Obituaries - W
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Obituaries were submitted by Judy Simpson unless otherwise noted.
WADE (child)
January 26, 1900
Clinton Register
The youngest child of S. H. WADE, son of Samuel WADE, of Clinton, died Tuesday at Coffeyville, Kan.
Submitted by Sheryl Byrd
Clifford F. WAKEFIELD
August 10, 1900
Clinton Register
DIED IN CAMP.
A Former Clinton Boy Is Operated Upon for Appendicitis
and Dies in Four Days.
Clifford F. WAKEFIELD, of Heyworth, formerly of Clinton, died at Springfield Tuesday where he was in camp with a Bloomington regiment. He submitted to an operation Friday for appendicitis and grew worse from that time. He was a son of James WAKEFIELD, of Bloomington, formerly of Clinton, and was a brother of Alvin WAKEFIELD, of Lincoln, Mrs. Chas. HAMMOND, of Clinton, and Mrs. G. A. CROWDEN, of Mendota. He went to Heyworth about five years ago and was married there. His wife and one child survive him. The remains were brought to Clinton Tuesday afternoon and the funeral held from the residence of C. N. Hammond Wednesday at 2:30, conducted by Rev. HORNEY. Interment in Woodlawn.
Lycurgus WAKEFIELD
January 29, 1892
Clinton Public
Born in DeWitt County—Died in California.
Lycurgus WAKEFIELD was born on the Wakefield homestead in DeWitt Township, on the 11th of June, 1853. He died in National City, California, on last Monday, January 26, aged thirty-eight years, seven months and fifteen days. His parents were Orin and Hannah (McCORD) WAKEFIELD. He lived upon the farm where he was born till 1873, when he attended Lombard University, Galesburg, Ill., for one year. From the Sioux City (Iowa) Journal of last Wednesday we copy the following particulars which no doubt were furnished to the Journal by his brother, Judge WAKEFIELD:
In the autumn of 1874 he came to Sioux City, and entered the office of his brother, Geo. W. WAKEFIELD, and commenced the study of law. After a year in the law office he became route agent in the United States mail service, continuing, however, his law studies. He was admitted to the bar in the district court of this county in the fall of 1876. He held the office of route agent until January 1, 1881, when he resigned for the purpose of removing to the then new town of Pierre, S.D., to engage in the practice of his profession. The severity of the winter delayed his departure from Sioux City until April. He opened a law office at Pierre and continued in the practice there until 1889, when on account of ill health he returned to Sioux City, where he lived until last September, when he removed to National City, Cal., hoping in that genial clime to recover his health.
About a month ago it became necessary to have his left leg amputated on account of abscesses which had formed on it as a result of the ulceration of the lower intestines. From the effects of the amputation, being already in a low condition physically, he rallied only a little at first and then sank gradually until his death.
He was married to Mary HOSKINS, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. C. HOSKINS, at Sioux City, November 17, 1882. There have been born to this union four children, Orin, Clarissa, Helen and Edith. The wife and children survive him. Last Sunday evening Mr. and Mrs. Hoskins left for National City. It is probable they may not hear of their son-in-law’s death until they reach California.
Melanchon WAKEFIELD
September 28, 1900
Clinton Register
Melanchon WAKEFIELD, of Cherokee, Ia., died last Saturday night. He was born at DeWitt, Ill., Feb. 27, 1842, and moved to Iowa in 1870. He began the study of law in Bloomfield, this state, in 1869, and was one of the ablest lawyers in Iowa. He was a cousin of C. W. McCORD, of Clinton.
Mrs. Nancy J. WAKEFIELD
January 15, 1892
Clinton Public
Mrs. Nancy J. WAKEFIELD felt the first symptoms of cancer about one year ago, but the disease was so virulent that her physical condition was so badly impaired that from the start she suffered greatly. She was induced to go to Decatur to a physician who advertised that he could cure cancer and submitted to a surgical operation. The relief was hardly temporary, for the disease kept spreading. Death came to her relief this morning, and the wearied and pain-racked body is at rest. Mrs. Wakefield was born in Indiana in the year 1839, and at her death was fifty-two years, seven months and eight days old. She was married to James WAKEFIELD in the year 1860, and when the war broke out her husband enlisted and left wife and babies to fight for his country. Mrs. Wakefield was a soldier’s wife, and was one of the very few women in this county who knew what it was to have her husband exposed to the horrible realities of war. A majority of the soldiers in this county married since the close of the war. Mrs. Wakefield was the mother of twelve children, five of whom with her husband are left to mourn the death of wife and mother. The funeral services will be held in the M. E. Church on Sunday afternoon, at half-past one o’clock.
Orin WAKEFIELD
May 8, 1885
Clinton Public
Orin WAKEFIELD was born August 27, 1808, at Watertown, N.Y., and he died at his home in DeWitt, Ill., at 25 minutes past nine o’clock, Sunday morning, May 3, 1885, having attained the age of 76 years, 8 months and 6 days. He was one of the sixth generation from Thomas WAKEFIELD, who in 1680* came to Massachusetts from Yorkshire, England. His father, Joseph WAKEFIELD, though born in New Hampshire, was raised in Windsor, Vermont, and in 1800 removed to Watertown, where he married Miss Susan SAWYER. This Sawyer family dates back to Thomas SAWYER, who in 1639 came from Lincolnshire, England, to Lancaster, Mass. The descendants of these two families, Wakefield and Sawyer, are scattered through many of the states of the union. Seven children were born from this marriage of whom Betsey, Elisha, Orin, Zera and Cyrenius have since lived and died in this and McLean counties. Of these, Orin was the pioneer in this state. He came to this county in the spring of 1833, and on May 28th of that year entered a portion of the farm which he owned and occupied at the time of his death. He at once commenced opening this farm which he industriously cultivated and improved for over half a century. In those early days he was a strong active man and counted it nothing to cut and split two hundred oak rails per day.
He was married to Hannah McCORD, who belonged to one of the pioneer families of this county, March 13, 1836. Eight children were born to him by this marriage: Susan, Mary, George W., Melancthon, Bandusia, Hephestion, Philetus and Lycurgus. Susan and Mary died in infancy and Hephestion at the age of 18 years. The other five children survive him, and though widely scattered from the old homestead, they were all present with him at and before the time of his death. George W. is now Judge of the circuit court in Iowa and resides at Sioux City. Melancthon is a lawyer at Cherokee, Iowa, and has there been honored by seven successive terms as mayor. Miss Bandusia was for many years a teacher in the Normal University, at Normal, Ill., but now resides with her brother, George W., at Sioux City. Philetus is a physician and now resides at Pratt, Kan. Lycurgus is a lawyer at Pierre, D. T. His [Orin’s] wife, Hannah WAKEFIELD, died April 13, 1856.
He was again married to Mrs. Susan N. HOWARD, who now survives him, February 18, 1858, from which marriage no children have been born. In his boyhood days Orin Wakefield worked in summer on his father’s farm and in winter attended school. He thereby obtained a good common school education and thereafter taught a few terms of school in the neighborhood. After reaching manhood he obtained for a time employment in Sacketts Harbor, where he displayed and cultivated that literary taste, that love of books, which marked his after life. Here he had access to a library of classic literature with which he occupied his leisure hours. So well did he apply himself that often in after years, in his western home where books were scarce, he would from memory amuse and instruct his children by relating facts of history by telling the wondrous stories of Homer and by reciting choice selections of prose and verse. His life in this county is a part of its history. He held several offices in DeWitt township, though not a seeker after office, and discharged every trust reposed in him with ability and fidelity. In business he was straightforward and fair, and his word was as good as his bond. In the pursuit of his chosen vocation as a farmer, he wrought from his goodly farm and enjoyed a competence. It is believed he made no will, as he thought the law made a just distribution of a man’s estate. He was a Republican in politics and cordially supported good government.
He was very careful in the training and education of his children, to whom he was especially devoted. As husband and father he was always kind, considerate, [and] loving. His attachment for his friends, his relatives and family was pure, true and tender as a mother’s love. He was quiet and unobtrusive in his manner, yet he had the courage to form his own opinions and stand by them regardless of popular favor. He was temperate and walked a free man. Though he was not formally a member of any church, yet he was in belief a Universalist and in life and conduct a Christian gentleman—an exemplar of that “pure religion,” defined by St. James. His heart ever went out in strong sympathy for the poor and oppressed. During many years of his life no man ever called at his door for food or shelter without receiving it. No man ever had a gentler, sweeter, lovelier spirit than he. His life was such that when his summons came to join the innumerable caravan that take their chambers in the silent halls of death, he went sustained and soothed by an unfaltering trust. He died sweetly and peacefully, as the dews fall from heaven and as fearlessly as one draws the drapery of his couch about him and lies down to pleasant dreams.
The funeral services were held Tuesday of this week, at the Fullerton Church, and many friends assembled to pay the last tribute of respect to his memory. The floral tributes borne by the casket were beautiful. The Rev. D. P. BUNN, Universalist minister at Decatur, Ill., delivered the funeral address and paid an eloquent tribute to the virtue of the deceased. At the conclusion of the services the remains were viewed for the last time by his friends, when they were borne to the McCord burying ground where kind hands laid all that was mortal of the good man to rest in the silent grave.
Note: Not sure about the number 8 in 1680, as it is hard to read due to unclear print.
From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WAKEFIELD, OWEN MCCORD, HANNAH 03/30/1836
MACON
WAKEFIELD, ORIN HOWARD, SUSAN N. 02/18/1858
DE WITT
Mrs. Orin WAKEFIELD
November 27, 1885
Clinton Public
Mrs. Orrin WAKEFIELD, formerly of DeWitt township, died at the residence of her son Blake HOWARD, at Grand Island, Neb., on Sunday, November 8, in the seventy-eighth year of her age. In 1857 she came from Alexandria, New York, and lived in Wapella with her son till 1858, when she was married to Mr. Wakefield.
Mrs. Philetus WAKEFIELD
November 11, 1887
Clinton Public
At her home in Pratt, Kansas, the wife of Dr. Philetus WAKEFIELD departed this life, on Friday of last week. Her death was caused by typhoid fever, and her sickness was of seven weeks duration. Her body was brought back to this county, and on Tuesday she was buried in the cemetery at DeWitt. Mrs. WAKEFIELD was born in this county, on the old home farm near DeWitt, nearly thirty-six years ago, and till the time of her marriage with Dr. Wakefield resided there. She leaves three children, two boys and a girl, the girl being the youngest and eight years old. Eli P. WILLIAMS, a banker in McPherson, Kansas, and Mrs. G. W. LEMON, of Brenham, Kansas, were her brother and sister.
Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WAKEFIELD, FILETUS WILLIAMS, REBECCA F.
1871-08-22 DE WITT
Arminda (HAMAN) WALDEN
December 11, 1885
Clinton Public
Mrs. Arminda Ann WALDEN, wife of Jesse G. WALDEN, died at her father's home last evening, of consumption. She had been sick for about three months. Her age was twenty-one years and ten days. She leaves an infant child. Mrs. Walden was the daughter of Mr. Jacob HAMAN.
Mrs. Jane WALDEN
June 7, 1889
Clinton Public
Mrs. Jane WALDEN, one of the early settlers of Wilson township, died last Tuesday morning, aged eighty-four years.
Sallie (WALTERS) WALDEN
February 8, 1895
Clinton Public
A Mother in Isarel Called Home.
Mrs. Sallie (WALTERS) WALDEN was born in DeWitt County on the 8th of August, 1829, and died at her home—in almost the same neighborhood in which she was born—last Monday, February 4th, aged Sixty-five years. She was married to James WALDEN September 14, 1848, and began housekeeping on the farm where she died. Seven sons were born to them and all are living—John W., David H., James F., Robert T., Willis E., Oliver M., and Dwight. The six older boys are married and are settled on farms of their own and are engaged in the stock business. Robert is a school teacher, and Dwight is the bachelor of the family. Twenty-eight grand children and one great grand child survive her. Mr. James Walden is nearing his threescore years and ten. His wife was truly a helpmate to him. She was a woman of remarkable energy, and when her children were young and Mr. Walden was an invalid she managed the entire business and made it profitable. Mrs. Walden was an earnest Christian woman, and her home was always open to the entertainment of the Ministers of RUCKER Chapel. She was zealous in good works. Mrs. Walden always took a warm interest in politics and she was an intense Republican. Always during political campaigns she entertained the Republican speakers and the glee club when meetings were held in her neighborhood. Her aged partner will miss her more than all others, for they had spent nearly fifty years together.
Jennie Belle WALDO
November 21, 1884
Clinton Public
Tragic Death of Jennie Waldo.
Jennie Belle, daughter of S. P. and M. J. WALDO, was born near Weldon, DeWitt County, Illinois, August 18, 1865, and died November 9, 1884, at the residence of her brother-in-law, Rev. J. D. BOTKIN, of Halstead, Kansas.
Mrs. BOTKIN enjoyed a very pleasant visit with friends in DeWitt and McLean counties and started for her western home on the 20th of October, accompanied by her sister Belle. Miss Waldo at once took high rank in Halstead society, where she spent two of the happiest weeks of her life. On Saturday evening, November 8, her brother-in-law went fifty miles away to attend a church dedication, and Mrs. Botkin and Belle went to Newton, ten miles away, the former to spend Sabbath, and the latter to return to Halstead in the evening with a lady friend. Arriving about eight o'clock the two young ladies walked down Main street in company with a gentleman escort. The town was alive with a Democratic jollification. The firing anvils and blazing rockets frightened a team, which broke loose from the rack and went thundering down the street. They came upon the three young people from behind, knocking them all down. Her companions were uninjured, but Belle received injuries from which she died at eight o'clock Sunday evening. Her sister and brother-in-law were summoned by telegraph, the former arriving four hours after the accident, and the latter one hour before the last struggle.
The good people of Halstead did everything in their power to relieve her sufferings and comfort her grief-stricken friends. In twelve hours after her death the remains, beautifully dressed and encased, and accompanied by the writer and family were on their way to her broken-hearted parents at Colfax, McLean county, Illinois. Large numbers of the citizens met the funeral party at the train. The services were held in the M. E. Church, of which the deceased was a faithful member, having been happily converted last winter. The business houses of the town were closed for several hours in token of the high esteem in which the dear girl was held.
The good people of Halstead manifested their high regard for sister Belle, and their sympathy for her friends by defraying all the expenses incident to her death, including the bills of four physicians, all the burial expenses and our traveling expenses to Illinois and return. J. D. Botkin
Note: S. P. Waldo settled in DeWitt county in 1852 and moved to McLean county in January, 1879. Most of his residence in DeWitt county was spent near Weldon.
Hiram WALDRON
Date Unknown
Paper Unknown
Funeral Services for Hiram Waldron Held on Wednesday.
(Obituary Extract)
Name: Hiram WALDRON
Born: June 11, 1859
Parents: C. and Nancy WALDRON
Married: Rebecca GODEN April 17, 1887
Survivors: Four sons, Cecil, Harry,
Grover, William; three daughters, Mrs. Charles HUNT, Mrs. Frank DUGAN, Goldie WALDRON;
step-mother, Mrs. Fanny WALDRON; two half-sisters, Mrs. Don PIATT and Mrs. Amy GANDY;
one half-brother, Arthur; three brothers, Milton, James, Steve; three sisters, Mrs.
Harry FRUIT, Mrs. John WEBB, Mrs. Frank COTTRELL; fifteen grandchildren and one
great-grandchild.
Funeral: Baptist church
Burial: Woodlawn Cemetery
Submitted by Debbie Champion
WALKER (child)
September 23, 1887
Clinton Public
A child of Albert GEISERMAN and one of Mr. WALKER both died during the past week.
Emery WALKER
December 28, 1928
Paper Unknown
LANE FARMER, ACCIDENTALLY SHOT, IS DEAD.
Emery WALKER, farmer near Lane, died yesterday afternoon following injuries received when his rifle accidentally discharged while he was climbing over a fence on his farm.
Mr. Walker had started out to round up some cattle. Remarking to Mrs. WALKER as he started that he would hunt on the way back, he took his rifle with him. When he did not return at meal time Mrs. Walker became somewhat alarmed and asked Jarvis McCORMICK and Henry WHITE, hands on the farm, to look for him. They discovered him unconscious, tangled in the fence with a bullet wound in his head.
He was carried to the house where he died early in the afternoon. A jury was called by Coroner James E. ELY and it was found that Mr. Walker met his death accidentally. It was believed that the gun, which was leaned against the fence discharged while Mr. Walker was seeking to untangle himself from the fence. Tears in his clothing and the position in which he was found bore testimony of the first fatal hunting accident of the local season. The jury was composed of Fred MILLER, Huntley JAMESON, Andrew WHITEHEAD, William BRENNAN, Vance MATTIX and Edward FUGATE.
Mr. Walker was 47 years of age and a native of Kentucky. He had farmed on the C. H. MOORE farm, where the accident occurred, for the past seven years. He is survived by his wife and seven children. Mrs. Walker was formerly Miss Lucy LONG, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John LONG, 625 North Center street. No funeral arrangements have been made.
Submitted by Don & Marian Walker
Judge James WALKER
July 24, 1885
Clinton Public
JUDGE JAMES WALKER.
Mr. Charles HANGER this morning received a telegram from Bellefontaine, Ohio, announcing that at ten o'clock last night Judge James WALKER died. The Judge had been sick for several weeks past with typhoid fever. He was attacked with the disease while Mrs. WALKER was in Clinton visiting her mother. On the receipt of a dispatch, she immediately left for home. Judge Walker had a very large acquaintance in this county, especially near Weldon where he owned several farms.
--------------------August 7, 1885
Clinton Public
JUDGE JAMES WALKER.
The death of Judge James WALKER, of Bellefontaine, Ohio, which we announced in THE PUBLIC two weeks ago, removed one of the most prominent figures in Ohio politics. The Judge was first stricken down with typhoid fever, but the cause of his death was paralysis of the heart.
He was well known in this county, being the owner of 1280 acres of land, 860 of which is in Nixon township and 420 in Harp. For fully thirty years he had been one of the political Warwicks of the West, never seeking public office himself—though he was many times member of the Ohio Legislature—but always among the foremost in the State conventions of the Republican party. The law firm of Walker & West, his partner being the famous "Blind Orator of Ohio," who nominated Blaine at Chicago in 1884, was one of the oldest in the country.
Judge Walker was born in Washington county, Pa., and when a mere boy went to Ohio. He studied law, and was admitted to the bar when scarcely of age. Removing to Bellefontaine with his school fellow, William H. WEST, they formed the partnership in 1849, which is now dissolved by death. He founded the Bellefontaine Republican and made it one of the influential journals of Ohio. He early became politically and socially allied with Salmon P. CHASE and labored earnestly to secure his nomination for Governor. He was an untiring worker in the antislavery movement, and abolitionist without cant. His labors took practical shape in personal and courageous service on numerous occasions in forwarding fugitive slaves to Canada. For his outspoken advocacy of human liberty he more than once had to defend his life from attack. As a speaker in the cause he was the coadjutor and companion of Gerrit SMITH, Joshua R. GIDDINGS, Wendell PHILLIPS, Horace MANN, and others. His kindness to young men was a matter of notoriety, and his popularity, after the troublesome slavery question was buried, never waned. He was several times Mayor of the city, chosen generally without opposition. He died amid his family, and the grief of his fellow townsmen, among whom he had dwelt for forty years, is universal.
Mamie (NEWBERRY) WALKER
October 14, 1973
Paper Unknown
MAMIE WALKER.
Cisco.
Mamie WALKER, 79, of Decatur died at 8:45 p.m. Sunday in Lakeshore Manor Nursing Center, Decatur.
Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in J. J. Moran & Sons Funeral Home, Decatur. Burial will be in Croninger Cemetery at Cisco. Friends may call at the funeral home.
Born at Farmer City, Mrs. Walker was a daughter of William and Melvina (HALL) NEWBERRY. She moved from Monticello to Decatur in 1928.
In 1910 she was married to Arthur SEEVERS, who died in 1913. She was married to Harry F. WALKER in July 1915, and he died in September 1962.
Mrs. Walker leaves sons, Dale A. SEEVERS of Ft. Meyers, Fla., Ronald L. SEEVERS, Earl M. WALKER, Robert P. WALKER, Harry F. WALKER Jr., and Carl E. WALKER, all of Decatur; a daughter, Loraine SPENCER of Decatur; sisters, Edith STEVENSON of Monticello and Alta FEGER of Mexico, Mo.; 21 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Mamie Newberry Walker born 7 JAN 1894, died 14 OCT 1979, Decatur, Macon Co., IL.
Submitted by Trish Couture
Mary (THOMAS) WALKER
February 1897
Funeral Card
Died at home in Geuda Springs, KS, February 23, 1897, Mrs. Mary (THOMAS) WALKER, aged 67 years, 1 month, 25 days. Funeral: M. E. Church, February 27. Burial: City Cemetery.
Submitted by Bob Halsey
Solomon WALKER
January 31, 1913
Clinton Register
Solomon WALKER died Tuesday morning at 10, in Leroy, following an illness of long duration with Bright's disease and heart failure. He was born in Bloomington Grove, being the son of John WALKER, a McLean county pioneer. His parents died when he was quite young and he was reared in the family of Perry BRITON of DeWitt county.
T. S. WALL
December 7, 1883
Clinton Public
Sudden Death of Eld. T. S. Wall.
One week ago to-day Elder T. S. WALL, with his wife and seven children, arrived in Clinton. Elder Wall had recently been called to the pastorate of the Christian Church, and on Friday he moved here from Cessna, in Wayne county, to begin his work. He had leased the Kidder property, on North Monroe street, and was waiting the arrival of his furniture, which was expected that evening or the next morning. After the family had retired for the night, Elder Wall was violently attacked with pain in the region of the heart. It was some time before a physician could be had, owing to the lateness of the hour. When Dr. WRIGHT did arrive at the house, Elder Wall had just died, after a sickness of not more than four or five hours. He had complained during the day of not feeling well, but both he and Mrs. Wall attributed it to his indisposition to the weariness of traveling. It seems that for eighteen years past Eld. Wall was troubled with heart disease, and so fearful was he that death would come upon him suddenly that he never left his family for a night without a feeling of insecurity.
Within twenty hours from the arrival of the family in Clinton the wife and children were bereft of their protector. Here they were in a city where nearly all were strangers to them, for the Elder and his family were unacquainted with even the members of the church he was called to preside over. With but little money to provide for her family the prospect was indeed dark for the afflicted widow. The neighbors did all in their power to help the distressed family, and on Saturday afternoon a subscription was started for their benefit. There was but little time in which to work, as Mrs. Wall decided to return that afternoon to their old home in Greenup, Cumberland county, and take the body of her husband there for burial by the side of his kindred. The friends who circulated the subscription paper raised nearly one hundred dollars, out of which they bought tickets for Mrs. Wall and her children, and paying for the carriage of the corpse. The balance they gave to Mrs. Wall. The members of the church assumed the payment of the funeral expenses. Mrs. Wall can certainly feel that although she was among strangers in Clinton, yet the hearts and pocketbooks of our citizens were opened for her. It was a sad sight to see that funeral procession going to the depot. Within thirty-six hours from the time of their arrival in the city they were returning back to their friends, mourning for the death of a husband and father. The oldest of the seven children was not over fourteen years, while the youngest was a babe in its mother's arms.
Eld. T. S. Wall was but a young man at the time of his death, he not having reached his thirty-sixth year. For the past fifteen years he had been a minister of the Christian Church. From Mr. WAGGONER, who was personally acquainted with the Elder, we learn that he was a man of considerable repute in the councils of the church and was classed among its ablest preachers. He was a writer of considerable ability, and for a time edited a newspaper in the interests of the Christian denomination. The Christian Church in this city hoped much from his pastorate here, and his death will be a loss to them. Eld. Wall was a relative by marriage to Mr. T. N. BYERLY, of this city.
Col. Andrew & Esther WALLACE
May 29, 1885
Clinton Public
The Old Pioneers of DeWitt County.
Col. Andrew and Esther Wallace.
About fifty-four years ago Col. Andrew WALLACE and his wife Esther emigrated from Bourbon county, Kentucky, and came to what is now known as Dewitt county and settled in the northwest part of Tunbridge township. The Colonel was a native of Virginia and was born February 2, 1787. Till the time of his death, which occurred in December 1874, the Colonel took rank as the oldest and earliest settler in the county, he having lived here for about forty-six years. In 1790 the Wallace family moved from Virginia to Bourbon county, Ky., where in 1810 the Colonel was married to Esther CAMPBELL, who was born in Kentucky on the 12th of March, 1792. In the war of 1812 between Great Britain and the United States, Colonel Wallace was a soldier, and one of those brave men who fought the battle of the Thames. He was exceedingly fond of martial display, and in his life, after the war, he took a leading part in the general musterings and annual parades of the militia. He was well and familiarly known as Colonel Wallace, having held that rank in the militia service. By profession he was a farmer and became the owner of considerable land in the neighborhood surrounding him. Colonel Wallace was more than an ordinary man. He was possessed of a strong, vigorous mind, united with a large share of strong, hard common sense, and all who came into his presence were to a greater or less extent impressed with that fact. He had a fine, large physique, well formed, and carried himself with a dignified air that well became him. To his intimate friends he was most genial and companionable, of warm and generous impulses, and the very soul of truth and honor. The Wallace home was the general resort of the neighborhood for miles around, and the latch-string of the door was always hung on the outside. At the advanced age of eight-seven years Colonel Wallace passed over to dwell with the silent majority.
His wife, Mrs. Esther Wallace, survived him a little more than ten years, and at the advanced age of ninety-three passed from this life on the 17th of this month to join her aged consort in the better land. Mrs. Wallace was a native of Bourbon county, Kentucky, and was married to Andrew Wallace on the 26th of April, 1810—more than seventy-five years ago. Of this union eleven children were born, seven sons and four daughters. Three of her daughters were at her bedside during her illness administering to her comfort. One of the sons was a soldier in the Mexican war and died in Mexico. One son was a soldier during the last war and died of disease contracted in the service. The other sons died at their homes in Tunbridge township. There is a large number of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren, making the fifth generation. Mrs. Wallace died on the farm on which she and her husband first settled when they came to this county in 1831. She united with the M. E. Church in 1838, and lived a consistent and worthy member. At her home the minister of the gospel always found a cordial welcome, and long before churches were known in this county the neighbors used to gather at the Wallace home for religious worship. The celebrated Peter CARTWRIGHT, Elders AKERS, BARGER, JAMES, and many others of the noted itinerants of the early days of Methodism in Illinois, preached in the Wallace home. Abraham LINCOLN, Judge DAVIS, Leonard SWET, and other noted lawyers of those days often partook of her hospitality while traveling the judicial circuit.
Colonel Wallace and his wife lived together for sixty-four years and seven months. They were a noted couple. Their house was a general resort of both old and young, and no couple did more to develop this country sociably, religiously and morally, and to make the wilderness blossom as the rose than did Colonel Wallace and his worthy wife.
May we all ever cherish the memory of the old pioneers who faced dangers and hardships in rescuing this country from the savage and the wild beast, and who paved the way for the development and improvement of the grand state of Illinois. Today we enjoy the blessings of railroads, telegraphs, telephones and thousands of other improvements that the pioneer never dreamed of. During her lifetime Mrs. Wallace saw all of these advances in our civilization. After the death of her husband Mrs. Wallace still continued to occupy the old homestead, and was most tenderly and devotedly cared for by her widowed daughter, Mrs. HICKMAN. She was not afflicted with any particular disease, but naturally wore out with old age. Her mind was vigorous to the last, and her last words to her children and grandchildren were full of comfort and Christian resignation.
The funeral services were held on Tuesday, May 19, at her home, conducted by the Rev. William HOWARD, pastor of the M. E. Church at Mt. Pulaski, who was an old and intimate friend of the family. Mrs. Wallace was laid to rest in the Randolph Cemetery by the side of her husband and children. The pall-bearers were selected from the friends of her early days, and were W. F. BOWLES, W. H. RANDOLPH, Levi DAVENPORT, A. L. BARNETT, James BARNETT and Rev. I. B. GALLAHER.
Note: The original article gave the Colonel's first name as Alexander, but after checking census and cemetery records, which show his name as Andrew, I took the liberty of making the correction. His name is also given as Andrew in his daughter's obituary (see Reddick).
Irene WALPOLE
April 29, 1896
The Daily Review
WELDON.
Irene, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mead WALPOLE, living five and a half miles southeast of town, died last Friday night, aged 18 months. The child had been sick but one day. The funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Mr. Stevenson of Cisco at the M. E. church here Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock. The remains were laid to rest in the Weldon cemetery.
Submitted by Sheryl Byrd
Lotus (CARR) WALPOLE
January 1, 1932
Paper Unknown
(Obituary Extract)
Mrs. Lotus WALPOLE Passes Away After Long Suffering.
Name: Lotus Bernice (CARR) WALPOLE
Date: Tuesday, December 29, 1931
Born: March 17, 1902
Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Charles CARR, Sr.
Married:
Wayne WALPOLE Oct. 23, 1919
Survivors: Grandmother: Mrs. Lavona CARR, her
parents, brother: Charles CARR, Jr., sisters: Mrs. Margaret RHOADES of St. Louis,
Mo., and Helen CARR, at home.
Funeral: M. E. Church at 2 o'clock Thursday
afternoon, December 31. Rev. S. N. MADDEN officiating, assisted by Rev. L. S. KIDD
Burial: Weldon cemetery
Submitted by Debbie Champion
Nicholas WALRATH
February 8, 1895
Clinton Public
Nicholas WALRATH, a tenant living on Phil WEEDMAN's farm, west of Farmer City, died last Tuesday morning, aged forty-four years. He leaves a wife and a family of small children without any means of support.
Cora (BOWLES) WALSH
February 10, 1899
Clinton Public
Funeral of Mrs. Walsh.
The funeral of Mrs. Wm. Walsh was largely attended at St. John’s church Wednesday. A large collection of beautiful floral offerings attested that deceased was held dear in the hearts of many friends, who sympathize with the bereaved and heart-broken family. Father M. A. DOOLING in his sermon paid a glowing tribute to the deceased, and extended many words of comfort to the surviving relatives. Remains were laid to rest in Woodlawn cemetery.
--------------------February 10, 1899
Clinton Public
Death of Mrs. W. Welch.
Bride of a Few Days Succumbs After a Brief
Illness.
Mrs. William WELCH died at her home in this city on Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock after an illness of but a few hours, aged 24 years, 9 months and 21 days. Deceased was born on April 15, 1874, and was a daughter of the late Robert BOWLES. She was recently united in marriage and besides her husband leaves three brothers and one sister to mourn her sudden and untimely death. Funeral services were held in St. John's church on Wednesday morning at 9:30 o'clock, conducted by Father M. A. DOOLING.
Note: This was in the same paper, same date, but the spelling is incorrect.
Note: From Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WALSH, WILLIAM J. BOWLES, CORA 01/24/1899
DE WITT
Amy (PHARES) WALTERS
Date Unknown
Paper Unknown
(Obituary Extract)
Name: Amy (PHARES) WALTERS
Date: Wednesday, March 24
Born: March
15, 1869
Parents: Francis and Elizabeth (McPHERSON) PHARES
Married:
Gene WALTERS April 26, 1888
Survivors: Children: Mrs. Maude ROBBINS, Clear
Lake, Iowa; May WALTERS, Woodward, Iowa; Mrs. Vernelle SEIDEL, Mason City, Iowa;
William M., of Seattle, Wash.; Lloyd, of Annandale, Minn., and Rev. Verdette WALTERS,
of Martinez, Calif. Brother: Will M. PHARES, of Muskogee, Okla.
Funeral: Friday
at Mason City, Iowa.
Submitted by Debbie Champion
Florence (PHARES) WALTERS
July 13, 1894
Clinton Public
For some weeks it has been known to the many friends of Mrs. Thurston E. WALTERS, formerly Miss Florence PHARES, daughter of H. C. PHARES, of Weldon, that her health was very poor and that consumption had marked her for its victim, and her mother hastened to her bedside to assist in caring for her. Her father also went to her bedside and remained for some days and brought to her many friends here the sad intelligence that it was a question of only a few days or weeks at most when she must take her departure. This was sad news indeed to her many friends here, for here she had passed her school days, girlhood, and here she was married to the companion of her choice. As a girl she was modest, vivacious, witty, and bright and the life of every social circle in which she entered. Loving and gentle in her disposition, she was acknowledged as a leader.
May 31st, 1883, she was married to T. E. WALTERS, a young railroad man, and as a wife and mother she shone as the bright and particular star around which clustered all the endearments of home life. Her husband's business as a railroad man called him to Texarkana, where she entered into the new and sacred relations of a Christian life and as such her life was one resplendent with Christian graces and triumphs and she exemplified those Christian graces in her daily life until the end came.
A year ago she returned from Laredo, Texas, to her old home, but alas her return was too late. She had developed the seeds of consumption. She removed to their new home at Aurora, Ill., and her friends fondly hoped that the change of air and climate might check the ravages of the dread destroyer, but in vain. She departed this life in Aurora, Ill., July 6th, 1894, aged thirty-two years, five months and seven days. She leaves a kind and loving husband and two children to mourn her loss, also a father, mother, five sisters and two brothers. One sister, Mrs. Sam Mawhinney, having died less than one year ago. The funeral assemblage was one of the largest ever seen here, perhaps nearly one hundred persons being unable to obtain admission to the church. The services were conducted by Rev. R. H. OSBORNE, of the M. E. Church, assisted by the Rev. BOWEN of the M. P. Church, after which she was laid to rest in the Weldon cemetery to await the resurrection. She sleeps peacefully near her old childhood home.
--------------------July 13, 1894
Clinton Public
The sad death of Mrs. Florence WALTERS, wife of Thurston WALTERS and daughter of Mr. Clay PHARES, occurred at Aurora, Ill., on Monday last. Her death was due to the dread monster quick consumption. Mr. Walters was brought up near Weldon and so was Florence Phares, whose amiable and kind heart made her lively to all of the wide circle of young people. Eleven years since the young couple pushed westward and located in Laredo, Texas, where they were progressing until a year since, when they decided to return to Illinois where Mr. Walters is now in business. Mrs. Walters caught a deadly cold in the process of moving and its baleful effects have been with her until it developed the malady of her life. An immense turnout of old neighbors and relatives followed the remains to the Weldon cemetery on Tuesday, both M. E. and M. P. ministers officiating.
John WALTERS
April 7, 1899
Clinton Public
Highly Respected Citizen.
John WALTERS, one of the old settlers of DeWitt county, died at his home near Parnell, Ill., March 31, 1899. He had been sick for several months with some disease that baffled the physician’s (word unreadable). He was a very successful business man and farmer, having attained a considerable competency. He leaves a wife and three children. He served his country in the war of the Rebellion, was an acceptable member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, and a member of the Masonic fraternity at Farmer City. He was highly respected by his friends and neighbors as was attested by the large concourse present at his funeral, which occurred Sunday, April 2nd, at the Parnell M. E. church, Revs. J. FORBES and F. M. HARRY officiating, the Masons having charge of the services at the grave. Parnell and vicinity have lost a valuable citizen in Mr. Walters.
--------------------April 7, 1899
Clinton Public
Died of Consumption.
John WALTERS, of Parnell, died on Friday of consumption, aged 69 years. He had been complaining for some time. Remains were buried in the Camp Ground cemetery near Farmer City on Sunday morning. He leaves a wife and four children, three sons and one daughter, all grown to maturity. Funeral was in charge of Farmer City Masonic Lodge.
--------------------April 1899
(Funeral Card)
John WALTERS died at home, on Friday, March 31, 1899, at 10:20 a.m., aged 59 years, 1 month, 10 days. Funeral: M. E. Church, Parnell, IL, April 2. Burial: Camp Ground Cemetery.
Samuel WALTON
April 7, 1882
Clinton Public
Died, of consumption, in Western Iowa, at the residence of his son, William, Samuel WALTON, a citizen of this county, aged 50 years, 4 months and 3 days. Mr. Walton had been afflicted about twenty-five years, the last 12 of which he was unable to attend to much business in consequence of failing health. A few weeks prior to his death, he went to Iowa in hopes of finding some relief, but all in vain. He continued to grow worse until death came to his relief on the morning of the 27th of March, 1882. Mr. Walton was born in Jackson county, Ohio. At the age of seven he moved to Illinois and settled in Vermillion county, where he grew into manhood, and when twenty-two years old came to DeWitt county, since which time has resided in DeWitt and vicinity. He has been married twice, first in 1843 to Mary JOHNSON, second in 1856 to Mary Jane McCONKEY. Has nine living children, three by his first wife and six by his second. Samuel Walton was one of a family of sixteen, all of whom have gone to the spirit land save one sister, whose demise is daily expected, having the same disease of which they all died. He was a man of untiring energy, full of business. For many years was post-master in this place. Was a man not generally known, was attentive to his own business, and did not meddle with the affairs of others. He was a kind father and a devoted husband, and will be greatly missed by a loving wife and affectionate children who are left upon the shores of time to mourn their irreparable loss. He remarked just before his death that he would like to see his wife and little girl, but could not, said, “tell them my last hours were the happiest ones of my life.” His remains were brought here and interred in the DeWitt cemetery. —A Friend.
Edna Leone WAMPLER
September 2, 1918
Clinton Daily Public
EDNA LEONE WAMPLER IS CALLED BY DEATH.
Well Known and Popular Young
Lady Passed Away at Her Parents' Home Sunday Evening.
The news of the death of Miss Edna Leone WAMPLER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. C. WAMPLER, 413 North Jackson street, which occurred Sunday evening at 6:30 o'clock, brought sorrow to hundreds of friends of the young lady and of the family. All of Clinton knew that the young lady was making a desperate fight for her life and that the odds were against her, but all were living in hopes that the indomitable courage of Miss Wampler might triumph. Not even the best of medical skill nor Miss Wampler’s will power could triumph and at 6:30 o'clock, surrounded by members of the immediate family, she peacefully passed to her reward.
Edna Leone Wampler was born in Weldon, Illinois, February 7, 1901, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Wampler. December 18, 1902, the family moved to Clinton where they have since resided. The deceased attended the public schools of Clinton and on May 31, 1918, she graduated from the high school.
During January of last year Miss Wampler’s health began to fail and upon the advice of physicians, her parents took her to El Paso, Texas. After five weeks of the Texas climate, physicians decided that it was safe for her to return home, the family arriving in Chicago on Easter Sunday. In Chicago the best medical talent was secured and upon their advice and treatment, hope was held out for her complete recovery.
May 24th Miss Wampler was permitted to return to Clinton but on July 4 she was again taken to Chicago where an operation was performed. For two weeks it was thought that she would not recover but after that she improved and was permitted to again return to her home in Clinton with hopes of complete recovery. After a short time her condition began to grow worse and she continued to fail until her death occurred Sunday evening.
The deceased was the second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wampler who with two brothers, Captain E. C. Wampler of Camp Mills, New York, and Charles Edwin, at home, survive, a sister, Anna Marshal died in infancy.
The deceased was an active member of the Christian church, singing in the choir and teaching the primary Sunday school class. She was also active in the work of the Christian Endeavor.
The funeral will be held from the Christian church Wednesday afternoon at 3 o$#39;clock, the Rev. Ralph V. Callaway, of Sterling, Ill., former pastor of the local Christian congregation, will have charge of the services assisted by Rev. T. T. Molton of Bloomington and Rev. Cartwright pastor of the local church. Burial will be in Woodlawn.
George WAMPLER
August 28, 1903
Clinton Register
ANOTHER OLD SOLDIER FALLS.
Father of County School Superintendent,
T. C. Wampler, Dies at His Home Near Kenney.
George WAMPLER died at 4:30 Monday afternoon at his home, two miles east of Kenney, aged 64 years, 7 months and 25 days, his disease being pronounced abscess of the pleura. He had been in poor health about two and a half years, but was not confined to his bed until last Friday evening.
Deceased was born in Knox county, Ind., Dec. 29, 1838. When he was young his parents moved to Lawrence county, Ill., where he was married to Rebecca SEITZINGER, in 1861. To them one daughter and four sons were born, of whom only William H. and Thomas C., county superintendent of schools of DeWitt county, are living. Those deceased are Mary A., James L. and Benjamin F., James dying near Kenney a year ago. The wife and mother died Jan. 20, 1875. At her death four children were living and he cared for them with a devotion that was commended by all his friends. Several years previous to the death of James, his home was with him. He then made his home with William. During the Civil war he served in the 65th Illinois and his four brothers also served in that war. Two of them are living, Henry, of Palestine, Ill., and David, of LaCenter, Wash., both of whom visited him a few months ago. He was a member of the G. A. R. at Kenney, and [of] all those of that post, only five attended the funeral. All the other members have died or moved away.
He was an honored citizen and had no enemies. He was always greatly attached to home and was seldom seen elsewhere except on business. The last twenty years he had spent in this county, first three years east of Waynesville and seventeen years near Kenney, where all his neighbors attest of his uprightness. His only regret was that he must die before the children of his deceased son James were old enough to care for themselves.
Funeral services were held Tuesday at the residence at 3 o'clock, conducted by Rev. T. A. CANADY, assisted by Rev. E. A. GILLILAND .... Burial was in the Tunbridge cemetery northeast of Kenney.
Submitted by Bob Halsey
Mrs. A. M. WAND
March 15, 1895
Clinton Public
A sad death occurred in Farmer City last Monday. A. M. WAND is the proprietor of a store in that town, and for years his health has been so poor that his wife had to take an active part in the management of the business. The Wands moved to Farmer City and were engaged in a general store business in the Young & Gould building which was burned down last September. They lost heavily by the fire, but they got another building and moved into it the remnant of the stock saved and tried it again. In January they got back to the old stand in a new building, and while Mrs. WAND was in Chicago buying goods she caught cold which developed into typhoid fever, and then death. Mrs. Wand was only thirty-two years old. She was a woman of indomitable energy, and on account of her husband's sickly condition the whole burden of business rested on her.
Thomas WANTLAND
Date Unknown
Paper Unknown
THOMAS WANTLAND, Lane, Dies; Was 71 Years of Age.
Thomas WANTLAND of Lane passed away at his home at 11:30 o'clock Thursday morning. Mr. Wantland suffered with complications of diseases. He was 71 years, 9 months and 16 days old. He was born in 1850 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Mr. Wantland was married in 1880 to Miss Mollie HAYS, of Lane, and to this union nine children were born, two preceding him in death. Besides his wife he leaves his children: Mrs. U. L. GIBSON, Earl and Ottow WANTLAND, of Clinton, Fred, Albert and Erve of Lane, and Mrs. Jerry CYPHERS, of Deland. Also one Sister, Mrs. Ella NILES of Rochester, Iowa, and 20 grandchildren. No funeral arrangements have been made.
Submitted by Debbie Champion
Elijah H. WANTLING
March 13, 1891
Clinton Public
Elijah H. WANTLING, father of Mrs. Thomas HARP, died at the residence of his daughter last Wednesday evening [March 11], in his eighty-seventh year. He was born in Maryland on the 7th of June, 1804. Thirty-eight years ago he moved from Ohio to this county. He was twice married. This made the second death in the Harp household within four days.
Note: aka WANTLAND
Dr. John WARNER
December 22, 1905
Clinton Register
END OF A BUSY LIFE.
Dr. John Warner Dies at His Home After Brief
Illness Yesterday Afternoon.
CLINTON'S OLDEST BUSINESS MAN.
Was Eighty-Six Years Old; Had Lived
in Clinton Sixty-Two Years; and Had Been Engaged in Banking Nearly Forty Years Known
Throughout the State.
Dr. John WARNER is at rest. After a busy pilgrimage of four score and six years he answered the final roll call. For several years his health had been failing, but he journeyed on giving little heed to the warning that comes with ripened age. Though several years past the eightieth mile post in the journey from the cradle to the grave he continued in business and attended to most of the affairs pertaining to his large landed estates. He realized the danger to one of his years from overwork, but his courage, like his bravery on the field of battle, would not allow him to shrink from his personal duty. It was not until about a year ago when paralysis deadened and weakened his physical powers, that he was compelled to lessen his attention from business. He recovered sufficiently to go about and seldom was there a day when his familiar form was not seen about his place of business. But little more than twenty-four hours before his death he was at his banking house, and not feeling well he returned home at 2 o'clock. Soon afterward he complained of pains in his breast; his physicians were summoned, and his family was informed of his dangerous condition. He grew worse and a few minutes after 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon the end came.
Dr. Warner began life at the bottom of fortune's ladder; by steady and industrious effort he had ascended well up on its coveted rounds. After the invaluable schooling of farm life, he resolved to seek a new field of labor. After a few months as teacher he began the study of medicine and receiving his diploma sought opportunity in the then West. He drifted to DeWitt county, which became his field of action. The outlook was not bright, but his ambition and determination opened the way to success. Hope parted the clouds and sunshine cast its encouraging rays along his pathway. His safe reasoning and keen foresight led him to invest his money in the rich prairie land that was then considered, by many, almost worthless. Its rapid advance in price soon added greatly to his wealth, and in 1867, in company with Henry MAGILL, Lawrence WELDON and J. R. WARNER, under the firm name of John Warner & Co., he engaged in banking, which he had since continued. For seven years previous to enlisting as a soldier he was in the mercantile and real estate business. His wealth grew until he had long been one of the wealthiest men in Central Illinois. Besides the controlling interest in the bank he owned five business buildings and several residences in Clinton, besides the palatial homestead at the south limits of the city. His landed interests are vast. In DeWitt county he owns (number unreadable) acres; he also owned a farm near Olney, Ill., two or three farms in Indiana; a farm near Lincoln, Neb., and about 700 acres in Iowa. There seems no doubt of this estate being more than $1,000,000, which has been the result of his own efforts.
A fitting monument to his enterprise and benevolence is the new hospital, a view of which is given on this page. Last spring he set apart $25,000 for the building and endowed it. The hospital is enclosed, but will not be completed for several weeks. It will be a pride to Clinton and will endear Dr. Warner's memory to every citizen.
John Warner was born in Rockingham county, Va., July 24, 1819, his parents being David and Catherine WARNER, of German descent. They lived on a farm and there in the beautiful valley the first sixteen years of his life were spent. Sept. 3, 1835, they started westward in two wagons. They crossed the Allegheny mountains and reached Wayne county, Indiana, late in the following month, where they spent the winter. In March of the following year they moved to Henry county where the father had purchased a farm. One year later John began teaching school at $25 a month, and at the same time began the study of medicine under a medical firm of Anderson. Oct. 30 of that year he was married to Miss Cynthia A. Gardiner, of the same county, and June 2 of the following year they started westward with no particular place for location in view. Eighteen days later they landed in Mt. Pleasant, now Farmer City. There were only five residences and one hotel in the town. The hotel was kept by John SMITH, and they remained there until he could procure a house, and it was only 12x12 feet. He lived there and practiced medicine two years when he moved to Clinton, which had since been his home.
He continued the practice of medicine until he had spent about twelve years in that work, though he always disliked it, and engaged in another business at the first desirable opportunity. From 1848 until 1852 he was clerk of the circuit court.
When the Civil war began he was among the first in the county to enlist, and raised a company and was made major of the 41st regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was at the surrender of Ft. Henry; in the battles of Ft. Donelson, Shiloh, Davis Bridge, the Hatchie and Corinth. At Shiloh he contracted chronic diarrhea, from which he never fully recovered. On account of this he resigned his position and returned home. In 1865 his wife died. May 28, 1874, he was married to Miss Isabella ROBINSON, of Huron county, O. He served one term in the legislature, from 1864 to 1866. In 1867 he engaged in the banking business, and had since continued in that business, though his health for a few years had prevented his taking an active part in the work, yet he seldom missed being at the bank every day when able to be from home. The bank-room had been his business home nearly forty years, and it was only fitting that he be there only a few hours before the closing of his earthly career.
Dr. Warner is survived by his wife and the following children: Vespasian WARNER, Commissioner of Pensions; Mrs. Harrison METTLER, of Chicago; Mrs. Grant BELL, of Clinton and Florence, of New York City; his grandchildren and the child of Dr. and Mrs. Mettler and the children of Vespasian Warner They are Clifton M., John and Mrs. Guy G. DOWDALL, of Clinton; Vesper M., of Kansas, and Mary Frances, who is attending school in Pennsylvania, but arrived home yesterday. Their father will arrive from Washington tomorrow afternoon.
Dr. Warner was a member of no church but was strongly inclined to the Universalist church, of which his wife is a member. He was a liberal contributor to the building fund of that church and gave it the new pipe organ which cost $2000, making a total cost of over $3000.
The funeral services will be held Sunday at 2 o'clock at the residence, conducted by Rev. C. E. VARNEY. Burial in Woodlawn cemetery.
--------------------December 26, 1905
The Decatur Herald
BURIAL OF DR. JOHN WARNER.
Services Held at Home in Clinton on Sunday.
Clinton, Ill., Dec. 25.-The funeral of the late Dr. John WARNER was held from his late residence Sunday afternoon at two o'clock. The funeral services were in charge of the Rev. C. A. Varney of the Universalist church. There were 12 pallbearers, six active and six honorary members.
Dr. Warner was a charter member of Clinton Masonic lodge. The floral tributes were many and beautiful. Col. Vespasian Warner of Washington and Mrs. Florence Mace of New York City arrived Saturday.
Mrs. John WARNER
February 16, 1865
Clinton Public
DIED—In this town, on Wednesday, February 15, 1865, Synthia Ann, consort of Hon. John WARNER. The deceased was born July 3d, 1822, and consequently was between 43 and 44 years of age. For a long time she has been an active, consistent and exemplary member of the Methodist Episcopal church. She died in the triumph of faith—with full assurance of a happy immortality beyond the grave. To the doctor and family we offer our warmest sympathy and condolence.
Note: John Warner married Cynthia Ann Gardner/Gardiner in 1840.
Winifred (MOORE) WARNER
June 8, 1894
Clinton Public
Death took a kindly soul from earth this morning, at two o'clock, when it beckoned Mrs. Winifred (MOORE) WARNER to the spot where the shadows thicken. She was as generous in her thoughts as in her words and acts, and will be regretted by the large circle of friends who became attached to her through her many fine qualities and kindly disposition. For three days her life hung upon a thread, and the heart of Clinton was sad while the Death Angel hovered over that home.
For nearly a year Mrs. Warner has been an invalid, and recently she realized the fact that she must pass through a terrible surgical ordeal. With Mrs. BISHOP, and accompanied by her husband and by her family physician, Dr. F. E. DOWNEY, Mrs. Warner went to Chicago last week and consulted Dr. LUDLUM, a celebrated surgeon. It was decided that an operation was necessary. It was life or death, and the scales were so evenly balanced that Dr. Ludlum could offer no word of hope. Fully acquainted with the danger that confronted the brave woman, for the love she bore her husband and children, she resigned herself to the fate that awaited her. On Tuesday morning Dr. Ludlum and a trained nurse arrived from Chicago, and assisted by Drs. Downey, McINTYRE and HYDE, the operation was successfully performed. All the care that loving friends and husband and children could give surrounded the couch of the suffering wife and mother. For a time the clouds of doubt would clear away and there was hope she would pass the death line and be restored to health and bodily vigor, and then darkness would come as the Death Angel seemed very near. Hour after hour the life tide ebbed and flowed. Mrs. Warner was conscious through it all, even to the final hour, and she fully realized her condition. But calmly and patiently she awaited the change that must determine whether it was to be life or death. With the Christian's hope she trustingly looked for strength to that source that never fails, and her Heavenly Father sustained her as the shadows deepened.
At two o'clock this morning, surrounded by sad-hearted husband and children and her father and brother, the loving wife and mother crossed the river of death to meet her first-born and her mother, who had long been waiting for her coming.
Mrs. Winifred Moore was born in Tremont, Tazewell County, Illinois, on the 6th of May, 1849. Her father, the Hon. C. H. MOORE, soon after moved his family to Clinton. She was educated at a ladies' seminary in Painesville, Ohio, and was a woman learned in literature. On the 26th of March, 1868, she was united in marriage to Colonel Vespasian WARNER, and to them were born six children, five of whom survive her. Mrs. Warner's life was a benediction in the home, and her kindly, genial nature drew friends who loved her because of her unselfishness and a desire to make others happy. She was an earnest Christian woman and a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Warner was the only daughter of the Hon. C. H. Moore and the sister of Arthur MOORE. The funeral services will be held at the family residence on Sunday afternoon, at four o'clock.
--------------------June 15, 1894
Clinton Public
At Mrs. Vespasian WARNER's funeral last Sunday afternoon there was a very large attendance at the house during the services, and at Woodlawn a much larger audience awaited the arrival of the funeral procession. The services at the house were conducted by Dr. HUNTER, assisted by Rev. W. J. TULL. Dr. Hunter departed from the usual funeral sermon, but instead gave a few practical thoughts from the lesson of such a life as that of Mrs. Warner. In going from the home to Woodlawn, Colonel WARNER's old comrades of Co. E Twentieth Illinois acted as a guard of honor, marching at each side of the hearse. The Grand Army Post divided into two platoons, the first platoon marching before the hearse and the second platoon in the rear. Then came the family in carriages, followed by the friends. The old soldiers honored the memory of the dead wife of their comrade.
Clara WATSON
October 8, 1909
Clinton Register
Clara Watson was killed in a train accident.
(See news article)
Grier WATSON
October 24, 1890
Clinton Public
Grier, the baby of Mr. and Mrs. Charles WATSON’s household, died last Friday evening, aged twenty months and four days. Grier was a beautiful flaxen-haired boy, and the wound will be long in healing in the hearts of the afflicted father and mother.
Hattie (MERRIFIELD) WATSON
February 7, 1913
Clinton Register
DEATH OF MRS. WATSON.
Mrs. Hattie WATSON, wife of John R. WATSON, died at her home in Farmer City, aged 36 years, being sick four months. Hattie MERRIFIELD, daughter of John and Rebecca MERRIFIELD, was born in DeWitt county on June 2, 1876, and died on January 30, 1913, aged 36 years, 7 months and 22 days. She was married to John R. Watson on January 2, 1901, and her later life was spent at Farmer City. Her aged father, John Merrifield, died December 29, 1912. Besides her husband and little son, she is survived by her mother and the following brothers and sisters: J. H. MERRIFIELD, of Pontiac; S. F. Merrifield and Mrs. G. W. HOOVER, of Wapella; Mrs. A. W. HUFFMAN, of Mahomet; Jacob MERRIFIELD, of Dewey; and Mrs. C. P. ARBOGAST and Miss Maude, of Farmer City.
Hugh D. WATSON
January 25, 1901
Clinton Register
CALLED TO REST.
ONE OF CLINTON'S PROMINENT CITIZENS ENDS LIFE'S
JOURNEY.
After Many Days of Intense Suffering, He is Taken From Those Most
Dear to Him.
Today it is a sad duty to inform our readers of the death of H. D. WATSON, one of Clinton's best known citizens. For about a month he had been critically ill from the effects of a large carbuncle on the back of his neck. From the first, the physicians realized the danger of death resulting, yet by every effort known to their science the prolonged life, almost knowing that death would soon triumph over skill. Yesterday it was realized that the end was near, and his family, except Charles, who is in Denver, and Mrs. WINSLOW, of Kansas, gathered at his bedside to await the approach of the victor. At 5:30 yesterday evening the doors of eternity swung noiselessly open and the spirit of H. D. Watson had took its flight to a home beyond the skies.
Hugh D. Watson was born in Seneca county, O., Nov. 27, 1836, and lived 64 years, 1 month and 27 days. He lived in Ohio until 1865 when he came to Illinois and located in Wapella township in this county. Before leaving Ohio he was married to Miss Eveline STEVENS, who survives him. To them six children were born. They are Mrs. Howard WINSLOW, of Dalton, Kan.; Chas S., Dudley D., James G., Mabel and William D., of whom the three latter live in Clinton, and Mabel and William with their parents; James near Wapella on the homestead, Chas. in Denver and Mrs. Winslow in Kansas. In 1888 Mr. Watson gave up farming and moved to Clinton to enjoy a well earned rest from active work, and had since done no more than assist at the store of his sons, until about a year ago he bought a coal and feed business and conducted it a few months when he sold out. He had long been a member of the Presbyterian church, one of its most earnest workers, and an elder several years. Two years ago he built a fine residence in Clinton, and with the income of a fine farm was situated to enjoy life as never before had he been permitted to live. He was a good citizen and his hundreds of friends regret his death.
Funeral services in the Presbyterian church tomorrow at 2:30, conducted by Rev. S. C. BLACK; assisted by Rev. E. A. GILLILAND and Rev. CANADY. Interment in Woodlawn cemetery.
J. G. WATSON
1896
(Funeral Card)
J. G. WATSON—Died at Indianapolis, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. A. J. GARDINER, on January 9, 1896, at 12:25 p.m., J. G. WATSON, aged 78 years, 7 months, 7 days. Funeral: M.E. Church, Farmer City, January 11. Burial: City Cemetery.
Elijah WATT
November 22, 1889
Clinton Public
Death of an Old Citizen.
Elijah WATT, who for over fifty-one years had been a resident of DeWitt county, died at Eureka Springs, Arkansas, last Friday [Nov. 15], and his body was brought home and buried in the cemetery at DeWitt last Tuesday. He was a native of Kentucky and when a young man came to Illinois and settled in Sangamon county, where he lived four years. He came to this county fifty-one years ago and bought a farm of two hundred acres in DeWitt township, and this he still owned at the time of his death. He was the father of twelve children, and two of his sons served in the army during the war. His descendants are numerous, only a few of them living now in this county. In his early life Elijah Watt was an active member of the Methodist Church. He was an enthusiastic member of the Masonic order and was one of the original members of Amon lodge in DeWitt. He was a Democrat of the most pronounced type, but some of his sons were not of the same political faith. He lived to the ripe age of eighty-one years and nine days. His wife died three years ago, they having been married about fifty years.
Note: Elijah Watt was married to Mary Ann Day on May 1, 1830.
George R. WATT
February 1, 1895
Clinton Public
Tired of Life.
An Old Soldier Takes Strychnine.
The startling news came to Clinton yesterday afternoon that George R. WATT had committed suicide at his home in the village of DeWitt. Yesterday at noon, as George was going home to his dinner, someone met him on the road and saw him licking a powder from a piece of white paper. The neighbor thought that George was taking medicine, as the paper looked like that used for putting up prescription powders. George went into the house and sat down at the dinner table, but he was seized with a nervous chill and got up and went into an adjoining room and laid down on the bed. George called his wife to him and then told her the terrible story, that he had taken strychnine and that in a few minutes he would be a dead man. Mrs. WATT could hardly realize that such a thing could be possible, but seeing that her husband was suffering, she called in Drs. BISHOP and TAYLOR. Dr. Taylor asked him what he had done, and George coolly told him that he had taken strychnine and that he did not want him to do anything for him. Dr. Taylor attempted to insert a stomach pump in order to relieve George of the poison, but his efforts were unavailing, as George's throat had begun to contract from the effects of the terrible drug. The doctor then went to his office for some other appliances, but by the time he returned George was in the last throes of death and in a few minutes the last spark of life had fled.
George R. Watt was born in DeWitt township about fifty-two years ago. He was the son of Elijah WATT, one of the early settlers of the county. George was raised on a farm and had received a good country school education. When the war broke out he was one of the first of the young men who stepped into line in the courthouse square when Col. Lemon called for recruits, and he became a member of Co. E, Twentieth Illinois Infantry. He served over four years, having veteranized, and was discharged on the 16th of July, 1865, with the rank of sergeant. No braver man than George R. Watt ever followed the old flag or shouldered a musket. After the war, he came home and got married and went to farming. Then he moved to Kansas and bought a farm of his own and lived there several years. After returning to his old home in DeWitt he bought a country store and was doing well when a fire broke out one night and cleaned him out. George lost heavily and had but small insurance, but he went to work with a will and was fast making up his losses. He served as postmaster of DeWitt during the last half of President Harrison's administration, but was promptly removed when the Democrats came into power. They had no offices for old soldiers. At the last spring election, George was elected a collector for DeWitt township.
A wife and six children mourn the untimely death of a kind husband and father. One of his daughters, Miss Elva, is a teacher in the public schools in Kenney. His oldest son had charge of the store in DeWitt. George was making money, and the outlook for the future of himself and family was bright and pleasant. He carried $2500 life insurance, which is for the benefit of his wife and children. He was a member of the Grand Army and of the Masonic fraternity. The funeral will occur tomorrow morning from his home in DeWitt. The members of Co. E, Twentieth Regiment, will be the pall bearers. The Masons and Grand Army will conduct the funeral services. A number of Grand Army men from Clinton will go up to DeWitt on the train tomorrow morning to follow their old comrade to the tomb.
James WATT
December 20, 1889
Clinton Register
James WATT, who was sent to the Kankakee asylum several years ago, died there last Friday and was brought to DeWitt for burial. He was a son of the late Elijah WATT.
Harry WATTERS
January 23, 1885
Clinton Public
Mr. John O. WATTERS and wife seem to have had more than their share of affliction during the past twelve months. In that time they have lost three children by death, the last one a bright little fellow of six years, being buried last Saturday. Little Harry first had a severe attack of diphtheria, which finally culminated in paralysis of the throat, from which he suffered the most terrible pain.
Frank WATTS
May 8, 1885
Clinton Public
Frank WATTS, who formerly lived in Kenney, was killed by lightning while at work plowing in a field near Peoria, last Tuesday. Frank left Kenney some time ago and rented a farm near Peoria. His body was brought back to Kenney yesterday for burial.
Mrs. Sallie WATTS
August 21, 1885
Clinton Public
Mrs. Sallie WATTS, aged fifty-two years, died at her home in Kenney on last Saturday. She was the mother of Mr. L. C. WATTS, owner of the Union Block grocery in Clinton.
Edward WEAKLY
November 3, 1899
Clinton Public
There was a very sad death in town [Deland] last Friday night. Edward WEAKLY had typhoid fever for the past three weeks. A few weeks ago he was called to his home in Ohio to attend the funeral of a sister, and returned sick with the same disease of which she died. Last week another sister and brother of his died, and the father and mother are not expected to live.
--------------------November 3, 1899
Clinton Register
DeLAND.
Edward WEAKLEY, a farm hand who had been working the past year for George. W. TRIGG, died last Friday evening. The Loyal Sons of America, of which he was a member, took good care of him during his sickness. The body was sent to his home near Circleville, O.
Submitted by Sheryl Byrd
Addie WEAVER
October 22, 1886
Clinton Public
Addie WEAVER, daughter of A. A. and Mary WEAVER, died last Monday at the age of nearly four years. Her remains were interred in the family cemetery Wednesday morning. A rumor was current that her death occurred from diphtheria. This is untrue, as it was the result of membranous croup.
George WEAVER
September 29, 1899
Clinton Register
George WEAVER died at the home of his granddaughter, Mrs. Daniel RUNG, in Kenney last night about 7 o'clock of old age. He was 88 years, 9 months and 15 days old. The deceased was well known about Clinton. The funeral services will be held Sunday at the residence of Daniel Rung, after which the remains will be brought here for burial in Woodlawn.
Submitted by Sheryl Byrd
--------------------October 6, 1899
Clinton Register
NEARLY FOUR SCORE AND TEN.
One of DeWitt County's Oldest Citizens
Is Called Home at an Advanced Age.
It is said only one in a thousand reaches the age of ninety years and the subject of this sketch failed to the alloted [sic] one by only a few months When we speak of Lincoln, Longfellow or Whittier we think they have been dead a long while, yet Mr. WEAVER was born the year following the birth of Lincoln, and was allowed to live nearly 35 years after that illustrious man.
He was born December 14, 1810, on a farm in Madison county, O. He resided with his parents until he was united in marriage to Miss Hanna MOSS of Clark county, O. They resided in Clark county 17 years when they moved to Kosciusco county, Ind., where they lived until 1854 when they came overland to Illinois and settled on a farm one mile west of Clinton. Here they resided for five years when they moved to a farm in Texas township three and one-half miles northeast of Kenney, where they resided until two years ago when old age and ill health compelled them to seek rest and they moved to Kenney to reside with their granddaughter, Mrs. Daniel RUNG. Ten children were born to them but five of them died in infancy. The living are Mrs. Louisa CACKLEY, of Clinton; Josephine MITCHEL, residing with her daughter Mrs. RUNG; Thomas C., Baxter Springs, Kan.; Harvey V., Onarga, Ill., and Chas. H., living on the home farm. Mrs. Cackley and Harvey were unable to be present at the funeral.
Mr. Weaver possessed a rugged constitution, never shirking hard work and always ready to share the hardships of life with others. Since the death of his aged companion a little over a year ago his health gradually failed until he fell asleep Friday morning, September 29, to sleep the sleep which knows no waking.
Mr. Weaver was a conscientious christian holding the Universalist belief, but was unable to join that denomination until three years ago when he united with the church in Clinton. Funeral services were held Sunday at 10 o'clock at the residence of Daniel Rung in Kenney, Rev. C. W. Gossow of Clinton conducted the services and preached an eloquent discourse to the virtues of the dead exorting [sic] the living to be more Christ-like. After the services at the house the remains were taken to Clinton where they were laid beside those of his life-long companion who waited his coming in the world beyond.
Submitted by Sheryl Byrd
Mrs. George WEAVER
May 27, 1898
Clinton Register
MRS. HANNAH WEAVER.
Another of the Aged Christian Mothers
Gone to Her Reward in That Better Land.
Mrs. Hannah WEAVER died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Daniel RUNG at Kenney Wednesday morning, May 25. Her maiden name was Hannah MOORE and she was born in Clark county, O., in 1815, and was nearly 83 years old. She was united in marriage to George WEAVER Sept. 2, 1834, by 'Squire Lafferty, grandfather of C. S. Lafferty, of this city. About the year 1838 they moved to Indiana, having lost all their earthly possessions and began life anew. They came to Illinois in 1854 and settled near Clinton on what is now known as the Gus Weaver farm. In 1860 they moved on their present home place, near Kenney. By their industry they acquired a competency sufficient to provide against want in their old age. There were born to them ten children, five of whom died in infancy. The five living were present at their mother's funeral, and are as follows: Mrs. David CACKLEY, of Clinton; Mrs. James MITCHELL, of Kenney; Harvey, of Onargo; Charles, of Lincoln; Thomas, of Baxter Springs, Kan. Mrs. Weaver was a kind, motherly woman who was beloved by all. She and her husband had taken much comfort with each other and their family during a happy wedded life of more than sixty years. She was a member of the Universalist church, of this city, and had always practiced the virtue of a Christian character. Her husband, now 88 years of age, survives her and is well preserved for his years.
Funeral services were held yesterday at Kenney at the home of Mrs. Rung, conducted by Rev. James Alvin Clark, pastor of the Univeralist church. The remains were brought to Woodlawn cemetery for burial.
Note: Mrs. Daniel Rung was Hannah's granddaughter, not her daughter, and Hannah's maiden name was Moss, not Moore.
Georgie WEAVER
July 15, 1887
Clinton Public
Gone From Earth.
Little Georgie has gone.
"A child as sweet and fair
As sweet as opening rosebud in the morning air;
'Round his pure urn let darkest
cypress wave;
Earth could not save him from an early grave."
The sudden death of Georgie WEAVER, only child of Mr. and Mrs. C. WEAVER, occurred June 29th in the city of Chicago. Although being afflicted for many months past with a severe throat or windpipe trouble, caused by tumors growing in the windpipe, it was thought he was almost past danger, and most ready to return to his home, near Kenney. He had been in Chicago during the past eight months under the care of the most skilled physicians. To the utmost surprise of all, a telegram was received from his mother, who has so faithfully and untiringly ministered to her darling child, announcing the sad and unexpected death. The immediate cause was the bursting of an abscess on or near the windpipe, producing death by suffocation. Little Georgie, though only six years and two weeks old, was a bright and intelligent child—sedate far beyond his years—and will be a beautiful star in his home above. Mr. and Mrs. Weaver and the bereaved friends have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community in their sad affliction. And may they bow in humble submission to this afflictive dispensation of the All-wise God, remembering that:
"Youth and health and beauty's bloom
Are blossoms gathered for the tomb."
Solomon WEAVER
January 25, 1884
Clinton Public
Nearly eighty-one years ago Solomon WEAVER was born on Sewell Mountain, Virginia. When but a lad he moved to Madison county, Ohio, where he grew to manhood and became largely interested in farming and stock-raising. In 1850 Mr. Weaver came to this county and bought the farm, then owned by Aaron NAGELY, a short distance west of this city, where he lived and died. He had a family of ten children, seven of whom are still living. For each of his children Mr. Weaver made liberal provision during his life, and at the time of his death he still retained the ownership of the 642-acre farm which he bought when he first came to the county. Mr. Weaver has been in feeble health for a number of years, but at no time would he give up. During his last illness he kept up till almost the last moment. He died yesterday morning and tomorrow will be laid beside his children and grandchildren in the family graveyard, on the home farm. Solomon Weaver was a man who had the respect of his neighbors during his long and eventful life. He was true to his friends. His word was as good as his bond, and in all of his business relations he was the soul of honor. He leaves to his children the legacy of a good and honorable name.
Note: There is no stone in Weaver Cemetery for Solomon but there is one large unmarked stone, with just the name WEAVER that might be his. His wife and some of his children and grandchildren are buried there.
Solomon C. WEAVER
August 22, 1913
Clinton Register
DEATH OF S. C. WEAVER.
Texas Township Farmer Dies at the Warner Hospital,
Being Sick About Two Weeks.
Solomon C. WEAVER, who lived on the farm of Mrs. O. M. POND, in Texas township, died at the hospital Wednesday at 11:30 of diabetic gangrene. His death was the result of trimming a corn on a toe of his left foot. At once the corn became sore, but he gave it no attention. In a few days he was in Clinton on business and decided to consult a doctor, who saw him [and advised him] to go to the hospital for treatment, but it was too late. Gangrene had developed and, as he had diabetes, his condition soon became critical and it was realized he could not recover.
Solomon Christopher Weaver was the youngest of a family of nine children, and the son of Solomon and Libbie (NILES) WEAVER. He was born February 17, 1857, on the home farm one and one half miles northwest of Clinton. The brothers and sisters deceased are A. A. WEAVER, A. J. WEAVER, and two brothers who died in infancy. The sisters deceased are Mrs. Clarilda CONVERSE, Mrs. Elizabeth HUSTON and Mrs. Emma RODE.
Deceased is survived by his wife and seven children: Carrie M. STONE, of DeWitt; Evalena CLARK, Clinton; Lawrence, Frank, Charles, Nellie and Solomon Francis, all at home. Besides the above he is survived also by one brother, Oliver W. WEAVER, residing one mile West of Clinton.
He was married to Miss Rebecca J. FINK, Mar. 15, 1877, and they had since resided in DeWitt county. Until a few years ago they lived on the Weaver homestead northwest of Clinton. Then they bought a farm in Rutledge township, which they occupied two or three years. It was sold and 435 acres bought near Hillsboro, N. D. For two or three years the home of the family had been on the Pond farm.
Funeral services were held at the Christian church at 2 o'clock today, conducted by Rev. J. F. Rosborough. Burial in Weaver Cemetery near the old homestead.
Mrs. Cynthia WEBB
March 6, 1914
Clinton Register
FARMER CITY.
Mrs. Cynthia WEBB, aged 78, who died Saturday, was buried in Maple Grove cemetery Monday. Rev. A. J. Zeller conducted the services.
Isaac Newton WEBB
December 9, 1910
Clinton Register
An Old Soldier Dies.
Isaac Newton WEBB died at his home near Clinton Dec. 3, at 7:30 a.m., aged 63 years. He was born near DeWitt, Sept. 21, 1847. In 1870 he was married to Miss Dela SPENCER, who died March 14, 1878. To them, five children were born, two dying in infancy; Mrs. Retta TUGGLE, of Midland City; Mrs. Ada McCLIMANS, near Clinton [and Ira WEBB was left omitted].
Deceased was married to Margaret A. HOWARD, May 1, 1881. To them, 9 children were born, Henry and Frank, near Hallsville; Mrs. Mary ROBEN and Mrs. Jenny BENNETT, near Kenney; Mrs. DUFF, near Maroa; James, Chloe, Oliver and Ivan, at home. He is also survived by two brothers and one sister, Hiram, of St. Clair county, and John, of Clinton, and Mrs. Eliza FLOOD, of Taylorville; he had 23 grandchildren.
In 1863 he enlisted as a recruit in the 41st Ill., Co. F, was transferred to Co. G, 53rd Ill., and was mustered out in 1865. He returned home and engaged in farming, which he followed till a few years ago. He was a Christian, kind husband and father.
The funeral was held at the residence, conducted by Rev. Thos. H. Miller. Burial was in Woodlawn cemetery.
Leo WEBB
1978
Paper Unknown
(Obituary Extract)
Name: Leo WEBB
Born: 12/13/1909 DeWitt County
Died: 12/26/1978
Parents: Alfred and Mary Jane (WILLIS) WEBB
Married: Domenica T. MILANO
03/16/1946 Highwood, IL
Survivors: Wife; son Barth, daughter Maria, Chicago,
IL; three sisters, Mrs. Lola GLENN, rural Clinton; Mrs. Iva THURBER, DeWitt; Mrs.
Leona WUNDERLICH, Galesburg, IL.
Funeral: Graveside services
Burial:
Woodlawn Cemetery
Amos WEEDMAN
May 18, 1900
Clinton Register
DEATH OF AN EX-SHERIFF.
The Man Who Hung Patsey Devine Passes
Away at His Home in Farmer City.
Amos WEEDMAN, who was sheriff of this county three terms, died April 11, after an illness of several weeks, which followed a failing in health of several months duration.
Amos Weedman was born in Ohio May 12, 1826, and died one day before he was 74 years old. When he was 18 years of age his parents came to this state and located in McLean county and he afterward moved to this county. In 1847, Dec. 16, he was married to Miss Mary J. McCORD. Two children, both living at Farmer City, were born to them. They are Rucker and Smith WEEDMAN. In the fall of 1876 he was called from the farm to serve as sheriff, and was reelected. After moving back to Farmer City for a few years, he was again called to fill that office. He was a Republican, but had proper regard for the opinion of those who did not agree with him in politics. One of his duties while sheriff was to hang Patsy DEVINE, who was charged with the murder of Aaron GOODFELLOW, of Bloomington, the case being brought to this county for trial. The case was tried twice and both times the verdict was against the accused. The hanging was on May 12, 1885, the same day of the month as Mr. Weedman’s birth, and he died one day before the fifteenth anniversary of the hanging.
Funeral services were held at Farmer City Sunday at 2 o'clock in the M. E. church, deceased being a member of that church. He was also an Odd Fellow and a Mason. Interment was in the Farmer City cemetery.
Note: He died May 11, not April 11.
--------------------May 1900
Funeral Card
Amos WEEDMAN died at his home in Farmer City, on Friday, May 11, 1900, at 9 a.m., aged 73 years, 11 months, 29 days. Funeral: M. E. Church May 13 - Farmer City Lodge No. 710, A. F. & A. Masons. Burial: Camp Ground Cemetery.
Submitted by Bob Halsey
Mrs. Amos WEEDMAN
September 10, 1909
Clinton Register
Mrs. Mary J. WEEDMAN died at her home in Farmer City Tuesday evening at 4:30 o'clock after an illness of a month from the effects of the grippe.
She was the widow of Amos WEEDMAN, one of the early settlers of DeWitt county who in 1876 was elected sheriff on the Republican ticket and filled the office three consecutive terms and was the executioner of the only man hanged in this county— Patsy Devine. He died about twelve years ago.
Mrs. Weedman was born in Jackson county, Tenn., May 25, 1830. She came to this county in 1834. She was the mother of two children, one of whom, William R., died a few years since. His widow and Mrs. Weedman lived together since. The other, Smith Y., lives on a former home farm of his parents east of this city. Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon in the Farmer City M. E. church.
John WEEDMAN
July 31, 1885
Clinton Publid
Death of John Weedman
The sad news reaches Clinton this morning that Col. John WEEDMAN, of Farmer City, died last night at half-past nine o'clock. Col. Weedman for the past fifteen years has been the leading banker of Farmer City, and he was also largely interested in farming and stock raising. He was a native of Ohio, but came to this county nearly fifty years ago. The Weedman family were among the early settlers in the neighborhood of Farmer City. Owing to the fact of the news coming at the time when THE PUBLIC was going to press, our notice this week is necessarily brief. We will give a more extended account of Col. Weedman next week.
--------------------August 7, 1885
Clinton Public
Death of John Weedman.
The funeral of John WEEDMAN, whose death has already been announced in THE PUBLIC, took place from his residence in West Township, McLean county, on Sunday, August 2, at 10 A.M. Religious service was conducted by Rev. W. S. HOOPER and Rev. James SHAW. The attendance was very large and the solemnity of the occasion, in the presence of the grim messenger and his distinguished victim, inspired Mr. Hooper to put forth the best effort of his life in a funeral discourse. The text used was Proverbs xiii, 22: "A good Man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children; and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just." Mr. Shaw pronounced a eulogy on Mr. Weedman that extolled him to the skies, and certainly exhausted all the terms of praise which properly pertain to the sphere of mortal life, if he did not encroach on the attributes of Divinity. The funeral ceremonies were in charge of the Masonic fraternity, and the members of the order left the Weedman mansion in advance of the procession, forming in line of march on foot and conducted the procession from where it entered town through the streets to the M. E. Church. The cortege was headed in the march through the city by the Farmer City cornet band, which moved slowly and solemnly to the music of a dead march and the sound of the muffled drum, while the church bell was tolling. At the church the Masons were seated in their carriages and the procession moved to the Campground Cemetery, two miles south-west of town, where sleep the father, mother, two brothers and other relatives of the deceased. At the grave the solemn and impressive ceremonies of the order were performed, and our honored brother was consigned to rest, while the richly ornamented and beautiful casket was covered with sprigs of evergreen, the emblem that perpetuates his good name and virtues in the hearts of his sorrowing Masonic brothers. While the procession moved from the church there were one hundred and fifty carriages in line, making it over a mile in length. Mr. Weedman's fine buggy horse was draped in mourning and followed next to the hearse in the procession.
To say that this community is in mourning over the death of John Weedman is but a tame expression of the loss which is felt by his family, his relatives and the people with whom he has mingled and associated from the days of his boyhood up, and where the older he grew the more he was loved and honored. The sorrow of the family and nearer relatives is too deep and poignant to be soothed by any words of sympathy or power save that which "doeth all things well."
When a man like John Weedman is stricken down in the strength and prime of his years the whole community feels the shock. Society in its commercial and social relations with the church and all humane and benevolent enterprises, must suffer in all their varied interests from the untimely, and to us erring mortals, mysterious dispensation. Our mortal scope is circumscribed within limits too feeble and finite to ever comprehend the reason why a man like John Weedman, the favored son of fortune, diffusing light and good to the world wherever he moved, should suddenly have his career of usefulness cut off, and the world deprived of such a benefactor. If we attempt to lift the veil and scrutinize the mystery we find no solution within the range of mortal ken, and must rest the case with the all wise and merciful Father who for some purpose to us unknown has called Mr. Weedman from our midst. Mr. Weedman was a favorite among his brothers and sisters and relatives, all of whom deferred to his opinions and advice on important business matters. The favoritism felt by the relatives of Mr. W. largely pervade the entire community, for it is to his public spirit and enterprise that Farmer City is mostly indebted for its standing and commercial importance. Prosperous in all his private enterprises, wealth flowed into his hands through legitimate channels and without any indirection or overreaching of his neighbors. While abundance crowned his efforts, dying a rich banker, his wealth did not, as it often does its possessors, make him a purse proud nabob, or dry up the fountains of his sympathetic nature. In the midst of his own prosperity he delighted to witness the prosperity of his neighbors, using his money as a blessing to mankind and not hoarding it with the selfish grip of the miser.
The Weedmans and their large family connections including the McCORDS, the WAKEFIELDS, the CUMMINGS, the WILSONS and the RUTLEDGES form an important part in the early history of DeWitt and McLean counties. John Weedman's mother was a Wilson, and he was first cousin to James Wilson the late lamented treasurer of DeWitt county, whom he resembled more than he did his own brothers. Christy Weedman, a sister of John Weedman's father, married Robert Rutledge in 1822, it being the first marriage ever solemnized between white people in McLean county. John Weedman's father was among the early settlers of Hurly's Grove, and after living there for many years, moved to Iowa, where he died and his sons brought his remains back here for interment, and he rests by his first wife in the Campground Cemetery. Isaiah Weedman, brother of the deceased, fell at the battle of Holly Springs, and his brothers brought his remains home and he sleeps in the Campground Cemetery.
John Weedman was the fourth son of John WEEDMAN and Rachael WILSON, and was born in Perry county, Ohio, Feb. 2, 1828. In 1830 his father moved to McLean county, Ill., and settled near Heyworth, and from there he moved to Hurly's Grove in 1836 and improved the farm on which his son George now resides. The subject of this sketch was eight years old when his father moved to this settlement, then a part of McLean county. There were seven stalwart sons of the Weedman family, five of whom sought fortune in the land of golden dreams and went to California in the year 1850. These were Asa, George, Amos, John and Isaiah. The Weedmans were among the early pioneers of this settlement, and the older boys and the father were famous deer hunters, as that game was roaming in great abundance over these prairies and among the brakes of Salt Creek when the Weedmans settled here. Mr. John Weedman was married to Miss Mary A. McDONALD, daughter of Thomas McDONALD, of Mt. Pleasant, now Farmer City, in 1853. The marriage was blessed with four children, two girls and two boys, all of whom and the mother survive the father and husband. The oldest daughter, Miss Josie, a young lady of great accomplishments, was married some five years ago to a Mr. Brodix. At an early day Mr. Weedman secured a tract of land amounting to 950 acres, about half of which was in McLean county and the other half in DeWitt county. The improvement of this magnificent farm on which stands a palatial residence, surrounded with all the beauties of ornament and luxury, has been the life work of its proprietor. On this handsome estate, over whose broad and green pastures herds roamed and ruminated, John Weedman lived and died. About the time the railroads were being built and Mt. Pleasant took the name of Farmer City, John Weedman and his brother-in-law, Wm. Y. McCORD, bought the R. O. Crawford farm of 100 acres and laid it out in town lots. These two gentlemen built a fine steam flouring mill that afterward became the property of William HAYNIE and was burned down a few years since. About the same time John Weedman with Thomas brothers, George and Oscar, established a private bank in Farmer City. The bank continued under the firm name of Thomas Brothers & Weedman till 1876, when the Thomas Brothers withdrew, since which time it has been in the hands of Mr. Weedman, with J. B. LEWIS as cashier.
John Weedman leaves a wealthy estate. Besides his fine farm and bank interest, he owns 50 acres of land in the corporate limits of the city, the Commercial House and a large number of vacant lots and other pieces of real estate in and around this city. Asa Weedman, the oldest of the seven brothers, died at his home near Farmer City nearly twenty years ago, and his remains rest in the Campground Cemetery, so that it seems to be an inherent principle in the Weedman family to cling together in death as they do in life. Four of the seven brothers still survive, Amos, late sheriff of DeWitt county, George, Z. C., and T. S., all well-to-do business men, the latter being the present mayor of this city. There are two sisters who also survive him, the late Mrs. W. Y. McCord, now Mrs. J. C. Rucker, and Mrs. Williams, widow of the late John Williams, of this city. For the grave, Mr. Weedman was dressed in a suit of very fine black cloth, with many floral offerings, handsomely wrought in wreaths and bouquets in and on the casket. The casket was very fine and costly, being of rare wood with massive silver mountings, beautifully and richly carved. We have indulged in no laudations or panegyrics because Mr. Weedman was a man of wealth, nor would we say he was without his foibles for he was human and possessed human nature, and that abiding sense of his own frailty which is the common heritage of all the descendants of Adam filled him with sympathy and good feeling for his race. In conclusion, we say that John Weedman was an upright man before his God, his country and his fellowmen. A model man in the church and all his business relations. In the purer and holier domestic relations of life was where the true man in its noblest phase was shown in the character of John Weedman. Honored friend and brother, we must say adieu, hoping that when life's fleeting hours have passed, we shall all be welcomed with the friendly grip to that lodge above where the solemn notes of the funeral dirge or the tolling bell shall no longer disturb us. Mr. Weedman was nearly 58 years old.
Capt. Zadok C. WEEDMAN
December 16, 1887
Clinton Public
Capt. Zadok C. WEEDMAN, after an illness of less than two hours, from heart disease, died at his home in Farmer City, December 11, 1887, aged 51 years. He was one of the seven sons of that early and sturdy pioneer, Jno. WEEDMAN, Sr., and was born at Randolph's Grove, McLean county, July, 1836. Trained in the school of limited advantages and inconvenience peculiar to the families of early pioneers, he became, as is almost invariably the result of such discipline, one of the most jolly and open-hearted men. This characteristic gave him, through his associates, the familiar name of "Dick," and by that nick-name he was known to a very large circle of acquaintances in Central Illinois.
Captain Weedman was mustered, September 4, 1862, as First Lieutenant of Co. G, 107th Ill. Inf., and on January 3, 1864, was promoted to Captain of the same company and regiment. He was with his command through its campaigns in Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia, until October 25, 1864, when he resigned.
There was very much in the character of Captain Weedman to be admired and emulated. He was a true friend to a great many individuals, very often displaying wonderful unselfish devotion. He belonged to that indispensable class of men who have confidence in their own people, are always disposed to stand by them, and never make unfavorable comparisons of their own communities or individuals. Of a community, county, State or nation made up of such men, it can never be truthfully said that in it "a prophet is not without honor save in his own country and among his own house." Being solicitous for the good name of his city, in every effort made by its people to hold public meetings or entertainments, he labored earnestly for success. This was equally true of him when the good name of his county, State, or nation was involved. No one had any need to doubt where he stood on any question of public interest, for his frankness made it impossible for him to dissemble. Other men have died, and will continue to die, whose places in society will be easier filled than the places made vacant by the death of Zadok C. Weedman.
Note: There may be more to this obituary. This page was copied for another article and this just happened to be on it.
--------------------December 1887
Paper Unknown
Death of Z. C. Weedman.
When it was announced, last Sunday evening, that good-humored, genial, whole-souled “Dick” WEEDMAN was dead, a thrill of mingled surprise and sorrow passed over the city. For eight or ten years past, Mr. Weedman had been a great sufferer from an affection of the heart, but he had always been so hearty and open in his intercourse with every one that it was difficult to realize that he had all the time been so near death’s door. Mr. Weedman was born July 9, 1836, and, consequently was in his fifty-second year when he died. He was married to Miss Rebecca WOLFE in January, 1864, and lived happily with her almost twenty-four years, and now leaves her and an only son, Lawrence, to mourn his loss. Rev. A. T. ORR, of Clinton, who had been his pastor nineteen years ago, preached the funeral sermon, paying an affecting tribute to his social and religious character at that time. His last words were “Jesus, my all.” His remains were laid gently away to rest at the Camp Ground Cemetery, west of this city, immediately after the conclusion of the services at the church, the ceremony at the grave being conducted by Farmer City Lodge, A. F. and A. M. of which he was an honored member. A detachment of the Sons of Veterans fired the final military salute, in recognition of his services as a soldier of the republic. In the death of Z. C. Weedman, the JOURNAL mourns the loss of a true friend. Just four months ago last Monday, we took editorial charge of this paper. On the following day, while standing at the foot of the stairway for a moment, Mr. Weedman came up and offered his hand, introducing himself and declaring his desire to be considered a friend, and such he always was. But now he is gone. The earthly places that knew him once will know him no more forever. Knowing his great, warm, true heart, as we do, we have an abiding hope that his spirit, free from all earth-taints, is now basking in eternal sun-light in the land beyond the clouds and above the storms. Brother, friend,—farewell.
Submitted by John Laughlin
Gertrude WEESE
April 26, 1895
Clinton Public
Gertrude WEESE died at the home of James GLENN, on Wednesday, at the age of twenty years, eight months and nine days. Gertie was totally blind for the last eight years of her life, as the result of sunstroke. The funeral took place yesterday, conducted by Rev. D. MacARTHUR. Interment at Woodlawn.
Aaron WELCH
October 2, 1891
Clinton Public
When the world contemplates a spectacle that approaches the natural, like the death of a good old man who has been permitted to live and enjoy good health far beyond his allotted threescore and ten, the cruelty and shock of death seem to be lost sight of, and instead we see the beautiful sunrise of life fade softly and beautifully into the night of death.
For the past week the death of Uncle Aaron WELSH [WELCH] has been expected. The burden of years had rendered him a feeble victim of bronchial and other troubles, which did their work at six o'clock yesterday morning. He died at the residence of Mrs. T. K. EDMISTON, his eldest daughter, with whom for many years he made his home. Mr. Welsh was born at Oxford, Shenango County, New York, July 19th, 1799. He was therefore ninety-two years, two months and twelve days old. When he was six years of age his parents emigrated to Delaware County, Ohio. His father being elected sheriff of the county, the family removed to Delaware and Aaron entered the academic school at Worthington, Franklin County, taught by Professor Philander CHASE, afterward Governor of Ohio. Among the classmates of Mr. Welsh, many of them known to fame, was his friend William WALKER, afterward first Governor of Kansas.
In 1824 Mr. Welsh and Miss Clarissa DRAKE were married in the County of Delaware. After four years in that county they removed to Tifflin, Ohio, lived there three years, and from thence to McCutcheonsville, in Wyandott County, where Mr. Welsh carried on business as a merchant [for] six years, and in the meantime was appointed postmaster under the administration of President Andrew Jackson. From that town Mr. Welsh moved to Carey, in the same county, where he built a large warehouse, said to be the first ever built on the Mad River and Lake Erie Railway. He carried on an extensive business there for about five years before moving to the then sparsely settled frontier county of Logan, settling at the present town of Huntsville, where for a number of years he continued the mercantile and farming business.
He was in every sense a pioneer in Logan county, Ohio, and many of our people who came here from that county knew Mr. Welsh there in early days. Being a careful financier and a man of wonderful ambition, in 1853 he heard of the marvelous growth of Illinois, and selling out a part of his business came to Clinton, buying a farm east of town and residing in the city limits. Thus, coming to Clinton nearly forty years since, he was also a pioneer and an old settler of this State.
Mr. Welsh is well and widely known in DeWitt County. His life furnishes a splendid example of typical honesty and unswerving devotion to principle. He belonged to the old school of the Baptist Church, and held firmly to the doctrines of that branch till the last. He belonged to the community in Tunbridge township, near Kenney. He was for many years a Democrat in politics, but became a Whig, and when the war broke out, a Republican, to which party he has since been devotedly attached.
Mr. Welsh was most methodical in his business, and up to the last with a clear intellect attended to his finances and business. His aged wife died many years ago, and of five children born, but two survive, Mrs. T. K. EDMISTON, of this city, and Mrs. Lorilla HOGUE, of Bellefontaine, Ohio, who is expected from Ohio to attend the funeral, which will be conducted from the residence of Mrs. T. K. Edmiston at half-past ten o'clock tomorrow morning. The Rev. W. A. HUNTER will officiate.
Note: His last name was Welch.
Mrs. Aaron WELCH
July 30, 1880
Clinton Public
DIED.—July 25, 1880, after a brief illness, Mrs. Clarissa WELSH [WELCH], aged eighty-two years.
Clarissa DRAKE was born in Orange county, New York, July 6th, 1798. In her ninth year the family moved to Delavan county, Ohio. In 1820 she was converted and united with the Marlborough Baptist Church. In this communion she remained a steadfast and honored member to the last, a period of sixty years. In 1825 she was united in marriage to Mr. Aaron WELCH, with whom she passed fifty-five peaceful and happy years. Twenty-six years ago they removed to this county. When health permitted, she was conscientiously regular in attendance at church. In the family she was kind and affectionate. She loved her bible, and delighted in meditating upon it, and in talking with her husband of its teachings. Living, she desired that her life might be passed to the praise of Christ, and, dying, she rejoiced in the immediate prospect of meeting Him. Her bereaved husband, her children (Mrs. T. K. EDMISTON, of this place, and Mrs. H. G. HOGE, of Bellefontaine, Ohio) and kinsfolk and friends mourn her departure.
Mary (McKEE) WELCH
February 15, 1901
Clinton Register
ANOTHER MOTHER CALLED.
The Summons Comes After An Illness
of Nearly Two Months—
Burial Will Be At El Paso.
Mrs. Richard WELCH was taken sick at her home on South Monroe street Dec. 25. After two weeks she was improving so rapidly that she felt there would be no danger in bathing, but she was taken worse soon after and for two weeks there had been little hope of her recovery. During her illness five doctors had been called, one of them a Springfield specialist, and three consultations had been held. Yesterday morning she was able to sit in a chair awhile and seemed no worse than for several days. About 9 o'clock last night she began suffering great pain and died at 3:30 this morning.
Mary McKEE was born in Ireland in 1833 and was 68 years old. She came to his country in 1854 and in 1855 was married to Richard WELCH in Decatur, Ill. A year later they moved on a farm in Woodford county where they lived until about eighteen years ago when they moved to Minonk to enjoy life without hard work, as they had considerable property. Twelve years ago they moved to Clinton and had since made their home here. Three children were born to them, one son having died when 17 years old. The daughters are Mrs. Jas. P. DOOLEY, of Freeport, Ill., and Mrs. Thos. COFFEY, of Wapella.
Funeral at St. John's church Monday morning, solemn high mass at 9 a.m. sharp. Special train will leave for El Paso, where the burial will take place, promptly at 11 o'clock.
Ann WELD
April 24, 1885
Clinton Public
Miss Ann WELD, sister of Edwin and William WELD, died at the residence of Mr. George H. BROWN, about two miles south-east of Clinton, on last Monday morning, in the sixty-seventh year of her age. Miss Weld was a native of Roxbury, Mass., and always lived at the old homestead till the winter of 1882, when she came to Clinton to make her home near her sister and brothers. Since last November she was confined to her home by sickness, but through all her suffering she was ever patient and cheerful. Not a murmur of complaint fell from her lips during her long and tedious illness. Death had no terrors for her, and indeed she often expressed her readiness to change from this to the better land. While at her home in the east Miss Weld was an active member of the First Congregational Church, and her daily life gave evidence that she was a devoted Christian. She leaves a sister and three brothers living near Clinton, and a brother and two sisters in Massachusetts. The funeral services were held at the house of her sister, Mrs. Brown, on Thursday afternoon, the Rev. W. A. HUNTER, officiating, and the deceased was followed to Woodlawn Cemetery by a large company of friends and neighbors.
Daniel M. WELD
July 17, 1891
Clinton Public
Over seventy-seven years ago Daniel M. WELD was born at Jamaica Plains, Mass., and lived on the old homestead farm till December, 1881, when he came west to Illinois to spend the declining years of his life with his brothers and sister, who were old residents in the neighborhood of Clinton. He was rich and a bachelor and had no necessity to exert himself in a contest with the world. Since he came to Clinton he made his home with his sister. For the past six months he has been an invalid, and on Monday evening, July 13, he departed this life, aged seventy-seven years, two months and eleven days. Mr. Weld took no active interest in public affairs since coming to Illinois, beyond voting at the elections. He was a quiet studious gentleman who would rather sit down with his books then mingle in society. He was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery on Thursday forenoon.
Edwin WELD, Sr.
June 19, 1908
Clinton Register
EDWIN WELD, SR., CALLED TO REST.
Leading Resident of Texas Township
Dies Suddenly After an Illness of Several Months.
Edwin WELD, Sr., living one mile south of Clinton, had been sick several months, most of the time being confined to his bed. For about a month he had been able to sit up, and some of the pleasant days last week was out of the house in his invalid chair. He seemed much better and Saturday the family felt more encouraged. About 12 o'clock that night he took malted milk nourishment, and soon afterward became much worse. A doctor was called but he could do nothing to give relief and death came about 3 o'clock.
Edwin Weld was born in Boston, Massachusetts, December 30, 1825, and lived 82 years, 5 months and 14 days. His father was a farmer and he remained on the farm until he was 18 years old when he engaged in the commission business which he followed three years. He then began contracting, and had charge of the work of filling in 70 acres, which are now a part of Boston. He continued in this work there until 1863, when he came to DeWitt county and bought land in Texas township which became the homestead where he spent the rest of this life.
He brought to Illinois a steam shovel; the Illinois Central main line was being built through this county and he took a contract to cut through some of the Salt Creek hills. He then contracted to fill in at the end of the bridge over the Illinois river in LaSalle county. He quit this kind of work in 1858 and began farming. He added to his landed interests until he owned 490 acres in Texas township, part of which is northeast of Maroa, and about 20 acres just south of Clinton. The homestead has two of the best farm residences in the county, one being occupied by his son.
In September 1855 he was married in LaSalle, Illinois, to Miss Emily HILL, daughter of George HILL, father of R. P. Hill of Clinton. To them one son and seven daughters were born, of whom the following, with their mother, survive: Mrs. Clark ALLIS of Medina, New York; Mrs. J. E. HARTSOCK of Dayton, Ohio; Mrs. C. S. BOGARDUS of Clinton; Misses Frances and Nettie at home. Ann died when six years old; Edwin lives near the old home.
Mr. Weld was a member of the Presbyterian church. His first vote was cast for Henry Clay, the Whig candidate, and he had been a Republican since that time. He had held several township offices, among them supervisor, highway commissioner and school treasurer, the latter many years. He was a member of DeWitt lodge No. 84, A. F. and A. M., and Goodbrake Chapter No. 58, R. A. M. He had also taken the Eastern Star degree and was a member of Mystic Chapter No. 131.
Such, in brief, has been the life of a man who sought not, and cared not for the praise of the world. He was unassuming, and was attached to his home from which he was seldom absent, except on business. Perhaps no man ever attended more strictly to the business that was his own, and left the affairs of others to them. His life had been one of usefulness, and he had so lived that seldom, if ever, had he a real enemy. As a neighbor he was accommodating; as a friend he was true; as a man he was honest. His life is worthy of example.
Funeral services were held Tuesday in the home at 2:30 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Charles Davies of Fairbury. The Masons conducted the usual rites of the order at the grave. The pall bearers were John Killough, Jacob Ziegler, C. W. McCord, J. E. Johnson, E. Sylvester and E. Thiebault. Burial was in Woodlawn cemetery.
Henry C. WELD
March 2, 1883
Clinton Public
“IN THE MIDST OF LIFE WE ARE IN DEATH.”
Instantaneous
Death of Henry C. Weld.
When Henry C. WELD left his home on Monday morning [February 26th] to go into the timber, a short distance from his house, for a load of wood, he had every promise of a long life that a vigorous and strong constitution could give to man. But in less than one hour from that time he was a lifeless corpse. Mr. Weld lived on a small farm less than one mile south-east of the city. He had abundant means to take the world easy, but being a man of active temperament he preferred working around home. Monday morning he went to his timber lot with his hired man to get wood, and after loading the wagon, he started toward his home, leaving the man in the timber. While driving across a slough the wagon wheels slipped, and striking against a frozen knob of earth the wagon overturned, throwing Mr. Weld from the top of the load to the ground. He struck the ground with the right side of his face, and the force with which he fell broke his neck. The wood covered him up, leaving only one foot out. The overturning of the wagon broke the coupling pole, and the horses being released went toward the barn, followed by the dog. Mrs. WELD saw the horses coming up toward the house without the wagon or a driver, and thinking some accident had happened, she began calling for her husband. Cornelius CROWLEY, the hired man, heard her at the distance he was from the house, and he immediately started for the house. Coming to the place where the wagon was, he saw Mr. Weld’s foot protruding from under the wood, and at once he began to throw the wood off. He several times called Mr. Weld by name, but did not receive any response. When he had uncovered him he found that Mr. Weld was dead. Crowley went to the house bearing the sad tidings to Mrs. Weld, who was still watching for her husband. The shrieks of the agonized wife attracted the attention of Mr. ADAMS, their nearest neighbor, who went to the rescue as quickly as possible. With the assistance of Mr. Adams the body was placed in a wagon and borne to the house, and a physician was at once sent for. At first the bereaved wife thought that there might still be life in her husband, but when the doctor arrived he at once dispelled all hope.
Coroner MORROW was notified, and in the afternoon he held an inquest. The jury brought in a verdict in accordance with the above facts.
On Wednesday afternoon, at two o’clock, the funeral services were held at the house, conducted by the Rev. O. B. THAYER, after which the body was sent by express to Boston, Mass., to be buried in the Weld family burying ground. Mrs. Weld, the bereaved wife, and Mr. Edwin WELD accompanied the body to the east.
Henry C. Weld was born in Jamaica Plains, Mass., on the 24th of November, 1830. He was the youngest of a family of ten children, eight of whom are still living. Three of the brothers and two sisters live near this city, the other members of the family still living in the east. Three years ago last month Henry C. Weld left the old home farm, on which he had lived for fifty years, and came to Clinton to join his brothers and sisters. His coming at first was only an experiment, but the country suited him and he concluded to make his home here. He bought the property known as the old fair ground, and with his taste and experience was making the place one of the finest in this county. Being a man of ample means, there was no necessity of his working, yet he was of that industrious nature that would not permit him to be idle for a moment if anything required attention. There was only himself and wife to provide for, his five children having passed from earth to heaven in their youth. Mr. Weld was a quiet, unobtrusive gentleman, and was slow to make acquaintances. He was quite a student and devoted his leisure hours among his books. Mrs. Weld goes to her old home in Boston and will not return to Clinton.
Rachel (GIDDINGS) WELD
November 1, 1901
Clinton Register
A MOTHER CALLED TO REST.
Died at Her Home in Clinton Early Yesterday
Morning—
Funeral Will be Held Saturday.
The death of Mrs. Rachel WELD was a surprise to her family and friends. While she had not been in good health, none thought death was near. For a few days she had been troubled with a cold, and Wednesday night was taken suddenly sick and died about 5 o'clock yesterday morning, aged 65 years, 3 months and 24 days. Funeral services at the home on North Jackson Avenue tomorrow at 2:30, conducted by Rev. S. C. BLACK. Interment in Woodlawn cemetery.
Rachel E. GIDDINGS was born in Mechanicsburg, O., July 7, 1836. When she was twelve years old her parents, Milton and Sarah GIDDINGS, came to Clinton where she was married to John HICKMAN Sept. 22, 1853. Two children were born to them; both are dead. September 12, 1870, she was married William WELD. They lived on a farm one mile south of Clinton many years. About ten years ago they moved to Clinton where Mr. Weld died Mar. 12, 1895. Besides her daughters, Fannie and Mrs. Ella TENNANT, a brother, Milton GIDDINGS, lives in Gainesville, Fla., a former merchant of Clinton. She united with the Presbyterian church many years ago and remained true to her master.
Submitted by Bob Halsey
William WELD
March 15, 1895
Clinton Public
Clinton is having its share of deaths, several having crossed the borderland with hardly a moment's warning. William WELD, one of our old citizens, was in apparent good health last Saturday morning when he arose from his bed. In a moment, while in his barn, he was stricken with paralysis, and on Tuesday morning he had joined the silent majority. Death is always busy in the winter time, and especially so among the old folks who cannot hold out against the oft changes in the weather. In early years the machinery of the body runs along with scarcely an ache or pain, and then as the hair begins to frost suddenly a cog is slipped, the wheels stop, and life comes to an end. In every home there are vacant chairs, and every human heart holds sacred memories of lips that laughed once and now are faded forever; of eyes that shone with love and tenderness and then grew dim and sightless. Death is the old unchanging fashion.
It came with sadness and suddenness into the home of the Weld family last Tuesday morning when it laid its icy hand on a beloved husband and father. William Weld was in his seventy-fifth year, and while not a strong man physically yet he had taken all the precautions necessary to make his life healthful. Last Saturday morning he went out to his barn to attend to the chores when he was stricken down with apoplexy. On Sunday he had a second stroke, and then his physician could hold out no hope to his family. He died on Tuesday morning.
William Weld was born at Jamaica Plains, Mass., on February 4th, 1821. He was given a good common school education, and at the age of seventeen he went to Boston to learn the copperplate, steel-plate, and lithographic printing. After serving an apprenticeship of five years he was appointed foreman of the lithographic department in the same house, which was then a new line in printing. He held the position of foreman for fifteen years, and then his health failed and he was compelled to leave the printing office. In 1857 he came west and located on a farm about two miles south of Clinton, and there he lived till 1892, when he retired from farming and came to Clinton to enjoy a well-earned leisure during his remaining years. He owned three hundred and eleven acres in his home farm, and he and his family lived on the fat of the land. On September 12, 1870, he was united in marriage to Mrs. Rachel HICKMAN, and three children came to bless their home. The first-born died in infancy, and two daughters with Mrs. Weld survive the husband and father.
Mr. Weld was a man of culture. In politics he was an uncompromising Republican. He was not a seeker after office although the people of his township made him road commissioner and school director. He was a just man in all his dealings, and his heart and his pocket-book always responded to calls for benevolence.
The funeral services were held at his home in this city yesterday afternoon, conducted by Dr. HUNTER, after which the remains of William Weld were laid to rest in Clinton's beautiful city of the dead—Woodlawn.
David D. WELDON
November 1, 1875
Bloomington Pantagraph
THE LAST SAD RITE.
Yesterday, the funeral services of David D. WELDON, son of Hon. Lawrence WELDON, were held at their residence on Grove street. David had been very sick for some time, but up to a recent period the disease (diphtheria) was not considered likely to terminate fatally. Hopes of his recovery were given up on Friday, and at about twelve o'clock that night he breathed his last. It was a terrible blow to the family, as he was the pet of the household, and being a warm-hearted boy he fully returned the love bestowed upon him.
The services were conducted by the Rev. Mr. Maclean, of Clinton, assisted by Rev. Mr. Taggart, pastor of the First Presbyterian church of this city. The singing was by the choir of the church, and was of a beautiful and touching character. When Mrs. C. S. Tarbox sang, accompanied by the choir, "Come, ye disconsolate," there was hardly a dry eye.
The cortege which followed the remains to their last earthly abode was very large, as "Davie" was a great favorite with both the old and young, and the sorrow of the parent is also felt by a large circle of acquaintances.
Lawrence WELDON
April 14, 1905
Clinton Register
DEATH OF JUDGE WELDON.
Dies After Ten Days’ Illness in
Washington Where He Was Attending to Official Duties.
Judge Lawrence WELDON, of Bloomington, one of the able men of Illinois, died in Washington, D. C., Monday evening. He was a member of the court of claims and was in Washington on official business. Ten days before his death he was taken sick but his condition was not thought to be critical until Monday when his son, L. H. WELDON, of Bloomington, was telegraphed; at noon he and his sister, Mrs. W. C. HANNA, of Peoria, left for Washington, but they arrived after his death, which was caused by liver and bowel trouble. Col. and Mrs. V. WARNER were present when death came. He died in the Hamilton hotel in which his former law partner, Gen. John McNulta, died about eight years ago.
Col. Warner said: Outside Judge Weldon’s own family, I don't think there can be anyone to whom his death will bring so much sorrow and sense of loss as it does to myself. In my boyhood and throughout my manhood, Lawrence Weldon has been a friend, consular and companion and in all these relations he was loyal and true. In my boyhood I studied law in his office in Clinton and from his office I went when I enlisted. I was later associated with him in the practice of law in Illinois and it has been my good fortune to be very close to him in Washington during my life in this city. Next to my own father and my father-in-law, he was the nearest and dearest friend I had on earth, and no man ever had a truer friend than he who has just left us.
Judge Lawrence Weldon was born in Madison county, O., Aug. 15, 1829, and was educated in the common schools in Madison county, London academy and Wittenberg college, although he is not a graduate of the latter. He was admitted to the bar in Ohio in 1854, and studied law under Judge Harrison. In December of the same year he was married to Miss Mary Jane HOWARD. Judge Weldon was clerk in the secretary of state’s office in Ohio in 1853 and 1854. He removed to Clinton, Ill., in 1854, where he practiced law for a number of years and he is believed to be the only lawyer living who traveled the circuit with Abraham LINCOLN when Judge David DAVIS was district judge. He was a presidential elector in 1860 and voted the Republican electoral ticket when Abraham Lincoln was nominated. He was appointed district attorney in 1861, serving several years. He was a member of the legislature in 1861 to 1866 and in 1867 moved to Bloomington, where he practiced law until 1883, when he was appointed by President ARTHUR judge on the court of claims at Washington, which position he held at the time of his death. He was a close friend of Lincoln and Douglas, and had been prominent in the State’s history many years.
The remains, accompanied by Mrs. Weldon and her two children, arrived in Bloomington yesterday at 2:30 and funeral services were held in the Presbyterian church.
Mrs. Lawrence WELDON
March 18, 1910
Clinton Register
Death of Mrs. Weldon.
Mrs. Mary WELDON, widow of the late Judge Lawrence WELDON, died this morning at her home in Bloomington, aged about 75 years. Mr. and Mrs. Weldon came to Clinton about 1850, and he practiced law here until 1867, when they moved to Bloomington. She is survived by a daughter in Bloomington and a son, L. H. WELDON, of Bloomington. Her husband died about eight years ago.
Mrs. Mattie WERNER
February 27, 1885
Clinton Public
Mrs. Mattie WERNER, wife of Mr. A. M. WERNER, the Decatur agent for the American Express company, died last Saturday of an attack of Bright’s disease. Mr. and Mrs. Werner were former residents of Clinton, and her mother and sister yet reside here. Mrs. Werner was a woman who was beloved by all who had the pleasure of her acquaintance. She was an active worker in the M. E. Church, and in the temperance cause.
Frank W. WESCOTT
June 19, 1908
Clinton Register
AGED RAILROAD MAN DEAD.
Frank W. WESCOTT, a pioneer railroad man and a former engineer on the Illinois Central, but who has been retired for a number of years, expired Monday at St. Francis hospital in Freeport, aged 78. He was born in New York and began railroading in the East. In 1854, he came to the west and entered the service of the Illinois Central at Shippingsport until the completion of the bridge across the Illinois river. He was then promoted to engineer on a construction train engaged in laying track between Clinton and Decatur. When that branch was completed he had the honor of taking the first train over the division, between Wapella and Centralia. In 1855 Mr. Wescott was promoted to the passenger service between Amboy and Clinton, where he remained continuously for thirty-six years. Mr. Wescott was the only living member of the original organization of the Brotherhood of the Footboard, receiving the original work from the organization in Freeport in 1861. The order was afterwards known at the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, in which Mr. Wescott always took an active part. He was never married. Burial was at Amboy.
Rev. David WETZELL
February 15, 1895
Clinton Public
Rev. David WETZELL died in San Francisco, Cal., on last Saturday, being the result of a dangerous surgical operation for the new fad called appendicitis. The deceased was a native of Virginia, but when he was a child his parents moved to this State and settled in Farmer City, where they still make their home. He was forty years of age. Rev. Wetzell was a prominent minister in the Christian Church, having entered the ministry when he was a young man. For a time he was pastor of the church at Maroa, and then went to Portland, Oregon, and later to Woodland, Cal., where he had charge of a large church and was on the top wave of popularity as an eloquent minister. He leaves a wife and four children. His remains will be brought to Farmer City for interment.
Thomas WHARTON
January 13, 1893
Clinton Public
Thomas WHARTON, a farmer living north of Farmer City, was fatally wounded last Tuesday [Jan. 10]. He was butchering hogs and killed them with a rifle. His twelve-year-old boy picked up the loaded rifle when it accidentally went off and the bullet entered Mr. Wharton’s breast. His wife was so overcome by the sad news that she fell down a flight of stairs in her home and broke one of her legs.
Erva Francis WHEELER
November 9, 1906
Clinton Register
Erva Francis WHEELER, son of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. WHEELER, was born Sept. 7, 1905, and died Nov. 3, 1906. The bereaved parents have the sympathy of all their friends. Funeral was held in the Big church in Lane, conducted by Rev. T. H. Miller and burial in Rose cemetery. The parents thank all who assisted them during the sickness and burial of their child.
Fannie (DRUEIN) WHEELER
January. 19, 1954
Clinton Daily Journal
MRS. JAMES WHEELER, 64, CLINTON, DIES IN LOCAL HOSPITAL.
Mrs. Fannie Alice WHEELER, 64, Clinton, died at 1 a.m. Sunday in John Warner Hospital.
She was born August 12, 1889 at Buffalo, KY., a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Greenberry DRUEIN and was married to James W. WHEELER at Buffalo, KY., October 16, 1907. He survives with two sons, Virgil and David, Clinton, and one daughter Mrs. Ruby WALLS, Clinton; nine grandchildren; one brother, Joseph of Bloomington, IL.; and sister, Celia Miller PRATHER, Paducah, KY. Preceding her in death were three sisters and three brothers.
She was a member of the Southern Baptist Church. Funeral services will be in the Pullen & Boos chapel at 2 p.m. Tuesday in charge of Rev. B. F. Junkins of the Christian Church. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery.
Submitted by Pat Lassonde
Alexander WHITAKER
May 1901
Funeral Card
Alexander WHITAKER died at the home of his son near Argenta, on Monday, May 13, 1901, at 8:30 a.m., aged 88 year, 6 months, 17 days. Funeral: M. P. Church, May 15. Burial; City Cemetery.
Eli WHITE
July 16, 1880
Clinton Public
Eli WHITE, formerly a resident of Wilson township, died near Wichita, Kansas, on the 3d of July. His wife died last March in California. Mr. White left this county early in March to make his home in California. Within a few days after his arrival in that State his wife died, and then Mr. White returned to Kansas to live with Mrs. Cavier, his daughter.
Note: Eli was buried in Highland Cemetery in Wichita, Sedgwick County, Kansas.
Mrs. Eli WHITE
April 2, 1880
Clinton Public
About the 8th of March, Mr. Eli WHITE and family started for California. They arrived in Marysville, Cal., March 18th. Mrs. White, an aged lady, and for some years in feeble health, died March 21st. Riter WHITE and wife started back for this county on the 20th inst.
Elizabeth WHITE
December 1898
Funeral Card
Elizabeth WHITE died at her here in Farmer City, on Saturday, December 3, 1898, aged 69 years, 2 months, 18 days. Funeral: M. E. Church, December 5.
Eva WHITEHEAD
Date Unknown
Paper Unknown
Suffering Ends for Eva Whitehead, Ill Past Several Months
Miss Eva WHITEHEAD, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James H. WHITEHEAD, of near Craig in Texas township, passed away Saturday evening at 7 o’clock in her home after an illness of several months, death coming as a relief to almost unbearable suffering. Miss Whitehead was well known in Clinton, and will be missed in Texas township, where she had lived her entire life and where she was always ready to render neighborly assistance in sickness or trouble. She enjoyed a wide circle of sincere friends whose grief occasioned by her passing is lessened by the knowledge that a long and severe suffering is ended.
She had been in failing health the past several months. In March she submitted to a serious operation, performed in the John Warner hospital in this city, but failed to gain. Soon afterward she was removed to her home at her wish, and there she continued to grow worse suffering intensely, but bearing her suffering with fortitude, until the end came Saturday night.
Eva Whitehead was 41 years of age, being born in Texas township one mile south of the present Whitehead home farm on the hard road just south of Craig, March 16, 1884. She had always resided there, and had attended the Texas school. She was a member of the Texas Christian church and Sunday school.
Besides her parents, Mrs. and Mrs. James H. Whitehead, she leaves the following sisters and brothers: Mrs. Myrtle HAINES, Decatur; Louie WHITEHEAD of Texas township; Mrs. Sylvia COOPER of Texas township; Leonard and James WHITEHEAD of Clinton; Misses Opal and Leafy and Harvey WHITEHEAD at home. One brother, Eddie A., died in infancy.
Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock from the Texas Christian church and interment in the Texas cemetery.
Submitted by Debbie Champion
Harry WHITEHEAD
February 27, 1903
Clinton Register
KILLED BY FALLING TREE.
Young Man Found Dead in the Timber Near
Weldon by His Father and Brother.
Monday afternoon David WHITEHEAD, a farmer four miles west of Weldon, and his sons Robert and Harry went to the timber to cut and haul wood. They cut one load and the father and Robert took it to the home. They were gone a short time, but when they returned they found Harry dead near the place where they had left him. His neck was broken but there were no marks to indicate he had received a blow, and he lay several feet from the tree he had been chopping down. It is thought the tree sprung back, striking him on the neck, and he walked a few steps before death resulted. He was 19 years old and was hard-working and honest. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon.
Julia (FIELDS) WHITEHEAD
1929
Paper Unknown
Mrs. J. D. Whitehead, Dewitt, Dies After Paralytic Stroke.
(Obituary Extract)
Name: Mrs. Julia D. (FIELDS) WHITEHEAD
Date: 1929
Born: 1851
Survivors: Husband, children: Charles, Robert and Andrew WHITEHEAD, Mrs. Clyde
GOBLE and Mrs. Maude BOSSERMAN.
Funeral: Monday at 2:30 p.m. from the Dewitt
Presbyterian church.
Burial: Dewitt Cemetery
Submitted by Debbie Champion
W. C. WHITEMAN
May 12, 1911
Clinton Register
W. C. WHITEMAN DIES.
C. W. Williamson received a message Thursday announcing the death of an old-time friend and business associate, W. C. WHITEMAN, which occurred at Donovan, Illinois, at 10:30 Wednesday night after a brief illness.
Deceased was one of the best known and highly respected men in the western section of the county and counted his friends by the score. He had been a resident of Waynesville over 50 years, 40 years of which he was engaged in the drug business. In 1873 he formed a partnership with C. W. WILLIAMSON, which continued until 1889 when Mr. Williamson sold his interest and came to Clinton. In the same year he formed a partnership with Dr. S. A. GRAHAM, which continued for six years. About a year ago, Mr. Whiteman decided to give up active business life and, selling his store, he purchased a farm near Donovan, in Montgomery county, where he had since resided with his son-in-law.
He was an active member of the Presbyterian church, and for many years was superintendent of the Sunday school. He was a member of the Odd Fellows in which order he ranked high. Besides the wife, deceased leaves his business associates and a host of friends to mourn the loss of a straightforward honest man.
Several friends from this city, among them Dr. S. A. Graham, C. W. Williamson, G. K. Ingham, Wm. Booth, Fred Ball and Wm. Price, attended the funeral which was held in Waynesville this morning at ten o'clock.
Mrs. WHITEMAN was not able to be present at the last rites of her deceased husband because of her serious illness.
Ida WHITSON
January 24, 1896
Clinton Public
Died of Heart Disease.
Ida WHITSON, aged 26 years, died suddenly at an early hour Saturday at her brother's home, about four miles northeast of Clinton. Coroner JONES went out and held an inquest. The woman had been under the medical care of Dr. HYDE. For some time she had been despondent and low-spirited, especially at the thought of having to return to her home in the southern part of the state, and more than once was heard to say that she would rather die than go home. Dr. Hyde, however, at the inquest this morning, said that the girl had not committed suicide, but that the cause of her death was heart failure. The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the doctor's testimony. She lived but a few minutes after the first spasm seized her. The coroner's jury was composed of P. K. WILSON, Robt. JOHNSON, James FOSTER, Peter WILLIAMS, Charles TUGGLE and Harve GRIFFITH. The county furnished the coffin and remains were sent to Jefferson county, Ill., where relatives reside.
Stephen N. WHITSON
February 8, 1901
Clinton Register
TAKEN IN STRONG MANHOOD.
DeWitt County Farmer Died While Visiting
His Mother in Southern Illinois.
One of the saddest deaths that we have been called upon to report is that of S. N. WHITSON, one of Harp township's best known farmers. He was in the prime of life and seemingly in the best of health. About three weeks ago he went to Dix, Ill., to visit his mother, Mrs. Geo. ARNETT, and other relatives. Thursday after his arrival he was taken suddenly sick, and his recovery was in doubt from the first, and death resulting Feb. 1 at 4:30 in the afternoon. The physician pronounced his disease grip and pneumonia. His wife and children were at his bedside when death came.
Stephen N. Whitson was born in Jefferson county, near Mt. Vernon, Ill., March 24, 1864. He came to this county over twenty years ago, and on March 4, 1881, was married to Miss Gertrude WOODS, daughter of Mrs. Mary WOODS, of this city, and a sister of Mrs. E. H. PORTER. To them three children were born, who with his wife are left to mourn the loss of a kind father and husband. He was the eighth to die of a family of eleven children, all being buried in the same cemetery near Dix, Ill. A sister and a brother live in Jefferson county, and a sister lives in Nebraska. For several years he lived on P. K. WILSON's farm near Birkbeck, and was a successful farmer. He had many friends who were pained to learn of his death. He was honest and upright in all his dealings and was a good citizen.
Funeral services were held in a church near Dix Sunday at 3 o'clock, interment in Antioc cemetery near the church.
Mrs. Mary Ann WHITTICO
August 23, 1889
Mrs. Mary Ann WHITTICO died at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. E. A. PENNEY, of this city, Monday, August 19, 1889, aged 67 years. Mrs. Whittico was born in Kentucky, April, 1822, and married to Mr. WHITTICO in 1839. She was the mother of nine children, of whom only Mrs. Penney survives. Mrs. Whittico has been a member of the M. E. Church since 1844. Funeral services were held at the house of her daughter, Tuesday, at ten o’clock, by Rev. W. A. HUNTER.
Charles E. WIDING
May 21, 1886
Clinton Public
A Sad Accident.
Charles Eugene WIDING, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. O. F. WIDING, aged one year, nine months and five days, was drowned on Saturday, May 15, 1886. Mrs. WIDING, with her two children, went on that day to cook dinner for the hands in Mr. SEABORG's shop, Mrs. SEABORG having gone to Clinton. About noon, she missed the little one, and on making search found his lifeless body in the cistern. The funeral services were conducted by pastor A. H. WIDNEY, at the M. P. Church, on Sunday, at three o'clock p.m. A very large and attentive congregation were present. The rostrum was graced with flowering plants, and the coffin with wreaths of white flowers, Mr. and Mrs. Widing have the sympathies of the Home Circle and of all their neighbors. On Tuesday the brother and sister of Mrs. W. came from Chicago, but too late for the funeral.
John WIGHTWICK
December 1, 1899
Clinton Register
John WIGHTWICK, one of the oldest and best known citizens of Clinton, died Wednesday night at the home of his daughter at Berwyn, near Chicago. About two months ago he went there on a visit, accompanied by his wife and daughter, Miss Elizabeth. He was taken sick and died of heart failure.
John Wightwick was born in Kent, England, about 75 years ago, and came to this country nearly fifty years ago. When he first came to Illinois he was in business in Aurora, and came to Clinton about forty years ago, and this had since been his home. For many years he clerked in the store of his brother-in-law, R. R. CRANG. He was married in his native country, and there are four children living. He was supervisor of Clintonia township one term, being elected in 1878. He was also deputy county treasurer. In 1874 he received considerable inheritance money from England which enabled him to take life easy in his old age.
The family will arrive here today at 3 o'clock with the remains. Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon, but the time has not been fixed.
Submitted by Sheryl Byrd
Lemuel WIKOFF
December 25, 1914
Clinton Register
MAROA CITIZEN PASSED AWAY.
Had Lived More Than Four-Score
Years, and Over Sixty Years in or Near Maroa.
Lemuel WIKOFF died Friday night at his home in Maroa aged nearly 81 years, having been stricken with paralysis five days before. He was born in Butler county, Ohio, Jan. 15, 1824 [1834].
In 1854 he came to Illinois and settled in Sangamon county, where he resided for three years. He moved to Decatur where he conducted a dairy from 1857 to 1860. In 1863 he moved from Decatur to DeWitt county. In 1865 he moved to a farm three miles southwest of Maroa, where he purchased eighty acres of prairie land. He endured all of the hardships of the early farmer and by frugality continued to buy up rich farm land near that place.
His land holdings aggregate about 1,000 acres of rich farm land, all in Macon county, besides other property. In the 60’s and 70’s he experienced much hard work in draining the swamp land.
Mr. Wikoff was married Nov. 27, 1855 to Miss Sarah A. WIKOFF, a distant relative. She died eight years ago. He is survived by six children. They are: Mrs. Ollie L. LYMAN, Richard B. WIKOFF, J. E. WIKOFF, W. A. WIKOFF and F. O. WIKOFF, all of the vicinity of Maroa, and C. W. WIKOFF, of Decatur. He also leaves seventeen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held in the Maroa Methodist church Monday at 10 o'clock. Burial in the Maroa Cemetery.
George F. WILKINSON
December 14, 1906
Clinton Register
DEATH OF A MURDERER.
George F. WILKINSON, the murderer of Dr. L. S. CHAPINI of Saybrook, is dead. He died at the asylum at Jacksonville where he was taken from here and he died without making any signs of sanity or giving the attendants any reason to believe that he was not what he seemed to be, a man without mind or memory.
Word was received by friends at Farmer City, stating that Mr. Wilkinson had died; this being the first intimation that had been received that he was any worse than he had been for some time. J. B. NOWLIN, of Farmer City, went to Jacksonville to take care of the remains and prepare them for shipment to Canton, S. D., where Wilkinson’s daughter lives.
The attendants who had been in personal charge of Wilkinson for the past four months, as well as those who had watched him during the two years that he had been an inmate of the asylum, say that they have no doubt of the man’s insanity, and that he was not shamming as had been partly believed. The attendants say that they had never heard him utter a sound while in charge of him, with the exception of a groan about ten hours before his death.
Wilkinson was the man who shot down Dr. L. S. Chapin, of Saybrook, without provocation as far as anyone ever knew. The deed was committed in August 1904. Wilkinson, as will be remembered, met Dr. Chapin on the street in front of the Chapin residence and fired at him. Wilkinson then walked down town and gave himself up. He admitted the killing and told a story of his reasons to the sheriff when he was first brought to the jail here. Within a few hours after coming here, he began to show signs of derangement and within a few days he was apparently a mental wreck. He did not seem to recognize anyone and did not speak and never spoke from a time a few hours after his incarceration in the jail here.
Wilkinson was brought into the court room stretched on a cot. He was apparently oblivious of his surroundings and the proceedings finding him insane were completed in circuit court as the man was under indictment and arrest for murder. Those who were present will long remember the sight of the white bearded old man stretched on the cot before the judge, with eyes open but apparently seeing nothing.
After his removal to Jacksonville, Wilkinson grew better physically, so that he walked about, but if he was shamming he kept it up to the last and at no time gave signs of either understanding or being able to speak.
It is a matter of relief on all sides that Wilkinson has passed away. He was an old and feeble man and his trial, had he recovered reason enough to be brought before the court, would have been a painful one. As he had never exhibited any signs of insanity before the murder, it was believed that the confused mental condition would pass away and that he would gradually recover and perhaps could be brought here to answer for his crime.
He went to his death with no sign and the mystery of the murder of Dr. Chapin will remain unsolved. —Pantagraph
The murdered man was a son of S. A. CHAPIN, formerly of DeWitt and an uncle of H. A. CHAPIN, of Clinton, and was known to many in this county, his boyhood home.
Charles WILLIAMS
November 16, 1883
Clinton Public
Sudden Death Near Parnell.
Charles WILLIAMS was a carpenter who lived in Farmer City. He was engaged in building a house within two miles of Parnell and boarded with the farmer who owned the property. Williams and his partner on the job had about finished the building, having only half a day’s work to complete the odds and ends. On Wednesday night he retired to bed in seeming perfect health. Before daylight yesterday morning his partner, who occupied the bed with him, was awakened by hearing Williams groan as if in great pain. He tried to arouse Williams, but failed. Then he called the man of the house, who was then building the morning fire. Together the two raised up Williams in a sitting posture in the bed, when he gave but one or two gasps and died. Coroner MORROW was dispatched for, but before he arrived at Parnell the friends of Williams had him in a coffin and the hearse waiting to carry the corpse to Farmer City. However, the coroner was satisfied that there was no necessity for an inquest. The doctors think that death was caused by either heart disease or the rupture of a blood vessel in the head. Williams had lived in Farmer City for a number of years, where he was highly esteemed. He leaves a wife.
Ida (HUNTER) WILLIAMS
March 1941
Paper Unknown
FORMER RESIDENT DIES IN DECATUR.
Mrs. Ida WILLIAMS, 84, a former resident of Clinton, died Wednesday night in her home in Decatur after an illness of two years. Funeral services will be held at 2:45 p.m. Saturday in the Moran Funeral chapel, Decatur. Burial will be in Woodlawn cemetery, Clinton, the funeral party arriving here about 4:20 p.m. She was born in Breckenridge, Ky., February 16, 1857, and twice married, both husbands preceding her in death. She is survived by two sons, C. Everett SMITH, Lincoln, and Carl SMITH, Springfield, and two daughters, Mrs. Fay BORN, Springfield, and Mrs. Maurine SNOKE, Decatur. She was a member of the Baptist church and Women's Relief Corps.
Note: Ida was the daughter of Urijah and Mary Ann (Beckwith) Shields Hunter. She was the wife of William A. Smith and William Lewis Williams. William and Ida are buried in Woodland Cemetery, Clinton, DeWitt County, Illinois.
Submitted by Edd Marks
Rev. John WILLIAMS
November 3, 1899
Clinton Register
Rev. John WILLIAMS, brother of L. B. WILLIAMS, of this city, died in Arkansas two weeks ago, aged 40. He was pastor of a Baptist church until his sickness began. He lived in Clinton about 30 years ago.
Submitted by Sheryl Byrd
Lewis B. WILLIAMS
August 9, 1912
Clinton Register
ANOTHER VETERAN ANSWERS CALL.
READY AND WILLING TO GO.
L. B. Williams, Well Known to Clinton Citizens Died Sunday Morning.
Near the break of day Sunday morning at 3:30, L. B. WILLIAMS, one of the best known residents of Clinton, breathed his last at the home of his step-daughter, Mrs. T. O. BEATTY, at 715 North Monroe street.
For the past three years Mr. Williams had been a sufferer from asthma and heart trouble and, during an attack last March, when he was cared for by Mrs. Beatty, he told her that his time here was short, that the next attack would be the last when no one would again be called upon to care for him. He also spoke of what he wished done in regard to his funeral, telling where and how he wished to be laid away, and named two of his favorite hymns, "Beulah Land," and "Nearer My God To Thee."
Mr. Williams had rooms over Hower's bakery, and was apparently in good health until last Friday evening. On the morning of that day he took a ride with Philip WOLFE in his auto, and on his return remarked that he was feeling fine. Friday evening some of his friends saw him stagger and fall near I. N. BAILER's hardware store, and ran to his assistance. Dr. BABCOCK, Mr. Williams' physician, was just crossing the square and placed him in his auto and took him at once to the home of Mrs. Beatty. His condition did not improve, and about two hours before his death he suffered a stroke of paralysis, and this with his other ailments and advanced age soon terminated his life.
L. B. Williams was born in Marion county, Tennessee, March 4, 1832, and had passed his 80th anniversary. In 1841 he removed with his father to Missouri, and in 1854 was married to Miss Elizabeth C. LIVELY. Five children were born to them, all having preceded their father to the beyond except one daughter, Mrs. Sarah E. BURKHART, of Duluth, Minn. The latter is an invalid and could not attend the funeral. Mrs. Williams died in 1863.
In 1866, Mr. Williams was married to Sarah I. CONKLIN, of Clinton. One daughter, Mrs. Lavina FULLER, is the surviving child of this union.
Mr. Williams followed farming in his younger days, obtaining what education he could, and for a time studied medicine, but the latter calling did not suit his tastes and he returned to the farm. He was living in Missouri during the "border war," and being a staunch unionist cast his vote for Abraham LINCOLN in 1860. His was the only ballot cast for the Emancipator in the county in which he was living, and he left that section shortly after the election. He enlisted with the Missouri Home Guards, serving several months, and when he heard the call for volunteers, enlisted with the 17th Illinois Cavalry. The following sketch of his war experience was dictated by deceased shortly before his last illness.
"We fought twice of Flat Creek and then retreated to Springfield. Enroute, arriving at Elm Springs, we sent to Springfield for help, and Col. SOLOMON, with a regiment, met us at Dug Out Springs just in the nick of time, as we had only three rounds of ammunition each. Col. Solomon formed an ambush and made a stand. He planned for us to make a run through his lines in order to draw the rebels on, which was successfully done, and Solomon cut them all to pieces. That drove them back and we proceeded to Springfield.
On the night of August 10, the rebels came to Wilson Creek and General LYONS marched out to meet them. Fighting began at 6 o'clock in the morning in a pouring rain and continued six hours. For two hours and forty-five minutes our brigade was within 40 to 100 feet of the foe, three lines deep; the first laying down, the second on their knees and the third standing. The cavalry was fighting on the left all this time in a hand-to-hand struggle. Then we ran out of ammunition and were called to the rear to stock up and get water. When we were all ready we were suddenly attacked by 1500 Texas rangers. Col. Solomon, with his cool head, commanded us to hold fire until he fired then take deliberate aim and each bring down a man. We waited till they were right upon us, then the fun began. When it was ended, I never saw so many empty saddles."
One incident in the life of Mr. Williams has not been known, except to a few Clinton friends to whom he told the story within the last few weeks. He was sent as a spy into a rebel camp and was captured. In his pockets were papers that revealed his mission. He was sentenced to be shot the next morning. That night he was locked in a corn crib and a Rebel put on guard.
Mr. Williams resolved when starting on his mission that, if captured, he would not allow the Rebels to shoot him, as he knew they would if they learned of his purpose. Firm in his resolve, he concealed in his boot a deadly drug. This the enemy did not find, and during the night he gave a negro money to buy him a bottle of whiskey to use in taking the drug. While he was preparing the death dose, the guard asked what he had. When told, he requested a drink, which was given him. Soon he asked for more and got it. While he was talking to his prisoner, he fell to the ground unconscious. He lay near the crib, and Mr. Williams reached through a crack and pulled him close enough to get his keys from his pocket; unlocking the door, made his escape and returned to his regiment.
Thus far it was pleasant enough for Mr. Williams, but he later learned something that forever left a sad place in his heart. Two days later the Northern army won a battle and took many prisoners, among them the lieutenant who had sentenced Mr. Williams to be shot, and from him it was learned the guard died from the effects of the drug.
While Mr. Williams realized that if he had not given the guard the drugged whiskey he would have been shot, he did not expect the dose would cause the death of the man who stood between him and escape. Those to whom he told the story say he told it reluctantly and would say little about it, further than to express a feeling of regret that the young man died.
Following the close of the war, Mr. Williams followed farming in this county several years, later going to Gibson City. He returned to Clinton in 1876, being for a time engaged in draying. He followed the latter calling until failing health compelled his retirement from hard work.
Mr. Williams had been a faithful member of the M. E. church for 43 years, was a member of the G. A. R. and was proud of the I. O. O F. badge which he wore as an emblem of 25 years of good standing in that order.
He was a man known and liked by all, and his familiar face will be missed by his many friends and acquaintances on the public square.
Funeral services were held from the home of his step-daughter, Mrs. T. O. Beatty, at 2:30 Tuesday afternoon, Rev. S. WAKEFIELD, of Maroa, in charge. The members of I. O. O. F., G. A. R. and W. R. C. attended in a body. Interment in Woodlawn.
The pall bearers were chosen from the members of the I. O. O. F. and the G. A. R., as follows: Wm. BOOTH, John KILLOUGH, Thomas EWING, E. H. BEATTY, Samuel NEWELL and S. L. DUNBAR.
Note: According to the Woodlawn Cemetery book, his full name was Lewis Buck Williams.
Mrs. Lewis B. WILLIAMS
November 8, 1901
Clinton Register
DEATH CLAIMS A MOTHER.
Mrs. Sarah Williams Submitted to an Operation and Died Four Days Afterward—
Funeral Next Sunday.
Mrs. Sarah L. WILLIAMS, wife of L. B. WILLIAMS, died yesterday morning at her home near the southwest limits of the city, aged 65 years, 3 months and 29 days. She had not been well for about a year and was confined to her bed a month. She was afflicted with [a] tumor, and it became evident death must soon result unless an operation would save her life, and there was little hope that it would. Last Sunday the operation was performed and she died four days afterward.
Sarah Lavina HAMMOND was born in Marion county, Ohio, July 8, 1836. November 27, 1855, she was married to James CONKLIN and they moved to Clinton in 1856 where the husband died July 18 [before 1866].
Three children were born to them, one of whom, Mrs. T. O BEATTY, of Clinton, is living. She was married to L. B. Williams, who survives her, Jan. 21, 1866. One child, Mrs. Lavina FULLER, was born to them. She lived with her parents since the death of her husband a few years ago.
Three sisters, Mrs. C. P. RICHARDS and Mrs. ELY, of Clinton, Mrs. John DUNCAN, of Wapella, and two brothers, John HAMMOND, of Bloomington, and Chas. HAMMOND, of Clinton, also survive her.
Funeral services at the home Sunday at 2:30, conducted by Rev. CANADY. Interment in Woodlawn cemetery.
May (MILLS) WILLIAMS
Date Unknown
Paper Unknown
Mrs. L. O. Williams Claimed by Death Wednesday Morning.
(Obituary Extract)
Name: Mrs. May C. (MILLS) WILLIAMS
Born: May 11, 1874, Salina, Kansas
Parents: Jadediah and Minerva (FLACK) MILLS
Married: Louis O. WILLIAMS,
March 1, 1903
Survivors: Children: Emerson, aged 22, Grace, aged 17
Funeral: M. E. church Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock in charge of Rev. Thomas H.
TULL.
Burial: Woodlawn cemetery
Submitted by Debbie Champion
Mrs. Mary WILLIAMS
December 11, 1891
Clinton Public
Mrs. Mary WILLIAMS, wife of Mr. Henry WILLIAMS, died last Saturday morning, after a brief illness of only two weeks. She was a native of Pennsylvania, and at her death was only forty-five years old. She was the mother of nine children, six of whom are still living. The family came to Clinton about fourteen years ago, and they were poor indeed when they arrived here. Both Mr. and Mrs. Williams were ambitious to have a home of their own, and together they pulled in that direction. By hard work and the closest economy they educated their children and bought a lot and built a new house, which they had paid for. Neither of them spared themselves. Mr. Williams worked in storm and sunshine, never losing a moment’s time, and Mrs. Williams toiled at the washtub day and night. The strain was too much for her. She was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery on Sunday afternoon. Henry Williams is an old soldier, having served during the war in the Eighteenth U. S. Infantry, which was raised in Ohio. His old comrades paid the last tribute of respect to the deceased.
William Lewis WILLIAMS
September 7, 1906
Clinton Register
HEARD THE FINAL ROLL CALL.
Another of DeWitt County's Old Soldiers
is Mustered Out of Service at His Home in Clinton.
At his home, 607 West Washington street, Clinton, William Lewis WILLIAMS, one of the early settlers of DeWitt county, departed this life at 3 o'clock a.m., Sunday, Sept. 2, 1906, aged 64 years, 5 months and 12 days.
Mr. Williams was born in Posey county, Ind., March 21, 1842, and was the oldest son of Simon and Sarah B. WILLIAMS. He continued to live in the county of his birth until the age of nine years at which time his parents moved to Logan county, Ill., where they settled on a farm near Atlanta. In 1855 Mr. Williams came with his parents to DeWitt county, and with the exception of six years' residence in Kansas and Missouri, and six years in Chicago, Peoria and Lincoln, has resided in this county ever since.
Mr. Williams served throughout the war of the Rebellion, having enlisted in the 177th Reg. Ill. Inf. in Aug. 1863, with which regiment he was connected until in October, 1863, when he was transferred to Colvin's battery, afterwards Battery K, Illinois Artillery, serving with that battery until the close of the war. He was mustered out as second lieutenant, having been promoted through the various grades from private to that office.
On the 25th of January, 1883, Mr. Williams was married to Mrs. Ida C. SMITH and to this union were born four children, two of whom died in infancy. The other two, Faye and Maurine, together with their mother, survive. Mr. Williams is also survived by his aged mother, who is now in California, and the following sisters and brothers: Mrs. Elizabeth J. SAMUELS, of Boswell, Ind.; John T. WILLIAMS, of San Francisco, Cal.; Jas. C. WILLIAMS, of Kenney, Ill.; A. J. WILLIAMS and Joel WILLIAMS, of Clinton; S. W. and Chas., of Wentworth, Mo.; and Mrs. J. F. Humphreys, of Redlands, Cal.
The funeral was held at the residence Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock, conducted by Rev. C. E. Varney. The services at the grave were under the direction of Frank Lowry post, G. A. R., of which deceased was a member.
Elias WILLIAMSON
November 5, 1874
Clinton Public
In Harp Township, on Wednesday, November 4, of typhoid fever, Elias WILLIAMSON, aged 18 years, 6 months and 27 days.
John WILLIAMSON
January 11, 1901
Clinton Register
SUDDEN DEATH AT DEWITT.
John Williamson, Aged Three Score and Ten,
Dies While Walking Along the Street.
Yesterday about 12:30 o'clock as John WILLIAMSON, of DeWitt, was walking along the street in that town, he suddenly fell to the walk and died in a very short time. He lived with his son-in-law, Wm. BOWEN, one mile north of DeWitt and went to dinner about 11:30. While there, Mr. Bowen's horses got into the road and he and his daughter tried to get them back into the pasture, but failed. Mr. Williamson exerted himself more than usual after the horses, which was no doubt the immediate cause of his death soon afterward. He walked down the railroad to the depot and then started up the street south to his blacksmith shop where he worked. When a short distance from the depot, he fell suddenly and died in a few seconds.
John W. Williamson was born in Ohio and came to this county when about 18 years old and had since lived at Farmer City, Parnell and DeWitt. He was married to Miss CALLISON, who died in 1876. His only child is Mrs. Wm. Bowen. Four sisters survive him. They are Mrs. Lib GANO, Mrs. J. C. KRANICH, Mrs. Minerva GLEN, living at DeWitt and Lane, and Mrs. Margaret McPHETERS, of Piatt county.
Funeral services will be held in the Methodist church in DeWitt tomorrow, conducted by Rev. HARRY. Burial in DeWitt cemetery.
Grace Greenwood WILLING
November 5, 1874
Clinton Public
In this city, October 29, Grace Greenwood, youngest child of James T. and Jennie L. WILLING.
Mary (CAMPBELL) WILLIS
February 4, 1887
Clinton Public
Death of Mrs. J. S. B. Willis
In last week's PUBLIC we briefly mentioned the death of Mrs. WILLIS, which occurred at Baxter Springs, Kansas, on Wednesday of last week. J. S. B. WILLIS and his family are remembered kindly in the neighborhood of Clinton, where they lived for nearly twenty years, and where the Willis boys grew to young manhood. Mrs. Mary Willis was the youngest daughter of Mr. John N. CAMPBELL, and the youngest of a family of nine children. She was born in Sangamon county, near Springfield, on the 22d day of December, 1834. Twenty years later she was united in marriage to J. S. B. Willis, and four years later they come to live in this county. They lived between Clinton and Wapella for nearly twenty years, and then moved back to Sangamon county, where Mr. Willis bought the home farm of the Willis family. About two years ago Mr. Willis sold out his possessions and moved to Baxter Springs, Kansas, for the purpose of getting sufficient land to leave each of his children an inheritance. Mrs. Willis was the mother of seven children, two of whom preceded her to that better land, where she was united with them Wednesday of last week. It is a sad blow to the family and the sympathy of their old friends and neighbors will go out to Mr. Willis in his great heart sorrow.
B. L. WILLMORE
1930
Paper Unknown
(Obituary Extract)
Name: B. L. WILLMORE
Date: 1930
Born: DeWitt County
Parents:
Charles and Sarah Jane (WRIGHT) WILLMORE
Married: First - Mollie HANGER; deceased.
Second - Mary Mills SPICER; deceased.
Survivors: Children: Fred, Nell, Ben
and John WILLMORE of Hebron, Neb. and Bess, of St. Joe, Mo. Son Perey, deceased.
Brothers: James, of Valentine, Neb.; Clayburn of Kiowa, Kansas; Tillman and Charles,
of Hebron, Neb.; Garrison of Clinton, Ill. Sisters: Emma RING and Phoebe DAVIS of
Hebron, Neb.
Funeral: Christian church in Hebron Wednesday at 2 o'clock.
Burial: Hebron.
Submitted by Debbie Champion
James P. WILLMORE
February 9, 1877
Clinton Public
Death of an Old Settler.
James P. WILLMORE, of Harp township, was among the early settlers of DeWitt county. He came here from Virginia in 1844, and settled in Harp when good prairie land could be had for merely paying the government entry. Mr. Willmore bought three hundred acres partly improved, for which he paid five dollars an acre, and on this he spent the last thirty-three years of his life. Coming to this county a poor man, with a young family, he had all the hardships to endure incidental to a new country. He retained the possession of his farm and the increase in value, it now being worth $40 an acre, made his latter years ones of ease and comfort. He was a hale and hearty man for his years and enjoyed remarkable good health till within the past few weeks. He was sick but a short time and on last Friday February 3d, he died, at the ripe age of seventy-four years. His funeral took place on Sunday, and was attended by a large concourse of his friends and neighbors. He was buried in a family cemetery on his own farm.
Amos WILSON
June 26, 1885
Clinton Public
SUDDEN DEATH OF AMOS WILSON.
Amos WILSON, of DeWitt township, came to this county in the year 1850, and for thirty-five years lived on the farm on which he first settled when he came here from Ohio. He was born in Maryland in the year 1803, and had reached the ripe age of eighty-two years and ten months. He was a man well-preserved for his years, and he and his aged wife lived alone on the home farm and kept everything in running order. Last Saturday the old gentleman attended the sale of the personal property of his old friend, the late Orin WAKEFIELD, and did not get back home till late in the afternoon. Between six and seven o’clock in the evening he was in the act of pulling off his boots when the chair tilted back with him and he fell over dead. There was no one in the room with him except his wife. When she reached the old gentleman, life was extinct. The doctor, who was afterward summoned, pronounced the cause of his death to be heart disease. Death was quick and sudden. The old veteran was spared the pains and sufferings incidental to wasting disease. What a blessing to be called from time to eternity in such a manner. His sister, the mother of the WEEDMAN family of Farmer City, came to her death in like manner. She was milking a cow when she fell dead from heart disease. Amos Wilson was the last of his father’s family. He was the father of twelve children, nine of whom are still living. He was an upright man and had the respect and confidence of his neighbors. He was buried last Tuesday in the DeWitt cemetery.
Andrew WILSON
May 17, 1912
Clinton Register
DEATH OF ANDREW WILSON.
Tuesday evening at 10:30 another old resident of DeWitt county passed away. Death was due to a complication of diseases, the end coming at the home of his son James C. Wilson, of Harp township, seven miles east of Wapella. Although he had been ill for some time his condition was not considered serious until a short time before his death.
Andrew WILSON, who was one of the leading stock-raisers of Harp township, was born in April 1843, on the farm on which he died, and was therefore one of the oldest native residents of the county. Although a grain grower, he sold little of that produce, making it a rule to feed stock, buying the latter to consume the surplus, thus keeping the farm in splendid condition. Mr. Wilson was twice married, the first union being with Miss Mary FIELD, three children being born to this union, the first, a girl, dying in infancy. The two surviving are James C. WILSON of Harp township, with whom deceased made his home, and Thomas R. WILSON of Wilson township. The second marriage was with Miss Clarinda SMITH, who is also deceased. He leaves besides his sons one brother, Asa WILSON, of DeWitt township, the last survivor of a family of twelve children. Funeral services were held from the old homestead at 10 o'clock Thursday morning. Interment in Walter's cemetery.
Mrs. Andrew WILSON
March 6, 1885
Clinton Public
The death of Mrs. Andrew WILSON, on February 28, has been the occasion of great grief to both friends and relatives. Her illness had been a very protracted one, being more or less severe since last October. Her last hours upon earth were peaceful and quiet, realizing the near presence of death, yet fully resigned. A few minutes before she died she repeated a favorite and well-known verse from her hymnal, inquired the time, and passed off in the triumphs of a living faith. Owing to the pleasantness of the day, the 2nd inst., a large number of friends were in attendance, who followed the remains to the Walters Cemetery, where she was laid to rest. The funeral was conducted by Rev. Thos. W. BATH.
Anna (HARP) & Lloyd WILSON
January 10, 1896
Clinton Public
A MOTHER AND CHILD DEAD.
About two weeks ago Mrs. Anna WILSON, wife of T. W. WILSON, and their two-year-old boy were taken sick with pneumonia. At 3:30 p.m., January 6, the wife and mother died, and the next morning at 9 o'clock little Lloyd followed. The mother was 31 years, 2 months and 21 days old. Mrs. Wilson was the youngest daughter of the late Thomas HARP and was an estimable woman. She was born and raised in Harp township, east of Clinton. September 19, 1886, she was married to T. Wilber Wilson and became the mother of three boys. The surviving boys are one aged eight and one six years. The youngest was very sick but is recovering. Funeral services were held at the home of Mr. Wilson four miles east of Clinton on Wednesday at 10 a.m., conducted by Rev. W. A. HUNTER. A large number of neighbors and friends were in attendance to express their sympathy with the bereaved father and boys. It was sad, but if death has a beautiful phase in it, it was presented there, when a young woman lay in the casket with her child resting on her arm. The large audience was moved to tears. Remains were interred in Woodlawn.
Asa WILSON
May 24, 1912
Clinton Register
DEATH OF AGED RESIDENT.
Asa Wilson, a DeWitt County
Pioneer Passed Away at 1:30 Saturday Afternoon.
Asa WILSON, pioneer resident of DeWitt county, passed away Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at his home at DeWitt after an illness of two weeks with pneumonia. Mr. Wilson was born in Perry county, Ohio, October 27, 1832 and came to Illinois with his parents in 1835, first locating in DeWitt county in the eastern part. The Wilson family was the first to settle in Wilson township and it is from this family that the name was derived. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas WILSON who spent the remainder of their lives after 1835 in Wilson township and who thru hard toil came into possession of a large tract of the more valuable of DeWitt county land. March 9, 1865, he was married to Miss Lavina JONES and they immediately located on a farm in Wilson township. To this union were born five children, four of whom survive, the other dying in infancy. Those who survive, besides the widow, are: Ira D., residing on the old Wilson homestead; John C. WILSON, of DeWitt; Mrs. Nancy TURK, of Bloomington; and Mrs. Adda MOORE, of Wapella.
Mr. Wilson enlisted in the union army in 1861 and served for three years. He was a member of DeWitt lodge, No. 161, A. F. and A.M. He had been an active man throughout his life time and was a willing worker and financial benefit to the Cumberland Presbyterian church in DeWitt for years. For the last twenty years he had lived a retired life in DeWitt and until his recent sickness had always enjoyed the best of health.
Funeral services were held from the C. P. Church at DeWitt Monday afternoon at 2:30. Interment in DeWitt cemetery.
--------------------1912
Paper Unknown
Asa Wilson Dies.
Aged Resident of DeWitt County Passed Away Saturday
Afternoon.
DeWitt, May 19.—(Special.)—Asa WILSON, pioneer resident of DeWitt county, passed away Saturday at 1:20 p.m., at his home, here, after an illness of two weeks with pneumonia. Mr. Wilson was born in Perry county, O., October 27, 1832 and came to Illinois with his parents in 1835, first locating in DeWitt county in the eastern part. The Wilson family was the first to settle in Wilson township and it is from this family that the name was derived. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas WILSON and spent the remainder of their lives after 1835 in Wilson township and who thru hard toil came into possession of a large tract of the more valuable of DeWitt county land. March 9, 1865, he was married to Miss Lavina JONES and they immediately located on a farm in Wilson township. To this union were born five children, four of whom survive, the other dying in infancy. Those who survive besides the widow, are: Ira D., residing on the old Wilson homestead; John C. WILSON, of DeWitt; Mrs. Nancy TURK, of Bloomington, and Mrs. Adda MOORE, of Wapella.
Mr. Wilson had been a life-long supporter of the Republican party and cast his first vote for J. C. Fremont. He enlisted in the union army in 1861 and served for three years. He was a member of DeWitt lodge, No. 161, A.F. and A.M. He had been an ac...(cut off).
Submitted by John Laughlin
Mrs. Hugh WILSON
November 12, 1886
Clinton Public
An old and highly respected citizen of Piatt county passed away with the Christian's hope of eternal life, on Tuesday, November 9th, 1886, aged a few days over 59 years. She was born in Pennsylvania, emigrated to Ohio, thence to Illinois, where she was married in 1846 to Mr. PASSWATERS, by whom she had five children, all living and married except one son who died very suddenly eight years ago. Mrs. WILSON was a member of the Christian church most of her life, but a little over a year ago she united with the M. E. Church with her husband.
Her death was produced by cancer of the stomach, a post-mortem examination by Drs. DREW, of Weldon, and DAVIS, of DeLand, revealing the fact that the disease had made terrible headway. She has been a long sufferer from this painful disease. The funeral was attended by a large congregation at the M. E. Church at Weldon, after which she was laid to rest by the side of her little granddaughter, Gracie, who was the first person buried in the Weldon Cemetery. Rev. W. A. BURKS, of DeLand officiated at the funeral.
James A. WILSON
December 22, 1882
Clinton Public
Death of James A. Wilson.
James A. WILSON was born on the farm on which he ended his life, on the 20th of October, 1839. His father was one of the early settlers of DeWitt county, having located here in 1832. Wilson township was named in honor of the elder Wilson. In his youth James A. Wilson had only the meager advantages of a country school education, his teacher being Harvey BLOUNT. Till five years ago he had spent his life on a farm, to which he added the business of buying cattle and hogs. He was a trader on a large scale, for whatever he undertook he went at it with all his might. Twenty years ago last September he was married to Elizabeth COOK, of Waynesville, he having formed her acquaintance while she was teaching school in the Wilson neighborhood. Till he came to Clinton Mr. Wilson was an active worker in the church and Sunday-school, to both of which causes he contributed liberally in time and money. Indeed in money matters James Wilson was as liberal a man as ever lived in DeWitt county. His purse was always open to help a friend or a stranger in distress. No friend ever called on James Wilson for help in vain. In his native township he was a recognized leader, and for years held the different town offices, from supervisor to school trustee. He was an honored member of the Masons, Odd-Fellows and Knights of Pythias. The good he did in life will live after him. If he had faults, his virtues entirely covered them up in the eyes of the world. Peace to his ashes. The tired soul is beyond the harassing cares of business troubles.
(See news article)
Joel S. WILSON
August 15, 1890
Clinton Public
On last Saturday evening, at nine o’clock, Joel S. WILSON was sitting by the window in his home talking with his wife and Mrs. Clint RICHARDS about some old-time reminiscences, when suddenly he ceased talking. He was dead. It was a sad blow to his wife, yet how merciful it was to Mr. Wilson that he should die without pain or a struggle. Some time last March he was attacked with a sever pain in the breast, which finally yielded to medical treatment, when he was afflicted with a bronchial infection, which resisted the power of medicine. Dr. WILCOX, his physician was satisfied that there was no relief for him, but to make sure that he was not mistaken in his diagnosis of the case, the doctor advised Mr. Wilson to go to Chicago about four weeks ago to consult some of the celebrated specialists in bronchial diseases. After spending a few days in Chicago Mr. Wilson returned home with his fate sealed; the Chicago doctors could not help him or even give him promise of temporary relief. During all his sickness Mr. Wilson was not confined to his bed, but was able to walk around the house and yard; and on account of his throat he could not sleep at night in bed but had to recline in a chair. But few in town really knew that he was sick, although it was mentioned now and then that he was confined to his home. He had passed the three score years and ten allotted to man, and at the time of his death he was seventy-two years, four months and six days old. He was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery on Monday afternoon, his remains being followed to the grave by a large number of the older citizens of Clinton and this part of the county.
Joel S. Wilson was born in Bond county, Illinois, on the 3d of April, 1818. In his youth he learned the carpenter’s trade. On the 20th of March, 1854, he came to Clinton and worked at his trade in the building of the Central passenger and freight depots. He worked at his trade only a short time when he engaged in the lumber business where Kent’s yard now is. Mr. William FULLER was also in the lumber business, and after a time the two yards were consolidated and Messrs. Wilson and Fuller were in partnership for nearly three years, when Mr. Wilson sold out, and in 1859 he engaged in the grocery business with Mr. ROUZE as a partner. In 1862 he sold his interest in the grocery business to Mr. Rouze and bought out Jake ZORGER’s bakery, which stood where RUNBECK’s tailoring establishment now is. In 1866 he bought the frame building where Kelly’s bakery now stands, and from that time, with the exception of a brief intermission, carried on the bakery and confectionery business there till 1884, when he sold out and retired. Mr. Wilson was a careful business man, and when he retired he had a competence to provide for himself and family. About three years ago Mr. Wilson bought the Robert MAGILL property on East Main street, and spent his time in beautifying the grounds around his home. In business he was the soul of honor and every body was his friend. His word was as good as his bond. He leaves a wife, one son, and a grandson. His firstborn son died before he came to Clinton.
Mrs. Joel S. WILSON
December 25, 1891
Clinton Public
Mrs. Louisa Jane WILSON, mother of Henry C. WILSON, died at her home in this city on Wednesday last, aged seventy-two years, six months and twenty-eight days. She was born in White County, Illinois, and in the year 1839 was married to Joel S. WILSON at Hillsboro, Ill. The family came to Clinton thirty-eight years ago. Mrs. Wilson was the mother of several children all of whom, except Henry, died in infancy. Her husband died in August, 1890. She leaves a son and a grandson to mourn the death of their best friend.
From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WILSON, JOEL S
RUTLEDGE, LOUISA J 02/02/1843 MONTGOMERY
John WILSON
February 17, 1899
Clinton Public
FOUND FROZEN TO DEATH.
John Wilson, of Waynesville, Found Dead in
His Yard Last Saturday.
HE WAS OF UNSOUND MIND.
Deceased Was Continually Watched by the
Family, but Escaped Their Vigilance.
News reached the city at an early hour on Saturday that John WILSON, an aged citizen of Waynesville, had been found dead in his yard that morning. He was familiarly known as "Uncle Johnnie," and had resided in Waynesville for 35 years, locating there from Ohio.
For the past three months Mr. Wilson's mind had been failing and he required almost the constant attention of his daughter's family, Mrs. C. P. EVANS, with whom he made his home. Of late he would wander from the house and the family was forced to exercise more than ordinary watchfulness. About 10 o'clock Friday night, when his daughter was ready to retire, she went to his room on the lower floor and fixed his fire. Mr. Wilson was then asleep in his bed. The lady locked all the doors and windows and retired. At 5 o'clock this morning, when the family arose, Mrs. Evans again visited her father's room but was surprised to find him absent. A search was at once instituted and a short time afterward Mr. Evans found the old gentleman lying in the yard under an evergreen tree, frozen to death and covered with snow. He was clad only in a night robe, his bare feet and limbs being exposed to the cold. He had evidently been dead for several hours as there was not sufficient warmth in the body to melt the snow which covered his form.
It is supposed that shortly after the family retired Mr. Wilson arose and escaped by means of an up-stairs window. This window opens upon a small shed, and from there he reached the ground below.
The manner of his death was a shock to Mrs. Evans, who is in poor health and of a nervous disposition. She is now confined to bed under the care of physicians.
Deputy Coroner Emory was called and went to Waynesville to hold an inquest Saturday.
John E. WILSON
January 23, 1913
Paper Unknown
John E. Wilson Responded to Roll Call Last Thursday Morning.
SERVED
THREE YEARS IN THE UNION ARMY.
Born in Indiana and Came to Illinois When a Young
Man.
Funeral was Held Friday.
John E. WILSON was born in Hancock Co., Ind., July 13, 1842, and came to Illinois with his parents who located near Olney when he was about 15 years old. He was united in marriage to Melissa BARTLEY, March 17, 1861 at Calhoun, Ill., who passed to her reward Aug. 5, 1911. To them was born four children, one dying in infancy. W. O. and C. E. of this place and one daughter, Mrs. Lizzie LUCAS of Waveland, Ind., survive him, together with ten grand- children, and also one brother. Four months after his marriage he heard his country's call for soldiers and enlisted in Company E, 11th Mo. He was honorably discharged after serving three years for his country.
In 1881 he moved with his family to a farm in Macon Co., Ill., where he lived until 1887 when he moved to a farm a mile and a half northeast of this place. In 1900 he retired from active life and moved to this place where he has since lived.
March 17, 1911, he and his wife joined with their many friends in celebrating their 50th anniversary. Five months later this happy bond of a little more than fifty years was broken by the death of his companion. He was a member of the Masonic and Eastern Star and Modern Woodmen lodges. Bro. Wilson joined the Methodist church when quite young, in his teens, remaining an active member until his death. In relating his christian experience he has often told how his grandmother took him to Sunday school when he was quite a small boy. Except for the three years in his country's service, he was a constant attendant, holding some responsible positions—having been superintendent of two or three, one of which was our school here. He was a staunch temperance worker; his influence in this and other lines of christian work still goes on.
Mr. Wilson departed this life Thursday morning at 4:00 o'clock at the home of his son C. E. WILSON, surrounded by loved ones and many kind friends. He is at rest with the redeemed and bloodwashed eternal in the heavens. He has gone away. No more will he appear in the home and sit with us and talk with us his Brother before the alter and sit with us in counsel; no more will he come in the door and sit with us here and with us worship a loving Savior and Heavenly Father.
He was a man of excellent habit, fine moral character, and sturdy constitution, and he continued to be active in his accustomed pursuits till long past the age at which men ordinarily drop out of the ranks of the workers. He met most of the conditions of life with a joke. He was a practical, matter-of-fact man, but had his own peculiar way of extracting merriment from life as it went along, and he was not disposed to worry about matters that could be bettered in other ways. This cheerful spirit remained with him to the last, and he retained his clearness of intellect up to his closing days. He was invariably a good neighbor and their was no happier family circle in the land than his. When he died full of years, and ready to be gathered to his fathers, the grief that was felt over the close of his long career was widespread and sincere. His best monument will be the good report that he has left behind him in the community in which he has lived for more than twenty-five years. Funeral services were held in the Methodist church Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. M. F. AULT of this place. The Masonic, Eastern Star and Modern Woodmen lodges attending the body. The first named order taking part in the services. Burial was made in the (?) America cemetery.
Submitted by Debbie Champion
Mahala WILSON
August 2, 1889>br />Clinton Public
A Peaceful Death.
Miss Mahala WILSON, aged thirty years, died at her home in this city on last Tuesday evening. She was the sister of the late James A. WILSON, former treasurer of this county. For years she had suffered from lingering consumption, but through all her sickness she never gave way to despondency but was always cheerful and genial in the company of her relatives and friends. Hope was ever present with her that time would restore her to perfect health. There was nothing of the invalid in her actions, and till the last moment she would not admit even to herself that the end of life was so near. Mahala Wilson was a beautiful character in life and her thoughts and efforts were ever directed to the benefit of others. On last Tuesday evening, while sitting at the supper table, she asked her sister to remove her chair to another room that she might get the benefit of the cool air, as she was suffering from heat. Her sister moved her chair to the window of the next room and when she was comfortably arranged she looked up and said: “Lou, I can’t see you.” These were the last words she spoke for within a few minutes her immortal spirit passed into eternity. It was a terrible blow to her mother and sister, for while they feared the worst, death came unexpectedly at the moment. Funeral services were held at the home on Wednesday morning, after which the mourning friends followed the remains of their beloved dead to the Walters Cemetery, in Wilson township, where Mahala Wilson was laid to rest by the side of her kindred who had preceded her to the other world. Mahala Wilson was born and spent her life in this county.
Samuel WILSON
November 7, 1890
Clinton Public
On the banks of the Ohio, in Lewis county, Kentucky, on Christmas day, 1820, Samuel WILSON, of Wapella, was born. His early life was spent on a farm, and in his boyhood days much of his time was spent in hunting in the mountains of his native State. When he was eighteen years old he and John BROWN, of Wapella township, hired out for a trip down the river to New Orleans on a trading boat, and this was one of the great events of their young lives and one which they never tired of talking about even in their old days. In 1843 Mr. Wilson and Miss Harriet GROVER was united in marriage in Lewis county, Kentucky, and to them nine children were born, and Mrs. Wilson and six children — four sons and two daughters — are left to mourn the death of a loving husband and father. Mr. Brown came to DeWitt county in an early day, and through his influence Mr. Wilson and his family moved from Kentucky to Wapella township in 1873. Mr. Wilson bought a farm near Wapella and he and his sons tilled it for a number of years. Five years ago he left the farm and moved into the village of Wapella, where with his son Ocean he engaged in the grain and stock business, in which they were very successful.
Mr. Wilson was a competent business man and a successful trader, and very rarely did his judgment mislead him. Before his death he turned over the company business to his son Ocean .... To each of his children he gave a farm or its equivalent in money. In business matters he was strictly honorable, and as a neighbor there was no kinder or more generous man in Wapella. Six months ago his health failed, yet through all his pain and suffering he was as gentle as a child. One week ago to-day (October 31) Samuel Wilson departed this life, and on Saturday his old friends and neighbors paid the last tribute of respect to one who had endeared himself to all by his kindly and unselfish life.
Submitted by Bob Halsey
Mrs. Samuel WILSON
August 9, 1895
Clinton Public
Harriet GROVER was born November 6th, 1821, in Lewis county, Ky., was married to Samuel WILSON in 1842. They moved from Kentucky to Illinois in 1873, and settled east of the village about two miles. She was the mother of nine children—seven boys and two girls—six of whom are living, Mrs. S. R. DUNBAR, Oscar, Rufus, Ocean, Sandy, and Mrs. John RUGGLES, of Wellington, Kansas. All were present at the funeral. After three weeks of illness, she died peacefully on Friday afternoon at 5:15, surrounded by her children and friends. She became a Christian in early life, and united with the Baptist Church, of which she remained a member till the time of her death. She was a quiet but cheerful disposition, a faithful wife and a loving mother. Her age was seventy-three years, nine months and twenty-nine days. Her husband died October 31, 1890. Rev. D. MacARTHUR, of Clinton, conducted the funeral services at the Sugar Grove Methodist Episcopal church, on Sunday morning, at 10:30. The remains were interred by the side of her husband to await the great resurrection day. The funeral procession was one of the largest that has gone out of town for some time.
Samuel WILSON
August15, 1902
Clinton Register
Samuel WILSON who died suddenly at his home near Waynesville Aug. 6, was 76 years old, being born in the south part of Illinois May 1, 1826. His first wife was Miss Jane GARRETT; two children were born to them, both being dead. His second marriage was to Miss Lucinda CISCO, five children being born to them, all living near Waynesville, except one. They are Mrs. Mary HALSEY, Amboy, Ill.; Mrs. Sallie ABBOTT; William, Samuel and Cecil Wilson. He united with the Christian church twenty years ago and remained a member the remainder of his life. He served in the 41st Illinois regiment in the civil war. Funeral services were held Aug. 7, conducted by Rev. Fisher, of Maroa. Burial was in Rock Creek cemetery.
Amos WINEGARDNER
November 19, 1897
Clinton Public
Dropped Dead in His Field.
Amos Winegardner, an
Old Resident of Near Hallsville, Died Suddenly This Afternoon.
A telephone message reached THE PUBLIC at 1:45 p.m. Friday that Amos WINEGARDNER was found dead in his pasture, three miles southwest of Hallsville, that afternoon. He had complained a great deal of heart trouble, and it is believed that this disease can be assigned as the cause of his death. He was 60 years old and leaves a wife and about 10 children. He owned 50 or 60 acres of land near Hallsville and had always been an exemplary citizen, respected by a large acquaintance.
Mr. Winegardner had been digging a well about a quarter of a mile from the house, and while returning home fell. His wife had prepared dinner and sent her daughter Lora to call him. On the way she was met by the dog, which barked and ran toward the field, as if something had happened, and Lora saw at a distance her father lying face downward. She ran back to the house, and Mr. Winegardner's sister went to the field where her brother lay. His body was carried to the house. It is supposed he had been dead about an hour.
The funeral of Amos Winegardner was held at his home near Hallsville at 11 o'clock Sunday morning. The Rev. Mr. MAVITY officiated. Remains were buried in Woodlawn.
Severn WINKLE
September 18, 1914
Clinton Register
ONE YEAR OF RETIRED LIFE.
Death Calls Old Resident Who
Retired from Active Farm Life a Year Ago.
An old resident of Waynesville township passed away Monday morning at one o'clock when Severn WINKLE answered the final call at his home in Waynesville.
Severn Winkle was one of the oldest residents and best known men in that part of the county, where he had spent almost his entire life. Since his boyhood he had lived in that vicinity and was one of the county’s successful farmers. About one year ago he moved to Waynesville, and until a short time ago he had never suffered from any serious illness. It was hoped by himself and family that he might live many more years in the enjoyment of his well earned competence.
Severn Winkle was born March 25, 1840. July 11, 1862, he was married to Miss Elizabeth HAYES, the fruits of this union being twelve children.
Funeral services were held from the Christian church at Waynesville, of which deceased was a member, Tuesday afternoon at 2:30, Rev. W. H. Huff, the pastor, officiating. Burial in the Halsey cemetery, east of Waynesville.
Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WINKLE, SOVRIN HAYS, ELIZABETH
07/11/1862 DE WITT
Alfred WINSLOW
November 22, 1936
Paper Unknown
Alfred WINSLOW, 80, of Clinton died early Saturday morning in the state hospital at Jacksonville. He was taken to the hospital three days ago and enroute suffered a stroke of paralysis which was the cause of his death.
He was born at Dewitt, his parents being Mr. and Mrs. Jeremiah WINSLOW. His parents and his wife are dead. He leaves three children; Orval WINSLOW of Peoria, Mrs. Nola GOERECEN, Bloomington and Mrs. John BEDOE, Austin Texas.
The body was brought to the Reeser Funeral home in Clinton. Graveside services will be held at the McCord cemetery near Dewitt at 19:30 AM Monday. Rev H.B. WHEATON of the Christian Church will be in charge.
Submitted by Charlotte English
Bruce WINSLOW
1909
Paper Unknown
DEATH OF BRUCE WINSLOW.
Passed Away at His Home Southwest of Weldon Wednesday Night at 6:00 O'clock.
Funeral to be held Friday.
Last Friday Bruce WINSLOW, residing about seven miles south west of Weldon, suffered a paralytic stroke and remained in a serious condition up to the time of his death, which occurred Wednesday night at 6:00 o'clock. While he recognized his family, relatives and friends, he was unable to talk to them and he grew weaker each day until the final summons. Competent physicians were in almost constant attendance but they gave no hopes of his recovery at any time.
The funeral services will be held from the M. P. church Friday, Dec. 24th, at 1:00 o'clock, p.m., conducted by Rev. Thos. RINGLAND, after which the remains will be interred in the Weldon cemetery. Weldon Camp No. 1787, Modern Woodman of America, will have charge of the funeral.
J. B. Winslow as born at DeWitt, Ill., Oct. 3, 1861, and died in Macon County, Ill., Dec. 22, being 48 years, 2 months and 19 days of age. He was united in marriage to Miss Nettie McMAN and as a result of the union one daughter, Mrs. William McCREADY, was born. She, with two brothers, S. A. WINSLOW, of Weldon, and Al WINSLOW, of Danvers, survive him. A complete obituary will be published in our next issue.
Submitted by Debbie Champion
Charles E. WINSLOW
February 25, 1875
Clinton Public
Charles E. WINSLOW, an old resident of this city, died on Tuesday afternoon. Some six years ago, while temporarily working at his trade in Missouri, Mr. Winslow was seized with paralysis, which completely disabled one side of his body. His family exhausted every known remedy for his relief, and some of the best physicians in the country were consulted, but all to no avail. Previous to his affliction Mr. Winslow was a man of vigorous frame, and did a great deal of manual labor, but for the past six years he has been as helpless as a child, and this inaction chafed his spirits. On Monday last, the other side of his body became paralyzed, and he remained in an unconscious state till death came to his relief.
Charles L. WINSLOW
April 10, 1914
Clinton Register
FOUND DEAD IN BED.
Charles L. WINSLOW was found dead in his bed at Farmer City Thursday morning about 7 o'clock by his daughter, Ruby. He was a well digger by trade. He had not been sick any length of time, merely complaining a little Wednesday night. A doctor was called and he was thought to be resting comfortably. It is not known at what time he died. He leaves four children and his wife. He was a member of the M. E. church and of the Masonic lodge. The funeral was held this afternoon at one o'clock from the M. E. church, Rev. T. H. Tull in charge. Interment in the McCord cemetery at Fullerton.
The verdict of the jury, called by Coroner Moore to inquire as to the cause of the death of Chas. Winslow, who was found dead in his bed yesterday morning, rendered a verdict of death from neuralgia of the heart.
Emmett E. WINSLOW
June 20, 1884
Clinton Public
Sudden Death of Emmett E. Winslow.
Emmett E. WINSLOW was the second son of Mr. Warren S. WINSLOW, and was about twelve years of age. Last Friday, for some breach of discipline, he was promised a whipping when his father would return home, and to avoid it the boy went off and hid in O. L. KIRK's barn. His sisters found him there and when they were taking him home the boy broke away from them and ran quite a distance. The excitement of running was too much for him and he fell down. When carried home he was unconscious and remained in that condition all night and a part of the next day. His parents sent for Dr. WILCOX, and when he examined the boy he thought he would be all right in a few hours. On Sunday afternoon, while the doctor was standing by his bedside, Emmett gave one or two gasps and then died. The boy's parents and the doctor were anxious to find out if the boy had taken anything to cause his sickness, and during some of his lucid moments the doctor questioned him closely on this point. They thought he might have eaten something that did not agree with him, but the boy declared that he had not touched anything. He complained greatly of pains in the head.
From all the indications attending the death of the boy Dr. Wilcox thinks he must have ruptured some of the small blood vessels in his head, which produced congestion. The boy had not been well for some time, and the doctor thinks that the excitement of running was too much for him in his enfeebled condition of body. His parents noticed that he had acted strangely for a day or two and was very nervous. It is a terrible stroke to the parents, for Emmett was the pet of the household.
George A. WINSLOW
May 28, 1909
The Farmer City Journal
Well Known Resident Falls a Victim to Pneumonia.
Last Friday night just before the midnight hour, death claimed George A. WINSLOW, who had been critically ill with pneumonia for a week. Mr. Winslow came home the latter part of April from Hot Springs, Ark., where he and Mrs. WINSLOW spent several weeks for the benefit of the latter's health. When they arrived here the weather from a warmer climate and being rendered especially susceptible by the Hot Springs treatment, caught a bad cold within a day or so after reaching home, when he drove the hearse team at the funeral of Mrs. Ad DeBOLT. Failing to shake off this attack, he gradually drifted into pneumonia and the last week of his sickness witnessed a strenuous but losing battle for his life on the part of nurse and physicians.
Deceased was born near the village of DeWitt and was aged 58 years, 1 month and 5 days. He was the son of William and Marry A. WINSLOW, who were prominent residents of the DeWitt neighborhood, the mother dying in 1886 and the father in 1901. Of his three brothers only one, Charles L. WINSLOW, of this city, remains. George continued to live near the place of his birth, worked faithfully, managed carefully and in time accumulated about 400 acres of land. He was married Feb. 13, 1873, to Miss Mary WILLIAMS, daughter of the late Presley and Mary WILLIAMS, and they became the parents of two children, Fred WINSLOW and Mrs. Carl McCONKEY, both of whom live on land belonging to their father.
Mr. and Mrs. Winslow bought property in this city about eight years ago and moved into town, but, though retired, Mr. Winslow led a very active life, being of vigorous frame and industrious disposition. He assisted Stensel Bros. in most of their funeral work, and they are earnest in their testimony that he was most faithful, willing and useful; he looked well to the interest of his farms and the welfare of his children, and no distance was too great or weather too bad for George Winslow to be prevented from visiting a friend in sickness or distress. This community has lost a most valuable member and the loss is fully realized on every hand.
Deceased was a member of DeWitt lodge No. 183, I. O. O. F., of Parnell, the Masonic order, Knights of Pythias, U. R. K. P., Red Men and fire department of Farmer City. In all these connections he was faithful and dependable.
The funeral services were held in the M. E. church Sunday afternoon, the Parnell Odd Fellows having charge and the uniform rank acting as escort. The other local organizations of which deceased was a member provided the pall-bearers. Many handsome floral tributes were given. A large number of friends from the Parnell and DeWitt neighborhoods joined with his fellow citizens in paying the last tribute of respect and the church was more than filled. After the sermon by Rev. C. F. BUKER the remains were laid to rest with the honors of Odd Fellowship in Maple Grove cemetery.
Submitted by Patricia Fryman
Mrs. Mary J. WINSLOW
June 19, 1908
Clinton Register
MRS. MARY J. WINSLOW DEAD.
Mrs. Mary J. WINSLOW, formerly a resident of Clinton, died recently at the home of her son, Howard WINSLOW, at Oxford, Kan., of cancer. Deceased was born in Pike county, Illinois, November 22, 1825. She was twice married, first to Samuel WINSLOW; after his death she was married to his brother, D. B. WINSLOW. She was the mother of Mrs. Jacob MAY, whose death occurred about four years ago. She is survived by one son, one brother and five sisters. Remains were brought to Clinton for burial, and funeral services were held Sunday at the Baptist church.
Mary (JEFFREY) WINSLOW
August 15, 1884
Clinton Public
Mrs. Warren S. WINSLOW died very suddenly last evening. A week ago she had an attack of cholera-morbus, and had so far recovered that she was able to leave her bed. A couple of days ago she was again prostrated with inflammation of the bowels, and this caused her death. Mr. WINSLOW has been out near Larned, Kans., hunting a location, and as he is away from the reach of telegraphic or railroad communication they cannot get him word to come home. The first news from home will be the sad intelligence of the death of his wife.
Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WINSLOW, WARREN S. JEFFREY, MARY ELLEN
01/26/1861 DEWITT
Mary (McCONKEY) WINSLOW
July 26, 1907
The Farmer City Journal
A Mother at Rest.
Mrs. Mary M. Winslow Succumbs to Paralysis.
Mary M. McCONKEY was born in Clark county, Ohio, April 9, 1855, and came to Illinois with her parents when but a small child of 4 years. She was stricken with paralysis on Wednesday morning, July 17, at the home of her niece, Mrs. Geo. L. BEATTY, southwest of Farmer City. She never regained consciousness and passed to spirit life Friday evening, July 19.
She was married to Leander WINSLOW on March 16, 1871, and to this union were born seven children, four boys and three girls, only two of whom survive—Mrs. Luella WILLIAMS, of New Canton, Ill., and Edward WINSLOW, of Alton, Ill. The husband passed to the higher life about four years ago.
In addition to the two children mentioned there survive nine grandchildren and the following sisters and brothers: Mrs. B. S. BARNES, Farmer City; Mrs. Ida CHAPIN McPHERSON, Kan.; Alec M. McCONKEY, Wellington, Kan.; James W. and Charles McCONKEY, Storm Lake, Iowa; Archie and Tom McCONKEY, DeWitt county, Ill.
At the age of 15 she joined the M. P. church, but of late years was a member of the Free Progressive church of Farmer City. She was loved by all who knew her and we deeply mourn her departure.
The funeral was held on Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the home of her niece, Mrs. BEATTY, and was attended by a large concourse of friends and neighbors. The remains were brought to the home of Mrs. BARNES that evening and at 6:30 on Monday morning they were taken to her home in Pike county for burial.
A Relative.
Lying peacefully and quiet
In its narrow little home,
Her body is calmly
resting,
For its last days work is done;
But life's sun had a glorious
setting,
All rosy and golden hued.
As she entered that beautiful city
Her pathway with flowers was strewed.
She was such a loving mother,
And a true and faithful friend,
Ever ready and always willing
A helping
hand to lend.
To the one who stood in need of her
In life's weary pilgrim
road.
Ever ready to bear their burdens and help lift their heavy load.
We all shall miss her presence
And her dear and loving face;
There be
none within the home life
Who can fill her vacant place,
But she's waiting,
only waiting,
In her home so bright and fair,
Just to welcome all her
loved ones
When they're called to meet her there.
A Friend.
Submitted by Patricia Fryman
Meddie (BRUSTER) WINSLOW
March 19, 1886
Clinton Public
Mrs. Meddie M., wife of Orlando R. WINSLOW, formerly of Clinton, died at her home in Marshfield, Mo., on the 9th of March, in the 39th year of her age. Mrs. Winslow was born in Pittsburg, Indiana, and eighteen years ago she was married to Mr. Winslow in this city. Eight years ago the family moved from Clinton to Marshfield. She was a model wife and mother, and was loved and respected for her womanly virtues.
From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WINSLOW, ORLANDO R. BRUSTER, MARY M
03/01/1868 DE WITT
Stillman WINSLOW
April 4, 1938
Paper Unknown
Stillman WINSLOW, 80, died in the county farm at Hallsville Saturday at 1 PM after an extended illness.
Funeral services will be held in the Weldon M. E, Church Monday at 2 PM in charge of Rev, J.R, KESTERSON, pastor. Burial will be in the Weldon Cemetery.
He was born at Dewitt November 8, 1858, a son of Jerry and Martha (DAY) WINSLOW, and was married to Harriet COX, who preceded him in death. He leaves one brother, Marion WINSLOW, of Dewitt.
Submitted by Charlotte English
Mrs. Stillman WINSLOW
1934
Paper Unknown
Mrs. S.A. WINSLOW passed away about 11:30 o'clock Monday night after weeks illness with heart trouble and complications.
Hattie [Harriet] COX, daughter of William and Betty COX was born near Maroa November 10, 1863, and spent her girlhood days there. She was united in marriage with S. A. [Stillman] WINSLOW in Clinton in the fall of 1880. After their marriage, they moved to a farm south of Weldon where they resided until about 1900, when they gave up farming, moving to Weldon.
The deceased leaves, beside her husband, three brothers; Fred COX of Decatur, Matthew and William COX both of Clinton.
She was a member of the M. E. church, also a member of the Rebekah and Pythian Sisters lodges of Weldon.
The funeral was held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the M E church Rev S N Madden officiating assisted by Rev. L. S. KIDD. The Rebekahs and Pythian Sisters had charge of the services at the grave.
Among those present from a distance were Pete WINSLOW and wife, Frank WINSLOW and wife, and Elmer WINSLOW and wife, all of Dewitt; Roy JOSEPH and wife, Leo JOSEPH and wife, and Fred COX, all of Decatur; Matt COX, Ralph COX and wife, W. L. COX and family, Oliver HALLl and wife, Herschel CLINE, Paul DEETERS and wife, and Mrs. Harry WEST, all of Clinton; and Fred WEIGS and family of Maroa.
Submitted by Charlotte English
--------------------1934
Paper Unknown
(Obituary Extract)
MRS. S. A. WINSLOW DIES.
Name: Hattie (COX) WINSLOW
Date: 1934
Born: November 10, 1863, near
Maroa
Parents: William and Betty COX
Married: S. A. WINSLOW, fall of
1880
Survivors: Husband; Brothers: Fred COX, Decatur, Matthew and William
COX, Clinton.
Funeral: M. E. church on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Rev.
S. N. MADDEN officiated with assistance of Rev. L. S. KIDD.
Burial: Weldon
Cemetery
Submitted by Debbie Champion
From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WINSLOW, STILLMAN COX, HARRIET R.
10/28/1880 DE WITT
William WINSLOW
April 20, 1900
Farmer City Journal
At his home one mile west of Fullerton on Tuesday morning, April 17, occurred the death of William WINSLOW, a pioneer resident, aged 73 years, 3 months, 4 days.
Deceased was born in Jefferson Co, New York, Jan. 13, 1827. He was the third of a family of nine children. At the age of 7 years he moved with his parents to Cleveland O., and in 1839 they made the overland journey to DeWitt County, where he resided continuously until the end.
He was married on Dec. 13, 1849, to Mary A. CALLISOM, who died March 5, 1894. To this union four sons were born, two of whom died at an early age. In addition to the surviving, George A. and Charles L., there remain two sisters, two brothers and five grand-children. His last sickness was very short, being of only 5 days duration.
Submitted by Debbie Champion
--------------------April 20, 1900
Clinton Register
Wm. WINSLOW died at his home near Dewitt Tuesday, age 80. His sons George and Charles, live near Dewitt. Funeral was held at Fullerton, Wednesday at 2 o'clock.
Submitted by Charlotte English
Mrs. William WINSLOW
October 30, 1908
The Farmer City Journal
Mrs. William WINSLOW, cousin of Mrs. James OWEN and Miss Mattie GARDINER, died at Detroit, Mich., on Monday. She is survived by her husband and three sons and the following brothers and sisters: James LISENBY of Clinton, John LISENBY of Champaign, Mrs. Minnie GARRIGUS of Decatur and Mrs. Ed SACKETT of Springfield, O. Deceased formerly resided at Weldon.
Submitted by Patricia Fryman
Edward WIST
October 23, 1885
Clinton Public
A Brakeman Killed.
On Monday afternoon, as the freight train was going east on the Springfield Division, Edward WIST, the forward brakeman, fell from the top of a box car and received such injuries that he died within three hours afterward. The engineer had whistled down brakes as the train was approaching Birkbeck station, and Wist, while stepping from one car to another, fell off. The wheels cut across his left arm from above the wrist to nearly the shoulder, crushing his arm to a jelly and breaking the bones. The train hands did not miss him from his station, and it was only when a woman, who saw him fall off, signaled with her apron, that the train came to a stop. The hands went back and found Wist alongside the track, carried him to Birkbeck, where he was placed in a box car and a dispatch was sent back to Clinton announcing the accident. Word was sent to Superintendent WILKENSON at Springfield, who telephoned orders to Surgeon GOODBRAKE to go out to Birkbeck and attend to the injuries of Wist. The doctor went to Birkbeck on a special engine, and finding Wist in such a condition that nothing could be done for him there he had him brought to Clinton. They took Wist into Haines' hotel at the depot, where the poor fellow died within half an hour. He complained of feeling sore in his body and head. There was a deep gash on his forehead, probably caused by his striking on a spike as he fell from the car. Wist had on a new pair of boots and these, with the slippery condition on the top of the cars on account of the rain, made his footing insecure. He had been on the road for about a year, and was an active man at his work. He leaves a wife and one child and his mother, all living in Springfield, and he was also the only support of his widowed mother.
An inquest was held by Justice McHENRY, and a verdict returned in accordance with the above facts. The Central company ordered a casket in this city and had the body sent to Springfield on Tuesday morning, from whence it was taken to Decatur for burial.
Mrs. Martha WITHERS
March 10, 1882
Clinton Public
Mrs. Martha WITHERS, an old resident of this city, died at the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. Thos. LEONARD, in Barnett township, on last Friday night [March 3], after a short illness. Funeral services were held in the M. E. Church in this city on Sunday morning, and her remains were interred in Woodlawn cemetery. During her life Mrs. Withers had been an earnest Christian woman, was a devoted mother, and kind neighbor.
Mr. & Mrs. Isaac F. WOLCOTT
September 14, 1894
Clinton Public
MURDER AND SUICIDE.
Isaac F. WOLCOTT, a young farmer living near Chestnut, shot and killed his wife, on Wednesday afternoon, at their home, and then with the same double-barreled shotgun killed himself. Isaac Wolcott was a stepson of Mrs. Slemmer's, a sister of Jacob VOGEL's and Oscar WOODWARD's wives, and this gives the unfortunate occurrence some local interest in this city, as Mrs. Slemmer was a resident of Clinton before her marriage to Isaac's father.
It was a case of man's perfidy to the mother of his children. The couple were united in marriage on the 30th of November, 1883. She was the daughter of Mr. MICHENER, a prominent farmer and grain dealer who lived at Chestnut. Shortly after their marriage, Isaac began a course of licentious conduct and kept it up till she finally left him on the first day of last April when she caught him in her own house in flagrante delicto with one Bertha LANGHERY. This outrageous insult was more than the wife and mother could bear, and she began proceedings for divorce and alimony. Isaac owned 198 acres in Macon County and 412 acres near Chestnut, besides some $2500 worth of personal property. He was worth from $35,000 to $40,000, and all of the property was made by their joint efforts, as Isaac had nothing when they were married. Last Tuesday Mrs. WOLCOTT was in Lincoln arranging with her attorneys for divorce proceedings, and then a consultation was had between the husband and wife. She wanted to get her clothing and some articles of furniture from her late home to which her husband readily consented. On Wednesday Mrs. Wolcott started to her husband's home farm to get the articles, and on the way she was met by Isaac, who accompanied her home. Mrs. Wolcott took the precaution to have an officer with her, fearing personal violence from her husband. Arriving at their home Wolcott wept bitterly when his wife's trunk was packed and ready to be carried out of the house, and he begged her to forgive him and remain. The poor wife was touched with pity but when she remembered all the years of licentious and brutal indignity he had heaped upon her, she declared the time was past or forgiveness. Wolcott then picked up a double-barreled shotgun and fired at her, the charge tearing off one side of her head. Mrs. Wolcott lived about twenty minutes. Wolcott immediately shot himself with the remaining load, tearing off the top of his head.
Three children are left orphans—Oscar E., aged nine years; Ruby, seven years; and Roscoe, aged two years. Two children died in infancy. Isaac Wolcott, when a boy, lived in Clinton and worked in Vogel & Woodard's shoe store a few months as a bookkeeper.
Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WALCOTT, ISAAC T. MICHENA, EVALINE
10/31/1883 LOGAN
Mary Ann (BELL) WOLFE
July 4, 1902
Clinton Register
ANOTHER MOTHER CALLED.
Mrs. Wolf Dies After an Illness of Nearly Three Months—
Had Lived
in Clinton Forty-Seven Years.
Mrs. Philip WOLF [aka WOLFE], who had been sick nearly three months, died about 2 o'clock Sunday night at her home on West Jefferson street, aged 66 years and 26 days, of Bright's disease. Her recovery had been past hope for several days and all her children had been called to Clinton.
Mary Ann BELL was born in Hancock, O., June 4, 1836, being the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry BELL, who moved from Ohio to Clinton in 1853, settling in Clinton, where Mr. Bell became a member of the firm of TAYLOR & BELL in dealing in dry goods and groceries. In 1856 fire destroyed the store. He then bought a farm in Wilson township, where the family soon moved to and lived there until 1892, when they again moved to Clinton.
In 1855 Philip Wolf and Mary A. Bell were married, and Clinton had since been their home. Three children were born to them, who with the husband are living. Laura married Rev. E. A. HAMILTON, and Rossville is their home; Annie married Reuben HUSTON, of Monticello; and Belle, who married J. F. DeLAND, and Clinton has been their home. Three sisters also live in Clinton, Mrs. Sarah DICKEY, widow of Thos. DICKEY, who died in 1880; Martha J. BELL, who lives with her; and Mrs. Geo. GEER. She united with the M. E. church when young and had remained true to her Master. She was a kind wife and an affectionate mother.
Funeral services were held at the residence Wednesday at 2:30, conducted by Rev. S. H. WHITLOCK, assisted by Rev. CANADY. Interment in Woodlawn.
(See photo)
Philip WOLFE
September 1925
Paper Unknown
Aged Citizen Passed Away.
Philip WOLFE, 94 years of age, prominent citizen of Clinton, passed away at 6:30 o'clock last night in the John Warner hospital, following an operation performed earlier in the day. Mr. Wolfe had been in poor health the past few weeks, and two weeks ago was removed to the hospital for treatment. His condition became such that an operation was necessary, but he was unable to withstand the shock.
For the past several years Mr. Wolfe had resided in the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. F. DeLAND and husband, 320 South Center street. For many years Mr. Wolfe had been a familiar figure about the square and rarely missed a day coming uptown. Until a few weeks ago he had retained his strength and vigor and weather conditions seldom deterred him from his usual visits about the city. His wonderful retention of his faculties had been the subject of remarks by his friends and those with whom he came in contact for many years, for he had remained active mentally as he had retained his strength and activity. He kept in touch with present day affairs and attended his own business matters until the last.
Mr. Wolfe was the man who built the first brick building on the west side of the square, the building now occupied by Aquilla BENNETT as a hardware store, which was built by Mr. Wolfe in 1872. He conducted a hardware and implement store there until 1884, when he disposed of his business to the late I. N. BAILOR, and since that time had lived in semi-retirement, but continued to take care of his business affairs. He had accummulated 240 acres of land and owned city property, which occupied his time.
Born in Ohio, June 14, 1831, Mr. Wolfe came to Illinois with his parents eighty-eight years ago. In 1846 the family came to DeWitt county and settled in the Tunbridge neighborhood. The old mill at Tunbridge, one of the earliest landmarks of the county, was in full operation at that time as a combination lumber and grist mill and was conducted by Jesse STOUT, an uncle of Mr. Wolfe, and known far and wide as one of the earliest and best millers in the state. While employed in this mill in his youth Mr. Wolfe made the walnut boards used in the construction of the Methodist church that was recently torn down, after having been converted into a residence several years ago, on South Madison street. This church was erected in 1851. Mr. Wolfe came to Clinton in 1853 and entered business here. At that time the town was made up of frame shacks, and had little of the appearance of a city. He had much to do with its development and was one of the most active citizens.
His wife was Miss Mary BELL, also of a prominent DeWitt county family. Her death occurred several years ago. In addition to Mrs. DeLAND, he leaves the following daughters, Mrs. HAMILTON of Tennessee and Mrs. Anna HOUSTON of Monticello. He was a member of the Methodist Episcobal church of this city and was one of its most staunch supporters for a period of many years. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday and interment will be in Woodlawn cemetery. Details, including the hour and place from which the services will be conducted will be announced later.
Submitted by Marlyn Duff.
Rebecca (STOUT) WOLFE
October 13, 1893
Clinton Public
Obituary of Rebecca (Stout) Wolfe.
More than fourscore years had
she counted.
Rebecca Stout was born in Logan County, Ohio, near Bellefontaine, December 10, 1810, and died at her late residence in this city October 9, aged eighty-three years, ten months and one day.
She lived in Logan County, Ohio, to young womanhood, and where she enjoyed the limited privileges and religion peculiar to those early days. She was of a large and vigorous and enterprising family of brothers and sisters, of where Colonel Thomas Stout, of the Mexican war, and Jesse Stout, who died in this city a few years ago.
She was united in marriage to John B. Wolfe, Sr. December 23, 1828, with whom she enjoyed a happy married life for forty years. he died April 12, 1868.They moved to what is now called Mulberry Grove, Illinois. in 1838, where they remained until 1845, when they moved to [Montrose], Iowa. In 1846 they came to De Witt County where they a farm Tunbridge, and lived until 1854, when they moved to Clinton. Her brother and sister Wolfe lived until the good angels came to conduct them to the of God.
Mother Wolfe, though raised by Quaker parents, was converted in young girlhood and united with the Methodist Episcopal Church nearly sixty-five years ago— when the family lived near Tunbridge the grove near the old home was often used for religious services in summer time, and their home was always open to the itinerant preacher. After moving to Clinton, the young peoples class meeting was held Sunday afternoons for years at Father Wolfe's residence, and much of the time was conducted by Prof. T. N. McCorkle, well known here and in many places in Illinois as an efficient teacher in our public schools, and a devoted Christan gentleman.
the subject of this memoir was the mother of nine children, six daughters and three sons, seven of whom are living, viz.,Elizabeth Humphrey and Phillip Wolfe, of this city, Margaret Humphrey, of Lincoln; Mary Jane Wolfe — George S. Taylor, Pana, Rev. J. R. Wolfe of California Conference; Rev. doctor J. B. Wolfe, presiding Elder of the Bloomington District; and Kate Brown of this city.
Mother wolfe was a woman of unusual determination on lines of her conviction of duty, and of extraordinary strength of endurance. She did her whole duty as a helpmeet in the toils loyalties of life, and no mother could be interested in and devoted to her children than she was to hers. there are some things remarkable in her life, not so much her energy, her endurance, her volitional power, but in the mist of these a calmness of demenor and sweetness of disposition rarely equaled on earth. In all her toils and trials, hope and fears, those who have known her for a half century never saw her what we commonly call angry. She never talked ill of her neighbors, and always had some palliating word for the unfortunate; and to her children were as near right as any children could be. The funeral services were held in the M. E. Church on Tuesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. W. J. Tull, pastor of the Church.
Submitted by Mary Vanderheydt
Mrs. Ann J. WOOD
August 10, 1883
Clinton Public
Death of Mrs. Wood.
On yesterday afternoon Mrs. Ann J. WOOD died at her late residence in this city, at the age of 57 years, 2 months, and 18 days. For the past twenty years Mrs. Wood has been a continual sufferer from heart disease, and about two weeks ago she was taken quite ill with the flux. Her old heart troubles manifested themselves in their utmost severity, and a combination of these two diseases was what produced her death. Mrs. Wood was born in Morgan county, Virginia, June 26, and was married in 1844 to Mr. James E. WOOD, who met his death some years ago in falling off a bridge. In 1863 they removed to where they have since resided. Mrs. Wood was a Christian woman, uniting with the church when she was quite young. She was the mother of twelve children, five of whom survive her. Her funeral will take place this afternoon, at two o’clock, in the Methodist Church.
Mrs. Claus WOOD
October 2, 1914
Clinton Register
DIED IN HOSPITAL.
About four o'clock yesterday afternoon in the Warner hospital occurred the death of a young mother, Mrs. Claus WOOD, after two weeks illness of pneumonia. The disease developed following the birth of a child two weeks ago. Convulsions first were manifest, leaving the patient in a condition too weak to combat the lung trouble. The body was removed to the Oakman undertaking rooms and after being prepared for burial was taken to the home of her parents, Elijah WELCH and wife on East Washington street. She was aged eighteen years. She is survived by the babe, her husband and parents, also three brothers, Elmer, Fred and John, all residing in Clinton. Funeral services will be held from the home of the parents at 1118 East Washington street tomorrow afternoon. Burial in Woodlawn.
Note: She was listed as Leona A. Welch in the 1900 census.
Eva Ellen WOOD
November 19, 1863
Clinton Public
DIED.—In this town, Saturday Nov. 7, Eva Ellen, daughter of Rev. P. and J. K. WOOD. Aged 1 year and 2 days.
Emiline (TORBERT) WOODS
August 30, 1895
Clinton Public
Mrs. Emiline WOODS, wife of Judge Jerry C. WOODS, departed this life August 22, 1895, at her late home in Golden City, Mo., of cancer of the stomach, aged sixty-five years.
Deceased was born in Sussex county, Delaware, in 1830, and in 1835 moved to Ohio. For twenty-four years she had been a resident of near this city, gathering about her a large circle of friends. In 1879, she moved to Golden City, Mo., where she remained until death called her to life's rewards. She was a sister of C. P. TORBERT, of Clinton, and Mrs. Samuel MYERS, of Lane. Only these two out of a family of eight survive. Her afflicted husband and three children also survive her, one child having died in infancy. Early in life she became a member of the Methodist church, and always enthusiastically affiliated with this denomination. Remains were buried at Golden City. C. P. Torbert, of Clinton, had been to see his deceased sister about two weeks ago, and found her prepared to meet her God.
Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WOODS, JEREMIAH C. TORBERT, MARY
01/31/1858 DE WITT
Samuel WOODS
July 1, 1910
Clinton Register
Old Soldier Dead.
Sunday at St. John’s hospital in Springfield occurred the death of Samuel WOODS, formerly a well known resident of this county. The cause of death was cancer of the face, from which he had suffered for several years.
Samuel Woods was born March 14, 1844, in Perry county, O., and at an early age enlisted in the 18th Ohio Volunteers serving until the close of the war of the rebellion.
He was married December 28, 1866, to Miss Mary J. SPRAGUE. To this union were born eight children, of whom five survive: C. A. WOODS, of Hallsville; Mrs. E. H. PORTER, Clinton; Mrs. H. M. HILLS, and Mrs. Edward STUBBS, of Springfield, Ill.; and Mrs. Willard JOHNSON, of Hallsville. Besides the wife he is also survived by two brothers, residing in Ohio.
Remains were brought to Clinton and funeral services were held Tuesday at the home of Mrs. E. H. Porter Tuesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. E. A. Gilliland of Lincoln. Interment in Woodlawn cemetery.
Mrs. Samuel WOODS
December 26, 1918
Clinton Daily Public
PIONEER RESIDENT DIES AT AGE OF 75.
Mrs. Mary Jane Woods, Known as
Grandma Woods, Dies Christmas Day From Pneumonia.
Mrs. Mary Jane (SPRAGUE) WOODS, known to hundreds in this community as "Grandma" Woods and a pioneer of DeWitt county, passed away on Christmas eve at 7 o'clock at the home of Dr. W. H. McLEAN of Hallsville at the age of 75 years. She had gone to Hallsville to nurse her son, Augustus, ill with influenza near that place, a week ago. While in attendance on her son she contracted the disease and passed away. Without a doubt "Grandma" Woods was one of best known of the older residents of this community. For the past sixteen years she was engaged as housekeeper in the home of B. F. Staymates of this city.
"Grandma" Woods, as she was familiarly known, was a cousin of John, B. C., and Peter SPRAGUE, all of this city and of James and W. J. SPRAGUE of Barnett township. She was born in Marietta, Ohio, on July 26, 1843, and in 1868 was married to Samuel WOODS of Athens, Ohio. The couple, after years of residence at Nelsonville, Ohio, moved to DeWitt county in 1879 and have resided here ever since. Mr. Woods, a civil war veteran and well known and respected here, died four years ago of cancer in a Springfield hospital. For the past sixteen years Mrs. Woods was the housekeeper of the B. F. STAYMATES home at 426 North Maple street and had become to be regarded as a member of that family. She was loved and cherished by the Staymates as a mother. During late years deceased had been in good health and despite her age her only ailment was an occasional attack of heart trouble.
A week ago, because of the illness of her son Augustus, Mrs. Woods decided to go to his bedside at his home eight miles west of Clinton to attend him. He was seriously ill with influenza. Here Mrs. Woods contracted the disease and was removed to the home of Dr. W. H. McLean at Hallsville, where her daughter and her husband are residing. Her death occurred there Tuesday. The son is still in a precarious condition. Mrs. Woods was a member of the DeWitt County Old Settlers association and has regularly attended each and every annual session when possible. She was also a devout member of the Christian church.
The deceased is survived by four daughters and one son. The daughters are Mrs. Della PORTER, of Saluda, S. Car.; Mrs. Grace JOHNSON, of Hallsville, at whose home she passed away; Mrs. Reliance STUBBS, of Springfield, who was at her bedside when death occurred; and Mrs. Gertrude HILLS, of Edinburg, Ill. The son is Augustus, who is ill at his home eight miles west of the city. A daughter and a son died several years ago. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made pending the arrival of the daughter from South Carolina. The death of this well known and lovable woman has left a vacant spot in the heart of the many who knew and were acquainted with her.
Note: Samuel Woods died in 1910, not 1914.
Isabel (McPHERSON) WOODWARD
February 28, 1896
Clinton Register
DIED IN CALIFORNIA.
Mrs. Isabel Woodward Is Summoned to Her Final
Rest at the Home of Her Son.
Last week D. T. GAY received a telegram from O. J. WOODWARD at Fresno, Cal., announcing the dangerous illness of Grandma WOODWARD…. Sunday night about 8 o'clock Mr. Gay received a telegram announcing her death, and that the body would be brought here for burial. Mr. WOODWARD is on the way to Clinton with the remains, and Mr. Gay left Wednesday evening for Kansas City where he will meet Mr. Woodward, and they expect to arrive here on the Diamond Special tonight.
Isabel B. McPHERSON was born near Knoxville, Tenn., March 1 1812, and would have been 84 years old next Sunday. In 1834 she was married to Jesse WOODWARD in Virginia. To them were born three sons and two daughters, two of whom, one son and one daughter are living. Mrs. D. T. GAY, of this city was an adopted daughter. The family came to Illinois over fifty years ago settling in Logan county. The husband died several years ago, and Mrs. Woodward continued to live in Clinton. At the time of his death they lived in a house where the Register office now is. Mr. Woodward previous to the war built and occupied the house now owned by Richard BUTLER. After O. J. Woodward located in Fresno, Cal., a few years ago, his mother had spent most of her time there. During her residence there she had made the journey to California three times the last time being in 1893 when 81 years old. She united with the Methodist church when 20 years of age, and for 64 years had lived the life of a consistent Christian. Soon after her fatal sickness of one week, she had a stroke of partial paralysis….
Submitted by Bob Halsey
John WOODWARD
April 25, 1879
Clinton Public
Death of John Woodward.
On Wednesday last, the mortal remains of John WOODWARD were consigned to the grave in Woodlawn Cemetery. For the past five months he had been confined to his home with consumption, only at rare intervals being enabled to attend to the business of his farm. Mr. Woodward was but a young man in years, being only thirty-eight at the time of his death. He was born in Logan county, and at a very early age came to this city to live. Here he was reared and educated, till abut ten years ago he moved on a farm in Texas township. For the past four years he lived in Creek. He was a hard-working, industrious man and was highly esteemed as a friend and neighbor. He was married to Mr. Samuel Phares' daughter and was the father of six children, the eldest of whom is under fourteen years of age. Of late years his thoughts were turned to the unknown future, and just before his death he gave expression to his hopes beyond the grave. This consolation was sweet to his aged mother and beloved wife. "Death's but a path that must be trod, if man would ever pass to God." Mr. Woodward died last Monday afternoon. The funeral services were held in the M. E. Church in this city on Wednesday morning, and were conducted by Dr. Leaton.
Mrs. Mattie WOODWARD
February 14, 1896
Clinton Public
Died of Consumption
Mrs. Mattie WOODWARD, wife of Fred WOODWARD, of Lane, died of consumption at her home at 11 o’clock Tuesday night. She had been sick nearly a year, but confined to bed only about two weeks. A child and husband are left to mourn their loss. Funeral service will be conducted by Rev. L. B. PICKERILL, of this city, at 1 o’clock p.m. Thursday. Interment in Rose Cemetery.
Mary (WAGGONER) WOOLLEN
August 1931
Paper Unknown
(Obituary Abstract)
MRS. S. K. WOOLLEN EXPIRES ON SUNDAY.
Name: Mary Olive (WAGGONER) WOOLLEN
Born: December 15, 1868, near Green
Castle, Ind.
Married: S. K. WOOLLEN, July 4, 1884
Survivors: Husband.
Children: Nellie MAYALL, Maroa; Henry S. WOOLLEN, Wapella; Edgar K. WOOLLEN, Opa
JENKINS and Otis S. WOOLLEN all of Clinton. Brothers: J. A. WAGGONER, Clinton; S.
G. WAGGONER, Mammoth Springs, Mo.; John WAGGONER, Clinton. Sisters: Mrs. Henry N.
WOOLLEN, Lane, and Mrs. William YOUNGER, Bethany.
Funeral: Reeser's funeral
home, Tuesday at 2:30 o'clock. O. P. WRIGHT, officiated.
Burial: Woodlawn
Cemetery
Sunday, August 23, 1931
Submitted by Debbie Champion
Mrs. Otis WOOLLEN
July 4, 1928
Paper Unknown
(Obituary Extract)
Name: Myrtle (REYNOLDS) WOOLLEN.
Age: 18.
Born: September 22, 1909,
near Wapella.
Parents: William and Elizabeth REYNOLDS.
Died: Thursday,
1:45 p.m., at John Warner Hospital, Clinton, Illinois.
Married: Otis WOOLLEN,
December 25, 1926.
Funeral: Christian church in Wapella, Saturday afternoon
at 2:30 o'clock, with Rev. William ICENOGLE officiating.
Burial: Woodlawn
cemetery.
Submitted by Debbie Champion
--------------------July 4, 1928
Clinton Daily Journal and Public
MRS. OTIS WOOLLEN IS ACCIDENTALLY KILLED AT HOME IN WAPELLA.
Mrs. Otis WOOLLEN, 18, of Wapella, passed away at the John Warner hospital in Clinton Thursday afternoon at 1:45 o'clock from gun shot wounds suffered in an accident on the afternoon of July 4th, at her home three miles east of Wapella.
The accident which resulted in her death occurred shortly after the noon hour Wednesday while Mrs. Woollen was mopping the back porch. For several days a mink had been bothering the young chickens on the Woollen place and Mr. Woollen had put a shot gun on the porch with which he hoped to kill the animal. Afraid to pick up the gun, Mrs. Woollen attempted to mop around it. In doing this, the gun was knocked over and accidentally discharged. The bullet entered her left side, tearing off the left breast, passing through the left side and lodging in her abdomen.
Mr. Woollen who works at the I. C. freight house in Clinton, drove into the garage just after the accident happened, and when he entered the house he found his wife unconscious on the floor. Help was summoned and Mrs. Woollen rushed to the hospital where every effort was made to save her life.
Myrtle REYNOLDS was born near Wapella, September 22, 1909, the daughter of William and Elizabeth REYNOLDS. She was united in marriage to Otis WOOLLEN at Wapella, December 25, 1926. No children were born to the union. She was a member of the Wapella Christian church.
Funeral services will be conducted from the Christian church in Wapella Saturday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, with Rev. William ICENOGLE officiating. Interment will be made in Woodlawn cemetery.
Mrs. Mary WOOLLEY
September 7, 1906
Clinton Register
DIED IN KANSAS.
Mrs. Mary WOOLLEY, formerly of Texas township, died last week at her home in Riverdale, Kan., the funeral being conducted by Rev. J. E. CAIN, who was pastor of the Texas Christian church when deceased resided in that township.
Mrs. Woolley is survived by five children: Tylee, who lives in Iowa; Alfred, Susie, Joseph and Martha, the two latter live in California and were not at the funeral. Her husband, Elihu WOOLLEY, died May 6, 1900. His brother Joseph moved from this county to Iowa about two years ago.
The family moved from Mason county to Texas township about forty years ago, and lived there until about twenty-five years ago, when they moved to Kansas. Deceased was about 75 years old, and had been a faithful member of the Christian church most of her life.
Vernon WORKMAN
November 1918
Paper Unknown
DEATH OF VERN WORKMAN AFTER A BRAVE STRUGGLE.
Stricken With Influenza and Then Pneumonia.
Vernon WORKMAN was taken ill with influenza about two weeks ago, which later developed into pneumonia. The young man made a brave fight and it was thought his recovery was certain, when, on Monday he became worse and passed away at 11:45 a.m. The funeral services were held in the Weldon cemetery Wednesday, November 13, at 2 o’clock, p.m., conducted by Rev. O. W. LOUGH, pastor of the M. P. church.
Vernon O. Workman was born near Maroa, Ill., July 27, 1892, and died in Weldon, Ill., Nov. 11, 1918, being 26 years, 3 months and 14 days of age. On November 27, 1912, he united in marriage with Fannie Opal ADAMS, who with the following children, survive: Charles A., Richard Vernelle, Leo Marian and Virginia Eileen; also his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James WORKMAN, and a sister, Mrs. Bessie BEBIE. They will mourn the loss of a kind and loving husband, father, son and brother.
The first ten years of his life was spent near the place of his birth and the balance of his life near Weldon, until after his marriage, when he moved to Weldon to reside. He was of great assistance to his father and took great pride in his work. His was a happy disposition and he had many friends. Mrs. WORKMAN, his wife, who cared for him, contracted the disease and was unable to attend the funeral.
Submitted by Debbie Champion
Emma WRIGHT
June 12, 1891
Clinton Public
Miss Emma WRIGHT was the daughter of William WRIGHT, formerly of Wapella, and a niece of Dr. WRIGHT, of this city. She died in Bloomington last Monday after a long and painful illness of five months. She was born in Wapella on the 3d of April, 1861, and her early life was spent in that village. About eleven years ago her father moved from Wapella to Peoria, and later from Peoria to Bloomington. Her remains were taken to Heyworth on Wednesday afternoon for burial by the side of a sister.
Grace WRIGHT
November 28, 1890
Clinton Public
On last Saturday night W. H. WRIGHT’s only daughter, Grace, aged thirteen years, died of diphtheria. This is the second death in his family from this dread disease, the first being his youngest child, a boy. And during all this time Mrs. WRIGHT has also been afflicted with diphtheria. When Grace first took sick she had a premonition that she would not recover, and told her father so, but last Friday morning there was a change for the better and she began to hope that her life would be spared. During all these weeks the family has been isolated, and were it not for the large-heartedness of Mrs. LESTER, who accepted the responsibility of nursing the sick mother and daughter, Mr. Wright must have been left alone to care for his afflicted family.
Jane WRIGHT
March 6, 1885
Clinton Public
Died, at Bloomington, on February 28, Miss Jane WRIGHT, in the fifty-first year of her age. Miss Wright was a sister of Dr. WRIGHT, of Clinton. She was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, March 1st, 1834. Since coming to Illinois, in 1858, she has lived most of the time in Bloomington. During her life she was quiet and unassuming; strictly honest in all her dealings, and a believer in the Christian religion. She was buried at Heyworth, on last Monday. Funeral services were conducted in the Heyworth Presbyterian Church, by Rev. W. A. HUNTER, of Clinton.
John H. WRIGHT
January 10, 1913
Clinton Register
WELL-KNOWN RESIDENT DIES.
John H. Wright, the West Main St.
Gardner, Died Sunday After Short Illness.
At 12:30 Sunday afternoon, at his home on West Main street, Clinton, occurred the death of John H. WRIGHT, the well-known gardener. Mr. Wright had been ill only about two weeks, but his condition was not considered serious until last Friday.
John H. Wright was born in Clonakilty, county of Cork, Ireland, January 3, 1841. He enlisted in the One Hundred Thirteenth Illinois volunteers at Kankakee in 1862 and after serving for three years received his honorable discharge. He was united in marriage to Eliza E. DAVIS at Herscher, Ill., February 23, 1869. To this marriage five children were born, the three daughters being deceased; a son, Pierpont WRIGHT, resides at the West Main street home and William D. WRIGHT resides with his family at 419 West Adams street, this city. Besides the widow, surviving, deceased has a brother, Rev. W. E. WRIGHT, an Episcopalian minister residing at Geneva, Ohio.
Deceased had lived in Clinton many years, and was highly respected by all his neighbors. Mr. Wright was a spiritualist in his religious belief.
Funeral services were held at the home on West Main street Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. No religious services were observed, this being the wish of the deceased. The pallbearers were J. T. and B. C. SPRAGUE, L. N. RICHEY, Henry MUSSON, Amaziah POLLOCK and Martin POLLOCK. Interment in Woodlawn.
Kate & Nellie WRIGHT
July 7, 1864
Clinton Public
In this town, of whooping cough and inflammation of the lungs, June 16th, Kate D., aged 3 years and 7 months; and July 1st, Nellie B., aged 2 years and 5 days, daughters of Maj. John WRIGHT, Surgeon 107th Illinois Regt., and Elizabeth WRIGHT. The friends and acquaintances of the family deeply sympathize with them in the loss of their cherub babes, and the Major’s former companions in arms tender to him their heart-felt condolence in this severe bereavement, for well do they know the fond yearnings of his brave heart for the loved ones at home, and the shock the intelligence of their death will produce. “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord.”
Pierson B. WRIGHT
December 1910
Clinton Public
ANOTHER PIONEER AT REST.
Pierson B. WRIGHT died Christmas Day about 9 o'clock at his home in Texas township, aged nearly 84. He had been in failing health several weeks but for only a few days had his condition been serious. Deceased was born in Prebele County, Ohio, Jan. 24, 1827. His parents came to Illinois when he was 10 years old, and first lived where Kenney now is; from there they moved two miles west, and then to the farm about ten miles west of Maroa, on which is timber that has since, been known as "Wright Grove". This land they sold and moved 4 miles east of Maroa; then bought land in the southern part of Texas township. This land was bought by deceased and in 1882 he sold it and bought 47 ½ acres near the Texas school house where he had since lived. He was married to Martha E. DAVIS in 1877, to them seven children were born, two dying in infancy. The living are Rev. O. P. WRIGHT of Decatur, who was not able to attend the funeral on account of being sick; Mrs. Jas. McNEELY; George W., Frances and Louis of Texas township. Mr. Wright, was one of the best known men in Texas township, and he was the last of the early settlers there to pass away. He did not add to his land, but in his own way, enjoyed life as few do. He was usually in good humor, and his flashes of wit often put others in good humor. He was always ready to assist in caring for the sick, and ever seemed pleased when doing so.
Funeral services were held in the Texas church Tuesday, at 10 o'clock conducted by Rev. A FURMAN. The pallbearers were M. G. CADWALLADAY, J. H. WHITEHEAD, B. F. WILLIAMS, J. A. LANE, A. T. McKINNEY, Harvey PERSINGER. Burial in the Texas Cemetery.
William WRIGHT
May 17, 1895
Clinton Public
'Squire William Wright.
On Saturday, May 11th, at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. Mell EDWARDS, on Madison street, William WRIGHT passed quietly away at the age of 71 years, 2 months and 6 days, after a short illness resulting from muscular paralysis.
William Wright was born near Cincinnati, Ohio, March 4, 1824. On December 20, 1848, he was married to Miss Julia JENKINS. In the spring of 1856 he came with his family to Illinois and settled near Wapella, where he engaged in farming until 1865, when he moved to Wapella and entered the mercantile business with Col. T. J. MILHOLLAND, which occupied his attention for several years. In 1878, he was the Democratic candidate for sheriff and was defeated. For seventeen years he was justice of the peace at Wapella and was probably better known throughout the county as 'Squire Wright. In 1880 he moved with his family to Peoria, and later to Bloomington to be near his eldest daughter. He remained in Bloomington till last summer when he moved to Clinton to make his home with his daughter, Mrs. EDWARDS. He was the father of five children: James, Laura, and Emma, who passed away before him; and Mrs. J. M. ELDER, of Bloomington, and Mrs. Mell Edwards. His wife, two daughters, three brothers, Dr. John WRIGHT, San Jose, Cal.; Thomas WRIGHT, Pierre, S. D.; and James WRIGHT, Haskell, Kansas; and two sisters, Miss Sarah WRIGHT and Mrs. Harriet RITTENHOUSE, of Taylorville, are left to mourn their loss.
Funeral services were held at the home of his daughter Monday morning, conducted by Rev. W. J. TULL. The remains were taken on the morning train to Heyworth, where a service was conducted at the grave in Heyworth Cemetery by Rev. Mr. ANDERSON of that city. He was a man of modest nature, and will be remembered more by the example of his life than by his words. As he lived, so will he be remembered. In politics he was a Democrat. His life was one of devotion to his family and kindness to his fellow man, and he died in the faith of the Redeemer he had accepted many years prior to his death.
W. Garrison WRIGHT
August 8, 1890
Clinton Register
Death of an Octogenarian.
W. G. WRIGHT, who was hurt last week by his horse running away and throwing him out of his buggy, died at 4:30 o'clock p.m., August 8, at his home three miles east of Clinton, from the effects of his injuries. Funeral services were held at his late residence Sunday at 10 o'clock, conducted by Rev. W. A. Hunter. The interment was at Woodlawn cemetery.
William Garrison Wright was born in South Carolina, November 10, 1810, and was aged 79 years, 8 months and 28 days at the time of his death. When about six years old his parents moved to Tennessee, where they lived two years before moving to White county, this state. After a short residence there his parents moved to McLean county where he resided about fifteen years before moving to this county. From there he moved to this county where he had since made his home. December 4, 1834, he was married to Miss Leah HARP, sister of Thomas HARP, who lives near the Wright homestead. Eleven children, seven sons and four daughters, were born to them. One son and one daughter died several years ago. All the children except one son, who lives in Colorado, were present at the burial of their father. In 1834, while living in McLean county, he united with the Presbyterian church. He had lived an industrious life and was an upright man, and his unfortunate death was a sad ending of a life that had added almost a decade to the allotted three score and ten years.
Note: William died August 1st, not August 8th, and was buried August 3rd.
Mrs. W. Garrison WRIGHT
February 24, 1893
Clinton Public
Less than three years ago W. Garrison WRIGHT passed from earth to the world beyond, and one week ago today (February 17) his aged widow joined her husband. Mrs. WRIGHT was a member of the HARP family. She was born July 22, 1817, in Overton County, Tenn., and when she was but eleven years of age she came to this county with her parents. For sixty-four years she lived within two miles of this city. December 4, 1834, she was united in marriage to W. G. Wright, and eleven children were born to them, nine of whom survive their parents.
Sarah (DUNMIRE) WYLIE
1922
Paper Unknown
AGED WELDON RESIDENT DIES.
Mrs. Sarah M. Wylie Succumbs Wednesday
Night.
At the John Warner hospital Wednesday night at 9:20 o’clock occurred the death of Mrs. Sarah M. WYLIE, aged 84 years, after an illness lasting several weeks. Mrs. Wylie was one of the best known women in DeWitt county, coming to Weldon twenty-nine years ago.
Sarah DUNMIRE, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel DUNMIRE, was born March 25, 1838, at Middletown, Holmes County, Ohio. Her father was an old resident of Clinton. When she was 7 years old, the family, with a large party of Ohioans, emigrated in wagons overland to Illinois, settling first at Sweetwater, and going later to Bee Grove, near Middletown, Logan county. She was converted at the age of 12, and united with the Cumberland Presbyterian church, of which she was a member until she went to Farmer City and Weldon to reside, when she united with the Methodist Episcopal church.
January 15, 1857, she was united in marriage to William MONTGOMERY, and ten children were born to this union. Mrs. Ellen PARKHURST, a daughter, died seven years ago at Cherokee, Okla.; Thomas J. MONTGOMERY died October 9, 1872, at Middletown, Ill., and Mrs. Jennie PATCHEN died April 25, 1885, at Carlinville, Ill. The husband died April 21, 1881, at Middletown.
Surviving are the following children: Mrs. Mary TOM, of the Dalles, Oregon; James R. MONTGOMERY, of Middletown; Charles MONTGOMERY, of Moro, Oregon; H. E. and A. H. MONTGOMERY, of Clinton; J. H. MONTGOMERY of San Jose, Cal., and Samuel D. MONTGOMERY, of Portland, Oregon. There are eighteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Mrs. H. E. EISIMINGER, a sister, resides in Hutchinson, Kan.
When a girl, she knew Lincoln well, meeting him frequently at Petersburg and Springfield, and was acquainted with a number of other men and women prominent in early Illinois history.
Mrs. Montgomery married R. M. EWING at Petersburg, Ill., in 1885. Mr. Ewing died at Weldon in 1894. She was married in 1908 to James E. WYLIE of Mindon, Neb. Mr. Wylie died in 1917.
Mrs. Wylie had been a patient sufferer for the past year. The immediate cause of her death was paralysis. The funeral was held from the Weldon Methodist Episcopal church Friday morning at 10:45 o’clock, in charge of Rev. O. E. MARTIN of Owanaco, Ill., former pastor of the Weldon Methodist Episcopal church. Interment was made in the Weldon cemetery.
Submitted by Debbie Champion