Obituaries |
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com |
Bedford Free Press
Thursday August 28, 1902 [p. 1]
A. T. Wentworth's Death
Taken Sick With Typhoid Fever and Dies In a Short Time—Biographical
The announcement last Thursday morning that A. [ddison] T. Wentworth was dead came as a great surprise to many, as it was not generally known that he was sick, at least not seriously. The announcement caused profound sorrow and regret in the hearts of Bedford people. Monday, August 11, he went to work, but soon returned home and went to bed, which he never left. The dread malady rapidly did its work, and Mr. Wentworth died Thursday morning, August 21, at 7:30 o'clock. He was conscious up to the last. He had expressed himself as being ready to go, and passed away in the faith. This is indeed a great consolation to those who are left to mourn his departure. Mr. Wentworth was a splendid citizen, a kind, considerate husband, a loving, indulgent father and a true friend to all, and his death was keenly felt in this community.
The funeral services were conducted at the home by Rev. T. J. Ream. The M. E. choir sang some beautiful selections. The flowers were profuse and very lovely. The Woodmen camp, of which deceased was a member, attended in a body, and took charge of the remains, escorted it to the Lexington cemetery and laid it to rest with the ceremonies of the order.
Obituary
Addison T. Wentworth was born in Jackson, New Hampshire, June 1, 1858. There he resided with his parents until twenty-one years of age when he came to Conway, Iowa. He lived there until 1883 where he was married to Mary E. [llen] Fleming. From there they moved to Omaha, in which place they resided two and a half years. In 1886 he went into the furniture business in Conway, at which he worked ten years. To them was born the same year, May 25, their eldest daughter, Iva M. [ay]. On November 11, 1890, Ethel H. was born. He moved to Bedford with his family in 1896, where he resided until the time of his death.
Times-Republican
Thursday March 18, 1920
George Henry, who was called here by the death of his brother, French [Gibson] Henry, returned Wednesday to Ralston, Oklahoma.
Bedford Times-Press
October 1, 1942
Mrs. Asa Terrell
Ida Mae Standley, daughter of J. [oseph] R. and Rachel [Hornback] Standley, was born at Platteville, Iowa, March 18, 1860 and died September 8, 1942 at the home of her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Jay S. [tandley] Terrill [Ruby Pearl Ewart] at the age of 82 years, 3 months and 20 days.
She was married to Asa Terrill on August 25, 1878. To them two children were born: Maudie Anita and Jay Standley. She was preceded in death by her husband and by both of her children.
She is survived by one niece, Mrs. Truman Straight [Ida Ferne Standley]; her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Jay S. [tandley] Terrill; three grandchildren, Mrs. Jack Steen, Maxine and Dwight Terrill; five great grandchildren, Melvin Shoemaker, Mrs. Donald Finch, Charlotte Shoemaker, Asa Steen and Karen Steen.
Mrs. Terrill was the last of the early pioneers of the Platteville community. She united with the Methodist Church in Platteville at an early age, attending Sunday school and church in the homes and the schoolhouse before the church was built.
After her family was reared, few winters passed that she did not open her home to some schoolgirl who wanted to further her education. She was a lover of the out-of-doors and was a lover of good horses. She ministered to the sick and needy in her community. Her entire life was spent in Taylor County where she is lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
Funeral services were held at the Platteville Methodist Church, conducted by the pastor, Rev. E. B. Stewart. Burial was in the Platteville Cemetery.
Times-Republican
Thursday March 15, 1923
Buried At Platteville
The funeral of Asa Terrill, whose death was announced in the Tuesday issue, was held yesterday. The casket was open at the residence from 9:30 to 11:30 a. m., to give all who wished to view the body of their friend for the last time. Later it was taken to Platteville, where services were held at 2:30. The little church was crowded and many were unable to gain entrance. The services were conducted by Rev. Gable of the M. E. church, after which the body was consigned to mother earth in the Platteville cemetery.
Several friends from different parts of the county were unable to attend the funeral on account of the almost impassible roads. Bedford loses one of its most prominent citizens and Taylor County one of its old and respected pioneers. The many friends throughout the county extend their sympathy to the bereaved wife and children.
[Terrill, Asa]
Blockton News
Thursday March 15, 1923 [p. 1]
Asa Terrill Dead
Asa Terrill, who had one of his legs amputated on Monday of last week at a St. Joseph hospital, in an effort to save his life, was removed to his home at Bedford on Friday where he passed away Sunday evening about 7 o’clock.
Asa Terrill, son of Dwight and Catherine (Bowman) Terrill, was born in Shelby County, this state, August 18, 1855, and passed away at Bedford March 11, 1923, aged 67 years, 6 months and 23 days.
His boyhood days were spent on the farm in Shelby County and where he was educated in the district schools. In about 1872, or when he was seventeen years of age, he came to Taylor county and entered business life as a clerk at Platteville where he remained until in 1877.
On August 25, 1877 he was united in marriage to Miss Ida M. [ay] Standley, daughter of Joseph R. [uel] and Rachel [Hornbeck] Standley. After his marriage he moved to a farm, which he operated for one year. Moving to Bedford he conducted the Pacific hotel for several years and later was identified with a mercantile business at Mankato, Kansas, and still later spent four years on the road as a traveling salesman. Retiring from this line of work he purchased a farm southeast of Platteville where he resided until in 1902 he moved to Blockton and engaged in the hardware business with [?] Danford for four years, retiring in 1806 [1906]. He continued to live in Blockton [rest of sentence unreadable] ago when he moved to Bedford where [he] has since resided.
The home of Mr. and Mrs. Terrill was blessed with two children, Mrs. Maude A.[manda] Mosier of Blockton and Dr. Jay S. [tandley] Terrill, formerly of Bedford but now located in Ottumwa.
He is survived by his wife, the two children named, three grandchildren, Trula Mosier and Maxine and Dwight Terrill; one brother, Dan Terrill, of Harlan, and other relatives and a large number of friends.
Funeral services were held at Platteville yesterday afternoon at 2:30, conducted by M. A. Gable, and interment was made in the Platteville cemetery.
[TERRILL, ASA]
Bedford Times-Republican (Bedford, Iowa), Tuesday, March 13, 1923
Another Pioneer Crosses the Divide
Asa Terrill, Aged 68 Years, Dies Sunday Evening, After a Lingering Illness, Later Submitting to Amputation of His Foot
Again we are called upon to chronicle the passing of another pioneer, thus gradually thinning the ranks of those hardy old settlers who first saw the future greatness of old Taylor county. In this chapter we are called upon to announce the death of Asa Terrill, one of Bedford's and Taylor county's best beloved citizens, a gentleman of sterling character, a loving husband and devoted father, and who when a friendship was formed, lasted till death.
For some years past Mr. Terrill has been afflicted with diabetis, and everything known to the medical profession has been tried out on him but to no avail. About a month ago the disease took a new turn, settling in his lower limbs and making it impossible for him to walk. Later blood poisoning and gangrene set in and he was rushed to the hospital in St. Joseph where better care under the eye of the best medical skill it was thought his life might be saved. Matters grew worse however and as a last resort they decided to amputate his foot just below the knee. He rallied nicely from the operation but the ravages of the terrible malady had made such inroads upon his constitution that his life was despaired of, and at his request was again brought home, where he seemed more contented and resigned to his fate.
He lingered along for several days after that, later lapsing into a semi-conscious condition until he passed away Sunday evening about 7:00 o'clock.
Asa Terrill was born in Shelby county, Iowa, in 1855. When six years of age his parents moved to Nebraska, where they remained for about five years, moving from there to Worth county, Missouri. When 16 years of age he first sought employment in a store at Platteville, this county, working for the late Dr. J. R. Standley and there he remained for some time. He later had charge of a store at Redding, Iowa, in Ringgold county, later going to Defiance, Missouri, where he engaged in the mercantile business for himself. Two years later he sold out and returned to Platteville. On August 25, 1878, he was married to Miss Ida M. Standley, daughter of the late J. R. Standley, and the following year moved to Bedford and took charge of the old Pacific House, then located where the Clark Theatre now stands. As a landlord he was very popular and at that time perhaps the youngest landlord in the state was considered a success in every way. Tiring of this strenuous life Mr. Terrill and wife again moved back to Platteville and there settled on a farm. Two children were born to this worthy couple, a daughter, now Mrs. Maud Mosier, residing near Blockton and Dr. J. S. Terrill, a practicing physician here for many years past. About two years ago Mr. Terrill gave up active farm life, later removing to Bedford, where they had planned to spend the balance of their days in rest and quietude, and enjoy the fruits of their labor of years past.
In the passing of Asa Terrill, he leaves to mourn his loss, a loving and faithful wife, a daughter, Mrs. Maud Mosier, of Blockton, and a son, Dr. J. S. Terrill of this city, all of whom were present at the bedside of the sufferer when the death angel arrived with the final summons.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon. The casket will be open at the home Wednesday forenoon from 10 until 12 o'clock, after which the body will be taken to Platteville, arriving there about 2:30 where the services will be held, conducted by Rev. M. A. Gable.
[TERRILL, ASA]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, March 15, 1923
Asa Terrill Died At Home Here Sunday
Funeral Services Held Wednesday. Burial Made At Platteville.
Asa Terrill, another of the staunch pioneers of this community, died at his home in Bedford Sunday evening, March 11th. Mr. Terrill had been a sufferer from diabetis for several years and only through very careful dieting, had he been able to be about at all. About a week before his death, a condition arising from the disease made it necessary to go to the hospital at St. Joseph where his right foot was amputated just above the ankle. However, this drastic measure was of no avail and at his own request when the end seemed near, he was brought home on a stretcher last Friday. He wanted to be in his own home that he loved so dearly, to spend the last moments of his life. The end came Sunday evening.
Wednesday forenoon the body lay in state at the home in north Bedford, where friends came and went all forenoon to view the remains of their good friend. Funeral services were held at the home about 11 o'clock Wednesday and the full grave side ritual was given by a large group of his Masonic brethren immediately following. Then the body was taken to Platteville and laid to rest in the family lots there.
Following is the obituary of the deceased as read by the minister in charge of the services, Mr. Gable:
Asa Terrill
Asa Terrill was born August 18, 1855, at Bowmans Grove, Shelby County, Iowa. He was the oldest of four children, having one brother and two sisters, the brother being present at the funeral.
Bowmans Grove was named for the grandfather, Leonard Bowman, who was one of the pioneers of Shelby county. The father, Dwight Terrill and his wife Catherine Bowman left this home in Asa's early boyhood and established a home near Nebraska City, Nebraska. After some little time they moved to northwest Missouri and from there to a farm northeast of Blockton, a place then called Mormontown, and from there back to Shelby county.
Asa Terrill, then grown to manhood, remained in Platteville where he was engaged in the mercantile business with Dr. J. P. Standley and here he remained until after his marriage to Miss Ida Standley which took place in 1878.
They immediately settled on a farm east of Platteville and since that time have always resided in Taylor county with the exception of a few months spent in Kansas.
Two children came to bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. Terrill, a son, Dr. Jay S. Terrill, and Mrs. Trula Mosier, both well known in this community.
Mr. Terrill was engaged in the hardware business for three or four years after leaving the farm, then finding that his health was failing he retired from business and since that time for the last eighteen years he has bravely tried to resist the ravages of the diseases which finally was the cause of his death.
Mr. Terrill was of a sunny happy disposition, radiating the warmth and light of his life upon all around him. His was a life of absolute honest and integrity. His word was as good as his bond and he was honored and respected in every community which was fortunate enough to have him for a citizen. His business ability was of a high order and success crowned his efforts. Many came to him for counsel and time oft proved the wisdom of his judgments.
From boyhood he was an exceptional character and early in life he established high ideals for his guidance. He was a man of positive opinion and yet had a remarkable faculty of winning the confidence and friendship of his associates even when his judgments differed from theirs. He was always a true friend of young men and many can say today "I am glad he was my friend."
But it was in the home that the enduring qualities of this man's character were revealed. Here his first and foremost thought was for his loved ones. Here he builded a shrine where love and good will were always in evidence. Together with his good wife he established a home that was always a harbor for the storm tossed and a shelter for the needy. Many were inspired with new hope, many blessed with a new love, and some found abiding peaceful haven within the hallowed confines of this home.
Among those thus aided was Miss Emma Campbell who came to them when only nine years of age. With them she received her education, graduating from the Blockton schools and continued making her home with them while one of our county's successful teachers. In 1920 she was married to Mr. Ralph Payton and now resides in Canada. Also Miss Kate Armstrong lived with them for several years, only leaving for Winnipeg, Canada last summer. Among the others thus befriended were Effie and Bable Campbell and Ruth Blake, the latter making her home with them at the present time.
Mr. Terrill was endowed with a great love for humanity and his kind and gracious manner won him friends everywhere. His appreciation of those friends was a mark of the genuineness of his character. In his last sickness he expressed again and again his appreciation of the kind and loving ministrations of his family, his doctors, his nurses and his friends. He was glad to get home and after his return from the hospital peace and contentment seemed to fill his soul.
Last Sunday evening as the day was dying in the west his spirit left the temple of clay to be at home with God.
He leaves to mourn his departure his devoted wife, his son and daughter, one brother Dan Terrill of Harlan, Iowa, and one sister, Mrs. Leora Smith now living in Jacksonville, Oregon.
The whole community mourns with the bereaved today for we have lost a brother true, a friend and foremost citizen. [Poem not transcribed.]
[TERRILL, ASA]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, March 15, 1923
Dr. and Mrs. J. P. Standley of St. Joseph have been in Bedford this week, called here by the death of Asa Terrill.
Mrs. Horace Jones of Parnell, Mo. who had been here attending the Asa Terrill funeral, returned home today noon.
Miss Kate Armstrong, whose home is now in Winnepeg, Canada, came to Blockton Wednesday and from there went to Platteville to attend the funeral of Asa Terrill. She accompanied Mrs. Terrill to Bedford after the services to make a visit here.
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday November 17, 1938 [p. 1]
Dr. Jay S. Terrill Died This Morning
Dr. Jay S. [tandley] Terrill, 56, a practicing physician in Bedford and Blockton for many years, died at his home in Bedford this morning, Thursday, Nov. 17, after a lingering illness of months.
He is survived by his wife [Ruby Ewart] and two children, Miss Maxine Terrill and Dwight Terrill, both of the home. Also by his aged mother, Mrs. Asa Terrill [Ida Mae Standley].
The funeral services will be held at the home at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. W. H. Warrior of Blockton. There will also be short services at Platteville and burial will be in the Platteville cemetery.
[Terrill, Jay Standley]
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday November 24, 1938 [p. 1]
Attend Terrill Funeral
Among those from out of town, who attended the funeral services for Dr. Jay S.[tandley] Terrill in Bedford Sunday, were Mr. and Mrs. Ben Jones of Arcadia, Cal.; Mrs. G. A. Chaney, Mr. and Mrs. George Wolfe and son Loren, Mrs. Jennie Harlow, Mr. and Mrs. Gweldon Ewart, of Des Moines; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Loutzenshiser of Omaha; Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Ewart and Mrs. Frank Ewart of Geneva, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. George Felton and Mrs. Fred Bright of Parnell, Mo.
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Wells, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Gutch and Dr. R. C. Persons of Maryville; Mr. and Mrs. Golden Prosser of Bloomfield; Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Pettis of Grant City, Mo.; Dr. and Mrs. T. E. Gutch of Albia; Dr. and Mrs. Roy Gutch of Chariton; Mr. and Mrs. Mark Bentley of Barnard, Mo.; Mrs. Dan Terrill, Ralph Miller, Everett Terrill, Mrs. Don Frederickson and Mrs. Leora Smith of Harlan, Iowa; Mrs. Maymie Hessel, Mrs. Chas. Stapleton, Mrs. Ray Conrad, Mrs. Hazel Hoffman, Mrs. John Chrisinger and others from Creston.
[Terrill, Jay Standley]
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday November 24, 1938 [p. 1]
Dr. Jay S. Terrill
Dr. Jay S. Terrill passed away at his home in Bedford Thursday morning, Nov. 17. The end came without warning, death being caused by a second stroke of paralysis.
Jay Standley Terrill, son of Asa and Ida [Mae Standley] Terrill, was born at Bedford, Iowa, on March 5, 1882. When but a boy he moved with his parents to Platteville, where he spent his boyhood days. He completed the grade school there and finished his high school work at Blockton. He attended Simpson College at Indianola, later entering the Ensworth Medical School at St. Joseph, Mo., where he was graduated in 1906. He practiced medicine at Shannon City and Blockton and in 1915 moved to Bedford.
In March 1928 he had a call to become associated with the McCleary Sanitarium at Excelsior Springs, Mo., but he missed his friends and in 1931 returned to Bedford, which community was his home.
Dr. Terrill was widely known as a surgeon and physician. His work of administering to the sick was his religion. No sacrifice was too great for him to make for his patients and friends, his entire life being lived for others.
On Sept. 6, 1905 he was married to Miss Ruby Ewart. To them were born a daughter and son, Maxine and Dwight. They were a very devoted family and with his aged mother, had cared for him with loving hands and sad hearts since his first stroke of paralysis on June 5, 1938.
His aged mother buried her only daughter, Mrs. Maude A. [nita] Mosier of Blockton just four weeks ago, and Dr. Jay was her only son. His father preceded him in death in 1923.
The funeral services were held at the home Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. W. H. Warrior of Blockton. The Masonic burial services followed at the church in Platteville and burial was made in the cemetery at that place.
[Note: Jay Standley Terrill is buried in Blockton Rose Hill Cemetery, not Platteville as stated in the obituary.]
[TERRILL, JAY STANLEY]
Blockton News (Blockton, Iowa), Thursday, November 24, 1938
Gweldon Ewart and wife returned to their home in Des Moines Sunday evening, having been called to Bedford by the death of his brother-in-law, J. S. Terrill. . . .
Miss Kate Armstrong, after attending the Terrill funeral at Bedford, returned to Des Moines Sunday evening.
Bedford Free Press
Thursday March 9, 1899
Obituary
Rachel Hornbeck [Hornback] was born at Springfield, Pike County, Illinois, October 3, 1834. She was united in marriage to Dr. J. [oseph] R. Standley July 4, 1854. Of this union there were born two children, Ida May and Joseph P. [erry], who together with the father mourn their loss.
Mrs. Standley united with the M. E. church in the early fifties, and remained faithful to her vows until the hour of her death. A few hours before her death she said again and again "blessed be His name." She passed away at her home, surrounded by friends and loved ones, February 27, at seven o'clock a. m. Funeral services were held at in the Methodist church at Platteville, conducted by Rev. J. F. Gibson, of Leon, her former pastor, from these words: "I shall be satisfied when I awake in Thy likeness." Her remains were laid to rest in the Platteville cemetery.
She seemed to think from the very first that it was death and that she would never get well. She said: "I do not want to die, to leave this world, for it is a very beautiful world; but I am so sick." Surely she gave expression to the thought of the poet who said:
I would not live always; no, welcome
the tomb;
Since Jesus hath lain there I dread
not its gloom.
There sweet be my rest till He bid me
arise,
To hail him in triumph descending the
skies.
I would not live always; I ask not to
stay
Where storm after storm rises dark
o'er the way;
The few lurid mornings that dawn on
us here
Are enough for life's woes, full enough
for its cheer.
[STANDLEY, RACHEL HORNBECK]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, March 2, 1899
Mrs. Standley Dead
Mrs. Standley, beloved wife of Dr. J. [oseph] R. Standley, died at her home in Platteville Sunday night, having suffered several weeks with pneumonia, aged 64 years. The funeral services were conducted at 11 o'clock Tuesday morning by Rev. Carl Brown, of Blockton, after which the remains were laid to rest in the Platteville cemetery, followed by a large concourse of sorrowing friends and relatives.
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday January 14, 1943 [p. 1]
Wm. A. Miller Dies This Morning
W. [illiam] A. [rchibald] Miller died at his home in Bedford at 10 o'clock this morning after a long illness. He is survived by two sisters, Miss Frances Miller and Miss Jessie Miller, both of the home.
The funeral services will be held at the Wetmore Funeral Home at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Archie A. Ross of the Presbyterian Church. Burial will be in the Graceland cemetery.
Times-Republican
Thursday March 15, 1923
Obituary
Clara Amelia Wilson was born 1 ½ miles southeast of Conway, on June 29th, 1881, and died at her home in Bedford on Wednesday, March 7, 1923, at the age of 41 years, and 9 months. The funeral services were held at the residence, conducted by Rev. M. A. Gable on Thursday afternoon, March 8th, at 3:00 o'clock, after which the body was laid to rest in the Bedford cemetery.
She was married to John M. Blake on June 21, 1900. To this union 8 children were born, all of whom are left to mourn the loss of a mother. She was a daughter of Chas. C. [low] and Mary [Ellen Burgess] Wilson. Her father preceded her in death about 5 years. The mother, one brother and one sister are left to mourn her death.
The eight motherless children have the deepest sympathy of the entire community in the loss of their best friend, "Mother."
[Blake, Clara Amelia Wilson]
Times-Republican
Thursday March 8, 1923 [p. 1]
Mrs. John Blake Dies
After a lingering illness of about three weeks that started with a bad case of the "flu," which later developed into pneumonia, Mrs. John Blake [Clara Amelia Wilson] passed away to a brighter life on Wednesday afternoon about 4 o'clock. Mrs. Blake was the mother of a large family, leaving besides her husband, 8 children, who will mourn a mother's loss. All were present at the bedside when the end came. Funeral services were held at the family home in north Bedford this afternoon at 2:00 o'clock, conducted by Rev. M. A. Gable of the Methodist church and interment was made in the Bedford cemetery.
[BLAKE, CLARA AMELIA WILSON]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, March 8, 1923
Mrs. John Blake Dies
Mrs. John Blake died at her home in Bedford yesterday evening at 5 o'clock from an attack of influenza and pneumonia. She was soon to give birth to a child and this condition together with the sickness, hastened her death. She has been ill for several days. The funeral will be held this afternoon at three o'clock. A large family of children are left motherless and the sympathy of the entire community goes out to them and the husband in this sad hour.
Bedford Free Press
Thursday March 9, 1899
At A Ripe Old Age
Wednesday, March 8, 1899, at 9:40 a. m., occurred the death of Alfred Thirkield, aged nearly 89 years. His death occurred at the home of his son, J.[ames] M. Thirkield, southwest of Bedford. A number of relatives have been telegraphed for, and the funeral services will be held some time tomorrow at the M. E. church. The remains will be taken back to the old home of deceased at Franklin, Ohio, for burial.
[THIRKIELD, ALFRED]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, March 16, 1899
Most Impressive Services
The Last Sad Rites Over the Bier of Alfred Thirkield Most Solemn and Impressive
The last issue of the Free Press contained a brief notice of the death of Alfred Thirkield. The funeral exercises were conducted at the M. E. church by Rev. A. H. Collins at 3 o'clock Friday, March 10. A large number were present to pay tribute to the dead. The sermon was impressive and solemn and more than one eye was dimmed with tears. The floral offerings were profuse and beautiful and were emblematical of the pure and noble life of deceased. After the services, the body was borne to the depot where it was shipped to Franklin, Ohio for burial by the side of his wife. The following were the pall bearers: J. W. Paul, Edwin Houck, W. F. Johnston, Frank Dunning, E. R. Fowler and Melchor Payton.
Obituary – Alfred Thirkield was born June 9, 1810 and died at the home of his son, James M. Thirkield, March 8, 1899. He was born in Brownsville, Pa. In 1817 his parents moved to Franklin county, Ohio, where he lived until 1835. He then returned to Pennsylvania where he married Cassie Manown, daughter of James Manown, of Monongahela City, where they resided several years; after which they removed to Ohio. They lived together 51 years. His wife died 12 years ago; since that time, he has made his home with his son, James M. of Bedford and Frank L. of Sacramento, Cal.
Alfred Thirkield united with the M. E. church in January 1828 and was a faithful member for 71 years. He was converted at the Sacramento altar and received into the church by Bishop Haven, who was then traveling the circuit as a circuit preacher. Alfred Thirkield always had at heart his Master's interest; was a faithful Sunday school superintendent for years and helped to erect many churches. He spoke of dying with cheerfulness, willingness and a bright hope in the future.
Times-Republican
Thursday March 3, 1921 p. 3
J. M. Thirkield Dead
Word was received by Frank Dunning, Monday, announcing the death of J. [ames] M. Thirkield, at his home near Mansfield, Mo. The news came as a shock to his many friends in Bedford.
In September 1872 he came to Bedford and engaged in the grocery business, which he conducted for several years. He was born in Monongahela City, Washington County, Penn., removed with his parents to Ohio, when a small boy, residing at Franklin, Warren County, where he received a liberal education. From Franklin high school he advanced to college at Delaware, Ohio, where he completed a thorough practical business education. He at once embarked in the dry goods trade, and continued with that business until the war broke out. He was among the first to step to the front, enlisting April 14, 1861. Serving out the call for 100 days enlistment, he at once reenlisted for the three years service. But few of our noble heroes underwent more hardships and privations than he. At one time he was a prisoner under Gen. Kirby Smith. Served in the 12th, 154th and 194th O. V. I., as a reward for long and faithful service in the ranks, he was put on detailed service in the post quartermasters department at Nashville, Tenn., where he remained for nearly two years.
He was married to Miss Sarah J. [ane] Sweeney, in Ohio, November 12th, 1868, who has been his constant companion through sunshine and shadow from that day to the present. Mr. Thirkield way back in the 70's was bookkeeper in the old Taylor County Bank, after which he conducted a stationery store and then the grocer business. During his long years of residence in Bedford he made many warm friends and was known on many occasions to drive the blues clean away from the most discouraged farmer by his happy jokes. He was an active member in nearly all the Civic societies in Bedford.
The body will arrive on the noon train tomorrow and the Masons will meet the body at the train and go direct to the cemetery. The Masons will have charge. A short service will be held at the grave by Rev. Gable. Interment at the Bedford cemetery.
The heartfelt sympathy of many friends goes out to the sorrowing widow in her great sorrow.
[THIRKIELD, JAMES MARION]
Mansfield Mirror (Mansfield, Missouri), Thursday, March 3, 1921
This community lost one of its respected citizens Saturday in the passing away of James Marion Thirkield. Mr. Thirkield was born November 6th, 1841, in Monongohela City, Pennsylvania and died at 1:30 pm Saturday February 29, 1921, at his home in Mansfield, Missouri aged 79 years, 3 months and 20 days.
He was married at Xenia on November 12, 1868, to Sarah J. Sweney who is left to mourn the loss of a most devoted husband and companion. Their only child passed away in infancy. Decedent served with the Union Army throughout the Civil War.
He was a Methodist of a pioneer Methodist family and was a cousin of Bishop W. F. Thirkield of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He lived a devout Christian life and was for a number of years superintendent of the Methodist Sunday School at Bedford, Iowa. He was a prominent Mason and a member of the Eastern Star, Odd Fellows, and Modern Woodsmen.
His life was devoted to mercantile pursuits, and he was a thorough business man, following in the footsteps of his father and uncle. Beginning as a clerk in his uncle's store in Xenia, Ohio, he later entered business for himself continuing in his chosen line of work until forced to retire from a nervous breakdown after a long business career in Xenia, Ohio and Bedford, Iowa. Following his retirement from business, he engaged in farming, moving here about 20 years ago and during his residence here he gained an enviable place in the hearts of our people for his whole souled actions and cheerful disposition.
"Uncle Jim" as he was familiarly known, had a smile and a cheerful word for all and by his unfailing optimism and thoughtfulness for the happiness of others, he endeared himself to our people as but few men have done.
A brother, Frank, resides in San Francisco, California and is now ill in a hospital. Another brother residing in Indiana, is a traveling salesman. Mrs. Thirkield's brother, George Sweney, of Pasadena, California started for Mansfield but became ill in Fort Scott, Kansas and was unable to continue the journey.
Mr. Thirkield has been ailing all winter and was unable to do much except to oversee the work on the place, being a victim of smothering spells on account of heart trouble from which he suffered. He knew the end was near and was prepared to go.
While milking the cows Friday evening, he suffered an attack of the heart and fell over but was able to get up and come to the house, but for a while was unable to speak. Medical aid was summoned and everything possible was done for him, but he suffered severely all night and passed away Saturday afternoon.
He was conscious of the fact the end was near and said he was ready to go, his only request being for the Masons to conduct the funeral and for the people to look after his wife after he was gone. He was unselfish to a fault and all with whom he was associated speak of his life in the highest terms. He died in the faith of salvation and with the hope of everlasting life. The Masons had charge of the funeral which was conducted at 2 pm today by Rev. Peterson at the Methodist church. Interment was in the Mansfield Cemetery.
[THIRKIELD, JAMES MARION]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, March 3, 1921
Death of Jas. M. Thirkeild.
Information has been received here telling of the death of one of the pioneers of this vicinity, James M. Thirkeild, which occurred last Saturday at Mansfield, Mo. Deceased was about 77 years of age at the time of his death.
The arrangements made the first of the week were for a Masonic ceremony and burial here in the Bedford cemetery, but word has been received today from a Masonic officer in Mansfield telling that Mrs. Thirkeild had changed her plans and that the body of her husband will be buried in Mansfield. This information reaches us as we go to press.
Deceased was closely connected with the business life of the city here years ago, moving from this vicinity about twenty years ago. He was bookkeeper in the old Taylor County Bank in 1873, interested as a merchant in Bedford, farmed in Ross Township, and was in many ways associated with the civic and religious life of the community.
[Woods, Harriet "Hattie" Welty]
Times-Republican
Thursday July 3, 1930 p. 7
Mrs. John H. Woods
Mrs. John H. Woods passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. George Wolfe, in Des Moines, Saturday, June 21. The funeral services were held in Conway, Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Clark M. Crowell of Bedford. Interment was made in the Conway cemetery.
Hattie Woods, daughter of Henry and Lydia [Eiker] Welty was born in Maryland, February 28, 1851. At an early age her parents moved near Galesburg, Ill., where she grew to womanhood. She was one of a family of nine children, all having preceded her in death except one sister, the oldest of the family, and who is now in her 90th year and a resident of Kansas City. She united with the Old School Presbyterian church at an early age and was at the time of her death a member of the Highland Park Presbyterian church of Des Moines. In the year 1868 she was united in marriage to John H. Woods. They became pioneers of Iowa, locating at Bedford in 1874. To this union three children were born: Sara Ellen and Harvey Lorin, who with their father, preceded Mrs. Woods in death. The surviving daughter is Myrtle, who is Mrs. George Wolfe of Des Moines, and who the mother made her home with for the past seventeen years.
Mrs. Woods was an old time resident of Bedford and will be remembered by many here. She was a sister-in-law of Mrs. Frank Snyder. The daughter has the sympathy of many Bedford friends.
[Stephens, John Shepherd "Jack", Jr.]
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday July 27, 1939 [p. 1]
Jack Stephens Dies
Jack Stephens, son of John Stephens of Gravity, died in a hospital at Fresno, Calif., according to word received by the father Monday morning. The body is being returned to Gravity the last of the week for burial.
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday June 15, 1933 [p. 1]
J. E. Lovell Dies At Home Here
Prominent Citizen and Mason Succumbs Wednesday
J. [ames] E. [mery] Lovell, prominent Bedford citizen, died at his home in south Bedford Wednesday shortly after noon, following an illness of less than a week.
He was taken ill about 6 o'clock Friday evening when he suffered a hemorrhage of the spinal cord, while at work at his home, and was found lying in the yard. He was conscious until the last, death coming quite unexpectedly.
Funeral services will be held at the home at 2:30 o'clock Friday afternoon, followed by the Masonic services at the mausoleum.
Lovell was born February 9, 1874 at Bowling Green, Ky. He was married to Jeannette Vanderpool October 9, 1905. They moved to Bedford in 1907, making their home here since that time. Surviving relatives are the wife and two nephews, John W. Lovell of Louisville, Ky. and Emery Lovell of Bowling Green, Ky.
He served as secretary to the Masonic bodies in Bedford for the past twenty-one years. He also filled the office of city clerk for seventeen years and acted as secretary to the Bedford Community Club for ten years.
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday June 15, 1933 [p. 1]
Samuel Moser Dies
Samuel Moser, the youngest brother of the late C. [hristian] H. Moser of Bedford, died at his home in Upper Sandusky, O., Sunday, following a stroke of paralysis a week before. Burial was made in Ohio.
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday April 4, 1935 p. 5
Mrs. Cornelia Moser Died This Morning
Mrs. Cornelia [Allyn] Moser, 72, died at the home of Mrs. J. Fred Besco at 5:15 o'clock this morning, after having been in failing health for some time.
Short services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home this afternoon and the body was then taken to Omaha, her former home, where services will be held and burial will be made.
Mrs. Moser was a sister of Mrs. John B. [rahm] Dowell [Nettie] of Bedford.
[Moser, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Graff]
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday October 23, 1958 p. 6
Mrs. U. G. Moser Died In Utah
Mrs. U. [lysses] G. [rant] Moser, 92, who will be remembered in Bedford as Lizzie Graff, died in Salt Lake City, Utah, Tuesday, October 21. Last rites and burial will be in Salt Lake City. Her husband preceded her in death. She was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Graff [Anna Mary Yenni] of Bedford.
Times-Republican
Thursday August 27, 1931
Ulysses Grant Moser
Ulysses Grant Moser, 67, president of the Hemenway & Moser Company, pioneer Salt Lake wholesale and retail cigar firm, died at his home, 1154 First Avenue, at 10:15 a. m., Saturday, from a heart attack, following a lingering illness.
Funeral services were held at 3 p. m., Monday at the Masonic temple. Burial was in Mt. Olivet cemetery.
Mr. Moser was born March 16, 1864, in Bedford, Ia., a son of Reuben A. and Rebecca [Ann] Raynolds Moser. He was graduated from the public high school at Bedford and from the Iowa State University at Iowa City. He then became a road salesman for G. W. Chase & Sons Candy Company of St. Joseph, Mo., being associated with that firm for 11 years. He joined the Best & Russell Cigar Company in 1896 as a salesman and traveled throughout the west. During his travels Mr. Moser met Oscar G. Hemenway, who since has died. In 1900 they founded the institution which now is known as the Hemenway & Moser Company. Mr. Moser became president of the company upon the death of Mr. Hemenway, and his son, John R. [eynolds] Moser, became vice president. Just before the world war Mr. Moser established branches throughout the Pacific Northwest. He was a member of the Rotary club, chamber of commerce, Salt Lake lodge No. 85, B. P. O. E., and the original Blue lodge at McCook, Nebr. He also was a 32nd degree Mason and a Shriner. Until a year ago he was an active member of the country club. He also was a member of the United Commercial Travelers. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Elizabeth Graff Moser; son, John R.[eynolds] Moser, and two grandchildren, Mary Lou and Joan Moser, all of Salt Lake.
Times-Republican
Tuesday February 6, 1906
Death of Mrs. Moser
Died at 7:40 p. m., Friday, February 2, 1906, at her residence in the north part of this city, Mrs. Rebecca A. [nn] Raynolds Moser, aged 75 years, 10 months and 11 days.
Rebecca A. [nn] Raynolds was born March 21, 1839, in Scioto County, Ohio. She was married in 1849 to Reuben A. Moser and moved to Wapello County, Iowa in 1850 at the time of early immigration to this state. There they lived on a farm until 1852 when they moved to Marion County, and in 1856 to Taylor County near Lexington, where they purchased and improved a farm. In 1867 they moved to Bedford.
Mr. Moser died May 9, 1884. The children born to them are Dorus C. [layton] and Elmer E. [llsworth], of Oberlin, Kansas, Ulysses Grant, of Salt Lake City, Eddis Sherman, of Kansas City, May F. [lorence] of Bedford and three others who died in childhood. Mrs. J. [ohn] S. [aylor] Boyd [Similda Elton Raynolds] of Bedford is the last remaining sister of Mrs. Moser.
The death of Mrs. Moser removes from our midst one who was loved by all who knew her.
Although she had been an invalid for years she was always cheerful and thinking of others in affliction. Her kindness in sorrow and her thoughtfulness in sickness will long be held in loving remembrance by many in Bedford.
She united with the church before she was sixteen years old and has always lived a constant Christian life.
She was a faithful wife and a devoted mother and it can well be said of her, "Her children arise up and call her blessed, and her husband also praiseth her."
Funeral was held at 10 a. m. at the residence in the north part of the city, conducted by Rev. Thompson. Interment at Lexington cemetery.
[MOSER, REBECCA ANN RAYNOLDS]
Bedford Times-Republican (Bedford, Iowa), Tuesday, February 6, 1906
Elmer Moser of Oberlin, Kans., and U. [lysses] S. Moser of Salt Lake City arrived here on the late train Sunday evening to attend the funeral of their mother. Eddis S. [herman] Moser, another son, arrived here Saturday noon.
Times-Republican
Thursday March 19, 1931
Christian Moser
Christian [H.] Moser passed away at his home in west Bedford, Sunday morning at 1:50 o'clock, at the age of 81 years, 9 months and 7 days. The funeral services were held at the First Presbyterian church, Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. C. F. McMican, assisted by Rev. Mr. Young of Shambaugh. Interment was made in the Fairview cemetery.
Christian [H.] Moser was born June 8, 1849, at Biglow, Switzerland. When 5 years of age he came to the United States with his parents and settled at Upper Sandusky, Ohio. The farm where they first moved was the family home for many years and still belongs to the younger brother. He was one of a family of six children, all having departed this life, except the youngest brother, Samuel of Upper Sandusky. Jan. 13, 1875, he was united in marriage to Barbara Ann Ulrich, who survives. Soon after their marriage, in the same month, they came to Iowa and settled on a farm near Bedford, which place and vicinity has always been their home. As soon as Mr. and Mrs. Moser came to Bedford, they united with the First Presbyterian Church, where their membership has remained these many years. No children were born to this union, but they reared to womanhood Mrs. Moser's niece, Lizzie Ulrich, who is now Mrs. Enoch Larison of southwest of Bedford. Mr. Moser had been in failing health for many years and has been an invalid for the past three years. He was a patient sufferer and was always so pleased with any little thing a person would do for him. Mr. Moser is survived by his wife; a nephew, John Tribolet of Bedford, besides other relatives and a host of friends.
[Moser, Mary Frances Stephens Hall]
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday May 15, 1969 p. 2
Mrs. K. C. Moser Dies In Oregon
Mrs. Kenneth C. (Mary Frances) [Hall] Moser, 49, of Portland, Oregon, formerly of Gravity, died at Kearney Care Center there May 5, 1969.
She was born to John [Shriver] and [Della] Bertha [Thomas] Stephens in Bedford August 13, 1919. Mary attended the Gravity schools and was graduated from Gravity High School.
Mrs. Moser is survived by her husband, Kenneth C., one son, Stephen McDonald, Salem, Ore., two grandchildren, her stepmother, Bertha [Belle Gray] Stephens, Gravity; four sisters, Mrs. Glenn (Ruth) Woods, Cumberland, Ia., Mrs. Marvin (Dorothy) Ruyle, Olympia, Wash., Mrs. Oliver (Marjorie) Ray, Anderson, Calif., Mrs. Doyle (Annabel) Savage, Independence, Mo., other relatives and many friends.
Funeral services were held May 9, 1969 at Mikeworth's Peninsula Funeral Home in Portland with interment in Portland.
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday June 22, 1933 p. 4
Hopkins
Ingram Services Held
Funeral services were held at Shearer church last Tuesday [June 18th] for Grant Ingram, 68, who died at the hospital in Maryville [June 11th] following an operation. His entire life was spent in this vicinity. He had never married.
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday August 10, 1961 p. 5
Rolla Burch Dies In Denver, Colo.
Rolla [Boyd] Burch, 80, a former resident of Bedford, died in Denver, Colo., Friday, August 4. Last rites and burial were in Denver Monday, August 7.
Mr. Burch is survived by his wife, the former Amy [May] Bothel, who is a sister of Mrs. George Jared [Hattie Grace] of Bedford; by a daughter, Dorothea, Mrs. Kenneth Siedell and her husband of Chicago; and by six grandchildren. He was an uncle of Mrs. Eldon Pool and Franklin Burch of Bedford and is the last of his family to be taken.
Bedford Times-Press
Thursday August 10, 1961 p. 5
Attend Kernen Funeral
Among those from a distance, who attended last rites in Bedford last week for Jake Kernen, included the following: Mr. and Mrs. Marion Erhart, Miss Patricia Erhart, Omaha; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kernen, Gillion, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Brown and Joni Lea, Ames; Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sawhill, Miss Mary Eyleen Sawhill, Winterset; Miss Lucile Miller, C. J. McCrea, Shenandoah; Mrs. Mattie Kernen, Mrs. Gertie Kernen, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Kernen, Villisca; Mrs. Louise Rider, Gilbert Rider, Mr. and Mrs. Will Kernen, Nodaway; Mrs. Bruce Sleep, Clarinda.