located in Gravity, where he was in the implement business for 40 years. In 1957 he moved to Tina, Mo., to live with his daughter. On January 1, 1959 he entered Chillicothe City hospital and had been a patient there since. His wife preceded him in death on April 16, 1947. He leaves to mourn his death, besides his two daughters, one grandson, Charles Richard Rearden; three brothers and two sisters; Franklin Gaebler of Washington, Mo.; Walter Gaebler of Winside, Nebr.; William Gaebler of Omaha; Anna Kemper and Ida Brandhorst of Herman, Mo. He was a member of the Evangelical Lutheran church at Herman, Mo. He was also a member of Sunlight Lodge No. 459 A. F. & A. M. of Gravity and of the Order of the Eastern Star at Gravity. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, July 26, 1995 LAURA E. GAEBLER Laura Emma Gaebler, age 89, of Chillicothe, died Saturday, July 15, 1995 at Hedrick Medical Center in Chillicothe. She was born September 5, 1905, in Hermann, Missouri, the daughter of John August and Pauline (Hahn) Gaebler. Miss Gaebler was a retired teacher. She taught in Gravity, Iowa from 1929 to 1958 and at Malta Bend, Missouri for three years. She then moved to Chillicothe, where she taught at Chillicothe High School from 1960 to 1974. She was a member and Sunday school teacher of the First Christian Church in Chillicothe. She was also a past member of the Order of Eastern Star, a Past Matron and a Past White Shrine member. She also held membership in the Business and Professional Women's Club and the AAUW in Chillicothe. She was a member of the Retired Teachers Association. Following her retirement, she served as a volunteer math tutor and a volunteer at the Livingston County Library. She is survived by a niece-in-law, Elaine Rearden of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Services were held July 17, 1995 at the Lindley Funeral Home in Chillicothe, Missouri. Burial was in Washington Township Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Arrangements under the direction of the Lindley Funeral Home in Chillicothe, Missouri. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 24, 1947 Mrs J. A. Gaebler, Obituary Pauline, daughter of Charles and Emma Hahn, was born at Herman, Missouri March 8, 1880, and passed away at Gravity, Iowa April 16, 1947, aged 67 years, 1 month and 8 days, On November 24,1898, she was united in marriage to John A.[ugust] Gaebler and to this union were born two daughters, Mrs Leona L. Rearden of Tina, Missouri and Laura E. [mma] Gaebler of Gravity, Iowa. In 1910 the family moved from Swiss, Missouri to Omaha, Nebraska, living there one year and in 1911 located in Gravity, Iowa where they have resided ever since. She leaves to mourn her death besides her husband and two daughters, one grandson, Charles Richard Rearden, two brothers and four sisters: Henry Hahn of Union, Mo.; John Hahn of Swiss, Mo.; Bertha Durand and Minnie Persinger of St. Louis, Mo.; Ida Stephan and Emma Schnider of Hermann, Mo.; and a host of relatives and friends. About 30 years ago she united with the Christian Church of Gravity and was a true and faithful member of the church until the end, She also was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and of the Social Hour Club, which she enjoyed very much. Mrs Gaebler was one of those noble Christian women who always considered the welfare and happiness of her family and friends above her own. A noble life well lived. The funeral service was held in the Christian church at 10 o'clock Friday morning, conducted by Rev. Eppard of Clarinda, a former pastor of the Christian church here. Music was by a quartet composed of Mrs Cleo Savage, Mrs C. R. Morgan, Don Foreman and J. S. Francis, with Mrs Claude Gray, piano accompanist. The pallbearers were: C. G. Hill, Harold Powell, Cleo Savage, John Stephens, Clifford Heller, and Walter Alger. Those who had charge of the flowers were: Miss Gertrude Posten, Miss Zona Posten and Mrs C. C. Hill. The members of the O. E. S Chapter attended in a body, a section of the church being reserved for them. Relatives from a distance who attended the funeral were: W. S. Gaebler, Mrs Ester Sellner, Mrs Laura Kocher, Mr and Mrs Herbert Ulrich, Omaha, Nebr.; Mrs Charles Ameling, Kirkwood, Mo.; Walter Gaebler, Winside, Nebr.; Mrs Edw. Brandhorst, Mrs Edw. Kemper, Mrs Ester Forderman, Hermann, Mo., and Frank Gaebler, Washington, Mo. Bedford Free Press, Thursday, November 7, 1907, p. 3 John Milton Garrison passed away at his home in Gravity, Iowa, October 26th, 1907. He was born in Rockville, Indiana, November 3d, 1834. In 1848 he came with his parents to Henry county, Illinois and in 1876 to Page County, Iowa, where he resided until six years ago, when he moved to Gravity where he has since made his home. He was united in marriage to Miss Annibel [Anna Belle] Wilkie [Wilkey], December 23, 1858. This union was blessed by seven children all of whom are living. Mrs. John Pfander of Clarinda, Iowa, Mrs. Frank Fleming of Gravity, Iowa, Mrs. Frank Garrison of New Hampton, Mo., Mrs. Ida Flowers of Coin, Iowa, Mrs. Mel Damewood of Gravity, Iowa, Mrs. John Lawson of Norwich, Iowa, Mrs. John Louden of Woodbine, Iowa, who with two brothers, Mr. Robert M. Garrison of Kiel, Oklahoma and Mr. Garret Garrison of Tilden, Nebraska, 38 grand children, two great grand children, with other relatives remain to mourn their loss. ---Gravity Independent Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 3, 1953, p. 6 Obituary – Pink Gold Pink Joseph Gold, son of George and Jane Gold was born September 18, 1884, at Anderson, Indiana, and died at his home in Gravity, August 17, 1953, at the age of 68 years, 10 months, 29 days. When 8 years of age his parents moved from Indiana to a farm near Barnard, Mo. Several years later they moved to Iowa and settled on a farm near Mount Ayr in Ringgold County; later they moved to a farm north of Gravity, where he lived until ill health compelled him to retire. On September 16, 1908, he was married to Vera Nevius. To them two children were born: Dwight N. who died in infancy; and Carl L. [eon]. By 1926 he accepted Christ as his Savior and united with the Methodist church in Conway, under the pastorate of Rev. W. K. Young. A few years ago he transferred his membership to the Methodist church in Gravity. Those left to mourn his passing are his wife, Mrs. Vera Gold; one son, Carl L. of Lincoln, Nebr.; 3 grandchildren, Mrs. Mark Burmeister, Biloxi, Miss.; Gaylen Gold of Gravity and Richard Gold of Sharpsburg; one great grandson, Steven Burmeister; 2 brothers, Cleo Gold, Bedford; and Glen Gold, Klamath Falls, Ore.; 1 half brother, Seborn Bronnenberg, Des Moines, Iowa; 3 half sisters, Mrs. Myrtle Logan, Cheyenne, Wyo.; Mrs. Guy Newby, South Bend, Ind., Mrs. Rena Roudebush, Miami, Fla. Funeral services were conducted from the Methodist church in Gravity, August 19, by Rev. R. V. Felt. Burial in Washington cemetery. Out of town relatives and friends attending the Pink Gold funeral were Carl Gold, Lincoln, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Mark Burmeister and Stevie, Biloxi, Miss.; Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Perkins, Burbank, Calif.; Jimmy Perkins, Van Nuys, Calif.; Bill Gold, Hamburg; Mr. and Mrs. Guy Newby, South Bend, Ind.; Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Horton, Shannon City; Mr. and Mrs. Wilzy Anderson, Grant City, Mo.; Mr. and Mrs. Anson Gold, Chas. Gold, Mrs. Melvin Davis, Conway; Mr. and Mrs. Vernie Gold, Mrs. Sonny Gold, Mr. and Mrs. Hawley Mahaffey, Seymour. Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Hogg, Mr. and Mrs. Ben Fent, Blockton; Mr. and Mrs. Fred Weller, Mrs. Ted Selders, Lenox; Mr. and Mrs. Art Evans, Mrs. Nellie Walker, Mrs. Pete Stogdill, Mrs. Jesse Johnson of Clarinda; Mrs. Retta Nevius, Mrs. Bert Wagner, Paul Nevius, Fremont, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Walker, Mrs. Alta Nevius, Mr. and Mrs. Virgil Vincent, Bedford; Waite Walker, Eva Grubb, Richard Gold, Sharpsburg. [JOHNSON, ORVILLE SMITH "ORR"] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, December 11, 1924, p. 7 Orville Smith Johnson Died At Gravity Home Orville Smith Johnson (Orr as he was always known) was born May 30, 1872 near Wayland, Ia., Henry County, and died at his home in Gravity, Iowa, Dec. 2, 1924, aged 52 years, 6 months and 2 days. He came with his parents to Taylor County when nine years of age and lived near Sharpsburg until the death of his father, November 6th, 1891. He then moved with his mother, sisters and brother to Gravity. He was married October 2, 1895, to Miss [Mary] Alice Ray. He resided on a farm two miles southwest of town until his health failed. He has been in failing health for the past five years and everything was done for him that could be done but of no avail. His last sickness lasted for four months. His spirit took its flight December 2nd,d 1924. He was a member of the Christian Church, also a member of the Men's Bible Class. He was faithful and true to his class and church and when his health permitted was always found in his place. He was a patient sufferer during his sickness. When his many friends called to see him he would always smile and say I am better. He made arrangements for his funeral, selected his songs and pallbearers and said I am ready to go. Orr was held in high esteem by his neighbors and friends and it has been said of him by one who knew him well, "If this man ever had an enemy no one ever knew it. He was universally loved and respected by a host of friends. The general verdict is 'that a good man has been taken." While those who knew and mourn his loss have the satisfaction of knowing that as a companion his wife could not be more considerate and that relative and friends did everything possible to relieve his suffering and make his life pleasant. He leaves to mourn his loss, his wife, four sisters, Mrs. Nettie Farnham of Conway, Iowa, Mrs. Edith Ledgerwood of Gravity, Ia., Mrs. Leona Kiefer of Shenandoah, Ia., Mrs. Frances Fisher of Tiburon, Calif., a number of nephews and nieces. His father, mother, sister, and brother preceded him to the better land. The funeral was held last Thursday at 2:30 P. M., at the Christian church at Gravity, conducted by Rev. Bockhart, pastor of that church. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 21, 1938, p. 3 GRAVITY A. D. Neville Dies A. [lfred] D. [uncan] Neville was taken very ill with pneumonia, Wednesday morning and passed away Wednesday night. Funeral services were held Friday morning at 10:00 o'clock at the Gravity M. E. church, conducted by the pastor, A. J. Bissinger. Interment in Gravity cemetery beside his wife, who preceded him in death. Times-Press, Thursday, December 18, 1950, p. 9 James Neville Dies James Neville, 92, died Tuesday morning at the home of his nephew, Earl Richardson in Gravity. Funeral services were held this afternoon at 2 p. m. at the Shum Funeral home in Bedford. Burial was in Gravity. [NEVILLE, JAMES ALLEN] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 21, 1950, [p. 1] Obituary – J. A. Neville James Allen Neville, son of Margaret and James Neville, was born Oct. 5, 1858, in Delaware County, Penn., and died Dec. 12, 1950, at the age of 92 years, two months and six days. He was one of seven children, all of whom preceded him in death, except two sisters: Mrs. Fannie Richardson of Gravity and Mrs. Margaret Morris of Pasadena, Texas. His family lived a short while in Pennsylvania, then moved to Illinois and came to Iowa in 1883. He made his home with his brother, Alfred, until his death in 1938, and then he lived with his sister, Mrs. Richardson. For many years he served the people of Gravity and vicinity as the "village blacksmith." The funeral services were conducted Dec. 14 at 2:00 o'clock from the Shum Funeral home in Bedford, conducted by Rev. Robt. M. Peters. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 26, 1936, p. 4 Mrs. Neville Dies Mrs. A. [lfred] D. Neville, who had been very ill at her home in south Gravity, passed away Monday morning. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery. [NEVILLE, ROSANNA LUELLEN] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 2, 1936, p. 8 Mrs. Neville Succumbs Mrs. A. [lfred] D. Neville, who had been in ill health for several years, died at her home Monday, March 23. The funeral services were held at the Methodist church Wednesday afternoon, March 25, conducted by Rev. Mr. Nixon. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 14, 1945, p. 4 Obituary – George Nevius George Nevius, son of W. [illiam] H. [elms] and Sarah Nevius, was born July 7, 1857 in Illinois and died at the home of W. [illiam] J. [ason] Nevius, on June 7, 1945, at the age of 87 years and 11 months. When he was three years old his mother died and he was reared in the home by a stepmother, who cared for him as she did her own children. The family moved to Kansas when George was just a boy and at the age of 16 he moved to Iowa where in 1896 he was married to Mrs. Eleanor Williams. No children were born to them, but Mrs. Nevius had two boys, to whom Mr. Nevius was a kind and loving father. Mrs. Nevius died while visiting at the home of her son Verne at Gering, Nebr. on January 15, 1923. He was baptized in the faith of the Christian church in Clarinda, where his membership still stands. He leaves two half-brothers, W. [illiam] J. [ason] Nevius of Bedford and B.[rown] B. [owman] Nevius of Denver, Colorado; one half-sister, Mrs. Barbara Reed of Eldorado Springs, Missouri. Mr. Nevius was cared for the past three years by Mr. and Mrs. W. [illiam] J.[ason] Nevius. Though an invalid most of the time the past year, he was kind and appreciative, and all who knew him loved him for his high ideals and noble character. The funeral services were held at the Walker-Shum Funeral Home Friday afternoon, conducted by Rev. O. H. Hallgrimson. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery. Clarinda Herald, Friday, October 4, 1907, [p. 1] Mrs. W. H. Nevius Mrs. W. H. Nevius died at her home in Gravity yesterday afternoon at three o'clock after a long illness of which she has been a great sufferer for many months. She was aged 66 years and is survived by her husband, W. [illiam] H.[elms] Nevius, five sons and one daughter, all of whom will be present at the funeral which will be held at the home tomorrow afternoon at two o'clock. Five children have preceded her to the great beyond. The surviving children are as follows: George and Brown of this city, Jason of Bedford, John, Frank and Mrs. Barbara Reed of Gravity. Mrs. Nevius was a sister of Brown and Milt Searl of this city, who will also be present at the funeral. [NEVIUS, ROSETTA J. SEARL] Clarinda Journal, Friday, October 11, 1907, p. 6 Brief mention was made in The Journal last Friday of the death of Mrs. Rosetta Nevius, wife of W. H. Nevius. Mr. and Mrs. Nevius formerly resided in Clarinda, but for something like ten years last past have made their home at Gravity. The maiden name of the late Mrs. Nevius was Searl. She was born in Bureau County, Ill., sixty-six years ago. In that county, Oct. 2, 1862, she was married to W. [illiam] H. [elms] Nevius. From Illinois they moved to Linn County, Kan., and from there to Labette County, Kan. Twenty-eight years ago last fall they came to Clarinda. She was the stepmother of G. [eorge] E. [dward] Nevius of this city, and is survived, also, by the following children: John Nevius of near Gravity; Brown Nevius of Clarinda; Jason Nevius of near Bedford; Mrs. Barbara Reed of Gravity, and Frank Nevius of Gravity. The late Mrs. Nevius was a niece of J. H. Hoskins of this city. The funeral was held last Saturday afternoon at the Christian church in Gravity, and she was buried in the cemetery at that place. There attended the funeral from this city, Mr. and Mrs. G. E. Nevius, Brown Nevius, Miss Bessie Holman and Brown Searl and Milton Searl. [ [OWEN, GERALD "GERRY"] [OWEN, HOLLY BRIANA DUNHAM] [OWEN, DANIEL BRYCE] Clarinda Herald Journal, Wednesday, January 24, 2001 Gerald "Gerry", Holly, Daniel "Bryce" Owen Memorial Services for Gerald "Gerry" and Holly Owen and their infant son Daniel "Bryce" were held Saturday, January 20, 2001 at 2:00 PM at the Bedford Seventh Day Adventist Church in Bedford, Iowa with Inurnment of ashes at a later date. Gerry age 45 and Holly age 31 and 4 month old infant son Bryce died on Saturday, January 13, 2001 due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident on County Road M63 just north of the Page and Montgomery County lines in Montgomery County, Iowa. Gerald David "Gerry" Owen, the son of James and Virginia (Warren) Owen was born on July 29, 1955 in Memphis, Tennessee. He served his country during the Vietnam War in the United States Navy. He was a professional over the road truck driver for 26 years. Most recently he was employed as a Taxi driver for Southwest Iowa Transit in Clarinda, Iowa. He and Holly moved to Clarinda in November of 1999. He was a member of the American Legion in Clarinda and Vietnam Era Twin Registry. Gerry is survived by his daughter, Monica R. Owen and a grandson, Blake of New Albany, Mississippi; a son, Thomas J. "T. J." Owen of Clarinda, Iowa; parents, James and Virginia Owen of Albuquerque, New Mexico; a twin brother, Randall Owen and his wife Susan of Clarinda, Iowa and a brother, Daniel I. Owen, Roswell, New Mexico. Holly Briana Owen, the daughter of Alfred E. and Susan C. (Tandy) Dunham Jr. was born on January 25, 1969 at Loma Linda, California. She was raised in California and moved to Clarinda, Iowa when she was 9 years old. After graduating from High School she returned to Napa Valley, California to attend college. During her college years she spent 15 months during 1989 and 1990 teaching English in Japan. She later was an over the road truck driver with her husband for a few years before they moved back to Clarinda in November of 1999. She was employed by NSK in Clarinda. Holly is survived by her parents, Alfred E. and Susan Dunham Jr. of Clarinda, Iowa; a son, T. J. Owen of Clarinda and a daughter, Monica R. Owen and grandson Blake of New Albany, Mississippi; grandparents, Alfred "Lefty" and Edith "Bonnie" Dunham of Loma Linda, California and Oscar F. Tandy of High Shoals, Georgia; many aunts and uncles. Daniel "Bryce" Owen, four months, the son of Gerry and Holly (Dunham) Owen was born on September 16, 2000 in Clarinda, Iowa. Memorials to the Bedford Seventh Day Adventist Church. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 27, 1939, p. 7 GRAVITY Those who attended the services for Mrs. Palmer, who was buried at the Gravity cemetery Saturday morning, were Mr. and Mrs. Joe Morgan, Mr. and Mrs. Riley Lee, Mr. and Mrs. O. H. Price, Mr. and Mrs. E. M. Posten, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Kimpton, Mrs. Clever West and son Claud, Mrs. Lester Corbin all of the Oak Hill community.
Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 31, 1945, p. 7 GRAVITY Mrs. Perdew Dies Mrs. E. M. Perdew died at her home Sunday morning. She leaves her husband, two daughters, Mrs. Neva Lawrence of Harlan and Mrs. Billie Brown of Gravity; and one son, Chas. Perdew of Gravity. [PERDEW, INISS MAY CARPENTER] Gravity Independent, Thursday, May 31, 1945, [p. 1] Mrs. E. W. Perdew Obituary – Iniss M. [ay] Carpenter, daughter of Seymour and Elizabeth Carpenter, born Dec. 13, 1868, near Independence in Buchanan County, Iowa, and passed away at her home in Gravity, May 27, 1945, at the age of 76 years, 5 months, 14 days. At the age of 7 years, she with her parents came to Taylor County, which has since been her home. In her early childhood she united with the Christian church and remained a loyal member until her death. She was united in marriage July 24, 1890, to Emanuel W. [ilkinson] Perdew. To this union were born four children: Wilber C. Perdew, Chas. E. Perdew, Neva O. Lawrence, Vera A. Brown. One son, Wilber C., preceded her in death in 1920. Those who remain to mourn her death, are her husband, son Charles of Gravity, Neva O. of Harland, Iowa, and Vera A., of Gravity; two sisters, Sarah Walrath of Tarkio, Mo., and Cora Bower of St. Joseph, Mo., and two brothers: Walter Carpenter of Laredo, Mo., and Edger Carpenter of Des Moines, Iowa; also nine grandchildren; sixteen great grandchildren, besides many other relatives and friends. The funeral service was held in the Christian church here, Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, conducted by the Rev. C. E. Eppard of Clarinda, and burial was in the family lot in the Gravity cemetery. The music was by Earl King, Mrs. Oliver Posten and Mrs. Cecil Morgan, accompanied at the piano by Mrs. Claude Gray. The pallbearers were: Howard Perdew, Leonard Perdew, George Depew, Cleo Savage, Claude Gray and Dean Fleming.
Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, March 12, 1914, p. 3 The little son of Mr. and Mrs. P. [rentiss] A. Price died Saturday noon from tubercular meningitis, after a short illness. Funeral services held Monday at 2 o'clock at the residence conducted by Rev. J. E. Wade. Interment at Gravity cemetery. [PRICE, EVERETT JOHN Bedford Free Press, Tuesday, March 17, 1914, p. 4 Gravity Everett, the four-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Prentice Price, died last Saturday of tubercular meningitis. Funeral services were held at the home Monday, conducted by Rev. Irving E. Wade. [PRICE, LOUIE FEDELIA FARNHAM] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 13, 1979 Louie F. Price 92 Last Rites Were Held September 8 Funeral services for Mrs. Prentiss A. (Louie F.) Price, 92, of Gravity, were held September 8 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford conducted by Rev. James Nelson. Mrs. Price died September 6, 1979 in Neosho Memorial Hospital in Chanute, Kansas. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Louie F. [edelia] Price, daughter of Everett D. [ennis] and Mary E. [mma] Farnham, was born at Gravity, Iowa September 2, 1887. She lived on a farm east of Gravity, attended public school and the Christian Church. Later she became a member of the First Baptist Church in Bedford. She was married to Prentiss A. Price at Holyoke, Colo. November 26, 1908 and they moved back to the farm east of Gravity. Three children were born to this union: Everett John, Alma and Naomi. Mrs. Price was preceded in death by her husband, one son and one daughter. Left to cherish her memory are a daughter and son-in -law, Alma and Elvin Savage; four grandsons; one grand-daughter; 10 great grandchildren. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 15, 1952, [p. 1] Prentice Price, 72, Drowns In Lake Funeral services for Prentice Price, 72, farmer residing near Gravity, were held at the Christian church in Gravity Monday afternoon, and burial was in the Gravity cemetery. Rev. Evan Routh of Bedford was in charge of the last rites. Mr. Price lost his life by drowning in the Lake of Three Fires Friday evening. C. C. Hill of Gravity and Mr. Price went to the lake about 2 p. m. Friday and had been fishing from a small home made boat, when they were both dumped into the lake in an inlet straight across the lake west from the cottages areas. Hill managed to swim to shore where he was marooned. He yelled for help for several minutes before his cries were heard by the conservation officer, Ray Turner, and some other fishermen, Bert Safley and Lester Safley. Turner telephone Sheriff Harry Lucas and Ben Scane, fire chief, for help and in a few minutes the lake was being dragged with hooks to locate Price. It's reported that Hill started calling for help about 4 o'clock Friday evening. The body was located about two hours later in water about eight feet deep. According to Hill he started to raise an anchor at one end of their little boat and Price started to raise another anchor at his end of the boat, when it turned over. "The craft was uninsured and unseaworthy and should not have been placed on any body of water," the conservation officer, Ray Turner states. Sheriff Lucas and County Attorney A. Elton Jensen, assisted by Turner, Hanshaw and Shupe, used county and lake equipment provided for locating bodies under water for an hour and a half before succeeding in snagging a portion of the drowned man's clothing with hooks. Members of the fire company were on hand and assisted in the search. Equipment was on hand to be used in resuscitation efforts. There is little hope of successful resuscitation when a person has been under water more than a few minutes, it is reported. This is the first drowning at the Lake of Three Fires in the 15 years since it was built. Prentice Alain Price was born near Smithville, Mo., August 10, 1879 and died at the age of 72 years and 9 months. He was married to Miss Louie F. Farnham of Gravity, Nov. 26, 1908. To them were born three children, one son, Everett John and two daughters Alma and Naomi. Everett John preceded his father in death March 7, 1914. He united with the Gravity Christian church in 1914. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife Louie; his two daughters and husbands, Mr. and Mrs. Elvin (Alma) Savage of Streator, Ill., Mr. and Mrs. Maurice McMahill of Denver, Colo.; three grandsons, Dennis Savage, Earl and Calvin McMahill; two sisters, Mrs. Inez Simmons and Mrs. S. B. Strange of Kansas City; three brothers, S. B. Price of St. Croix Falls, Wisc., W. H. Price of Paola, Kans.; G. Wayne Price of Kansas City.
Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 7, 1969, p. 3 Earl Richardson Rites Monday Funeral services for William Earl Richardson, 72, of Gravity were held Monday August 4 at the Gravity Christian Church with Rev. Ivo G. Randels officiating. Mr. Richardson died July 31, 1969 at Thogmartin Nursing Home in Bedford. Interment was in Washington Cemetery, Gravity. William Earl Richardson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Richardson, was born May 16, 1896 north of Gravity, Iowa. He spent most of his life on a farm southwest of Gravity where he engaged in farming. Early in life he became a member of the Gravity Christian Church. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, one brother, Carl, and one sister, Mae. He is survived by one sister, Carrie, and brother-in-law Mark, nieces and nephews, many friends and neighbors. He was a good neighbor and will be missed by all who knew him. [SAVAGE, ELIZABETH F. HOSKINS] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, June 18, 1925, [p. 1] Mrs. E. F. Savage Dead Mrs. E. [lizabeth] F. Savage of Gravity, 68 years of age, died at her home Monday, June 15th, following an illness from a complication of ailments of about three weeks. She is one of the oldest residents of that community having lived there about 31 years. The funeral was held this afternoon, June 18th, at the home and interment was in the Gravity cemetery. Rev. Warrior conducted the service. [SAVAGE, ELIZABETH F. HOSKINS] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, June 25, 1925, p. 6 Gravity Items Mrs. W. [illiam] P. Savage died early last Tuesday morning after about three weeks illness. The funeral was held from her home Thursday afternoon, Rev. Warrior preaching the sermon. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, November 20, 2002 LILLIAN MAY BRIGHT Lillian May Bright, daughter of John E. [llis] and Gertrude Peace [Pease] Bright was born May 1, 1903, in Fremont County Iowa and died November 13, 2002, at Rosewood at The Groves, Independence, MO. The family moved to Conway, Iowa in 1907 and Lillian graduated from Conway High School in 1921. She attended Summer School in Red Oak, Iowa and taught one term at a rural school near Conway. She was united in marriage to Cleo N. [elson] Savage on August 22 [27], 1922, at the Christian Church parsonage in Gravity, Iowa. To this union was born two sons, Dale and Doyle. After her marriage, Lillian joined the Christian Church in Gravity and was an active member there for many years. In 1963, after the death of her husband, she moved to Paso Robles, CA, to care for her aging parents and she resided there until October of 1993 when failing health necessitated her move to Independence, MO, near her son. Lillian spent over twenty years of her life taking care of other family members in her home and was a kind and gracious lady to all who knew and loved her. Her church, both Gravity and Paso Robles was the guiding influence in her life and she served faithfully as long as she was able. She was preceded in death by her husband, a son and daughter-in-law, her parents and five sisters and three brothers. Left to cherish her memory are her son, Doyle and wife, Annabel of Independence, MO; five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Graveside services were at the Gravity, Iowa cemetery. Arrangements were by New Salem Funeral Home, Independence, MO. Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, November 8, 1917, p. 3 GRAVITY Mrs. Seth Savage passed away Thursday evening at the home of her son N.[elson] C. Savage after a lingering illness of many weeks. Funeral services were held Sunday morning at 11 o'clock from the Christian church conducted by the pastor. Interment at Gravity cemetery. New Market Herald, Thursday, April 29, 1920, p. 4 GRAVITY Uncle Seth Savage passed away Monday morning about 9:30 at the Nelson Savage home east of Gravity. Funeral arrangements will be given later. [SAVAGE, SETH CARSON] New Market Herald, Thursday, May 6, 1920, p. 2 GRAVITY Funeral services of S. [eth] C. [arson] Savage were held Thursday from the Christian church at 2:30 conducted by the pastor Rev. J. T. Walsh. Interment at Gravity cemetery, by the side of his wife, who had preceded him. A. J. Savage of Shelby, Ia., attended his brother's funeral here, Saturday [Thursday]. [SAVAGE, SETH CARSON] New Market Herald, Thursday, May 13, 1920, [p. 1] Obituary – Seth C. Savage Seth Casson [Carson] Savage was born June 20, 1834 in Jackson County Ohio and departed this life, April 27, 1920. In the year of 1855, he came to Wapello Co. Iowa and from there he moved to Henry County, where on September 6, 1860, he was united in marriage with Mary A. [nn] Coy, living happily together until she was called home November 2, 1917. In the year 1874 the family moved from Henry Co. to Taylor Co., taking up residence in Gravity for 21 years until the failing health of Mrs. Savage forced them to move onto the farm, from whence they both have been called into the other world. While living in Washington and Henry counties, Mr. Savage was an active member of the Methodist church. He leaves behind him four brothers, Allen Savage, Charlestown, W. Va., John Savage of Shelby, Ia., Marion and Cass Savage, whose addresses are at present writing unknown. The funeral service was held Thursday afternoon in the Christian church and interment was made in the Gravity cemetery. —Gravity Independent
Clarinda Herald Journal, Monday, September 6, 1943, p. 5 HAWLEYVILLE Mr. and Mrs. Beryl Bently attended the funeral of Mrs. Bentley's cousin, Mrs. Julia Sawvel, which was held in Gravity, Wednesday afternoon. She passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Gertrude Lund, in Shenandoah. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 15, 1942, p. 7 Obituary – Mrs. Q. A. Shaw Mrs. Amanda Shaw, long time resident of Taylor County, died at the Mrs. Lou Chandler residence in Gravity Saturday, Jan. 10, 1942. If she had lived until the 14th day of February she would have been 93 years of age. With her only daughter, Mrs. [Mary] Alice McDonald, she had made her home in Gravity since last June. Since her husband's death in 1907, Mrs. Shaw had lived with her daughter, and a son, Joseph B. [radbury] Shaw, whose death occurred in August of last year. Mrs. Shaw, whose maiden name was Kellogg was born at Noblesville, Indiana, Feb. 14, 1849. Since girlhood days she had been a member of the Christian Church and throughout her life had been closely identified with its work. While still living in Indiana, she was married to Quincy A. [dams] Shaw and together they came west; taking up residence in Bedford, and later in Gravity. A well-known lumberman, Mr. Shaw was church clerk at Bedford for many years and his wife a teacher in the church school. This work was their dominant interest, and continued as such during their residence in Gravity. Mrs. Shaw is survived by her daughter, whose permanent residence is at Grand Island, Nebr.; three grandchildren, Mrs. Helen Samuelson and Kenneth R. Shaw of Las Animas, Colo., and Mrs. Frances H. Giese of San Leandro, Calif. There are also four great grandchildren. The funeral services were held at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon at the Chandler home, conducted by Reverend Ben W. Sinderson, who was assisted by Rev. Mr. Proctor. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery. Bedford Free Press, Thursday, June 24, 1909, p. 5 Obituary – Quincy A. Shaw After a prolonged illness extending over a number of years, Friday night at the family home here occurred the death of one of our most highly respected and honored citizens, Quincy Adams Shaw. For a number of years the deceased has been in poor health but most of the time able to be about and attend to business, although at no time during this period has he been free from suffering. During the past few months Bright's disease assumed an acute state and [he] was forced to take to his bed from which he never arose. The last few days were spent in semi-consciousness from which he rallied at times, but continued to grow weaker and finally passed into that eternal sleep "From which none ever wake to weep." The funeral services were held at the home at three o'clock Sunday conducted by the old friend and former pastor of the deceased, Rev. J. P. Lucas, now pastor of the Christian church at Tingley. Interment was made in the Gravity cemetery. A large company of neighbors and friends assembled to pay final tribute to one whom they had learned to love and with more than passing friendship. The service was full of feeling and genuine sorrow as the pastor had long ago formed a close and unusual friendship for the man whose silent form he was thus called upon to conduct to its final resting place in the silent city of the dead. The casket was literally buried in floral offerings, sent by friends from Clarinda, Kansas City and Bedford, mingling together with those contributed by friends and neighbors here. Quincy Adams Shaw was born in Preble County, Ohio, January 3, 1845, and died at his home in Gravity, Iowa, Saturday morning June 12, 1909, being 64 years, 5 months and 9 days old. He was married to Miss Amanda K. [ellogg] Hunt in 1867. To this union two children were born, Joseph, who is now in the lumber business at Las Animas, Colorado, and Alice, now Mrs. Orville Beall, and whose home is at Springfield, Nebraska. Both children were at the bedside of their father at the time of his death. The family came to Bedford in 1868 where Mr. Shaw was employed by the Rand Lumber Company until his removal to Gravity in 1895 where he engaged in the lumber business. He continued in this business until forced to retire by failing health. He spent one summer in Colorado hoping to improve his health by a change of climate, but did not receive permanent benefit. Returning to Gravity he purchased the store stock formerly owned by T. C. Mann and continued to conduct the business till the time of his death. He was a faithful member of the Christian church, a true friend and an honored, upright citizen. It can be truly said that he had not an enemy in the world and his death has cast a shadow of sorrow over the entire neighborhood. Besides the wife and children before mentioned, he leaves three brothers, none of whom were able to be present at the funeral. ---Gravity Independent [SHAW, QUINCY ADAMS]
Bedford Free Press, Tuesday, May 25, 1915, [p. 1] D. M. Woodfill Dies Suddenly At Home Prominent Taylor County Resident Drops Dead Thursday Friends From All Over County Attended Funeral Services Held Sunday---Interment Was Made in the Gravity Cemetery. D. M. Woodfill, one of the best-known citizens of the county died at his home in Gravity, Thursday morning, May 20th. Death came without warning, as so far as known, Mr. Woodfill appeared to be in his usual health that morning and had gone out to feed his chickens and was found a few minutes later near his strawberry patch where he had stopped evidently to inspect the berries. Funeral services were held at the M. E. church, Gravity Sunday, May 23rd, at 11 a. m., conducted by his pastor, Rev. Proctor. Interment was in the Gravity cemetery. The funeral was attended by a large number of friends from Conway and Sharpsburg and other parts of the county. The Gravity Post, G. A. R. and the Relief Corps attended in a body. Daniel Mitchell Woodfill was born in Jefferson County, Indiana, May 22, 1843, spending his childhood and youth at the old home on a farm until the breaking out of the Civil War. He enlisted in the Sixth Indiana infantry with the rank of sergeant, August 26, 1861 and was with his command in the battle of Shiloh, Stoneriver, Resaca, Chickamauga and Missionary Ridge and in all of the engagements of the Atlanta campaign. He was mustered out in September, 1864. In 1867 he was married to Susan Caroline Hamilton, also of Indiana and together they came to Iowa in 1870, settling in Marshall Township, Taylor County, where they resided until Mrs. WoodfillÕs death, which occurred in 1911, while in California to spend the winter. After the death of his wife Mr. Woodfill decided to leave the farm and located in Gravity where he has since resided. In 1912 Mr. Woodfill married Mrs. Harris of Indianola, who survives him. Deceased had no children of his own but reared a nephew, Jesse M. Green and a niece, Mary Ellen Green. The former now married and living in Oklahoma, while the niece has been dead a number of years. Starting in the county originally with an eighty-acre farm, Mr. Woodfill increased his holdings until his farm consisted of several hundred acres, which was highly improved, the home farm having the largest and best orchard in the county. Superior business ability and sterling character made Mr. Woodfill a natural leader in public affairs in his community and during his long residence here has filled many offices of trust and usefulness. At his beautiful country home near Sharps many have been entertained in years past and he and his estimable wife had a reputation for hospitality extending far beyond the confines of the county. [WOODFILL, DANIEL MITCHELL] Bedford Free Press, Tuesday, June 1, 1915, p. 3 GRAVITY Relatives from a distance who attended the funeral of D. [aniel] M. [itchell] Woodfill last Sunday were H. [orace] C. [icero] Woodfill of Madison, Indiana; O. H. Woodfill of Nevada, Missouri; T. W. Woodfill of Strahan, Iowa; Mrs. B. F. Clayton and Mrs. Thompson, Indianola, Iowa; Bert Harris, Omaha, Nebraska; Earl Harris, Indianola, Iowa. [WOODFILL, DANIEL MITCHELL] [WOODFILL, SUSAN CAROLINE HAMILTON] Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, January 19, 1911, [p. 1] Mrs. D. M. Woodfill Dead Passes Away While Guest In San Bernardino, Cal. Word was received Tuesday of the death of Mrs. D. [aniel] M. [itchell] Woodfill of Conway. Mr. and Mrs. Woodfill and Frank Greeley had been visiting at San Bernardino, Ca., at the home of Mr. Greeley's daughter for a few weeks and when they departed Mrs. Woodfill was in fine health and her death was a shock to the community in which she resided. [WOODFILL, SUSAN CAROLINE HAMILTON] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, January 19, 1911, p. 4 Mrs. D. M. Woodfill Dead Word was received here Wednesday of the death of Mrs. D. [aniel] M. [itchell] Woodfill, which occurred at Los Angeles, Calif. [San Bernardino], where they had gone to spend the winter. The remains will be brought back to her old home near Conway Sunday, where the funeral will be held. Mrs. Woodfill, whose maiden name was Miss Susan Caroline Hamilton, was born in Decatur County, Indiana and she was married to Mr. Woodfill in that county on Oct. 17, 1867. No children came to bless this union, but they raised a niece and a nephew as their own. They were Miss Mary Green, who died later in life, and Jesse M. Green, whose home is in Oklahoma. Mr. Woodfill is one of Taylor County's most prosperous farmers and has a host of friends, all of whom extend to him their heartfelt sympathy in his sad bereavement. |