Obituaries
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com
 
 

[BEAL, BETHEL JUDD]

Bedford Free Press, Tuesday, March 30, 1915, p. 8

B. J. Beal

Bethel J. Beal, who after a lingering illness, died at the home of his son, E. [dwin] J. [oseph] Beal, northwest of Bedford, age 83 years, 11 months and 1 day. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the home, conducted by Rev. Robb of the Christian church. Interment was made at Fairview.

Bethel J. [udd] Beal was born April 27, 1831 in Hamilton County, Ohio [Indiana]. He was educated and raised in this county and devoted most of his life in farming, but taught school several terms. He was married September 27, 1860, to Miss Caroline Essington. To this union were born five children, Bethel John Beal of Ft. McGinnis, Mont., Wesley, Atwood, Kan., Elmer Winfield, of Bedford, Juliette, deceased, and Elmer J. of Bedford. All living children were in attendance at the funeral.

Mr. Beal came to Iowa in 1867, where he resided until the time of his death. He was a firm believer in the Universalist faith.

[BEAL, BETHEL JUDD]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, April 1, 1915, p. 4

B. J. Beal

B. [ethel] J. [udd] Beal, who had been a resident of Taylor County for about half a century, passed away at the home of his son, E. [dwin] J. [oseph] Beal, in Bedford township, and funeral services were held at the residence Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. W. E. Robb of the First Church of Christ. Interment was in Fairview cemetery. His age was 83 years and 11 months.

In his early years Mr. Beal devoted some time to teaching school, and he never gave up being a student, in his later years finding much pleasure not only in keeping up with the times but in literature. He was always intensely interested in public affairs and was one of the few Fremont republicans left. He was a firm believer in the Universalist faith.

Bethel J. Beal was born April 27, 1831, in Hamilton County, Indiana, being reared and receiving his education in that locality. September 27, 1860, he was married to Caroline Essington, and they were the parents of five children: B. J. Beal of Fort McGinness, Mont.; Wesley Beal of Atwood, Kan.; Elmer W. Beal of Bedford; Juliette Beal, who died in infancy; Edwin J. Beal of Bedford. All of the surviving children were in attendance at the funeral. Mr. Beal came to Taylor County in 1867 and was one of the well-known farmers of the locality during his active life.

 

[BEAL, ETHEL MAY]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 17, 1908 p. 8

The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Beal passed away just five hours after first seeing the light of day Monday. It was laid to rest in Fairview cemetery Tuesday after a brief service conducted by Elder Geo. A. Hendrickson. Sympathy is extended to the sorrowing parents.

[BENT, CURTIS]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 1, 1951, [p. 1]

Heart Attack Takes Curtis Bent, 75

Curtis Bent, 75, died here last Thursday following a heart attack. Mr. Bent was a mason in Bedford many years before he retired from active work because of failing health.

Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the Shum Funeral home. Rev. J. A. Currie of Tarkio officiated. Burial was in Fairview cemetery. The Odd Fellows burial service was given.

Mr. Bent was born May 9, 1875, in Bedford, the youngest son of Dr. Luther Bent and Elizabeth Lowe Bent. He lived his entire life in the home where he was born.

He married Myrtle L. [ena] Stephens Jan. 16, 1912. She preceded him in death in 1936. His parents, five sisters and five brothers also preceded him.

He is survived by one niece, Mary Cloud, who was taken into his home at the time of the death of her mother.

Mr. Bent was a member of the Bedford Presbyterian Church, holding offices as deacon and elder until his health failed. He was a member of Bedford lodge, I. O. O. F.

[BENT, MYRTLE LENA STEPHENS]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 30, 1936, [p. 1]

Mrs. Curtis Bent Succumbs July 25

Mrs. Curtis Bent died at her home in Bedford Saturday, July 25, after a lingering illness.

The funeral services were held at the First Presbyterian church at 10:30 o’clock Monday morning, conducted by Rev. Robert Boshen. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery.

Myrtle Lena Stephens was born at Hawleyville, Iowa, Aug. 1, 1870. She was the daughter of Vincent and Mary Stephens and was one of a family of seven children. Her parents and three brothers preceded her in death.

On January 16, 1912 she was married to Curtis C. Bent of Bedford and was a helpful, loving wife.

Surviving with the husband are a sister and two brothers, Mrs. Harvey Dennis of Lenox, Vincent Stephens of Kansas City, Mo., and Calvin Stephens of Elwood, Neb. There are also a number of nieces and nephews.

In early life she united with the Methodist church at Guss and later transferred her membership to the Methodist Church at Bedford. After her marriage she became a member of the Presbyterian Church and was a helpful member there as long as her health would permit. She was also a member of the Rebekah lodge and of the Order of Eastern Star.

[BOWERS, STEVEN HAROLD]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 6, 1986

Steven Harold Bowers

Services for Steven Harold Bowers, 16, Colorado Springs, Co., were held January 31 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, officiated by Rev. E. M. Tabelisma and Rev. Carl Cummings. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford.

Steven died January 26, 1986 in Colorado Springs, Co.

Steven Harold Bowers, son of Duane Bowers and Sheryl Spies Bowers was born in West Germany, on February 9, 1969. He lived with his parents in West Germany during the time his father was stationed there while in the service of his country. They were stationed in several other locations before returning to the United States. In 1983 they retired in Colorado Springs, Colorado where they have continued to reside.

Steven was a student at the William J. Palmer High School in Colorado Springs. He was a capable student and he enjoyed his associations with fellow students and teachers. Recently he had been accepted into the Naval Cadets Program and it was his wish to be accepted into the U.S. Navy upon completion of high school.

He was baptized in the Bedford United Methodist Church and he attended the United Methodist Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Steven was preceded in death by his grandfathers: Harold Bowers and Durward Spies.

Left to cherish his memory are his parents, Duane and Sheryl Bowers of the home; sisters: Susan, Deborah, Diane, Stacy and Suzanne; his grandmothers, Avis Bowers of Bedford; and Louise Spies of Wiota, Iowa; uncles, aunts, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Steven will long be remembered by his family and friends as a good and kind lad and he will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.   

[BRANIN, EULIA FINN]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 12, 1968, p. 10

Eulia Branin, 89, Rites December 8

Funeral services for Mrs. Roscoe (Eulia) Branin, 89, of Bedford, held December 8 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home, Bedford, were conducted by Rev. Carl Cummings. Mrs. Branin died Dec. 6 in Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Interment was in Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Eula Finn Branin, daughter of Daniel C. [orwin] and Nancy Elizabeth Yeates Finn was born November 30, 1879 in Columbus, Kansas.

She grew to adulthood in the community where she was born, graduating from high school in Columbus, Kansas.

She was united in marriage in 1903 to Roscoe R. [aymond] Branin and they resided in Oklahoma where Mr. Branin was employed by a large lumber business and later they moved to Philadelphia, Penn and Merchantville, New Jersey where he was a public accountant.

They moved to California [returning to] Iowa in March 1942 when they lived on a farm east of Bedford until they moved to Bedford because of failing health. Mr. Branin passed way November 3, 1965.

Mrs. Branin enjoyed her friends and acquaintances and she was the last of her family and has no relative living.

She will be remembered in the Bedford community as a niece of the late Senator G. L. Finn.

[BRANIN, ROSCOE RAYMOND]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 11, 1965, p. 6

Roscoe Branin Rites Nov. 5

Funeral services for Roscoe R. Branin, 87, long time Taylor County resident, were held November 5 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home with Carl Cummings officiating. Mr. Branin died at Saint Francis Hospital in Maryville, Mo., November 3, 1965. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

The following obituary was included in the services.

Roscoe Raymond Branin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chester Branin, was born Feb. 11, 1878 at Columbus, Kans. He attended school and grew to manhood in the community where he was born.

On November 25, 1903 he was united in marriage to Eulia Finn Brann at Columbus, Kansas.

He was employed in the lumber business at Oklahoma City, Okla., for a time and later moved to Philadelphia, Penn., where he worked for a Certified Public Accountant firm. Later they lived in Merchantville, New Jersey, and then in Los Angeles, Calif. In 1942 they moved to a farm about eight miles east of Bedford. In recent years they had lived in Bedford, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by two brothers and parents.

Surviving him are his wife of Bedford, Iowa, one sister, Elsie Branin of Seattle, Wash.

Early in his youth he became a member of the Christian Church. Mr. Branin lived a long, useful life and possessed a love for his fellow men. He will be missed by all who knew him.

[CHITTY, IDA INDIANA MILLION]

Gravity Independent, Thursday, December 20, 1945, [p. 1]

Mrs. Ida Chitty

The body of Mrs. Ida Chitty was brought here for burial, Wednesday. She was living with her daughter in Fremont, Nebraska, and passed away December 14.

Funeral services were held in Fremont December 18. Burial beside her husband in the Gravity cemetery. Rev. Bertha Brown had the committal service.

[CHITTY, LOTTIE MAY RASCHER]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 21, 1965, p. 8

Lottie Chitty Rites Oct. 17

Funeral services for Lottie May Chitty of Sharpsburg, held October 17 at the east Shum-Novinger Funeral Home, were conducted by Carl Cummings. Mrs. Chitty died October 15 at Pearl Terrace Manor in Bedford. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity.

Lottie May, daughter of Charles and Lena Rascher, was born Feb. 14, 1880 in Taylor Co., Iowa.

She was united in marriage to Frank Chitty on Feb. 14 [19], 1899. One son, Ray, born to this union, passed away when he was five years old.

Since moving to Sharpsburg, she has been active in the Presbyterian Church.

Lottie is survived by one brother, Fred Rascher of Nodaway; and one sister, Minnie Nagel of Sharpsburg; a sister-in-law, a brother –in-law and many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, father, mother, six sisters and two brothers.

She was kind and loving and was willing to help in time of need. She will be greatly missed by her many relatives and friends.

[FINN, NANCY ELIZABETH YATES]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 25, 1946, [p. 1]

Nancy E. Finn Dies At Branin Home

Mrs. Nancy E. [lizabeth] Finn died at the home of her daughter, Eula Finn Branin east of Bedford Saturday, April 20. The funeral services were held at the Branin home at 2 o’clock Tuesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. G. L. Hufstader.

Mrs. Finn was born December 2, 1856 in Putnam County, Indiana. She was married to Daniel Corwin Finn in 1878 [1879]. They were the parents of the one daughter, Mrs. Branin. Mrs. Finn moved to Bedford with her daughter from Los Angeles in March 1942.

[GUNSON, GEORGE EDWARD]

Bedford Free Press, Tuesday, August 22, 1916, [p. 1]

Infant Son of Mrs. John Gunson Dies Saturday

George, the eighteen months old son of Mrs. Gunson, died Saturday morning. The funeral services were held at the home northeast of Bedford Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. C. C. Hatcher. Interment was made in the Fairview cemetery. He leaves to mourn his mother, two brothers and one sister. The father died in February.

[GUNSON, LILLIAN ANN “LILLY” RAWLINGS]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 10, 1966.  [p. 2

Services Sat. For Mrs. Gunson

Funeral services Sat. For Mrs. Gunson

Funeral services for Mrs. John (Lillian) Gunson, 90, long time Taylor County resident, were held February 5 at the west Shum-Novinger Funeral Home with Carl Cummings and Rev. Ollie Odle officiating. Mrs. Gunson died in Bedford Feb. 2, 1966. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

The following obituary was included in the services.

Lillie Ann Rawlings, daughter of Nathan and Martha Jane Codgal Rawlings, was born March 27, 1875 at Petersburg, Ill. She was one of a family of 8 children, four brothers and three sisters, and the last of her family. She grew to adulthood and attended the public schools in the community where she was born.

On November 16, 1899 she was united in marriage to John Gunson and to them were born Jerry, Frank and Ruth and a son George who passed away when about one year of age.

They lived in Illinois until the year of 1904 when they moved to a farm about one mile north of Bedford. Her husband died in the year 1916 and she continued to reside on the farm until in later years she moved to Bedford.

Left to cherish her memory are Jerry Gunson and his wife Luverne of Denver, Colo.; Frank Gunson and his wife Ople of Blockton; Ruth Gunson Barks and her husband, Kenneth, of Sheridan, Mo.; five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

She was a member of the Baptist Church of Bedford, Iowa.

She was a kind and loving wife and mother, friend and neighbor and will be missed by all who knew her.

Friends and relatives attending the services were Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Gunson, Denver, Colo.; Mr. and Mrs. Dean Barks and sons, Ottumwa, Ia.; Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Winston, Shawnee Mission, Kans.; Joe Gunson, Omaha, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. John Whitten, Jr., Clarinda; Mr. and Mrs. Beryl Waterman, Kansas City, Mo.; Miss Muriel Waterman, Des Moines, Ia.

[HAYES, JOHN JEFFERSON]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 3, 1945, p. 4

J. J. Hayes Dies At Creston Sunday

J. J. Hayes, a resident of the Bedford community for many years, died at his home in Creston Sunday, April 22, following a long illness. The funeral services were held at the Christian church in Creston, and burial was in the Bedford cemetery.

John J. [efferson] Hayes, son of Samuel and Elizabeth Hayes, was born near Antioch, Ohio, September 19, 1863, being aged 82 years, 5 months and 28 days at the time of his death.

His boyhood was spent in Ohio and Virginia and he later came to Bedford, where he was married to Anna Turner on September 9, 1887 [1888]. They made their home on a farm in Taylor County until retiring in 1925, when they moved to Creston.

He is survived by his wife, four daughters and three sons: Mrs. Joe Townsend and Mrs. Clark Blakely of Creston, Mrs. Roy Olmsted of Housen, Idaho; Mrs. Harlan Grimm of Sharpsburg, Glen Hayes of Conway, Cecil Hayes of Conception Junction, Missouri, and O. P. Hayes, chief machinist and warrant officer in the U. S. Navy. Also by twenty-one grandchildren, five great grandchildren and two sisters.

In early manhood he united with the Church of Christ.

[HEATER, OLIVER]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 31, 1935, [p. 1]

Oliver Heater, 80, Dies at St. Joseph

Oliver Heater, at one time a resident of Bedford, died at the home of his son, Ralph Heater in St. Joseph last week. He was past eighty years of age. The funeral services were held in St. Joseph Friday and the body brought to Bedford, where burial was made in the Fairview cemetery.

He is survived by four sons, William Heater, Ralph Heater, James Heater, and Charles Heater, all of St. Joseph. Mrs. Heater died many years ago.

[LONG, ALLEN]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, June 13, 1912, p. 1, 5

Allen Long was born October 31, 1831, near Greenfield, Ind., and departed this life at his home in Gravity, Sunday.

In early life he moved with his parents to Illinois where he lived until 1850, when he went to California. After spending nine years there he left California, coming by way of the Isthmus of Panama and New York City to Page County, locating with his parents on a farm near Clarinda. There on Nov. 18, 1860 he was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Cunning. To this union four children were born, all of whom survive him except one son, Erastus, who died in infancy.

Soon after marrying, Mr. Long settled with his family on a farm one mile south of New Market where for thirty-three years they made their home; but thirteen years ago he moved with his family to Gravity, where his life has completed a ripe and beautiful old age. He was a devoted husband and father, a kind neighbor, an upright citizen and a friend to the friendless. He was quick, bright and cheery to all, a good true man. From boyhood boys a faithful, consistent member of the Christian church.

He leaves to mourn his loss, his wife, who had been his faithful companion for more than half a century, three children, Dr. O. [rlando] V. Long, Mrs. L. Margason and Alice Long all of Gravity; two brothers, Josephus Long of Sibley, Mo., and Anson Long of New Market; two sisters, Mrs. Nancy Snodgrass of New Market and Mrs. Jane McKinnon of Riverside, Cal.

The funeral service was conducted by W. L. Dunlavy in the Christian church in Gravity on Monday at 2:30 o’clock, after which the interment was made in the Gravity cemetery.

[LONG, ALLEN]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, June 13, 1912, p. 5

Allen Long, another of the old settlers of this county, died last Sunday morning at about 10 o’clock.

Mr. Long was 80 years of age. He came to Page county about 65 years ago, living for 33 years on one farm and has always been a reliable Christian gentleman, faithful to his church and one who has raised a family who are a credit to the community. The funeral services were held in the Christian church last Monday at 2:30 p. m. and interment was in the Gravity cemetery.

[LONG, ALLEN]
Bedford Times-Republican (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, June 20, 1912
GRAVITY – Allen Long, father of Dr. O. V. Long, died at his home here Sunday. The funeral services were held at the Christian church, Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Wade. Interment at Gravity cemetery.

[LONG, ELIZABETH CUNNING]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 30, 1915, p. 3

Mrs. Allen Long died Sunday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. L. A. Margason at Shenandoah. The remains were brought to Gravity and the funeral services were held from the Dr. O. [rlando] V. Long home Tuesday at 2:30 p. m. conducted by Elder W. L. Dunlavy. Interment at Gravity cemetery.

[LONG, ELIZABETH CUNNING]

Bedford Free Press, Tuesday, October 5, 1915, p. 2

GRAVITY

Dr. and O. [rlando] V. Long went to Shenandoah last Monday, called by the death of Mrs. Elizabeth Long.

[LONG, ELIZABETH CUNNING]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Tuesday, October 5, 1915
An Old Resident Dies.
Mrs. Elizabeth Long, mother of Dr. O. V. Long of Gravity, died September 26, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. L. E. Margason in Shenandoah. Funeral services were held at the Dr. Long home in Gravity last Tuesday, conducted by Rev. W. L. Dunlavy, assisted by Rev. Proctor. Interment was in the Gravity cemetery.
Mrs. Long was an old resident of the county, near New Market; her husband, Allen Long, died in 1912 and of the children there are living, Mrs. Margason of Shenandoah, Dr. Long, Gravity, and Miss Alice Long of Clarinda.

[LONG, ORLANDO Voss]

New Market Herald, Thursday, March 7, 1918, p. 4

Gravity and Vicinity

Word was received here Monday morning of the sudden death of Dr. O. [rlando] V. Long of this place. Dr. and Mrs. Long left here Friday with the view of going to Omaha, then to the Springs. The doctor’s death is a great shock to the entire community.

[LONG, ORLANDO V.]

Page County Democrat, Thursday, March 7, 1918, p. 3

Dr. Long Dies

Dr. O. [rlando] V. Long of Gravity died Monday morning at seven-thirty at the St. Joseph hospital in Omaha, where he had gone to consult with the doctors there concerning the need of an operation. He was accompanied to Omaha by his wife and his sister, Miss Alice Long of this city. Dr. Long had been practicing medicine in Gravity for the last twenty-five years, and is beloved and respected by the people of that town. He attended the Keokuk Medical College. He was 56 years old at the time of his death and is survived by his wife, a daughter, Mrs. Myrtle Edwards of Presho, S. D., and a son, Roy of Aberdeen, S. D., and two sisters, Miss Alice Long of Clarinda and Mrs. Lon Margason of Shenandoah.

The funeral is to be held Friday afternoon from the Methodist church at Gravity. Burial will take place in the Gravity cemetery.

[LONG, ORLANDO V.]

New Market Herald, Thursday, March 14, 1918, p. 2

The funeral services of Dr. O. V. Long were held Friday at 2 p. m. at the Methodist church conducted by the pastor Rev. Harwood, assisted by Rev. Linkleter, pastor of the Christian church here. He was given Masonic burial, as he was one of the oldest and an honorary member of the order. Friends and relatives from far and near were present at the services. Interment at Gravity cemetery.

[LONG, ORLANDO VOSS.]
Bedford Times-Republican (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, March 7, 1918
GRAVITY – Word was received here Monday morning of the sudden death of Dr. O.[rlando] V. Long at the hospital in Omaha.
The doctor and Mrs. Long left here Friday and it was tho't they would perhaps go to the springs where Dr. Long would take treatment. His sudden and unexpected death is a great shock to the community.

[LONG, ORLANDO VOSS]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Wednesday, March 13, 1918
GRAVITY – The funeral services of Dr. O. [rlando] V. Long was held Friday at 2 p. m. at the Methodist church conducted by the pastor, Rev. Harwood, assisted by Rev. Linkletter, pastor of the Christian church here. He was given Masonic burial as he was an honorary member of that order. Interment at Gravity cemetery.

[LONG, ORLANDO VOSS]
Bedford Times-Republican (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, March 14, 1918
GRAVITY – The funeral services of Dr. O. [rlando] V. Long were held Friday at 2 p. m., conducted by the pastor, Rev. Harwood, assisted by Rev. Linkletter, pastor of the Christian church. He was given a Masonic burial and many friends from far and near were present at the services. Interment at the Gravity cemetery.

 

[MASON, FRED W.]

Bedford Times-Republican, Tuesday, August 8, 1905, p. 5

Funeral of Fred Mason

Body Brought Half Way Across the Continent to Boyhood Home

The body of Fred W. Mason arrived here Sunday evening and was buring [buried] yesterday. His death occurred at Los Angeles, California at 9:15 p. m. on Sunday, July 30, after a short illness, and was due to enlargement of the heart.

Fred was born in Jackson township in this county, Jan. 12, 1883, and made this his home until 1901, when he went to California. He had many friends here and was held in high esteem by all who knew him.

During his illness he was nursed by Mrs. Nettie Evans and Roy Greenlee, both friends of his boyhood days. Roy accompanied the remains of his friend back to Bedford.

The funeral was held Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the home of R. [iley] H.[iram] Wolcott, grandfather of the deceased, conducted by Elder Lee Furgeson.

[MASON, FRED W.]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, August 10, 1905
Brought to Bedford For Burial
The body of Fred Mason, who died at Los Angeles, Cal., Sunday July 30, arrived here last Sunday evening. Deceased was born and resided in Taylor county until four years ago when he went to California. He had many friends here who mourn his death. Funeral services were held at the home of the deceased['s] grandfather, R. H. Wolcott, conducted by Elder Lee Furgeson. Interment at Fairview cemetery.

[MAXWELL, CHARLES M.]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, July 18, 1907, p. 4

Charles M. Maxwell Dead

Charles M. Maxwell was born in Missouri, October 12, 1869, and died July 11, 1907, at his home in Bedford from cancer of the neck, aged 37 years, 8 months and 29 days.

The deceased was the son of Thos. Maxwell, of this city, his mother having died a number of years ago. He came to Bedford when a small boy with his parents, and this has been his home since. He was married to Miss Mae Starkey a few years ago. The deceased was an industrious and honest young man and enjoyed good health until the dread disease which finally ended his career got into his system. There seemed from the very beginning to be no help for him and the last few months he grew rapidly worse.

The funeral was held at the home on Friday afternoon conducted by Elder Edgar Price and the burial was in Fairview cemetery. The bereaved wife and relatives have the sympathy of all.

[MAXWELL, CHARLES M.]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, July 18, 1907, p. 8

Death of Charles Maxwell

Chas. Maxwell died on Thursday evening at his home in the south part of the city.

The cause of his death was cancer. The disease first appeared about six months ago. A month ago his condition had become so serious that he went to Kansas City to consult a specialist. Some encouragement was offered him, and for a while the treatment seemed to do him some good. But the disease was only checked and soon he began growing rapidly worse until on Thursday the end came.

The deceased had been married several years, but has no children. He leaves to mourn him, his widow, his father, five brothers and two sisters.

The funeral was held at the home at 4:30 p. m. on Friday, conducted by Rev. Price. Interment at Fairview.

[MAXWELL, FLOY ELDORA WISDOM]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 12, 1978

Last Rites Held December 26 For Floy Maxwell

Funeral services for Mrs. Len (Floy Wisdom) Maxwell, 87, of Bedford, held December 26 at the Bedford United Methodist Church, were officiated by Rev. Dwayne Madsen. Mrs. Maxwell died December 23 at Bedford Manor, Bedford. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery.

Floy Wisdom Maxwell, daughter of Atty. Frank M. Wisdom and Dora King Wisdom was born at Blockton, Iowa, on March 6, 1890. She lived there until a young girl then moved to Bedford with her family.

She attended school in Bedford. She became a member of the Methodist Church at an early age and was a faithful attendant as long as health permitted and was a member of the choir many years.

On January 31, 1917, she was married to Leonard Maxwell. They became the parents of two beautiful daughters who shared their home and love. He passed away many years ago on March 27, 1951.

One daughter, Mary Jo Purcell, preceded her mother in death. Also preceding her were her parents, four brothers and one sister.

Surviving her are her daughter, Margaret Jane Maxwell Ebert, with her children, Mary Jane and William Len; also her husband Wes; two grandsons, Leon Edward Purcell, his wife, Mary, and little daughter Sarah and William Todd Purcell and their father, Lemuel Purcell; a sister, Delia Clark, who lives in California; two sisters-in-law; several nieces and nephews

She was devoted to her family and to her church.

[MAXWELL, LENONARD ISAAC “LEN”]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 29, 1951, [p. 1]

Len Maxwell died at Home Tues. Afternoon

Len Maxwell, 71, horse buyer in Bedford and community for many years, died unexpectedly at his home in Bedford late Tuesday afternoon, March 27. He had been in the country abut his usual work, when he complained of not feeling well, and passed away soon after reaching his home.

Funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral home this Thursday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Robert M. Peters. Burial was in Fairview cemetery.

Leonard Isaac Maxwell, one of the eight children of Thomas and Mary Ann Mode Maxwell, was born April 21, 1879 at Old Memory, now New Market. The family moved to Bedford when he was young and Len lived here the remainder of his life. He attended the Bedford schools and was a member of the Bedford Methodist church.

He was married Jan. 31, 1917, in St. Joseph, Mo., to Floy Wisdom of Bedford. To them were born two daughters, Mary Josephine, now Mrs. L. A. Purcell of Bedford, and Margaret, a student at Simpson college, Indianola.

Surviving with the wife and two daughters are the son-in-law, Lemuel A. Purcell; a grandson, Eddie Purcell; a sister, Mrs. Herbert Lockwood of Lincoln, Neb.; a brother, Tom Maxwell of Hamburg.

[MAXWELL, MARY ANN MODE]

Bedford Times-Republican, Tuesday, March 28, 1905, p. 2

Death of Mrs. Maxwell

From Saturday’s Daily

Mrs. Tom Maxwell died at her residence in the north part of the city this morning at 7 o’clock, aged 56 years, 7 months and 4 days.

Mrs. Maxwell has been an invalid for fourteen years. For some weeks her condition has been such to preclude all hopes of recovery, and though the end was not unexpected, death cannot come without causing sorrow to those who love the one whom the angel of death has called.

Mrs. Maxwell’s maiden name was Mary Ann Mode, and she was born in Indiana. Many years ago she emigrated with her husband to Iowa and settled in Bedford, where they have since resided.

The funeral will be held at the residence Monday morning at 10 o’clock.

[MAXWELL, MARY ANN MODE]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, March 30, 1905, p. 4

After a Lingering Illness

After a lingering illness of several years, in which she was a great yet patient sufferer, Mrs. Thomas Maxwell breathed her last at the family home Saturday morning March 25, at 7 o’clock, aged 56 years, 7 months and 4 days. For a long term of years Mrs. Maxwell has resided in Bedford, and her death will be deplored by many sympathizing friends and sorrowing relatives.

Mrs. Maxwell was born in Indiana in1839. She came with her parents to Taylor County at an early age, when there were only two houses in Bedford. She married Tom Maxwell in 1865, who survives her. Eight children were born to this union, all of whom are living, as follows:

Frank Maxwell, of Gaynor, Mo., Charlie, Mrs. Jane Hindman, Tom, Leonard, Albert, Mrs. Mary McKim and John, of Bedford, all of whom were present at the funeral.

The funeral services were conducted at the Baptist church by Rev. Jones. Interment in Fairview.

The family desires the Free Press to

[MAXWELL, MARY ANN MODE]
Bedford Times-Republican (Bedford, Iowa), Tuesday, March 28, 1905
Funeral of Mrs. Maxwell
The funeral of Mrs. Thomas Maxwell was held at the Baptist church at 10 o'clock this forenoon. The funeral sermon was delivered by Rev. Jones, and a large number of people were present to show their sympathy for the bereaved husband and family. Interment was made at Fairview cemetery.

[MAXWELL, REBECCA ELLEN “ELLA” MCNAIR DOWNING]

Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, October 14, 1948, [p. 1]

Services Held For Rebecca Maxwell

Had Been Clarinda Resident For 40 Years; 94 Years Old

Funeral service was held this Thursday afternoon at Walker funeral home for Rebecca Ellen Maxwell, who passed away October 11. Burial was at the Bedford cemetery. She was 94 years old at time of death.

Mrs. Maxwell had lived in Clarinda for the past 40 years.

[MAXWELL, REBECCA ELLEN “ELLA” MCNAIR DOWNING]

Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, January 27, 1949, p. 2

Rebecca E. Maxwell

Rebecca Ellen McNair Maxwell was born Sept 28, 1854, to Robert and Lucinda McNair in Ohio, and died October 11, 1948, at the age of 94 years and 14 days.

She married Christopher Columbus Downing and to this union four children were born: Annie, Frank, Mary and Millie. On Dec. 24, 1896, she married Frank Maxwell and two children were born to this union, Allen and Maggie. Since the death of Mr. Maxwell two years ago, she has made her home with her son, Allen. She had lived in Page County for 40 years.

She is survived by four daughters, Annie McDaniels of Newport, Ore, Mary McMillan of Bedford, Millie Carr of Fall City, Neb and Maggie Kendall of Colorado; two sons, Frank Downing of Gravity and Allen Maxwell of Clarinda; 25 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren.

[MAXWELL, THOMAS, 1836-1924]

Bedford Times-Republican, Monday, April 28, 1924, p. 3

Body of Thomas Maxwell Arrived

Thomas Maxwell died at the Soldiers hospital at Lincoln, Neb., Saturday and the body arrived in Bedford on the afternoon train today, and the remains were laid to rest in Bedford Cemetery. Mr. Maxwell was a former resident of Bedford, having left here about 10 years ago.

[MAXWELL, THOMAS, 1836-1924]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, May 1, 1924, [p. 1]

Obituary of Late Thomas Maxwell

Thomas Maxwell, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Maxwell, was born in Dennygaul [Donegal], Ireland, May 12th, 1836. He came with his parents to the United States when 3 years of age and lived in New York, and there was united in marriage to Mrs. Mary Calvin in 1866. To this union were born 7 children. The wife and one son preceded him in death. The remaining six children were present at the funeral services. They are Mrs. I. A. Hindman of Bedford, Thomas T., of Shenandoah, Leonard I., [saac] of Bedford, Bert of Shenandoah, Mrs. H. [erbert] I. Lockwood of Lincoln, John of Braddyville. There are also twelve grandchildren living.

At the time of his death, Mr. Maxwell was 88 years of age.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday at 2:00 p. m. at the Baptist church, Rev. Fletcher in charge. Interment in Fairview.

[MAXWELL, THOMAS, 1836-1924]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, May 1, 1924, p. 7

Thomas Maxwell Buried Tuesday

Thomas Maxwell, 88 years of age, passed away at Lincoln, Nebraska, Saturday, April 26th, 1924, and his remains were brought here for burial. The funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the Baptist church, conducted by Rev. Fletcher, and interment was in the Fairview cemetery. Deceased made his home for a number of years in Bedford and vicinity and will be remembered by a host of friends here.

Thomas Maxwell was the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Maxwell. He was born in Denneygaul [Donegal], Ireland, May 12th, 1836, and came with his parents to the United States when about three years of age, settling in New York where he grew to manhood. In 1866 he was married in New York to Mrs. Mary Calvin and to them seven children were born.

He served during the Civil War with the 17th Illinois Cavalry and several years ago became affiliated with the Methodist church in Missouri. His wife and one son preceded him in death. The remaining children, all present at the funeral services Tuesday, are Mrs. I. A. Hindman of Bedford; Thomas Maxwell, of Shenandoah; Leonard I. [saac] of Bedford; Bert of Shenandoah; Mrs. H. [erbert] I. Lockwood of Lincoln, Nebr., and John of Bedford, and 12 grandchildren.

The following poem was read by the minister at the services:

Sunset and evening star

   And one clear call for me

And may there be no moaning of

   The bar

When I put out to sea.

But such a tide as moving seems

   asleep

 Too full for sound or foam,

When that which drew from out the

    boundless deep

  Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,

   And after that the dark,

And may there be no sadness of

   Farewell,

When I embark.

For though from out our bourne of

   Time and Place,

  The flood may bare me far,

I hope to see my Pilot face to face,

   When I have crossed the bar.

[MAXWELL, THOMAS, 1867-1967]

Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, February 16, 1967, [p. 1]

Tom Maxwell was 4 days over 100

Thomas Maxwell reached his goal of 100 years and four days past. But his critical condition, which had threatened to cut his hopes short, had extended for days before his birthday last Friday.

He died at 10:50 p m Tuesday after being in ill health for several months. He was at the home of his nephew, Albert Maxwell, 114 S 12th St, where he had been making his home for several years.

A native of southwest Iowa, he was born on a farm near Bedford, and spent his entire lifetime in this community. He was a brother to the late John Maxwell, who was killed in a mower accident at the Clarinda Cemetery several years ago.

Funeral services were conducted from the Walker Funeral Home this Thursday afternoon, with the Rev M Francis Hubbel, minister of the Baptist Church, in charge. Organ music was by Aletha L Hutchings. Casket bearers wee Fiddle Miller, Steve Maltsberger, Bob Roten, Howard Maxwell, Lem Purcell, and Edwin Maxwell. Burial was in the cemetery at Bedford [Fairview].

[METZLER, CLAUDE LEWIS]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 6, 1955, [p. 1]

Metzler Body Brought Here For Burial

Funeral services for Claude L. Metzler of Canton, Ohio, were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home in Bedford, September 27, conducted by Rev. Fred H. Cowles. Burial was in Fairview cemetery with Masonic burial services at the grave.

Claude L. [ewis] Metzler died September 22 in Aultman hospital, Canton, Ohio after an illness of three months.

A mechanical engineer at Republic Steel Corporation, he had been employed by the corporation in Cleveland and also by the American Steel Company in Cleveland. He was a member of the South Pueblo Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of South Pueblo, Colorado.

He is survived by his wife, the former Miss Elda Woods of Bedford; a son, Robert H. [enry] Metzler of Cleveland; a sister, Mrs. Jennie Morris of Winter Park, Florida; a brother, James Metzler of Cleveland; and three grandchildren.

Those from out of town attending the last rites in Bedford were Mr. and Mrs. James Metzler, Cleveland; Mr. and Mrs. Glen Woods, Mr. and Mrs. Donald Brahm and sons, Cumberland, Iowa; Ed Fox, Mrs. Karl Lemins, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Forsyth, Leo Fox, Oskaloosa, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. John Stephens, Gravity; Mrs. Mattie Reed, Mrs. Ruth Reeder, Lenox.

Mrs. Metzler returned to her home after the funeral services for her husband, accompanied by her sister, Miss Hazel Woods of Bedford and she plans to move to Bedford soon to live with her sister.

[METZLER, ELDA MAY WOODS]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April l7, 1980, p. 7

Hold Final Rites In Bedford for Elda Metzler, 90

Funeral services for Mrs. Claude L. (Elda Woods) Metzler, 90, of Bedford, were held April 14 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, with Rev. Carl Cummings officiating. Mrs. Metzler died April 12, 1980 in Municipal Hospital in Clarinda. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa.

Elda Woods Metzler, daughter of Robert M. Woods and Lola Fox Woods, was born near Cedar in Mahaska County, Iowa, November 22, 1889.

When she was four years old she moved with her parents to the farm two miles west of Bedford, Iowa, where she grew to maturity attending the rural public school, Bedford High School and the Baptist Church.

On June 1, 1910, she was united in marriage to Claude L. [ewis] Metzler at Pueblo, Colorado. Mr. Metzler was a designer of steel mills and they resided in the Easter states where he died in 1955 while living at Cleveland, Ohio.

One son, Robert H. [enry] Metzler was born to bless their home and to share their love. Robert died in 1978.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter-in-law, Clara Metzler, and three grandchildren, Sue Ann, Gerald Claude and Sally Jo; her sister, with whom she had made her home since 1955, Hazel Woods; a brother, Glenn Woods and his wife, Ruth, of Massena, Iowa; a niece Joan Brahms; other relatives and many friends.

She was a 56-year member of Bedford Chapter No. 228, Order of Eastern Star; D. O. C. Neighborhood Club; and a Study Club in Bedford.

She will be remembered as a kind and loving wife, mother, sister and friend and she will be sadly missed by those that know and loved her.

[MOON, GEORGE HOMER]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, December 4, 1919, [p. 1]

Buried at New Market

Died at his home in the northwest part of Bedford Thursday evening, Nov. 27th, G. [eorge] H. [omer] Moon, after a short illness. The funeral services were held at the Christian church Saturday forenoon at 10 o’clock, and the remains were taken to the New Market cemetery, where they were laid away. The family has the sympathy of many friends in the loss of husband and father.
[Note: George Homer Moon is buried in Bedford Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa, not in Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa, as stated in his death notice.]

[MOON, GEORGE HOMER]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, December 4, 1919, p. 5

Miss Elsie Moon, who was called here by the death of her father, Geo. Moon, returned to Omaha yesterday.

[ORR, FRED VAN BUREN]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 7, 1960, p. 4

Fred Orr Died At Clarinda July Fourth

Fred Orr, 79, of rural Bedford, died at Municipal hospital, Clarinda, Monday, July 4. Funeral services will be held at the Shum-Novinger Funeral Service Home on Madison Street at two o’clock, Thursday afternoon, July 7. Rev. Anthony Blankers of the Bedford Methodist church will officiate. Burial in Fairview cemetery.

Mr. Orr is survived by his wife, a son and two daughters, also several grandchildren.

[ORR, NANNIE EDITH LORMOR]

Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, October 28, 1976

Mrs Fred Orr, 95 died in California

Funeral services are being held in Bedford this Thursday afternoon for Mrs Fred Orr, 95, who died Monday at her home in San Gabriel, Cal.

She was the mother of Bill Orr of New Market. Other survivors include two daughters, Mrs Lola Bailey of San Gabriel, Cal, and Juaneta Burwell of Rogers, Ark, and 11 grandchildren.

Rev Carl Cummings officiated at the 2 pm services at Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford.

Casket bearers were Ralph Cox and Mrs. Orr’s grandsons, Terry, Lanny, Ronnie and Kevin Orr of New Market.

Burial was in Bedford cemetery [Fairview].

[ORR, NANNIE EDITH LORMOR]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 4, 1976

Last Rites Held October 28 for Mrs. Fred Orr

Funeral services for Mrs. Fred (Nannie Edith) Orr, 92, formerly of New Market, were held in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford with Carl Cummings officiating. Mrs. Orr died October 25, 1976 in San Gabriel, Calif. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford.

Nannie Edith Lormor Orr, daughter of Frank and Ida Anderson Lormor, was born in Bloomington, Illinois, on February 25, 1884.

At the age of 17 years she moved to Iowa and on September 13, 1905, she was united in marriage to Fred Orr who preceded her death in July 1960.

Mr. and Mrs. Orr lived on farms in Clark and Taylor Counties and following his death in 1960 she moved to her home in New Market, Iowa. Here she continued to reside until moving to San Gabriel, California, where she had made her home with a daughter for the past several years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two children, Rolland Orr and Marjorie Thornhill.

Left to cherish her memory are two daughters; Mrs. Linus (Lola) Bailey of San Gabriel, Calif, and Mrs. Paul (Waunita) Burwell of Rogers, Ark.; one son, Hugh (Bill) Orr of New Market; 11 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, and one brother, Will Lormor of Hillsboro, Oregon.

Early in her life she joined the Methodist Church and attended regularly as long as her health permitted.

She was a kind and loving sister, wife, mother, friend and neighbor and she will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.

[ORR, ROLLAND L.]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 22, 1934, [p. 1]

Ronald Orr Dies at Oakdale Monday

Ronald [Rolland] Orr, 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Orr of the Siam community, died at the sanitarium at Oakdale, Iowa, Monday, March 19.

The funeral services were held this afternoon at the Baptist church in Bedford conducted by Rev. Clark M. Crowell. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery.

Orr was a graduate of the Bedford high school in the class of ’30. He was taken to Oakdale several months ago, where he had been receiving treatment.

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 29, 1934, p. 5

Services Are Held For Rolland Orr

Funeral services for Rolland Orr, 23, who died at the sanitarium in Oakdale, Iowa, Monday, March 19, were held at the First Baptist church in Bedford Thursday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Clark M. Crowell. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery.

Rolland Orr, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Orr of the Siam community, was born near Murray, Iowa, Feb. 18, 1911. He spent his boyhood days in the Murray community, where he was also christened into the Methodist Episcopal church. Later he moved to Taylor County, where he had since made his home. He graduated from the Bedford high school with the class of 1930.

Surviving relatives are the parents, one brother, Hugh Orr, three sisters, Miss Juanita Orr, Miss Marjorie Orr, and Mrs. Linus Bailey and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lormor of Pomona, Calif.

[ORR, ROLLAND L.]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 29, 1934, p. 8

Students Attend Funeral

The student body and faculty wishes to express their sympathy to Mr. and Mrs. Fred Orr and family in the death of their son, Rolland. He was a graduate of Bedford high in the year 1930. His sister, Marjorie, will graduate in ’34. A brother, Hugh, graduated in 1932.

Several members of the school expressed their sympathy and regard by attending his funeral Thursday afternoon. ---L. Wolverton

[ROGERS, HARRIET MASON]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, May 29, 1902, p. 5

---The funeral of Mrs. B. [enjamin] A. [llen] Rogers occurred last Friday morning, conducted by Elder Lee Furgeson and the body laid to rest in Fairview cemetery. Deceased was aged 70 years, 1 month and 12 days. She was an old and highly respected citizen, and her loss will be keenly felt by many.

[ROGERS, BENJAMIN ALLEN “BEN”]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, November 27, 1919, p. 6

Died at Joplin, Mo.

B. [enjamin] F. [Allen] Rogers, (the blind man), known by almost every man, woman and child in Taylor County, died at Joplin, Mo., and his body arrived in Bedford on the noon train Monday. Mr. Rogers was a resident of Bedford for a number of years, but left here about 15 or 20 years ago. The remains were laid to rest in the Bedford cemetery Tuesday afternoon at 3 o’clock. Services were held at the C. E. Fitch residence. Mr. Rogers passed away at the home of his daughter, she having found him dead in bed. The family has many friends in Bedford, who will sympathize with them in their loss of a father.

[SAXTON, FRANK]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 17, 1963, p. 5

Frank Saxton, 88, Rites Oct. 10

Funeral services for Frank Saxton, 88, of Shenandoah, Iowa, former Bedford resident, were held Oct. 10 at Harding Funeral Home in Shenandoah. Mr. Saxton died at a Clarinda rest home October 8. Burial was in Bedford Fairview cemetery.

Mr. Saxton was the last surviving member of his immediate family. His parents, brothers and sisters, his wife, Ora, and a son, Claude, preceded him in death.

He is survived by one son, Bert Saxton and wife of Maryville, Mo., a daughter-in-law, Mrs. Claude Saxton of Shenandoah; ten grandchildren and several great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Mr. Saxton was an uncle of Harold Bowers and Mrs. Roy Helm, Bedford.

[SAXTON, ORISA]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 2, 1960, p. 10

Mrs. Frank Saxton Buried Here Tuesday

Mrs. Frank Saxton, 77, of Shenandoah, died Friday, May 27 at a Clarinda nursing home where she had been the past five weeks. She had been in ill health for more than a year and had lived in Shenandoah about 20 years.

She is survived by her husband, Frank; one son, Bert L. of Maryville, Mo. another son, Claude, died in Shenandoah in October, 1959. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren, two brothers and three sisters.

The funeral was held Tuesday at 2:00 p. m. at the Harding Funeral Home. Burial was in Fairview cemetery at Bedford.

[SHIELDS, HARVEY]

Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 14, 1998

Harvey Shields

Memorial services for Harvey Shields of Clarinda, who died Sunday, January 4, 1998 at the Community Care Center of Clarinda were conducted by the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford on Saturday, January 10, 1998 at 10:30 a.m. Burial of his cremains was in the Fairview Cemetery.

Harvey Shields was born November 16, 1916 in Cramsville, Utah. He was the son of Abraham and Sarah (Nyden) Shields. He was united in marriage to Dorothy Margaret Campbell who died January 20, 1981.

Harvey was an area resident for over 50 years. He grew up in Park City and Vernall, Utah. While on a visit to his sister in Iowa during World War II he met and married Dorothy. The couple made their home in this area. Harvey was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Shenandoah. He loved to sing folk songs and had a dog named Ringo.

Harvey is survived by a half sister, Jennie Boster along with many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Dorothy in 1981; four brothers; two sisters; one half brother and two half sisters.

[THOMPSON, DARRELL EMERY]

Bedford Times-Press, March 18, 1998, p. 5

Darrell Emery Thompson

Darrell Emery Thompson, was born April 12, 1912, the second of three sons born to Charlie and Lizzie (Combs) Thompson, at the family home north of New Market. He attended the New Market Community School where he excelled in athletics, including basketball, football and track. After graduation from the New Market High School in 1929, he briefly attended business college before taking jobs as wrangler and rancher in Montana in the early 1930's.

He married Virginia Lovitt in 1934 and the couple had seven children during their 56 years together. They divorced in 1991. During that time Darrell, and at times the family, lived and worked in Omaha, Nebraska, Montana and Alaska. They worked variously as farmer, fisherman, cowboy, carpenter, plumber, photographer, pilot, hunting guide and filmmaker. Darrell's Alaska adventure films were popular in school auditoriums in the Midwest in the 1960's and for several years he sponsored wild game dinners featuring such exotic treats as moose, caribou, musk oxen and grizzly bear. 

Darrell lived continuously in Alaska since 1970. Mostly in Anchorage and the nearby town of Wasilla. He is survived by his ex-wife, Virginia; son, Dean and wife Ruth Thompson of Anchorage, Alaska; son, Larry and wife Dee Thompson of Homer, Alaska; daughter, Connie and husband Daryl Selders of Gravity; daughter, Jeannie and husband Tom Dougherty of Acampo, California; son, Charles Thompson of Anchorage, Alaska; son, Bob and wife Dawn Thompson of Braddyville; daughter, Linda Thompson of Anchorage, Alaska; special companion Mary Lou Fairbrother and son, James of Anchorage, Alaska; fifteen grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Darrell is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Lizzie; both brothers including the youngest brother, Carroll, of Missoula, Montana in 1991, and just recently his oldest brother, Kenneth of New Market on February 24, 1998.

Funeral services were conducted by the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford, Monday, March 16, 1998 at 10:30 a.m. Burial was in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity.

[TURNER, HELEN LOUISE]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, March 25, 1909, p. 8

On Wednesday of last week a little daughter arrived at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Turner, southeast of Bedford. But the little one was not destined to long tarry here, for on Friday its little spirit took its flight. The funeral was held Saturday, conducted by Rev. D. McMasters. They have the sympathy of all.

[TURNER, HELEN LOUISE]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, March 25, 1909, p. 4

Helen, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Turner, died at their home southeast of Bedford on Friday. The funeral services were held on Saturday, conducted by Rev. D. McMasters, after which interment was made at Fairview.

[TURNER, JAMES ALEXANDER]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 15, 1927, [p. 1]

James A. Turner Passed Away Wed.

Funeral Services Will Be Held at the Home Friday

James A. Turner, a long time resident of this city passed away at his home in the northwest part of town yesterday (Wednesday) after a short illness. He was born May 5, 1859. The funeral services will be held tomorrow (Friday) afternoon at the home at 2:00 o’clock.

The obituary will be given in the Times-Republican next week.

[TURNER, JAMES ALEXANDER]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 22, 1927, p. 4

James A. Turner

James A. [lexander] Turner was born on May 5, 1859 in Taylor County, Ia., and died Sept. 14, 1927, aged 58 years, 4 months and 9 days. On March 1, 1883, he was united in marriage to Flora M. [ay] Hinsaw [Hinshaw], and to this union eight children were born, Charles A. [lbert] Turner, Gertrude E. Wildman, Frank A. Turner, Joe Turner, Donald C., Douglas D., Iva Johnson, Leslie H. Donald and Leslie preceded their father in death. At an early age Mr. Turner united with the Church of Christ and has been a member ever since.

Funeral services were held at the home last Friday, Sept. 16th, conducted by Rev. Fred Coley.

[TURNER, RUBY LOWRY]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 14, 1972, p. 6

Last Rites Held September 5 For Ruby Turner, 83

Funeral services for Mrs. Joe (Ruby) Turner, 83, of Bedford, held September 5 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, were conducted by Carl Cummings. Mrs. Turner died September 2, 1972. Interment was at Fairview Cemetery.

Ruby Lowry Turner, daughter of Hamilton and Laura Lowry, was born near Hopkins, Mo., August 3, 1889.

On March 21, 1914, she was united in marriage to Joseph Turner and they farmed for three years in Saskatchewan, Canada, before returning to Taylor County, Iowa until they moved into Bedford in recent years where she has continued to reside.

Her husband, Joseph Turner, died April 18, 1971 and two children, a son and daughter, died in infancy.

She is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Pearl Kemery of Bedford and Mrs. Phoebe Mitchell of Denver, Colorado; and one brother, George Lowry of Hopkins, Missouri; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

She was a kind and considerate sister and neighbor and she will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.

[TURNER, YVONNE]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, March 27, 1924, [p. 1]

Mistakes Will Happen; We Beg Your Pardon

In Monday’s paper an article state that parties were here attending “the funeral of Joe Turner, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Turner, of twelve miles east of Bedford.” The article should have read, “attending the funeral of the child of Joe Turner, son of Mr. and James Turner, of twelve miles east of Bedford. In preparing the copy at this office we omitted the words “the child of.”

[TURNER, YVONNE]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, March 27, 1924, p. 4

Mr. and Mrs. Harry Cowen of Hopkins attended the funeral of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Turner’s baby.

Ham Lowry returned home to Hopkins Saturday after attending the funeral of Mr. and Mrs. Turner’s baby.

[WALKER, FRANCES MAUDE DUNLAVY]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, April 24, 1902, p. 4

A Useful Life Snuffed Out

Mrs. Maude Walker Passes Away

After Nearly Two Weeks of Suffering the Spirit of That Saintly Woman Returns to the God Who Gave It

Nearly two weeks ago Mrs. Maude Walker was taken sick with catarrhal troubles. No serious consequences were apprehended at first and not until the latter part of last week was any apprehension felt for her. The disease, however, settled in the brain and on Sunday her father, Dr. Dunlavy, had very little hope of her recovery. The patient suffered greatly and was kept under the influence of opiates to alleviate the pain. She sank into unconsciousness Monday night, from which she never recovered, and quietly dropped to sleep, and her liberated, joyous, happy spirit sped with the rapidity of thought to beautiful realms of day, where neither pain nor sorrow, sickness nor death ever enter, and where her radiant spirit will ever sing glad praises to her Redeemer whom she loved so well and served so long. She is not dead but has only passed from the frail tenement of clay into a better, brighter, more glorious life. Weep not, then, bereft ones, but look up and behold in faith your darling one transformed and translated into a new life, where she has joined other dear ones gone on before, all of whom await your coming with anxious hearts and beautiful beckoning hands.

Maude Dunlavy was born in West Grove, Davis County, Iowa, February 17, 1874, and died at the home of her parents in Bedford, Wednesday morning, April 23, 1902, at 3:30 o’clock. She moved with her parents to Bedford, Iowa, in 1876, where she grew to womanhood. In 1893 she with her parents moved to the Gulf coast country of Texas, where in Alvin, Texas, August 6, 1895, she was united in marriage to G. [eorge] D. [exter] Walker. They, with her parents, returned to this place in 1896. Bedford has been her home nearly all her life. Here she attended our public schools. She took special interest in music and elocution, attending a special course at Central music hall, Chicago, in 1887-88, since which time she has given private lessons in these branches when time and health would permit. When 14 years of age she united with the Christian church here under the pastorate of Elder J. P. Lucas, now of Colorado Springs. All her life she has been an active working member in Sunday school, Christian Endeavor and other lines of church work. In the training of children for public exercises, such as concerts and other entertainments, she was an expert.

She was the mother of two children, a little son born April, 1898; died October, 1898; and a daughter, Pauline, two and a half years old, who together with her husband, parents, a brother, T. F. Dunlavy, of Kingfisher, O. -T., and one sister Tressie, of this city, survive her and mourn with broken hearts their great loss.

The funeral services will be conducted at the Christian church Friday morning, April 25 at 10:30, by Elder Lee Ferguson, assisted by Rev. E. N. Ware. Interment will be made in Fairview cemetery.

[WALKER, GEORGE DEXTER]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 21, 1945, p. 5

George Dexter Walker

George Dexter Walker, son of Wm. and Sarah Ferrell Walker, was born July 4, 1872 on a farm near Indianola, Iowa.

He was the third of four children: two brothers, Owen and Marion; and one sister, Clina, who, with the father and mother, preceded him in death.

When Mr. Walker was nine years old the family moved to Bedford. Here he attended the public schools and grew to manhood.

He worked for several years as a printer on the old Times-Republican newspaper.

Later he was connected with the Western Newspaper Union as traveling salesman for southern Iowa. He held this position for 18 years, retiring in 1931.

Since then he has made his home with his daughter and her husband, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Little of Chicago and Elmhurst, Ill.

In 1895 Mr. Walker married F. [rances] Maude Dunlavy in Alvin, Texas.

To them was born two children: a son who died in infancy and the daughter, Pauline Little. His wife passed away in 1902.

Mr. Walker died Thursday, June 14, 1945, in Elmhurst, Ill., after an illness of five months, Mrs. Little and family caring for him throughout this time.

Surviving, besides the daughter and her husband, are two grandchildren, Lou Alice and Maudie Little; and a sister-in-law, Miss Tressie Dunlavy.

His old friends in this community and his many business associates in southern Iowa will mourn his passing.

He was of an unselfish disposition, loving the simple things in life and always ready to do for others.

The funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. W. A. Purdy. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery.

[WEBSTER, JENNIE VIRGINIA EMBRY]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 23, 1958, p. 6

Mrs. M. A. Webster Dies In Indiana

Mrs. M. [elvin] A. [loice] Webster, 95, a resident of Bedford for many years, died in Michigan City, Indiana, Tuesday night, October 21. The body is being brought to Bedford and funeral services will be held at the Wetmore Funeral Home at 3 o’clock Friday afternoon, Oct. 24. Rev. Gordon F. MacLean of Red Wing, Minn., will officiate. Burial in Fairview cemetery.

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, June 9, 1910, p. 4

Mrs. M. [elvin] A. Webster who was suddenly called to Chatfield, Minnesota, a week ago on account of the death of her mother, returned on the afternoon train Tuesday.

[WEBSTER, MELVIN ALOICE]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 9, 1936, [p. 1]

M. A. Webster, 77, Dies In Iowa City

M. A. Webster, 77, a resident of Bedford for the past forty-four years, died at the University hospital in Iowa City Tuesday, July 7.

The funeral services were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home this afternoon, conducted by Rev. Robert Boshen. Burial was in the Fairview cemetery.

Melvin A. [loice] Webster, son of Asel and Emily [Maria Coats] Webster, was born March 20, 1859 at La Crosse, Wisc., where he spent most of his early life.

Sept. 20, 1882 he was married to Jennie Embry. To them was born one daughter, Grace, who is now Mrs. G. B. Brice of Michigan City, Ind. The family moved to Bedford in 1892, which place had since been their home.

Surviving with the wife, daughter and her husband, are two brothers and a sister. They are Frank Webster of Sebring, Fla., Delbert Webster of Minneapolis, Minn., and Mrs. Alice Murchison of Wichita, Kans.

During Mr. Webster’s long residence in Bedford he gained a wide acquaintance, among whom are many sincere friends.

[WRIGHT, CLARA ANN “CLARISSA” HASTY]

Bedford Times-Republican, April 16, 1925, p. 5

Mrs. W. C. Wright

Clarissa Ann Hasty was born June 28, 1854, at Decatur, Iowa, and died at her home in southwest Bedford, Ia., April 5, 1925, at the age of 70 years, 9 months and 7 days.

She was united in marriage to Wm. C. [arter] Wright, Aug. 9, 1873, when she was 18 years of age. There were ten children born to this union.

In the year 1923 they celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary. Since 1905 they have made their home in Bedford.

During the pastorate of Rev. John Arnold she united with the Methodist Episcopal church of Bedford. She had been converted in early life and at one time had united with the Baptist church. Her Christian faith evidenced itself in many ways during her lifetime and in the last months of her life it was a source of great comfort and hope to her. When after a long life of toil and many hardships she approached the end of the journey she confidently looked forward to her day of rest and crowning.

Besides her husband she is survived by three sons: M. [orris] E. [lwood] Wright, Gibbs, Idaho; V.[erlon] C. [lare] Wright, Bedford, Ia.; J. [ulius] D. [on] Wright, Bedford, Ia.; and four daughters: Mrs. L. [orenzo] C. McKee, of Macksburg, Ia.; Mrs. C. S. Fleming, Fergus Falls, Minn; Mrs. W. G. Cornman, St. Joseph, Mo.; Mrs. C. S. Stocker, Kansas City, Mo.; 25 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren, together with many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted at 2 o’clock Wednesday afternoon, April 8, 1925, by the pastor of the Methodist church, Rev. G. T. Roberts and the body was laid to rest in Fairview cemetery.
[Note: The same obituary was printed in the Bedford Free Press, April 16, 1925, page 1.]