• Home
• Contact Us
• Mailing List
• Look Ups
• What's New
• Site Map

• Places & Geography
  • DeWitt County Today
  • Maps of DeWitt County
  • Communities of DeWitt County
  • County Postal Addresses
  • DeWitt County Churches
  • Cemeteries
  • Neighboring Counties
• Online Records
  • 1840 DeWitt Co. Transcribed Census
  • 1850 DeWitt Co. Census Index
  • 1850 DeWitt Co. Census Images
  • 1860 DeWitt Co. Census Image Index
  • 1860 DeWitt Co. Census Images
  • 1860 DeWitt Co. Transcribed Census
  • 1860 Transcribed Census Index
  • 1870 DeWitt Co. Census Index
  • 1880 DeWitt Co. Census Index (Surname)
  • 1880 DeWitt Co. Census Index (Township)
  • 1900 DeWitt Co. Census Index & Images
  • 1900 DeWitt Co. Transcribed Census
  • 1910 DeWitt Co. Census Index & Images
  • 1920 DeWitt Co. Census Index & Images
  • Land Records
  • Wills, Deeds, Probate
  • Index to Death Records (1878-1917)
• Obituary Index
  • Obituaries Index
  • Surnames A - C
  • Surnames D - F
  • Surnames G - I
  • Surnames J - L
  • Surnames M - N
  • Surnames O - R
  • Surnames S - T
  • Surnames U - Z
• Biography & History
  • 1882 History of DeWitt County, Illinois
  • 1891 Portrait and Biographical Album
  • 1901 Biographical Record of DeWitt County Index
  • 1910 History of DeWitt County, Illinois
  • Miscellaneous Biographies
  • History of Weldon Springs
• Newspaper Abstracts
  • Newspaper Extract Index
  • Headlines and Scandals
  • Engagement, Wedding, & Anniversary Announcements
  • DeWitt County Divorces
• Military
  • Military Links
  • 1883 Federal Pensioner’s Roll
• Miscellaneous
  • DeWitt Co. Cemetery Location Information & Photos
  • Photographs - Individuals
  • Photographs - Families
  • Photographs - Groups
  • Photographs - Places
  • The Clintonia Yearbook – 1921
  • Scrapbook Pages
  • Interment Index
  • Queries

Obituaries - S

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U-V | W | X-Z

Obituaries were submitted by Judy Simpson unless otherwise noted.

C. J. SABIN 

December 3, 1909
Clinton Register

C. J. SABIN, father of I. C. SABIN, formerly of Clinton, died at his home in Champaign Monday of heart trouble. He was born in New York in 1831 and came to Illinois in 1854, taking a position with the Illinois Central. He went into Galena on the first railroad train entering that city. On retiring from the road he engaged in the implement business in Champaign from 1858 to 1898, when he sold out and invested in the telephone business. He was alderman several terms and mayor of the city one term. He is survived by three sons and one daughter.

Reuben SACKETT 

February 19, 1904
Clinton Register

GONE TO HIS REWARD.
Another of Clinton’s Oldest Citizens is at Rest on the Other Shore—
Sick Several Weeks.

Another of the aged pilgrims on the highway that leads from life to death has fallen by the wayside. After a journey of nearly four score years, Reuben SACKETT heard the silent voice and his soul was at rest. He was sick last fall and had been confined to his home most of the time since, and for some time it was realized there was little hope for his recovery. The end came about 10 o'clock Saturday, his family being at his bedside.

Reuben Sackett was born in Butler county, O., Nov. 29, 1825. In 1828 his parents came to Illinois and lived near Springfield for five years when they moved to Dixon, where they lived until 1847. In 1849, Mr. Sackett, then 24 years old, went to California to hunt gold. In 1853 he returned to Illinois and lived at Galena a few years. While there he was married to Miss Elizabeth RENNICK, Nov. 19, 1857, who survives him. They lived on a farm near Galena about three years before coming to Clinton in 1851, which had since been their home. Of the nine children born to them, three are living. They are Mrs. FREDRICKSON, of Champaign; Mrs. E. I. DAY; and Mrs. W. A. GOLZE, of Clinton.

His life in Clinton until a few years ago, when he sold his interest in the furniture business, was one of activity. First in the blacksmith business, which he sold to George AUGINBAUGH, then a partner with Henry RENNICK in a grocery. He next engaged in the furniture business with F. H. BOGAR. John CARROLL succeeded Mr. Bogar and A. L. LEMEN succeeded Mr. Carroll, who died a few years ago.

Funeral services were held at the M. E. church on Monday, conducted by Rev. CANADY, assisted by Rev. Jas. SHAW, of Bloomington. Many beautiful floral tributes were sent by friends and relatives. Burial in Woodlawn.

Mrs. Reuben SACKETT 

September 17, 1918
Clinton Daily Public

MRS. ELIZA SACKETT IS CALLED TO REST.
Prominent Pioneer and One of Community's Most Respected Citizens Dies at 9:30 Last Night.

The Old Grim Reaper laid its hand upon the brow of one of Clinton’s best known and most respected citizens, Mrs. Eliza SACKETT, who was called to her reward last night at 9:40 o'clock. A short but fatal attack of bronchial pneumonia preceded her demise. She was 83 years old at the time of her death. Mrs. Sackett was a pioneer resident of this community and had a host of friends who sincerely mourn her loss.

Mrs. Eliza Sackett, nee RENNICK, was born on April 7, 1835, in county Fermanaugh in Ireland and came to America on a sailboat when she was only six years old. The trip across the waters consumed about six months, for in those days water transportation was extremely slow. Mrs. Sackett was one of a family of thirteen children.

On Nov. 19, 1857, the then Miss Rennick was united in marriage to Reuben SACKETT at Galena, Ill., and with her husband in the year 1862 moved to Clinton to make this town their home. For the following fifty-six years Mrs. Sackett had made the family residence at 212 East Washington street her only home.

Mrs. Sackett was the mother of nine children, all of whom with the exception of Mayme, Sadie and Rosie, are deceased. These have married and Mayme is the wife of W. A. GOLZE, Rosie is the wife of Ellis DAY and Sadie is the widow of the late E. A. FREDERICKSON. For many years Mrs. Sackett made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Golze. The children who have died were Nettie, Anna, Ida, Flora, Francis R. and William H. Mrs. Jennie TAYLOR, 1004 East Main street, a sister, is the only surviving member of Mrs. Sackett’s family.

During her entire lifetime Mrs. Sackett had been a staunch supporter of the Methodist Episcopal church and was exceedingly active in the church circles. Both she and her late husband were active in the building of the present structure. Several days previous to her illness she was hostess to the Woman’s Home Missionary society, of which she was a member. She was always considerate of other persons’ feelings and was unusually kind and of a consoling disposition. She had acquired a host of friends in this community who will keenly feel her loss. By deed and action she was a friend of all and it was her pleasure to speak naught but good of all.

The funeral services will be held at 10:30 o'clock Thursday morning from the Methodist church with the pastor, Rev. A. M. WELLS, officiating. Burial will be made in Woodlawn cemetery. Two grandchildren, Miss Marie GOLZE and Mrs. R. H. FOARD, also survive.

Samuel SACKETT 

February 13, 1880
Clinton Public

DEATH GATHERS THEM IN.

Samuel SACKETT, an old resident of this city, and the father of Messrs. A. M. and Reuben SACKETT, died at the home of his son-in-law, Mr. Baz. CAMPBELL, at Twin Springs, Kansas, on last Tuesday, at the advanced age of nearly eighty-three years. Father Sackett was born near Cincinnati on the first of September, 1797, and about fifty years ago came to Illinois to seek a home in the new West. Thirty years ago he came to Clinton and engaged in the drug business. In his younger days he had given some attention to the study of medicine, and this reading had given him a taste for the drug trade. For a time he was in partnership with Drs. GOODBRAKE and T. K. EDMISTON. Dr. Goodbrake sold to the other partners his interest, and then came the fire on the north side of the square, where now stands the Magill block, and swept away in a short time the savings of years. The drug store was insured, but Edmiston and Sackett never got a dollar as the company was worthless. Father Sackett was in debt and without a dollar, as the fire had consumed everything, when his son Alfred, who was in business at Galena, came to the rescue and paid off his father’s debts and helped him to a new start in life. Father Sackett then began business on his own account, and a few years after sold out and retired. Old age began to tell on Father Sackett and his wife, and four years ago or more they went to Kansas to live with their daughter, Mrs. Baz. Campbell, hoping that a change of climate would smooth their declining years. Three years ago, the 14th of last month, Mother Sackett died. Her aged partner tarried but a few years longer when he, too, passed from time into eternity. Father and Mother Sackett were members of the M. E. Church in this city, and in their early days were active workers for their Master. Mr. and Mrs. Reuben SACKETT left for Kansas on Tuesday evening to attend the funeral.

Mrs. Harriet SADDLER 

February 7, 1908
Clinton Register

DIED AT JACKSONVILLE.

Mrs. Harriet SADDLER died at the Central Illinois hospital for the insane at Jacksonville Wednesday morning. Mrs. Saddler had been deranged for many years and eighteen months ago it was thought best to take her to an asylum and she was taken to the hospital at Jacksonville.

An inmate of the institution pushed her down last summer, dislocating her hip, from which she never recovered but gradually grew weaker.

Mrs. Saddler was born in Ohio in 1829, and married Nelson LEWIS, who died in Andersonville prison. In 1889 she became the wife of Thomas SADDLER, the family removing to this state. In 1897 her husband died and she had often expressed a wish that she might be buried by his side, and that her funeral be held from the Methodist church. These wishes were complied with, the funeral being held from that church this morning, and the weary pilgrim laid to rest beside her husband at the Walter's cemetery in Wilson township.

Mrs. Jane SAFFORD 

November 22, 1895
Clinton Public

Mrs. Jane SAFFORD, of Harp township, was buried in the DeWitt cemetery on last Sunday. Mrs. Safford was an old and esteemed citizen. She will be greatly missed at the church and Sunday school, for in both she was a zealous worker. Although her life was spent in poverty and want, she never grumbled, but looked forward to the happy reunion when she should meet her husband and children who preceded her years ago. Rev. THRASHER delivered the funeral discourse to a large audience.

Sarah (LISENBY) SALISBURY 

March 3, 1882
Clinton Register

Died, on Friday night, Feb. 24, 1882, at Lane, Ill., Mrs. Sarah SALISBURY, aged forty-one years, wife of Henry SALISBURY, and sister of Mr. C. S. LISENBY, whose death was announced in The Register a few weeks ago. The funeral services were conducted at Lane on Sunday, attended by a large number of relatives and friends. Deceased was greatly esteemed for her many Christian virtues, and leaves a husband, an aged mother, and many other relatives and friends to mourn this sad dispensation.

Spencer SAMUEL 

May 14, 1886
Clinton Public

Spencer SAMUEL, a young farmer who lived near Hallsville, died last Tuesday of consumption.

Carter SAMUELS 

December 5, 1890
Clinton Public

Carter SAMUELS, only child of Isaiah and Hattie SAMUELS, died Sunday, Nov. 30th, of diphtheria, aged six years, two months and some days. Mr. and Mrs. Samuels have the sympathy of the entire community in their bereavement. May God comfort them.

Robert G. SAMUELS 

April 21, 1899
Clinton Public

Robert G. SAMUELS was born in Franklin county, Ky., April 22, 1816. At the age of 12 years he with his parents moved to near Indianapolis, Ind., and on July 11, 1847, he was married to Miss Rachel GRINER, in Indianapolis, Ind., and they began housekeeping on a 160 acres of timber land. In October, 1851, he sold his land for $1,000, and started for DeWitt county. On Oct. 15, 1851, he drove through with his team and some cattle, his father having been out to this county and gone back to Indiana. He purchased 200 acres of land near where the Elm Grove church now stands, paying $6 per acre and kept adding to his landed possession until Nov. 6, 1882, then moved on to a small tract of land, inside of the village, where he resided at the time of his death, being 82 years, 11 months, 23 days old. In the fall of 1897, he and his wife united with the Christian church of this place under the preaching by Elder Thomas DUNCLESON of Brown county, Ill. He had lived a consistent Christian life. Two of his children preceded him to the better land beyond. He leaves to mourn his demise, his wife, one daughter, Mrs. E. L. HOFFMAN, of Waynesville, three [4 listed] sons, George W., of Springfield, Charlie W., Francis, and Oscar B., residing near the town; three brothers living, one at Hallsville, one at Bement, one at Boswell, Ind., besides a large list of relatives residing in the county. He had given all of his sons and daughter good farms and about two years ago he divided up all of his land with his children giving them deeds to it (so reported). It can be said of Uncle Giles, as he was called by all , that he was a kind and hospitable father to all of his children and ever ready to share with his children whenever in trouble or needed aid in any way.

It is said by those who called on him for aid or the necessaries of life, he had charity for all. On the farm he never wanted his hired men to work themselves or his horses out in rainy or stormy weather if it could possibly be avoided, as there were plenty of good days to work in, without exposure to man or beast. He never made but one bill in his life that was not settled and that was for a check he bought of a peddler on six months time after his marriage. That was never paid for the reason that the man never called for his money. He kept the money for the man, he wrote but could not find him, so he could not liquidate the debt. He was never sued for a debt or contract of any kind, and never sued but one person in all his dealings with his fellow men. He believed in the Golden Rule, to “do unto others as he wished others to do unto him.” In politics he was a Democrat of the Jackson kind, but believed in supporting men who were capable of filling the offices, and did not at all times stick to party lines in town and county offices—it was the men and not the party he voted for. He was a good financier and a wise counselor, and his timely counsel will be missed by many.

The funeral of the late R. G. Samuels, who died at his home in Wapella Friday, was held at that place Sunday afternoon. A large concourse of friends and relatives followed the remains to Clinton, where a large number of Clinton friends awaited the cortege to pay their last respects to one whom they had always known as a true friend. His honesty and fair dealing with his fellowmen had gained for deceased scores of friends throughout the county.

Wilkin W. SAMUELS 

August 31, 1906
Clinton Register

PARALYSIS PROVES FATAL.
Clinton Man's Death the Result of an Accident About a Month Ago— Funeral Held Tuesday.

Wilkin W. SAMUELS died Sunday morning about 5 o'clock at his home on South Center street. Nearly four weeks ago he was driving on the track at the fairground and his horse ran, throwing him from the buggy. He fell on his head and shoulders, but his injury was not regarded serious. For several days he was very sore about his neck and shoulders, and about ten days before his death he was stricken with paralysis. His mind was not affected but he could not move his hands and feet but little, and there was only slight evidence of improvement. The fall had injured his spine and there was no relief.

Deceased was born near Hallsville, Sept. 19, 1854, and lived 52 years, 11 months and 7 days. Barnett township was his home until a few years ago, when he became a citizen of Clinton, and it had since been his home. February 23, 1898, he was married to Mrs. Tryphena WALKER, of Maroa, who survives him. He is also survived by his mother, Mrs. Elizabeth SAMUELS, of Clinton; Henry, of Pierre, S. D.; C. E. and Robert, of Clinton.

Funeral services were held at the home Tuesday at 3 o'clock, conducted by Rev. N. M. RIGG. Burial in Woodlawn cemetery.

Leontine (WALLER) SANDERSON 

December 17, 1909
Clinton Register

Mrs. Leontine SANDERSON died Tuesday morning at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. GRAHAM of West Johnson street, being sick over two years. Leontine WALLER was born at Waynesville, Dec. 2, 1878, when two years of age her parents moved to Ottawa, Kansas, where she grew to womanhood. She was married to Carl SANDERSON, Dec. 18, 1899, and she and her husband, both being musicians, traveled about for several yeas with theatrical companies, making their home in Chicago. The husband died three years ago last March, but Mrs. Sanderson continued to reside in Chicago until her health began to fail. Two years ago she came to make her home with her mother, Mrs. W. A. Graham, who then resided at Waynesville. The family moved to Clinton two months ago. She is survived by her mother, 2 brothers, Clyde and Jule WALLER, of Chicago, and a sister, at home. The funeral was held at two o'clock Wednesday afternoon, the services conducted at the house by Rev. G. W. Flagge. Burial in the Woodlawn cemetery.

A. J. SANGER 

June 12, 1891
Clinton Public

Mr. A. J. SANGER, of Joliet, died on Sunday and was buried from his home on Monday. Mr. Sanger was the secretary of the Twentieth Regiment whose reunion occurred at Pontiac this week. It is a sad coincidence in the history of the regiment that since their last reunion the president, Dr. GOODBRAKE, of Clinton, and the secretary have both died.

Dr. SAPPINGTON 

March 1892
Clinton Public

Dr. SAPPINGTON died at noon to-day.

Submitted by Debbie Champion

Mrs. Martha SAPPINGTON 

September 9, 1887
Clinton Public

Mrs. Martha SAPPINGTON, aged eighty-seven years and four days, died at her home in this city on last Monday. The old lady was born in Virginia on the 1st of September, 1800, and in an early day she came to Illinois and settled in Morgan county. Her husband was a soldier in the Mexican War, and the old lady drew a pension on account of his services. She lived in Clinton a number of years, but when she came here we were unable to learn. Mrs. Sappington was a remarkable old lady, and her early life was one of adventure. For sixty-six years she was a member of the Methodist Church, and it can be said that she was a devout Christian woman and lived the religion she professed. Her body was taken to Franklin, Morgan county, to be buried by the side of her husband.

Carrie SARGENT 

October 7, 1881
Clinton Register

Death of a Most Estimable Young Lady.

We are pained to have to chronicle the death of the young, especially such as have toiled and labored incessantly to qualify themselves for lives of honor and usefulness; when they are just ripening into manhood and womanhood, with all the bright future opening out before them with strong desires to live for humanity's sake, it seems a mystery, which frail mortals cannot fathom when the loved ones are taken away. Miss Carrie SARGENT, an exemplary and much beloved young lady of Clinton, a graduate of the class of 1880 of the Clinton High School, died on Wednesday morning at 3:30 o'clock, after a lingering illness of several weeks with consumption, at the age of 19 years. Her funeral yesterday afternoon was attended by many loving relatives and friends, Rev. G. W. HENNING officiating, after which the remains were consigned to the silent tomb. "Peace, be still."

Samuel SARGENT 

February 10, 1899
Clinton Public

Dr. Samuel SARGENT, from 1874 to 1892 an active physician and surgeon of Logan county, died at his home, Wichita, Kas., Thursday, February 2d, at 5 p.m., of paralysis, aged 71 years, 8 months and 2 days.

Thomas Fletcher SARGENT 

March 24, 1882
Clinton Public

Died, March 22, 1882, at his home in Clinton, Thomas Fletcher SARGENT, aged forty-seven years. Mr. Sargent was born in Clermont county, Ohio; married in 1851 and move to Illinois in 1871. For two years past consumption has been preying upon him, and at last he fell its victim. He was a very modest, unobtrusive Christian gentleman—a member of the M. E. Church and of the I.O.O.F., by which order his funeral was conducted. He leaves a wife and one daughter. Mr. Sargent had insurance on his life in the Oddfellow’s association.

Florence SAUNDERS 

June 15, 1888
Clinton Public

Florence SAUNDERS, better known as Florence ROBINSON, died at the home of her uncle, Mr. R. W. ROBINSON, in this city last Thursday, aged 12 years, 8 months, 5 days, of consumption. The funeral services were held at the residence of Mr. Robinson, corner of Johnson and Monroe streets, Wednesday afternoon, and the remains were taken to Belleflower on Thursday morning for interment.

W. G. SAVAGE 

February 22, 1878
Clinton Public

Within sight of the Hanger homestead [Frederick Hanger died Friday evening, and his obituary precedes this one.], W. G. SAVAGE also lay in the embrace of death. He died Saturday morning. Some weeks ago he was seized with an apoplectic shock, and although he rallied and was about for a few days afterward, yet it finally resulted in his death. Mr. Savage came to Clinton from Champaign county, Ohio, about thirty years ago. He brought with him some money, which he carefully invested. The increase in the value of property made him reasonably rich, and probably at the time of his death he was worth between thirty and forty thousand dollars. His habits were frugal and simple, hence it took but little to supply his wants. He was the owner of a number of tenement houses in this city, but it is doubtful if he ever received more than rent enough out of them to pay for the repairs and taxes. His tenants knew that he was kind-hearted, hence they imposed upon him. When asked why he allowed so-and-so to occupy one of his houses without paying rent, his reply would be, “Well, the poor fellow must have somewhere to stay, and I can’t turn him out.” He leaves a wife and an adopted daughter. The great pride of his life was that he paid his way and owed no man any thing.

Anna (COCHRAN) SAVELY 

November 22, 1907
Clinton Register

SUICIDE OF FORMER CLINTON LADY.

Mrs. Anna SAVELY, wife of Harry SAVELY, committed suicide Monday by shooting herself in the head and in the abdomen. The family lived at Clearing, Ill., near Englewood. Mr. Savely usually left home in the morning to attend to his work, remaining away all day. Monday he returned after dark. Not seeing his wife, he supposed she was at a neighbor’s, but when she did not return he began a search and found the door to one room fastened by a chair being placed against it. When he entered the room he found his wife lying on the bed. Seeing her condition he called a doctor, who seeing she could not recover, requested her taken to a hospital, and she died on the way there. It is thought she had become despondent on account of poor health, as she had been sick most of the time for several weeks.

Anna Cochran was born in Springfield and was about 40 years old. She was married to Harry Savely in that city about sixteen years ago. They lived in Clinton several years where Mr. Savely was engaged in painting and paper hanging. They moved to Chicago about ten years ago and had since lived in or near that city.

Mr. Savely arrived in Clinton Wednesday afternoon with the remains, which were taken to the home of Chas. Phillips. Funeral services conducted by Rev. _. C. ___ were held in the Presbyterian church yesterday at 2:30. Burial in Woodlawn.

Mrs. J. SAVELY 

October 25, 1907
Clinton Register

The wife of Dr. J. SAVELY died at Springfield Wednesday, and the remains were brought here for interment in Woodlawn cemetery. The funeral took place from the residence of J. H. SAVELY this morning at 10 o'clock, conducted by Rev. W. A. Hunter. She was 49 yeas and 5 months old.

Martha (SPRAGUE) SAWYERS 

November 6, 1891
Clinton Public

At the advanced age of nearly ninety-one years, Mrs. Martha Shaw SAWYERS died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Samuel WADE, on the 29th of October. She was born in Augusta, Maine, February 17, 1801, and lived there till she was twelve years old. Her parents moved to Massachusetts and later to Ohio, when she was married in the year 1832 to Reece SAWYERS. In 1834 they came to Clinton and settled on what is now known as the WEAVER farm, and a year later they went from here to Tazewell County, where Mr. Sawyer[s] died in 1869, when the old lady moved back to Clinton and made her home with her daughter. Mrs. Sawyers was the mother of seven children, five daughters and two sons, only four of whom are living. They are Mrs. Martha A. WADE, Mrs. Sarah A. STEPHENSON, Mrs. Ruth S. SACKETT, and Andrew A. SAWYERS. Mrs. Sawyers united with the M. E. Church in 1842 and remained a member of that denomination till 1863, when becoming dissatisfied with her Christian experience she united with the Christian Church and remained a faithful member till the end. She was a consistent Christian and died with the blessed hope of a blissful eternity.

Note: Her maiden name was SPRAGUE.

Susan (KELLY) SAYLOR 

October 15, 1909
Clinton Register

DEATH AT WELDON.

Mrs. Susan SAYLOR, wife of W. H. SAYLOR, died at her home in Weldon Wednesday, aged 48, of cancer. Deceased was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thos. KELLY and was born near Havana, Ill., Aug. 29, 1861. She was married to W. H. Saylor in Clinton July 15, 1896, and had since lived at Weldon. She is survived by her husband and four children, all at home; also by two sisters, Mrs. Green CHANEY, of Lenox, Iowa, and Miss Anna KELLY, of Clinton, and 3 brothers, James, John and Joseph. Burial in Weldon cemetery at two o'clock today.

Mrs. Clara SCHENCK 

May 10, 1895
Clinton Public

Mrs. Clara SCHENCK, of Texas township, died of cerebral apoplexy Saturday. Her husband had gone to Maroa about 7 P.M., and left his wife and children in good health. He returned home about 11 P.M., his hired man preceding him to the house. Knocking at the door, the hired man failed to receive a response from within. The husband opened the window and thus gained access to his wife's bedroom, where he found her sitting on the bed with her feet on the floor, her head reclining sidewise. He alarmed his brother-in-law on the same farm and they summoned Dr. MORGAN of Maroa, who declared death was caused instantly as recorded above. Coroner Cyrus JONES was summoned Sunday. The jury rendered a verdict in accordance with the above facts. Deceased was buried Tuesday. She leaves a husband and two young children.

Lucy (MILLER) HAINES SCHENCK 

October 18, 1901
Clinton Register

DIED IN NEW MEXICO.
Wife of a Maroa Man Dies While They Were Alone in the Mountains—
His Lonely Vigil.

Last August Mr. and Mrs. Alma SCHENCK, of Maroa, went to Colorado for the latter's health. After remaining in that state a while, they were advised to travel in a wagon, camping out of nights. Two young men from Chicago, who were in poor health, traveling with them, having their own team. October 8, the young men got so far in advance of Mr. and Mrs. Schenck that they had not overtaken them when night came on. Arriving at a spring they camped for the night, thirty miles from Las Vegas, N. M., and at an altitude of about 7,000 feet. Mrs. Schenck had gained five pounds and the husband was much encouraged; but the altitude was too high for her in her weakened condition, and a short time after they had camped, she died suddenly of heart failure. It was dark and the young husband was there alone with the remains of his wife. The rough roads and the long distance between houses made it impossible for him to notify anybody, so he was compelled to remain in camp till morning. His sad vigil was made more lonely during the night by the appearance of wild cats and prairie wolves which came near the wagon and would probably have attacked him had it not been for his bull dog that growled fiercely when the wild animals approached near the wagon. The experience of Mr. Schenck that night was what perhaps none have experienced, alone with the lifeless body of his companion in a strange country, and no protection from threatened attacks of wild animals except his faithful dog.

Early next morning he started on the return trip to Las Vegas, which on account of the very rough roads was not reached until near evening, when a telegram was sent to her father at Maroa. The body was prepared for shipment, and Mr. Schenck started on his long journey home, arriving at Maroa at 2 o'clock Tuesday, a week after the death of his wife. Funeral services were held that afternoon.

Lucy Matilda MILLER was born Feb. 5, 1870, one mile south of Maroa, being the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. W. MILLER. In 1875 the family moved to Decatur, where she was married Sept. 6, 1889, to Wm. A. HAINES, son of O. P. HAINES, of Texas township. To them one son was born who is living. Her husband was killed April 17, 1892, while in the employ of the Wabash road, and Oct. 9, 1900, she was married to Alma Schenck. She was a member of the Presbyterian church several years.

John SCHLAFKE 

January 22, 1892
Clinton Public

Within eight days three of the old soldiers who served during the war in the One Hundred and Seventh Illinois have been finally mustered out. Captain GIDDINGS was buried one week ago last Sunday; on last Saturday Thomas GARDINER was buried, and on last Sunday John SCHLAFKE made the third.

After a brief illness, John Schlafke died at his home in this city on last Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon he was followed to the grave by Frank Lowry Post, G. A. R., of which he was a member, and by the Sons of Veterans. The funeral services were held at his home in the First Ward, and were conducted by the Rev. D. MacARTHUR. John Schlafke was a brave soldier and he was buried with the honors of war. A firing party was detailed as an escort to Woodlawn Cemetery, and after the beautiful and touching ritual service was read by Commander LEMON and Chaplain ARMSTRONG, the gun squad formed on each side of the grave and fired the farewell salute. Then Orrie HARRISON stepped to the head of the grave and sounded “Taps” on the bugle. A soldier’s funeral is simple and solemn.

John Schlafke was a native of Prussia, Germany, and was born on the 24th of December, 1830. He emigrated to this country in the year 1854, and four years later he came to this county. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Co. D, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Infantry, and served till the 21st of June, 1865, when he was discharged at Salisbury, North Carolina. At the battle of Franklin a shell exploded over John Schlafke’s head, and as he advanced in years he felt the effects of the concussion more and more. After the war he married in Clinton and settled down to the peaceful pursuits of life. One daughter and wife are left to mourn for their loved one. For years John followed the avocation of farming, but he was finally compelled to quit it on account of the trouble in his head. He then bought a home in Clinton.

Mrs. John SCHLAFKE 

October 21, 1910
Clinton Register

AGED FOUR SCORE.

Mrs. Rebecca SCHLAFKE died Monday afternoon at her home in the east part of the city, aged 80 years. She had lived in Clinton several years. Deceased was born in Ohio, May 12, 1830, and her parents came to Illinois while she was young. She married Jno. SCHLAFKE, who died nearly 20 years ago. Of the two children born to them one is dead and the other, Miss Dora, lived with her mother. Funeral services were held at the home Wednesday, conducted by Rev. J. E. HART. Burial was in Woodlawn.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
SCHLAFKE, JOHN    BENTZ, REBECCA J. (MRS.)    04/10/1869     DE WITT

Kenneth SCHOBY 

November 22, 1901
Clinton Register

CALLED TO FINAL REST.
One of Texas Township's Best Citizens Dies from Cancer After Several months Affliction.

Kenneth SCHOBY died at his home in Texas township Thursday evening, Nov. 14, aged 68 years, 2 months and 27 days. In March 1900, a cancer developed on his lip which was successfully removed by Mrs. CAIN. Last spring another cancer developed on the lower part of the left side of his face. It was so near the jugular vein it was thought best to not try to remove it. Since then he gradually became worse, and it was known for several weeks that death would soon result.

Kenneth Schoby was born in Clark county, O., Aug. 17, 1833. Feb. 5, 1852, he was married to Maria M. BOWYER who survives him. To them eight children were born, two of whom died in infancy. Those living are Mrs. M. G. CADWALLADER, of Kenney; Edward, Frank and Mrs. Uriah JAMES, Rowell; Jackson, of Eagle Grove, Ia.; and John, of Kenney.

In 1856 the family came to Illinois, settling in Mason county, where they lived until 1870, when they moved to Texas township, this county, which had since been the home. He was the youngest of a family of ten children and the last to die. He had been married nearly fifty years; the fifth of next February would have been the golden anniversary of his marriage. In 1861 he united with the Christian church in Mason City.

Funeral services were held in the Texas church Saturday at 11 o'clock, conducted by Rev. E. A. GILLILAND. Interment in Texas cemetery.

Submitted by Bob Halsey

Henry SCHWARK 

October 19, 1877
Clinton Public

AT REST.

Henry SCHWARK died at the residence of Mr. Jacob ZIEGLER, in Texas township, last Sunday morning, after a brief illness. The deceased came to this county about one year ago, having been discharged from the United States army on account of physical debility. He was somewhat acquainted with the Ziegler family, having at one time worked for the elder Mr. ZIEGLER in McLean county. During the ten or fifteen years he was in the army, Henry Schwark had saved about $1500, and with this money he had bought a farming outfit and rented a farm from Dr. John WARNER. He was a hard worker and very industrious, and had he lived he would have been a valuable addition to our county.

The deceased was born in Doberan, Mechlenburgh-Schwerin, Germany, March 25, 1838, and at the time of his death was in his fortieth year. He came to this country when he was yet in his teens, and in September, 1861, enlisted as a volunteer in a Michigan regiment. At the end of his three years he re-enlisted in the Michigan Sharp-shooters, in which regiment he served till the close of the war. Then he came to McLean and worked for the elder Mr. Ziegler till 1870, when he again was seized with military ardor and enlisted in the Twenty-third Regular Infantry. Serving out his full time he re-enlisted for another five years, two only of which he served, for by an injury received he was incapacitated for further service. October 1, 1876, he was finally discharged, when he came to DeWitt county and settled down to the more peaceful life of a farmer. During all those years of military life Henry Schwark had passed through all the perils and dangers of a soldier’s calling; in the battle-fields of the South and in the frontiers fighting Indians he was ever in the face of danger. He was in the celebrated Modoc war which resulted in the capture of Captain Jack, and under the brave Custer had many an encounter with the Indians. The best years of his life were given to the defense of his adopted country. At his request the deceased was buried with military honors.

The funeral services took place at the M. E. Church Monday forenoon, conducted by Dr. GRAY and Rev. F. M. HAYES. A military escort, selected from the soldiers of this city, preceded the corpse to the graveyard to the solemn muffled tones of marshal music, and at the grave a farewell volley was fired by the escort. The funeral procession was very large. It was creditable to his neighbors and to the citizens of Clinton when we take into account the fact that the deceased was almost a stranger in this county. His business matters were all left in the hands of Mr. Jake Ziegler, and when his effects can be disposed of to advantage, the money is to be sent to Mr. Schwark’s parents in Germany. Quoting from the margin on his final discharge papers, Henry Schwark was “A good soldier, and excellent man.”

Martha Ann (LIVINGSTON) SCOGIN 

January 17, 1918
Heyworth Natural Gas
Heyworth, Illinois

Martha Ann LIVINGSTON was born in DeWitt County, Illinois near Soloman, March 16, 1849. She was married to Joseph K. SCOGIN February 15, 1866, who preceded her in death February 5, 1910. To this union was born eight sons, all living, and three daughters, two of whom died at the age of four months. She united with the Long Point Christian Church in 1860 and remained a devoted Christian to the end. Her membership was transferred to the Methodist church in February 1888. Her entire life was spent as a resident of DeWitt County, with the exception of two years just one mile over the line in McLean County.

As a devoted wife, loving mother, kind neighbor and sincere Christian, she could not be surpassed. For the last fifteen years she had lived in Wapella, Illinois, where after failing health and the decrepancies [sic] of age together with numerous attacks of sickness she answered the Master's call at her home in the presence of all her children, while the clock was striking six on the morning of January 7, 1918. Knowing the end was near, during the night before she died she called her children and gave final requests as to personal matters and in regard to her funeral. She was the grandmother of twenty-seven grandchildren, four of whom died in infancy. All of the remaining twenty-three, excepting the two youngest kissed her good bye the day before she passed away. Of her four brothers and five sisters, only two sisters remain to mourn her departure.

As we lay our mother to rest we feel we are standing on a mighty precipice, gazing into the fathomless abyss below, and wondering when the white sale [sic] of our own vessel will heave in sight. Funeral services were held in the Wapella Christian church, Wednesday, January 9, conducted by Rev. S. F. Spainhauer, formerly of Wapella, but now of Yale College, New Haven, Conn. The pallbearers were W. F. Stone, S. P. Deafley, P. J. Burke, John Greene, O. D. Short and Thos. Feaster. Interment was made in Sugar Grove cemetery. —P.A. Scogin

Submitted by Troy Semple

Mrs. Ann SCOTT 

September 19, 1884
Clinton Public

Death of Mrs. Ann Scott.

An aged mother died in Clinton this morning who had lived in this world for nearly eighty-three years. She was the mother of Mrs. R. BUTLER, and has been a member of our household for nearly twenty years. For the past three or four weeks Mother SCOTT had been gradually declining in health, but it was only one week ago that she was first confined to her bed. For a woman of her years she was unusually bright and active. She was not unprepared, for her whole life had been devoted to the service of the Lord. Born of Quaker parents in Leeds, England, nearly eighty-three years ago the teachings of her younger days were a reverence for God and for the Bible. This made her life one of perpetual sunshine and happiness. Of afflictions she had her share. In the first years of her married life she had a severe attack of sickness, which left her almost totally deaf. More than thirty years ago her husband died, and since then she has been called to mourn the death of her two oldest daughters and one son. Mother Scott was a true Christian. She was a woman of remarkably kind disposition. On account of her deafness she was in a great measure debarred from the pleasures of conversation, and this made her a continual reader. Her greatest comfort was that she could read the Bible. Not a day of her life for the past forty years went by without she read and meditated on the teachings of the Bible. On account of her infirmity she could not attend church, as she could not hear a word that was spoken by strangers, yet for all that she has for nearly thirty years been a member of the Methodist Church. The grand old soul was this morning reunited with her husband and children who had preceded her to the better land. She passed peacefully away this morning, having in her last hours the care and attention of her two daughters. Her youngest daughter, Mrs. Walton, came from Canada three weeks ago to pay her mother and sister a visit. We loved her as a mother; we shall miss her in the family circle.

Catherine (BARTON) SCOTT 

October 11, 1915
Paper Unknown

AGED RESIDENT DIES LEROY SUNDAY.
Came to Illinois When Seven Years of Age.

Mrs. William SCOTT, a well known resident of Heyworth, died at 4 o’clock Sunday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Myrtle WALL, southeast of LeRoy. Death followed an illness of six weeks, with paralysis. The maiden name of the deceased was Miss Catherine BARTON. She was born at Thornton, Ind., on March 24, 1850, and came to Illinois when seven years of age with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. William BARTON. Practically her entire life has been spent near Heyworth. She is survived by her husband and the following children: Charles of Midland City; Jennie MORSEMAN, of Normal; Mrs. May MILLS, of Dodgson, Mont.; Mrs. Myrtle WALL, of LeRoy; William, of Heyworth; Mrs. Minnie HOFFMAN, of Moulton, Ia.; Mrs. Lulu KUTZMAN, of Paxton, and Albert, of Weddington, Ia. The funeral services will be held on Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the Rock Creek church near Heyworth.

Submitted by Lara Braley

Charles SCOTT 

March 28, 1890
Clinton Public

Mr. Charles SCOTT died at the residence of J. B. ROLOFSON on Monday night, and was buried at Heyworth on Tuesday. His disease was strangulated hernia.

Dr. Crafton SCOTT 

January 12, 1900
Clinton Register

DR. SCOTT PASSES AWAY.
Dropsy and Heart Failure the Cause.
A Veteran of the Civil War.

Dr. Crafton SCOTT died at his home, corner Delavan and Hamilton streets, at 4 o'clock Monday morning, of dropsy and heart failure, aged 74 years. He had been in failing health for some time. For many years he was a practitioner, but in late years he has been unable to follow his professional calling. He leaves a wife and two daughters in this city and a brother in Waynesville. His only income has been a pension of $30 per month and he appears to have been liberal with that for he contributed to the support of others besides himself and his wife. Funeral services were held at the home Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Interment was made under the auspices of the G. A. R., of which he was a member.—Lincoln Times.

Dr. Scott was a cousin of Mrs. R. H. BENNETT, of this city, and this county was his home many years. Several years ago he lived in Texas township, moving to Waynesville, where he lived until five years ago, when he moved to Lincoln.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Curtis SCOTT 

July 25, 1890
Clinton Public

KILLED BY THE CARS.
Curtis Scott Meets a Frightful Death on a Dangerous Crossing.

Last night Curtis C. SCOTT, who lived near Pastime Park, in company with his son, aged 12 years, attended the circus in Clinton, and on their return home Mr. Scott was instantly killed and his son dangerously injured by the train due here at 11:35, bound east.

His home was just north of Tunbridge schoolhouse, and the crossing of the wagon road east of the school is a short distance from the curve of the railroad, and Mr. Scott was doubtless unaware of the approach of the train until it dashed around the curve. He was in a one-horse buggy, and the engineer stated that he saw the horse on the track, but not in time to stop the train. He saw the horse on the track as the train approached; he saw Mr. Scott strike the horse, and the animal lunged forward, pulling the buggy on the track just in time to be caught by the train.

As soon as possible the train was stopped and returned to the scene of the accident, where Mr. Scott and the boy were found. Mr. Scott was discovered about forty feet from the track, where he had been thrown against a rail fence. The left side of his head was crushed and life was extinct. The boy was picked up near by in an unconscious condition. Though Mr. Scott's home was near, no one on the train knew him, and the bodies were brought to Clinton, the train arriving here about 12 o'clock.

The body of Mr. Scott was placed in the depot and the boy taken to Zeigler’s hotel, where he soon became conscious and told his name, where his home was, and that it was his father who was with him. As it was said Mr. Scott’s little girl had been seen with her father at the show, several persons went to the scene of the accident by special train to make a search. H. C. Griffin, a brother-in-law of Mr. Scott, who lived near, was notified, and from him it was soon learned that only Mr. Scott and his son had come to Clinton, and that the girl was at home. The horse was found uninjured, with only the collar and bridle on. The engineer said he believed the horse would have been killed and the occupants of the buggy escaped unhurt had Mr. Scott not struck the horse with the whip as the buggy was not on the track before that time.

This morning relatives of the deceased came to Clinton and the body was placed in their care. The burial will take place tomorrow, conducted by Elder Clements. The place of burial has not been decided upon, but will be at the Texas or the Old Union cemetery.

As there were no witnesses except the train men, and they went through to Chicago with their train, the inquest was necessarily postponed till tomorrow morning, when they will return to Clinton. The jury selected by the coroner are J. A. Edmiston, M. D., S. A. Edwards, Frank Bates, J. H. Sparks, A. J. Morlan and Wm. Brittin.

Curtis C. Scott was born in Texas township and was 36 years old. His mother is Mrs. L. B. SPENCER, of Texas township. M. P. SCOTT, near Kenney, and L. D. SCOTT, who moved to California about two years ago, are his brothers. Mrs. H. C. STRANGE, of Texas township, Mrs. H. C. GRIFFIN, and Mrs. W. G. KIRBY, of Tunbridge, are his sisters. He was a man of no bad habits and had few if any enemies. He was sober and industrious and owned a little farm where he lived. He leaves a wife, from whom he had separated some months ago, and four children, the eldest being the boy who was hurt. The attending physician is hopeful of the boy's recovery, but his injuries are dangerous, the wounds being on the head.

Note: Mr. Scott was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery under the name John Curtis Scott.

Mrs. Curtis SCOTT 

August 1, 1913
Clinton Register

ANOTHER SUICIDE IS RECORDED.
MRS. SCOTT TAKES HER LIFE.
Had Been Demented for Several Years—
Lewis Lye Was the Method Used.

Mrs. Elizabeth SCOTT died in the Warner hospital at 6:05 Sunday evening as the result of taking lye with suicidal intent at her home on West Washington street last Friday evening between two and three o'clock.

Deceased had not been of sound mind for several years, and financial troubles culminated in the taking of her life. For several years she had been having trouble with her neighbors, and by many some of the latter are blamed for noticing her remarks at various times as they knew of her mental condition. Last week a petition was filed in the county court by Mrs. Charles Sumption, which was also signed by several other female residents on West Washington, asking that Mrs. Scott be cared for, as they considered her insane. The investigation was to have been held on Saturday, and by many it is thought that the deceased preferred death to a hospital for the insane, having already had experience in one of the state institutions several years ago. After taking the lye, in dry form, on Friday evening, she came out on her porch and announced the fact to a neighbor, but the latter was afraid to go to the home, and also did not believe the woman had taken the poison. Shortly after her screams attracted the attention of others, who hurried to the home and summoned a physician. Her throat and mouth were found to be badly burned, and at times it was necessary to administer stimulants, as she would lapse into a state of unconsciousness.

She was removed to the Warner hospital, where everything possible was done to relieve her sufferings, but from the start the physicians held out no hope for her recovery. Her sufferings were terrible, and death must have been a relief.

Deceased was born in the state of New York, and was the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth BURNS, coming to this state with her parents at the age of 16 years, when they came to DeWitt county and located near Kenney. She was married thirty-three years ago to Curtis SCOTT, the couple residing on a farm near Kenney for about ten years, her husband having been killed by a train while crossing the tracks in 1890, near Tunbridge school west of Clinton. Following the death of her husband she came to Clinton, where she had since resided.

Mrs. Scott was the mother of four children, three of whom survive: John SCOTT, of Round Lake, Minn.; Mrs. Leona ASHLEY, of Clinton; and Bert SCOTT, of Oskaloosa, Iowa. The fourth child, Mrs. Alta WISE, died at Pueblo, Col., nearly two years ago.

She is also survived by four brothers and a sister: John BURNS, residing near Kenney; Albert of near Forsythe; Ed and Daniel, of Clinton; and Mrs. Frances DIXON, of Aberdeen, S. Dakota.

Mrs. Scott was a member of the Christian church, with which denomination she united in girlhood, and was a regular attendant until her mental condition forbade her.

The body was removed from the hospital to the Oakman undertaking parlors, where it was prepared for burial. Later remains were taken to the late home on West Washington street.

Coroner Moore held an inquest at 8:30 Monday morning, the following composing the jury: Melvin Ledden, Sam Darby, E. M. Shepherd, F. M. Samuels, John Carroll and Fred Langenbacher. The jury returned a verdict of death by suicide.

Funeral services were held at the late home Tuesday afternoon at four o'clock, Rev. E. K. Towle officiating. Interment was in Woodlawn.

Daniel K. SCOTT 

July 26, 1901
Clinton Register

DEATH OF A PIONEER.

Daniel K. SCOTT died at his home five miles northwest of here on Saturday and was buried at Rock Creek cemetery Sunday afternoon. Mr. Scott was born in Tennessee May 24, 1819. He came to Illinois with his parents in 1827. He entered land at Long Point, walking to the land office in Danville, in 1839. He lived on this land ever since he entered it. He was married to Miss Margaret LINDLEY, near Bloomington, in 1839. To this union were born seven children, two dying in infancy. He leaves an aged wife, who is quite feeble, and four sons and one daughter, Mrs. E. COX, Daniel, John A., William P., and Wilson. He was 82 years, 1 month and 5 days old. Rev. Ennis conducted the funeral at 4 p.m. Sunday at Rock Creek church.

E. S. SCOTT 

June 3, 1904
Paper Unknown

E. S. SCOTT died Sunday at his home in Nevada, Mo., of Brights disease, aged 63 years. Funeral services were held in that place Tuesday. Deceased formerly resided in DeWitt county, at one time being town clerk of Texas township, leaving here for Missouri in about 1870. He was a son-in-law of H. H. BEAL of Clinton. He lives surviving, his wife and six children.

Submitted by Lara Braley

George SCOTT 

July 12, 1889
Clinton Public

Death of a Former Resident of DeWitt County.

On last Friday the PUBLIC briefly referred to the death of George SCOTT, who was formerly a resident of Creek township but of late years was a citizen of Norfolk, Virginia. On the 23d of May last Mr. Scott left his family and home for a trip to Europe. He was then in the best of health and looked forward to an enjoyable trip. On the arrival of the steamer at Queenstown Mr. Scott was prostrated by sickness, but he managed to hold out till he reached Dublin, where he was taken to a hospital for treatment. Seven years ago last February Mr. Scott was badly injured by the cars at Lane station, and his sickness at Queenstown developed trouble from his old wounds, and on the 15th of June the surgeons in the hospital performed an operation that gave him some relief. His sickness destroyed all desire to continue his journey, and on the 29th of June he went to Liverpool to return home, and there he died. The American consul at Liverpool sent a cablegram to Mr. Scott’s family at Norfolk announcing the death. No further particulars were received at that time. The family sent an order for the return of his remains to Norfolk. It was a sad death; far from home and family.

Mr. Scott was born in Newark, New Jersey, on the 27th of March, 1839, which made him fifty years and three months old at the time of his death. The first nine years of his life was spent in and around New York city, when his parents moved to Cincinnati, where Mr. Scott learned the trade of stove molding. When he was about seventeen years old his parents moved to Morgan county, in this State, where he worked on a farm till the breaking out of the rebellion, when he enlisted in an infantry regiment. At the battle of Shiloh he was severely wounded, and after serving fifteen months in the army he was discharged with a record of total disability on account of wounds. Returning to Morgan county he again resumed work on the farm, and on the 28th of July, 1863, he was married to Phebe Jane TAYLOR. Nine children were the result of this union, four sons and five daughters. In October, 1868, he moved his family to DeWitt county and bought the George SMALLWOOD farm in Creek township, of which he was the owner for fourteen years.

George Scott was a careful, prudent farmer, and every year he added a little to his stock of wealth. Although Mr. Scott was a radical Republican and lived in a stronghold of Democracy the sensible men of Creek township admired his worth as a citizen and for several years he held local office, and one year filled the office of supervisor of that township. In 1882 he sold his farm and moved to Norfolk, Virginia, where he engaged in the dairy business, and later in the hardware business with his son-in-law, in all of which he was very successful. He made large profits in several real estate transactions, and just at the time when he was getting ready to live and take life easy tattoo sounded and his light went out. He leaves his family comfortably provided for. He was a member of the G. A. R. Post and of the Masonic fraternity in Norfolk.

James SCOTT 

December 1, 1864
Clinton Public

Another Soldier Gone.

The body of James SCOTT, late of the 20th Ill. Reg., was conveyed to his last resting place on Saturday last. A military escort accompanied him to the grave. He passed through the privations, toils and perils of the battlefield to be suddenly killed by a train of cars, at Wapella.

James F. SCOTT 

January 12, 1912
Clinton Daily Public

J. F. SCOTT DIES.

James F. SCOTT, aged 55 years died at his home four miles northwest of Wapella Monday at 11:30 a.m., of Bright’s disease. He had been in poor health all summer and fall, and had been confined to the house for the past two months. Mr. Scott was united in marriage to Miss Mary BAKER of Heyworth in 1875. After six years the wife and companion was taken. Dec. 8, 1884, he was married to Miss Lethia BAKER, of Heyworth, and to this union were born seven children, five girls and two boys: Walter, Mrs. Myra DAVIS, Mrs. Mary DAVIS, of Waynesville; Kittie, Bessie, Jessie and Grace at home. He also leaves two sisters and two brothers; Mrs. Martha CISCO, Mrs. Nancy DeSPAIN, Charles of Wapella and Douglas of Oregon and his aged mother, Mrs. Sarah SCOTT. Mr. Scott united with the Christian church at Rock Creek when a young man, and remained true to his faith. Mr. Scott has been a prosperous farmer and had built a modern home of late. He was born near his late home in 1857.

Submitted by Lara Braley

Joseph W. SCOTT 

October 4, 1895
Clinton Public

Rev. J. S. COOK was driven overland from here by C. S. LAFFERTY to Long Point, Monday, where the reverend gentleman presided at 2:30 o'clock p.m. at the funeral of Joseph SCOTT, who died at that place Saturday night. Joseph Scott was a brother of George SCOTT, of Clinton, who attended the funeral services. Deceased had ill health for several years, and had tried the curative qualities of several health resorts in hopes of regaining his strength. All of his efforts were fruitless. When he returned from the Hot Springs, a few weeks ago, he gave up all hope of recovery and resigned himself to the inevitable.

Joseph W. Scott was born April 27, 1839, three miles east of Heyworth, on what is known as the Thomas Rutledge farm, and died September 28, 1895. He moved at the age of two years with his parents to the place where he died, and, with the exception of a few years, lived at that place all his life. He was married to Miss Emma PATTERSON March 19, 1868, who still survives him, and to this union were born eight children, four boys and four girls, five of whom are still living. He was a good companion and a kind father, and was well respected by all who knew him.

Margaret (LINLEY) SCOTT 

January 31, 1908
Clinton Register

DEATH NEAR WAPELLA.

Mrs. Margaret SCOTT, an old and respected resident of five and a half miles northwest of Wapella, died at 1 o'clock a.m., Tuesday. She was born July 22, 1818, in Kentucky. When 11 years old she, with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John LINLEY, came to Illinois and settled in McLean county. After her marriage she and her husband, Daniel SCOTT, went to housekeeping on the farm where she died. Mr. Scott died about 1901. She united with the Christian church when a young woman. She leaves one daughter, Mrs. William COX, residing in Long Point, and four sons, John and William, residing near the old home; Daniel K., at Waverly, Iowa; and Wilson, near Heyworth; also a number of grandchildren.

The funeral was held at the Rock Creek church Thursday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock, conducted by Rev. J. A. Finnell. Interment was in the cemetery near the church.

Sophia (QUINTEN) SCOTT 

March 17, 1911
Clinton Daily Public

MRS. T. F. SCOTT DIES.

Sophia SCOTT, wife of T. F. SCOTT, died at the family home three miles northwest of Wapella at 5:39 Wednesday evening. She was taken sick Sunday with peritonitis. Deceased was 47 years old and was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William QUINTEN. She was married to Mr. Scott Oct. 6, 1887. To this union were born eight children, Harry, John, William, Myrtle, Ethel, Ruth, Bernice, and Laura, all at home. She also leaves two sisters and one brother, Mrs. J.W. SMOOT, Mrs. William PERCIVAL and John QUINTEN, all residing near Heyworth. The funeral was held from the house today at 2 p.m., conducted by Rev. O.P. WRIGHT. Interment in the Rock Creek Cemetery.

Submitted by Lara Braley

William F. SCOTT 

January 31, 1913
Clinton Register

William F. SCOTT, one of Leroy's well known residents expired suddenly Tuesday morning at his home in that city, before medical aid could be summoned. He complained of rheumatism in the middle of the night. His wife arose and endeavored to help him, but he stated that he thought he would be all right within a few minutes. Before she could administer to his needs or summon medical aid he passed from this life. Mr. Scott married Miss Mary F. LOWE on December 28, 1871, who with three children survive: Mrs. Ida B. McDOWELL, of Hoopeston; Mrs. Cora HUDDLESTON and Ora M. SCOTT, both of Leroy. There are also four sisters surviving: Mrs. George WEST, Mrs. George CLINE, Mrs. W. H. HOWARD and Mrs. Simeon CRUMBAUGH, all residing in or near Leroy. The deceased was well and favorably known and leaves a large number of friends who mourn his loss.

Mrs. Barbara L. SEE 

January 15, 1892
Clinton Public

After Long Years of Suffering.

Death came as a blessed relief to Mrs. Barbara L. SEE last Wednesday morning, after seven long and weary years of suffering from cancer. Yet during all her pain she was one of the most cheery of souls and tried to look at the bright side of life. Mr. John SEE was transferred from Effingham to Clinton nearly nine years ago by the Western Union Telegraph Co., and was appointed superintendent of all the telegraph lines connected with the Illinois Central system that centered in Clinton. A year or so afterward the first indication of cancer developed in Mrs. See, and slowly and steadily the terrible disease ate into her system. No expense was spared by her husband in seeking the most learned medical advice, but without avail. Doctors may advertise remedies and promise to cure cancer, but we never heard of a single case that its progress was even stayed.

Mrs. See was born in Lancaster, Penn., April 19, 1839, and died Wednesday, January 13, 1892, at the age of fifty-two years, eight months and twenty five days. She was united in marriage to John R. See on the 14th of October, 1873. This afternoon her body will be interred in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Mrs. Betsey SEELEY 

January 18, 1884
Clinton Public

Mrs. Betsey SEELEY, mother of Mrs. Samuel MAGILL, died in this city on Wednesday night. The old lady was in her eighty-eighth year, and till a few months past was blessed with excellent health. She was buried this afternoon in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Charles SELLARS 

August 3, 1906
Paper Unknown

RAILROAD MAN KILLED.

Charles SELLARS, night foreman at the central freight office was killed Wednesday night. A car was being switched in and he was on the ladder on the side of it. The track is near the freight house, and he leaned out to far, striking the corner of the building. He was thrown between the cars and run over. Both legs were crushed below the knees and was horribly bruised about the body. He was taken to the infirmary but nothing could be done for him. He died about 3 o'clock, about four hours after the accident. Deceased was born in Indiana Dec. 12, 1861, and was married to Miss Anna SHAFFER, Feb. 26, 1885 in Macon County, Ill. Four children were born to the union, who with their mother survive. They had lived in Clinton about 15 years and for eight years had been in the Central's employ. He was a modern woodsman and had a $3,000 policy.

Submitted by Unknown

Peter SELLARS 

February 13, 1903
Clinton Register

KILLED BY CENTRAL TRAIN.
Former Resident of Clinton Received Injuries That Cause His Death in a Few Hours.

Peter SELLARS died about two o'clock this morning at his home in Decatur from injury received early yesterday morning. He accompanied his wife and daughter to the 5 o'clock train from Decatur; they were coming to this city to visit J. A. EDMISTON, Mrs. SELLAR's cousin, who is sick, and Mr. Sellars bid them good-bye a few minutes before the train started. After leaving them he started along the track north to his home. Being hard of hearing he did not hear the approaching train and was overtaken, one foot being cut off just above the ankle, the other foot badly mashed, besides other injuries. The train was stopped and the men passengers carried Mr. Sellars back to the depot. Mrs. Sellars and daughter remained on the train until the men were again in their seats and the train almost ready to start when Mrs. Sellars heard someone say it was Peter Sellars who was hurt. He was taken to his home and a doctor called; he said the other foot must be taken off and that he must first be taken to a hospital. As this was over a mile drive, he was too near dead to have the operation performed till afternoon.

Peter Sellars was about 70 years old and moved from Clinton to Sullivan a few years ago and from there to Decatur three years ago. While here he had enough property to keep his family so that he worked but little. Since then he had made deals that lost him most of his property and worked by the day. Besides his wife, a son and four daughters survive him, all living at home, except the son who is attending school in Lincoln.

(See news article)

Rev. Alexander SEMPLE 

June 22, 1883
Clinton Public

DEATH OF REV. ALEX. SEMPLE.

From the telegraphic dispatches in yesterday's dailies we learn that the Rev. Alexander SEMPLE died of paralysis, at his home in Moawequa [Shelby County], Ill. He was stricken with paralysis last Monday, from which he did not rally. Mr. Semple was pastor of the M. E. Church in this city twenty-six years ago, and remained here two years. At that time he was considered one of the brightest young men in the conference. After leaving here he filled some of the best appointments in the conference, and for four years filled the office of presiding elder on the Champaign district. Four years ago he was returned to the pastoral charge of the church here, and at the end of a year he was transferred to circuit work. Mr. Semple was an Irishman by birth, and had lived only a few years in this country when he joined the Illinois conference. He leaves a widow and three children. He was prudent in financial matters, so that he leaves his family comfortably provided for.

Mrs. Allen SENEFF 

October 5, 1883
Clinton Public

Mrs. Allen SENEFF died last Friday and was buried at the Chapel cemetery Saturday. The funeral sermon was preached by Rev. A. McCONKEY to a large and sympathizing congregation. Mrs. Seneff was a member of the M. E. church and highly respected and loved by all who knew her. She leaves a husband and seven children to mourn their loss.

Ira SESSIONS 

February 6, 1891
Clinton Public

Ira SESSIONS came to this county from Ohio in 1849, and for forty-two years was a resident in the vicinity of Waynesville. He had reached the ripe age of eighty-eight years when death called him last Friday afternoon. He was father of E. D. Sessions, the postmaster in Waynesville, and for years made his home with his son. Ira Sessions was a native of Vermont, but moved with his parents to Ohio in 1813. His life was spent on a farm and he was successful in accumulating sufficient property to provide for his old age.

Mrs. Ira SESSIONS 

February 20, 1868
Clinton Public

DIED.—In Waynesville, Feb. 6th, after a long and painful illness, Mrs. SESSIONS, relict of Ira Sessions, aged sixty-five years.

Marcellus SESSIONS 

June 29, 1888
Clinton Public

Marcellus SESSIONS was born in Vermont, but when a child his father came west to Ohio. More than forty years ago the Sessions family came to Clinton, before Marcellus had arrived at man’s estate, and in and near Clinton has been the home of the family since that time. Macellus Sessions owned a farm north of this city. In early life he was married to the daughter of Jacob LONG, who lived in the two-story frame house on East Main street, now occupied by Clint RICHARDS. They raised an excellent family, and the Sessions boys are among the best young men of this county. Father and sons labored diligently to make a comfortable home, and in this they were successful. Death invaded the homestead last Monday night, and took from it the beloved husband and father. Mr. Sessions had only been sick for two or three days, being suddenly stricken down with rheumatism of the heart. At his death he was only sixty years, seven months and nine days old. His life was a part of the history of DeWitt county. He was a man of strictly moral habits, a sound Republican, and a kind neighbor and friend.

Mrs. Mary SHAFFER 

October 20, 1899
Clinton Public

Died in Hospital.

Mrs. Mary SHAFFER, an inmate at the Kankakee insane hospital from DeWitt county, died there Oct. 12. Remains were buried last Saturday morning at Waynesville, her former home. Deceased was a divorced wife of Joseph SHAFFER and mother of Nute MERFORD, of this city.

--------------------

Friday, October 20, 1899
Clinton Register

Mrs. Mary SHAFER, who formerly lived near Waynesville, died in the hospital at Kankakee. Burial was in the Waynesville cemetery Saturday.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

L R. SHANNON 

November 10, 1899
Clinton Register

KILLED BY THE CARS.
L. R. Shannon Meets a Horrible Death.— Had Been in Clinton Three Days.

L. P. SHANNON, of Vandalia, was killed while switching in the yards Wednesday night about 10 o'clock. No one saw how the accident happened but it was thought he fell from the top of a car. He had been at work in Clinton only three days. A wife and three or four children survive him. His wife was away on a visit when her husband was killed.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Frank SHARLEY 

February 7, 1890
Clinton Public

Frank SHARLEY, of Peabody, Kansas, a former resident of Creek township, while out with some other young men running jackrabbits, was violently thrown from his horse against a barb-wire fence and was killed, being horribly mangled. He lived but a few hours. Mr. Sharley was a cousin to the PALMERS of this city and county, moving to Kansas some twelve years since.

John SHAVER 

January 2, 1914
Clinton Register

DEATH OF WELDON RESIDENT.

John SHAVER, aged 75 years, a well known resident of Weldon, died at 2:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon in Warner hospital in Clinton. Death was caused from dropsy, with which the deceased had suffered for some time. He was a veteran of the civil war and a retired farmer. Besides his wife, he leaves four children, Mrs. Ethel KINGSTON, of Weldon, and Opal, Roy and Earl at home. There is also a sister, Mrs. Haney, who lives in Weldon.

Mrs. Robert SHAW 

February 6, 1885
Clinton Public

Mrs. Robert SHAW, of Heyworth, the mother of Mrs. J. A. COOK, died suddenly last Wednesday.

W. G. SHAW 

September 29, 1899
Clinton Register

AT FOUR SCORE AND SIX.
William G. Shaw, One of the County's Oldest Settlers, Died at His Home Near Clinton.

About three weeks ago W. G. SHAW, living three and a half miles southeast of Clinton, fell and sustained injuries which resulted in his death Wednesday. When he fell he was returning to the house from where his corn was being shelled, and suddenly became dizzy. He was one of the oldest residents of the county, and had lived here nearly fifty years, coming from Clermont county, O., where he was born. Before coming to Illinois he was married to Miss VANDERVORT. To them six children were born, three of whom are living. They are Mrs. J. H. PARKER, of Maroa, Jas. M., and Ebert M., the latter living on the homestead with his father. J. M. lives near the home place.

Deceased had always been industrious and long since accumulated a comfortable fortune. His age was 86 years, 8 months and 27 days, and had it not been for the accident would perhaps have lived several years. He was one of the county's most prosperous farmers and was held in high esteem by all who had the honor of his friendship.

Funeral services were held at the residence yesterday at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. MacArthur. Interment was in Woodlawn cemetery.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Thomas SHAY 

December 25, 1896
Clinton Public

Funeral of Thomas Shay.

Thomas SHAY, father of Mrs. W. Z. DEWEY, died in Quincy, Ill., Wednesday night of old age. Remains will be brought to Clinton today for burial. Funeral services will be held at the home of Mrs. Dewey this afternoon at 3 o'clock, Rev. Father M. A. DOOLING officiating. Mr. Shay was born in County Kerry, Ireland, in 1823. He was a man of many noble qualities of heart, endearing himself to many friends. He was a soldier in the civil war, having an honorable record.

Patrick SHEEHAN 

January 4, 1901
Clinton Register

SUDDEN DEATH.

Patrick SHEEHAN died suddenly at his home in this city Tuesday, aged 76. He had not been well, but had not been thought dangerous by his family. On Tuesday forenoon he seemed worse and a doctor was called, but death came a short time after the message was sent. Deceased was born in Ireland in 1825 and came to this country when young. After living in LaSalle, Ill., he came to Clinton which had been his home for nearly fifty years. He was married to Bridget MURPHY in Bloomington, and four children were born to them, John and William, Mrs. A. F. ELY and Mary, all of whom are living, except John. Funeral was held in St. John's church at 9 o'clock yesterday, conducted by Father DOOLING.

Mrs. Patrick SHEEHAN 

March 1892
Paper Unknown

The wife of Mr. Patrick SHEEHAN died on Wednesday evening, and this afternoon she was buried from St. John’s Catholic Church, Father DOOLING conducting the services.

Submitted by Debbie Champion

Edward, Thomas & Morris SHEEHY 

December 19, 1918
Clinton Daily Public

EPIDEMIC TAKES 3 IN SHEEHY FAMILY.
Three Sons of Mrs. Mary Sheehy, 1½ Miles West of City, Succumb to Flu—
Two Die Today.

Edward, aged 27, Thomas, aged 20, and Morris, aged 16, the last male survivors of the late Michael SHEEHY family, one of the best known in DeWitt county, are dead. The three boys, the only support of their aged mother, Mrs. Mary SHEEHY, residing on the home place, one and one-half miles west of Clinton, passed away within 36 hours of each other, all succumbing to attack of influenza and pneumonia. The grief and sorrowing at the Sheehy home is undescribable and the mother and two sisters are heart-broken and nearly prostrate. Edward, the oldest son, died Tuesday evening at 7:30 o'clock, Thomas, aged 20, passed away at 2:30 o'clock this morning and Morris, the youngest aged 16 and the last, died about eight hours later at 11 o'clock today.

For the first time probably in the history of this county, a triple funeral of a single family will be held at the same time. The Sheehy boys will be buried Saturday afternoon. The services will be held at 3 o'clock at the home and interment made in Woodlawn cemetery. Rev. A. M. Wells of the Methodist church will be in charge of the ceremonies. The funeral arrangements of the oldest son had been completed and the death of his brothers following made it necessary that the bodies of the others be laid to rest at the same time. The entire community of Clinton and the county extends its sympathy to the bereaved family.

Edward SHEEHY was born in DeWitt county at the family home place in 1891. He resided always in this community and grew to manhood here. At the death of his father, the late Michael Sheehy, several years ago, the young man and his brothers took over the management of the Sheehy farm of several hundred acres. About ten days ago deceased was stricken with influenza gradually developing into a serious attack of pneumonia. He passed away at 7:30 o'clock Tuesday night. He was well known and liked and had a host of friends.

Thomas SHEEHY, the second son, aged 20, was born in DeWitt county on January 1, 1898. He was actively engaged in assisting on the farm. He was also a popular young man and received his education in the local schools. At the time of his brother Edward’s demise, he was seriously ill at the home with pneumonia and even at that time little hopes were entertained for his recovery. His mother and two sisters were constantly at his bedside. He passed away at 2:30 o'clock this morning.

With two of her three sons lying dead, the hopes were centered on the last and only male survivor, Morris. Morris was born on the family place on January 31, 1902. He also worked upon the farm and went to school. When his brothers were taken ill the lad also had acquired an attack of influenza which also went into the deathly pneumonia. He died at 11 o'clock this morning.

The Sheehy family now consists of the widow Mary Sheehy and two daughters, Anna, aged 23, who is manager of the Western Union Telegraph Co.’s offices at Paxton and Miss Theresa, aged about 20, at home. Both were at the bedside of their brothers when the deaths occurred. Miss Anna, however, arrived from Paxton Tuesday, a little too late to see her brother Edward alive. Nothing sadder has occurred in this vicinity in years, and it is hoped that the ravagings of the disease will soon desist.

Michael SHEEHY 

January 6, 1911
Clinton Register

Well Known Resident Dies.

After an illness of several months, Michael SHEEHY died of lung trouble at St. Joseph’s hospital, Bloomington, Sunday, January 1, at 2:30 p.m.

Michael Sheehy was born in Woodstock, Champaign county, O., Jan. 22, 1865. At the age of three years he came with his parents to Illinois and was reared up on a farm near Clinton. He attended the public schools of this city, and about twenty years ago was married to Mary SKELLY. Five children were born to this couple, all of whom, with the widow, survive. The children, who all live at home are: Edward, Anna, Teresa, Thomas and Morris. He also leaves two sisters and two brothers, Mrs. S. F. CONKLIN and Mrs. Katherine WINEGARDNER, and a brother, Thomas, of this city, and a brother, John, of Peoria.

Deceased was well known and liked by all. He had resided on a farm which he had paid for by hard work and good management, for the past 20 years. On this farm he conducted a dairy business, selling his product to Clinton customers. His milk wagon, and the unique sign, "Mike’s Wet Goods," was a familiar sight to all. Mr. Sheehy was of an exceptional good nature, and always had a pleasant word and a smile for his acquaintances and friends.

Deceased was taken sick last fall and, shortly after, tuberculosis developed. Physicians were of the opinion the disease could be controlled, and last week he was taken to Bloomington in hopes that good care and attention might produce a cure, but pneumonia had set in and in his weakened condition death shortly followed.

The funeral services were held from St. John’s Catholic church at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, conducted by Rev. Father Cummings. Remains were laid to rest in Woodlawn.

Daisy Ella SHELL 

October 21, 1887
Clinton Public

On Tuesday Mr. Amos SHELL’s one-year-old baby, Daisy Ella, died. Mr. Shell is an engineer on the Central road.

Kate (COBB) SHEPHERD 

September 21, 1906
Clinton Register

DEATH OF AN AGED MOTHER.
Passed Away Early This Morning at the Home of F. C. Shepherd near Birkbeck—
Funeral Sunday.

At 4 o'clock this morning Mrs. Kate SHEPHERD died at the home of her stepson, F. C. Shepherd, near Birkbeck, aged 65. She had been afflicted nearly all her life, and for a year had been almost helpless, but was not confined to her bed until about four weeks ago. Two weeks ago she was taken to her son's home.

Deceased's maiden name was COBB, and she was born at Warrensburg, Ky., in February, 1841. In 1867 she was married to F. M. SHEPHERD at Collinsville, Ill. After a few years in Illinois, they moved to Richmond, Kan., where they lived about thirty years. Two years ago last June they came to Clinton and occupied the new home built for them on South Monroe street. She united with the Baptist church when 20 years old and had remained a faithful Christian. She bore her affliction patiently and seemed willing to join friends on the other shore.

Funeral services will be held at the home of F. C. Shepherd Sunday at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. E. A. GILLILAND. Burial in Woodlawn cemetery.

Mrs. James SHEPPARD 

July 27, 1883
Clinton Public

The remains of Mrs. James SHEPPARD, who died last Sunday morning, were interred in Woodlawn Cemetery on Tuesday. For many years Mrs. Sheppard has battled with that dread disease, consumption, but it progressed slowly yet certain, and finally culminated in her death.

Mrs. Dell SHINNEMAN 

October 15, 1909
Clinton Register

Mrs. Dell SHINNEMAN died at her home near Cerro Gordo, her death being caused by accident some time ago. She was driving a horse and was in a cart to which a rope, used in hoisting hay into the barn, was tied. The cart was upset and she was so badly hurt that there was little hope for her recovery.

Harter SHINNEMAN 

September 8, 1893
Clinton Public

Case of Melancholy Madness.

Harter SHINNEMAN was an unmarried man of about 24 years old and had no small vices that would make life a burden to him, yet he shot a hole into his body, near the region of the heart, on Thursday afternoon of last week (Aug. 31), and that was the end of him. He belonged in the neighborhood of Weldon but last spring had rented a farm less than four miles south-east of Maroa, and he lived there with a family to keep house for him. Life ought to have been bright for Harter Shinneman, but an unseen cloud seemed to hover over him, which brought on despondency and then death. People call it cowardice when a man takes his own life. Does anybody believe that a sane man will commit suicide? He may be right in all things but one; but somewhere a cog slips and the poor fellow cannot resist the temptation to end his imaginary troubles. A week ago Harter complained to the family with whom he was boarding that he did not feel well, and he wanted to be taken to his father’s home at Weldon. The man promised to drive him to Weldon in the cool of the evening. After dinner he remained in his room, and after Mr. HORNBECK had gone to work, Harter killed himself with a revolver. He left a note, saying: “This is nobody’s fault but my own. I bid you all good-bye. Nobody to blame but myself.” The body was taken to Weldon and buried on Saturday morning (Sept. 2).

Note: Harter was the son of Isaac SHINNEMAN

Mary (RUSK) SHINNEMAN 

August 16, 1889
Clinton Public

Mary M. RUSK, daughter of John M. and Samantha RUSK, was born in Morgan county, Ohio, March 10th, 1839, and died at Weldon, Ill., August 13, 1889, aged 50 years, 5 months and 3 days. She was united in marriage to Isaac SHINNEMAN at St. Louis, Mo., September 10th, 1855. They settled in DeWitt county, near Weldon. This has always been their home with the exception of a few months. Seven sons and one daughter were born to them. Cylus P. and William R. preceded their mother to the spirit land. John is married and lives at DeWitt. Milo J. lives with his family near Tomlinson, Champaign county, and Emma D. is married and lives in Vermilion county. Ira, Harter and Charlie live at home and are members of the M. E. Church. Their conversion was the source of great comfort their mother. She always prayed that her husband and the other children might be converted also.

Sister Shinneman united with the Christian Church in the fall of 1856. During the year 1863 she united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, from which time she continued a member of the same. In life she was bright, good natured and ambitious. As a wife, she was true; as a mother, loving; as a neighbor and friend, kind and obliging.

During her long illness she manifested a patience and hope born of trust in Christ. Her words of faith and prayer will ever be remembered by those who entered her chamber of suffering. As a farewell to her husband and children, these words of her favorite hymn may be treasured:

“Weep not my friends, my friends, weep not for me,
   All is well, all is well;
There’s not a cloud that doth arise, |
   To hide my Saviour from mine eyes,
I soon shall mount the upper skies,
   All is well, all is well.”

The funeral services were held Thursday, at the M. E. Church and were conducted by the pastor. The life of the deceased was sketched, words of consolation were addressed to the sorrowing, and a sermon was preached to the living from 1 Cor. 15:56, 57.

A large concourse of friends followed the remains to the Weldon cemetery, where sister Shinneman’s body awaits the general resurrection of the dead. — F. B. Madden

Note: This article misspelled the name Shinneman as Shineman, so it was corrected.

Clara (SESSIONS) SHIPMAN 

June 29, 1894
Clinton Public

Killed by Accident.

On last Monday Mr. Darr SESSIONS, Waynesville, received a dispatch from Bevington, Iowa, announcing the terrible news that his daughter, Mrs. Clara SHIPMAN, had been accidentally killed by her husband. S. SHIPMAN is the operator and station agent for the Rock Island road at Bevington, and as he was liable to attack for the purpose of robbery, he bought a new revolver for protection. He was showing his wife how to use it when the revolver was accidentally discharged, the bullet entering Mrs. Shipman's head, producing almost instant death. Mr. Sessions telegraphed to have the body of his daughter sent to Waynesville for interment, but owing to the hot weather it could not be done. Mrs. Shipman was born in Waynesville and spent her life there till she married and went with her husband to Iowa. She had no children. She was a young woman, and had been married only a couple of years.

Jeremiah SHOEMAKER 

February 17, 1899
Clinton Public

AN OLD SOLDIER IS DEAD.
Jeremiah Shoemaker, a Retired Farmer of Lanes, Passes Away.
STRICKEN WITH PARALYSIS.
Was One of the Oldest Residents of DeWitt County.

Jeremiah SHOEMAKER, one of the oldest residents of DeWitt county, died at midnight on February 9th, at his home in Lanes, aged 68 years. The direct cause of his death was paralysis. On Wednesday night, February 1st, while in Bowman’s hardware store at Lanes, he was stricken with an attack of paralysis and taken to his home, where he was partially restored to consciousness. He never recovered and remained in bed, being in a comatose condition until his death. Deceased was a retired farmer, and until a few years ago occupied a farm in the Shaw neighborhood east of Clinton. He served in the civil war as a member of the 107th Ill. Inf., and was an honored member of the G. A. R. post of Weldon.

Besides his mother, aged 92 years, living in Iowa, deceased leaves five children to mourn the loss of a kind and loving father, Mrs. Mamie MILLER of Lanes; Chas. SHOEMAKER and Mrs. Lizzie HOFF, residing in Clinton; Mrs. Jennie JONES and Hattie SHOEMAKER, in Iowa. Funeral services were held at his late home in Lanes at 1 o’clock Saturday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Mr. FERMAN. Remains were in charge of the Grand Army post of Weldon. Interment in Rose cemetery.

--------------------

February 24, 1899
Clinton Public

An Error Corrected.

DeLand, Ill., February 18, 1899

EDITOR PUBLIC.—There was an error in the account of Jeremiah SHOEMAKER’s death in last week’s issue if THE PUBLIC. He did not belong to the 107th regiment, but to Co. F. 2d Ill. Cavalry. He was badly wounded at Holly Springs. I visited him while he was in the hospital.— Respectfully, Henry Gessford.

Note: The family spells the name SHUMAKER.

Stell SHRIVER 

January 9, 1914
Clinton Register

DIED IN MISSOURI.

Miss Stell SHRIVER, for many years a resident of Clinton, died this week in Missouri, aged 39 years. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. L. SHRIVER, and was a niece of Mrs. Harriet SMITH, of Clinton, also of George FRAMBERS, who for many years was employed at the Magill House, and now lives in Michigan. She was a member of the M. E. church. She was buried in Missouri.

John A. SHRUM 

September 10, 1886
Clinton Public

Another Suicide, but not in Clinton This Time.

Among the telegraphic dispatches in the daily papers last Tuesday was a six-line paragraph, which announced that John A. SHRUM was found dead by the roadside near his home at DuQuoin, Ill., with a bullet-hole through his brain. It was evident that he had committed suicide. A few days before, SHRUM left this city for his home. For about a year he had been working in Kelly's bakery, and for the past two or three years he had been living in and near Clinton. His parents reside at DuQuoin. His brother was at one time in the employ of the Illinois Central company and worked in the freight yards in this city. John Shrum was a quiet, inoffensive youth, and gave close attention to the interests of his employers. No reason can be learned here why he committed suicide, for when he left Clinton it was with the intention of going back to his home.

Clara SHURTLEFF 

May 26, 1882
Clinton Public

Miss Clara SHURTLEFF, one of the purest and best of women, passed from earth to heaven last Wednesday morning, at two o’clock. She had been confined to her bed for months, suffering untold pain, but she calmly and patiently awaited the summons which would free her spirit from its mortal tenement. Miss Shurtleff was a woman who devoted her life to the good of others, and that she might better accomplish her purpose she left home and dear friends and went to New Mexico as a teacher in the mission schools. Her health failing her, she was obliged to come home. Miss Shurtleff was the sister of Mrs. J. B. HALDEMAN, at whose house she died. She was born at Glenn Falls, New York, and at the time of her death she was in her thirty-ninth year. Her body was sent to Glenn Falls, New York, where it will be buried in the family burying ground. Mr. and Mrs. Haldeman accompanied the remains to Pana on Wednesday evening.

Kate SHURTLEFF 

June 13, 1890
Clinton Public

Miss Kate SHURTLEFF, daughter of the late Dr. B. K. SHURTLEFF, died in Winnebago City, Minn., yesterday morning. Her remains will arrive in Clinton this afternoon at four o'clock for interment in Woodlawn Cemetery. Miss Shurtleff was born in this city and was about twenty-one years old.

John SIMERAL 

January 21, 1887
Clinton Public

John SIMERAL, whose condition has been hopeless for some time, died at his residence, north-east of here, Saturday morning of consumption. He leaves a wife and one small child to mourn his death. His little child is said to be very low with the same disease. The wife and relatives of the deceased, to whom the loss must be very heavy have the sympathy of the entire community. In Mr. Simeral's death we lose one of our best , most honest and intelligent citizens, and it is sad to think he should be taken away in the midst of his usefulness. For years he has been suffering from consumption, and early this winter went to Florida. Unable to obtain relief, he returned home, where he remained until his death.

Mrs. Emily SIMMONS 

Wednesday, March 11, 1931
Decatur Daily Review

(Obituary Extract)

Name: Emily Rosamond Simmons.
Age: 14.
Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Harry Simmons.
Date of Death: Sunday, March 8, 1931.
Place of Death: Clinton, Illinois.
Funeral: First Christian church, 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, 1931; Rev. H. B. Wheaton officiating; W. N. Pullen in charge of funeral arrangements.
Interment: Woodlawn cemetery.
Note: "Rosie" Simmons was my aunt. She died of complications of diabetes exactly one week after her brother, Harry Russell "Buster" Simmons, had died from pneumonia.

Submitted by Erik Thorson

Harry Russell SIMMONS 

March 3, 1931
Decatur Daily Review

(Obituary Extract)

HARRY SIMMONS' BURIAL WEDNESDAY.

Name: Harry Russell SIMMONS
Age: 13
Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Harry Simmons (Harry Arthur Simmons and Marie Luella Lillard)
Died: Sunday, March 1, 1931; Clinton, Illinois
Cause of Death: Pneumonia
Funeral: Wednesday, March 4, 1931, 2:30 p.m., at First Christian church, Clinton, Illinois; Rev. H. B. Wheaton officiating.
Interment: Woodlawn cemetery, W. N. Pullen in charge.

Submitted by Erik Thorson

--------------------

March 3, 1931
Decatur Daily Review

HARRY SIMMONS’ BURIAL WEDNESDAY.

Clinton, Ill.-Harry Russell SIMMONS, thirteen-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry SIMMONS, of Clinton, who died at the family home in that city late Sunday evening following an illness of less than two days with pneumonia. The boy was a student at the Washington school and popular as a basketball player. Funeral services will be conducted from the First Christian church in Clinton Wednesday afternoon at 2:30, the Rev. H. B. Wheaton, pastor of the church officiating. Interment will be in Woodlawn cemetery, W. N. Pullen in charge.

Note: Harry was the son of Harry Arthur Simmons and Marie Luella Lillard.

Angeline (JAMES) SIMPSON 

September 15, 1882
Clinton Public

Mrs. Angie SIMPSON, wife of Mr. Samuel SIMPSON, died at her home in Rantoul on last Sunday. Mr. Henry SIMPSON's family went to Rantoul to attend the funeral.

Note: Mrs. Simpson's maiden name was Angeline James. She was the wife of Samuel Merrick Simpson

Ann (HARTSOCK) SIMPSON 

February 3, 1899
Clinton Public

DEATH CAUSED BY THE GRIPPE.
Funeral Was Held at the Home Monday Afternoon.

Mrs. SIMPSON, widow of the late Henry SIMPSON, died at her home one mile southeast of Clinton Friday night Feb. 3rd 1899, at 11 o’clock of catarrhal fever caused by the grippe. She was taken sick Saturday January 20th. Nothing serious was feared at first, but in the very short space of one week’s illness she was called to meet her husband, who had recently passed over to life’s eternal home of never ending joys.

Mrs. Ann (HARTSOCK) Simpson was born near Xenia, Ohio, Greene county, Aug. 14, 1823. She was the daughter of George and Elizabeth HARTSOCK and was the seventh child of a family of eleven children of whom only one brother survives her, Geo. HARTSOCK, who lives southeast of Clinton near Weldon Springs. The Hartsock family settled in Virginia and were of German birth and antecedents. George and Elizabeth Hartsock were Universalists and being so earnestly impressed with this doctrine they bought and sent to each member of their family for one year "The Star In The West," a Univeralist journal published at Cincinnati, Ohio. This remarkable family of eleven children all lived to maturity before the death sickle separated them. Ann Hartsock was married to Henry Simpson in the state of Ohio Oct. 19th, 1845, and for fifty-five years they walked life’s road together, sharing its joys and dividing its sorrows. Three children were born to them, all daughters, all of whom are living, Mrs. M. R. COLWELL, Mrs. Jacob ZIEGLER and Miss Lou SIMPSON, all residents of this county.

Mrs. Simpson was a woman of noble character and in all respects a perfect wife and mother, and for every sacrifice her reward seemed great, as she saw her children living lives of usefulness and possessing and living the same virtuous life that she had lived. All who knew mother Simpson had words of praise for her. She was always ready to help the needy and no one who was worthy was ever turned from her door without her alms giving. Hers was a life full of good deeds and great will be her reward.

Funeral services were held at her late home Monday afternoon, January 30th at 2 o’clock, conducted by Rev. John S. COOK, of Leroy, assisted by Rev. Chas. W. E. GOSSOW, of Clinton. The pall bearers were 6 of the deceased’s nephews, E. N. WILLIAMSON, Samuel CRAMER, Perry CRAMER, Emerson HARTSOCK, William HARTSOCK and Chas. HARTSOCK. Interment was in Woodlawn cemetery.

Note: Ann died on Friday January 27th, not Feb. 3rd, which is obvious by the fact that the funeral was held on Jan. 30th. She and her husband were married fifty-one years, not fifty-five.

Anna (MERRICK) SIMPSON 

January 8, 1886
Clinton Public

Death of Mother Simpson.

On the 28th of December, at the advanced age of over ninety-three years, Mrs. Anna SIMPSON, mother of Mr. Henry SIMPSON, passed from this life to the world beyond. Mrs. Simpson was born in Bristol, Bucks county, Pennsylvania, on the 25th of September, 1792. Her maiden name was Anna MERRICK. On the 13th of April, 1820, she was united in marriage to Samuel SIMPSON. They lived in New Jersey and Pennsylvania for thirteen years and then moved by wagon over the Allegheny Mountains to Wheeling, VA., where they took passage on a boat to Cincinnati, Ohio. They landed in Cincinnati in the autumn of 1833, on the night made memorable in history by the shower of stars. For twenty-two years they lived in Montgomery county, Ohio, and in 1855 came to this county. Samuel Simpson died near this city on the 15th of October, 1862, and from that time Mother Simpson made her home with her son Henry. More than forty-five years ago she united with the church, and during her life she remained faithful to the vows she had taken as a Christian. She was the mother of eight children, of whom two daughters, Mrs. Martha CRAMER and Mrs. Seward MISKELLY, and two sons, Henry and S. M. SIMPSON, survive her. Mrs. Simpson had lived under the administration of every President of the United States, from Washington down to Cleveland.

Clarence Ray SIMPSON 

Date Unknown
Paper Unknown

(Obituary Extract)

C. R. Simpson Died Today.

Name: Clarence Ray SIMPSON, age 84 of Decatur
Retired from the Illinois Central Railroad, as a locomotive engineer
Born: April 24, 1891 in Oconee, Ill.
Died: at 2:07 a.m. in the Americana Nursing Center, Decatur.
Parents: Oliver Presley and Flo (HENDRICKS) SIMPSON
Married: Leota BESS at Rosamund August 8, 1911; Leota died June 17, 1974
Survivors: two daughters, four sons, four sisters, 13 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren
Member of the Pana Lodge 226, AF and AM, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers
Funeral:  Funeral services at BRITLINGER’s Funeral Home, Thursday, Sept. 11, 1:00 p.m.
Masonic services conducted at 8:00 p.m. Wednesday Sept. 10
Visitation after 7:00 p.m.
Burial: Interment in the Star of Hope Mausoleum, Graceland Cemetery

Submitted by Debbie Champion

Henry SIMPSON 

December 18, 1896
Clinton Public

DEATH OF HENRY SIMPSON.
He Had Been Sick for Over a Year With Bright's Disease.

Henry SIMPSON died at his late home, southeast of Clinton, on Friday evening [Dec. 11th] of Bright's disease of the kidneys, aged 74 years, 2 months and 13 days. The deceased located on his late homestead, one mile southeast of here, in October 1855. He was born in Trenton, N. J., on September 29, 1822. He lived with his parents in Pennsylvania and Ohio, and with them located in DeWitt county. At the age of 21 years he commenced life as a renter. He purchased 160 acres of land on Section two in Creek township, and in 1861 bought his late home, which he has improved to a high state of cultivation and ornamentation.

He was married to Miss Ann HARTSOCK in 1845, three daughters being born to them—Louise J. (Mrs. M. R. COLWELL), Anna Elizabeth (Mrs. Jacob ZEIGLER) and Miss Laura Lucinda, all of DeWitt county; all of them survive him. Besides their own family they reared three boys.

By frugality, honesty and perseverance, Mr. and Mrs. Simpson added to their possessions until they owned several hundred acres of the best land in Central Illinois, earning honorable retirement, the care of these large and fertile acres being delegated to other hands.

Mr. Simpson was educated in a school that made the early pioneers the peer of any people. They were able to contend successfully with the business problems that surrounded them. Mr. Simpson was successful not only in a financial but also in a social way, hospitality being one of the especially developed graces of the early settlers. He was a self-made man. His quiet, pleasant manner of asserting his differences attracting to him those who otherwise might have been antagonized. His death is a great loss to this community. His brother, S. M. SIMPSON, of Kansas, was at his bedside. The public sympathize with the bereaved family.

Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock the road leading to the beautiful home of the late Henry Simpson, one mile southeast of Clinton, was thronged with citizens on their way to attend the funeral of their departed friend. The house was filled with sorrowing relatives and neighbors, gathered as one great family, for Henry Simpson was a father, a wise counselor and a devoted friend to mankind.

About four hundred people passed by the bier and took a farewell look at the face that was familiar to them in life. At the head of the casket was a profusion of flowers intertwined with smilax, presented by the Universalist parish of Clinton; a bunch of white carnations from the W. R. C. of Frank Lowry Post rested on the casket, and near these were a bouquet of calla lilies and roses, their pure red and white petals lying in the shadow of a sheaf of wheat—emblems of youth and age—mementoes from the family. Beneath the casket was a wreath of flowers.

After the relatives had entered the room where the body lay, a quartet chanted "Beloved, 'Tis Well," and the church choir sang "Nearer, My God to Thee." Rev. James Alvin Clark, the pastor, read a selection from the Scriptures, closing with an earnest prayer. "Abide With Me" was sung with a tenderness of voice that touched every heart.

Rev. John S. COOK, an intimate friend of the deceased, spoke of the character of the father whose life had been prolonged over seventy-four years, and to whom death came as a messenger from God to lead His son home to everlasting life and peace. He also spoke of the abiding faith that animated the deceased through his long sickness and which made him look calmly into the face of death and trust His Father's love. The affecting scene which occurred when Father Simpson united with the Universalist church was tenderly recalled and his labors for the church he loved fittingly acknowledged. Brother Simpson was loving in his nature—his soul thirsted for love as the earth thirsts for the evening dew; gentle as a woman, the cry of distress found a response in his heart.

The funeral cortege passed through the city to Woodlawn cemetery. At the tomb a few impressive words were spoken, the choir sang "Thy Will Be Done," and all left the city of the dead, where mosses drape the trees, and rustling leaves add funereal sadness to the scene.

If the voice of eulogy could be heard by the dead, what joy would the soul feel to know that we speak of virtues only to perpetuate his memory; if the eyes that are closed in death's sleep could see the grave strewn with beautiful, fragrant flowers, behold friends gathered around the tomb, unable to repress tears that flow from the heart's fountain, would not the soul voice murmur, "God, Father, behold how my people love me!"

Words feebly tell the heartfelt sympathy and grief. Ours is the heritage of his wisdom, the light of his example, the memory of his virtues. Death may sever the chord in the tide of song, yet memory will keep sacred the loving form of the minstrel. Mr. and Mrs. Simpson walked life's path, sharing each other's joys and dividing each other's sorrows. The wife, who survives her husband, is a woman who combines the virtues of wife, mother and sister—she is devoted, affectionate and constant. In the evening of her life, as the golden rays gild the hilltops, may the peace that passeth all understanding abide with her and her children.

Ida (DeGRAFT) SIMPSON 

Date Unknown
Paper Unknown

(Obituary Extract)

Farmer City Hotel Owner Dies Monday.

Name: Mrs. Ida WOODWARD SIMPSON
Age: 74
Occupation: Owner of the Commercial Hotel in Farmer City
Born: June 22, 1882 at Mansfield
Died: Mennonite Hospital, Bloomington
Parents: William and Kathryn DEGRAFT
Married: Bert WOODWARD in 1907; Bert died September 19, 1933; Later married to James SIMPSON in 1942 at St. Charles, Mo.
Survivors: Her husband, a sister of Oak Park; and three grandchildren

Submitted by Debbie Champion

John SIMPSON 

November 24, 1922
Decatur Review

John SIMPSON died at 1 o'clock Friday morning at the home of his son, Charles A. SIMPSON, 1445 North Water street, with whom he had made his home since Sept. 10, 1921. He had been ill for the last three months.

Mr. Simpson was born Sept. 6, 1846, in DeWitt county. In 1870 he was married to Arminda SMALLWOOD. Two children were born to this union. One daughter died at the age of two years. He leaves one son, Charles A. Simpson. His wife died July 19, 1919. He formerly engaged in farming but had been retired for a number of years before his death. He was a member of the K. P. lodge.

The body will be taken to Clinton for burial. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 1 o'clock at the Pullen chapel in Clinton. Rev. Al Furman will officiate. Burial will be in the Rose cemetery east of Clinton.

Note: Another small article about his funeral added that he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Asher SIMPSON and that he was survived by one sister (no name given), residing in Kansas.

Samuel Merrick SIMPSON 

July 10, 1928
Clinton Daily Journal and Public

S. M. Simpson, Former Local Resident, Dies.

Samuel M. SIMPSON, 93, who many years ago made Clinton his home, passed away Sunday night at the home of his son, Frank SIMPSON, in Blair, Neb., of debilities of old age. Word of his death was received by relatives here Monday.

Deceased was born in Pennsylvania state, May 23, 1835, being 93 years old at the time of his death. He came to Illinois in 1855 settling in DeWitt county, making this his home until 35 years ago when he went west. He was twice married, both wives having preceded him in death.

Surviving him are four children, a daughter and three sons, as follows: Mrs. Mary DYCE of Kansas; Frank Simpson, Blair, Neb.; Fred SIMPSON, a Methodist minister in Iowa and Charles SIMPSON of Kansas. He also leaves two nieces, Mrs. Jacob ZEIGLER and Miss Lou SIMPSON and three nephews, William, Charles and Ralph HARTSOCK, all of Clinton.

The body will be brought to Clinton Tuesday noon at 12:15 o'clock and taken to Pullen's chapel, where it will remain until the hour of the funeral, which will be 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon at the Universalist church. Rev. Carl A. POLSON will officiate. Interment will be in Woodlawn cemetery.

Note: Samuel Merrick Simpson died at age 92, not 93; he was born May 24, 1836, not May 23, 1835; he was born in Ohio, not Pennsylvania; and his daughter's last name was DEIST, not Dyce. This is a good example of why you shouldn't believe everything you read in an obituary.

V. A. SIMPSON 

May 25, 1900
Clinton Register

V. A. SIMPSON died Wednesday at his home in Waynesville, aged 54. He had lived at Waynesville all his life and was one of its best known citizens. He had held township offices several terms and was elected collector last spring.

Belle (DeBOLT) SLICK 

February 16, 1900
Clinton Register

Mrs. Belle SLICK, wife of George SLICK, died yesterday morning at her home near Parnell, aged about 25. She formerly lived in Clinton and was married last fall. She had been sick several weeks with typhoid fever. She was a sister of Miss Ida DeBOLT, who makes her home in Clinton.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
SLICK, GEORGE H.    DEBOLT, BELLE    12/16/1899     CHAMPAIGN

Hannah (MONNETT) SLICK 

February 9, 1883
Clinton Public

A Curious Case of Life and Death.

The Farmer City correspondent of the Bloomington Pantagraph writes that paper that on Thursday the people of Farmer City were somewhat exercised over the death of Mrs. T. H. SLICK, who died very suddenly on Wednesday, at Mr. James MILLER’s, about four miles southwest of Farmer City. Mrs. Slick arose from the dinner table Wednesday, and dropped to the floor apparently dead, with what was supposed to be heart disease. Preparations were made for her funeral. She was laid out and placed in a coffin, and on Thursday morning it was discovered that her body was warm, color had returned to her cheeks, and her body had become limber. Her friends began undoing the burial preparations and endeavored to restore her again to life, but all was to no avail. After remaining for a time in this apparent trance state the flush again left her cheeks, and she again became cold, and last evening all signs of life had left her. Her friends, believing that she is now dead, will bury her today, the funeral services taking place at the M. E. Church in Farmer City at 11 o’clock. Mr. SLICK, her husband, is a well-to-do farmer and stock raiser, who moved from near Champaign about three years ago.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
SLICK, THOMAS H.    MONNETT, HANNAH G.    11/13/1861     DE WITT

Elizabeth (ACTON) PEDDICORD SLOAT 

May 10, 1889
Clinton Register

Mrs. Elizabeth SLOAT, wife of Philip SLOAT, died Monday, aged 63 years, 5 months and 11 days. Funeral services were held at the residence in the southwest part of the city Thursday morning at 10 o'clock. The burial was at Woodlawn cemetery.

Note: Her first husband was Caleb Peddicord. Her second husband was Philip A. Sloat.

Jane (LANE) PEDDICORD SLOAT 

January 22, 1917
Clinton Daily Public

MRS. JANE SLOAT DIED LAST NIGHT.
Was Born in DeWitt County Over Eighty Years Ago—
Funeral Services Tuesday.

Mrs. Jane SLOAT, aged 80 years, passed away at her home at 318 West White street at 8 o'clock Sunday night. Mrs. Sloat had long suffered with heart trouble, and recently was taken down with grip, and in her weakened condition could not ward off death.

Mrs. Sloat was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William LANE and was born in Short Point, DeWitt county, and lived here all her life. She was the wife of the late Phillip SLOAT and is survived by a daughter, Miss Rita Sloat, and a son, Harry Sloat, both of Clinton.

Funeral services will be held from the late home, 318 West White street Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock, Rev. Ralph V. Callaway officiating. Interment in Woodlawn cemetery.

Note: Her children’s names were Henrietta Peddicord and Jesse Harrison Peddicord. Phillip Sloat was her second husband and not the father of her children. Her first husband, William Peddicord, was the brother of Caleb Peddicord, listed above as the first husband of Elizabeth Sloat.

Philip A. SLOAT 

December 9, 1898
Clinton Register

MUSTERED OUT OF SERVICE.
Philip A. Sloat, One of Clinton's Oldest Citizens, Passed From Life to Death at an Advanced Age.

Monday morning, Philip A. SLOAT died at his home in the southwest part of this city, of diabetes, aged 72 years. His wife survives him, also three of his four children. He had lived in Clinton over forty years and followed his trade of plastering until age unfitted him for the work. The following account of his life was prepared by himself:

"Philip A. Sloat was born August 13th, 1826, in Hamilton county, Ohio. When at the age of 1 year father’s family moved to Cincinnati, where I remained until the fall of 1845, when I located in Portsmouth, Scioto county, Ohio. In May, 1846, at the breaking out of the Mexican war, I enlisted at the first call for volunteers in company D; was assigned to 1st regiment Ohio volunteers; was with the regiment at all times and participated in the storming of Monterey on Sept. 21 and 23, 1846; was honorably discharged in July 1847 with rank of orderly sergeant at New Orleans. Returned to Portsmouth, Ohio, and resumed work at my trade of plastering. In the spring of 1849 was married to Nancy Jane MORRISON; in spring of 1851 was struck with California gold fever and left Portsmouth in April 1851, by steamboat to St. Joseph, Mo., thence by horseback, riding and walking across the plains; arrived in California late in August 1851 and put in three years with varying fortune. Returned to Portsmouth in March 1855; resumed my business in May 1855; then started on travels again for Illinois; arrived in Clinton about the 10th of June and have been here all the time since. My wife, Nancy Jane SLOAT, died in February 1861, leaving four children, namely: Edwin A.; Cordelia, wife of Joseph E. JOHNSON of Texas township; Sarah M., wife of Ralph ROCKWOOD of Fairbury, Ill.; and Charles A. SLOAT, of Clinton. Edwin A. was killed at Delavan, Ill., by being thrown from an overturned wagon Oct. 5, 1866. In July, about thirty-five years ago, I was married to Elizabeth PEDICORD, who died May 6, 1889. May 15, 1890, I was married to Jane PEDICORD."

Note: Pedicord should be Peddicord. Elizabeth and Jane were sisters-in-law.

Mrs. Elizabeth SMALLWOOD 

June 29, 1883
Clinton Public

Mrs. Betsy SMALLWOOD, wife of P. A. SMALLWOOD, died at Cerro Gordo, Ills., on Monday last. The deceased was buried in the Lane cemetery on Wednesday.

--------------------

June 29, 1883
Clinton Public

Mrs. Elizabeth SMALLWOOD, aged 49 years, whose remains were brought from Cerro Gordo, and interred at Lane on the 27th inst., was a native of Creek township, well and widely known by the noble qualities of heart she possessed. In subserving the younger generation by the tried service that burdened the early settlers of our county, she was denied an education that would have developed a mind that was truly remarkable. The pathway of her noble humanitarian life, though shaded by the clouds of sorrow, was lined with flowers of her good deeds. She passed away in the autumn before the harvest of her angel acts to humanity had been garnered. She was the mother of seven children whom she devotedly loved and to whom, as the result of a kind mother’s affection, she could, with the Cornelian mother of old, point and call the jewels of her life. She was in social life witty, vivacious, with a nature so tender and affectionate it could hold no malice and know no enemy. No circle of pleasure could hold her when sickness summoned, but the heaven of her love for humanity was beside the bedside of affliction and sorrow. She always had a smile for the hopeful that was like a beam through a cloud—a throb for every groan.

“An angel standing by the sick one’s pillow,
   Of soft tone and soundless tread,
When hearts were drooping, like the willow,
   She stood between the living and the dead.”

She reasoned, and loved to hear discourse. She had her views. In the broad mercy of her own heart she could not attribute the destruction of any of the world to the Unseen. In the deliberation of many months she faced the grim monster with a beam of welcome, rather than a trace of terror. Let her sorrowing family, let her countless friends who showed forth their affection and gratitude in a flood of sorrow at her grave, hope there is a shore to her future, and, that after having crossed the dark and icy waters, she is crowned, and rests and sings beneath its beautiful trees.

Note from Paul Parkhurst: Mrs. Smallwood died June 24th and had eight children, not seven.

George D. SMALLWOOD 

April 16, 1886
Clinton Public

Death of a Veteran of the Black Hawk War.

George D. SMALLWOOD, one of the early settlers of DeWitt County, died at his home near this city yesterday morning, aged seventy-six years. For several months Mr. SMALLWOOD had been an invalid and confined to his home.

George D. SMALLWOOD was among the pioneer settlers of this county. He was born in Ross County, Ohio, on the 31st of March, 1810. His parents were natives of Virginia, and their ancestors were of Irish extraction. The SMALLWOOD family came to Illinois in 1825 and settled near Decatur. There were fifteen children in the family, George D. being the second oldest. In 1830 George D. Smallwood settled on Salt Creek, in this county, and built a cabin, near which, four years later, his father built a mill which has since been known as SMALLWOOD's mill. George D. had a fair common school education, and studied civil engineering, which business he gave considerable attention to in the early days. In 1839 he was nominated by the Whigs as a candidate for county surveyor, but was defeated by Alexander A. BARNETT. This was the only time he was ever before any convention as a candidate for office. During the winter of 1831-32 the Black Hawk Was broke out, and on the 16th of April Governor REYNOLDS issued a call for troops. Among the number who responded from this county was George D. SMALLWOOD. Among his comrades in the same company were Walter BOWLES, George COPPENBARGER, Asher SIMPSON, Elisha BUTLER, John HENDERSON, James ENNIS, John CLIFTON, John WILLIAMS, C. COOPER, Samuel TROXEL, Thomas DAVENPORT, William ADAMS, William HOOPER, Joseph CLIFTON, and J. G. WRIGHT. They served on the Rock River, and were in Major STILLMAN's command. The DeWitt County men served the full term for which they were enlisted and were then mustered out.

In March, 1839, Mr. SMALLWOOD was married to Mary Ann BROWN, daughter of Henry BROWN, who was one of the early settlers of Texas Township. By this union there was one child, who died in infancy. His wife died in 1867, since which time he has made his home with relatives. For about fifteen years he was engaged in milling, but the greater part of his life was spent upon a farm. His first Presidential vote was cast for Andrew JACKSON, but when the Republican party was organized in 1856, he identified himself with it and remained faithful to its principles to the end of his life.

George D. Smallwood was a man of excellent character, and during his long life in this county he had the confidence and esteem of all who knew him. He was liberal in his giving to relatives and others. Such a life as his sheds a blessing on those with whom he was intimately associated.

Submitted by Bob Halsey

Gideon P. SMALLWOOD 

March 26, 1886
Clinton Public

Gideon P. SMALLWOOD died at his home in Creek township, on last Wednesday, in the 53d year of his age. He was born near Decatur on the 16th of May, 1833, and came to this county more than thirty years ago and settled in Creek township. He was the youngest member of the Smallwood Family. He was a farmer and stock raiser and has been successful in his calling. Mr. Smallwood was a kind father and husband and a generous neighbor, who was ever ready to lend a helping hand.

Olivia (PARKER) SMALLWOOD 

December 6, 1901
Clinton Register

Olivia PARKER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. W. PARKER, was born June 4, 1875 in Texas township; was married Nov. 18, 1896, to L. E. SMALLWOOD, of Creek township, where they had since lived. About two weeks ago she fell and was so severely injured that she died about a week later, aged 26 years. The husband and two children survive her; also her parents, four sisters and one brother. They are Mrs. Ella EBLE, Clarion, Iowa; Mrs. Jessie CASLER, Excelsior, Minn.; Mrs. Annie SARGENT, San Jose, Cal.; Miss Alice, who lives with her parents, and A. H. PARKER, of Texas township.

Ruth SMALLWOOD 

November 15, 1901
Clinton Register

JOY AND GRIEF.

Tuesday morning about 7 o'clock the home of R. P. SMALLWOOD, of Creek township, was the scene of joy over the birth of a girl baby. In less than two hours later their home was turned into mourning, as their little daughter, Ruth, died of scarlet fever, being sick but a few days. The mother was completely prostrated by the great shock and for some time remained in a critical condition. The day was one to never be forgotten by the family and all those present. The interment took place at the Rose cemetery Wednesday afternoon. Mrs. Smallwood has improved and is thought will recover.

SMITH (infant) 

April 3, 1891
Clinton Public

After thirteen weeks of sickness, Mr. James SMITH lost his little son, who died of spinal disease on last Sunday. The child was three months old.

Mrs. A. L. SMITH 

January 13, 1899
Clinton Public

Death of Mrs. Smith at Lincoln.

Mrs. Hattie POLLOCK received word from A. L. SMITH at Lincoln last Wednesday that his wife had died and that the funeral would be held Thursday at 10 a.m. She was the aunt of Mrs. Wm. ARMSTRONG, J. KOONS, S. L. BROOKS, Hattie POLLOCK, and Mr. J. T. SPRAGUE, of this city. She is the last of a family of 12 children. She was about 84 years old.

Augustus SMITH 

December 15, 1882
Clinton Public

Augustus SMITH, of Texas township, died at his home on Tuesday [Dec. 12], after only a few days sickness. His disease is reported as being typhoid fever, of which he was taken down last Thursday. He leaves a blind wife and some four or five children. Smith was the owner of ten acres of land. He bought thirty additional acres, and mortgaged the whole to secure the payments on his new purchase. His family of children, with their blind mother, are left in straitened circumstances.

Mrs. Barney SMITH 

January 27, 1882
Clinton Public

Mrs. Barney SMITH, an old-time resident of Clinton, died at her home in Wichita, Kansas, on the 15th of January, aged sixty-two years. Mrs. Smith lived in Clinton till the close of the war, when they moved to Kansas. The family will be well-remembered by the old citizens of ante-war days. Her oldest daughter is the wife of Mr. BOGARDUS, principal of the Springfield commercial college. When living here, the Smith family was prominently connected with the M. E. Church. Barney SMITH brought Matt CLINE to this city from Chicago before the war.

Charles R. SMITH 

December 26, 1890
Clinton Public

Death of Charles R. Smith.

Two years ago Charles R. SMITH, of Barnett township, was afflicted with a cancer, but after doctoring for it for a time he thought he was cured. Cancer like consumption is one of those diseases for which there seems to be no cure after once it has taken root in the system, and this was Mr. Smith’s experience. Every remedy was tried without affording relief, and finally he decided on trying what effect the waters of Eureka Springs would have in his case. A few weeks ago he went [with] his wife to the Springs, but almost from the day he reached there he began to fail rapidly. Death came to his relief last Friday, and his body was brought back to his old home and on Tuesday was buried in the Waynesville cemetery. He was the father of eleven children, eight of whom are still living—three daughters and five sons— all of whom attended the funeral.

Mr. Smith would have been sixty-four years old had he lived till next February. He was born in Indiana, and in his younger days knew something of the hardships of life. In 1853, he came to this county without a dollar and began life as best he could. Land was cheap in those days and he got a few acres. To this he added year after year till he owned nearly half a section of as good land as there is in Barnett township. It took patience and industry to raise a large family and supply their wants, and Mr. Smith was equal to the task. He had a fine residence and one hundred and seventy acres for his home, and everything about him was the best. He had another farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which he deeded to his boys a short time before his death. The home farm is worth at least $70 an acre and is well stocked, and Mr. Smith did not owe a dollar in the world. Mrs. Smith and the younger son will continue to live on the home farm. James SMITH, the oldest son, is living in Clarion, Iowa, and F. M. SMITH, the next oldest, lives in Sioux City, Iowa, and is a commercial traveler for a wholesale grocery. The other members of the family live in this county and near here. Mr. Smith had two brothers and one sister living in Indiana, who came to attend the funeral. One of the brothers and Mr. Smith were twins, and one could hardly tell one from the other to see them apart.

--------------------

December 26, 1890
Clinton Public

Died, at Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Friday morning, Dec. 19th, Charles R. SMITH. He was brought back to his old home for interment, and the sad party arrived with the remains on the night train last Saturday. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. ARTZ on Tuesday, and his remains were laid to rest in the church yard at Waynesville, where a host of relatives and friends gathered to pay the last sad tribute of respect to one who was loved and respected by all who knew him.

Thus has passed away another of the pioneer settlers of this part of the country. Uncle Charley SMITH came to Illinois when it was one unbroken prairie, and made a success in his occupation as a farmer. He has seen the growth of this country from its wild state and blossoming into one of the finest in the world. Mr. Smith was a devoted Christian, an example of industry, honesty and integrity. He leaves a wife and eight children who are bereft of a kind father and devoted husband, who have the sympathy of their many friends in their sad loss.

Christeny (SHINKLE) SMITH 

October 23, 1896
Clinton Public

Christeny SHINKLE was born in Brown county, Ohio, May 21st, 1817. She came with her parents to Sangamon county, Illinois, in the fall of 1826 and settled near Springfield. She was married to Jeremiah C. SMITH at Mechanicsburg, Ill., January 14, 1841. In the spring of 1847 they moved to Marion, the present town of DeWitt. On April 23, 1849, her husband died, leaving her with two children—Z. T. SMITH of Dawson and Mrs. A. HARROLD of DeWitt. At the age of 12 years she was converted at the Mechanicsburg camp ground and united with the M. E. church, of which she has been a consistent and devoted member for 67 years. Sister Smith was a sufferer with her disease for about eighteen months, and for about nine weeks has been confined to her bed. Although her sufferings were such that she longed for rest, yet she bore them with Christian resignation. She died October 15, 1896, being 79 years, 4 months and 24 days old. Two children and one sister, Mrs. PROCOFF, of Spaulding, Ill., survive her. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. C. N. CAIN, of Edinburg, at the M. E. church in DeWitt, and the remains were interred in DeWitt cemetery. She was universally esteemed and loved as a Christian by all who knew her.

Earl Francis SMITH 

January 24, 1906
Decatur Review

Earl Francis SMITH died Monday evening of spinal meningitis. He was the son of William SMITH, an Illinois Central engineer. He was 13 years old. His illness was of only two weeks' duration.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Edward D. SMITH 

(See news article)

Eleanor (TAYLOR) SMITH 

March 25, 1904
Clinton Register

ALMOST EIGHTY YEARS OLD.
A Pioneer Lady of DeWitt County Died While Away From Home—
Funeral Held Today.

March 15, Mrs. Eleanor SMITH went to Casner, Ill., with her daughter, Mrs. T. N. BYERLY to attend the funeral of the last survivor of her brothers, Robert TAYLOR. While there she was taken sick with pneumonia, and died March 23, her recovery being thought hopeless from the first. Remains were brought to Clinton yesterday afternoon and taken to her late home on South East street where the funeral services were held today at 2:30 o'clock, conducted by Rev. T. A. CANADY. Interment was in Woodlawn.

Eleanor TAYLOR was the daughter of John and Mary TAYLOR and was born in Rushville, O., April 21, 1824, and lived 80 years, less 28 bays. She was married to William W. SMITH in Mt. Blanchard, O., March 7, 1845; they came to Illinois in 1856, and had lived in or near Clinton ever since, the last 17 years being spent in this city. Previous to that she lived on a farm in Wilson township, where her husband died March 27, 1868, and since then she had lived in widowhood. To them nine children were born, five daughters and four sons. Wesley Addison died in infancy, and Mrs. Mary LITSENBERGER died four years ago. Those living are Mrs. Mary Elizabeth BYERLY, Mrs. Flora LITSENBERGER, Miss Fidelia and Miss Anna SMITH, all of this city; Rev. William Albert SMITH, of Champaign; Robert Taylor SMITH, of this city, and Frank SMITH of Clinton, Ia. One half-brother and two half-sisters, one of them, Mrs. Rebecca BELL, of DeWitt, Ill., also survive her. She and her brothers were greatly attached to each other in life, and in death were not long divided. One brother, Smith TAYLOR, died four years ago. She had been a Christian and a member of the Methodist church since girlhood.

Submitted by Bob Halsey

India (POLLARD) SMITH 

1943
Paper Unknown

(Obituary Extract)

Name: India POLLARD SMITH
Born: February 11, 1860, Owensville, Gibson Co., IN
Died: December 19, 1943, Gary Methodist Hospital, Gary, IN
Parents: Benjamin W. POLLARD and Lavina SUMNERS
Married: Daniel Wylie SMITH, August 20, 1879, DeWitt Co., IL (Daniel passed away in 1919.)
Survivors: Five daughters, Florence (Amos) PARKS of Decatur, IL, Welzie SMITH of Hastings, NE, Emma Grace (Alvin E.) SHANK of Turon, KS, Lorene (Harry) POWERS of Midland City, L. Marie (Harold) REED of Gary, IN; two sons, Herbert D. SMITH of Decatur, IL, and Hubert SMITH of Crown Point, IN. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers Harvey (Lillian) POLLARD of Hallsville, IL and Willard H. (Melvina) POLLARD of Clinton, IL and two sisters Cassie Mae (Walter W.) HOUGH of Aurora, NE., and Lou Ella (John F.) BARTLEY of Barnett, IL.
Funeral: 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 22, 1943 at the Reeser Funeral Home in Clinton, with Rev. H. B. WHEATON of the Christian Church officiating.
Burial: Evergreen Cemetery at Waynesville, IL.

Submitted by Lois Fullington

James SMITH 

December 26, 1890
Clinton Public

James SMITH died the first of this month and was laid to rest in the Texas necropolis. Mr. Smith was confined to his bed for fourteen months prior to his death and bore his aches and pains in a Christ-like manner.

John SMITH 

June 19, 1908
Clinton Register

John SMITH, formerly a resident of Clinton, where he was a member of Father Dooling's household, died last Friday at Henry, Illinois, aged 70 years. Funeral services were held at Henry where interment took place. Deceased left no relatives in the country.

John SMITH 

March 18, 1914
Decatur Review

WAS A SOLDIER IN CRIMEAN WARS.
John Smith, Born in Paris, Dies in Clinton.

Clinton, March 18.—John SMITH died at his home southwest of the city Tuesday morning about 5:30 following an illness of several weeks from heart trouble and then complications.

He was born in Paris, France, Nov. 28, 1830 and served as a soldier for several years in Crimean wars. He came to this country when a young man and located near LaSalle, Ill., where he worked on the construction gang on the Illinois Central for many years. He came to this county in 1871 and lived on the Lewis CAMPBELL farm west of the city until 1901 and since that time has resided where the death occurred.

Mr. Smith was united in marriage about forty years ago to Christina KLAS, who preceded him in death about three years. The following children survive; Mrs. J. J. ROGERS, New York; John W., electrician for the gas and electric company; Alice at home and Oral and Earl of this city.

The funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon in the Christian church at 2:30. Rev. Ralph V. Calloway officiating.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

John W. SMITH 

June 25, 1930
Decatur Evening Herald

CLINTON—John W. SMITH, known as "Frenchie" to his friends in Clinton, died Sunday in his home in El Paso following an illness of many months with complications. The body was brought to Clinton Tuesday where funeral services were held in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph BORDENKECKER. Burial was made in Woodlawn cemetery. He was 50 years old and leaves his wife and one son, Raymond. Mr. Smith was head electrician at the light plant here for many years.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Julia Belle SMITH 

(See GRANT)

Mable (HALL) McMILLAN SMITH 

1965
Paper Unknown

(Obituary Extract)

MABLE SMITH KILLED IN AUTO CRASH.

Name: Mable (HALL) McMILLAN-SMITH
Age: 81
Born: December 16, 1883, Barnett township, DeWitt Co., IL
Parents: Richard & Sarah E. (Ellington) HALL
Spouse: (1) Frank McMILLAN, m. 1899, Lincoln, IL. (2) Harry E. SMITH, m. December 16, 1921, Wheaton, IL.
Memberships/Affiliations: She was a member of the Christian church, White Shrine order of the Eastern Star, and past grand chief of the Pythian Sisters of the State of Illinois. She was also a member of the Blue Rose Club.
Died: June 12, 1965, 2 p.m., at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital
Funeral: First Christian Church, Rev. Winston Zastrow officiating; arrangements by Herington-Calvert Funeral Home.
Burial: Woodlawn Cemetery.
Survivors: Daughter, Mrs. Ethel YOUNG, Clinton, IL; brother, Harry HALL of Illinois City; two grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. Both husbands preceded her in death.

Submitted by Helen Pate Ross

Mrs. Martha A. SMITH 

September 29, 1882
Clinton Public

Mrs. Martha A. SMITH, wife of the late Thomps. S. SMITH, died at her home in this city last Monday morning, after a long and painful illness. Mrs. Smith had been a resident of this county for over thirty-five years, and at one time was one of the leading women of the M. E. Church. Her husband died about three years ago, since which time she had failed in health. The funeral services were held on Wednesday morning, and were attended by a large number of her old time friends.

Pheba (CULLEY) SMITH 

July 28, 1899
Clinton Public

Death of Mrs. A. L. Smith.

Mrs. A. L. SMITH died last Monday at 4:45 at the home of her cousin, Mrs. A. POLLOCK on West Main street. Pheba Jane CULLEY was born September 1840, in Ohio. She came to Illinois with her parents when quite small, and was a resident of DeWitt county fifty years. She was married to A. SWEARINGEN, of Long Point, who belonged to 107th regiment of Illinois, and who died at Murphesburgh, Tenn., during the war. On April 24th 1867, she was married to A. L. SMITH who survives her. She has two children living, John H. SWEARINGEN, of Wichita, Kansas, and Mrs. F. E. SALTMARCH of Miller, South Dakota.

Philena (WELCH) SMITH 

December 3, 1880
Clinton Public

Died, November 20th, 1880, at the residence of her son, near Clinton, Ill., Mrs. Philena SMITH. She was born in Chenango, New York, January 18th, 1790. In 1804, her father, Aaron WELCH, moved with his family from New York to what is now Delaware, Ohio, then nothing but a vast wilderness and that full of Indians, there being only five white families in that section of the country. In the year 1815 she was married to Josiah M. SMITH, of Berkshire county, Mass. She was the mother of two children, Hiram P. SMITH, of this place, and Mrs. H. I. STURDEVAN, of Selma, Ala., who survive her. Her husband died in 1840. Since that time she has made her home with her children, being a loving and affectionate mother. She became a member of the Presbyterian Church at an early age and became a zealous worker in the Church. She had lived in this county about twenty-five years.

R. P. SMITH 

February 4, 1859
Clinton Public

R. P. SMITH, an old and respected citizen of this place. He died at his residence on Thursday last. A good man has gone to his reward.

Richard S. SMITH 

January 8, 1886
Clinton Public

Death of Richard S. Smith.

On Tuesday last the Kellog Bros. received a dispatch from Woodstock, Ohio, announcing the death of Richard S. SMITH that morning. On Wednesday morning the body arrived here, accompanied by Mr. S. G. SMITH, a brother of the deceased, and Mr. George STANDISH, a son of Mr. Smith's second wife. Notwithstanding the brevity of the funeral notice a large number of Mr. Smith's old friends met the body at the Illinois Central depot and escorted it to Woodlawn Cemetery, where he was buried in the family lot, alongside his first wife.

Mr. Smith was stricken down with disease last July, and two months later he lost his reason. From then till his death he was insane. After his death the attending physicians held a post-mortem examination and the result of their investigation was that Mr. Smith had been suffering from chronic congestion of the brain for between four and five years, and all that was necessary in his case to develop insanity was some mental or physical strain. During the early part of last year he had been hard at work fixing up his new home in Ohio, and in July he broke down.

For a long number of years Mr. Smith owned the fine farm now owned by Mr. C. C. Kellogg. Everybody knew "Uncle Dickey," for he was a genial soul. In his business relations he was straight-forward and honorable. After the death of his first wife he sold his share of the farm to his brother-in-law, Mr. C. C. Kellogg, and nearly four years ago he moved to Woodstock, Ohio, where he afterward married his second wife, Mrs. Standish.

At the time of his death he was sixty-six years of age. He left an estate worth about $12,000, all of which goes to his second wife, as Mr. Smith had no children.

Mrs. Richard S. SMITH 

March 2, 1883
Clinton Public

After weary months of pain and suffering Mrs. Helen M. SMITH, wife of Richard S. SMITH, died at noon on Tuesday [February 27th]. Her disease was dropsy. Twenty-five years ago, when Mr. and Mrs. Smith were yet in the hey-day of their youth, they came from Woodstock, Ohio, and settled near this city. Both of them were industrious and ambitious for a home of their own, and for years they have owned one of the nicest farms in the county, within one mile of the business part of the city. No expense or labor was spared to beautify their home surroundings. Mrs. Smith took pride in the management of her dairy and the products always commanded the highest price. When sorrow or sickness visited the homes of her neighbors Mrs. Smith was a ministering angel. Her age was sixty years, three months and ten days. The funeral services, conducted by Rev. T. I. COULTAS, were held yesterday afternoon, when the body was consigned to the tomb in Woodlawn Cemetery.

S. H. SMITH 

April 12, 1900
Funeral Card

S. H. SMITH died at Jacksonville, IL, on Thursday, April 12, 1900, aged 77 years, 4 months, 19 days. Funeral: M.E. Church, April 14th. Burial: Camp Ground Cemetery.

Susie (KEYS) SMITH 

October 6, 1899
Clinton Register

DEATH OF MRS. GEO. SMITH.

Mrs. Susie SMITH, wife of Geo. W. SMITH, died Sunday morning at her home in Waynesville, aged 36 years. She had been in failing health about two years, and since giving birth to a child six months ago had grown worse. Her maiden name was Susie KEYS, being a sister of J. H. KEYS, near Midland City. She was married to G. W. Smith about fifteen years ago. To them four children were born, the eldest being 13 years old. They with the husband and mother of the deceased mourn the death of their best friend. She submitted to an operation two weeks before her death.

Funeral services were held Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Lacey. Interment was in the Cumberland cemetery, near Waynesville.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Vesta SMITH 

December 26, 1890
Clinton Public

Our community was very much startled on Thursday morning, Dec. 18th, to hear of Miss Vesta SMITH’s death. She had a severe attack of diphtheria, but paralysis of the heart was the immediate cause of her death. She was born in Lincoln and came into this neighborhood with her parents when quite small. She was in her sixteenth year. Burial was at Lincoln Friday.

Welby A. SMITH 

July 27, 1906
Paper Unknown

DEATH OF A BLIND BOY.

Welby A. SMITH, son of James and Ara SMITH, was born Oct. 19, 1895 and died July 23, 1906, aged 10 years, 9 months and 23 days. When about six years old he became blind, but was patient in his affliction, always being cheerful. He was bright and intelligent and it was a pleasure to talk to him. He was always anxious to work: He and his little brother would take their little wagon and sell on the streets in Clinton things that they had raised in the garden, often selling more than one dollar's worth in a day. He was in the constant care of his mother, and it was hard for her to give him up. He would study how to be good. Once he said to this writer that one had to suffer much to be good, and his desire was to be good, kind and loving. Funeral services were held in the home in Clinton, conducted by Rev. T. H. MILLER, of Lane. Burial was in Rose Cemetery near Lane.

Submitted by Unknown

James Thornton SNELL, Sr. 

April 20, 1896
Daily Republican
Decatur, Illinois

BANKER THORNTON SNELL DEAD.
A Prominent Business Man of Clinton and DeWitt County Expires Suddenly at His Home in Bloomington.

Saturday evening at about six o'clock James Thornton SNELL died suddenly of heart disease at his home in Bloomington, the result of a little exertion at his home in lifting a heavy article. He became faint after the exertion, but thought nothing of it, treating the matter so lightly that his wife went out to call on a neighbor, and while she was gone the husband expired. His son, Thornton [James Thornton SNELL, Jr.], was with him a moment before he died. The banker was one of the principal business men of Clinton for many years, and at the time of his death, though he made his home in Bloomington, he was the president of the Clinton bank.

James Thornton Snell was born in Tazewell county, near Pekin, March 27, 1841, consequently he was in his 56th year. His father, Thomas SNELL, soon after the birth of Thornton, removed with his family to Clinton, DeWitt county, and there the family made their home until twelve years ago. Shortly before the war, the older Snell founded the DeWitt county National bank and placed his son behind the counters. Snell's bank, as it was generally termed, is known all over central Illinois, and did a very extensive business. Thornton grew up to manhood in Clinton and became one of the leading citizens. At the call of President Lincoln for troops in 1864, he enlisted at Clinton in the 145th Illinois volunteer infantry, and served with credit until the close of the war. He was appointed quartermaster of his regiment and occupied that office until mustered out.

Twenty-seven years ago in Clinton, the anniversary being but recently celebrated, he was united in marriage to his sorrowing wife, Miss Hannah A. CONKLING [CONKLIN]. Their married life could not have been happier, and since they plighted their troth a quarter of a century ago nothing has occurred to mar their life's enjoyment until the shadow of death that fell so blackly Saturday. Three children came to bless the union, Lena, the oldest child and only daughter, and two sons, Thornton, Jr., a youth of 18, and Harry, the latter a bright lad of 12. Lena is now the wife of Will V. DINSMORE, and resides at San Jose, Cal. She was married four years ago. Besides the wife and three children, the father and one brother survive. The latter, Richard, resides in Kansas City. The older Snell's wife, mother of Thornton, Sr., has been dead about nineteen years. The funeral will be held probably on Thursday.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
SNELL, JAMES T.    CONKLIN, HANNAH    02/04/1869     DE WITT

Col. Thomas SNELL 

June 21, 1907
Clinton Register

COL. THOMAS SNELL PASSED AWAY.
Last One of Clinton's Millionaires Dies in Bloomington at the Home of Mrs. J. T. Snell.

The last one of the three men who came to Clinton without money or influence, and became millionaires, has heard the final summons. Hon. C. H. MOORE, Dr. John WARNER and Col. Thos. SNELL came to Clinton over sixty years ago with no capital except plenty of brains and willing hands, and they each accumulated more than a million dollars worth of property, most of it being in land, which had increased many times in value. Each lived more than four score years.

Of these men who made history for Clinton, Col. Snell was the last to pass away, his death occurring at one o'clock Wednesday at the home of Mrs. J. T. SNELL, his daughter-in-law in Bloomington, where he had made his home more than a year. He was in usual health until about three weeks ago when he suffered a stroke of paralysis. He failed rapidly and was unconscious for ten days before his death.

Thomas Snell was born in Cincinnati, Dec. 26, 1818, and was nearly 89 years old. His father was a contractor and commission merchant, who was born in New Jersey and who died in Pekin, Ill. His mother died in Iowa. Col. Snell was the fourth of a family of five brothers, of which he is the last of two survivors. His early advantages for securing an education were limited to the log school houses of Pekin and vicinity, where his father moved with his family in 1829. The town was then called Townsite. Until 1845 he lived in Pekin and Washington, Tazewell county, when he moved to Clinton, DeWitt County, where he has since resided, and where he achieved that success in life which has attained his great energy and tireless industry. While in Washington he followed mercantile pursuits, as he did in Clinton until 1852, when the Illinois Central railroad was beginning to be built. At once he took an active part in railroad construction, building 800 miles of the Illinois Central.

He afterward built 150 miles of the Chicago & Northwestern, forty miles of the Ohio & Dayton, eighty miles of the Bloomington, Lafayette & Mississippi, afterward the Lake Erie & Western road; eighty miles of the Lafayette road from Champaign to Havana, a distance of 101 miles, of which road he was made president, the first in its history. He studied less in making a railroad contract than the average man does in trading horses. His quickness of perception, his knowledge of men and his keen insight into business stood him well in hand in all of these contracts.

His restless energy was not content with all of the railroad work he had carried through and in addition he operated an extensive wagon factory in Aurora, which he in company with S. I. KEITH, erected in 1859, and continued until '65. Politically Col. Snell was a Democrat, but he has always been known everywhere as a man of particular independence on all of his views and he never bowed down to any party. He said that he never belonged to any society, church or other organization in all his life and he believed that he was the better man for it. Before the war, however, he was generally a Democrat, a Buchanan man, and in 1860 he was nominated for lieutenant governor on the Breckenridge ticket. At that time so valuable were his services rated politically that Gen. George B. McClellan, afterward of Civil War fame, then president of the Illinois Central and its surveyor and engineer, and Stephen A. DOUGLAS came to Clinton on a special train to offer him anything he might want to throw his influence with the Douglas Democracy. But when the war broke out he became a Republican. He raised and commanded as colonel the 107th regiment of Illinois volunteers, composed of six companies from DeWitt county and four from Piatt, and served at the head of the regiment.

In 1863 he returned to Clinton and resumed his business life. He said that his service in the army lost him $100 per day, as he was making wealth rapidly at that time. Mr. Snell later turned his attention to banking and the operation of large tracts of land, which he followed to the time of his retirement. He was one of the richest men in central Illinois and one of the best known citizens. Mr. Snell was married to Miss Sarah E. CHURCH, of Washington, in 1840, and she passed away October 11, 1876. Five children were born to the union, two of whom died in infancy. But one survives, Richard SNELL, president of the DeWitt County National Bank. Welby SNELL died several years ago and Jas. Thornton died at his home in Bloomington in 1891 [1896]; at the time of his death he was president of the bank, and his brother now is.

His record during the civil war was one with which both the colonel and his friends look back at with pride. During the year 1862 large quantities of grain were shipped south from Illinois and Col. Snell at once telegraphed the fact to Gov. YATES, saying: "Stop the shipment of grain south, or I will." He was popular with his men and he said that when they asked him why he took such good care of them while in uniform, he declared that they had mothers, wives and sweethearts to look after them at home, but while away they were only under his guiding care and he was going to see that they received the best. The colonel remembered one amusing incident. While his regiment was passing through Louisville he prompted his men to sing "John Brown's Body Lies Mouldering in the Grave." They fairly screeched the song at the colonel's orders, and an old colored man came up to him and cried, "God Bless you, massa; the good Lord will look after you!" For this and for ordering his men to burn rail fences for their comfort and general disobedience of orders, he was put in military jail. His release was by SWETT and WELDON. During the war he became one of the most radical of the radicals and in 1864 he was almost decided not to vote for Lincoln, because he was not radical enough to suit that Illinoisan.

Funeral services were held at the residence in Bloomington at 2:30 today. A special car was run from Clinton at one o'clock. The body was placed in a vault in the Bloomington cemetery until a vault can be built in the Clinton cemetery.

Mrs. Thomas SNELL 

October 14, 1875
Clinton Public

It is with no ordinary sorrow we record the death of Mrs. Sarah E. SNELL, wife of Col. Thomas SNELL, in Indianapolis, on Monday, Oct. 11th, 1875, at 9 o'clock P.M.

Only three weeks ago she left her home with two of her sons to make a few short visits of pleasure and recreation in Indianapolis and Cincinnati. Almost immediately on her arrival in Indianapolis she was attacked by a chill, from which she never recovered. From the first, her suffering was intense, and nothing which the affection to solicitude and attention of husband and sons and daughter and friends availed to relieve her. Day by day she was pressed steadily and irresistibly on to death.

Yesterday morning her dead body, precious even in death, was brought to our city, accompanied by the grief-stricken family, and was borne sadly along our streets, to the home where so recently her living presence had made sunshine and gladness and love. Tomorrow she will be carried by sorrowing friends to the house appointed for all living.

No ordinary death record is this of Mrs. Snell. A devoted husband has lost the presence of a loving faithful wife. Affectionate children will no longer hear the voice of a prudent, faithful and loving mother. The light of a happy home has suddenly gone out. There is a vacant chair at the tableside, and a large community has been bereaved of a long-tried friend. Not many of us can speak of our personal knowledge of the twenty-nine years of Mrs. Snell’s residence in this city, for only four ladies are now living here who were in this place when she removed to it; but they, her old associates, and we, her later friends, when we recall her memory, will have clearly before our minds the picture of a good citizen, a friendly neighbor, a faithful friend, and a benevolent Christian. Always considerate of the poor, always faithful to the Master, who is not forgetful even of a cup of cold water given in his name to one of his disciples, her beneficence kept pace with her ability, until in later and prosperous days the gifts of her good will were measured by the most liberal conceptions of Christian duty. She was a Christian and Christianity was the adornment of her domestic and social life.

Surely God meant that such a character and such example should lead us who have seen and known them to rest our hopes on the same Christianity and to look for the same crown of glory hereafter. But the person and example have passed from our sight, and now under the influence of their memory we would imitate her virtues and emulate her religious consecration and die in the same humble faith in the merits of the Redeemer.

We drop our tears of sympathy with the tears of grief flowing fast and full from the heart of the stricken husband, and we commend him and the bereaved family to the comforts of the religion in which died the beloved wife and affectionate mother.

Note: Her husband's obituary listed her maiden name as Sarah E. Church.

Thomas SNELL, Jr. 

February 15, 1866
Clinton Public

DIED.—At the residence of his father, Col. Thomas SNELL, near this town, on the 7th inst., Thomas SNELL, Jr., aged 22 years, 2 months, and 3 days.

When a child, Tommy exhibited more than usual intelligence and was known as a remarkable boy, but as is often the case with precocious children, he was attacked with "fits," which, at about the age of ten years dethroned reason, and for the last twelve years he has been almost utterly mentally impotent.

Although that extraordinary mind, which in early childhood promised so much, was obscured, yet as if to endear him to his family and friends, and to show that it still existed, encased in its tenement of clay, he occasionally manifested a clear exercise of reason, when his soul would beam forth from his face and he would utter an intelligible sentence. On one of these occasions, when looking from the window upon a bright and lovely landscape, he turned to his father, gazed earnestly into eyes, his face beaming with intelligence, and asked tenderly, "Do you love God?" On another, he said, "I love God!" What a beautiful yet melancholy picture! It exhibited God's watch-care over him. All that the warmest affection or tenderest care could suggest was done for him during his long years of mental darkness, by his devoted parents.

Cora B. (WARRICK) SNELLING 

August 20, 1915
Clinton Register

DIED AFTER A SHORT ILLNESS.
Mrs. K. C. Snelling Had Been Sick During Past Three Years—
Was Thought Recovering.

Mrs. K. C. SNELLING, who was thought to be gradually recovering her former health after an illness of three years, died at her home at 1:20 P.M. Sunday after a few hours illness. For some time she was thought to be gaining and was able to be on the streets Saturday, but Sunday morning she was found in front of the home in an unconscious condition from which she never rallied. Her illness was nervous disorders from which she had suffered for years and several times hope was given up, but later improvement followed.

Funeral services were held at 2:30 Tuesday afternoon from the Christian church, Rev. L. B. Pickerill, a former pastor, in charge, assisted by the local pastor. Burial in Woodlawn.

Cora WARRICK, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. M. WARRICK, was born in Clinton February 19, 1874, and was married to K. C. SNELLING November 17, 1894. Two boys, Noel and Neal, were born to the couple and with their father survive the wife and mother. She is also survived by her parents and three brothers and a sister, Thomas, Grover and Fred WARRICK, the two former at home, and a sister, Mrs. Berie CALDWELL, of Decatur. Another sister, Mrs. Bell YOUNG, died recently. Mrs. Snelling was a member of the Christian church in which she was a faithful worker previous to her illness. She also was a member of the Court of Honor and Rebekah degree. Mrs. Snelling had many friends and was a lover of her home and family.

Henry SNYDER 

July 31, 1862
Clinton Public

Death of an Old Citizen.

Mr. Henry SNYDER, one of the oldest citizens of this place, died at his residence, in this city, on Tuesday night. Many years ago "Uncle Harry" kept the only hotel in Decatur, and those who visited the town in its early days all remember him. For a long time previous to his death, Mr. Snyder had been in extremely precarious health, and for several weeks his friends have been watching at what they supposed would prove his death bed. Thus are our oldest inhabitants leaving us, and soon the hardy pioneers of thirty years ago will all be gone. —Decatur Chronicle.

Mrs. H. C. SPAINHOUR 

March 5, 1915
Clinton Register

CHRISTIAN MOTHER IS CALLED.
Clinton Woman Passes Away at Her Home Tuesday Night—
Health Had Been Failing for Sometime.

A few minutes before 12 o'clock Tuesday night at the home on South Center street occurred the death of Mrs. H. C. SPAINHOUR. While her health had been failing for nearly a year, the fatal sickness was short, yet it was realized death was near, and all the children, except one, were present when she passed away.

She was the daughter of Asbury and Elizabeth SMALLWOOD, and was born in Creek township August 10, 1850. She was married to H. C. SPAINHOUR in 1867, and they lived on a farm near Lane until about four years ago when they moved to Clinton, occupying their property on S. Center street, which had since been their home.

She is survived by her husband and eight children [only six are listed] as follows: Cory, Verven, Mrs. Laura TACKWELL, Mrs. Nettie LISENBY, Ellis and Alma, the latter at home. She is also survived by three sisters: Mrs. John SIMPSON, of Lane; Mrs. Maggie SMITH, of Cerro Gordo; Mrs. Eliza PARKHURST, of Oklahoma City, Okla.; and two brothers, P. M. SMALLWOOD, of Weldon; and Samuel, of Riverdale, Kan.

She was a faithful Christian, being a member of the Lane Christian church many years and was always ready to do her part in religious work. She was always attached to her home and family and her pilgrimage on earth was marked by the good she had done.

Funeral services were held in the Christian church in Clinton at 2:30 today, conducted by Rev. R. V. Callaway. Burial in Woodlawn cemetery.

Note: Her maiden name was Lavina Deborah Smallwood.

Isham SPARKS 

August 6, 1917
Clinton Daily Public

ISHAM SPARKS BURIED TODAY.
Well Known Citizen Died in John Warner Hospital Saturday Night at 9 O’clock.

The funeral of the late Isham SPARKS was held this afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from the family home on West Van Buren street. Rev. R. V. Callaway of the Christian church was in charge of the services.

Mr. Sparks’ death occurred Saturday night at 9 o'clock in the John Warner hospital, after an illness of about three weeks. He has been in ill health for the past fifteen years but has been able to be up and around for a large part of the time.

Isham Sparks was born in Marengo, Ia., on Nov. 8, 1858. His mother, Mrs. Elizabeth SPARKS, who is past 90 years of age, was at his bedside during his last illness and was present when the end came. By his first marriage there were two children born, one of whom, T. SPARKS of Taylorville, survives. By his second marriage to Mrs. Elizabeth STEWART, who died a few months ago, there were two children born, one of whom, Miss Anna, is living. He is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. R. J. HALL, of Hope, Ind., and Mrs. J. W. LANE, of this city; one brother, Ezra SPARKS and four step-daughters, Mrs. George STRINE and Misses Lena, Florence and Kathryn STEWART.

Mrs. Richard SPARKS 

August 29, 1917
Clinton Daily Public

DEATH CALLS MRS. ELIZABETH SPARKS.
Aged 88 Years—
Had Been Invalid for Past Three Years—
Funeral Thursday Afternoon.

Mrs. Elizabeth SPARKS, widow of Richard SPARKS, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. W. LANE, in Clinton, Wednesday morning at 1 o'clock. The deceased was 88 years of age and for the past three years had been an invalid. Death was due to infirmities of old age. The funeral will be held from the home on West Jefferson street in Clinton, Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock, in charge of Rev. A. M. Wells. Interment in the Woodlawn cemetery.

Elizabeth ELDER was born in Pennsylvania, Aug. 7, 1829, being one of eight children born to Mr. and Mrs. John ELDER. The Elder family later moved to Virginia and from there to Ohio then to Iowa and finally coming to Illinois where the deceased has since made her home. April 10, 1856, the deceased was united in marriage to Richard Sparks, who preceded his wife in death in 1883. To this union seven children were born, three of whom, Mrs. J. W. Lane, and Ezra SPARKS, of Clinton, and Mrs. Rovena J. HALL, of Indiana, and six [grand]children and ten great-grandchildren survive.

Mrs. Sparks was for many years a member of the Methodist church and was most highly respected by a host of friends and acquaintances.

Fred SPARROW 

Date Unknown
Paper Unknown

FARMER CITY (PNS).— Fred SPARROW, 75, of Champaign, a former Farmer City area farmer, died at 3:24 p.m. Sunday at Cole Hospital in Champaign. He had been ill three weeks. His funeral will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Stensel Funeral Home, with burial in Maple Grove Cemetery. Visitation was to begin at the Funeral home after 2 p.m. today.

He was born at Farmer City, Dec. 10, 1889, a son of Benjamin and Elizabeth (McKANTZ) SPARROW. He married Madge VAN NOTE in Clinton, in March, 1909 [should be June 1, 1909]. She died in 1961. A retired farmer, Mr. Sparrow lived in Champaign for 12 years after moving from Farmer City. Surviving are three sons, Lester SPARROW, Akron, Ohio; Cecil SPARROW, Indianapolis, Ind.; Joseph SPARROW, Danvers; seven daughters, Miss Patty SPARROW, Lincoln; Mrs. Ruby BRANSON, Champaign; Mrs. Virginia MURRAY, Gridley; Mrs. Bernice SAATHOFF, Champaign; Mrs. Peggy STRETCH, Colfax; Miss Ethel SPARROW, Cooksville; Mrs. Mary ELLIOTT, Bloomington; two brothers, Barney SPARROW, Helena, Mont.; Guy SPARROW, Champaign; three sisters, Mrs. Jessie MORGAN, Mrs. Ruth READY, Farmer City; Mrs. Emma TATMAN, Portland, Ore. Two sons, a daughter and four sisters preceded him in death.

Submitted by Mary (Meliza) Berg

Joseph H. SPARROW 

1996
Paper Unknown

DANVERS.— Joseph H. SPARROW, 63, of 109 E. Main, Danvers, died at 10:30 a.m. Monday (Nov. 25, 1996) at the Danville Veterans Affairs Medical Center. His funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Otto-Argo Funeral Home, Danvers, the Rev. Ronald THACKER officiating. Burial will be in Park Lawn Cemetery, Danvers. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Danvers Rescue Squad.

He is survived by his wife, Reva; one daughter, Becky HAYES, Bloomington; two sons, Brian K. SPARROW, Sumrall, Miss.; and Ronald L. SPARROW, Danvers; four sisters, Bernice SAATHOFF and Patty SPARROW, both of Champaign; Peggy STRETCH, Colfax; and Mary Lou ELLIOTT, St. Petersburg, Fla.; and four grandchildren. One son, Bart; five brothers; and three sisters preceded him in death.

He was born Oct. 19, 1933 in Farmer City, a son of Fred F. and Madge (VAN NOTE) SPARROW. He married Reva M. BROOKS Feb. 3, 1956, in Towanda. Mr. Sparrow was a truck driver for Brandt Truck Line, retiring in 1976. He served in the 11th Airborne Division during World War II.

Madge (VAN NOTE) SPARROW 

1961
Paper Unknown

Mrs. Madge Bell SPARROW, 68, of 602 S. Roosevelt died at Mennonite Hospital at 8:30 a.m. Monday. She had been ill six months. Her funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the Beck Memorial Home, with burial in Maple Grove cemetery at Farmer City. Friends may call at the memorial home after 2 p.m. Wednesday.

She was born at Farmer City, May 6, 1893, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James VAN NOTE. She was married to Fred Felix SPARROW at Clinton, June 1, 1919 [should be 1909]. Surviving are her husband, Fred, Champaign; four sons, Lester F., Akron, Ohio; Cecil, Indianapolis, Ind.; Essel M., Merna, and Joe, Danvers; six daughters, Mrs. Ruby BRANSON and Mrs. Bernice SAATOFF, both of Champaign; Mrs. Virginia MURRAY, Gridley; Mrs. Mary ELIOT, Bloomington; Mrs. Jaunity STRETCH, Colfax and Miss Patricia SPARROW, Lincoln; a brother, James VAN NOTE, Melvindale, Mich.; 20 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. She was a member of the First Christian Church at Farmer City and was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary.

Submitted by Mary (Meliza) Berg

Albert J. SPENCER 

June 7, 1895
Clinton Public

Thrown From a Horse and Killed.

Albert J., son of John SPENCER, was herding stock by the road side, Tuesday afternoon, when his horse became frightened and threw him off. It stepped upon him and appearances indicate that it dragged him some distance. When he was found his neck was broken and he was badly bruised. He gasped twice after his mother reached him. Funeral services were held at his mother's residence, conducted by Rev. L. B. PICKERILL, and the remains buried in Texas cemetery. He was eleven years and one day old.

Florence SPENCER 

January 12, 1900
Clinton Register

Florence, daughter of Porter and Lella SPENCER, aged 1 year, 5 months and 17 days, died at her parents' home, five miles west of Clinton, Tuesday, 9th inst., of spinal meningitis after a few days of intense suffering. She was the last of a family of five children. A large concourse attended the funeral at the home of the parents, interment at the Howard cemetery, Rev. D. MacArthur officiating.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

L. B. SPENCER 

January 5, 1900
Clinton Register

ANOTHER OLD CITIZEN DIES.
L. B. Spencer, of Texas Township, Passes Away After a Short Illness.
Funeral Wednesday.

Another of the oldest residents of Texas township has answered the summons that comes to all. For two or three weeks previous to one week ago last Saturday L. B. SPENCER had been troubled with a cold. On that day he was confined to his bed and a physician summoned, but he gradually grew worse until last Monday night when death came, the direct cause being pneumonia.

Deceased was born in Kentucky nearly 67 years ago, and his parents came to this state when he was young. In 1856 he was married to Mrs. SCOTT, who had nine children. To them three were born, Thomas, Albert and Frank, who are living. Millie SPENCER, and three brothers, John, James and Levi, survive him, all living near Clinton. He served in the civil war three years, being a member of the 107th. He lived in Texas township since grown [sic] to manhood except a few years in Kansas. He was a member of the Christian church of this city. Politically he had always been a Republican. His stepchildren who live in this county are Mrs. R. H. BENNETT, of this city; Mrs. KIRBY, Mrs. H. C. GRIFFIN and M. P. SCOTT, near Kenney; L. D. SCOTT, of California; and Mrs. MOHNEY, of Kansas.

Funeral services were held in the Christian church in Clinton Wednesday at 11 o'clock, conducted by Rev. PICKERILL. Interment was in Woodlawn cemetery.

Lawrence SPENCER 

December 10, 1897
Clinton Public

A SMALL BOY DROWNED.
The Five-Year-Old son of Frank Spencer Falls into a Cistern.

Mrs. Frank SPENCER was doing her weekly washing, two and one-half miles south of Clinton, at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, when her son Lawrence, five years old, was playing about the house. Using water from the cistern, she left the opening uncovered, when the child accidentally fell against the elevation at the cistern and fell backward into the water, drowning before help could be summoned. Mrs. Spencer learned at once of her child's disappearance, and running to the home of Joseph JOHNSON, one-half mile distant, notified Mrs. JOHNSON and her son of the great affliction that had befallen her. When they arrived at the home of Mrs. Spencer, the child was dead, the son taking the body of the boy from the cistern. It is said that if the child could have stood up, the water would not have covered him. The coroner went out this morning to hold the inquest.

Mrs. Levi SPENCER, Sr. 

March 10, 1899
Clinton Public

Mrs. Levi SPENCER, Sr., aged 96, and one of the oldest settlers of DeWitt county, died Sunday at the home of her son, Levi SPENCER, in Texas township. Deceased, with her husband, settled in this county in 1850. She leaves four sons and one daughter surviving her, Berry, Levi, John and James SPENCER, and Millie SPENCER. Funeral services were held last Monday at 10 a.m. Interment at Woodlawn.

Samuel SPENCER 

March 7, 1884
Clinton Public

Samuel SPENCER, an old and honorable citizen of this county, died at his home in Harp township, on Monday March 3rd, at the age of 65 years, after an illness of five months duration. His sufferings, which were long and severe, were borne with Christian resignation. He was a native of Kentucky and moved to this state in 1859. Mr. Spencer was loved and respected by all who knew him. He was a Baptist in belief. He leaves a widow, three sons and two daughters to mourn his loss. The funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon, at 8 o'clock, and was largely attended by his neighbors. He was buried in the Wilmore Cemetery, Elder D. Mac ARTHUR, officiating.

Samuel S. SPENCER 

September 4, 1877
Clinton Public

Samuel S. SPENCER, one of the first settlers of the county, was buried on Wednesday of last week. Elder Thompson, of the Christian Church, delivered a very impressive funeral sermon.

--------------------

September 7, 1877
Clinton Public

Samuel S. SPENCER, another passed over the shores of time September 4, at his residence. Uncle Sam moved from Sangamon County, this state, in the year 1830. He has lived on his farm about 46 years. When he first settled here he had a horse mill for grinding corn and wheat. People would come to his mill for forty miles around to get their meal and flour. His age was about eighty-six years. Elder THOMPSON preaches his funeral discourse at the Christian Church.

--------------------

September 7, 1877
Clinton Public

Uncle Sammy SPENCER died at his residence in Long Point, after a brief illness. He was one of the earliest settlers in Long Point, having at one time owned a large tract of land. He gave his children a good farm each. He has been afflicted for some twenty years. His remains were interred in the Crum Cemetery Wednesday evening.

Minos Baker SPICER 

May 1, 1903
Clinton Register

ANOTHER GOOD CITIZEN DEAD.
One of Tunbridge Township's Most Honored Men Crosses the River of Death—
Burial in Woodlawn.

The first of last week M. B. SPICER was stricken with paralysis at his home two and a half miles east of Kenney. From that time there was little hope that he would recover. He slowly grew worse and the end came at 8:30 Sunday night, surrounded by his family and near friends, having been unconscious two days. He was 82 years, 9 months and 14 days old.

Minos Baker Spicer was born July 12,1820, in Clark county, Ind., to where his parents moved from Delaware. They moved from Indiana to Logan county, Ill., in 1833, settling two miles southeast of Springfield. Feb. 13, 1851, he was married to Miss Mary Jane MILLER, who with one daughter, Mrs. W. A. MILLS, of Chicago, and three sons, John, Joseph and Benjamin, living in Tunbridge township, survive him. In 1854 the family came to DeWitt county and lived near Kenney until 1874, when Mr. Spicer moved to Clinton where he lived about twelve years before returning to his farm east of Kenney.

Mr. Spicer was one of the few men who had no enemies. No one was heard to say aught against "Uncle Bake" as he was familiarly known. He was one of those even-tempered, good natured men who make everyone feel at home when in their company. His home was always open to his friends, and they were ever glad to enjoy his good nature and hospitality. There are few men so generally admired.

By industry, economy and good management he years ago became well-to-do and the declining years of his life were spent in peaceful enjoyment of the fruits of the success of his early life. He owned about 800 acres of land in Tunbridge township, and his estate is worth about $75,000. He had been an honored member of the Masonic order many years, his membership being with DeWitt lodge No. 84 until Henderson lodge was organized in Kenney, when he became a member of that lodge. Politically he was always a Democrat, and while always much interested in his party's success, never cared for official honor.

Funeral services were held at the home Wednesday at 10 o'clock, conducted by Rev. E. A. GILLILAND. Henderson lodge had charge of the remains and conducting the rites of the order at the grave. Interment was in Woodlawn cemetery near Clinton.

Submitted by Bob Halsey

Anna SPIDLE 

June 1, 1877
Clinton Public

Anna SPIDLE, eldest daughter of Mr. William SPIDLE, was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery on Tuesday. The funeral ceremonies were held in the M. E. Church.

Lida Emily SPINK 

October 29, 1886
Clinton Public

Lida Emily, the youngest child of Edward J. and Alice SPINK, died in this city on last Saturday, October 23, aged four years and two weeks. Little Lida was a member of the infant class in the Methodist Sunday-school, and her classmates attended the funeral on Sunday.

James SPRADLING 

June 1, 1883
Clinton Public

Mustered Out.

Two years ago James SPRADLING was at work at one of Colonel SNELL’s farmhouses, building new foundations under the building and under the front porch. He had the porch propped up, as he thought, perfectly secure, and he was working underneath it getting ready to lay the foundation walls. By some accident the underpinning gave away and the porch fell on Mr. Spradling. When the wreck was cleared away and Mr. Spradling was lifted out he was totally unconscious, and it was then thought he could hardly survive the trip to his house. He was restored to consciousness after reaching home, but when the physician examined his injuries he discovered that Mr. Spradling’s spine had received such a shock as would result in paralysis. The physician’s worst fears were realized, and for two years poor James Spradling was confined to his bed a complete bodily wreck. From his waist down his body and limbs were paralyzed. He could not help himself, not even being able to move in his bed without the assistance of others. For two years the poor fellow suffered and without any hope of ever again being able to provide for the wants of his family of little children. His family, however, was not allowed to suffer. Their father was a soldier, and Clinton in a measure adopted the children as its wards.

On Wednesday morning, while Clinton was preparing to decorate the graves of the brave men who had given their lives that the Nation might be saved, James Spradling’s life passed beyond the boundaries of the unknown world. His death was not unexpected to him, nor was it an unwelcome visitor. To all intents and purposes he was dead to the world from the moment when that porch fell and crushed him two years ago. James Spradling had lived in Clinton from his youth. Before arriving at man’s estate he enlisted as a private in Co. A, Thirty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, raised at Normal, in which regiment he served till the close of the war. Then he returned to Clinton. He was only thirty-nine years of age when he died. He leaves a wife and six children. The funeral ceremonies were conducted yesterday afternoon under the auspices of Frank Lowry Post, G. A. R. The deceased was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery with due military honors.

--------------------

June 1, 1883
Clinton Register

Mr. James SPRADLING, who died in this city on Wednesday morning at 7 o’clock, has been confined to his bed about three years from injuries received while aiding in the erection of Mr. Snell’s big barn north of town. He has been a patient uncomplaining sufferer for that long time, and leaves a family to the care and protection of his old soldier friends and the people generally, who will see that they do not suffer. The remains were buried in the soldier’s grounds in Woodlawn on yesterday evening at 4 o’clock with military honors under direction of Frank Lowry Post with its impressive burial service. Rest at last.

John SPRADLING 

April 22, 1887
Clinton Public

Death of John Spradling.

During the past winter John SPRADLING lay sick and alone in his house, which was but little removed from a hovel, and there he died last Sunday. No relative was here to wait on him during his long and weary sickness. Spradling was a strange man. He hated all mankind. Even those who ministered to his wants during his last sickness could not gain his confidence or a kind word from him.

John Spradling was born in Summer county, Tennessee, on the 11th of October, 1811. Nothing is known of his early life, as Spradling had no intimate associates. He came to Clinton from Indiana sometime about 1858, and first lived, after coming here, on what is now Fin MORGAN's farm. Before coming to Clinton he was a preacher in the Bible Christians denomination, and was also a practitioner of medicine. Neither of these did he follow after he came to Clinton, and no one would have ever suspected that he had been a minister of the gospel. He was a man of marked character, well informed on the current history of the day, and might have been a useful man in society. His wife and children are living in Kansas. He was buried last Monday afternoon, the Rev. W. A. HUNTER conducting the services.

Charles T. SPRAGUE 

January 20, 1882
Clinton Public

Died at his home in Barnett township, Dec. 26th, 1881, Charles T. SPRAGUE. Mr. Sprague was born March 6th, 1859, and had lived in this county all his life, being a little less than 23 years of age at his death. He was married to Miss Alice GARDNER about two years ago, and had always been an industrious, hard-working and well-respected farmer. He had not been well for many weeks previous to his death, but he baffled the effects of ill health until about fourteen days before his death, at which time he was confined to his bed and so remained the balance of his life. Typhoid Fever set in, followed by pneumonia, and, although his death was unexpected at that time, his decline from his first confinement was rapid and plain to be seen. He was unconscious and irrational during part of his sickness, but at times was bright and cheerful. Only a few hours before his death he awoke, thoroughly realizing his critical condition, and so informed his brother that he knew he must die and that soon, and it was useless to attempt to convince him of anything to the contrary. He then said he wanted to see all his relatives and as many friends as were there. He bade each a long farewell, assuring them he was ready and prepared to go, and exhorted them that they also prepare to meet him in that better land to which he felt perfectly certain he was soon going.

Charley, as he was familiarly called, was a young man of good habits, generous impulse, a kind heart, and one who always gave his support and influence to the moral side of all questions and movements. Just a year before his death, however, under the ministry of Rev. S. ELY, he became convinced that something more than simple morality was required of us all and, he embraced the Christian religion, and his conduct and mode of life since that time has thoroughly convinced those with whom he mingled that he was in truth a consistent Christian, which is the source of unmeasured consolation to his relatives and many friends. He gave directions as to the place of his burial, and his funeral will be preached at the Old Union Christian Church, of which he was a member, Sunday, January 22d, at 11 o’clock A. M., by Rev. S. Ely.

Hattie (MOORE) SPRAGUE 

December 17, 1886
Clinton Public

Death of Mrs. John T. Sprague.

After less than three years of married life, death invaded the home of Mr. John T. SPRAGUE and took from it his young wife. Mrs. SPRAGUE developed the seeds of consumption about one year ago, and from that time till her death she was an invalid. She died on Tuesday afternoon, December 13, at two o'clock. Mrs. Hattie SPRAGUE was born April 17, 1862, near Farmer City, and was the daughter of Joseph A. and Sarah H. MOORE. Death did not come to her unexpectedly nor was she unprepared. Her life was devoted to making home and friends happy. The funeral services were held at her late home, three miles west of this city, on Wednesday morning, Elder HOLTON officiating. Her remains were taken to Farmer City and were buried in the Moore family lot in the cemetery. Mr. Sprague has the sympathy of friends in this sad affliction which will cast a shadow over his early life.

Joseph SPRAGUE 

May 24, 1889
Clinton Public

Joseph SPRAGUE, a resident of Barnett township for thirty-four years, died last Sunday, having suffered years of pain and affliction from a cancer near the right eye. Eleven months ago he went to Chicago for treatment and the surgeon found it necessary to remove his right eye. The cancer first showed itself about five years ago, and at no time after was he ever free from pain. During the past year it was necessary to operate upon it about once every two weeks. Six months ago he gave up all hope of being cured, and from that time he calmly faced the inevitable, expecting death at almost any hour. Mr. Sprague was born in Gallipolis, Ohio, in the year 1820, and at his death he was sixty-nine years of age. He was married in the year 1844, and was the father of ten children, six of whom, with his wife, survive him. He came to Illinois in 1855 and settled in Barnett township. Mr. Sprague owned a farm of eighty-five acres, beside a considerable amount in personal property. At his death he did not owe a dollar to anyone, as for the past six months he had been getting his business so shaped as to leave no incumbrances.

--------------------

June 7, 1889
Clinton Public

Joseph D., husband of Frances Sprague, of Barnett township, was born in Gallia Co., Ohio, July 29, 1820, and died May 19, 1889, aged 69 years, 9 months and 20 days. He was married to Miss Frances Watkins, in his native State, on Sept. 22, 1844. At this time and up to the dark days of the sixties our country was greatly disturbed over the questions of State Sovereignty and Slavery; but no discordant element entered the marital life of Joseph D. Sprague. There were born to them in this nuptial union ten children, seven of whom were girls and three boys. Of this number one son and three daughters preceded their kind and tender father to the other realm. Father Sprague was a great sufferer during the two or three years prior to his departure from us. On Sunday, May 19, he fell a victim to the cause of his suffering—cancer of his right eye. Father Sprague united with the M. E. Church in 1842, in Ohio, but was not identified with any particular denomination since coming to Illinois. He, however, died, thank God, in the triumphs of a living faith—the faith whose genus were [sic] implanted in his earlier life. He leaves a large number of relatives and friends to mourn their loss. His funeral sermon was preached by the writer, on Monday, May 20th, at one o’clock, p.m., beneath the shade of the evergreens of the home residence, near Hallsville, to a large concourse of warm-hearted neighbors and sympathizing friends. The remains were then conveyed to Woodlawn cemetery, at Clinton, where the last sad rites were performed, when they were laid to rest, awaiting the glorious resurrection. — J. E. ARTZ.

Julia (SMITH) SPRAGUE 

December 1, 1893
Clinton Register

Monday, November 27, at her home three miles west of Clinton Mrs. Julia A. SPRAGUE, widow of the late C. L. SPRAGUE, departed this life aged 68 years, 10 months and 5 days. Funeral services were held at the Christian church in this city Wednesday at 11:30, conducted by Rev. Pickerill. Interment was in Woodlawn cemetery. A brief biography will be published next week.

--------------------

December 8, 1893
Clinton Register

GONE TO HER HOME.
Mrs. Julia A. Sprague Ends Her Pilgrimage Here Below.

Mrs. Julia Ann SPRAGUE was born in Rockingham county West Virginia Jan. 22, 1825, and died at her home three miles west of Clinton Nov. 27, at 1 A.M. , aged 68 years , 10 months and five days. Her father, Samuel SMITH, emigrated from West Virginia to Ogle county, Ill. Being in humble circumstances and having a large family to support he permitted Mrs. Sprague to make her own way in the world when she was but eight years old, either by caring for little children or doing light work in the homes of friends and neighbors. When she was 13 years of age her mother died, and her father moved to Freeport, Ill. For many years she was employed in the families of Dr. Brookey, Dr. Hardin, Mr. Hall, and Dr. Martin; with the family of the last named she spent 19-½ years, about this time she went to live with an invalid brother and care for his little motherless girl. Here she remained until August 15, 1868. When she married the late Chas. L. SPRAGUE of Clinton, and became mother to his motherless children, all of whom now living reside in DeWitt county. They are Mrs. Eliza ARMSTRONG, Mrs. Mary KOONS, Chas. Peter SPRAGUE, Mrs. Margaret SWAN, John T. SPRAGUE, Barzilia C. SPRAGUE and Mrs. Rutha WHETSLER. With these as they grew to manhood and womanhood Mrs. Sprague shared the joys and sorrows of life. And oft since the death of the father, which occurred two years ago, the children have assembled at the old home to give comfort and cheer to the one they had learned to love and call mother. Mrs. Sprague was of a religious turn of mind and many hours did she spend reading her hymn book and Bible. Over a year ago she publicly confessed her Saviour and was baptized into Christ. The one cause of regret to her, as she expressed herself several times, was that she had put off the duty of becoming a Christian until so late in life, and that she was unable on account of affliction to enjoy the communion and fellowship of brothers and sisters in the Church she so dearly loved. One of the last acts was a benevolent one giving $100 to the Christian church of which she was a faithful member. She had expressed it was her earnest desire that if it were the Lord's will she might not live to be a care and burden to others. This wish was surely realized for death came suddenly, and yet not in terror for her. "For she knew in whom she had believed and was sure He was able to keep her until that day." Funeral services were held in the Christian church, Wednesday at 11 A.M. conducted by Rev. L. B. Pickerill.

Submitted by Kay Gavin

Mary Tabitha SPRAGUE 

February 16, 1883
Clinton Public

DIED—Mary Tabitha SPRAGUE, daughter of B. C. and Arie SPRAGUE, died February 13th, 1883, aged one year, four months and thirteen days. No more on earth shall you embrace that precious little form, or hear her lisp the name of “papa” or “mama,” but her spirit hovers around the great white throne, and in the “sweet, bye and bye” you may meet her again. —T.

Mrs. Ada SPROUT 

December 11, 1896
Clinton Public

Leaves an Interesting Family.

A niece of Jacob ZIEGLER, Mrs. Ada SPROUT, died at her home, eight miles north of Farmer City, on Tuesday the 1st inst., of a complication of diseases. The funeral was held on Thursday at the M. E. church, and remains taken to Maple Grove cemetery for burial. Mr. and Mrs. Ziegler attended the funeral. The deceased leaves a husband and six children, the oldest 21 years and the youngest seven years old.

Ephraim SRIVER 

December 25, 1891
Clinton Public

Ephraim SRIVER was called from earth to heaven last Saturday morning [Dec. 19], in the eighty-seventh year of his life. It can be truly said of him that he was a man who devoutly followed God and tried to live up to the commandments. He was born in Green County, Pennsylvania, on the 15th of June, 1805, and the early part of his life was spent in Ohio. In the year 1860 he came to Clinton and for several years occupied the farm now owned by M. R. Colwell. He followed the avocation of a farmer till he became too old for hard work, and then he bought property in town. He was married sixty-four years ago, and was the father of nine children, six of whom are living. One boy served his country faithfully through the war. His aged wife is eighty-five years old this Christmas day. Father Sriver was a just man in all of his dealings with his fellowmen, and when he was lying on his deathbed he could proudly say to his family “I owe no man a dollar.” Both he and his wife were earnest members of the M. E. Church since the days of their marriage.

Seymour SRIVER 

April 25, 1913
Clinton Register

SRIVER DIED ALL ALONE.
Found Dead in His Bed at 7:30 Monday Morning.

At his home on South Center street at 7:30 Monday morning Seymour SRIVER was found dead in his bed, no one having been present when the grim reaper made his appearance.

Deceased had lived alone since the death of his brother Wesley 2 years ago, but for the past month A. A. FERGUSON had been living with him. Mr. Sriver had not been well for the past year and last fall spent two weeks in the Warner hospital. Deceased was born at Shellsburg, Wis., April 1, 1849, and at the time of his death was aged 65 years. At the age of nine years he moved with his parents to Newton, O., coming to Clinton three years later where he had since made his home the greater part of his life. He learned the trade of carpentering when a young man and had followed this occupation the greater part of the time during his residence in Clinton.

In earlier years Mr. Sriver was a great traveler, and it is said that he had visited almost every country on the globe.

Deceased was never married. He leaves surviving the following relatives: Three sisters, Mrs. M. L. RATHBURN, Mrs. Martha ADAMS and Mrs. Harriet E. SMITH, all of this city, and a brother, A. L. SRIVER, of Ulrich, Mo.

Coroner Moore summoned a jury and the verdict was "death from the excessive use of alcoholic liquors, which caused heart failure, resulting in death."

Funeral services were held from the home of Mrs. Smith, a sister of deceased, on East Main street, at 2:30 Wednesday afternoon. Interment in Woodlawn.

Rev. Hugh STACKHOUSE 

November 10, 1899
Clinton Register

Rev. Hugh STACKHOUSE, brother of S. STACKHOUSE, of Clinton, died at his home in Indianapolis, aged 62. He had been a pastor of the M. P. church since 17 years old. He was born in Kentucky Nov. 18, 1837.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Sanford STACKHOUSE 

October 1, 1909
Clinton Register

WELL-KNOWN EDUCATOR DEAD.
Sanford STACKHOUSE died at St. Mary's hospital, Decatur, Sunday September 26, at 7 p.m., of paralysis.

Prof. Stackhouse had been identified with school work nearly all his life, many years of that time having been spent in the schools of this county. Fifteen or twenty years ago, he was a prominent figure in educational circles in DeWitt county, filling the principalship of Weldon schools for 6 terms, also of Wapella, and as instructor in summer institutes.

Though large of stature, he was a very kindly man, and many a girl and boy have been moved to renewed energy by his encouraging smile. In his field of work he was a "Mr. Toil" and many a "Hugh Idle" had reason to be thankful that he felt the influence of this sturdy, honest, work-loving man.

He was 76 years of age and is survived by his wife and five children, also by six children by a former marriage. Dr. C. F. STACKHOUSE, well-known in this county, and now of Crawfordsville, Ind., being a son.

Funeral services were held at Weldon Wednesday morning. Interment was made in Weldon cemetery.

A. C. STALEY 

February 21, 1913
Clinton Register

DEATH OF DR. STALEY.

Dr. A. C. STALEY, of Chicago, formerly of Farmer City, died suddenly in Chicago Tuesday afternoon. Deceased was a cousin of Mrs. L. G. HERRICK. Dr. Staley was well known in Chicago as a chemist and physician. The body was brought to Farmer City this afternoon.

Funeral services were conducted from the M. R. church, Rev. T. H. TULL, officiating. Interment in Maple Grove cemetery.

Deceased dropped dead in his laboratory, and it was first thought heart disease was the cause, but later it was learned that several weeks ago he slipped and fell on the icy pavement, and an injury to the brain finally resulted in his sudden death. Deceased was well known in Farmer City where he spent his early years. Dr. Staley was a self-made man and will be much missed by his professional friends in Chicago.

Mrs. Charlotte STAMATS 

January 8, 1892
Clinton Public

THE HOME OF SORROW.

Mrs. Charlotte STAMATS, wife of Hiram L. STAMATS, died at her home in this city on Wednesday afternoon, after years of suffering from paralysis. She was born in Hartford, Ohio, on the 17th of February, 1827, and twenty-three years later she was married at her father's homestead in Hartford to Mr. Hiram L. Stamats. Two boys and an aged husband are how left to mourn for the friend of all friends—the wife and mother. In 1856 the family came to Illinois and settled in Texas, Township, four miles south of Clinton. A few years later Mr. Stamats bought a farm in Creek Township, and there they lived for twenty-six years, when they gave up the hard work of the farm and ten years ago came to Clinton to enjoy the rest and comfort that a life on the farm had made possible. Nine years ago Mrs. Stamats had a stroke of paralysis, which was followed by others, but six years ago the fatal one came and from that she never fully recovered. While her mind and faculties were clear and perfect for years after, yet there was always a dread that the fatal moment would come when speech and mind would fail. An invalid son was the greatest care of Mrs. Stamats' life, and her great mother heart was overflowing with love and sympathy for her afflicted boy. Yet in all her sorrow she never forgot the duties she owed to society, and whenever sickness or sorrow occurred in her neighborhood she was there to comfort and help. She was a woman of earnest religious convictions and humbly followed the teachings of her Divine Father. This afternoon the Rev. W. A. HUNTER will conduct the funeral services in the Presbyterian Church, after which her body will be buried in Woodlawn Cemetery. Had she lived till next February Mrs. Stamats would have been sixty-five years of age.

Submitted by Bob Halsey

Dr. John J. STARKEY 

June 22, 1883
Clinton Public

Dearth of Dr. John J. Starkey.

The sad, though not unexpected, news was received in this city last Monday morning that Dr. John J. STARKEY had passed from time to eternity. The cause of his death was cancers. For more than a year past, and perhaps for a longer time, the Doctor knew that it was but a matter of a few months when the insidious disease that had fastened on his system would terminate his life, but with the true courage of manhood he kept the terrible secret from his wife and family and his friends. He attended to the arduous duties of his profession till about two months ago, when he was obliged to give up his practice. Then, for the first time, did he acquaint his family with his physical condition. A few weeks ago he called a council of his medical brethren of this county to decide upon his case, and all the leading physicians went to Waynesville. An examination brought to light the fact that Dr. Starkey had no less than five distinct cancers on his body, any one of which would prove fatal. There was no hope in the surgeon's knife nor in the power of medicine. The patient sufferer faced his doom like a brave man. Yielding to the solicitations of his family, although he knew there was no balm in Gilead, the Doctor went to Louisville to the medical college which he had attended and there submitted his disease to the surgeon's knife. Operations were performed on three of the cancers, but from that time he grew worse in health and it was feared that he would not live to reach his home. However, he kept up by his strong will till he reached home, where gradually sank till death ended his sufferings on last Monday.

Dr. Starkey was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, on the 19th of June, 1840, and lacked but one day of being forty-three years old when he died. His parents moved to McLean county, in this state, and his earlier years were spent on a farm. While a student in the Wesleyan University at Bloomington the war broke out, and faithful to his country he presented his life and services to defend the flag from the blow of treason. He enlisted in the Ninety-fourth Regiment of Illinois Infantry and served faithfully and gallantly. After leaving the army he resumed his studies and then entered the Louisville Medical College, where he took the regular course of study. In 1865 he was married to Miss Jane WASHBURN, of McLean county, and in 1873 he moved to Waynesville and began the practice of his profession. From the time he began to practice till he was compelled to retire he had a very large and lucrative practice. He was the friend in health as well as the physician in sickness, and he had the love and respect of everybody in and around Waynesville, and in his death the community will suffer great loss. In politics he was an ardent Republican, and in the party councils he was a safe guide. He was a loving husband and father. His hand was always open to charity. He enjoyed the confidence of the people and of the medical fraternity. He will be missed by all. The doctor was a leading member of the Masonic fraternity, which order conducted the funeral service on last Tuesday. Several members of the order from this city went to Waynesville to attend the funeral.

Col. James W. STEVENS 

August 30, 1895
Clinton Public

Col. James W. STEVENS, until three years ago a resident of Tiffin [Ohio], died Sunday morning at his late home in Garnett, Kan., aged seventy-eight years.

The body will be brought to this city Tuesday evening for burial. The funeral will occur from the home of his brother, W. C. STEVENS, and will be under the auspices of the Masonic order of this city. The scriptural services will be conducted under the direction of Rev. D. D. BIGGER of the First Presbyterian church. The intelligence of the death of Colonel Stevens was received here among his many friends with deep sorrow, and especially by members of his old regiment, the Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

Mr. Stevens entered service in the late civil war, October 16, 1861, going out as Captain of Company H. He was promoted to Major, March 4, 1863, and on May 2, 1863, he lost an arm in the battle of Chancellorsville, Va. On May 8, 1863, he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel of his regiment, which position he held until he resigned his command, on May 25, 1864. Before his retirement, he was acting Colonel of his regiment, although he never received a commission as such. —Tiffin (O.) Tribune

J. M. Stevens was the father of Mrs. H. D. WATSON, of this place. She had been at the bedside of her father at Garnett, Kansas, for some time and has gone with the remains of her father to Tiffin, Ohio, where they will be buried. H. D. WATSON, who had been in Indiana for a few days, went from there to Ohio to attend the funeral services. Mr. Watson and wife will remain there a few days before returning to Clinton.

John B. STEVENS 

January 3, 1948
The Journal

John B. Stevens, 80, Long Time Resident of Clinton, Expires.

John B. STEVENS, 80, a retired tailor of Clinton, died at 7:45 a.m. today in the DeWitt County Nursing Home at Hallsville. He had been ill several days. He was born August 23, 1868, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, and came to the United States 72 years ago. He was married in Clinton to Mrs. Mary Ann McABOY in 1894. She preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by a step-daughter, Anna McABOY, and a step-son, Lee McABOY. Surviving are three step-sons, A. J., J. R., and Ben McABOY, all of Clinton; also a brother, George STEVENS, of Seattle, Wash.; and a sister, Mrs. Elizabeth WOODBURY, of Toledo, Ohio. He was a member of the Eagles and Odd Fellows lodges of Clinton. The body was taken to the Pullen & Boos funeral chapel where services will be at 2 p.m. Monday. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery.

Submitted by Kathy Walkup

Mrs. John B. STEVENS 

January 16, 1924
The Journal

AN EARLY COUNTY RESIDENT.
Mrs. J. B. Stevens to Illinois in a Prairie Schooner
Died Last Night After Long Illness.

Mrs. J. B. STEVENS, 68 years of age, one of the early county residents, died last night at 7 o'clock in her home, 407 North Madison street, after a lingering illness of three years, and a last illness lasting since Friday February 11, 1920, she suffered a paralytic stroke and has been an invalid since that time. Friday she suffered a second stroke and has been unconscious since that time.

She had been a resident of Illinois since she was three years of age and came here with her parents from Ohio in a prairie schooner in the same party of which the late Eason JOHNSON was a member. Her parents settled for a time in Clinton where her father, O. P. HAINES, conducted a cabinet shop, later moving to a farm south of Clinton in Texas township, where the family resided many years.

Mary Ann HAINES, daughter of O. P. and Eva HAINES, was born near Columbus, Ohio, September 18, 1855. She had two brothers, both of whom are deceased. She married A. J. McABOY in 1870 and the family lived in Forrest, Illinois.

Eight children were born to the union, three of whom are deceased, Orlando and Cora dying in infancy and Anna at the age of 21 years. The surviving children are O. J. McABOY, 411 North Monroe street; C. L. McABOY, Suis An, Calif.; J. R. McABOY, 315 North Grant Avenue; Ben McABOY, 201 West Webster street; and A. J. McABOY, 311 North Madison street. Her husband died in 1895. She remarried to John B. Stevens of Clinton in 1896. No children were born to this union. Besides the children and her husband, she is also survived by her aged mother, Mrs. Eva Haines, who is 91 years old and who resides with her grandson, A. J. McAboy, 311 North Madison street.

Mrs. Stevens was a faithful member of the Presbyterian Church and during her active life was an untiring worker in the Rebekahs, the Ladies Auxiliary to the firemen and the Court of Honor. She enjoyed the love and esteem of all her friends and neighbors and bore her enforced confinement during the last years of her life with noble fortitude.

Definite funeral arrangements will be announced tomorrow morning in The Journal.

--------------------

January 17, 1924
The Journal

Brief Mention.

Funeral for Mrs. Stevens will be at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon from the home with Dr. C. Harmon Johnson, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, officiating. Pall-bearers will be Charles GREEN, Theo HENDRIX, Joe JOHNSON, Thomas CACKLEY, Henry GRIFFIN and Harry GOWDY. Burial will be made in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Submitted by Kathy Walkup

Rev. S. H. STEVENSON 

February 24, 1899
Clinton Public

AN AGED PASTOR DIES.
Rev. S. H. Stevenson Departed This Life in Bloomington.

Dr. W. A. HUNTER attended the funeral of Rev. S. H. STEVENSON in Heyworth last Tuesday, Rev. I. A. CONELISON conducting the services. Funeral was from the home of his daughter in Bloomington, the cortege arriving in Heyworth at 2:17 p.m. Remains were interred in Heyworth cemetery. Mr. Stevenson died Saturday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Dr. C. N. NOBLE, in Bloomington, from diabetes, aged 86. He had been failing for three years, but was confined to his bed but a few days. Deceased was pastor of the Clinton and Heyworth churches, then under one charge, from 1855 to 1857, when the growth of Heyworth attracted him to the latter place, Clinton being without a pastor. He was born in North Carolina and took the academic course at Center college, Danville, Ky., and founded the Presbyterian Theological seminary there. In ’63 he accepted a call to Union Grove church, Putman county, where he served as pastor and was elected several terms county superintendent of schools. He returned to Heyworth as principal of the public schools. His final pastorate was at Perry Springs, Pike county, from which he retired in ’92. He had since lived with his children in McLean, Ill., and Bloomington. He leaves two sons—Franklin at Bozeman, Mont., and Robert M., Presbyterian pastor at Madison, Ind.—and one daughter, Mrs. Dr. NOBLE, of Bloomington.

Mrs. Kate STEWART 

February 11, 1859
Clinton Public

Departed this life, at the residence of Mr. Thomas SNELL, her brother-in-law, in this town on Thursday evening the 3d of this month, Mrs. Kate M. STEWART, relict of the late E. T. STEWART, of Decatur, Ill. Her illness was of but a few days duration, and severe, but she bore it with becoming submission. She leaves behind her an only sister, and numerous relations and sincere friends, not only in this State but in Virginia from whence she came when in her early days. They deeply mourn her loss, which is irreparable, but as the decree of God has gone forth, that from dust we came and unto dust we must return, they meekly submit.

Her languishing head is at rest,
   Its thinking and aching are o'er,
Her quiet immovable breast,
   Is heaved by affection no more.

Samuel STEWART 

September 1, 1899
Clinton Register

ANSWERED LAST ROLL CALL.
An Old Soldier and Old Resident of DeWitt County Taken Suddenly From Home and Family.

Samuel STEWART died suddenly Saturday night at 9 o'clock at his home on East Washington street, aged 65 years. He had been having chills several days, but his condition had not been alarming until a short time before his death.

Deceased was born near Bellfontaine, O., May 8, 1834 where he lived until 1855 when he came to this county on horseback, where he remained near Kenney until 1861, when he enlisted in company C, 41st Ill. Reg., and served three years in the service of his country. In 1864 he returned to this county and was married to Miss Margaret HENRY. Seven children were born to them, all of whom with their mother survive him. They are Mrs. Mary HARP, Frank, Clara, Rebecca, Josie, Jennie, and Cora. They all lived with their parents, except Mrs. Harp, whose home is Waddy, Ky. Deceased lived near Kenney until about fifteen years ago, when he moved to Kenney, and to Clinton about eight years ago which has since been his home. In 1880 he united with the Christian church at Old Union and had since lived a faithful christian. He was a member of the G. A. R. Post of this city, and about fifty of his comrades, also the W. R. C., attended the funeral.

Funeral services were held in the Christian church Tuesday at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Geo. F. Hall, of Decatur, who preached an able sermon, one that gave food for thought. There was an abundance of floral offerings, among them being the following: Harp, from the ladies employed in the Steam laundry where two daughters of the deceased are employed; anchor, proprietors of Steam laundry and Ben Harris, an employe; city employes, star and crescent, deceased having worked regularly for the city; C. E., of Christian church, lyre; G. A. R., wreath; family of deceased, red roses; pink carnations, Mrs. Henry Blome; Jessie Brown, pink and white carnations; Main Line lodge firemen of Illinois Central, bouquet, the son being a member of that lodge. The pall bearers were G. W. Parker, F. M. Phares, Jack Adams, Reuben Poff, Ham Hunt, and Matt Cline, who were members of the same company of the deceased. A very large number attended the services, both rooms of the church being filled. Interment was in Woodlawn.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

John W. STILES 

October 12, 1883
Clinton Public

Death of John W. Stiles.

News was received at Bloomington, yesterday, announcing the death of John W. STILES, formerly of Clinton. Mr. Stiles came from Bloomington to Clinton about twelve years ago and opened a jewelry store under DeWitt hall, and did an excellent business. He married a young lady living in Bloomington and for years seemed to be prosperous. Mrs. STILES developed into a vain, extravagant woman, and ultimately she was the financial ruin of her husband. Mr. Stiles suspected that his matrimonial arrangements were a little out of shape, and suddenly he left his wife in Clinton and went to California. After being separated for some time, Mr. Stiles, on account of his child, sent for his wife, and they lived together in Cambria, California. Then came rumors of her infatuation for a dentist, and finally a divorce. Poor John was a clever soul, and loved his wife and child with true manly devotion. Her fondness for dress and the admiration of the opposite sex brought sorrow and ruin to John and his child.

From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
STILES, JOHN W.    WILSON, BELLA    05/29/1872     MC LEAN

Charles STIVERS 

April 10, 1885
Clinton Public

Charles STIVERS died at the residence of James CRAWFORD, in this city, on Thursday, April 2d, aged 28 years. Charles was an honest and industrious young man and well liked by all who knew him. His funeral took place on Friday, 3d inst. D. MacARTHUR

Dora STODDARD 

August 4, 1899
Clinton Public

Drowned in Lake Weldon.

About 11 o’clock Monday night on Weldon Springs lake a small row boat capsized with Will KIRK and Miss Dora STODDARD. The young lady was drowned and her body recovered nearly four hours later. Miss Stoddard had been a resident of Clinton for the past five or six years and at the time of her death was employed in the family of John W. DAY. She came here from Ramsey, where her relatives reside. She was a distant relative of Mrs. Charles CRANG, of this city.

(See news article)

Charles V. STOKER 

October 14, 1887
Clinton Public

Charles V. Stoker Killed by Accident.

Between seven and eight o’clock last evening, as Mr. John STOKER was walking down to the Central depot with his son William, a messenger boy met him and handed him a dispatch announcing that his oldest son Charles had been fatally wounded in Springfield and that his death was hourly expected. There was no train going to Springfield at that hour, so the superintendent of the Springfield division ordered a special train to take Mrs. STOKER and her son William to that city. Before the train reached Springfield, Charles died. The history of the accident as we learn it was this: Charles STOKER in company with E. J. KNICHT, the night train dispatcher for the Central at Springfield, and Charles I. LINDSTURM were out in a grove west of Springfield shooting at a mark. While Stoker was bending over fixing the mark, Knicht was loading the gun, which was a twenty-two caliber. The gun was accidentally discharged and the ball entered Stoker’s temple and came out between his eye and nose. From the first the wound was pronounced fatal. Charles was taken to St. John’s Hospital, where he died between nine and ten o’clock, and before his mother and brother reached him.

Charles V. Stoker was born in Springfield on the 26th of March, 1854, and was in his thirty-fourth year. He was married and has a boy five years old. For several years he had been in the employ of the Illinois Central road, and by his good conduct and careful attention to his duties was promoted to the responsible position of a locomotive engineer. He was a man of excellent habits. His wife was in southwest Missouri visiting relatives, to which place a telegram was sent late last night informing her of the terrible fate of her husband. Mrs. Stoker will probably arrive in Clinton tonight on the midnight train from the south.

The body of the deceased engineer will arrive here this afternoon at 1:40. The funeral will take place on Sunday afternoon, at two o’clock. Mr. Stoker had insurance on his life in the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers.

--------------------

October 21, 1887
Clinton Public

The funeral of Charles V. STOKER, who was accidentally killed in Springfield on Thursday evening of last week, took place in this city on Sunday afternoon, in the M. E. Church. The Springfield Division of Locomotive Firemen, of which division Mr. Stoker was a member, took charge of the ceremonies, and the engineers and firemen belonging to the Illinois Central united in paying honor to the memory of their late associate. The Clinton cornet band headed the procession. When this band was first organized the deceased was a member of it, and as a mark of respect Captain GORMAN tendered their services. The funeral was one of the largest that has been in Clinton for several years. A number of beautiful floral offerings were laid upon the coffin by the firemen and the engineers. One of the saddest mourners, outside of the family circle of the deceased, was Mr. KNICHT, who was the unfortunate cause of the death of his friend. The remains of the deceased were buried in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Mrs. James W. STOKER 

October 27, 1911
Clinton Register

TO HER FINAL REST.

The remains of Mrs. J. W. STOKER, who died at her home in New York on Wednesday of last week, arrived in the city Sunday and the funeral was held from the M. E. church. Rev. G. W. Flagge officiating. Interment in Woodlawn.

The body was accompanied to Clinton by the husband, her son Leonard and wife and a sister, Miss Ruth Allen.

Harriett May, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. A. F. ALLEN, was born in Griggsville, Pike county, Ill., fifty years ago. Her marriage to William STOKER took place in Clinton May 22, 1883, and a portion of her later life was spent in this city. Twelve years ago the family located in New York, going there from Washington, D. C. Mrs. Stoker was the mother of five children, only one of whom, Leonard, the eldest, survives her. Besides the husband and son, she leaves two brothers, Edward of Ardmore, Okla., and John of Los Angeles, Cal., and two sisters, Mrs. Van Atta of Benton Harbor, Mich., and Miss Allen.

She was a member of the Royal neighbors and Pythian Sisters of Clinton and the O. E. S. of D. R. of New York City. Mrs. Stoker had been ill for the past three years, and since last July had been confined to her room.

Note: Her husband’s full name was James William Stoker.
From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
STOKER, JAMES W.    ALLEN, HATTIE M.     1883-05-22    DE WITT

John C. STOKER 

May 15, 1914
Clinton Register

DEATH OF A VETERAN.
John C. Stoker Stricken with Death at Home on South Center.

Friday evening at 9:40 o'clock, occurred the death of J. C. STOKER, at his home, 410 South Center street. He had been ill many weeks due to heart trouble and a general breakdown. He was a patient at the John Warner hospital from January 7 to March 9, when he was able to return home, but had never regained strength.

John C. Stoker was born in Rushville, Ohio, August 24, 1829. In an early day he came with his parents to Illinois and settled on a farm in Sangamon county. He went to Springfield, Illinois, where he learned the carriage and wagon making trade.

December 4, 1851, he was united in marriage to Harriett BROWN, at Mechanicsburg, Illinois, a daughter of the late Dr. Brown an old settler of Clinton. The couple resided in Springfield until 1856, when they came to Clinton, Mr. Stoker engaging in the manufacture of carriages and wagons with A. D. McHenry, and later with the late George Armstrong. He retired from this business in 1898 and on May 20 of that year he and his wife went to Washington, D. C., where he was in the employ of the government in the bureau of printing and engraving six years. They then went to New York, where their son William is located, returning to Clinton in 1908. The aged couple expected to return to the home of their son, but owing to Mrs. Stoker falling and breaking her hip, she was unable to travel.

The deceased was one of the best known and best loved men in the county. Although never going to the front when the call to arms was made on account of the ill health of his wife, John Stoker did much at home for his country. He acted as drummer boy during enlistment and served in that capacity for every call that was made during the trying times of the sixties. He was always with the soldier, and assisted in laying away all who were sent home for burial, and in the later years he continued to be one of the leaders of the silent procession to Woodlawn on Memorial Day.

Besides the aged wife who celebrated with him their 63rd wedding anniversary last December, he is survived by one son, William, who resides in New York City; two brothers, Thomas, of Buffalo, Illinois, who spent a few hours with him Friday; Adam, of Decatur; two grandchildren, and four great granddaughters. A son, Charles, died at Springfield twenty-four years ago. Mrs. Stoker has the sympathy of the entire community in the saddest hour of her life.

Note: His son’s full name was James William Stoker.

William STOKER 

August 17, 1883
Clinton Public

William STOKER, father of John STOKER of this city, died at his home in Buffalo, Ill., on the 8th of August, at the advanced age of eighty-three years. The deceased was born in the State of Maryland, Nov. 30, 1800. In early youth he moved to the State of Ohio, Fairfield county, and was married Nov. 11, 1824, to Miss Sarah MAXWELL. They came to Illinois in the summer of 1843, being among the oldest settlers of Sangamon county, having lived here a little over forty years. Mrs. STOKER died about six years ago. There were eight children born to them, viz: Alfred, John, Thomas, Adam and Henry; Mary, Elizabeth and Samantha. Three are dead: Henry, Mary and Elizabeth. Samantha, who married Anderson MONTGOMERY, is the only surviving daughter and lives in Iowa. John and his family reside at Clinton; Alfred runs a foundry and machine shop at Petersburg. Adam resides east of Decatur. Thomas resides at the old home in Buffalo. The funeral discourse was preached by Rev. W. S. CALHOUN at the M. E. Church, after which the remains were interred in the Mechanicsburg cemetery, to await the roll-call from on high.

Frank STOKES 

January 29, 1892
Clinton Public

Another Death in the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen.

Frank STOKES came from Ohio about three years ago and got a job firing on the Illinois Central road. He remained here for about half a year and then returned to Ohio. Two years ago he came back and took up his old life of a fireman, his run being from Clinton to Centralia. About three weeks ago Frank got a fall while on duty which at first he paid no attention, but one day his arm became lame and painful and he suffered severe pains in his spinal column. He took to his bed at Mrs. ZIEGLER's hotel and every day his symptoms became worse. The pain in his spinal column affected the base of the brain and at times he was delirious but hopes were entertained for his recovery. A week ago yesterday, Stokes was able to be out of bed and around the house, and when W. B. ARGO's funeral procession was passing the Ziegler House he stood out on the porch. That evening he became worse, and only for brief intervals was he conscious from that night till the hour of his death on Monday evening. Frank Stokes' brother is a foreman in one of the departments out at the Central machine shops. His father lives on one of the islands in Put-in-Bay, near Sandusky, Ohio. His father arrived in Clinton on Tuesday afternoon, and on Wednesday morning the body of Frank Stokes was borne back to his old home in Ohio, accompanied by Harry MOFFETT, Jack THOMAS, Clint SWARTSWOOD and Al SPOONER, all members of Main Line Lodge of Locomotive Firemen of this city, with which organization the dead fireman was honorably connected.

Frank Stokes was twenty-five years old, a native of Ohio, and was unmarried. He was a man of correct habits, careful and attentive to duty, and had the respect of his fellow railway men. During his sickness the officers and members of Main Line Lodge gave him the best of care, having nurses with him day and night. The spirit of fraternity among railroad men smooths the pillow of many a poor fellow who is far from home and the care of loving friends when sickness or accident overtakes him. This is the second death in Main Line Lodge within a week.

STOLLE (child) 

January 25, 1895
Clinton Public

Mrs. STOLLE's son, between eight and nine years old, died last Saturday night. About a month ago the boy complained of a pain in the side, which gathered into an abscess and resulted in death. The remains were taken to Mrs. Stolle's old home, in the southern part of the State, for interment.

Capt. David C. STONE 

February 3, 1882
Clinton Public

Died, January 20th, 1882, at his residence in DeWitt township, Capt. D. C. STONE, aged 55 years, 5 months and 25 days. Capt. Stone was a native of Louisiana. His father died when he was two months old, and at the age of ten he was left without either father or mother. His elder brother took him to New Jersey to educate him where he grew into manhood. Having acquired a good education, and being of a mathematical turn of mind, he was preparing to go to West Point, but through the opposing influence of certain parties, he failed to get the appointment. Somewhat chagrined at this failure, he joined a military company and went on an expedition to Cuba, where he remained a short time and came to Louisville, Ky., where he became one of the best practical surveyors in that region of the country. In 1849 he went to California to seek his fortune, but owing to ill health returned the following year and purchased about seven hundred acres of land in DeWitt county, which place he has since regarded as his home. A short time prior to the breaking out of the rebellion he went again to Louisville, Ky., where he was commissioned Captain of a battery and at the commencement of hostilities was ordered to report to a Rebel General. He refused to comply with this order and disbanded the company, for which he was court-martialed. Immediately after this he organized a Union battery and enlisted under the flag of this country, paying his command for one month’s service out of his own pocket, for which he was never compensated. Capt. Stone’s battery was highly complimented for efficient service in numerous engagements.

At the close of the war he returned to DeWitt county and settled upon his farm, and in 1867 married the widow WILDMORE, with whom he was blessed with three sprightly boys and one lovely daughter, who, with a devoted wife, are left to mourn their loss. Capt. Stone was a kind husband and an indulgent father, always at home with his family, except when urgent business called him away. He was social, fluent in his conversation, had a fund of information from which to draw, and seemed to take great delight in relating incidents of the war. He was a Republican in politics, and, although competent to fill almost any official position, never aspired to official honors, and consequently never held any office.

From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
STONE, DAVID C.    WILDMAN, SARAH J. MRS.     12/18/1867    OGLE

Elizabeth (WATT) STONE 

April 12, 1895
Clinton Public

Mrs. Elizabeth STONE died at her home in Westfield, Ill., on Wednesday evening of last week, and on Friday her remains were brought to the village of DeWitt and buried in the cemetery. Mrs. Stone was the widow of Taylor STONE, who died about one year ago. She was the sister of the late George WATT, and was born in DeWitt on the 27th of April, 1851. She leaves two children. Mrs. Stone was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Isaac N. STONE 

December 24, 1918
Clinton Daily Public

FUNERAL OF LATE ISAAC N. STONE IS HELD TODAY.
Former Clinton Resident, Dies Suddenly in Bloomington—
Born Here.

The funeral of the late Isaac Newton STONE, aged 63, former DeWitt county resident who died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E. R. ROSS at Bloomington, and whose body arrived here this morning, was held shortly before noon today, the cortege going directly from the train to the Rose Hill cemetery at Lane for interment. Deceased was well known here and has many relatives in this community. He is a cousin of Squire A. E. STONE of this city. His death was sudden and unexpected. Heart trouble was the cause of his demise.

Deceased was born in Nixon township on Nov. 13, 1854. In 1872 he was married to Miss Malissa WHEELER. She died in August 1912. Three children survive and are Edward, of Lane, Mrs. Clara GIRARD, of Pana, and Mrs. F. R. ROSS, of Bloomington. A stepson, George WHEELER, also survives. A brother John resides in Clinton. Several brothers and sisters also survive. Rev. A. M. Wells, of this city, officiated at the services this morning.

Mrs. Isaac N. STONE 

August 9, 1912
Clinton Register

LANE WOMAN DIES.

Mrs. Melissa STONE, wife of I. N. STONE, died Thursday morning at 3 o'clock at her home in Lane, congestion of the brain causing death. Funeral services were held at the Christian church in Lane at 2:30 this afternoon. Interment in the Rose cemetery.

Deceased was born in this county September 14, 1850, and resided most of her life here. She was married August 11, 1872, to I. N. Stone. Four children, three of whom survive: Edward STONE, at home; Clara GIRARD, of Pana; Ona ROSS, of Midland City. She is also survived by five sisters and three brothers-Sarah DAVENPORT, of Weldon; Mary E. DAY, of Weldon; and Martha EDWARDS, of Lane; Joseph HENSON, of Oklahoma; Edward HENSON, of Lincoln, Nebraska; and John HENSON, of Missouri.

James Preston STONE 

June 16, 1911
Clinton Register

J. P. STONE was born in Tennessee Nov. 16, 1833, died June 1, 1911, aged 77 yrs., 6 mos. And 24 days. Was united in marriage with Ellen McGEE, May 15, 1863. Twelve children were born to this union, 3 dying in infancy. The living are: R. A. and Frank, of Shelbyville; A. E., of Clinton; Floyd, of Mr. Pulaski; Mrs. F. F. WOODWARD, Mrs. Arthur SHAW, and Mrs. Lou LOWE, of Clinton; and Lela, at home.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Death Index, Pre-1916:
STONE, JAMES PRESTON   1911-06-10   LANE    DE WITT

Lelia Maude STONE 

January 17, 1913
Clinton Register

DIED AFTER A SHORT ILLNESS.

Lelia Maude STONE died at the home of Mrs. Mary DAVENPORT at 2:30 p.m. last Friday. Deceased was aged 21 years. She was taken ill on Thursday and the end came on Friday as above stated. Apoplexy is given as the cause of death. Deceased was a daughter of J. P. and Ellen STONE, of Lane, Ill. Her father died about two years ago. She was 21 years old October 21, last. She joined the Christian church at Lane in 1907 and lived up to the creed of this denomination. Besides her mother, deceased is survived by four brothers and four sisters: R. A. and Frank, of Shelbyville, Ill.; A. E. STONE, of Clinton; and Floyd C., of Springfield. The sisters are Alta WOODWARD and Noga SHAW, of Lane; Mary L. LOWE, of Clinton; and Carrie McKNIGHT, of Melvin, Ill. The mother, four sisters and brother, A. E. Stone, were at the bedside when death came. Funeral services were held in Lane at the Christian church at 2 p.m. Sunday, Rev. J. F. Rosborough officiating. Interment in Rose cemetery.

William E. STONE 

January 17, 1908
Clinton Register

AN OLD RESIDENT PASSES AWAY.
One of Creek Township's Well-known Citizens Died at His Home Near Lane.

William STONE died Saturday afternoon at his home near Lane after an illness of several days.

William E. Stone was born in Jefferson county, Tenn., Nov. 15, 1831. In 1848 he was married to Mrs. Anna MOWERY, who died in 1867. The next year the father with his seven children came to Illinois, locating on a farm near Lane, where he had since lived. In 1869 he was married to Miss Minerva PENNINGTON. To them three children were born.

Besides the widow the following children survive him: John A., of Bement; James and Mrs. COPPENBARGER, of Dix; Mrs. Lucinda WARD, of Mansfield; Charles O., of Paxton; Lawrence E., of Clinton; and Nathan, of LeRoy. His life had been one of honesty and uprightness and he was respected by all who knew him. By his death Creek township lost a good citizen.

Funeral services were held in the Christian church in Lane Monday at 1:30, conducted by Rev. J. W. Reynolds, of Clinton. Burial in the Rose cemetery.

(See related obituary)

Cora Bell STOREY 

September 26, 1884
Clinton Public

Cora Bell, the youngest daughter of W. D. and Martha STOREY, died suddenly on Wednesday morning, after an illness of only twenty-four hours. The cause of her death was congestion of the brain.

Henry STOREY 

June 24, 1904
Paper Unknown

DEATH OF HENRY STOREY.

Two weeks ago it was announced that Henry STOREY had been sent to the Union Printers Home at Colorado Springs from Ottawa, where he had been working about a year for G. A. CROWDEN. Wednesday word came he had died Tuesday. Henry STOREY was born in Nixon township Feb. 27, 1860. When three years old his parents moved to Clinton, which was his home until he went to Georgia in 1882 with W.L. GLESSNER for whom he had worked at the Register. He married Mr. GLESSNER'S daughter and at Americus, Ga., operated a newspaper. A few years ago he returned to Illinois and worked at his trade in Bloomington and Clinton until he went to Ottawa. He was a union printer for years and when Clinton Typographical Union was organized two years ago he became one of its charter members. He was a good printer and easily secured work and was well liked by his fellow workman. Besides his father he is survived by two brothers and two sisters: William of Clinton, J. N. of Iola, Kansas, Mrs. SCOTT of Bloomington, and Mrs. EDWARDS of Springfield. He was buried in Colorado Springs.

Submitted by Unknown

Jeff STOREY 

February 11, 1887
Clinton Public

Mr. Jeff STOREY died Thursday night [Feb. 3] and was buried at Heyworth Saturday [Feb. 5]. Rev. PRICE preached his funeral. Comrade STOREY desires us to say to the friends that he returns his thanks to all who assisted in the burial and care of his son.

William H. STOREY 

September 2, 1904
Clinton Register

ALMOST A NONAGENARIAN.
Father of W. D. Storey Dies at the Home of His Daughter in Springfield.

W. H. STOREY died Aug. 25 at the home of his daughter, Mrs. David EDWARDS, in Springfield, aged 89 years, 4 months and 9 days. William H. Storey was born in Kentucky April 16, 1816. His parents came to Illinois a year later. He was married Aug. 30, 1835, his wife preceded him in death nearly a year. They came to DeWitt county in 1851 and remained here until about 8 years ago when they moved to Bloomington. Since the death of his wife he had lived most of the time in Springfield. The children who survive their parents are W. D. STOREY, of Clinton; Mrs. M. C. STOREY, of Bloomington; J. STOREY, Iola, Kansas; Mrs. EDWARDS; a son, Harry, died recently in Colorado. He was a member of the Baptist church. The remains were brought to Clinton Saturday morning, and funeral services held at the home of W. Storey in the afternoon, conducted by Rev. E. A. GILLILAND. Burial in Woodlawn.

Emory A. STORRS 

September 18, 1885
Clinton Public

This brilliant orator and versatile genius was found dead in his bed last Saturday morning. He has for many years received both the admiration and the pity of the people of this country. The versatility of his oratorical genius was great and, barring Richard Brinsly SHERIDAN, without a parallel. There are men living more profound in debate and in forensic argument, there are others more polished and finished in the fine art of oratory, but no living man could equal him in impromptu address. His wit was irresistible, his repartee was electric, his ridicule was most severe. Then, too, he could touch all the keys of the human heart at will. His audience at his pleasure would laugh or weep. He recognized his great powers and took pride in playing upon the feelings of his listeners. While he seemed to possess all the oratory and wit of Sheridan, he also possessed his vices and profligacy. In fact, Storrs cannot be better described than by pointing to R. B. Sheidan. Over such untimely wrecks of genius we can but shed the tear of sadness. If Emory A. Storrs had cultivated his moral nature one-half as much as he cultivated his intellect, he would have been one of the earth's great benefactors. While he was wanting in honesty and morality, he possessed many good qualities. He was generous to a fault. He would give to the poor and entertain his friends superbly, but would not pay an honest debt. He was always loyal to political principle and his political speeches are unequaled as campaign oratory. We should, however, read the record of every human life with charity. "What's done we partly may compute, we know not what's resisted."

Mrs. William STORY 

February 3, 1899
Clinton Public

Died Near Waynesville.

Mrs. Wm. STORY died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. E. L. LOCOM, 1½ miles northeast of Waynesville, on Sunday, aged 60 years, of grippe, complicated with pneumonia. Deceased was born in Ohio and was the daughter of Joel and Ellen PHARES. In 1845 the family moved to Illinois and settled near Waynesville. Besides her husband and five children she leaves an aged mother, Mrs. Ellen Phares, near Breckenridge, Mo., and one sister and two brothers, James PHARES and Mrs. Melessa STUBBLEFIELD, of Breckenridge, and Rile PHARES, of Kansas. She was buried at Fairview cemetery on Tuesday at 1 p.m.

Mrs. Jane LEEDS STOUT 

April 1, 1887
Clinton Public

Death of Mother Stout.

Last Monday morning, at the advanced age of eighty-six years and twenty-four days, Mrs. Jane STOUT ended her earthly existence and her soul passed to the world beyond. For more than seventy-one years she had been making preparation, by a consistent Christian life, so that whatever happiness is in store for the faithful soul is reasonably sure to be hers. Mrs. Stout was born in the State of New Jersey on the 4th of March, 1801. When but two years old, her parents moved to Ohio, and there she lived till 1822 and was married to Peter LEEDS. In 1840 Mr. Leeds brought his family to Illinois, where they heroically battled with the hardships of pioneer life. She was married a second time to Jesse STOUT in 1856, who died in 1874. She was the mother of four children, two of whom survive her.

Garrett STOUTENBOROUGH 

July 1910
Paper Unknown

No history would be complete if the name of Garrett STOUTENBOROUGH did not appear in it. Not only because the family which he was the head is an old and honored one, but because of the individuality of the man that has led his neighbors to say that he was a man among men. Of his many fine traits of character none shone brighter than that which manifested itself in his treatment of his family. Accumulating over eleven hundred acres of the finest farming land in DeWitt and Macon counties, he brought it all to a high state of cultivation. Then, having reached the age when his labors should cease and at a time when he could enjoy a well earned rest, he divided his property among his children, retaining merely a nominal rental of a few dollars an acre from each, to insure his comfort during his remaining days, an unnecessary arrangement in view of the fact that any of his children would have taken great delight in caring for him in his last years.

Mr. Stoutenborough came from an old and honored New Jersey family, his father, John STOUTENBOROUGH, of Monmouth county, New Jersey. His mother, Jane (SCHENK) Stoutenborough, was the daughter of Garrett and Jane SCHENK, who were also from New Jersey. John and Jane Stoutenborough were married and reared their family in Butler county, Ohio. They had nine children: Jane, the wife of William VAIL, of Warren county, Ohio; Catherine, who became the wife of Nelson LONG, both dying in Maroa, Illinois, where they removed shortly after their marriage; Garrett; Henry, who died in Franklin county, Ohio; John who died in Maroa, Macon county, Illinois; Anthony, of Maroa, Illinois; Daniel, who died in Ohio; William H., who at present is living in Maroa, Illinois; and Schenk S., who lives in Franklin county, Ohio.

Garrett Stoutenborough was born September 16, 1824, and spent his youth on his father's farm, where he received his early training in the pursuit which later in life won such a valuable estate. At the age of twenty-nine years he came to DeWitt county and bought the farm which is now the Stoutenborough homestead. It consisted of one hundred and sixty acres of raw prairie land, a little of which has been broken out.

Those were primitive times when Garrett Stoutenborough started west. He used a two-horse spring wagon to carry himself and a friend with whom he prospected the country a year before settling there. The nearest town was Clinton, then a struggling village of some dozen houses and a few stores. In bringing his family across the rolling prairie he used a great prairie schooner then so commonly used throughout the west. He had married in Ohio and there three young children to make the trip with he and his wife. Arriving at their new home in De Witt county, the couple set about to make it as comfortable as the one they had left. This they succeeded in doing and their frame house was one of the best in the entire county, while the farm was perhaps the finest plot to be seen for miles around.

Mr. Stoutenborough was married in February, 1844, to Margaret J. HANKINSON, a daughter of James and Sallie (CHEESEMAN) HANKINSON, of Butler county, Ohio, the family originally having come New Jersey. She was the youngest of a family of five, her brothers and sisters being: Debby Ann, who married Peter DEARDUFF and died in Ohio; Lydia who first married John SCHENK and, after his death in Maroa, Robert PARKER, living at the time of her death in Maroa, Illinois; Ellen, who was the wife of Henry BUTT and died in Ohio; and Rachel, the wife of James PARKER, of Maroa, now deceased.

Following the death of his wife, which occurred July 22, 1905, Mr. Stoutenborough took up residence with his children, to whom, as before stated, he had deeded his property. To each of the six children he gave a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres. This division of his estate was made in 1904. He retained about one hundred and sixty acres of land in Nebraska and had property in other counties of this state.

The six children of Mr. and Mrs. Stoutenborough are all residents of Illinois save one. Sarah J., the wife of James A. FRUIT, of Tunbridge township, is the mother of three children: Garrett; Harry, who married Mrs. KEMP and lives near Kenny; and Rose.

Mary E. is the wife of W.E. SCHOBY of Tunbridge township, who lives but a short [distance] from the homestead, and they have three children: Margaret, the wife of Harry HALL, of Tunbridge township; Eldora and Charles.

James H., of Maroa, Illinois, married Miss Ella BARID, of Maroa, and has one living child: Frank B. who married Ethel GRADY and they have a daughter, Mildred.

John L. married Miss Ella MILLER of Hallsville and they live in Macon Co., Illinois. They had six children: Ralph, who died aged eight years; Garrett E. and William Earl, twins; Fanny, Helen, and Robert.

William B. married Miss Hattie MILLER of Hallsville and lives in Oklahoma City. They have four children: Maud, the wife of a Mr. ALLEN, of Des Moines, Iowa, and the mother of three children. Raymond and Margaret, both living with their parents in Maroa, Illinois; and Elva, of Decatur, Illinois.

Frank, the owner of a part of the old homestead, was married to Miss Emma MOORE, a daughter of Franklin M. and Mary Jane MOORE, of De Witt county, Illinois. On her paternal side she is descended from Mason E. and Margaret {Adams} MOORE, who were Virginians, and their son Franklin was also born in the Old Dominion. Mrs. Frank Stoutenborough is the third child in a family of eleven children. Her brothers and sisters are: Mason E. of Decatur, Illinois; Minnie C, the wife of Joseph EBLE, of Sac City, Iowa; Olive M. who died at her parents home in Texas township; Charles H., of St. Paul, Minnesota; Lulu, the wife of W. B. HUTCHINSON, of Maroa, Illinois; Joseph M., of Maroa, Illinois; Nellie A., the wife of J. E. PARKER, of Brookings, South Dakota; Townsend W., of Eldorado, Kansas; Fred, of Burlington, Iowa; and Fred, who died in infancy. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Stoutenborough are: Roy M., who died in infancy; Hughey, who married Alvina ZELLE and lives Tunbridge township; Fred G., C. Carl; and Lloyd. Frank Stoutenborough is a member of Henderson Lodge, No. 280, A. F. & A. M., of Kenny, and his family are members of the Christian church of that place. In the conduct of the farm which he now operates he has proven that he is a worthy successor to his father, who was regarded as one of the most capable farmers and able business men of his part of the county. After a useful and well spent life, Garrett Stoutenborough passed away on the 9th of July 1910, honored and respected by all who knew him.

Note: The Stoutenborough name is still associated with places of business in Clinton, De Witt County, Illinois. There is an insurance company that carries the name and others as well, as late as 2002.

Submitted by Mary Vanderheydt

--------------------

July 15, 1910
Clinton Register

Garrett STOUTENBOROUGH, a pioneer resident of DeWitt county, died Saturday evening at the home of his son, James H. STOUTENBOROUGH, at Maroa, at the age of 85 years. The deceased was born in Ohio, where he grew to manhood. In 1858, with his family, he located in DeWitt county near Kenney, where he resided until 1885. He located in Maroa in that year. He was married to Miss Margaret HANKINSON, whose death occurred in 1905.

There are six children living, as follows: James H., John L., Frank, William B., Mrs. W. E. SCHOBY and Mrs. James FRUIT, all residents of DeWitt and Macon counties with the exception of William B., who lives in Missouri.

Mr. Stoutenborough was a member of the Methodist church and had long been an influential and well known citizen. He divided his real estate holdings among his children several years ago, giving each a quarter section of Illinois land, besides reserving a fortune for himself.

Anna STRAIN 

December 10, 1909
Clinton Register

For several weeks Miss Anna STRAIN had been confined to her bed with consumption at the home of her mother, Mrs. N. J. STRAIN, on North Madison street, and suffered much. About 9:30 o'clock Sunday night she passed away, aged forty years. Deceased was born in Clinton, and it had always been her home. For some time she was employed in Chicago, and came home a few months ago on account of failing health. She had many friends who sympathize with the family in the loss of a kind daughter and loving sister. Her father, Isaac STRAIN, died about twenty years ago. Besides her mother she is survived by the following brothers and sisters: Adda, of Chicago; Mrs. Elmer CREE, of Joliet; Harry; Fred and William of Clinton. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 10 o'clock at the residence, conducted by Rev. Fulton. Burial in Woodlawn cemetery.

Isaac H. STRAIN 

March 19, 1886
Clinton Public

MUSTERED OUT.

Isaac H. STRAIN, a veteran of the Mexican War, died at his home in this city, on Monday, the 16th inst., aged fifty-nine years and eleven months. For some days prior to his death he suffered from a severe cold which culminated in congestion of the lungs. He was around the streets on Saturday last. That night he became worse, and by Sunday morning his physician could see no hopes of his getting better. He leaves a wife and seven children, the youngest of the children being a babe only three weeks old.

Away back in 1842 Isaac Strain, then a young man, came to this county and worked at the blacksmith trade in this city. For a time he lived in Waynesville, following the same occupation. At the outbreak of the Mexican War in 1846 Isaac Strain enlisted in Co. F, Fourth Illinois Infantry, and on the 18th of July was mustered into the service of the United States for one year. Co. F was organized in this county and was commanded by Captain Daniel NEWCOMBE, and was attached to the Fourth Regiment, commanded by Colonel BAKER. Of this company only five now live in this county—Benjamin HOWARD, Thomas HARP, W. LOWRY, William J. HARP and Elias BROCK. This regiment participated in several engagements. In June, 1847, the regiment was mustered out. During its service the men suffered terribly from disease. Nearly all of the men returned home emaciated, and to the day of his death Isaac Strain suffered from chronic diarrhea contracted during the year he served in Mexico. In 1860 he was granted a pension of $8 a month, which he continued to draw during life. The last quarter's pension arrived after his death. This pension will probably be continued to his family.

After returning from Mexico, Isaac Strain lived in Waynesville till the California fever broke out. With a party of men from this county he made the overland trip to California, where in the course of two years he managed to accumulate a couple of thousand dollars. He then came back to Clinton and engaged in the stock business, and for a number of years was quite successful. Along in 1865 he was estimated to be worth between $30,000 and $40,000. He seemed to prosper in business till he formed a partnership with Riley V. OWEN. After that the tide turned. The partnership was disastrous to Mr. Strain. Owens decamped with a large amount of money, for he had sold a lot of cattle and Mr. Stain had to make good the deficit. The last few years of his life he was not a successful trader, and the money he made in his younger days filtered out till nothing was left. He owned a farm in Kansas, which he sold to Simpson HARP, and besides owned an interest in a farm in this county which he also sold. This money he lost in cattle speculations. Some three or four years ago the firm of Strain & Nagely suffered heavy losses, to cover which he was compelled to mortgage his home in this city. This property is mortgaged for nearly its full value, so the probabilities are that Mrs. STRAIN will be left almost penniless, with a large family of small children. Isaac Strain was industrious in business but failed in his judgment. He was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon, part of the pall bearers being his old comrades in the Mexican War.

Rebecca (ARNOLD) EVANS BOWLES HENRY ELLINGTON STRONG 

January 1917
Nebraska Paper

(cut off)—Funeral service was held from the home Tuesday afternoon at 1 o'clock, conducted by her stepson, Evangelist HENRY, of Norcatur, Kas., assisted by Dr. Kircher of the Presbyterian church, there being a large attendance of old neighbors and friends. Interment was had in the Wood River cemetery. Jos. Ross, Peter Burmood, Geo. Fredericks, C. E. Towne, E. Kunz and James McFarland, all old soldiers, acting as pallbearers. Rebecca ARNOLD was born in Illinois Dec. 20, 1831, where she grew to womanhood and where on March 3 she was married to Lemuel EVANS. Of this union, three sons were born, one dying in infancy and two surviving, Thomas A., of Wood River, and John A., of Texico, New Mexico. The husband died in 1856. In 1863 deceased was married to Wm. J. Henry, who died Dec. 16, 1871. Evangelist A. W. Henry was a son of this husband and was at her bedside in her hour of dissolution. Mrs. STRONG came to Wood River, Nebr., in 1888 and lived on a farm for about five years, when she removed to town where she ever after resided. In 1892 deceased was joined in marriage to A. A. STRONG, who passed away Jan. 19, 1895. Since that time her son Thomas has always made his home with her. She is survived by six grandchildren and ten great grandchildren, also by a nephew, Henry ROBINSON, of Wood River. Some sixty-two years ago Mrs. Strong united with the Christian church in Illinois and up to the time of her death was ever a devoted follower of her Savior. "Grandma Strong," as she was familiarly known for many years past, was a very loveable old lady and leaves a host of friends who are glad to honor her—(cut off)

Note: Rebecca's marriages:
EVANS, LEMUEL    ARNOLD, REBECCA    BEF. 1848    WISCONSIN
BOWLES, WALTERS B.    EVANS, REBECCA    02/16/1862    LOGAN (ILLINOIS)
HENRY, WILLIAM J.    BOWLES, REBECCA    11/19/1863    LOGAN (ILLINOIS)
ELLINGTON, MICHAEL    HENRY, REBECCA    12/31/1882    DE WITT (ILLINOIS)
STRONG, ADLEY A.    ELLINGTON, REBECCA    12/12/1892    NEBRASKA

Mrs. W. B. STROUD, Jr. 

March 14, 1890
Clinton Public

Mrs. STROUD, wife of W. B. STROUD, Jr., a prominent farmer who resides near Atlanta, had been seriously ill with la grippe, but was thought to have recovered. About 2 A.M., March 7, she was taken violently ill from goiter or enlargement of the throat, and died in great agony at 1 A.M. Mr. Stroud is the secretary of the Atlanta Union Agricultural Society.

Kate (FOLEY) STUBBLEFIELD 

June 1, 1900
Clinton Register

Mrs. M. H. STUBBLEFIELD had been suffering from cancer, and a doctor came from Chicago Saturday morning to perform an operation. The time of the work was from 9 a.m. til noon, and the patient died at 7 o'clock that evening, aged 55. Deceased's maiden name was Kate FOLEY. She was married to M. H. Stubblefield about 30 years ago. Her husband and three children, Mrs. Chas. SCOTT, Mrs. LITSENBERGER and Walter, one sister, Miss Lizzie FOLEY, two brothers, Nicholas and Isaac FOLEY, survive her. Funeral services were held at the residence in Harp township Tuesday at 10 o'clock, conducted by Rev. BOLTON. Interment in Woodlawn cemetery.

Lydia (TURNER) STULTS 

July 30, 1886
Clinton Public

Lydia Ann STULTS was born to Solomon and Rachel TURNER, March 11, 1824, in Rushville, Ohio, who were members of the M. E. Church and trained her in the faith of the gospel. She united with the church early in life. Married to Jacob STULTS, of her native town, January 21, 1849. To them were born nine children, seven of whom are living, all of them members of church. Three of her sons are teachers, Allen near Chicago, Benjamin at Weldon, Stephen near Weldon. They moved to Cumberland county, Illinois, where they lived four years, then removed to Piatt county, the place of their late residence, in Goose Creek township, where they spent their remaining days. Mother Stults was a timid woman, was not demonstrative in her religious life, but a devoted Christian, mother and companion. She gave her life to her family and urged them to attend church and Sabbath-school. Since her husband's death, October 5, 1879, she has mourned her loss, which affected her health, being a sufferer from asthma for some years not being able to attend church. She took cold, followed by pneumonia, and died in four days, July 20, 1886, and now rests from her labors. Funeral at M. E. Church, DeLand, the 21st. —J. A. Burks.

Florence SULLIVAN, Sr. 

January 31, 1896
Clinton Public

Florence SULLIVAN, Sr., an honored resident of this county, died at New Orleans Monday, January 27th, aged fifty-eight years. He was born in county Kerny, Ire., in 1838, and when a young man eighteen years old, left the soil of his native land and came to America, remaining in New York until 1860, when he moved to Illinois. He was married at LaPort, Ind., in 1859. Nine children have blessed their home, six boys—John H., Daniel F., Edward T., M. T., F. J. and C. J.—and three girls—Mary, Maggie and Hannah. All of these are grown to maturity, and still living, filling various useful vocations in life.

For sixteen years deceased was in the employ of the Illinois Central in Wapella, after which they moved onto a farm in Texas and Wilson townships, moving to Clinton four years ago, where Mrs. SULLIVAN now resides. Mr. Sullivan had gone south in hopes of building up his health, but the asthma had too strong a hold on him, finally proving fatal. His sons Daniel and M. T. accompanied the remains to Clinton. Funeral services will be held in St. John's church Thursday, by Father M. A. DOOLING, at 10 a.m. Remains will be buried in Woodlawn cemetery.

Mrs. Florence SULLIVAN, Sr. 

January 17, 1913
Clinton Register

DEATH OF MRS. SULLIVAN.

Mrs. Katherine SULLIVAN died at her home 602 East Webster street. Her demise occurred on Sunday at 2:05 o'clock. For the past five years she has been afflicted with malignant cancer and about eighteen months ago she sent to Chicago where she submitted to an operation for the trouble. She obtained temporary relief but this lasted for only four months. Among the requests was that her six sons would act as her pallbearers.

Catherine DOWNEY was born March 17, 1837, in Kenmare, county Kerry, Ireland, and when but five years of age she, with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Morris DOWNEY, came to this country, settling in Boston. Both the father and mother were laid to rest in Boston before Mrs. Sullivan became of the age of ten years. She was united in marriage in LaPorte, Ind., January 23, 1860, to Florence SULLIVAN. The couple removed to Wapella the same year, where they resided eighteen years, when they removed to a farm in Wilson township. The deceased had been a resident of this city for twenty years, during which time she resided at 602 East Webster street.

She was the mother of nine children: John H., E. T. and M. T., of Chicago; F. J. and C. J., of Freeport; and D. F., of Clinton. The daughters are Mrs. J. H. BALL, of this city, and Miss Margaret, of Bloomington.

Mrs. Sullivan was a life-long member of the Catholic church and the funeral services were held from that church in this city on Tuesday morning at 10 o'clock. Father J. W. Cummings officiated and interment was in Woodlawn cemetery.

Harry H. SUMMERS, Jr. 

December 29, 1899
Clinton Register

The funeral of Harry SUMMERS, Jr., was held from his late residence on Wednesday at 10 o'clock a.m., Rev. A. H. WIDNEY in charge. A large concourse of sympathizing friends was in attendance, and the sad circumstances surrounding his death seemed to cast a shadow of sorrow over all present.

(See news article)

Mrs. Sarah A. SUMMERS 

February 11, 1887
Clinton Public

Died at her residence near Rock Creek, Monday, the 7th inst., Mrs. Sarah A. SUMMERS, aged 64 years. The funeral services were conducted at Rock Creek Tuesday, the 8th at 11 a.m., by J. C. BAKER, after which the remains were laid to rest in the cemetery adjoining. The deceased was respected and loved by all who knew her. She leaves a husband and three grown sons to mourn the loss of a kind and affectionate wife and mother.

James SUMMERVILLE 

January 5, 1900
Clinton Register

CLINTON CITIZEN DEAD.
James Summerville Died at His Home in This City.—Funeral held Monday.

James SUMMERVILLE died at his home on North Jackson street Sunday, aged 67 years, 4 months and 15 days, after an illness of several weeks. He was born in Ireland Aug. 16, 1832, and his parents came to this country when he was 12 years old. After a few years he came from New York City to this county and worked in the Illinois Central shops, then located at Wapella. He was married in 1863 and began farming near Wapella. He prospered and owned over 300 acres of land when he died. His good wife and three children survive him. John and William live near Wapella and Margaret lived with her parents. He was honorable and a good citizen. He had lived in Clinton about five years.

Funeral services were held Monday at 2 o'clock conducted by Rev. E. M. McMillen, a Presbyterian minister of Adrian, Mich. Interment was in Woodlawn cemetery.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Joseph SUMNERS, Jr. 

April 1, 1885
Wright County Monitor
Clarion, IA

SUDDEN DEATH.

On Thursday morning, March 26, 1885, "Uncle Joe" SUMNERS arose in usual health, but a couple of hours after, was taken with a severe pain in the side. A physician was summoned and all possible done to alleviate his sufferings, (which are supposed to have been caused by a ruptured blood vessel) but without avail and at midnight the death summons came. The remains were taken to Midland City, IL the following day for burial by the side of his wife. His son, John SUMNERS, going in charge. "Uncle Joe" as he is familiarly called, was one of Nature's noblemen: honorable in all his transactions, quiet in his demeanor with a pleasant word for all with whom he came in contact—none knew but to reverence and respect him. He had passed the three score years and ten allotted to man and after a useful life has gone to test the realities of the great unknown. Peace to his ashes.

Submitted by Lois Fullington

--------------------

April 10, 1885
Clinton Public

Midland City:—Just a little over a week ago the corpse of Father Sumners was brought back here from Iowa, where he moved only two weeks ago. Father Sumners was 76 years of age and had been a member of the C. P. Church over 40 years of that time. The funeral discourse was preached by Rev. CHASE, of Lincoln.

Note: Joseph Sumners, Jr.'s wife was Kezia (Jordan) Sumners.

Submitted by Lois Fullington

Mrs. Elizabeth SURFIS 

August 12, 1881
Clinton Register

Mrs. Elizabeth SURFIS died last Wednesday morning, Aug. 10. Her funeral took place yesterday afternoon at the residence of C. H. McCUDDY, two and half miles southeast of the city.

Flora SUTTON 

March 14, 1879
Clinton Public

Died, of pneumonia, on Saturday morning, the 8th inst., Flora, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. P. SUTTON. The bereaved parents have the sympathies of the community.

George R. SUTTON 

September 26, 1913
Clinton Register

CLINTON CITIZEN DIES SUDDENLY.
Was on the Streets Yesterday.
Was Well-Known Retired Farmer, Who Had Lived in DeWitt County Nearly All His Life.

Today we are in life. Tomorrow we are in death. The hand extended in friendship yesterday may be the hand of sympathy today. Words of hope and cheer of a few hours ago may be changed to words of sadness and sorrow of the present. We may never have the privilege of again speaking to those whom we greet today.

Such is the thought that came to the friends of Geo. R. SUTTON this morning. Yesterday he was about the streets in his usual health meeting and greeting friends and transacting business. He returned home and partook of his evening meal. He talked with his wife during the evening and when time for retiring came, made no complaint of not feeling well. There was no thought of the sorrow that morning would bring to the home that began with their marriage forty years ago. But alas, how suddenly mysterious are sometimes the visits of death.

About 6:30 this morning Mrs. SUTTON was awakened by her husband turning in bed and breathing heavily. She spoke to him, but received no answer. She hastened to telephone a doctor, who soon arrived, but death had come to him before the arrival of the physician.

George R. Sutton was born in Logan county, Ohio, Sept. 21, 1848. His parents, Peter and Nancy SUTTON, moved to Harp township, DeWitt county, in 1856, and of a family of eight children is the last, except three to pass away.

Deceased was married to Miss Lucy TORBERT, Dec. 4, 1873, and they lived on a farm in that township until ten years ago when he bought property at 1035 E. Main street, which has since been his home.

Of the six children born to them, one died in infancy. Those living are Thos. D., Gettysburg, S. D.; Chas. R., Grove City, Ia.; Clyde, Clinton; Otto, on the home farm, and Fred C., Ft. Dade, Fla. The latter is a member of the 162nd Coast Artillery, and left Clinton a week ago, having spent the time of his furlough with his parents. He is also survived by two brothers, and one sister, Mrs. J. W. LEMEN, of Harp township, James of DeWitt, and Johnson, of Butler, Minn. He was a member of the M. E. church, of Clinton.

No time will be fixed for the funeral until word is received from the son in Florida. If he telegraphs he will come, the funeral will not be held before Monday.

Mrs. George R. SUTTON 

Date Unknown
Paper Unknown

MRS. LUCY SUTTON, AGED 86, EXPIRES.

Mrs. Lucy Jane SUTTON, 86, 1035 East Main died in the John Warner Hospital, where she had been a medical patient about a month. She was born in Ohio, October 26, 1851, a daughter of Charles P. and Susanna (NEGALLY) TORBERT, and moved to Dewitt County, settling in Harp Township with her parents, when a small child. She was married in this county to George R. SUTTON, December 4, 1873. He died September 26, 1913. Mrs. SUTTON had lived in Clinton since 1902, when she moved to town from the farm. She is survived by three sons, Thomas D. SUTTON, of Agar, S.D.; Fred C. SUTTON, Sarasota, Florida; and Otto SUTTON, of Chicago. She has two sisters, Mrs. TALBOTT, of Hillsboro, N.D. and Mrs. Ola LEMON of Los Angeles, Calif., nineteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. She was a member of the Clinton Methodist Episcopal church. The body will be at the home Wednesday morning. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in the M.E. church in charge of Rev. J.R. FORD pastor. Burial will be at the Woodlawn Cemetery.

Note: Charles P. Torbert was married to Susanna FENNER, not Susanna NEGALLY.

Submitted by Unknown

Peter J. SUTTON 

March 6, 1885
Clinton Public

Death of Peter J. Sutton.

In last week’s PUBLIC we gave a brief announcement of the death of Peter J. SUTTON, who had been a resident of Harp township for over thirty years. Mr. Sutton was a Kentuckian by birth, being born in Fleming county, on the 14th of August, 1816. Ten years later his parents moved to Ohio, where Peter was raised on a farm. ON the 2d of June, 1839, he was married to Miss Nancy A. CLAGG, a sister of Mr. Wm. CLAGG, of this city. In 1853 he was seized with western fever, and he moved his family out to Iowa, where he bought land and intended to make his future home. A few months trial in that State and the sickness of his family discouraged him, so he sold out for what price he could get and went back to Hardin county, Ohio, where he bought a fine farm. In less than two years afterward the western fever again took possession of him, and one day he sold his farm and brought his family to this county and bought land in Harp township. On this he spent the balance of his life. Mr. Sutton was a successful farmer and by industry and economy managed to secure for himself and family a fair share of this world’s goods. But few men probably had as many personal mishaps as did Mr. Sutton. During his life he might literally be said to have been broken to pieces on sundry occasions by accidents. Nearly every limb of his body has been twisted or broken. His last sickness was for a period of six weeks. He leaves a wife and five children, all of whom are well provided for.

Tilden D. SUTTON 

September 17, 1984
Clinton Daily Journal

Tilden Dowling SUTTON, 70, of 800 W. Leander, Clinton, passed away at 2:21 pm Saturday, September 15, 1984 at Crestview Nursing Home. Services were held today at 2 pm at Herington-Calvert Funeral Home, J. Kent Hickerson officiated. Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery, Clinton. Memorials may be made to the DeWitt County Cancer Fund.

Mr. Sutton was born December 29, 1913 in Sully County, So. Dak., a son of Thomas D. and Inez (SPENCER) SUTTON. He married Hazel MALCOM, July 8, 1939 in Clinton. She survives. Also surviving are one sister, Grace FAIRBANKS, Spearfish, So. Dak.; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and one sister. Mr. Sutton was a member of Clinton First Christian Church, a retired ticket agent for Illinois Central Railroad, a World War II Navy Veteran, a member of VFW Post 454 of Bloomington, and a graduate from Oneida High School in Oneida, So. Dak. in 1932. He moved to Clinton in 1935.

Submitted by Henny Elze

Mrs. Tilden D. SUTTON 

November 7, 1991
Paper Unknown

Clinton—Hazel Iola SUTTON, 82, of Clinton died Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1991 at Crestview Nursing Center. She was born March 6, 1909 in McLean County to Sandy and Sarah (MATHIS) MALCOM. She married Tilden SUTTON July 8, 1939; he died Sept. 15, 1984. She was a member of the First Christian Church and a retired employee of the Dr. John Warner Hospital. She was also a member of the Bloomington VFW Auxiliary. Preceded in death by three brothers and one sister. Survived by one sister Goldie RIDDLE of Clinton.

Funeral services will be held Friday at 11 am at the Herington-Calver Funeral Home with the Rev. J. Kent Hickerson Officiating. Burial in Woodlawn Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour before services at the funeral home. Memorials to the Crestview Nursing Center.

Submitted by Henny Elze

William C. SUTTON 

December 31, 1863
Clinton Public

Death of a Soldier.

William C. SUTTON, of the 107th regiment, son of Peter SUTTON, of this county, died recently at Knoxville, Tenn., of diarrhea.

Nancy (LISENBY) SUVER 

January 19, 1912
Clinton Register

WOMAN WROTE HER OWN OBITUARY.
Was a Former Resident of DeWitt County,
Being Married Here Over 60 Years Ago to John Suver.

Mrs. Nancy A. SUVER died at her home in Galesburg, Jan. 9, aged 85 years. She was a daughter of Benjamin and Margaret LISENBY, who came to DeWitt county about the time of the deep snow, when the Indians were leaving this part of the state, and as a child she, with others, used the wigwams they had left as playhouses.

She owned land near Lane, also lots in Clinton and, while able, she came to Clinton each year to look after her interests and visit old friends. For several years she had not been able to come, and her son C. G. SUVER had looked after her interests.

The funeral was held in Galesburg, Jan. 11, conducted by Rev. J. A. BARNETT. Burial was in the family lot at Monmouth.

The following was sent the Register by her son:

The subject of this sketch wrote her own obituary some years ago, and since her decease the same was found and is given herewith in full. It reads as follows:

"Nancy A. LISENBY was born in Monroe County, Ky., November 21, 1826, second daughter and third child of Benjamin G. and Margaret Lisenby. Moved to Illinois, ending their journey in Sangamon county, November 21, 1829. The next October moved to Salt Creek, then Macon County. Later came to DeWitt county where she was married at home to John Suver, April 1, 1850. Then moved to Piatt County and lived there till the fall of fifty-three, then moved to Warren county, ending the journey Nov. 8, 1853. February the 17th, 1856, she became a widow with three children to care for but my faith in God was strong and my prayers were for strength to do right in all things, to the best of my ability, though there were many besetments to set aside. In the year 1865, July 18, I was called to the sad duty of laying away my eldest child, a dear little frail daughter. But angels wanted her company, for such only reaches the Golden Shore to dwell with the Father. So I remained on the farm till May 19, 1883, and moved to Galesburg, Knox County, Illinois."

The deceased probably intended to finish the sketch later on. The following facts in addition are of interest to her friends:

The three children referred to in the above sketch are Mary Isabel who preceded her mother to the Unseen World forty-seven years ago, Leonidas G., and Margaret J., wife of W. J. WALKER, of Chanute, Kas., who survive her and are present to pay their last respects to Mother. One step-daughter survives, wife of N. F. CONAD, living near this city. Besides these relatives she is mourned by a very large circle of friends who have known and appreciated her throughout the years. The last ten years of her earthly pilgrimage has been overshadowed by a physical infirmity which has rendered her an almost helpless invalid. But in spite of the physical disability her mind has been alert, all through the years and to the end. She has manifested a wonderful patience and cheerfulness in suffering. While not able to engage actively in service to others, she has nevertheless manifested an interest in many good works and has helped with her means. By nature she was religious and possessed a staunch faith in God and in her later years made confession of faith in Christ and signified her desire to enter the church, but her physical condition hindered. Kind by nature and always patient and just and upright, she has impressed her lofty character upon her children and has bequeathed to them a heritage of sacred memory more precious than all the treasures of earth.— J. A. Barnett.

Donald SWAN 

February 17, 1911
Clinton Register

Buried in Woodlawn.

Donald SWAN, brother of Malcolm SWAN of this city, died of pneumonia at Storm Lake, Iowa, last Friday after a short illness. Deceased was in Clinton recently to visit his brother, returning to Storm Lake, Iowa, on Monday of last week. While here he was taken sick and was under the care of a physician but it was not thought to be serious and he felt fully able to make the trip home. Nothing was known of his latter illness until Friday, when a message came announcing that his condition was serious. This message was followed Saturday by another, announcing his death.

The remains were brought to Clinton, arriving here on Tuesday, in charge of his brother, who went to Iowa on receipt of the death message. Funeral services were held at the home of Malcolm Swan on West South street Tuesday afternoon at 3:30, conducted by Evangelist Barnett. Interment in Woodlawn.

Deceased was born in Scotland, coming to this country about 25 years ago; he was a farmer in Creek township until about four years ago when he went to Oklahoma. His fatal illness came while at Storm Lake, where he had stopped off to visit relatives. He is survived by four brothers, Peter of Maroa, Alexander of Waynesville, Hugh of Vermilion county and Malcolm of this city.

James & Margaret (GILLESPIE) SWAN 

April 14, 1882
Clinton Public

SAD FATALITY.

Two weeks ago last Tuesday [March 28], James SWAN, a much respected citizen of Lane, died of pneumonia. He had only been sick for a few days. At the time of the funeral his wife was confined to her bed with the same disease, and just eight days afterward [April 5] she, too, followed her husband to the world beyond. They leave two children, aged eight and ten years.

Note: Mrs. Swan's maiden name was Margaret Jane Gillespie.

John SWAN 

April 29, 1904
Clinton Register

DEATH OF YOUNG MAN.

John SWAN died Wednesday in Champaign at the home of his brother-in-law, Dr. W. H. ZORGER, of consumption. He was 28 years old and a son of Alex SWAN, near Waynesville, and is survived by his parents, two sisters and one brother.

Peter SWAN 

March 22, 1912
Clinton Register

Death at Maroa.

Peter SWAN died Sunday morning at 9 o'clock at the home of his daughter Mrs. C. M. WOOD, in Maroa. Peter Swan was born in Scotland and was 76 years of age. He came to this country in 1865 and for several years lived on a farm in Texas township. While living on this farm, six of his children died of diphtheria. In 1882 the family moved to Maroa, having since lived here. Mrs. Swan died about a year ago. There are four children surviving, Mrs. C. M. Wood and Miss Florence, of Maroa; Walter, of Champaign; and Miss Lillian, of Indianapolis. Mr. Swan had been town clerk for several years and at the time of his death was police magistrate. Funeral services were held at his late residence, at 2:30 p.m. Monday, conducted by Rev. S. N. Wakefield. Interment was in the Maroa cemetery.

SWEARINGEN (child) 

October 27, 1899
Clinton Register

Wapella.

Mr. and Mrs. Chas. SWEARINGEN's babe died last Friday morning and was buried in Long Point cemetery Saturday at 2 o'clock.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Mrs. A. SWEARINGEN 

October 1, 1886

Mrs. A. SWEARINGEN died at her son's residence in Wapella, on Tuesday night, of paralysis of the heart. She was stricken down suddenly while sitting on a lounge talking to one of her neighbors. She was in her eightieth year.

Abraham SWEARINGEN 

October 7, 1887
Clinton Public

Death of Abraham Swearingen, One of the “Snow Birds.”

At the advanced age of nearly ninety-two years Abraham SWEARINGEN, one of the pioneer settlers of DeWitt county, died at his home in Long Point on last Wednesday evening. Till the last three months of his life the old gentleman had excellent health. The machinery of life had worn out and his digestive organs refused to do their work. He was confined to his bed less than three weeks.

Abraham Swearingen was born in Monongahela county, Pennsylvania, on the 7th of February, 1796. When a boy his parents moved to Lewis county, Kentucky, where he was married, on the 13th of October, 1816, to Elizabeth LOW, by whom he had fourteen children, eight boys and six girls. In 1826 he moved to Illinois and located on a farm in Long Point, then in Tazewell county, and on this same farm he lived for forty-eight years and finally died in the old homestead. In the division of the counties Long Point became a part of McLean county, and when there was another divide DeWitt county was organized. Mr. Swearingen, therefore, lived in three counties at different times and always on the same farm.

His first wife having died, he was married a second time to Mrs. Amy HARROLD by whom he had two children—I. S. who lives on the homestead, and J. W. who lives in Nebraska. Only four of the first family of children are now living, all being married women with large families. After moving to Long Point Mr. Swearingen taught the first school in that settlement in a log school-house with split poles for benches and greased paper for window panes. At a later day there was a settlement in Long Point called Sabriski, with a post-office, and Mr. Swearingen was the postmaster. Game was plenty in the early days, and during the winter of the deep snow Mr. Swearingen had seven deer at one time in his smoke-house.

Mr. Swearingen lived to see the Prairie State grow from a barren waste to be the Garden of the Gods. In his early days he was an ardent Whig, and from the organization of the Republican party in 1856 attached himself to it. During his long life he had had the confidence of his neighbors and was looked up to as a man having more than ordinary judgment.

Henry SWEARINGEN 

April 3, 1891
Clinton Public

Mr. Henry SWEARINGEN, son of J. H. SWEARINGEN, died on Monday and was buried at Sugar Grove Cemetery Tuesday. He had been afflicted for years. His age was 39.

John H. SWEARINGEN 

January 20, 1882
Clinton Public

John H. SWEARINGEN, one of the old-time settlers of Long Point, in Wapella township, died last Monday, after an illness of only a few days. One day last week he bought some patent medicine pills of which he took a dose. On his way home he stopped in at Lighthall’s restaurant in Wapella and drank a glass of cider. The component parts of the pills must have been largely of calomel, for in less than an hour after drinking the cider Mr. Swearingen’s mouth and gums became very sore, and in a few hours his whole system was completely salivated. He suffered terribly for two or three days when death came to his relief. Mr. Swearingen was one of the substantial farmers of this county and was one of the old guard of the Republican party. At the time of his death he was but sixty-three years old.

--------------------

January 27, 1882

Departed this life, at his home three miles north of Wapella, January 16th, 1882, John H. SWEARINGEN, aged 61 years.

Deceased suffered a number of years from an affection of the kidneys and liver, which finally terminated in the much lamented dissolution. Mr. Swearingen was born in Lewis county, Kentucky, April 1, 1820. In 1826 he removed with his father, Abraham SWEARINGEN, who is still living, to Champaign county, Illinois, and thence to DeWitt county in 1830, where he resided until his death.

January, 1841, he was united in marriage to his now much bereaved wife, Miss Katherin [sic] TROXELL, by whom he had ten children, four of whom preceded their father to the shores of eternal rest. A few years ago he moved from his farm to a place on the banks of Long Point, where he was constantly engaged in adding new charms and conveniences to the most beautiful home in this part of the county. To this beautiful home of comfort he and his companion of many years of toil and hardships retired to spend the remainder of their days in ease, a station in life they could amply afford and had so justly earned.

Mr. Swearingen was a good husband, a tender father and a kind and generous neighbor; a man of sound practical judgment, which he exemplified in the few local offices which he consented to fill. Although firm in his convictions he was gracious in his judgment. Exempt from the shackles of a biased mind, he recognized good in all things pertaining to the development and improvement of his fellowmen. Politically he was a staunch Republican, one who never lost faith in a good principle simply because inefficient men occasionally failed to rightfully carry it out. In his religious views he left salvation free to all men, believing that true Christianity consists more largely in deeds of charity than cant forms of prayer or ostentatious modes of baptism.

We knew him long and well. Quite unpretentious, liberal according to his means, genial in spirit, we could not fail to esteem him nor regret his loss, when he was called forth to the realms of the Great Beyond. The legacy of his bright example and the memory of his noble deeds remain. Yet we mourn him as we mourn good men whose lives have been linked with ours and are no more. Monroe Nelson.

Soloman SWEARINGEN 

March 3, 1893
Clinton Public

Mr. Solomon SWEARINGEN, an old soldier of the late war, answered the last roll call at his son’s house, two miles west of Heyworth, on February 24th. His remains were laid to rest in the cemetery by the Christian Church in Long Point, on Saturday Afternoon, by his comrades of Seward Nelson Post. He enlisted in Co. B, Nineteenth Kentucky Infantry in 1861 and served three years and eleven months. He moved from Kentucky to this State four or five years ago. At the time of his death he was sixty-one years old. He leaves a wife, two small children and other grown children to mourn his departure.

Mrs. Soloman SWEARINGEN 

December 1, 1911
Clinton Register

Wapella Woman Dies.

Mrs. Sarah SWEARINGEN, aged 72, an old and respected citizen of the village of Wapella, died Sunday morning at 7 o'clock at the home of her daughter, Mrs. M. E. BURGER. She was the widow of Solomon SWEARINGEN. The family moved to Wapella from Kentucky about 30 years ago. She leaves three sons, George H., at home; J. R. SWEARINGEN, of Weldon; and D. T. SWEARINGEN, residing east of Heyworth; five daughters, Mrs. M. E. Burger, Mrs. John COX, Mrs. L. MERIDA, Mrs. James ROUSIE, of Wapella, and Mrs. William GRIFFON, of McLean; one sister, Mrs. Margaret COX, of Maroa; two brothers in Kentucky. The funeral was held Monday at 1:30 o'clock p.m. at Long Point Christian church. Interment in Wapella Long Point cemetery, Rev. C. Robertson conducting the services.

Stull SWEARINGEN 

December 12, 1902
Paper Unknown

A FATHER CALLED.
Clinton Citizen Died Tuesday afternoon.
Was Born in Wapella Township Nearly Sixty Years Ago.

Stull SWEARINGEN died in his home in the northwest part of the city about 5 o'clock Tuesday morning, aged 58 years and 2 days, after an illness of 2 or 3 weeks with nervous trouble. I. S. Swearingen was born in Wapella township Dec. 7, 1844, where he lived until he moved to Clinton, most of the time on a farm. May 24, 1865, he was married to Miss Lottie KNOTT, two children were born to them, one dying in infancy, Frank lives on his father's farm. His wife died about three years after their marriage, and April 17, 1872, Mr. Swearingen was married to Miss Eliza THOMAS, who survives him. To them three children were born, all of whom are living. They are Lillie, Charles and Stella, the latter living with her parents and the others in Wapella Township. He was an Odd Fellow and a Good Citizen. He had lived in Clinton about two years. The funeral was held at the Long Point Christian church yesterday at 11 o'clock, conducted by Rev. FISHER, pastor of the Christian church. Interment in Long Point cemetery.

Submitted by Unknown

Augustus P. SWEENEY 

January 5, 1883
Clinton Public

Augustus P. SWEENEY died on Wednesday night of typhoid pneumonia. He had been sick about three weeks. Gus was a promising young man, and his early death is a crushing blow to his father and mother, who fairly worshipped their boy. When a lad at school he was among the brightest and best of the scholars in the high school and graduated with honor to himself and to his class. He was industrious and ambitious, and as soon as he left school he began business on his own account, but worked for his father on the farm during the planting and harvesting seasons. Just before his fatal illness he was making arrangements to go to Texas with a load of cattle, and while at Waynesville he was taken sick. He was in his twenty-seventh year. The funeral services were held this morning at the residence of his father, Mr. R. W. SWEENEY, after which the body of Augustus P. Sweeney was consigned to the tomb in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Jack SWEENEY 

January 26, 1883
Clinton Public

Jack SWEENEY, who was sent to the poor farm from this city about four or five months ago, died on last Wednesday evening, from the effects, it is supposed, of spinal injuries received a number of years ago, caused by falling out of an apple tree which he was trimming. He came to Clinton about twenty-five years ago, previous to which time his life had been that of a sailor. Jack’s name had been prominently connected with several unsavory episodes in Clinton, but was never convicted by the courts of any charges brought against him. He was about sixty-five years old when he died.

George SWIGART 

March 9, 1900
Clinton Register

Geo. SWIGART, brother of Jacob SWIGART, died Mar. 2 at his home near Farmer City, aged about 65 years. He leaves a widow but no children, except an adopted daughter.

His widow was Catherine (HURLEY) Swigart.

Jacob SWIGART 

November 9, 1906
Clinton Register

PROMINENT CITIZEN DEAD.
One of the County's Best Known Men Passes Away at His Home in Farmer City.

The funeral of Jacob SWIGART was held in Farmer City Sunday and the attendance was evidence of the high esteem in which he was held. He had been in failing health nearly a year on account of injuries received by being thrown from a buggy and death resulted Thursday.

Jacob Swigart was born in Pennsylvania Sept. 21, 1827, and lived over 10 years. When 20 years old he came to Farmer City and his parents came two years later. Three years later he was married to Miss Rebecca DAVIS. By good management and industry they soon acquired much land, and he owned about 2400 acres in the east part of the county.

Of the nine children born to them seven are living as follows: Carl, of Clinton; E. C. and Harry, of Farmer City; O. H., of White Heath; E. S., of Champaign; Mrs. J. J. WILLIS, of Maywood; and Mrs. L. R. HERRICK, of Farmer City.

Deceased was a Republican and had held important offices. He was supervisor of DeWitt township twelve years, and in 1868 was elected to the legislature. He had been president of the Old First National Bank of Farmer City several years, preceding his death.

Sarah (McCONKEY) SWIGART 

March 4, 1887
Clinton Public

Mrs. Carl SWIGART died at her home in DeWitt last Tuesday evening. She was the mother of three children. Mrs. Swigart was the daughter of the Rev. A. McCONKEY, of DeWitt, and a niece of Mrs. C. L. ROBBINS, of this city.

--------------------

March 11, 1887
Clinton Public

Mr. Carl SWIGART desires to express his gratitude to friends and neighbors of DeWitt and vicinity for the respect and kind attentions show his wife during her late illness, and for expressions of sympathy since her death. The memory of these things is the only relief from the darkness of the great affliction.

--------------------

March 18, 1887
Clinton Public

Sarah Arabella, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. McCONKEY, was born Nov. 6, 1855. Her parents emigrated to DeWitt county from Ohio the year of her birth. She joined the Methodist Protestant Church in 1873, and February 4th, 1876, she was married to Carl SWIGART. Three children were born to the, all of whom survive her. She died at her home in DeWitt March 2, 1887, after a few days illness. Her funeral services, held March 3d, were conducted by her pastor, Rev. WINANS, assisted by Rev. POMFRET, of the M. E. Church. A large number of friends and relatives accompanied the remains to their final resting place in DeWitt.

Thus, briefly chronicled, is the life of a woman, who, though belonging to the younger generation had many of the sterner elements of the pioneer in her character. Few indeed combine such sturdiness of character with such kindness of disposition. Firm in the right, yet gentle as a child, she won the hearts of all. Not many lives are lived more earnestly than this one. She knew no weariness to serve her people and loved ones. Hers were the unceasing teachings to guide her children in the path of duty; to instill in the plastic mind the easy lessons of piety. The husband must walk alone down the shadows of life's valley. The children are left without the light of a mother's love; yet she has bequeathed to them the rich legacy of a noble example. Although one of a large family of children, yet by her peculiar unselfishness and self-reliance she was much leaned upon as the staff of the declining years of her aged father and mother.

She was also a worker in the church, holding the office of steward at the time of her death. It is well known that in a village all charitable and religious work is in the hands of a few. Of this few Mrs. Swigart was one of the best. Whether for a church festival or Sabbath-school entertainment, she was foremost in the work. From all came the tribute, "She was our helping hand."

To the bereft husband and children, to the mourning father and mother, nearing life's resting place; to the brothers and sisters; to the friends of her life and labors— we can only point you for comfort to the faith which sustained our beloved through every trial.

Myra Byrl SWINEY 

August 27, 1895
Clinton Public

Myra Byrl SWINEY died Tuesday, August 27, 1895, at 6:40 a.m., aged 1 month 1 day, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. M. F. SWINEY. Funeral residence, August 28th. Burial: Camp Ground Cemetery.

Elizabeth (PORTER) SWING 

August 8, 1879
Clinton Public

Mrs. Elizabeth Porter SWING, wife of Prof. David SWING, of Chicago, died at Oxford, Ohio, last Saturday. For years Mrs. Swing had been in a very feeble state of health, consumption being hereditary in her family. Some six or seven brothers and sisters had already died from this disease. Mrs. Swing was a lady of fine literary culture, and was a graduate from the Oxford Female College. She was married soon after she graduated, having formed the acquaintance of the Professor while she was a student, he being Professor of the Greek language in the college. Mrs. Swing was a woman of retiring disposition, and took more pleasure in her home and in the training and education of her two daughters than in the world of fashion and society, of which she could have been a leader owing to her education and the position of her gifted husband. The writer, long years ago, knew Mrs. Swing when she lived in Oxford and when her husband was a Professor in Miami University. The Professor will have the sympathy of the many acquaintances he formed in his visits to this city.

SWISHER (infant) 

October 7, 1910
Clinton Register

Funeral of a Child.

The funeral of the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles SWISHER, aged 5 days, was held at the residence, two and a half miles west of DeWitt, Sept. 16 at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Davis of DeWitt.

Elizabeth (LEMEN) SWISHER 

August 7, 1908
Clinton Register

DEATH OF MRS. SWISHER.

Mrs. Elizabeth A. SWISHER died on Wednesday at her home on South Madison street, aged 58. She had been in poor health three or four years, the result of a paralytic stroke.

Her maiden name was Elizabeth LEMEN and she was born in Ohio on January 25, 1849. Her first marriage was to Joseph FISHER in 1881, who died a few years later. She was married to Isaac Swisher, who died about eight years ago. She was the mother of no children. For several years she had lived with her step-daughter, Mrs. Chas. HENDRICKS.

When she realized she could not live long, she made requests for her funeral. She named the pall bearers, selected songs to sing, and asked to be buried in a metallic casket.

Joseph LEMEN of Harp township and James LEMEN of Monticello are cousins of deceased. No brothers or sisters are living.

Funeral services were held from the residence at three o’clock today, conducted by Rev. J. B. Horney of Bloomington. Burial in Woodlawn.

Elnora (PIATT) SWISHER 

May 10, 1895
Clinton Public

Miss Elnora PIATT was born in Clark County, Ohio, in 1842. In 1853 moved to Illinois. Died May 7th, 1895 at her home five miles north-east of Clinton. Her husband, I. F. SWISHER, is one of DeWitt County's active and prosperous farmers. He together with two sons and two married daughters feels his loss very keenly. Mrs. Swisher was a very quiet, lovable Christian woman, devoted to her family and home. When fifteen years of age, she united with the old Methodist Church during one of Jas. RUCKER's revivals. The funeral services were held in the beautiful maple grove that surrounds the home of Mr. Swisher. The whole neighborhood turned out to the funeral. Many from Clinton were present to express their sympathy with the bereft husband and family. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. W. A. HUNTER, of the Presbyterian Church of Clinton, and a very large procession followed the remains to Woodlawn for burial.

Harley B. SWISHER 

September 15, 1917
Clinton Daily Public

LARGE CROWDS GATHER TO PAY LAST RESPECTS.
To Harley B. Swisher—
Funeral at Universalist Church This Morning.

Funeral services for Harley B. SWISHER were held at St. Paul’s Universalist church at 10 o'clock this morning by the pastor, Rev. Arthur W. McDavitt. A large crowd assembled to pay their last respects to the deceased who was held in high esteem by the residents of Clinton. There was no music and the Masons attended in a body and had charge of the services. The pall was borne by Richard Crang, Newton Ross, Charles Sprague, Roy Warrick, E. J. Bowles and Fred Lighthall. The body was taken to Heyworth by automobile where burial was made.

Isaac SWISHER 

June 27, 1890
Clinton Public

Death of an Old Citizen.

Isaac SWISHER, one of the early pioneers of Harp township, died last Monday, and on Tuesday his remains were interred in DeWitt Cemetery. He was born in Clark county, Ohio, on the 31st of January, 1812, and was in his seventy-ninth year. In 1834 he was married to Miss Kitty FOLEY, and in the same year he left Ohio and came to Vermilion county, Illinois, where he lived about one year. In the fall of 1835 he moved to Old Town, McLean county, and in 1836 he located a farm in Harp township, on which he spent the remainder of his days. He was the father of eight children, four sons and four daughters. One of his daughters is Mrs. J. W. RICHARDS, who lives near Weldon; another is Mrs. Austin WIGHTMAN, living near Old Town timber; a third daughter is the wife of C. W. McCORD, who lives at Storm Lake, Iowa. The two sons, C. F. and J. W., are living in Harp township.

When Isaac Swisher and his family came to this county, fifty-four years ago, they had to endure all the hardships of pioneer life. He brought thirty sheep with him from Vermilion county, which were so tempting to the wolves that within a short time the last of the [stock] disappeared. During the sudden freeze in the winter of 1836 the chickens in trying to escape the storm froze fast in their tracks. Food was scarce and they could not obtain an ear of corn out of which to make meal. They had a little buckwheat and this they ground in a coffee mill, the distance to a mill being too great in the severe weather from which they were suffering. For a long time they were accustomed to pound the grain in a hollowed log, out of which they made their bread. The old man lived to see DeWitt county the garden spot of the State, and for at least a quarter of a century he enjoyed all of the comforts to be obtained from a well-tilled farm. Those old pioneers could teach the later generations a lesson in patience and thrift.

Submitted by Bob Halsey

John H. SWISHER 

May 1, 1914
Clinton Register

DEATH OF A PIONEER.
John W. Swisher Was Born in Illinois Nearly Eighty Years Ago.

John W. SWISHER, who had been a resident of Harp township for nearly three score years, died at his home yesterday morning, Thursday, April 30, of senility. Mr. Swisher was conscious to the last, the end coming peacefully and painlessly. All the surviving members of the family were present when the end came.

Deceased was born in a pioneer home on an unbroken prairie where the city of Hoopeston, Ill., now stands. At the age of one year the parents moved to Harp township and that had since been his home. He was born July 17, 1835, and at the time of his death was nearing his 79th anniversary. In 1858 he was married to Miss Mary WILLIAMS, who died in 1902, leaving four children: Elva G. SWISHER and Mrs. Caddie SEGAR, of Manson, Iowa; Edward and Harley SWISHER, of Clinton. Ten years ago Mr. Swisher was married to Miss Anna RING, of Clinton, who survives. Mr. Swisher was a highly respected citizen, serving several terms as justice of the peace in Harp township.

Funeral services were held from the home at 3 o'clock Thursday afternoon, in charge of Rev. A. w. McDavitt, of Clinton. Interment in the Johnson cemetery.

Mrs. Samuel L. SWORDS 

May 28, 1857
Central Transcript

Died in this place, May 3, 1857, after a painful illness of twelve days with pneumonia, Mrs. Elizabeth SWORDS, wife of S. L. SWORDS, in the 42d year of her age. Born in Nelson county, Va., but early removed by her parents to Adair county, Ky., she grew up and was there first united in marriage to James MOORE. There also she united with the M. E. Church. After the death of Mr. Moore in Menard county, Illinois, she came to this place, where she connected herself with the Presbyterian Church, and was again joined in marriage, August 2, 1854, to S. L. Swords. She was remarkable for her quiet, amiable and affectionate disposition; and possessed of more than ordinary prudence, and all those qualities which endear persons most to those who know them best. Her piety became known by her Christian deportment and not by her loud professions. Although her sufferings were great, she was never known to murmur and thus as we humbly believe, another humble child of God has been removed from the Church Militant to the Church Triumphant.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
SWORDS, SAMUEL L.    MOORE, ELIZABETH     08/22/1854    DE WITT

BACK TO OBITUARY INDEX

The DeWitt County GenWeb Project Team

Judy  Simpson: County Coordinator

Site Redesign Genealogy Web Creations