Mary (FERGUSON) McDONALD

FERGUSON, MCDONALD

Posted By: Sharon R Becker (email)
Date: 12/17/2008 at 05:06:16

Decatur County Journal
Leon, Decatur County, Iowa
December 20, 1888

OBITUARY--MRS. MARY F. MCDONALD

Mrs. Mary F. McDONALD was born November 13, 1824, in Franklin County, Ohio. Her maiden name was Mary FERGUSON. In 1843 she was united in marriage with Mahlon McDONALD at her old Ohio home. Four children were born of this union, two of whom survive. In 1850 she came to Iowa and for five years the family was not permanently settled. In 1855 they came to Decatur County. A final move was made to Kellerton in 1885 and in this pleasant home on December 9, 1888, she fell asleep in the precious hope of the Savior.

Her life was almost inimitable, by reason of her strong hold upon the eternal verities. Her hope undimmed grew brighter until the dawn of heavenly day swallowed up her faith in the vision of immortality. For 46 years she had lived a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her virtues were but the reflected light of her Redeemer's righteousness. Those who knew her loved her unceasingly. Her ministries of love and mercy leave her name graven upon many grateful hearts. If every loving deed and word of hers were to become a flower upon her tomb, that floral monument would touch the skies and fill the world with sweet perfume.

The funeral services were conducted by Rev. MATHENY, who spoke feelingly and comfortingly from Rev. 14:23, "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, from henceforth, yea, saith the spirit, that they may rest from their labors and their works do follow them".

Her character and the influence she leaves behind her fully exemplify these golden words. There is no better thing in this world than to have lived right and be sadly missed from the old accustomed places. The writer realizes how much we will miss the dear familiar face of Mrs. MCDONALD when returning to the old home she loved so well. Standing by her bedside at her near departure he saw and heard the glorious signs of the Christian's victory over death. So may it be with us all when we enter the shades of that night whose coming morn shall be in paradise.

-- J. L. JACKSON
Transciption by Sharon R. Becker, December of 2008