This web page contains obituaries and death notices with Coffey County, Kansas ties. The source of the obituary/death note is indicated.
from the LeRoy Reporter, March 26, 1915
Mrs. Jennie Arnold Hodgson Dead.
Mrs. Jennie Arnold Hodgson died at her home in Spokane, Washington, Tuesday, March 23rd at 3 o'clock p.m. The cause of her death was disease of the heart.
She was better known in this vicinity as Jennie Sims, being the daughter of Mrs. J. W. Sims of this city and a half-sister of George Sims, assistant cashier of the First National Bank. She was forty-two years old. Her mother, Mrs. Sims, left here Sunday morning but arrived at Spokane after the death.
Mrs. Hodgson was married to C. R. Hodgson about twenty-two years ago at Burlingame, Kansas. Thirteen years ago they left for the Pacific coast and have lived at Spokane ever since. She leaves her husband and five children--all boys, besides the Sims family to mourn her loss.
from the LeRoy Reporter, April 9, 1915
Mrs. A. V. Schmitt Dead
Another good mother and wife passed from this earthly home when the end came to Mrs. A. V. Schmitt last Monday night at her home in Le Roy after a lingering illness.
Valentine Kauzeviz was born in Poland in 1845 and came to America with her parents at the age of ten years. They lived in New Jersey for several years and later came to Lawrence, Kansas, there she was married to Albert V. Schmitt and four children were born to them -- Amanda, who has preceeded her mother to the great beyond; Julia, Albert and August. From Lawrence they moved to LeRoy and have made this their home ever since. Here their home was blessed with four more children -- Brank, Charles, Fred and Gertrude.
She has been in failing health for several years but not bed fast until a few weeks ago and since then like a clock running down, each day found her weaker and weaker until the end cameat 11 o'clock Monday night. All the children but August and Charles were at her side when the end came. Her sister Mrs. J. H. Stitcher of Yates Center was also here at that hour. August Schmitt and wife and daughter arrived from Kansas City Wednesday morning.
She was a devoted mother and a consistent Christian. Her aim and prayer was that her children would so live that the circle would not be broken in the eternal home. She and her husband were baptized by their son Fred H. Schmitt in 1912. The husband died on the same day as her death, Monday, March 23, 1914, and a few weeks later on July 12th the oldest daughter Amanda passed away.
At the time of her death she was 70 years, 2 months and 21 days of age.
The funeral was held at the residence on Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock, the services were conducted by her son Fred, pastor of the Christian church at Larned, Kansas.
Burial was in the LeRoy cemetery.
from the LeRoy Reporter, May 7, 1915
Jesse Nutter Dead.
Jesse Nutter, son of Geo. G. Nutter of this city, died at Belleville, Illinois, Friday, April 23. The cause of death was gangrene which resulted from an injury to his ankle. He was thirty-six years of age and unmarried.
Geo. Nutter left for Belleville, Saturday 24th but did not arrive in time for the funeral.
On his return he stopped off at Benton City, Missouri, where he had not been for thirty-eight years.
from the LeRoy Reporter, May 7, 1915
Mrs. Riley Dead.
Frances Jane Fletcher was born near the town of Van Wert, Ohio, February 4, 1852. She died at her home in LeRoy, Kansas, April 29, 1915, having reached the age of 63 years 2 months and 25 days. She grew to womanhood where she was born, and was married to Daniel Webster Riley, February 27, 1877, about which time she embraced the Christian religion and has been consecrated to Christian duty and service, zealous in every good word and work ever since.
At the time of her death she was president of the local Woman's Christian Temperance Union, holding a life membership in the State, given to her as a reward for loving service. She was corresponding secretary of the local Woman's Foreigh Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal church, and senior vice president of the Woman's Relief Corps. The people who worked with Mrs. Riley in these organizations knew her best and appreciated her devotion, her sterling character, her ready perception of right and wrong, and her decided stand for the best things.
LeRoy feels its loss of a good citizen, and the women their loss of a personal friend, the M. E. church a loyal supporter, and her husband a devoted and faithful companion. She leaves a husband and two sisters, a brother, several neices and nephews, two of whom she raised, and a host of friends to mourn her loss. She has gone to her blessed reward.
[Note: There is a typo on her marriage date, but that is the way it is in the original newspaper article. kjh]
from the LeRoy Reporter, May 14, 1915
Mrs. Jacob Merrill Dead.
Another loving and loved mother was called from this world to Eternity last Friday, when Mrs. Jacob Merrill died at St. Joseph's Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, following an operation for abdominal trouble.
The body was brought home Saturday afternoon and the services were held at the home in the Valley neighborhood west of the river Sunday afternoon.
Mrs. Merrill's maiden name was Louise May Winebright and she was born near Kirkwood, Illinois, January 3rd, 1867. She was therefor 48 years, 4 months and 4 days old at the time of her death. She was married February 13, 1989 to Jacob Merrill, and to this union nine children were born -- George, Mary, Frank, Lucile, Grace, Edward, Louise, Celia and Howard -- all of whom survive except Lucile and Grace. Six brothers and sisters and her father also survive her.
The body was met at the train from Kansas City by a delegation of members of Mrs. Merrill's class in the Methodist Sunday school and the funeral was largely attended. Dr. Joseph H. Hill of Kansas City, formerly president of the State Normal school at Emporia, preached the sermon and paid a fine tribute to her useful life.
Mrs. Merrill was a woman of strong and kindly character and the entire community was schocked when the news of her death was reported here Friday evening.
The family desires us to thank the neighbors and friends for the beautiful flowers and the many kindnesses extended during their sorrow.
from the LeRoy Reporter, May 14, 1915
Mrs. Nancy Mason Dead.
Nancy Ann Pullen was born in Kentucky, October 27, 1843, and died April 24, 1915, aged 71 years, 5 months and 27 days. She was married to Henry Mason August 28, 1859, and to this union nine children were born. One son preceded her in infancy and in later years one daughter, Mrs. Sallie Barber passed to the great beyond. She joined the Baptist church in early girlhood and lived a conscientious Christian life until her death. She moved from Kentucky to near Ottawa, Kansas, in 1883 where she made her home until the death of her husband two years ago. The past year she lived with the daughter Mrs. Millie Hills near Crotty until the time of her death. Saturday morning she was taken suddenly ill with heart trouble and only lived a few minutes when God saw fit to call her to the better world. She leaves to mourn her loss two sisters, Mrs. Mary Young, Ottawa, Kansas, and Mrs. Mary Hutchinson of Kentucky; four sons, Bolen Mason, Gip, Oklahoma, Joe Mason, Princeton, Kansas and Martin Mason, Newcastle, Canada, and three daughters Mrs. Millie Hills, LeRoy, Kansas, Mrs. Mary Shea, Pomona, Kansas, and Mrs. Julia Kretzor, Ottawa, Kansas, and thirty grandchildren and four great grandchildren besides a host of friends to her loss.
The funeral services were held at Greenwood church near Ottawa, Monday morning and interment was in Greenwood cemetery.
The relatives desire to express their sincere thanks and appreciation for the kindness and sympathy shown them in their breavement.
from the LeRoy Reporter, May 28, 1915
G. E. Brown Obituary.
George E. Brown was the oldest son of Samuel and Caroline Brown.
He was born October 8, 1861 near Galesburg, Mercer county, Illinois, and died May 20, 1915, aged 53 years, 8 months and 12 days.
He resided in Marcer county, Illinois, with his parents on a farm until 1882 when he moved with them to Vernon, Woodson county, Kansas. He was united in marriage to Miss Anna I. Howard January 22, 1885.
Up until the last ten years of his life Mr. Brown was engaged in farming in Woodson county, near Vernon and Neosho Falls and also at Aimes, with stock buying.
His efforts were crowned with reasonable success and about ten years ago he bought from Mr. Shannon the tract of ground one-half mile west of Vernon and built the house where he resided until his death.
He leaves to mourn his loss his wife of Vernon, Kansas, his mother and two brothers, Doc and Grant Brown all of Des Moines, Iowa, and one sister Mrs. Mary Leidy, of Galesburg, Illinois.
from the LeRoy Reporter, July 2, 1915
Mrs. Kate Hennig Dead.
Mrs. Kate Hennig died at the home of her brother, J. G. Schlatter in this city last Saturday evening, June 26, 1915, after an illness which has extended more or less through the winter. For severaldays her death has been expected almost every hour.
Mrs. Hennig's maiden name was Katherine Ann Schlatter. She was born in Bucyrus, Ohio, September 16th, 1839, and was therefor 75 years, 9 months and ten days of age at the time of her death. In 1856 she moved with her parents to West Union, Iowa and in 1861 she was married to John Smith who died in 1885. In 1887 she married August A. Hennig who died in 1891 since which time she has resided in LeRoy. Mrs. Hennig was raised a member of the German Lutheran church and about twenty years ago united with the Christian Science church and remained a faithful member until her death.
Mrs. Hennig lived a close neighbor to the REPORTER family for many years, and we in common with other neighbors who probably knew her better than others in LeRoy, feel a personal loss in her death. She was a fine, home-loving lady and would go to any length to aid a deserving person in trouble. The funeral services were held from the J. G. Schlatter residence Monday afternoon at 1 o'clock and burial was in the LeRoy cemetery. The funeral service was in charge of Rev. Hunter of Paola, who filled the pulpit of the Methodist church Sunday in the absence of Rev. Chas. F. Johnson. The Rebkah lodge, of which she was a member, attended in a body.
J. B. Story Dead.
J. B. Story died at the home of his son-in-law Dr. G. G. Kesner at Halls Summit Saturday afternoon, June 26th at about four o'clock. The cause of his death was apoplexy. He was attacked Thursday by this trouble and was unconscious until his death.
Mr. Story was for many years a resident of LeRoy and had a various times held positions of honor in the city and township governments. He was elected mayor of the city several terms and also served as township trustee.
He was born at Warsaw, Kentucky, April 19th, 1840 and was therefor 75 years, 2 months and 7 days old at the time of his death. He served in the Confederate army during the Civil war and came to Kansas in 1864. Here he married Miss Sarah Scott in March 1865. They had no children but adopted a neice who is now Mrs. G. G. Kesner of Halls Summit. In 1910 they in company with Dr. Kesner and wife emigrated to New Mexico where they lived two years and then returned to Coffey county locating at Halls Summit.
He was a member of the A. O. U. W. and carried $1000 insurance in that order. For many years he was an active member of the local Odd Fellows Lodge. He was a true friend and loving husband and father and leaves many friends in LeRoy to mourn his loss.
from the LeRoy Reporter, July 16, 1915
Wm. Fry, Former
LeRoy Man, Dies
Wm. Fry, a former resident of Spring Creek township, who at one time owned the farm now owned by T. J. Rice, died at his home in Iowa county, Iowa, Tuesday, Jult 6th. He was born in Cayuga county, Ohio, May 4th, 1856, making his age at death 59 years, 2 months and two days.
March 9, 1882 he was married to Miss Etta Wilson and to them were born twelve children, seven boys and five girls all of whom survive him except Carl who died June 6, 1896 and an infant son who died in 1899. He went from Ohio to Iowa county, Iowa county in 1856 with his parents and lived there until 1898 when he and his family came to this county and lived on the farm in Spring Creek township for seven years when they again moved to Iowa. He was a member of the Fairview Wesleyan Methodist church.
The funeral services were held on July 8th at Fairview Wesleyan church near Marengo, Iowa. The body was interred in Marengo cemetery. He has many friends in this vicinity who mourn his death and who extend their sincere sympathy to the bereaved family.
from the LeRoy Reporter, July 30, 1915
Mrs. J. E. Beach's Mother Dead.
Mrs. A. F. Quinn died at her home near Kincaid, Thursday, July 22nd of heart failure. Her maiden name was Isbell and she was born in Oswego county, N. Y., February 28, 1843. She married Samuel Baker, March 31, 1864 and to them one child was born, Mrs. J. E. Beach of Woodson county. Her husband died april 14, 1865 and in October 1867 she was married to John Quinn and to this union seven children were born. They are W. F. Quinn of Anderson county, Addie B. Watson, who died in 1908, Nina S. Jones, Mary E. Laws, Mrs. O. H. Bailey, Chas. E. Quinn and Mrs. J. B. Stutesman--all of Coffey county. Two brothers and sisters, besides the surviving children are left to mourn her loss besides her many friends.
Mrs. Quinn was a faithful and loving mother and friend as well as a devout Christian woman.
from LeRoy Reporter, August 13, 1915
Mrs. J. M. Quiggle Dead.
Elizabeth, wife of J. M. Quiggle, of north Spring Creek township died at her home Tuesday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock after a period of illness lasting for the past six months, during which time she suffered severely.
Mrs. Quiggle's maiden name was Chambers and she was born in Indiana on September 20, 1843 being 71 years, 10 months and 20 days old at the time of her death. She became the wife of John M. Quiggle at Burlington on Christmas day 1867. Four children were born to them, three of which died in infancy. The only surviving child is Mrs. May Carter, wife of S. J. Carter, with whom Mr. and Mrs. Quiggle have made their home for the past four years.
The funeral services will be held at the home this (Thursday) morning at 10 o'clock in charge of Rev. John Summers, a Methodist minister who resides in their neighborhood. Interrment will be in the LeRoy cemetery.
Mrs. Quiggle was a quiet, home loving woman with many friends. She will be greatly missed, not only by the bereaved husband and daughter, but by a host of acquaintances who loved her.
J. M. Quiggle and Mr. and Mrs. S. J. Carter wish to thank their neighbors and friends for their many kindly acts of aid and consolation during their bereavement caused by the death of their beloved wife and mother.
from the LeRoy Reporter, August 1915
Eli J. Hammond Dead.
Eli J. Hammond, formerly a respected citizen of this vicinity and for the past ten years a resident of near Gridley, died at his home in Liberty township, Tuesday, August 17, 1915. His death was due to a third stroke of paralysis and his last sickness confined him to his bed about three weeks.
Mr. Hammond formerly lived on the Calvin Rich farm on Long Creek northwest of LeRoy. He was a brother of Mrs. Clara Rich of this city and Justin Hammond who lives about six miles north of LeRoy, who besides his wife Sarah and three children, Ray, Harley and Ruth are left to mourn his loss. The funeral services were held at the home in Liberty township Wednesday morning and burial was in Pleasant Hill cemetery north of this place that afternoon. The services were in charge of Elder Palmer, pastor of the Christian church of Gridley.
Mr. Hammond was a jovial, honest citizen, greatly loved by his neighbors and friends and the family has the sincere sympathy of all.
from the LeRoy Reporter, September 3, 1915
Harmon W. Hall, formerly of this neighborhood and for a number of years a resident of Rapatee, Illinois, died at the home of his daughter at that place August 11th. He was over eighty years of age. He was the eldest of fifteen children. His twin brother, Hiram Hall, also a former resident of LeRoy died six years abo. Elmer Hall of Spring Creek township is a son of the deceased by his first marriage. He second wife died here April 27, 1893. Mr. Hall was a member of Orloff Norton Post, G. A. R. of this city. His old LeRoy friends extend sincere sympathies to the bereaved family.
from the LeRoy Reporter, September 3, 1915
J. D. Davis Dead.
Another early settler of this vicinity passed to his reward Wednesday, August 25th, when Jeremiah Davis of the Crandall neighborhood breathed his last, aged 73 years, 1 month and 22 days. Mr. Davis, who was a son of Joseph A. and Eyrena Davis, was born July 3rd, 1842 in Warren county, Indiana. He came to Kansas with his parents in 1857 but they returned to Iowa in the summer of 1860. He enlisted for the Civil War in December 1861 and served three years and seven months in Co. F, 7th Iowa Infantry. He was honorably discharged as a sergeant, July 15, 1865 at Louisburg, Kentucky.
He married Mary E. Bell, August 31, 1865. To this union twelve children were born, five of whom died in infancy and one daughter, Millie died July 29, 1893. The surviving children are: Mrs. Anna J. Mills of Gridley, Kansas, Delbert D. Davis and Freeman Davis of Virginia City, Nevada, Mrs. Emma C. Webb of Sheridan, Iowa, Chester A. Davis of Roseville, Illinois and Mrs. Bessie Mills of Gridley. Death took this helpmeet from him February 22nd, 1887.
On May 29th, 1905 he married Mrs. Alice James who survives him and who with the bereaved children have the sympathy of their many friends.
Mr. Davis was a life-long consistent follower of the meek and lowly Jesus, having joined the United Brethren church at the age of eleven years. The funeral services were in charge of Rev. Rogers of that church last Griday morning at ten o'clock and the body was interred in the Crandall cemetery.
from the LeRoy Reporter, September 3, 1915
Mrs. Kisial Goodwin of Douglas, Kansas, died here August 23 at the home of her son John Goodwin, whom she was visiting. The funeral was held at the home Tuesday conducted by Mrs. C. L. Kelsey. Interment at Neosho Falls.
from the Waverly Gazette, September 10, 1915
DIED
Daniel Matthews died in Waverly at the home of his daughter, Mrs. L. E. Fogg Friday Sept. 3, 1915, after an illness of 3 weeks. The body was shipped to Yates Center, where the funeral service was held Sunday, and interment made. He was 84 years, 5 months, 19 days of age.
He came here on Aug. 18th for a visit with his daughters, and fell and broke his hip. He had been in poor health for a long time, and age and the fall was too much for him, and death resulted.
Mr. Matthews was born at Greensburg, North Carolina, March 14, 1831. He was married to Miss Jane Dryden at Morning Sun, Iowa, July 15th, 1857. For nearly 58 years they lived and worked happily together. To their union twelve children were born and ten of them survive him. Mrs. Matthews passed on about 18 months ago. About 1870 he joined the United Presbyterian church at Olathe, Kas., and has lived a conscientious Christian life for 45 years. With his family he moved to the vicinity of Waverly and lived here until 1900, when he moved to Yates Center. He lived on a farm two miles north of Waverly from 1882 to 1891 when he moved to Waverly. He has been in poor condition physically for the past eight or more years.
Funeral services were conducted at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Fogg, Saturday morning, at 10 o'clock, by Rev. John H. Lamb prior to shipment of the body to Yates Center. A large number of his old associates and life-long friends gathered at the casket side to pay their respects to the departed. Mr. Matthews was a kindly hearted man who always tried to do the right thing by his fellows under all circumstances. Want never called to him in vain if he could relieve the needy one. He filched no fortune of the world, but he was wealthy in the kind of riches that are always at par in the Land of Bliss, However little it passes current in the governments of man. His riches were laid up where moths do no corrupt nor thieves break through and steal.
from the LeRoy Reporter, September 24, 1915
J. M. Rich Dead.
John Milton Rich died at his home in this city Sunday, September 19th, after a lingering illness of over a year. He was fifty-nine years old.
Mr. Rich was born in Durham, Marion county, Iowa, in 1856 and came to Kansas with his parents the following year. He was married to Almeda Ward November 28th, 1879. They had no children. Mrs. Rich died several years ago. His sister, Mrs. Taylor Cottingham is the only near surviving relative. His only brother, Calvin Rich, died in 1900.
Mr. Rich was a good member of society, having always been straight-forward and honest and the community mourns his loss with his bereaved sister. He was a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and carried $1000 insurance in that order.
from the LeRoy Reporter, September 24, 1915
Mrs. W. J. Green Dead.
Mrs. William J. Green of Kansas City, formerly Miss Maude Draper of LeRoy died in the Kansas City general hospital Thursday, September 23rd of pneumonia. She had been in poor health for a year and her system was in no condition to withstand the attack of pneumonia. She was twenty-six years old.
She was a member of the Catholic church, having become a member in 1906. In 1907 she became the wife of William J. Green of New York and they lived there until about two years ago when they took up their home in Kansas City. Her father died December 2, 1890 and her sister, Mrs. Robt Fowler also preceded her May 12, 1911. The surviving relatives are: the husband William J. Green of Kansas City; her mother, Mrs. D. M. Draper of LeRoy; A. Draper of Kansas City; Mrs. A. Neighbarger of Neosho Falls; Mrs. S. P. Byrd of Lawrence; B. F. Draper of Neosho Falls; Joe Draper of Gridley and J. O. Draper and Ernest H. Draper of LeRoy.
The funeral services were held at the Methodist church Sunday afternoon in charge of Rev. C. T. Cotton. Burial was in the LeRoy cemetery.
We desire to extend our heart-felt thanks to the neighbors and friends who so kindly assisted us in our bereavement.
Mrs. D. M. Draper and Family.
from the LeRoy Reporter, October 8, 1915
Obituary of R. D. Jennings
a Former LeRoy Citizen
R. D. Jennings was born December 25th, 1869 in Queenstown, Pennsylvania. Had he lived until next Christmas day he would have been 46 years of age. He died at Vossburg, Mississippi, Wednesday night, September 29th, 1915.
Being raised in the oil district of the East he early entered the occupation of a driller and worked in both the Pennsylvania and Ohio fields. In the spring of 1904 he came to Kansas and located in LeRoy where he engaged in contracting the drilling of oil and gas wells. After the oil business became slack in this vicinity he went to California where he secured a position as superintendent of production for the Mascot Oil Co. near Taft. They returned to Kansas in the spring of 1913 and made their home in LeRoy until a few days before his death. He was afflicted with heart trouble complicated with Bright's disease and becoming discouraged with the progress of his case here went to Vossburg, Mississippi to try out some mineral waters there. The telegram announcing his death came to LeRoy last Thursday morning.
According to a letter from Mrs. Jennings from Queenstown, Pennsylvania, whither the body was taken for interment, his death was very sudden. His condition was very bad on the Sunday and Monday before his death but on Tuesday he seemed much better and on Wednesday also. That evening he ate a little supper and not long afterward while Mrs. Jennings and their son Ralph were in the room and he was sitting up he suddenly fell over and was gone.
Mrs. Jennings states that they have no definite plans at present. Her LeRoy friends expected that she and the children would come back to LeRoy soon as her business interests are here but she states that they will probably remain in the east with her own people until spring.
Mr. Jennings was a member of the Masonic lodge of Kittanning, Pennsylvania and belonged to the Scottish Rite bodies of Masonry in Kansas City, Kansas. He was also a Noble of the Mystic Shrine, belonging to Abdullah Temple at Leavenworth, Kansas. He carried $2000 in the Yoeman lodge belonging here in LeRoy.
Mrs. Jennings states in her letter that words cannot express her appreciation of the kindness of her friends here but intimates that it will be impossible at this time to thank each one individually.
from the LeRoy Reporter, November 12, 1915
Dr. John Morgan Dead.
Dr. John Morgan, formerly of this city, and of more recent years practicing in Neosho Falls, died on a Northern Pacific train as it was leaving Hope, Idaho, about 75 miles from Spokane, Washington, last Thursday morning, November 8th. He was on his way to Spokane to visit his daughter, Mrs. J. O. Hamilton.
The Odd Fellows Lodge at Neosho Falls was notified at once. The body is to be brought to Neosho Falls. Mrs. Morgan left Neosho Falls with her husband, but stopped at Minneapolis.
from the LeRoy Reporter, November 26, 1915
T. J. Cottingham Dead.
Thos. J. Cottingham died at his home in Orosi, California, November 10th, 1915. The funeral was held the following day and the body was interred at Orosi, after services at the Methodist Episcopal church.
Mr. Cottingham formerly lived in this neighborhood and was a brother of W. P. Cottingham, Taylor Cottingham and their brothers and sisters and otherwise related to many of our present citizens. He left LeRoy a number of years ago and lived near Toronto for some time, going thence to California and settling at Orosi.
He has many old friends here who will much regret his death so far away from them.
from the LeRoy Reporter, December 3, 1915
Mrs. Sprout Dead.
Mrs. Chas. Sprout died at her home in Spring Creek township Sunday afternoon as a result of the burns received two weeks before when she mistook some gasoline for water and put it in a tea kettle on the stove.
Everything was done that could be to relieve her sufferings, her step-mother gave her loving constant care, never leaving her until a nurse came a few days before the end.
Pearl Noell was born at Warsaw, Kentucky, June 9, 1876. She came to Kansas with her father at the age of fourteen. She united with the Christian church when about twenty and in 1898 was married to C. D. Sprout, who together with six sons, (the youngest a baby of six months,) survive to mourn the death of a wife and mother.
Mrs. Sprout was a kind, generous neighbor, but spent most of her time in the home where she worked beyond her strength, being very ambitious that her children should get a good education.
The sincerest sympathy is extended to the family.
She was thirty-nine years old. The funeral services were held at Neosho Monday and interment was in the cemetery at that place.
Most of her relatives and Mr. Sprout's were present at the funeral.
from the Burlington Republican, August 10, 1916
Mrs. Ritchey Dies--Funeral Friday
Word was received this morning of the death of Mrs. Fred Ritchey at St. Mary's hospital at Kansas City where she was taken last Saturday for an operation which was performed the first of the week. The body will be brought to Burlington tonight and taken to the home of her father, L. S. Drake. The funeral probably will be held from the Drake home at 1 o'clock tomorrow afternoon. Mrs. Ritchey had been in poor health for some time and the operation was a last resort.
from the Burlington Republican, August 10, 1916
Mrs. Anthony Wilson Dead
Mrs. Anthony Wilson died at her home in Ottumwa neighborhood Tuesday night after an illness of some time. She was about 75 years old. She was very highly esteemed by a large circle of friends.
from the Burlington Republican, August 10, 1916
Another Pioneer Is Laid To Rest
Mahlon Perry Manson was born in Piqua, Miami county, Ohio, July 2, 1844. He lived in the place of his birth until he came to Kansas in 1857. He was married to Rachel Anna Christman March 2, 1869 and to this untion was born six children: namely--Adelie, Arthur, Mahlon Jr., Lee and George. One son died in infancy. These children with his wife were at home with him to the last. Mr. Manson was the youngest of eight children, five boys and three girls, but of these only one brother, James Manson of Lebo, survive him. Mr. Manson was a good citizen, a faithful husband and a kind father.
The funeral took place at the home six miles south of Burlington Wednesday at 2 p.m. and Rev. C. L. Hovgard of the M. E. church preached the sermon after which the remains were laid to rest in Mt. Hope cemetery. There was a large attendance at the services at the house and at the cemetery.
from the Waverly Gazette, September 1, 1916
OBITUARY.
William Jasper Fanning was born in Carroll county, Arkansas, March 3, 1842, and died at his home in Waverly, Kas., on August 28, 1916.
He was the second in a family of eight children. At the age of twelve years he moved with his parents to Morgan county, Illinois, where he grew to manhood.
March 21, 1865, he was married to Sarah Jane Story. To this union were born nine children, five boys and four girls. Of this number one girl died in infancy, and a son, George, dying nine years ago.
In 1865 he, with his family, moved from Illinois to Kansas, locating six miles northwest of Waverly, and continued to live in and around Waverly ever since.
About thirteen years ago he was converted and joined the Methodist church, of which he was a faithful member until his death.
About two years ago he was taken sick and while his life was despaired of, he recovered sufficiently to be up and around, but was not able to do any work.
In May, 1916, he was taken much worse and suffered intensely until the end.
He was a kind husband and father and a good neighbor, loved by all who knew him.
He leaves to mourn his loss a wife and four sons, Will, Lon, Bird and Starley, and three daughters, Mrs. McNulty, Mrs. Patton, and Miss Susie, also one brother, three sisters, and a host of other relatives and friends.
He was a member of the Masonic lodge, formed in Illinois 51 years ago. Also a member of the Fraternal Aid of Waverly, Kansas.
from the Lebo Star, October 27, 1916
Edgar Porter Passed Away
The community was shocked early Thursday morning to learn that Raymond Edgar Porter the fifteen year old son of Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Porter had passed from this life to the great beyond. This is a very sad case because of its suddeness and because of the age and previous good health of Edgar. Last Friday morning was the first time he complained of feeling sick, but that dreaded disease, spinal menengitis, had its hold and the angel of death was the only one who could break it. The burial was private and was held Thursday afternoon at Lincoln cemetery.
Mr. and Mrs. Porter and the brother and two sisters have the heartfelt sympathy of a community who knew Edgar to be a bright and promising manly little man. This sympathy is also extended to the grand-father, W. R. Porter, who is now in Missouri, and was such a close friend to Edgar, when he lived neighbors to them--they were pals, grandpa and grandson, always together, always congenial. Death at the best is sad but when it comes to youth being called away suddenly, the sadness is much greater and a community's heart goes out in unexpressable symapthy.
"God's Will Not Ours Be Done".
Died In An Auto
Mrs. Robert Williams of Burlington, 74 years old, died in a Ford car on the road just this side of the Chhalland crossing west of town, Monday afternoon. She had been to Emporia in company with Rev. and Mrs. Hovegard and Mrs. Hazelbrig. She ate a hurried dinner just before starting home and when a few miles out of Emporia she complained of a pain in her side. The friends in the car suggested going back to Emporia to consult a doctor, but Mrs. Williams said no, to go on and they would soon be home. She passed away two miles west of Lebo and was brot here to the Blue undertaking rooms and the husband and coroner notified who came here at once. Acute indigestion was the cause of death.
The remains were prepared and taken to Burlington Tuesday.
from the Lebo Star, November 3, 1916
Henry Asbury Dies Suddenly
Will Asbury received a telegram Wednesday morning from Detroit, Mich., announcing the sudden death of his brother, Henry, who recently went to that city. Will got no particulars and did not know Henry was in Detroit, as when he left here about a week ago he said he was going to Hutchinson to look for work. It was in Detroit that Henry met with the auto accident about a year ago that caused him to spend many weeks in the hospital, altho he was doing fairly well when he left here last week.
The body will be shipped to King City, Mo., the old Asbury home, for burial, which are all the particulars we have at this time.
Will Asbury and family left in their car for King City Thursday to attend the funeral.
Mrs. and Mrs. Wm Lofty were called to Pittsburg on Sunday by a message announcing the death of their brother in law, Mr. Jas. Dunn.
from the Lebo Star, November 10, 1916
C. A. Ball Dead
After a lingering illness C. A. Ball passed away at the home of his daughter, Miss Mary Ball in this city last Saturday afternoon about four o'clock. Mr. Ball was in his 84th year and his strength and vitality was all that kept him alive the last several days. He made a hard fight for life but the grim reaper conquered and he was called home.
Mr. Ball has lived in this community for many years and was one of the oldest men here. The past several years he has put in much time at his favorite passtime, fishing, and at noe time was he happier than when angling for the finny tribe and he enjoyed greatly to tell of his success along the river.
The funeral was held from the house Monday, Rev. Funston officiating, with burial in Lincoln cemetery.
Cyrus Austin Ball was born July 14, 1833 near Newark, N. J., moved with his parents to Deleware, Ohio when he was four years old where he lived until after he was married Feb. 14, 1858 to Annette A. Adams. They moved to Stark county, Indiana where they lived for nine years. In 1874 they moved to Emporia, Kans., where they lived for three years, then moving to a farm just west of Lebo. In 1887 they moved to Lebo where the wife and mother died Nov. 16, 1907. The deceased was the father of 10 children, six boys and four girls, six of whom survive him; Mary, Brady and Winfield of Lebo, William of Admire, Mrs. Kate Peterson of Denver, Colo., Mrs. Annice DeCamp of San Francisco, Calif., neither of these two daughters could be present during their father's last sickness nor to attend the funeral. He also leaves twelve grandchildren, and three sisters and one brother in California. When a young man the deceased joined the Christian church but never affiliated with any church after he left Ohio.
The Star joins the community in extending sympathy to the bereft.
from the Lebo Star, November 24, 1916
Undertaker Glenn Blue, was called to Neosho Rapids last Saturday to take charge of the body of Ira C. VanGundy who died at his home there that day. Mr. VanGundy was 40 years old. The funeral was held Tuesday.
from the Lebo Star, January 5, 1917
Henry E. Bedell Dead
Mrs. C. F. Lusk received wornd New Years afternoon that her father, Henry E. Bedell, had died at the National Military Home at Leavenworth where he had been making his home. Dr. and Mrs. Lusk left Tuesday morning to take charge of the remains and they were brot here Wednesday night accompanied by Mrs. Lusk and her sister, of Kansas City, Dr. Lusk having been called to Williamsburg Tuesday afternoon by the death of his brother's wife there.
Mr. Bedell was past 81 years of age at the time of his death. He was well known to many Lebo people as he was visited at the Lusk home many times during the past several years. The Star joins the community in extending sympathy.
The funeral will be held this afterhoon with interment in Lincoln cemetery.
from the Lebo Star, January 12, 1917
Obituary--Henry Bedell
Henry E. Bedell was born June the 9th, 1837 at Bernards Bay, Oswego county, N. Y. Was united in marriage to Ann Agnes Wiley, July the 13th, 1857. Of that union, six children, four daughters and two sons survive.
His wife preceded him to the grave Jan. 16, 1903.
Mr. Bedell was a veteran of the civil war, serving with the 81st Regiment, Co. K, N.Y. Volenteers.
He and his wife came to Illinois in 1865.
He died at the National Millitary Home in Leavenworth Kan. Jan. 1, 1917. He and his wife were members of the M. E. church.
from the Lebo Star, January 19, 1917
J. M. Stebbins Passed Away
Last Sunday Jasper M. Stebbins, who has been an invalid for the past two years, passed away at his home in this city at the age of 78 years. He was born in Ottawa county N. Y. and his parents moved to Ohio when he was yet young. They came to Kansas in 1857 and settled in McPherson county. In 1861 the subject of this sketch went back to Ohio and enlisted in the 18th Ohio infantry and served three years in the Civil War. In 1864 he was married to Mary Payne and to this union was born nine children, six of whom are still living and five of them were present for the funeral. He lived in Iowa a few years after the war and then came to Kansas and has been a resident of this city for a number of years. His wife died in 1905 and he was married a second time to Mrs. Goodrich in 1908, who was with him faithfully thru his lingering illness.
The funeral was held from the M. E. church Tuesday afternoon, being preached by Rev. Funston and interment was made in Lincoln cemetery.
The relatives have the sympathy of the community in their hour of sorrow.
from the Lebo Star, January 26, 1917
Rowland D. Williams Shot
Double Murder in Oklahoma City
Remains Brot to Lebo for Funeral
--Burial at Arvonia
Rowland D. Williams, brother of Mrs. J. E. Whildin, of this city, was shot and instantly killed in Oklahoma City Thursday of last week about noon. This sad intelligence reached Lebo by wire to Mrs. Whildin that afternoon. Mrs. Whildin was in Emporia at the time and the message was phoned to her. She left that afternoon on the Katy for Oklahoma City and was joined at Parsons by her neice, daughter of Rowland, and her husband. The remains were brot to Lebo, arriving last Saturday morning, being met at the station by a company of sorrowing friends and taken to Mrs. Whildin's home.
The dead woman was a sister of Mrs. Couch who divorced her husband last fall because of his conduct in trying to force his attentions on her sister, who made her home with the Couch family. Couch had written threatening letters to his wife, his ten year old daughter, Miss Dunn and to Rowland Williams, and at the time of this double crime he was under indictment for sending obscene and threatening letters thru the mails.
"Rollie" Williams, as his many Lebo and Arvonia friends knew him visited here once each year with his siter and other relatives and was known as a big hearted, kind, jovial, genial and friendly gentleman. Where Rollie was, there was a happy good time; he was always cheerful and looked on the bright side of all occasions. This characteristic was doubtless the cause of him not being more on his guard and taking the threatening letter with more seriousness than he did. Rolla had a large circle of friends here who were always glad of an opportunity to hear him sing as he often did at the M. E. church when visiting here. He gave a recital here a few years ago that was enjoyed very much by many of his friends.
The following are some extracts of the tragedy taken from the Daily Oklahoman, of Oklahoma City:
"Jealousy, the green-eyed monster--the most hideous of all human passions--furnished the motive for the murder of Nellie Dunn, the young school teacher at the Wheeler school and the cold blooded assassination of Rosland D. Williams some forty minutes later in his West Second street studio.
Jealouly of a clean friendship between the girl and her vocal teacher, Rowland D. Williams, who was known to hundreds of the best men and women of this city, began it ugly course some three years ago. Unsuccessful in intimidating his sister-in-law, Couch transferred his Machievellianism for a time to Rowland Williams. Obscene letters were addressed to the music master, and scurrilous attacks were made upon his character to a minister of the city and number of Mr. Williams friends.
The letter, who was generally known as a gallant gentleman as well as a painstaking musician and teacher, refused to regard as serious what he deemed an insane attack. On several occasions he escorted Miss Dunn always accompanied by her little niece, Mary Couch, the daughter of the man who took her aunt's life, went to Mr. Williams' studio to take her lessons.
Mr. Williams was leader of the choir at the First Baptist church, a position he had held two months. He was also director of the Ladies' Music club, of the choir at the Temple B'Nai Israel. He had been director of the Pilgrim Congregational church choir, holding that position for two years. He was a composer of vocal music."
The following is from an Oklahoma City paper of last Saturday under the heading, "Great Organ Silenced In Tribute to Murdered Man."
The First Baptist church's great organ will be silent Sunday morning while choir members decorate the chair last Sunday occupied by Rowland D. Williams, murdered choir director.
A beautiful memorial is planned. The chair will be decorated with white carnations, and after this ceremonial, choir members will occupy seats reserved in the auditorium. The choir loft will be draped in mourning.
"Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow," from James 4-14, will be the scriptural text and Pastor H. H. Hullen's sermon subject will be "The Uncertainty of Life, or Some Lessons from the Awful Tragedy."
From the manuscript of Dr. Hulten's sermon the following lesson is drawn, as it will be delivered, in the introduction of the address Sunday morning:
"The future is a blessed uncertainty. I say blessed because of what it contributes to the present.
"Did you ever stop to consider what would be the result if we all knew the future as well as we know the present?
"The vicious man is often restrained in his vice because of his dread of what the future may bring. The struggling man is often encouraged to hold out a little longer and thus win victory because of hope which lies in the future.
"If those of us who have a morbid tendency toward fretting and worry could see all the sorrows that are in store for us we should simply sit down and stifle our souls with a sigh.
"Whereas, if those of us who are more fortunately constituted could see all of the joys that are in store--that would paralize present effort, and we should become intoxicated with the joys that are in store--that would paralize present effort, and we should become intoxicated with the joys that are yet to be.
"There can be no doubt but that if we could read the future, character would be robbed of that sturdy strength which comes from faith, hope and trust.
"If we know the future we should walk by sight, and not by faith. And if faith were eliminated from human life and conduct, then life would be robbed of its highest charm, if not, indeed, its greatest strength.
Gog in no way has shown his love for us more than in his wise apportionment of all our joys and sorrows throut the days, weeks, months and years of life."
Rowland D. Williams, son of David S. and Ellen Williams was born Feb. 2 1859 in Floyd, N. Y. In 1871 he moved to Kansas settling in Arvonia where he spent his young manhood. Early in life he endicated his interest in music, singing in the Arvonia Sunday School, where he united with the church.
From Arvonia he went to Osage City, where he led the singing in the Presbyterian church.
He received his first vocal instruction in Kansas City under the direction of Prof. Leib. He also studied in New York City at a later date.
His years of teaching and directing were spent in the South, Little Rock, Chattanooga, Memphis, Fort Worth and Oklahoma City.
As a choir director he was a recognized leader all thro the south land; as a chorus director he was undoubtly at his best; as a vocal teacher he was a master. One of his pupils was Oscar Seigle. As a soloist Mr. Williams had wonderful power, moving audiences to tears of laughter as he chose. One summer he was soloist at Chautauqua Assembly in Chautauqua New York. He led the singing of the National Epworth League Convention at Chattanooga. In 1915 he led the singing at North Dakota Sunday School Convention.
Prof. E. O. Excell, of Chicago, said Prof. Williams is one of the finest men I ever knew and a great director.
The following extract if from a letter received from Mr. Williams, by a member of the family on the day he was taken away, will give an insight into the sensitive temper of the man.
from the Lebo Star, March 2, 1917
OBITUARY
Evan Morgan Evans was born Feb. 24, 1863 at Carmarthenshire, Wales. He came to Kansas with his parents in 1870 and located on a farm west of Arvonia which was his home until his death, Feb. 21, 1917. He married Hattie Lewis Dec. 29, 1896 and four children were born to this union, their first born dying in infancy. The surviving children are: Thomas Howard, Catherine Gertrude and Lewis David. He leaves besides his wife and children, one brother Thomas R., of Lebo, and four sisters, Mrs. William Evans and Mrs. Jim Roberts, of Lime Springs, Iowa., Mrs. G. F. Given, of Topeka and Mrs. Marinus Peterson, of Lebo.
The funeral was held from the home last Saturday afternoon and was conducted by Rev. Hughes, of Richmond assisted by Rev. G. J. Williams, of Arvonia and Rev. J. Calvin Jones, of Emporia. The outpouring of friends at the funeral was a demonstration of the high esteem in which the deceased was held. Burial was in Arvonia cemetery.
from the Lebo Star, March 23, 1917
OBITUARY
Lora L. Phillips was born December 21, 1868 in Pope county, Ill., and lived in that state unitl she was sixteen years old, when the family moved to Coffey county Kansas, and after a short time to Greenwood county. She was converted and joined the M. E. church in Illinois and was a faithful Christian to the end, which came on March 14, 1917, at her home in this city. She was united in marriage to James E. Watson in 1887, and they moved to Lebo in 1889. To this union was born eleven children, four having died in infancy. Those who remain to mourn her loss are the husband and seven children, Roy E., Walter B., George R., Grace, Curtis F., Myrtle M., and Glenn, her mother Mrs. E. R. Phillips, a sister, Mrs. Effie Moxley and three brothers, Edward, Jessie and Walter Phillips. The funeral was held last Thursday with interment in Lincoln cemetery. The Star joins the community in extending sympathy.
S. Beer Dead.
At the home of his son, Pete, five miles west of Lebo, Samuel Beer passed from this life Sunday morning March 18, 1917 after a short illness.
Samuel Beer was born in Fulton county, Ill., on October 30, 1844. He served in the 132 Regiment U. S. Vol. Infantry in the Civil War. After that great struggle he moved to Daviess county, Mo., where he married Martha Ethington on Nov. 24, 1867. To this union was born ten children, six of whom are still living--four sons and two daughters. The wife and mother of his children died just a few months ago. They moved to Wabaunsee county Kansas in 1882, to Lyon county in 1892 and to Coffey county in 1908.
Mr. Beer was a member of the Eskridge Masonic Lodge in good standing at the time of his death and at the request of that Lodge and the family Lebo Lodge took charge of the funeral which was held Tuesday at the Jt. 95 school house, west of town, Rev. Funston officiating, and interment was made in Lincoln cemetery, the Masonic grave service being used.
The Star joins in extending sympathy to the bereft.
from the Burlington Republican, September 4, 1917
Myron A. Reed Jr. Dead
M. A. Reede Jr., the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. M. A. Reed, who live two and one half miles southeast of Burlington, died Saturday morning September 1, 1917, at one o'clock. The funeral was hed Saturday afternoon and burial was made in Graceland cemetery. Bowel trouble was the cause of the baby's death. He was only eight days old.
Mr. Bennett's Body Taken to Illinois
George Sumner Bennett was born at Belvideere Illinois May 25, 1843 and departed this life at the home of his sons S. W. and T. V. Bennett in Coffey county Kansas September 2, 1917 at the age of 74 years, 3 months and 8 days.
Mr. Bennett at the age of 19 answered his country's call by enlisting in the 95th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Company G, and served 3 years, 3 months and 18 days and was honorably discharged at the close of the war, after which he engaged in business for himself in Illinois for a few years. About the year 1870 he came to Coffey county Kansas, and in 1872 he located on the Bennett farm where he died.
February 14, 1875 he was married to Barahia J. Taylor and to this union was born 4 sons and 1 daughter: Samuel W. Bennett, Mrs. Maud Dressler, George A. Bennett, Ivan Augustus Bennett who died 21 years ago at the age of 3 years and 6 months, Timothy V. Bennett. His wife died October 26, 1906.
Mr. Bennett is the last of a family of six brothers the other 5 having gone before. One sister Mrs. Sarah J. Lawrence still living at Belvidere, Ill.
The body will be taken to Belvidere, Ill., and there laid to rest in the family lot beside his father, mother and two brothers.
Ira Saling Laid to Rest
The funeral of Ira Saling was held from the home of his mother Saturday morning at ten o'clock, the services being in charge of Mrs. Ralph C. Woodford. There were a large number of friends present to pay their respect to his memory. The girls of the Congregational choir sang. The interment was in the Graceland cemetery.
Ira Fenton Saling was born in Burlington, Kansas December 12, 1905, and departed this life Thursday August 20, 1917, after an illness of three weeks of typhoid fever. He was a member of the Congregational church. He leaves to mourn his loss, a mother, one brother and two sisters, his father having preceded him May 21, 1912.
from the Burlington Republican, September 5, 1917
Beautiful Tribute Paid Mrs. Pilcher
The funeral of Mrs. Lester J. Pilcher was held at the Methodist church Tuesday afternoon in charge of Rev. C. W. Odom, pastor, and the large church auditorium and the lecture room were filled with friends who were there to pay their tribute of respect for one whom they held so highly. An unusual feature of the funeral was the presence of Company C, 1st Kansas Infantry, in a body, 150 strong as an expression of their sympathy for their comrades, Ray and Austin Pierson, brothers of Mrs. Pilcher. The floral offerings were very beautiful and there were a number of lovely emblems. All of the county officers were present in respect to their co-worker County Commissioner, Pierson and their members of the Zutae club of which she was a member, attended in a body. The music was by Messrs. Hammond, Redmond, Scott and Young with Miss Janet Gibbon as accompanist. At the request of the family Supt. W. S. Rupe of the Burlington High school, delivered a short address in which he paid a high and well deserved tribute to the life and character of Mrs. Pilcher and told of the universal love and esteem held for her in the community. Rev. Mr. Odom followed Mr. Rupe with a short funeral sermon full of comfort and hope for the loved ones so bereft.
The body was laid to rest in Graceland cemetery with a brief service at the grave. The pall bearers were H. E. Douglass, Jesse W. Harrington, C. T. Held, Raymond Reed, E. C. Phillips and Clyde Winn.
Ruth A. Pierson, was born at Glenwood on the Pierson ranch in Pottawatomie township, in Coffey county. After the family moved to Burlington when Mr. Pierson was elected county treasurer, she entered the Burlington schools from which she was graduated in 1913, and during her girlhood she greatly endeared herself to those around her. She was married August 10, 1912 to Lester J. Pilcher, who survives her. She also is survived by her parents, two sisters, and three brothers. Their first baby, Evelyn, passed to the other world when ten months old, and her second baby, Madaline Alene, aged 20 months survives her, and it is the plan now that Mrs. Pilcher's mother, Mrs. Pierson, will take the baby to replace in a way the daughter she has lost. Mrs. Pilcher was a member of the Congregational church and Sunday school and regular in attendance until after the baby came. Seven weeks ago she was taken very ill with typhoid fever which doubtless was contracted while out camping, and after lying at the point of death for weeks, finally gave up the fight Sunday evening, September 2, 1917.
To the many kind friends and neighbors who have been so thoughtful during the long illness and after the death of our loved one, we wish to publicly to extend our most sincere appreciation and thanks, altho we can not express in words our deep feeling. We especially appreciate the courtesy of Captain Parmely and Company C and we feel the sentiment prompting the sending of the beautiful floral offerings.
Lester J. Pilcher
Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Pierson and family,
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Pilcher and family.
from the Burlington Republican, September 6, 1917
Judge Buck Dead
Judge J. Jay Buck died Tuesday morning September 4 at his home in Emporia after a short illness. He was one of the leading men of Lyon county for many years and was well known in Coffey county, having been here in court and in political campaigns.
from the Burlington Republican, September 7, 1917
Miss Frances Doty Dead
Miss Frances Doty of Lebo, died early Tuesday morning, September 4, 1917. The funeral was held at the Lebo Methodist church, Friday afternoon. Typhoid fever was the cause of her death. She was young and very popular.
from the Lebo Enterprise, October 3, 1918
A Pioneer Gone
It becomes our duty this week to chronicle the death of J. M. Manson who was a pioneer first in Burlington and then in Lebo and who had much to do with the early building up of business in both of these places as the following sketch of his life shows.
James Morton Manson was born Nov. 25, 1841 in Miami County, Ohio. He came to Burlington, Kans. May 12, 1859. He was married to Ellen McAlister of that place, May, 19, 1864. to this union were born three children, Mary E., Orilla G. and Hiram M. He had two grand daughters, Hazel and Grace Holton. The three children and his granddaughter Hazel have preceded him to the grave, leaving his devoted wife and his grand daughter Mrs. Grace Holton Chambers to mourn their loss.
As Mr. Manson became known as a good salesman, most any of the business men of Burlington were glad to secure him as a partner. He was partner first with his brother Dr. Wm. Manson and they established the first Drug business in Coffey County, having their store in Burlington. Subsequently he was at different times a partner in establishing the following pioneer business places: The first lumber yard, the first bakery and the first grocery store of Burlington.
He came to Lebo the 10th. of October 1886 and engaged in a general merchandise business, buying and selling at first about everything that was needed in the community. He first opened business in the building now occupied by the Lebo Star and later moved to the room now occupied by the drug store where for years he had the leading store of the town. Several times Mr. Manson tried to retire from business but his inclination to business was so strong that he never seemed satisfied to be entirely at leisure and the latter years of his life he spent in superintending the poultry business of the town and was loath to give up active life until he was compelled to by a complete break down in health. Two years ago he had a spell of the grippe from which he never fully recovered, though he rallied from several attacks. He went to bed two weeks before his death never to again rally. The end came just after midnight Tuesday Oct. 1.
The funeral was conducted Thursday afternoon by Rev. Nau, an Episcopal clergyman of Emporia who held services at the home and at the Baptist church. Interment was in Lincoln cemetery where his brother Odd Fellows performed their ritualistic service. The pall bearers were, J. F. Gaddis, W. A. Jones, J. P. Jones, R. N. Kirkham, T. L. Jones and S. B. Wilhoite.
The deceased was a man who was strictly conscientious, kind hearted and considerate of others and helped many of his customers over hard places by extending to them long credits.
Besides Mr. Manson's useful career as a business man he served his country during the Civil war as an ensigh to Co. K, 9th. regiment of the Kansas State Malitia under command of Capt. Puffer. He helped to quell and defend Ft. Lincoln and mobolized with the regiment at Paola undar Col. James Lane.
Those from a distance attending the funeral were Mrs. J. I. Fitzsimmons of Kansas City, Mo., and the following were from Burlington, Kans.; Mrs. Wm. M. Lane, Eugene, Marie and Ruth Walkling, Mr. and Mrs. Louie Covault, Mr. Al Covault, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Manson and family, Mrs. Rachel Manson, John Manson, Frank Hoffmans, Henry Cowgill and H. L. Jarboe.
from the Burlington Republican, October 4, 1918
JAMES GRIFFITH
IS LAID TO REST
The funeral of James Griffith was held at the Pleasant Hill church Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock in charge of Probate Judge Marvin W. Kelly, and the body laid to rest in the Saunders cemetery near by. The service was an impressive one and largely attended. The pall bearers were Wm. Morris, Ira DeLong, John Bates, Chas DeLong, N. N. Novinger and E. A. Stone.
James Griffith was born in Parkville, Platte county, Mo. April 18, 1842. He was married to Miss Eliza Myers in 1861. This union was blessed with four children: Rachael, Jennie, Thomas and Joseph, all having preceded their father to the great beyond, except Joseph. His wife died in 1877. He afterwards was married to Miss Elizabeth Lynch and one son was born to this union, the mother dying when the child was six weeks old. He kept the children together until this last child was about seven years old and when going to school he was kidnaped. The family searched diligently for years but never heard from him. Mr. Griffith then moved to Pagosa Springs, Colo. were he made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Rachael Latin, until her death two years ago, then living with a grand-daughter, until April last, when he came to Burlington, Kansas where he made his home with his sister, Mrs. S. J. Davis, until his death September 29, 1918, and all was done that loving hands could do to relieve his suffering. He was an honored member of the Odd Fellows Lodge for thirty-six years. Mr. Griffith has visited in and around Burlington for the past forty years at different times and was highly esteemed by those who knew him. He was a kind and loving husband and father. He leaves one son Joseph of Pagosa Springs, Colo. five sisters: Mrs. Mary Curtis, Mrs. Sarah Gardener, Mrs. Francis Davis and Mrs. Elizabeth Smith, all of Burlington, Kansas and Mrs. Eliza Branch of Halls Summit Mo. and one brother, Joseph Griffith of Joplin, Mo. and fifteen grand children, and a host of friends to mourn his departure.
Card of Thanks
We wish to express our most sincere appreciation of the many courtesies and kindnesses shown during the illness and after death of our father.
Joseph Griffith and family.
Mary Curtis and family,
Sarah Gardner and family,
Frances Davis and family,
Elizabeth Smith and family,
Elizabeth Branch and family.
from the Burlington Republican, October 4, 1918
Jay Endsley Killed
Westphalia Times: A sad accident occurred about ten o'clock Monday forenoon between here and Colony which resulted in the almost instant death of Jay Endsley, of this community. Endsley was adjusting the driving belt on a hay press, and in some manner he was caught in same and hurled into the fly wheel. As a result he head was crushed, legs broken, ribs caved in, and when reached, was lifeless. The young man was about twenty years of age, and was an industrious well meaning young man who always attended strictly to his own affairs, and was without the usual bad habits. The bereaved family have the sympathy of all in their loss of a dutiful son and brother.
from the Lebo Enterprise, October 10, 1918
Dr. R. M. C. Gavin
Dr. R. M. C. Gavin was born June 12, 1837 in Butler county Ohio. He was married to Sarah Veach July 28, 1862, in Indiana. To this union were born ten children, Charley D., Sarah E., Jesse J., Minnie L., Mary L. A., Robert M., Jas. W., Ben D., Arthur and Harriett A.
He was bereaved of his wife on Mar. 27, 1915. Was married the second time to Mrs. Julia A. Elston of Tonganoxie, Ks., Oct 5, 1917 at his home in Lebo. He died at Tonganoxie Saturday Oct 5th, 9:40 p.m.
The remains were brought to Lebo Monday and a fnneral service was held at the M. E. church by Rev. H. W. Glaze, pastor of the M. E. church at Tonganoxie assisted by Rev. Webb, pastor of the Lebo M. E. church. The Odd Fellows had charge of the service at the grave in Lincoln cemetery where he was intered in the family lot by the side of his wife.
He is survived by his second wife and five of his boys, Ben, Arthur, Jas. Robert M., and Jesse. Three of the surviving sons were at the funeral, Arthur of Arvonia Jas. of Iola and R. M. of Ottawa. R. M. and wife were with his devoted companion at his bed side when death came.
Dr. Gavin settled in Lebo as a practicing physician in 1885 when the two was only three years old and was thus one of Lebo's pioneer doctors. While there has been periods of time when he changed locations yet Lebo has practically been his home from the time he first came here until last fall when he married his second wife they went to her home in Tonganoxie where he was building up a new practice until his health broke down when he and his wife went to Ottawa and spent the summer at the home of his son Bob. About two months ago they returned home. But soon his ailments took a fresh grip upon him and notwithstanding he had the best of care from his faithful companion and many kind neighbors and friends his vitality was too low to baffle this last attack and he was forced to seccumb to the inertabley though not before he had expressed himself as being willing to die.
Dr. Gavin was a close medical student and was very devoted to his profession and as long as he entertained hopes of recovery he looked forward with high anticipations to resuming his practice.
He was a man of high ideals of character and early in life became a christain. He was first a member of the Christian church and later united with the Methodist church and was at one time an exhertor in the Methodist church and was always interested in the progress of churches.
He was an interested and loyal member of the Masonic and I. O. O. F. Fraternities and was the instigator and organizoe of the Rebekah Lodge of this place.
Thus has passed from life an unselfish character, who was always willing to help his fellow men, never desiring to take a selfish advantage in his own interest.
from the Lebo Star, October 11, 1918
An Early Settler Gone
Early Monday morning the death angle called at the Saueressig home in this city and took from his bed of sickness J. V. Saueressig and took him to his reward in the world to come. Last May Mr. Saueressig was taken sick and shortly after was taken to a hospital in Kansas City where an operation was performed to tumor on the brain, but the operation did not restore his health as was hoped. Since that time he has been bedfast and gradually growing weaker.
John Volkentine Saueressig was a son of John P. and Eva Catherine Saueressig and was born in Little Machinaw, Pazewell county, Ill., Nov. 8, 1863 and came to Johnson county Mo., with his father's family in 1867 where they resided until the spring of 1876 when they came to Coffey county, Kansas and settled in the Rural Dale district, which has been known as the "Saueressig neighborhood" for many years. "Vol" as his friends all knew him, was one of the successful farmers of that community until the spring of 1911 when with his wife they moved to Lebo and erected their new home where they have since resided. After coming to town Vol entered the real estate, loan and insurance business and carried this on until his sickness last May. Feb. 22, 1888 he was married to Mary A. Dressler, who with six brothers and five sisters survive him. The death of J. V. was the first break in a family of twelve children. The mother and father preceeded him to the better world in 1865 and 1899 respectively. The living brothers and sisters are: Phillip Henry of Montana, John P. of Calif., Jacob of Lebo, P. Fred of Calif., G. Ed. of Fredonia, Kans., Mrs. Louisa A. Hass of Baldwin, Kas., William of Lebo, Miss Minnie Saueressig of Lawrence, Kans., Mrs. Katie Shattler of Calif., and Mrs. Emma Dion of Calif. All of these were present for the funeral except P. F. Mrs. Shattler and Mrs. Dion.
The Saueressig family was one of thrift and consequently prosperous. J. V. was rather a quiet man, generally attending strictly to his own business and yet as Justice of the Peace he used his official capacity to settle many little troubles out of court. He lived a just and upright life and was a good husband and a good citizen. In his business transactions he was prompt and punctual, careful and particular that everything should be straight and fair and square. He was converted in 1904 and joined the M. E. church May 19, 1918.
The funeral was held from the M. E. church Wednesday afternoon, the sermon being preached by Rev. Webb, interment being made in Lincoln cemetery, the Odd Fellows using their grave service. The music was furnished by a male quartet--Rev. Webb, C. B. Scofield, J. E. Smith and C. E. Pickens. The Odd Fellows and Rebekahs attended the funeral in a body, the deceased being a member of both orders. Mrs. Saueressig's Sunday School class, the "Sunbeams" also attended in a body. The floral offerings were many and beautiful.
The Star joins the community in extending sympathy to the bereft.
CARD OF THANKS
We wish to extend our sincere and heartfelt thanks to our many friends for the many kindnesses, sustaining aid and many beautiful flowers contributed by them during the long illness, death and burial of our beloved husband and brother. Again we thank you.
Mary A. Saueressig, John P. Saueressig. Other Brothers and Sisters