SACKVILLE, William R.
William R. Sackville died at 11:0 Thursday morning at the family residence,
7-3 North Bright street. He would have been eighty-five years old May 22. He had been in
feeble health for some time, but his condition did not become serious until Wednesday
morning. He was born in Pennsylvania, but had lived in Illinois for fifty years. He is
survived by his two sons, W. W. Sackville of Rock Island and L. T. Sackville of Decatur, and
one daughter, Mrs. Lucy Spencer of Findlay, Ill. He was a member of the Christian church
and also of the G.A.R. at Mattoon. The boy was removed to Dawson’s undertaking establishment
and prepared for burial and will be taken to Mattoon.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 18 Apr 1912
SALOGA, Infant
The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Julius Saloga died Sunday, Dec. 29, at the family
home, 918 North Charles street. The funeral was held Monday afternoon from the residence.
Rev. William Heyne officiated and the burial was at Greenwood.
Decatur Review, 30 Dec 1901
SALOGGA, Amelia
The funeral of Mrs. Amelia Salogga, the oldest member of St. Johannes' Lutheran
church, was held at the church at 2:30 o'clock Monday afternoon, following a short service at
the home of her son, John Salogga, 1213 East Leafland avenue. The services were conducted by
Rev. William Heyne. There was a large attendance, the church being filled with friends. The
music was furnished by the regular choir of the church.
The flowers were in charge of Miss Laura Bielinski, Miss Chena Bielinski, Miss
Mamie Salogga, Miss Laura Hill, Miss Margaret Salogga and Miss M. Bastian, all grand-daughters
of Mrs. Salogga.
The pallbearers were all grandsons. They were Henry Roarick, Charles Roarick, Fred
Roarick, Charles Bielinski, Theodore Bielinski and George Bielinski. The interment was at the
Lutheran cemetery.
Decatur Review, 17 December 1918
SALOGGA, Infant
An infant child of Karl Salloga died yesterday at the family residence, No.
1118 Railroad avenue, and will be buried this afternoon at half past one o’clock. The funeral
services will be conducted by Rev. George Landgraff of the German Lutheran church.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 27 Mar 1886
SOLLAGGA, Mrs. Charles
Died, at six o’clock yesterday morning, Mrs. Charles Sollagga, of inflammation
of the bowels. She was thirty-six years old. The funeral will take place at two o’clock this
afternoon, Rev. Landgraf officiating.
Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 25 Apr 1886
SAMMONS, Albert "Jim"
Born: 10 Aug. 1880 in Mechanicsburg, IL
Died: 7 Mar 1954 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Weldon Cemetery, DeWitt Co, IL
Parents: Thomas R. and Melissa Jane (Florey) Sammons
SAMMONS, Melissa Jane (Florey)
Born: 13 Apr 1859, near Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Died: 14 Jun 1940 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Weldon Cemetery, DeWitt Co, IL
Parents: David and Rachel (Rittenhouse) Florey
Married: June 25, 1875 in Taylorville, IL
Children: Myrtle, Ada, Albert, Robert Josie & Grace
SAMMONS, Robert Wm.
Born: 29 Dec 1887 in Oreana, Macon Co, IL
Died: 15 Jul 1919 in British Col., Canada (Died of WW I wounds)
Buried:
Parents: Thomas R. & Melissa J. (Florey) Sammons
SAMMONS, Thomas R.
Born: 5 Jan 1852 in Barborsville, Knox Co, KY
Died: 29 Aug 1941 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Weldon Cem, DeWitt Co, IL
Parents: Benjamin & Polly (Storset) Sammons
Married: 25 Jun 1875 in Taylorville, Christian Co, IL to Melissa Jane Florey
Children: Myrtle, Ada, Albert, Robert, Josie & Grace
SASSEEN, Neta
Died, at the residence of her grandfather, A.B. Riley, at the Laclede hostel on Front
street, Little Neta, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Sasseen, at 8:30 o'clock yesterday evening.
The child was but ten months old, and early yesterday it seemed as well as usual. Its mother going
out to call upon a neighbor, the little one said, "Bye, bye," in its childish, happy way, but when
the mother returned a few minutes later, it was very ill. A physician was called, who pronounced
the trouble congestion of the stomach, but there seemed to be no relief, and the babe grew worse,
and going from one spasm to another, it passed away as above stated. The funeral will take place
to-morrow.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 2 Mar 1886
The remains of little Neta, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Sasseen, were buried yesterday
afternoon in Greenwood cemetery. The funeral service took place from the family residence on Front
street. The services were conducted by Presiding Elder Wilder.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 4 Mar 1886
SAUER, Wesley
Wesley Sauer, died of consumption on Friday, August 17, at the home of his mother,
Mrs. William Scanlan, No. 234 South Water street, aged 20 years.
Weekly Herald Despatch, 26 August 1893
SAUL, Sarah J. (Valentine)
She came to Decatur First in 1856 and Lived Here Till 1878
Mrs Sarah J. Saul died Monday morning at 6:30 at the home of her son, M. W. Fitzpatrick,
802 West Eldorado street. The cause of her death was tumerous cancer. She had been
seriously ill for six weeks.
Mrs Saul was born in Fayette county Ky. Her maiden name was Valentine. She was married
to James Fitzpatrick of Lexington Ky. Dec 28, 1843. She came to Decatur in September 1856,
and lived here till 1878. Mr. Fitzpatrick died June 18, 1866. His wife, in 1878, went to
Great Bend, Kan., to make her home and lived there until fourteen years ago. She was married
there to John Saul. Fourteen years ago she moved to Plainsboro and five months ago, on account
of her ill-health came to Decatur to make her home with her son.
She leaves seven children, thirty-three grand children and seventeen great-grandchildren.
The children are: Mrs Caleb Smith of McLeansboro, Mrs S. V. May and Mrs John Skelley of
Decatur, Mrs. J. J. Gallagher of Chicago, Richard B. Fitzpatrick and M. W. Fitzpatrick Sr.
of Decatur, and James E. Fitzpatrick of Freeport. She also leaves two sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth
Scott of Sioux City and Mrs. Nannie Newman of Versailles Ky. Her husband John Saul, is now
living in Benton City.
The funeral will be held Wednesday morning from St. Patrick's church.
Decatur Review, Monday Evening, Dec. 27, 1909, Page 8
Submitted by: Michael C. Delahunty,
July 14,2001
Saturday Herald (Decatur), 4 June 1887
SAWYER, Benjamin
The end of one of the saddest tragedies ever known to have occurred in Decatur came
this morning at one o'clock in the death of Mr. Benjamin Sawyer, one of the terrible occurrence
of Monday last, he dying at the hour named at his late residence at the corner of Franklin and
East Wood streets.
At the time when Mr. Sawyer received what proved to be his death-wound, he thought
he was but slightly hurt; but when a careful examination of the wound was made by attending
surgeons they at once saw that his condition was exceedingly critical, and gave it as their
opinion that his chances for recovery were small. Throughout Monday he retained his reason
fully and showed no signs of flightiness until the following day. Since then his symptoms
steadily grew worse, and his strength as steadily declined. Yesterday morning the occurrences
of spasms swept away the last vestige of hope, and his death from that time was hourly expected
until it came.
Mr. Sawyer was a most highly respected citizen, being a man of upright life, and
an unusually kind and sympathizing disposition. Though sixty years old at the time of his
death, Mr. S. had never married, so that the only near relatives surviving him are brothers
and sisters, among whom are Mrs. W.A. Barnes and Mr. John Sawyer, both of this town.
The sad event which has finally culminated in Mr. Sawyer's death, and also in
the entire community. Surviving friends will have the deepest sympathy of all.
Deceased was born in Lebanon county, of Penn., in 1818, and came to this county
about 1839. When the California excitement swept over the country, he, with Mr. Silas
Packard, Major E.O. Smith, J.A. Draper and others from this county, went to the land of gold,
about 1850, Mr. Sawyer returning in 1851. Since then he has been a constant resident of
Decatur, and has been identified with her business. There surviving him, besides the
brother and sister residing here and named above, one brother and three sisters, now living
in Pennsylvania.
Being aware of his critical condition on the evening of Monday, the day of the
tragedy, Mr. S. made a will disposing of his worldly effects, though then he had strong
expectations of an immediate recovery.
Decatur Weekly Republican, Decatur, IL, 14 Nov 1878, pg. 6
The funeral of Mr. Benjamin Sawyer took place this forenoon at 10:30 o'clock from
his late residence at the corner of Wood and Franklin streets.
Notwithstanding the unfavorable state of the weather, the rooms of the house were
all crowded with neighbors and friends who came to pay their last tribute of respect to the
departed.
A most earnest and appropriate prayer was offered by Rev. F.N. Ewing. Scripture
selections from the Psalms, and also from the fifteenth chapter of First Corinthians, were
read by Rev. Mr. Prestley, pastor of the Presbyterian church, who also made an appropriate
address from the words of Job, "Surely thou wilt bring me to death to the house appointed for
all living." He said that the forethought and prudence which lead men to provide for their
comfort in old age, and also for their children, was pronounced wise by men; it was also approved
of God. The speaker said that to provide for the unseen future which lies beyond the limits of
time, was a still wiser thing to do. The reluctance with which men bring death home to
themselves was commented uon, and the text was urged upon the attention of those present as
being well calculated to impress them with their certain approach to the end of life.
At the conclusion of the services at the house the remains were taken to Greenwood
Cemetery for interment, whither they were followed by many of those in attendance at the
dwelling.
Decatur Weekly Republican, Decatur, IL, 14 Nov 1878, pg. 1
SAWYER, Harriet (Mylor)
Mrs. John Sawyer, who died Thursday night, was one of Macon county's oldest and most
respected citizens, coming to this county early in the thirties. Her maiden name was Harriet
Mylor, and was born near Cincinnati, O., March 27, 1821. She married Levi Gulick, Jan. 2, 1838,
a man known among the early settlers of Macon county. Mr. and Mrs. Gulick had five children,
two of whom are living, Julius A. Williams and Lafayette Gulick. Mr. Gulick died the 14th of
September, 1852. Mrs. Gulick and John Sawyer were married May 27, 1854, to whom were born
three children, Alice, who died seven years ago, Mrs. Anna B. Harnsberger, wife of James J.
Harnsberger, and Edwin Sawyer. Mrs. Sawyer resided on the farm north of the city from the time
of her marriage to Mr. Gulick till her death. Mr. Sawyer and the surviving children have the
sympathies of a large circle of friends.
The funeral will take place from the home immediately west of the Traver &
May addition at 2 o'clock this afternoon.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 7 May 1892, pg. 4
The funeral of Mrs. John Sawyer occurred yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock from
the home northwest of town. The sermon was preached by Rev. James Miller of the First Methodist
church. It paid a high tribute to the dead. There were several pretty floral designs. One was
a large pillow with the words upon it, Our Mother. A large cortege followed the hearse to
Greenwood. The pall bearers were J.I. Gorin, J.Y. Braden, J.R. Miller, James Milligan, Captain
W.I. Bingham, A.T. Metlin.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 8 May 1892, pg. 2
SAWYER, John
After an illness of several months, the last two weeks of which he was confined
to his bed, John Sawyer, Sr., pased away, yesterday morning at 10 o'clock. His advanced age
was against him and his death was not unexpected.
Deceased was born in Lebanon county, Pa., Oct 10, 1811. He was united in marriage
to Miss Eliza Ketring in 1834. Six children were born to them. They are, Mrs. Mary Packard of
this city, wife of Silas Packard, John, William and Orlando Sawyer, and Mrs. Emma L. Butler, who
lives near Forsyth. Thomas E., one of the children, died when one year old. The wife and mother
died in 1848. In 1854, Mr. Sawyer married Mrs. Harriet Gulick and to the couple three children
were born, two of whom are living. They are Mrs. Anna B. Harnsberger of Champaign county and
Edwin Sawyer. Mrs. Sawyer died in 1892.
Deceased came to Macon county in the spring of 1834 and settled near Decatur. He
came here on horseback and purchased 160 acres of land.
In 1850 he started for California overland with a team of mules. He prospected for
fold and was successful. He returned in 1854 and purchased 205 acres of land near Decatur. This
land was afterward disposed of to R. Betzer, and he then purchased 280 acres near Forsyth. He
also possessed fourteen acres near Decatur and other property in the city at the time of his
death.
He became a member of Macon lodge No. 8 A.F. & A.M. in 1848 and was made a
member of Beaumanoir commandery No. 9, Knights Templar. The funeral will be held from the
residence, 405 North College street, Sunday at 10 o'clock a.m. The Masons will have charge of the
services.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 13 Jan 1894, pg. 2
The funeral services over the body of John Sawyer, 405 North College street,
Sunday forenoon. Rev. C.G. Wood delivered the funeral oration. The friends and relatives of
the deceased turned out in large numbers. The body was interred in the Greenwood cemetery,
the Masons having charge of the services.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 16 Jan 1894, pg.2
SAYLOR, L.
At 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon the funeral of Mrs. L. Saylor was held at the
residence, 1021 East Cerro Gordo street. Rev. C.E. Torrey conducted the funeral service. Upon
the coffin were several floral designs, among them one from the King's Daughters. The interment
was at Greenwood.
Daily Review (Decatur), 26 June 1892
SCHANIEL, Nicholas
Of measles and lung fever at 5 p.m. on Monday, May 30, 1887, Nicholas, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Schaniel, aged 9 months.
Saturday Herald (Decatur), 4 June 1887
SCHENCK, Garrett
OLD MAROA CITIZEN DEAD
Garrett SCHENCK, one of the first settlers in Maroa, died at his home in that
city Sunday at 11 oclock. He had been in poor health two or three months, and a few days
before his death was stricken with paralysis. He was born in Ohio in April, 1832, and lived
there until he came to Maroa, or where Maroa now is, as he built the first house there, and
it is still standing on the principal street where it was built nearly a half century ago.
He bought grain and ran a store many years, and for several years, before his wife died,
conducted a boarding house. He is survived by four sons, John, Charles, Frank and William,
all of Maroa. As the old Schenck home is on one of the best business corners in Maroa, it
will not be long until a business building takes its place.
Clinton Register, DeWitt Co., IL, Friday, 25 Dec 1903
SCHLIPF, Charles
The funeral of the late Charles Schlipf took place yesterday afternoon from
the family residence. Rev. J.W. Van Cleve of Grace Methodist church conducted the services
and the remains were interred in Greenwood cemetery. The funeral was in charge of the
members of the G.A.R. and they served as pall bearers as follows: H. Mahannah, Wesley
Larrick, Henry Aldridge, M. Cavanaugh, Peter Kofer and George S. Durfee.
Decatur Herald, Decatur IL, 31 Dec 1904
Charles Schlipp, an old soldier, died suddenly at 4:00 Wednesday afternoon
at his home near the twin bridges about four miles north west of Decatur. He had been in
poor health for about a year, but was able to be around until a day or two ago, when he
took a severe cold. Thursday his cold seemed to be much better, but about 4 o’clock he
was seized with neuralgia of the heart and died in less than an hour. He was ?7 years old.
He leaves tow sons and a daughter, W. F., Fred and Matilda Shlipp, all of this county. He
came from Germany, but had lived here a long time and was a member of Dunham post G.A.R.
The funeral will be held at 1 o’clock tomorrow afternoon from the residence
and will be in charge of the G.A.R. The interment will be at Greenwood.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 29 Dec 1904, pg. 5
SCHLOSSER, Peter, Capt.
Capt. Peter Schlosser and Fred G. Dipper Pass Away Same Day
TWO PROMINENT RESIDENTS DEAD
Latter A Veteran of War
Both Recognized as Among Decatur's Best German Citizens.
Capt. Schlosser succumbed to cancer at 4 o'clock in the morning in St.
Mary's hospital. He was 75 years old. For the past two months he had
been confined to the hospital. Ten months ago he became afflicted and
since that time he had steadily declined until death brought relief
yesterday.
Capt. Schlosser, also, was recognized as one of Decatur's best known
Germans. Like Mr. Dipper he had spent the best part of his life in
Decatur, having lived here for 42 years.
He was born in St. Julian, Germany, and came to this country when he
was 17 years old. He married Miss Clara Minich in Decatur in 1866.
From Private to Captain.
When the call for soldiers was issued at the time of the Civil war, he
enlisted in the Eighth Illinois Regiment as a private. His military
training in Germany stood him in good stead and he soon became a
captain, the office he held when he was mustered out of service. He was
a good soldier and fought in many of the hardest battles of the war. For
many years the family has lived at 1004 East Wood street. The deceased
leaves a widow and a niece, Mrs. Augusta Schlosser, who lives in the
state of Washington. The body was taken to Moran's undertaking
establishment and prepared for burial. Tonight the remains will be
removed to the home of Mrs. Augustus Harpstrite, corner Broadway and
East Prairie street, from where the funeral services will be held at 2
o'clock Tuesday afternoon. Mrs. Harpstrite is a sister of Mrs.
Schlosser. The services will be held under the auspices of Dunham Post.
No. 144, G.A.R., of which the deceased was a member. Interment will be
made in Greenwood cemetery.
Decatur Daily Herald, Decatur, IL, October 26, 1908
Submitted by: Eric Taylor, Seattle, WA
Captain Peter Schlosser, an old German resident of Decatur died at 4 o’clock
Sunday morning at St. Mary’s hospital, where he had been confined for the last two months.
For then months he had bee a sufferer from cancer, and it was that that caused his death.
Captain Schlosser was seventy-five years old. For forty-two years he had claimed Decatur
as his home.
He was a native of St. Julian Germany. He came to America when he was seventeen
years old. In 18??, he married Miss Clara Minich in Decatur. He is survived by his wife and
one niece, Mrs. Augusta Schlosser, whose home is in the state of Washington.
Captain Schlosser was a veteran of the civil war. He enlisted as a private in
the Eighth Illinois. He advanced rapidly and when he was mustered out he held the rank of
captain. The family residence has for many years been at 1004 East Wood street.
The body was taken to Moran’s undertaking establishment and prepared for burial
and tonight will be removed to the home of Mrs. Schlosser’s sister, Mrs. Augusta Harpstrite,
corner Broadway and East Prairie avenue where the funeral will be held at 2 o’clock Tuesday
afternoon. The services will be under the auspices of Dunham Post 141, G.A.R. The interment
will be at Greenwood.
The Decatur Daily Review, Decatur IL, 26 Oct 1908
NOTE: A description of the funeral was published in The Decatur Daily Review,
28 Oct 1908.
SCHMIDT, Margaret (Florey) Cain
Died In Chicago
Information was received in this city of the death of the former wife of Lewis R. Cain in
Chicago at 11 o'clock Friday night. She had been living for several years with her son in
Chicago. Her maiden name was Florey and she was a sister of Jasper Florey, who lived in
Decatur until recently.
The Review, Decatur, IL - Mon. evening, Dec 30, 1902, p. 8
Margaret died 27 Dec 1901. She was born in 1846 in Macon Co. the daughter of Israel &
Elizabeth (Bell) Florey. She married 3 Sep 1868 in Sangamon Co., IL to Louis Reed Cain. She
was the mother of three sons, Frank, Louis Richard and Cort Cain.
SCHMINK, George F.
George F. Schmink for nearly 50 years a resident of Decatur, died Wednesday
noon in Macon County hospital where he had been a patient since last September. Funeral
services will be in the Dawson & Wikoff chapel Friday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock. Until
the funeral the body will be in the home of his son, J.A. Schmink, 1247 West Forest avenue
where friends may call.
George F. Schmink was born Dec. 14, 1843 near Columbus, Ind., and during the
war of the states served four years with 4th Ind. Cavalry. He was married to Caroline B.
Lamar in 1871 and for 10 years they made near Georgetown and Fairmont in 1881 coming to
Decatur where Mrs. Schmink died in 1914. He leaves the following children: Sam E. Schmink,
Port Arthur Tex.,; the Rev. J.A. Schmink, Columbus, O.; Walter C. Schmink, Wilkes Barre, Pa.;
S.M. Schmink, Oreana; Mrs. Mayme Welser, Mrs. Susan Larrick and Jacob A. Schmink of Decatur;
his two sisters, Mrs. Emmea Austin and Miss Mary Schmink and brother, Jacob Schmink of Rhyse,
Mo., and another borther, Tillman Schmink of Allerton. There are 18 grandchildren and five
great grandchildren.
G. F. Schmink was a member of First Methodist church and of Dunham post G.A.R.
Decatur Evening Herald, Decatur IL, 23 Feb 1928, pg. 11.
SCHNEPPER, Albert L.
Albert L. Schnepper, well known resident of Boody, died at his home there at 5
o’clock Sunday morning. He would have been thirty-four years old in October.
Mr. Schnepper was born near Noble, Ill., Oct 22, 1894. He is survived by his
wife and one son. He also leaves his mother and two sisters and a brother, Mrs. George LaRice
of Indianapolis, and Mrs. Phillip Gumbel and William Schnepper of Noble. The body will
remain at the home and friends may call there.
The funeral will be held at 2:30 o’clock Tuesday afternoon at the United Brethren
church there. The burial will be in the Salem cemetery.
Decatur Evening Herald, Decatur IL, 18 Jun 1928
SCHOENBERGER, Nancy Smith (Reed)
Born: 19 Jul 1937 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Died: 26 Apr 1960 in Los Angeles, CA
Buried: Live Oak Cem, Monvoria, CA
Parents: Donald & Marjorie (Pflaum) Reed
Married: 26 Sep 1955 in Roswell, NM to Ronald Schoenberger
Children: Susan
SCHONCOFSKI, Anna
Anna Schoncofski, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Schoncofski, died at 2
o'clock Sunday morning at the family residence, 570 North Third street, after an illness of four
weeks. Her age was thirteen months. She was born in Germany, coming to America with her mother
about four weeks ago. The funeral was held at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon at St. James' Catholic
church. The services were conducted by Rev. Father Ostendorf. The interment was in Calvary.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 8 Sep 1913, pg. 12
SCHRATER, John
The body of John Schrater arrived here Monday noon and was taken immediately
to the Cross cemetery for interment. The body was accompanied by Mrs. Schrater and son
Frank. Mrs. Arthur Haines, a daughter of the deceased, and George Durfee, captain of Dunham
post, G.A.R. of Decatur, joined them at that city.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 12 Jan 1905
SCHROAT, Elizabeth
Elizabeth Schroat, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Schroat, died at 3 o'clock
Saturday afternoon at the family residence, corner of Cantrell and Seventh streets. She was only
a few weeks old. Her twin sister, Barbara, died Jan. 6. Private funeral services will be held
at the residence Monday morning. The interment will be in Greenwood cemetery.
Decatur Review, Sunday, 15 Jan 1922
The funeral of Elizabeth Schroat, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Schroat, was
held at 10:30 o'clock Monday morning at the family residence, corner of Stone and Whitmer street.
The services were conducted by Rev. Irvinb Fox, pastor of the Riverside Baptist church. The
music was furnished by Mrs. Grubbs. The interment was in Greenwood cemetery.
Decatur Review, Monday, 16 Jan 1922
SCHROAT, Leda
LITTLE GIRL DIES OF DIPTHERIA
Leda Schroat, Six Years Old, Ill One Week
Leda Marie Schroat, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Schroat, died at
_ o'clock Wednesday morning in the family residence, 812 East Condit street. She was six
years old. Her death was caused by diptheria after an illness of one week. She was born
in Decatur, Oct. 13, 1913. Beside her parents she is survived by two sisters and two
brothers, Margaret Schroat, Dorothy Schroat, Everett Schroat and Virgil Schroat.
The funeral will be held Thursday and will be private. The interment will
be in Greenwood.
Decatur Review, Wednesday, 12 Nov 1919
The funeral of Leda Marie Schroat, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Schroat,
was held Thursday afternoon at the residence, 812 East Condit street, and was private, the
child having died of diptheria. The interment was in Greenwood cemetery.
Decatur Review, Friday, 14 Nov 1919
SCHROEDER, Margaret N.
Mrs. Margaret N. Schroeder, wife of Rudolph H. Schroeder, died at 6 o'clock Sunday
evening at the family residence in Warrensburg. She would have been 59 years old in December.
She had been ill but a short time. Her death followed a stroke of paralysis.
Mrs. Schroeder was born in Cerro Gordo December 3, 1869. She is survived by her
husband and two sons, Cecil Peck of Tuscola and Lindley Peck of San Diego, Cal. and two daughters,
Miss Ruth Peck and Mrs. Marie Weaver, both of Decatur. There are two grandchildren. She also
leaves a brother, M. Frank Gunkle of Decatur and the following sisters; Mrs. A.F. David of Portland,
Ore., Mrs. Frank Groff of La Place and Mrs. Laura Dantrich of Conway Springs, Kan. The body was
taken to Brintlinger & Sons, funeral directors, and prepared for burial
Decatur Daily Review, Monday, 9 July 1926
SCHROLL, David L.
David L. Schroll, aged seventy-six years died at ? o’clock this morning,
after a long illness. He had had several strokes of paralysis.
Mr. Schroll was a prominent well to do retired farmer. He was born in
Ohio Dec 24, 1840 and was private in the 42nd Ohio Infantry of the Civil war. He was
in several important battles. In 1865 he was married. His wife died but he married
again a few years later. His second wife survives. He also leaves one daughter,
Mrs. George Faith.
The funeral will be held Sunday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock from the house,
and Rev. W. S. Dando of the Illini church will have charge of the service. Burial
will be in the Illini cemetery.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 22 Sep 1916
SCHROLL, Estella May (Peck)
Mrs. Estella Schroll died Thursday morning at 1:20 o'clock in the home of her
daughter, Mrs. Floy Beasley, 423 North Nineteenth street.
Estella May Peck was born Sept. 13, 1866, in Piatt county, near Cerro Gordo.
She was the daughter of Jacob and Amanda Peck, both deceased. She was married to Eli Schroll
of near La Place Sept 23, 1888, who preceded her in death Feb. 1917.
She leaves the following children: Mrs. Grace Loudy of Tolono, Mrs. Floy Beasley,
Mrs. Gladys McKenzie and Mrs. Pearle Tohill of Decatur, two step daughters, Mrs. Rosa Tucker
of Lintner and Mrs. Winnis Parrish of near Decatur and 12 grandchildren. She also leaves two
sisters, Mrs. Mollie Weakley of La Place, Mrs. Ola Tohill of Casner and a host of relatives
and friends to mourn her death.
She was a member of the Presbyterian church of Bement where she lived for 26
years.
The body was removed to Moran & Sons chapel. Funeral services will be in
the chapel Friday afternoon at 2:30. Burial will be in Bement cemetery.
Decatur Herald, 3 Oct 1929
SCHUERMANN, Anton C., Jr.
EXPIRES 10 DAYS AFTER HIS BROTHER
Anton C. Schuermann, Jr. died at 5 o'clock Friday afternoon at the family residence,
830 East Clay street. He was twenty-seven years old last January. His death was caused by
pneumonia followed by an attack of influenza. He had been ill for two weeks and a half and is
the second member of that family to die within ten days, his brother, Henry Theodore Schuermann,
having died of the same disease a week ago last Tuesday, at the age of sixteen years.
Anton C. Schuermann was born in Decatur, Jan. 6, 1891, and he had lived here all
his life. He was a member of St. James Catholic church and had many friends in the city. Besides
his parents he is survived by five sisters and one brother, Sister Prudentia, financial of the
the Sacred Heart sanitarium at Milwaukee; Sister Beatrice, who is druggist at the same institution;
Mrs. Oscar Kibele of Springfield; Frances Schuermann, Elizabeth Schuermann and Bernard Schuermann,
all of Decatur. His mother, Mrs. A.C. Schuermann, has been ill with influenza, but her condition
is improving.
Decatur Review, 16 November 1918
The funeral of Anton C. Schuermann, Jr. will be held at 9 o'clock Monday morning at
St. James Catholic church. The services will be conducted by Rev. Father Ostendorf. The interment
will be in Calvary.
Decatur Review, 16 November 1918
SCHULTZ, Dottie
Dottie, nine year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alex Schultz, died near
Macon, Wednesday afternoon, May 24th 1882, of consumption.
SCHUREMAN, Israel
DEATH OF I. SCHUREMAN
Stricken Down By Apoplexy At His Home In Ravenswood
Israel Schureman died last Friday night, Oct. 27, at his home in Ravenswood,
just north of Chicago, at 9 p.m. His death was due to apoplexy and he lived but a few
minutes after being stricken down. The body was taken to Green Valley on Saturday last
and buried there Sunday in the family lot. Mr. Schureman was 49 years and 10 months old.
He leaves a wife and two sons, both grown. Many Decatur people will remember Mr. Schureman
as a former resident and business man of Decatur. He came here from Green Valley and
purchased the N.B. Cole drug store when it was located on the corner of Merchant and
Prairie streets, where the Citizens' National bank now stands. Afterwards he removed to
North Water street and a short time later he sold his business to A.J. Blaine. He then
went to Chicago and at the time of his death was engaged in the fresh meat business. Mr.
Schureman was a member of one of the oldest families in Tazewell county and at one time
was very welathy, but in the later years of life he lost considerable money. He was a
quiet, easy going man and was well liked by all who knew him. Those who knew him intimately
will deeply regret to hear of his death.
The Weekly Herald Despatch (Decatur), 5 Nov 1892
SCHWAB, Frederick
F. SCHWAB, 89, DIES THURSDAY
Veteran of Civil War, Had Been Resident of This County Since 1856
Frederick Schwab, 89, a Civil war veteran and a resident of Macon county since
1856, died at 12:50 o'clock Thursday night in the home of a daughter, Mrs. Emma Roberts,
1561 North Union street. Mr. chwab had been in failing health for the last six months.
Death was caused by a complication of diseases incident to age.
Mr. Schwab was one of the oldest Civil war veterans in the county and was
until his illness an active emmber of Dunham Post, No. 4, G.A.R.
He leaves 9 children, one by a first and eight by his second marriage. They
are; J.T. Schwab, Decatur; Dr. Leslie W. Schwab, Chicago; Dr. Will A. Schwab, Elkhart;
Dr. Fred Schwab, Clearlake, Ia.; Mrs. Harvey Thatcher, Decatur; Mrs. H.H.Hill, Chico,
Cal.; Mrs. H.J. Dearth, Urbana, and Mrs. J.B. Whalen of Decatur
Born on March 20, 1839, Mr. Schwab had been a resident of Macon county since
1856. He served in the Civil war as lieutenant of Co. I., 11th Illinois Infantry. After
the war he returned to marry Miss Amira Culver of Decatur, who died a few years after
their marriage. In 1874 he married Miss Christina Gross, of Emory.
The body was brought to the Brintlinger & Sons funeral establishment
where funeral services will be conducted at 2:30 o'clock Sunday afternoon. The body
will remain in the residence, 1561 North Union street until funeral time. Friends may
call at the home.
Decatur Evening Herald, 5 Oct 1928
Funeral services for Frederick Schwab will be conducted at 2:30 o'clock
Sunday afternoon in the Brintlinger chapel. Burial will be in Greenwood cemetery.
Decatur Evening Herald, 6 Oct 1928
Funeral services for Frederick Schwab were conducted at 2:30 o'clock Sunday
afternoon in the Brintlinger & Sons chapel, Rev. R.M. Pierce of the Grace Methodist
church and Rev. C.W. Flewelling of the Central Church of Christ officiating. Burial
was in Greenwood cemetery. The Decatur post of the G.A.R. attended in body and
conducted its ritual.
SCHWARTZ, J. Henry
The funeral of J. Henry Schwartz was held at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon at Trinity
church. The services were held by Rev. Frank J. Sternberg and were under the auspices of the
Macon lodge No. 8, A.F. and A.M., members of which attended the services in a body and conducted
their ritualistic exercises at the grave.
The music was furnished by Mrs. Corydon C. Nicholson and Mrs. W. Roy Essick. There
were many beautiful floral tributes, in charge of Mrs. Mary W. Benson, Miss Lucille Bain, Miss
Catherine Buckley, Miss Kate Naughton, Miss Helen Besalske and Miss Clara Kusch.
The pallbearers were Edward Kusch, John Kusch, Henry T. Wencke, Edward Bauer, H.T.
Carmichael and M. McGlassen. The interment was at Fairlawn cemetery.
Decatur Review, 17 December 1918
SCOONOVER, Jane
DIED ON HER 85TH BIRTHDAY - DEATH COMES AT MIDNIGHT TO MRS. JANE SCOONOVER OF MAROA
Mrs. Jane Scoonover died Monday night shortly after midnight at the home of her daughter,
Mrs. J. T. Hitt, aged 85 years old. She celebrated her 85th birthday on Monday.
She had been ill about two weeks as a result of a fall received about three weeks ago.
Mrs. Scoonover was born in Pemberton County, Va. She was married three times, first to a
man named Smith, the second time to a Mr. Buchanan, and the third time to Mr. Scoonover, and
was the mother of 13 children, 5 of whom are still living.
She made her home with her duaghter, Mrs. Hitt in Maroa 26 years. Arrangements for the
funeral have not been announced.
Decatur Daily Review, Tues, Mar 28, 1905, p. 1
The funeral of Mrs. Scoonover was held this afternoon at 4 o'clock. Interment at Maroa Cem.
Decatur Daily Review, Wed, Mar 29, 1905
SCOTT, Albert C.
Born: 3 Oct 1859
Died: 9 Feb 1934
Buried: Mt. Zion Cem., Macon Co, IL
Parents:
Married: 7 Dec 1884 in Macon Co, IL to Martha E. Stuart
Children: Ollie, Lelah & Lula
SCOTT, Emma
Emma, wife of J.W. Scott, died at her home, two and one-half miles northeast of Oreana,
at 7 o'clock Saturday morning of consumption. Deceased was 30 years old and has been sick for at
least a year. She leaves a husband and three children, the youngest only about 3 weeks old. Both
Mrs. Scott and her husband are very popular in their community. The funeral will be held Monday at
3 p.m. at the Union church in Whitmore township.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 9 Sep 1894
Mrs. J.W. Scott died at her home northeast of Oreana at 7 o'clock this morning. Deceased
was about 30 years old and has been sick for at least a year. She leaves a husband and three children,
the youngest only about five weeks old. Both Mrs. Scott and her husband are very popular in their
community. The funeral will be held Monday at 11 o'clock at the Union church in Whitmore township.
Decatur Daily Republican, 8 Sep 1894
SCOTT, George W.
Born: __ Aug 1870 in Neodosha, KS
Died: 4 Dec 1958
Buried: Mt. Zion Cem, Mt.Zion, Macon Co, IL
Parents: James Scott and Mary Catherine Black
Married: Margaret M. Lane (b. Feb. 1878 / d. ca 1903)
Children: Lola V. (Scott) Meny
SCOTT, Harriet
Miss Harriet Scott, aged 18, daughter of D.F. Scott died of consumption at 2 o'clock this
morning. Funeral from the Union church Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Decatur Daily Republican, 1 Jul 1890
SCOTT, Margaret M. (Lane)
Born: Feb 1878
Died: abt 1903
Buried:
Parents:
Married: George W. Scott
Children: Lola V. (Scott) Meny
SCOTT, Martha E. "Mattie" (Stuart)
Born: 28 Oct 1857 in Argenta, Macon Co, IL
Died: 4 Mar 1942 in Dalton Cty, Moultrie Co, IL
Buried: Mt. Zion Cem., Macon Co, IL
Parents: Oliver L & Elizabeth (Kile) Stuart
Married: 7 Dec 1884 in Macon Co, IL to Albert C. Scott
Children: Ollie, Lelah & Lula
SCROGGIN, Carter Roland
C. R. SCROGGIN OF HARRISTOWN DIES
In Ill Health for More Than Year
SUIT AGAINST CITY
Farm May Go for Opportunity Home
Carter Roland Scroggin, called "Roe" by his intimate friends, and one of the
best known breeders of Hereford cattle in this part of the country at one time, died at 5:30
o'clock Wednesday afternoon at his home in Harristown. He was sixty-one years old. Mr.
Scroggin had been ill for over a year, suffering from kidney troubles and complications. Only
at intervals was he confined to his bed. Much of the time he was able to ride around over his
farm and neighboring country, and until recently he was a frequent visitor in Decatur. His
weakness prevented him from engaging in any business activities for some time, and he seldom
took any long trips away from home.
Carter R. Scroggin was the last of the third generation of that name, a name
that had been familiar in central Illinois for more than 100 years. His ancestors came from
Kentucky, the first to come being Carter T. Scroggin, who settled in Gallatin County about
1817. He moved to Logan County about 1825, and accumulated a large estate, which was inherited
by his son, Thomas J. Scroggin. Carter R. Scroggin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Scroggin, was born near Mt.
Pulaski in 1860. The family moved to Macon County four years later and settled in Harristown
township, and Carter R. Scroggin has resided in that township ever since. He remained on the
farm until a few years ago when he moved into Harristown to avoid the bad odors from the
Sangamon River.
Mr. Scroggin and Nancy F. Matthews of Blue Mound township were married in
January 1880. No children were born to them, and she is his only living relative. Up to the
time his health failed Mr. Scroggin was actively engaged in farming and breeding high-grade
Hereford cattle. He made a great reputation in that work and was known among breeders
throughout the central west. His father and grandfather had been engaged in the same line of
work. His farm of over 1200 acres is one of the best in central Illinois. Just what will
become of the farm will not be known until his will is offered for probate, but a few years
ago Mr. Scroggin told some friends that it was his intention to leave the big farm as a home
for boys who lacked opportunity.
Mr. Scroggin was a member of the Elks Lodge and of the Harristown Anti-Horse-Thief
Association, but belonged to no other secret or fraternal organizations. He was kind-hearted
and genial and was well-liked by those who knew him. He never started but one lawsuit in his
life, and that was about a year ago, when he started suit for $250,000 against the city in the
circuit court for polluting the Sangamon River with city sewage, and contended that by dumping
the sewage into the river, the city had so polluted the stream that his cattle became affected
by drinking the water; that they kept getting thinner and finally sickened and died. He also
declared that the odors from the river had also affected his own health and forced him to
abandon his home in the country and move into town. That suit is still pending in the court,
the jury having failed to agree, making it necessary to try the case again.
The funeral will be held at 2:30 o'clock Friday afternoon at the family residence
in Harristown. The interment will be in the Harristown cemetery.
Decatur Daily Review, 21 July 1921
SCROGGIN, Rebecca (Birks)
OLD RESIDENT DEAD
Mrs. Thomas J. Scroggin Passes Away at Her Home
ON ONE FARM 30 YEARS
Rebecca Birks, wife of Thomas J. Scroggin, died at the family home, three miles south
of Harristown, at 2:40 o'clock Saturday afternoon, her death being caused by paralysis.
Mrs. Scroggins was 60 years of age and was a native of Logan county. She was a sister
of John V. Birks of Decatur and James Birks, now in the Dakotas. She was married to Thomas Scroggin
on Jan 1, 1857, and since 1864 has made her home with her husband upon a farm in section 28 in
Harristown township. Part of this farm had been the old Lincoln farm, upon which Abraham Lincoln,
spent his boyhodd days and upon which stood the famous Lincoln cabin.
Mrs. Scroggin was a faithful wife and by her efforts assisted her husband in attaining
the position he now holds as one of the wealthiest and most successful farmers in Macon county. Unto
her were born three sons, two now deceased. James Russell died at the age of 20 and Charles Shelby
at the age of 23. Rolla survives to mourn his mother.
Mrs. Scroggins was a faithful member of the Christian church, but a stroke of paralysis
suffered five years ago, and which led to her death, prevented her notive participation in affairs of
her congregation in late years.
The funeral services will be held at family residence at 11 o'clock Monday morning,
conducted by Rev. Mr. Faulders.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 5 Dec 1897
SCROGGIN, Russel
DIED, at his home in Harristown townshiop, ten miles west of Decatur, on Sunday
evening, May 16, 1886, Russel Scroggin, of inflammatory rheumatism. He was twenty years of
age, and a son of T.J. Scroggin.
Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 18 May 1886
The funeral of Russell Scroggins, the young man who died at Harristown the other
day, took place at that village yesterday forenoon. The services were conducted by Rev.
Gilliland and were attended by hundreds of people from the surrounding country. The remains
were interred in Harristown cemetery and the funeral cortege was about the largest ever
witnessed in that vicinity. The deceased was a young man of many excellent traits of
character and was generally respected in the late community.
Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 19 May 1886
SCROGGIN, Thomas J.
T.J. SCROGGIN DIES; ILL ONLY A FEW DAYS
One of the Largest Land Owners of County
DEATH IS A SURPRISE
Erysipelas Preceded by An Attack of Grip
Thomas J. Scroggin died at 10:40 Friday night at his residence, 666 West Decatur street.
His death was caused by erysipelas, following an attack of the grip. He had been suffering somewhat
with kidney trouble, but his condition was not thought at all serious. A week ago last Sunday he
was taken with the grip, and on Wednesday erysipelas suddenly made its appearance in an aggravated
form. The disease developed so rapidly that physicians were powerless to check it. He was
unconscious all day Friday and his death was known to be near.
SHOCK TO FRIENDS
|
His sudden illness and death came as a shock to his many friends. He had been seen about
the streets as usual in his automobile early last week and only a few knew that he was in a serious
condition until the news came that he was dying.
Perhaps no man in Macon county had a wider acquaintance than Thomas J. Scroggin, and
no man was held in higher esteem. In Harristown township, where he lived for many years, there was
perhaps not a man, woman, or half-grown child that did not know him personally. He had friends all
over Macon county and central Illinois, and in the neighborhood in Decatur, where he lived the last
eleven years, the children called him "Uncle Tom" and loved him dearly. He was always fond of
children and nearly every pretty day found him taking a party of little folks out riding in his
automobile. |
BRED FINE CATTLE
He was one of the most prominent men in Macon county. He owned over 1,600 acres of
fine farm land in this county to make a big success of raising fine cattle. He was famous all
over this and adjoining states as a breeder of thoroughbred Hereford cattle and was the first
man in central Illinois to engage extensively in the breeding of thoroughbred Herefords. He
attended all the fine stock shows and was generally chosen as one of the judges. Eleven years
ago he sold one herd for $32,000, and later sold other herds at correspondingly high prices.
BORN NEAR MT. PULASKI
Mr. Scroggin was born near Mt. Pulaski, in Logan county, seventy-two years ago.
His father was a pioneer stock raiser and a good farmer. He remained with his father until he
was twenty-five years old and then he moved to Harristown township and bought a small tract of
land at a low price and began raising stock on his own account. He was successful from the first,
and he invested his profits in land in Macon county. Later the Logan county land was sold and
the proceeds of that sale were put into more Macon county land. At the time of his death Mr.
Scroggin owned over 1,200 acres of rich land in Harristown township and 400 acres in Blue Mound
township, besides other property.
Eleven years ago he retired from active farm life and moved to Decatur, where he
has since made his home at 666 West Decatur street. Mr. Scroggin was twice married. His first
wife died about fifteen years ago. His second wife, whom he married eleven years ago, was Mrs.
Hattie Cass, and she survives him.
He also leaves one son, C. Rollin Scroggin, of Harristown. Three other children
died years ago; John Thomas Scroggin died at the age of one year, Charles Scroggin died at the
age of twenty-three, and Russell Scroggin died at the age of twnenty. He also leaves three
brothers and one sister, L.K. Scroggin, Russell Scroggin, George Scroggin and Mrs. Ellen
Lucas, all of Mt. Pulaski. The oldest brother is overy ninety-three years of age.
HAD A DEER PARK
Several years ago Mr. Scroggin fitted up a deer park on one of his farms, known as
Riverside farm, west of Decatur, and stocked it with deer that he got from J.P. Faris of Niantic,
who brought them from Missouri. Their number increased and at one time he had a large herd. Mr.
Scroggin was a prominent member of the Christian church at Harristown.
FUNERAL
The funeral will be held at 1:30 Sunday afternoon at the residence. Interment will
be at the Harristown cemetery.
Decatur Review, Decatur, IL, Saturday, 21 Jan 1911
SCROGGINS, Charles
Charles Scroggins died Sunday morning at 8 o'clock at the home of his parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Scroggins, near Harristown, of paralysis. The deceased was aged 25 years.
The funeral was held to-day at 10:30 o'clock from the residence. The burial was at the
Harristown cemetery.
Decatur Daily Republican, Decatur, IL, 14 Nov 1892
SCUREMAN, Herman
The funeral of Herman, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Antone Scureman, took place
yesterday forenoon at 9:30 o'clock from St. Patrick's church, Rev. Father Mackin officiating.
The child died of spasms on Monday.
Decatur Morning Review, 9 Jul 1884
SCURLOCK, H.H.
The funeral of Attorney H.H. Scurlock will be held at 2:30 this afternoon at the
residence, 346 South Union street, and will be under the auspices of Macon lodge No. 8, A.F. &
A.M. The services will be conducted by Rev. Mr. Jenney, pastor of the First Presbyterian church,
assisted by Rev. W.H. Penhallegon. The interment will be in Greenwood.
Decatur Review, 26 Oct 1913
SECRIST, Erastus
Born: 15 May 1859 in Piatt Co, IL
Died: 21 Mar 1925 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Monticello, Piatt Co, IL
Parents: Frederick & Minerva (Querry) Secrist
Married: Annabelle Coulson
Children:
SEGAR, Lucien
LUCIEN SEGAR IS DEAD IN OKLAHOMA
Former Decatur Man Victim of Pneumonia
WAS AT KAUFMAN'S
Death is Great Shock to Decatur Friends
Lucien Segan, formerly of Decatur died at 2:30 o'clock Monday morning at his home in
Oklahoma City, Okla. He was twenty-nine years olf last September. His death was caused by pneumonia
following an attack influenza. He was taken ill a week ago last Tuesday.
|
Mr. Segar was born in Terre Haute, Ind., Sept 15, 1889. He came to Decatur when a
boy and for a a number of years was connected with the clothing store of his uncle, Aaron Kaufman, in
Decatur. He developed into one of the best advertising men in central Illinois, and about five years
ago he went to Nashville, Tenn., and took a position as advertising manager of a big store. A better
position was offered him in the same line of work in a big department store in Oklahoma City and he
accepted it. |
MOTHER LEAVES
His mother, Mrs. H.D. Segar, on learning of his serious illness, went to Oklahoma City last
Wednesday. His father and sister, Miss Klare Segar started for Oklahoma City Sunday. The death of
Mr. Segar was a great shock to his many friends in Decatur, for he was one of the most popular young
men during his residence here. He was a charter member of the Iroquois club and was also a member of
Decatur lodge No. 401, B.P.O.E.
LEAVES TWO CHILDREN
He is survived by his wife and two children, Dorothy and Lucien Segar, Jr. He also
leaves his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry D. Segar of Decatur. He was a nephew of Aaron Kaufman and Mrs.
William Wolf of Decatur, Miss Rachel Segar, Elias Segar, Jacob Segar and Solomon Segar of Indianapolis
and Simon Segar of Detroit, and a grandson of Mrs. Fannie Kaufman of Decatur.
The body will be brought to Decatur and taken to the Moran chapel. Arrangements for
the funeral have not been completed as it is not yet known just when the body will arrive here. Mrs.
Segar was formerly Miss Hazel Foster of Decatur.
Decatur Review, 6 Jan 1919
The body of Lucien Segar arrived from Oklahoma City at 3 o'clock Wednesday afternoon and
was taken to Moran's chapel. The funeral will be held at 2:30 o'clock Thursday afternoon at the
family residence, 1060 West Wood street. The interment will be in Fairlawn cemetery.
Decatur Review, 8 Jan 1919
SEITZ, Jacob
DIED AT SULLIVAN
Jacob Seitz Expired While on a Visit to Neighboring Town
Jacob Seitz died on Monday at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Conrad
Enterline, of Sullivan, while there on a visit. He was 88 years of age and was one
of the old settlers of Macon county. The remains have been removed to Oakley and the
funeral will occur there this morning at 10 o'clock. The burial will be at Pleasant
Hill cemetery.
Mr. Seitz was born in Cumberland county, Pa., Oct 105, 1814. He worked
on a farm and afterward learned the tailor trade which he followed for sixteen years.
He then went to farmin and in 1857 he came to Illinois and settled in Oakley township,
Macon county, and lived there ever since. He retired from active life and lived with
his son, D.A. Seitz.
June 21, 1836, Mr. Seitz was married to Barbara Nickey, who died September
4, 1874. In August 1878 Mr. Seitz was married to Mrs. Mary Ann Baker. There were no
children by the second marriage. The sons and daughters by the first marriage surviving
are Mrs. Conrad Enterline of Sullivan, D.W. Seitz of Bement, Jeremiah L. Seitz of McPherson
county, Kan.; James T. Seitz of Knox county, Ill.; D.A. Seitz of Oakley, William W. Seitz
of Hammond, J.A. Seitz of Texas.
Decatur Herald, 14 Nov 1902
SEITZ, Mary A.
Charles and Henry Baker who were called here by the fatal illness of
their mother, have returned to their home near Hennessey, Okla.
The funeral of Mary A. Seitz was held from the residence of her son,
Edward Baker, Fraiday morning. Rev. Fields of Decatur preached the funeral sermon
at the Garver church and the interment was at the Garver cemetery. The pall bearers
were W.F. Coulter, D.A. Seita, R.A. Connett, P.A. Shambaugh, Abraham Hiser and J.E.
Huff.
Decatur Herald, 5 May 1903
SEITZ, Simon, Sr.
Simon P. Seitz, Sr., died at midnight Wednesday at his home, 1106 North
Union street. He was nearly 87 years old. His death had been expected for some time
as his extreme age made his illness the more serious.
Mr. Seitz was one of the old settlers of Macon county. He was born in
Cumberland county, Pa. He came to Illinois in 1854 and bought a farm in Macon county.
His farm was four miles northwest of the city and is just south of the Lutz place. He
lived there till about eight years ago. Then he came to Decatur and bought his present
home.
He leaves three children, Simon P. Seitz, Frank Seitz, both of Decatur, and
Mrs. Sarah Hizer of Oakley township.
The Daily Review (Decatur), 14 Jan 1904
The funeral of the late Simon Seitz, Sr., was held at 10 o'clock Friday
from the residence of his son, Simon P. Seitz, 1106 North Union street. The Rev. Barber
officiated and the music was by a quartet composed of Mrs. William Kaylor, Miss Lucile
Ferris, Fred Munson and Oran Gulick.
The services opened with the singing of the hymn, "Nearer My God to Thee,"
by the singing of "Rock of Ages." The minister offered a prayer and there There was a
scripture reading followed was a short funeral sermon and the services closed with the
singing of "Jesus Lover of My Soul.". The burial was at the Wyckles' cemetery west of
the city and the pall bearers were V. Lewis, A.J. Trimmer, W.Butts, Asa Gulick, E. Kyle
and H. Ferris.
Decatur Herald, 19 Jan 1904
SELBY, Marjorie (Goodpasture)
Born: 21 Aug. 1902 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 27 Oct 1954 in Chicago, Cook Co, IL
Buried: North Fork Cem., Macon Co, IL
Parents: George W. & Dora (Andrews) Goodpasture
Married: 1922 in Macon Co, IL to Benjamin M. Selby
SELLERS, Amy M.
Amy M Sellers was born August 4, 1836, near Mooresville, Morgan County, Indiana,
died June 17, 1883 in DeWitt County, Illinois. She was the daughter of Lot M (Maris) and
Eunice (Haydock) Hadley. Her mother has gone before many years ago; one sister and one
brother has passed over. She was the wife of Robert Y Sellers; they lived in Morgan county,
near Monrovia, for some years, then removed to Macon County, Illinois, fourteen year ago, and
this Spring sold their farm, making arrangement to go west in September when they got their
crop off, but death came and took Amy away, leaving children and husband to mourn the loss of a
mother and companion. She was buried in the cemetery on Friends Creek, two and a half miles
southeast of where she died, on the 19th of June, 1883. She was converted many years ago, and
lived a Christian life, trusting in her Savior.
From unknown newspaper, submitted by: Jane Lincicome
SELLS, Peter
Pete Sells died of pneumonia on Sunday at 11 o’clock at the age of 56 years.
He had made his home in Decatur nearly all of his life, being a son of Abe Sells. He was a
barkeeper and in years gone by he was pointed out as one of the characters of the town.
In the latter years of his life he quieted down to a marked degree and consequently he was
seldom heard of. His illness extended over a period of two weeks.
The Herald Despatch, Decatur IL, 3 Mar 1897
SEXTON, Jane P.
Mrs. Jane P. Sexton, aged seventy-five years, died about midnight last night, at
the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Jane Willey, No. 519 North College street. The funeral
will take place to-morrow morning at nine o’clock from the residence. The remains will be taken
to Assumption for interment.
Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 20 Apr 1886
Short funeral services were held yesterday morning at the residence of Mrs. Wiley,
over the remains of her late mother, Mrs. Jane Sexton, who died on Monday evening. The services
were conducted by Rev. W.H. Prestley, and the remains were taken to Assumption for interment.
Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 22 Apr 1886
SEYBOLD, Frederika
MRS. SEYBOLD OF MAROA IS DEAD
Mrs. Frederika Seybold died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Emma Sterling. She was born
October 8, 1837 in Wurttemburg, Germany and came to America at the age of 17. She was united
in marriage to Louis Seybold of Steubenville, Ohio in 1855. Mr. Seybold died June 6, 1902.
Mrs. Seybold was the mother of 12 children, 10 of who are still living. She leaves 27
grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. Her body will be taken to Atchinson, Kansas, her
former home, to be buried there.
Daily Review, Tues, Nov 22, 1910, p. 11
SHA-BO-NE
Death of Sha-bo-ne
The Grundy County Herald announces the death of this renowned Indian
Chief. He died at his wigwam, near Morris, on the 18th last. He had been indisposed for
several days, but on the day before his death had gone fishing, and got a wetting from which
he took a severe cold, causing his death in twenty-four hours. He was about ninety years
old. Upon his death being announced in Morris, the bells were tolled, and the citizens
generally attended his funeral.
The name of Sha-bo-ne is familiar to the people of Northern Illinois. He
was a true man, and on numerous occasions exhibited a friendship for the early settlers
of this county, for which his memory will be venerated. He was a Pottawattomie, and was
one of the leading chiefs of his tribe. In 1812, his tribe took the field against the
United States, but it was against his counsels. Instances are related, even when he
was fighting against us, of acts of kindness to our people. Since the war of 1812, he
has been a fast friend of the whites and has rendered them great service on various
occasions. The mark of respect on the part of the citizens of Morris, on the occasion
of his death, was an evidence of the respect in which he was held. He preferred to
remain here and die by the graves of his braves, to following his tribe to their new
hunting grounds at the base of the Rocky Mountains; and though none of his people
were here to bury him at his death, his remains were interred with due honors by
his pale faced friends.
Illinois State Chronicle (Decatur), 4 Aug 1859
SHACKLEFORD, Mary J.
Mrs. Mary Shackleford died at 3 o'clock Thursday morning at her home, 741 West Macon
street. The deceased was 44 years of age. The funeral was held Friday afternoon at 1:45 o'clock.
A short service was held at the residence of Rev. Rhorer, and the body was interred at Salem
cemetery.
Weekly Herald Despatch, 26 August 1893
SHADDOCK, James
Born: 17 Aug 1848 in Caroline Co, VA
Died: 6 Jan 1931 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Macon Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: James A. & Anna C. (Rolloms) Shaddock
Married: 8 Mar 1877 in Macon Co, IL to Jemima J. Atteberry
Children: Lulu, Maude, Rena, James F., Bertha & Rolla Edward
SHADDOCK, James Franklin
Born: Jan 1883 in Macon, Macon Co, IL
Died: 4 Mar 1922 in Phoenix, AZ
Buried: Columbus, Bartholomew Co, IN
Parents: James & Jemima J. (Atteberry) Shaddock
Married:
Children:
SHADDOCK, Jemima J. (Atteberry)
Born: 28 Sep 1853 in Macon, Macon Co, IL
Died: 12 May 1925 in Macon, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Macon Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Thomas & Syrena (Florey) Atteberry
Married: 8 Mar 1877 in Macon Co, IL to James Shaddock
Children: Lulu, Maude, Rena, James F., Bertha & Rolla Edward
SHADDOCK, Rena E.
Born: abt 1880
Died: 31 Mar 1881
Buried: Long Grove Cem., Macon Co, IL
Parents: James & Jemima (Atteberry) Shaddock
SHADE, Louise
The funeral of Louise, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.P. Shade, took place
Saturday afternoon and was conducted by Rev. Prestley. There was a large attendance of friends,
there being nearly 40 vehicles in the cortege.
Decatur Daily Republican, 30 May 1887
Of whooping cough at 3:15 p.m. on Friday May 27, 1887, the infant daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. W.P. Shade, age 9 months.
Saturday Herald (Decatur), 4 June 1887
SHAFFER, Adeline
Mrs. Adeline Shaffer, died Sunday at 7:45 p.m. at the home of her son in law, C.H.
Seip, 337 Stuart avenue. She was born in York County, Pennsylvania on December 18, 1850, and
had been an invalid for 18 years. She leaves a son, William Shaffer, and a daughter, Mrs. Anna
Seip, both of Decatur, a brother, Jacob Eicholtz of Orlana(sic). She also leaves four grandchildren,
Mrs. Ida Wilkin, Mrs. Bessie Muzzy, Clarence Seip and Earl Shaffer and two great great grandchildren,
Trevor Muzzy and Clarence Seip, Jr., all of Decatur. She was a member of the First United
Brethren church. Funeral services will be held in the Union Church, near Oreana, Tuesday
afternoon at two o'clock.
Decatur Herald, 28 Oct 1928
SHAFFER, Frank
Frank Shaffer died Sunday morning at the home of his son, Rev. Calvin
Shaffer of Pleasant Plains, Ill. The body will be sent to Argenta Tuesday for burial.
Mr. Shaffer was an old soldier, a Modern Woodman and a member of the C.P. church. Funeral
services will be held at the C. P. church Tuesday. Interment will be in the Friends
Creek cemetery.
He leaves one son, Rev. Frank Shaffer of Pleasant Plains, four daughters,
Mrs. Charles Sellars of Clinton, Mrs. Albert Pierson of Missouri, Mrs. Perry Parr of
Cisco and Mrs. Frank Hommon of Argenta. His wife died about three weeks ago.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 27 Feb 1911
SHAFFER, Lucretia J. (Querry)
Born: 1831 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 21 Jan 1898 near Boody, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Florey Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: George & Mary A. (Florey) Querry
Married: 1850 to John A. Shaffer
Children:
SHANNON, John
John Shannon died Monday morning at 7 o’clock. Mr. Shannon had been sick
for some time. He was a member of the Christian church, also a member of Fred Spooner
post, G.A.R. No 294. His brother, William Shannon of Ohio, was with him at death.
He leaves a wife and four children, namely, Mrs. John Clymer, Mrs. Charles
Mahoney and William Shannon of Argenta and Charles Shannon of Amarillo, Tex. Interment
will be in Cumberland Cemetery.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 22 Jan 1907, pg. 9
SHARTEL, William W.
DIED ~ At his residence on North Main street, in this city on Sunday, January 10th,
William W. Shartel, at the age of forty-five. He leaves a wife and eight children to mourn his
death. The funeral is to take place to-morrow from the residence of the deceased on North Main
street, the Rev. Wm. Stevenson officiating.
Daily Republican, Decatur, IL, 11 Jan 1875
SHAVER, Lelah (Patterson)
Mrs. Lelah Shaver, for many years a resident of Decatur, died Sunday at her home in
Jacksonville, Fla. She was forty-five years old. Mrs. Shaver's maiden name was Miss Lelah Patterson.
She was born in Decatur, Oct. 10, 1882. She and Ezra E.Shaver were married in Mountain Grove, Mo., on
Thanksgiving day, 1900. Most of her early life was spent in Decatur. During the last twenty years her
home has been in Jacksonville, Fla. She was a member of the Methodist church there. She is survived
by her husband and two sons, Eugene and Morris Shaver. She also leaves a sister, Mrs. J.W. Carter of
621 Macon street, Decatur, and a brother, Edward J. Patterson of New York City. The body will arrive
in Decatur Tuesday and will be taken to Dawson & Wikoff, funeral directors, to await the completion
of funeral arrangements.
Decatur Review, 21 Nov 1927
SHAY, Mary
Mrs. Mary Shay, wife of John Shay, of Long Creek township, died yesterday, of
cancer. She was fifty-eight years old, and leaves a husband and two children. The funeral
will take place at 10 o’clock to-morrow morning, from St. Patrick’s Catholic church.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 4 Mar 1886
The funeral of Mrs. Mary Shay will take place at ten o’clock from St. Patrick’s
Catholic church.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 5 Mar 1886
SHEETS, Margaret (Swartz)
FELL UNCONSCIOUS IN THE YARD
Mrs. Margaret Sheets Victim of Heart Disease; Nearly Sixty
Mrs. Margaret Sheets, wife on Andrew Sheets, formerly of Decatur, died at 9 o'clock
Thursday night at the family home, three miles east of Decatur. Her death was caused by heart
disease. Mrs. Sheets had been about her household duties as usual during the day. About six
o'clock while she was out in the yard she suddenly became unconscious and fell to the ground.
She was carried into the house and a physician summoned, but nothing could be done for her and
she never regained consciousness. She would have been sixty years old next month.
Mrs. Sheets was born in Luxemburg, Germany, July 16, 1856. With her parents she
came to America when she was only nine months old. The family lived in Decatur before moving
to the country residence four of five years ago.
Besides her husband Mrs. Sheets is survived by four brothers, John Swartz, Jacob
Swartz and Nicholas Swartz of Decatur, and Matthew Swartz of Cambridge, Kan. Her children are
all dead.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 2 Jun 1916, pg. 3
The funeral of Mrs. Andrew Sheets will be held at 2 o'clock this afternoon at the
family home, two and a half miles northeast of Decatur. The services will be conducted by Rev.
J.H. Cozad of Decatur. The interment will be in the Brush College cemetery.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 4 Jun 1916, pg. 23
SHELLY, Jesse, W.
Born: 17 July 1891
Died: 26 Dec 1969 in IL
Buried: Mt. Gilead Cem, Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Adis L. Shelly and Anna Webb
Married: Mary Elizabeth Lane
Children: Lyle G. Shelly
SHELLY, Mary Elizabeth
Born: 26 Aug 1897 in Moultrie Co, IL
Died: 21 Jul 1988 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Mt. Gilead Cem, Decatur, IL
Parrents: James Edward Lane and Mary Lacora Sullivan
Married: Jesse W. Shelly
Children: Lyle G. Shelly
SHENEMAN, Eliza Hannah
Mrs. Eliza Sheneman died at her home in Warrensburg at 9:45 Saturday morning
after a week's illness with pneumonia. The body was brought to the Dawson and Wikoff funeral
home a short time after death occurred.
Mrs. Sheneman was born Apr. 24, 1856, in Illinois. She moved to Warrensburg
thirty years ago from Latham. Her husband, Stephen F. Sheneman died fourteen years ago. She
is survived by the following children: Mrs. Anna May Glenn of St. Louis, Mo.; Alonzo of Los
Angeles, Cal.; Cecil H. of Los Angeles, Cal.; William F. of Warrensburg and Roy of Cheyenne,
Wyo.; and eight grand children.
Mrs. Sheneman was a member of the Methodist church and of the Illini chapter of
the Eastern Star No. 813.
Decatur Review, 31 Mar 1928
Mrs. Eliza Sheneman - Funeral services will be held Monday afternoon at 2:30 in
the Methodist church at Warrensburg. Burial will be in the Illini cemetery at Warrensburg.
Decatur Review, 1 Apr 1928
SHEPHERD, Charles
The remains of Charles Shepherd, aged 29, who died recently at Kansas City, Mo.,
were brought to Decatur and interred in Spangler's Cemetery, east of the city, on Sunday. The
deceased was a stepson of C.H. Clark, and a half brother of Mrs. Samuel Funk, of this city.
Decatur Daily Republican, Decatur, IL, 14 Aug 1882
SHEPHERD, Emily "Amy" (Florey)
Born: 5 May 1808 in VA
Died: 22 Mar 1852
Buried: Spangler Cemetery
Parents: John & Mary (Ott) Flora
Married: #1 2 Dec 1828 in Shelby Co (Macon Co), IL
Married: #2 20 Jun 1841 in Macon Co, IL to William Sheppard
Children: Laticia Sheppard, Mary Sheppard, Jane Sheppard & Sarah Sheppard
SHERMAN, Anna
The funeral of Mrs. Anna Sherman will be held at 10 o'clock Thursday morning from
St. Isadore's Catholic church in Lake City. The burial will be at St. Isadore's cemetery.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 13 Apr 1904
SHERMAN, Catherine
Born: 1787 in OH
Died: 16 Feb 1863 in Piatt Co, IL
Buried: Ater Cem
Parents:
Married:
Children:
SHERMAN, Peter
Born: 9 Sep 1787 in PA
Died: 16 Nov 1870 in Macon Co, IL
Buried: Ater Cem, Piatt Co, IL
Parents:
Married:
Children:
SHLAUDEMAN, Caroline
The death of Mrs. Caoline Shlaudeman, wife of Alderman Shlaudeman, occurred at
the family residence in the fourth ward this (Saturday) morning at 3 o'clock, after a brief
illness. The deceased had been in failing health for several years, but was up town shopping
nine days ago. She contracted a severe cold and died of pneumonia. Mrs. Shlaudeman was a
native of Germany, and came to Indiana when a girl. She became the wife of Henry Shlaudeman,
and has resided in Decatur since 1857. She died in the 48th year of her age. The surviving
children are Frank and Henry Shlaudeman and Lille and Maudie Shlaudeman. The funeral will
occur on Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the residence.
Decatur Daily Republican, 31 Mar 1883
The Decatur Public Library was closed, yesterday afternoon from 1 to 4 o'clock,
in respect to the late Mrs. Henry Shlaudeman, whose husband is a member of the board of
directors.
There was a very brief session of the city council last night, only the monthly
pay rolls receiving attention. The council adjourned to Wednesday night, in respect to Ald.
Shlaudeman, whose wife was interred on yesterday afternoon.
AT REST
Rev. D.P. Bunn conducted the funeral of the late Mrs. Caroline Shlaudeman, wife
of Alderman Shlaudeman, which took place from the family residence in the fourth ward on
yesterday afternoon. In the presence of a large number of sympathizing friends the clergyman
spoke of the departed as a good woman, a kind mother and loving wife, and paid a deserving
tribute to her many excellent qualities. The remains were interred in Greenwood cemetery,
being followed to the grave by a long funeral cortege. The pall-bearers were Messrs. Philip
Riebsamen, Joseph Michl, Fred. Pahmeyer, Louis Westerman, Charles Ruehl, of Forsyth, Jacob
Kessler, E.C. Bassey and Fred. Kuny. The Public Library was closed from 1 to 4 p.m. yesterday
in respect to Alderman Shlaudeman, who is a member of the board of directors, and but little
business was transacted at the meeting of the council last night, the bulk of the business
being deferred until Wednesday evening, as a mark of respect to the bereaved brother alderman.
Decatur Daily Republican, 3 Apr 1883
SHOCKEY, Annie Belle
At the family residence on West Wood street on Tuesday morning, September
6th, 1882, at 6 o'clock, of consumption, Annie Belle, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.W.
Shockey, aged 18 years.
The deceased was a high school pupil and had been promoted to the fourth
year class. She had been afflicted for many months but not until about June 1st was
she considered in a critical condition. At that time her affliction developed into quick
consumption of which she has fallen a victim.
Saturday Herald (Decatur), 9 Sep 1882
SHOCKLEY, Mary
GRANDMOTHER OF SOLDIER DEAD
Mrs. Mary Shockley Expires at Home of Daughter
Mrs. Mary Shockley died at 3 o'clock Tuesday morning at the home of her daughter,
Mrs. Ed Hendricks, 147 East Eldorado street. She was the grandmother of "Hoppy" Hendricks, who
has just returned from the war.
She was born August 16, 1834, in Ireland, and came to America in 1861. She had
lived in and around Pana since then, until six years ago when she came to make her home with her
daughter in December. She is survived by her daughter, one grandson and one brother.
The body will be taken to Pana for burial Thursday morning. The funeral sevice
will be held at the Catholic church in Pana. Burial will be in the Pana cemetery.
Decatur Review, 9 November 1893
The body of Mrs. Mary Shockley will be taken to Pana and the funeral will be held
in the Catholic church there at 10 o'clock Thursday morning.
Decatur Review, 18 December 1918
The body of Mrs. Mary Shockley arrived here (Pana) Thursday from Decatur and the
funeral was conducted at St. Patrick's church yesterday morning with Rev. Fr. Moroney officiating.
The pallbearers were John Stanton, Edward Sweeney, Frank Yenck, L.J. Lynch, and Thomas Fogarty.
The burial was in Calvary cemetery.
Decatur Review, 20 December 1918
SHOEMAKER, David
David Shoemaker, aged 83 years, an old soldier living with his two sons in a two room
house on the Maffit bridge road just south of the Sand Creek crossing, two miles south of Decatur,
was burned to death at noon Tuesday when through some unknown cause the house caught fire.
Mr. Shoemaker was alone in the house at the time, his two sons, Edward and George being
in town at work, and it is supposed by his sons that the house took fire from a match with which
the father had lighted his pipe and carelessly dropped among the papers which he was reading.
The fire was first discovered by Mrs. Robert Wayt, living some distance south of the
Shoemaker house, and about the same time by J.R. Dlekeman who was passing along the road. But before
either could reach the house the fire was beyond all control and the building and contents were
totally destroyed. The body of Mr. Shoemaker was found later buried under the burning timbers in
the basement of the house.
In addition to the two sons, George and Edward, Mr. Shoemaker is survived by a daughter,
Mrs. Emma Hammond of South Colfax street.
The old gentleman in other years was a familiar figure about the streets of Decatur
where he frequently walked dress in his old soldier uniform. He had lived in the neighborhood of the
place where he met his death for forty-three years and was well known to many both in that neighborhood
and in the city.
Published in The Decatur Review, Decatur IL, 18 Nov 1919. Details of the funeral
were published in The Decatur Review, 20 Nov 1919, pg. 16.
SHORB, Charles A.
The body of Charles A. Shorb of Decatur, who died in Chicago Sunday morning
following a surgical operation, arrived Monday evening and was taken to the Monson undertaking
establishment and prepared for burial.
Mr. Shorb was born in Decatur, March 20, 1889, and had lived here all his life.
He never married, but remained at home and cared for his parents to whom he was greatly devoted
until they passed away. For several years he was employed as a machinist at the Wabash
locomotive shops. During the last few years he was employed at the Mueller Manufacturing
company’s plant. He was well known and had a host of friends in Decatur. He was a member of
the Moose lodge, the Eagles lodge, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Veterans of the World
War.
Mr. Shorb had been in failing health for some time. Several weeks ago he went
to Chicago for treatment. He returned home for a few days and went back to Chicago about two
weeks ago. He is survived by his sisters, Mrs. Marshall Pollock, Mrs. J.J. Fickes and Mrs.
Margie B. Miller, all of Decatur, and a brother John Shorb of Hammond Ind. He was a nephew of
Will H. Shorb and Mrs. Phil Mueller of Decatur. Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Mueller were with him
in Chicago at the time of his death.
Decatur Review, Decatur IL, 9 Mar 1926
SHORB, Wm. H.
The news of the death of W.H. Shorb at Washington, D.C. was received in Decatur
Monday night. The message came to a son, Will Shorb, of the firm of Field & Shorb.
Squire Shorb had been in poor health for a long time past. More than a year ago
he went to the soldier’s home at Danville and from there was transferred to a hospital at
Washington, D.C. Will Shorb ordered the body brought to Decatur and the burial will be in this
city.
W.H. Shorb was born at Gettysburg, Pa., April 6, 1829, and lived there until 27
years old. He at first served as an apprentice at the cabinet maker’s trade but later opened a
buggy and carriage manufacturing business. In 1855 he went to Greencastle, Pa., where he carried
on a more extensive business until 1869.
In 1861 Mr. Shorb enlisted as a member of Company C, Second Pennsylvania volunteers,
and assisted forming the company of which he was orderly sergeant.
Later when his term had expired he enlisted in Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania regiment
for three years service. In 1862, while attempting to destroy Pocotaligo Bridge he received a
wound in the neck. He was made orderly sergeant, sergeant major, second lieutenant and later
first lieutenant.
In front of Petersburg, he was wounded in the shoulder by a piece of shell and was
in the hospital for sixty days. He rejoined his regiment in front of Petersburg and was placed
in command of his company, but was disabled and was given the position of regimental quartermaster
which he held until mustered out of the service in January, 1865.
While on a furlough after being wounded, Mr. Shorb married at Harrisburg, Pa., in
August, 1864, Miss Mary Magdlena Zarger.
After the war he located in Harrisburg where he engaged in the manufacture of
agricultural implements. In 1867 he came to Decatur and carried on a contracting business until
1871 when ill health forced him to abandon that occupation. For seven years Mr. Shorb served as
superintendent of the streets and then went to Lafayette, Ind. and acted as secretary and manager
of a street railway which was owned by Decatur men, but which was sold in about a year. Mr. Shorb
came back to Decatur and was made overseer of the poor.
For a number of years Mr. Shorb served as a justice of the peace, but before his
last term had expired he was compelled to retire on account of ill health.
He is survived by five children. They are Valentine Shorb of Salt Lake City, Utah;
Lazarus Shorb of Decatur; Mrs. Phil Mueller of Decatur; Mrs. C.A. Martin of Ithaca, N.Y. and
Will Shorb of Decatur.
The time of the funeral will depend upon the time of the arrival of the body in this
city, and will be announced later.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 9 Jul 1901, pg. 7
SHRIDE, Eloise
Eloise Shride, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ross Shride, died at 2:30 Sunday morning,
after an illness of one day. The family has reisded in Decatur only a few months, coming here from
Moweaqua. They have made their home with E.M.Smich, with whom Mr. Shride is associated in the real
estate business. The body was taken to Moweaqua Monday morning and the funeral was held there in the
afternoon.
Decatur Review, 5 Dec 1910
SHRIVER, John
John A. Shriver, whose serious illness has been noted in these columns, passed
away in death Tuesday afternoon at his home at 1156 North Main street. The deceased was
afflicted with lung trouble. He leaves a widow and three children. They are W.G. Shriver,
Charles M. Shriver and Mrs. Alice Williams. Mr. Shriver was a member of Dunham Post 141,
G.A.R.
The Daily Republican, Decatur IL, 23 Oct 1895
SHRUM, Eliza J.
Mrs. Eliza Shrum - Funeral services at 1:30 o'clock Friday afternoon in the Boiling
Springs church. Interment in Boiling Springs cemetery. The body will arrive from Freemont, Neb.,
Friday morning at 11:20 o'clock and will be taken to the Monson funeral home. Mrs. Shrum was the
sister of Mrs. William Baum of Decatur.
Daily Review (Decatur), 8 Sept 1927
SHRUM, William B.
William B. Shrum, a veteran of the late war, died last night near Bearsdale. He
served in the war as a member of Co.E, 160th Ohio Infantry, and was a member of A.L. Post 169,
G.A.R. at Crab Orchard, Neb. The members of Dunham Post, this city, will attend Comrade Shrum's
funeral on Thursday at 10 a.m.
Daily Republican (Decatur), 11 February 1896
The burial of the late William B. Shrum will take place tomorrow at 10 a.m. not
Friday as incorrectly stated in the Review this morning. Comrades of Dunham Post will
meet at 9 a.m. to-morrow at the Post Hall to attend the vurial at Boiling Springs church.
Daily Republican (Decatur), 12 February 1896
The last will of the late William B. Shrum was filed for probate in the county
court today. The estate consists of 160 acres of land in Chance county, Neb, and personal property
valued at $300. All the property is left to the widow, Mrs. E.J. Shrum.
Daily Republican (Decatur), 21 February 1896
Executrix' Notice - Estate of William B. Shrum, deceased
The undersigned having been appointed executrix of the estate of William B. Shrum,
late of the county of Macon and state of Illinois, deceased, hereby give notice that she will
appear before the April term on the first Monday in April next, at which time all persons having
claims against said estate are notified and requested to attend for the purposes of having the
same adjusted. All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment to
the undersigned.
Dated this 22nd day of February, 1896
Signed, Eliza J. Shrum, Executrix
Daily Republican (Decatur), 22 February 1896
Paid $1,000 Life Insurance
William B. Shrum the old veteran who died recently, was a member of Bearsdale Lodge,
No. 1597, Modern Woodmen of America, and in that organization caaried a life insurance policy to
the amount of $1,000, payable to the widow, Mrs. Eliza J. Shrum. Mr. Shrum died March 10. Today
the clerk of the Bearsdale Camp, Rev. O.B. Huston, by the director of the head banker, paid the
widow $1,000, the full face of the policy. This sum somes to the widow in a time of need, and is
thankfully received by her. There are about 38 members of the Bearsdale Camp of Woodmen.
Daily Republican (Decatur), 27 March 1896
FINAL REPORT
In the county court Eliza J. Shrum, executrix of the estate of the late William B.
Shrum and Anna C. Bricker, executrix of the estate of the late Lewis E. Bricker, both filed their
final reports and were discharged.
Daily Review (Decatur), 8 July 1899
SHUEY, Rev. J.F.
The funeral services of Rev. J. F. Shuey, who died Saturday morning at 3:35
o’clock, was held at the United Brethren church Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock. The
services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Barton, the local pastor. He was assisted by Rev. Mr.
Boggess and Rev. Mr. Arbogast of Decatur, Rev. J. Crowder of Bethany and Rev. Mr. Dermond
of this place. The scripture reading, text, song and all arrangements were selected and
completed by Mr. Shuey prior to his illiness.
Decatur Review, Decatur IL, 30 Oct 1925, pg. 20
SHULL, Ellen L.
Born: 28 September 1838 in Decatur, Macon Co., IL at the old Montgomery Homestead
Died: 5 December 1927 in Decatur Macon Co, IL at 429 West Prairie Avenue
Buried:
Parents: Mr. and Mrs. James F. Montgomery
Married: 22 September 1858 to Richard Wesley Shull
Survivors: Son, Frank R. Shull and brother, R.R. Montgomery
SHULTZ, Elizabeth
DIED, Monday morning, March 27, Mrs. Elizabeth Shultz, aged 80 years. The
deceased was the mother of Mrs. B.H. Cassell and Mrs. J.L. Peake, and had resided in Decatur
since 1835.
Decatur Republican, Thursday, 30 Mar 1876
SHUPP, Samuel
Samuel Shupp, one of the early settlers of Decatur and a well known citizen,
died last night at 7 o’clock at his home, 838 West Wood street. The cause of death was
kidney trouble, a complaint with which Mr. Shupp had suffered for some time past. He had
not been in good health for a year or more, but was able to be about and attend to his
business. Just five weeks ago he was taken seriously ill and since that time he was confined
to his bed. His condition did not improve and the members of his family yesterday realized
that there was little hope for his recovery.
Samuel Shupp was one of the oldest grocers of the city. He was born in York
county, Pa, June 28, 1832, and was therefore nearly 67 years old. When a boy he moved with
his parents to Cumberland county, Pa, where he was raised and lived until a young man. He
came to Decatur in 1855 and had resided here ever since, with the exception of the time when
he served in the civil war. He was married in Decatur on April 30, 1857, to Miss Margaret
Maffit, sister of D. A. Maffit, and is survived by his wife and one daughter, Miss Alice
Shupp. He also had one other daughter Cella, wife of R. H. Buchanan, who died six years ago.
He leaves a brother in Arizona and two sisters in Pennsylvania. Mr. Shupp was widely known
in Decatur and was held in high respect. He followed the business of a grocer for 25 years
and therefore became widely acquainted. For several years past his store was located on West
Main street, just west of Church street, and previously he had a store on North Main Street.
During the civil war Mr. Shupp served for three and a half years as first sergeant of company
G, 116th Illinois volunteers. Since before the war he resided at the place where he died.
The funeral will be held Sunday afternoon at 4 o’clock from the residence. The
services will be conducted by Rev. W.H. Penhallegon, pastor of the First Presbyterian church,
and the burial will be at Greenwood cemetery.
The Daily Republican, Decatur IL, 5 May 1899
NOTE: A description of the funeral was published in The Daily Republican,
Decatur Illinois, 8 May 1899.
SHUTTER, Felix
Of inflammation of the bowels, at his home in McPherson, Kansas, on Thursday, Oct. 7,
1886, Felix Shutter, aged 41 years.
The deceased was a son of Samuel Shutter, of Oreana, and a brother of Mrs. M. Farner,
of Decatur. He was a veteran of the late war, having served in the 116th Ill. He removed to Kansas
from Macon County about 15 years ago. His widow and one child, a son aged 13 years, survive him.
Saturday Herald, Decatur, IL, Saturday, 16 Oct 1886
SIBLEY, Dr. Benjamin F.
Dr. Benjamin F. Sibley, who for the past thirty-six years has been engaged in the
practice of medicine in Decatur, passed away in death at his home, 411 North Morgan street, a
few minutes before ? o’clock Monday night, Jan 9. His death was due to complications resulting
from a fall received several weeks ago in alighting from a street car.
Dr. Sibley was born in Ashford Wi???? County, Conn, April 8, 1827. His family was
of Scotch origin. Dr. Sibley spent the days of his youth up in his father’s farm, and began his
education in the district schools of the neighborhood. When 16 years old he entered the W????
academy, graduating from that institution two years later. He decided to enter the ranks of the
medical profession and began fitting himself for that work by study in the office of his brother,
Dr. Louis Sibley, who was then engaged in the practice of his profession on Long Island N.Y. After
three years of study in his brother’s office he entered the Berlshire Medical college, from which
he graduated at the age of 23.
Dr. Sibley began to practice his profession at Ithaca, N.Y. where he remained for
five years. He moved from there to Erie, Pa., and spent three years. In 1856 he arrived in
Decatur, and in 1862 built the home in which he has ever since resided.
When the war broke out Dr. Sibley enlisted as surgeon of the Twenty-first Illinois
infantry, General Grant’s first regiment. After the close of the war he returned to Decatur and
took up the practice of his profession. He was one of the twelve veterans who organized the first
Grand Army post, known as Post No.1. When Dunham post was organized he also became a member of that.
In 1850 Dr. Sibley and Miss Fannie Cole, daughter of Asa Cole of Genese, N.Y. were
married. To this union were born five children: Mrs. Mary E. Parker died at the age of 36; Jennie
died in infancy; the remaining children are William G. Sibley, Frank Sibley and Fannie wife of
William S. Slater. He also leaves three grandchildren.
Dr. Sibley was a kind and indulgent father. He loved his home and family and as was
there that his many fine traits of character were always in evidence. He was honored by the members
of his profession and all who knew him held him in the highest esteem. He was a familiar figure
on the streets, being actively engaged in the practice of his profession when he met with the
accident which later caused his death.
The time and place of the funeral will be announced later. The members of his
profession will meet at 11:00 o’clock this forenoon at the office of Dr. H.M. Wood, Pa?field
block to arrange for attending the funeral.
The Daily Review, 10 Jan 1899, pg. 2
SIGLER, Reuben
Reuben Sigler, an old and highly respected citizen of Maroa, died at his
home in that city Friday. He would have been seventy-eight years old in December. His
death was caused by a complication of diseases, with which he had suffered for over a
year. Mr. Sigler was a veteran of the Civil war and a charter member of the G.A.R. post
in Maroa.
Mr. Sigler was born in Ashland county O., Dec. 25, 1840. When he was only
nineteen years old he enlisted in company G of the Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry,
and served for over three years. After the war he came to Illinois and settled at Maroa
and had lived there ever since. He was the last of a family of seventeen children.
Mr. Sigler and Miss Fannie Stauffer of DeWitt county were married in 1865.
Five children were born to them, three of whom are still living. They are Clarence W.
Sigler of Decatur, Mrs. Addie Foster and Mrs. Homer Kennedy of South Pasadena Cal. Mrs.
Sigler died in 1890. In 1894 he and Alice East were married. One son was born to them,
J. Earl Sigler of near Clinton, ILL.
The funeral will be held at 2 o’clock Sunday afternoon at the Methodist
church in Maroa. The services will be conducted by Rev. E. J. Campbell. The interment
will be in the Maroa cemetery. Friends may call at the house from 1 to 2:30 o’clock
Sunday afternoon.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 3 Aug 1918
SIMPSON, Sarah (Querry) CLOVER
Born: 17 Jan 1844 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 22 Feb 1916 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Croninger Cem.
Parents: Elisha & Mary A. (Florey) Querry
Married: #1 11 Mar 1867 in Macon Co, IL to David Clover
#2 Abt. 1873 to George W. Simpson
Children: Florence Clover, David Clover, John Simpson & Franklin Simpson
SINE, Ruby
Ruby, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Sine, died yesterday morning
at the family residence, No. 1121 North Clinton street, of spinal meningitis. The little
one was nineteen months old, and has been sick but a short time. The funeral will take place
from the residence this afternoon at two o’clock, and the services will be conducted by Rev.
T.I. Coultas.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 31 Mar 1886
The funeral of the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Sine took place yesterday
afternoon from the family residence. The services were conducted by Rev. T.I. Coultas.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 1 Apr 1886
SITES, Lydia A.(Mitchell)
Lydia A. Sites, daughter of Randolph and Lydia Mitchell and consort of Mr. Peter
Sites, of this city, was born in New Reading, Perry county, Ohio, July, A.D. 1836, was married
to her now deeply bereaved husband, January, 1854, removed to this State and to this county the
Spring following their marriage, and to this place about one year ago, where she met an early
death, and from which she has gone to a better land.
Blessed with pious and religious parents, sister Sites was led early to "the Pearl
of Great Price," and when but a child united with the Methodist Episcopal church, in which she
had been raised, and of which her parents were pious and orderly members.
In this the Church of her early choice she continued a faithful and consistent
member attending regularly the means of Grace until she left Ohio for the west. On leaving, she
like many others, did not obtain a certificate of membership, and being somewhat unsettled for a
part of the time she was in this community, still remained without identifying herself with the
Church here. But she preserved the fear of God before her eyes and still retained a measure of
love in her heart. This was evidenced from the fact that after having attended a party or two
where she found no spiritual comfort, she feared she was losing ground in religion, and with
sorrow for the past, earnestly requested her husband never to take her to another.
'Tis human to err - but noble and christian to confess our errors. Hers was an
excellent spirit. Those who knew her well speak commendingly of her. When tempted and tried
she sought and found relief at the "Mercy Seat." When she approached the crossings of Jordan,
she was somewhat fearful, she prayed for Divine assistance - grace came according to her hour,
and she rejoiced and shouted praise to the Lord, and from this world of affliction and sorrow,
passed safely to that of honor and glory on the evening of November 4, 1855.
"Her toils are past, her work is done,
And she is fully blest;
She fought the fight, the victory won,
And entered into rest.
Her funeral sermon was preached in the Methodist Church by the writer of this,
Tuesday morning, November 6, to an interesting congregation from Gal. 6-7-8. After which her
body was laid in the grave. If we "Sow to the Spirit, we shall of the Spirit reap life
everlasting." May her dear friends meet her in glory - Amen! J. MONTGOMERY, Decatur, Illinois,
Nov. 12, 1855
Illinois State Chronicle (Decatur), 15 Nov 1855
SKELLEY, Elizabeth Ellen (Fitzpatrick)
Mrs Elizabeth Skelley Dies in Home at 94
Mrs. Elizabeth Ellen Skelley, 94, of 1187 West Cerro Gordo street, who was the oldest
member of St. Patrick's Catholic church, died at 3:45 A.M. today in her home where she had been
bedfast since Easter.
A daughter of James and Sarah Valentine Fitzpatrick, she was born in Versailles, KY.,
Nov 1,1850. In 1856, she moved to Decatur where she spent the rest of her life. She was married to
Jon Skelley on May 20, 1872 in St Patrick's and they celebrated their golden wedding anniversary
in 1922. Her husband died in 1925.
She leaves eight living children, Edward S., Roy G., Charles J., Lester J., and Sadie
L., all of Decatur. Walter J., Whiting, Ind., and Ernest, Salem, Ore., and Mrs Lilah Adams, San
Bernardino, Calif.: 17 grandchildren; seven great-grand-children; and a brother, Richard V.
Fitzpatrick, Decatur.
Requiem high mass will be celebrated at 9:00 A. M. Wednesday in St .Patrick's church.
Burial will be in Calvary cemetery. Friends may call at the Moran & Sons funeral home after 9 A.M.
tomorrow.
Decatur Review, 9 Jul 1945, pg. 10
SKELLEY, James A.
James A. Skelley died at Waterloo, Iowa, on Sunday night, Sept. 25, aged about
57 years. Deceased was taken ill in Minnesota with paralysis. He was a brick mason and had
made his home here for some years. He leaves a wife and a married daughter who resides at
Mattoon. The remains arrived here from the north at 5 o’clock Monday afternoon.
Saturday Herald, Decatur IL, 1 Oct 1887, pg. 8
SKELLEY, John
JOHN SKELLEY, 83, DIES SUDDENLY
Had Been Resident Here Sixty Years
John Skelley, one of Decatur's oldest residents, died rather suddenly at the family
residence, 1104 West King street, at 6:30 o'clock Saturday morning. He was more than eighty-three
years of age and this together with heart trouble was the cause of his death.
He had really been in rather poor health in the spring but had seemed to improve until
about a week ago, when he became serious again. However, he had shown some improvement and only a
few minutes before he fell over to the floor Saturday morning, he had walked to the door.
CAME HERE IN 1866
He was born in Goshen, Ind., on Aug. 2, 1842. When a young man, he attended Notre
Dame university and upon completion of his course in that school, he came directly to Decatur in
1866. He had been a resident of Decatur ever since that time, a period of almost sixty years.
RELATIVES
He leaves his widow, Mrs. Elizabeth Skelley and the following children: Edward, Sadie, Roy,
Charles and Lester, all of Decatur; Walter of Chicago, Ernest of Salem, Ore., and Mrs. Lelah Adams of
San Bernadino, Cal. There are also thirteen grandchildren and two brothers, Louis of Houston, Tex., and
Lawrence of Davenport, Ia. The two children in the west, Lelah and Ernest, had already been notified
of his condition and both are now en route home, each expecting to be here next Tuesday morning.
The body was removed to the undertaking establishment of Moran and Sons and probably will
remain there until Tuesday. The funeral will be held in St. Patrick's Catholic church, and will in all
probability be next Wednesday morning.
Decatur Review, 12 Sep 1925
SKELLEY, Lewis
LEWIS SKELLEY DIES IN TEXAS
Formerly Was Deputy County Clerk, Later City Clerk, in This City
Lewis F. Skelley, formerly city clerk of Decatur, died Thursday in Houston, Tex.,
where he had made his home for many years. The message announcing his death came to Mrs. Edward
Higgins from her sister, Mrs. Skelley, saying that his death was due to an accident. It so happened
that Mrs. Higgins was visiting in Kansas City returning home Friday night when the telegram was
delivered to her and Mr. Higgins was then in Litchfield. Mr. and Mrs. Higgins left on an early
morning train for Houston.
L.F. Skelley was for many years a resident of Decatur. He was deputy county clerk
during the term of George P. Hardy. He was elected city clerk during a period when party lines
were not drawn. Cliff Betzer then was city clerk and was regarded as invincib le in his candidacy
for that office. Some of the old timers of that day thought Skelley was wholly lacking in political
judgment in opposing Betzer whom he defeated by a decisive majority. More than 30 years ago, L.F.
Skelley went to Houston, Tex. to make his home. He leaves his wife and to sons Arthur and Lewis.
Decatur Herald, 3 Dec 1927
SKELLEY, Patrick
The funeral of Patrick Skelley was held at 9 o'clock Saturday morning at St. Patrick's
Catholic church. The services were conducted by Rev. Father J. Murphy. There was a large attendance,
many of the old residents of the city who had known Mr. Skelley for many years being present. The
music was furnished by Miss Margaret Muleady and Edward Hayes. The pall bearers were all nephews of
Mr. Skelley, being Edward Skelley, Frank Skelley, Roy Skelley, Lewis Skelley, Charles Skelley and
Lester Skelley. The interment was in Calvary.
The Daily Review (Decatur), 7 Oct 1916
SKELTON, Lida Kathryn (Bullock)
Born: 31 Jan 1911 in Oreana, Macon Co, IL
Died: 22 Dec 1994 in Decatur Macon Co, IL
Buried: Union Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Henry Guy and Fannie Martha (Reed) Bullock
Married: 17 Mar 1930 to Otto Shubel Skelton
Children: Robert, Donald
SLAUGHTER, W.H.H.
W.H.H. Slaughter died at 3 o’clock Sunday morning at his home, 535 East
Herkimer street, from a complication of diseases. Mr. Slaughter was well known among the
older people of the town. He came here shortly after the Civil war, and was married here.
He was born in Sullivan county, Tenn., in 1845. At the beginning of the civil
war he enlisted in the mounted infantry and served throughout the war. Shortly after he was
mustered out of the army in 1865, he came to Decatur, where he has lived ever since.
Mr. Slaughter leaves his wife and four children, Annie of Decatur, Hattie of
Ste. Louis, Bessie of California, and Daisy of Springfield. The funeral will be held at 1:30
o’clock Tuesday afternoon from the family residence on East Herkimer street. The body will
be buried in the Brush College cemetery. The services will be in the charge of Rev. H.W.
Trueblood.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 2 Nov 1903, pg. 1
SMALLWOOD, Josephene M.
Josephene M., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Smallwood, died this morning at the family
residence, No. 704 North Church street, of brain trouble, aged 16 months. The funeral will be held
tomorrow at 3:30 o'clock from the residence.
Daily Republican, Decatur, IL, 17 Jun 1895
SMALLWOOD, Joseph P.
JOE SMALLWOOD DEAD
Was Born In This County in The Year 1829
Farmed When A Young Man
Connected With Many Affairs and Made Money
Joseph P. Smallwood, who by reason of his long residence in or near Decatur, was known
to most of the oldest residents of Macon county, died at his home, 159 West North street, in this
city, at 6:45 a.m., Saturday, November 5. He was 69 years old. His death was caused by kidney
trouble, with which he had been afflicted for a long time. A surgical operation was performed last
Monday in the hope that his life might be saved, but he continued to grow worse and it has been
known for several days that he could not recover. He was born in this county and the greater
portion, in fact nearly all, of his life had been spent here.
Mr. Smallwood's parents, Parmenus and Deborah Smallwood, were both born in Virginia
and came to Ohio in 1823. In 1824 they moved to Illinois and settled in Macon county, being among
the earliest pioneers of the county. Parmenus Smallwood entered 320 acres of land a mile and a
half north of Decatur, which he improved and made an excellent farm of. This part of the state
was then a wilderness and there were more Indians here than white men. He served as a soldier in
the war of 1812 and died in 1850 at the age of 60 years. His wife died in 1877, aged 81 years.
To them were born sixteen children. Those who have died are Yanizen B, Yamzen S., George D., John
B., Samuel A., James M., Daniel M., Douglas B., Parmenas A., Sarah J., Asbarinah, Gideon P. and
Joseph P., the subject of this sketch. The three surviving children of Parmenus Smallwood and
wife are Mrs. Elizabeth Rohen, wife of Walter Rohen of DeWitt county; Mrs. Amelia A. Bennett of
Kansas and Mrs. Susan Davis, widow of Emanuel Davis.
WENT TO CALIFORNIA
Joseph P. Smallwood was born July 10, 1829 on the home farm a mile and a half north
of Decatur. He received his education in a log school and until he was sixteen years of age, he
assisted his father on the farm. At the time, he decided to learn the blacksmith trade, but after
working at it for five years he decided that there were few blacksmiths getting rich and he decided
that he would try something else. In 1850, while the California fever was at its height, Mr. Smallwood
made his way overland to that state and spent three years there in a search for the yellow metal.
He brought back some gold with him in 1854, but he did not meet with any flattering success. He
decided that the surest way to get gold was to dig it out of a farm in Macon county. He farmed
very successfully for five years, when he traded his farm for a steam mill. He followed the milling
business for about one year.
In October 1857, at Decatur Mr. Smallwood was married to Miss Mary Frederick. The
couple became the parents of two children, Effie and Sheridan. The latter died when quite young.
The former was married to John B. Lauffer and is also now deceased. Mrs. Smallwood died in 1859.
Later Mr. Smallwood was married to Miss Elizabeth Hawes. By the second wife there was only one
child, Frank Smallwood, who survives his father. The third wife of Mr. Smallwood was Mrs. Mary
Harpell-Trimble of Cincinnati. The wedding occurred in August 1877. She died in October 1880.
In 1870 Mr. Smallwood went into the clothing and tailoring business in the room where
Jones and Hall are now located. The firm name was Smallwood and Hudson. They later moved to
Prairie street and occupied a room just east of the Decatur Gun company's store. He continued
in this business for thirteen years. In the meantime he had bought considerable land in Shelby
and Edgar counties and in 1883 he sold out his clothing and tailoring interests and devoted his
time to the improvement of his farms.
HIS PROPERTY
(NOTE: The next sentence is typed as presented)Mr. Smallwood was for a number of
He was the owner of the famous Aloha years engaged in breeding fast horses. The horse cost him
practically nothing, and when sold in 1892 brought Mr. Smallwood $21,000.
In 1885 with later additions Mr. Smallwood built the handsome residence on West
North street known as Smallwood flats. He owned real estate in several counties, his property
amounting to many hundreds of acres. He recently purchased the Leforgee residence and the house
formerly occupied as the Presbyterian parsonage, both of which are just across the street from
the Smallwood flats. He also owned a considerable amount of inner city property.
His wealth is estimated at from $100,000 to $125,000.
Besides his sisters and his son, Frank Smallwood, he leaves two nephews, J.B. and
Jerome R. Smallwood, and a nieve, Mrs. Jesse Leforgee.
The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock Monday from the residence. Dr. H.C. Jones
will read a sketch of Mr. Smallwood's life, and they body will be laid to rest in Greenwood.
The casket will be open from 11 to 1 o'clock Monday, and friends who so desire may
call during these hours.
Daily Review, 6 November 1898
THE DEAD AT REST
Funeral of The Late Joseph Smallwood
Reading of Selections by Dr. T.B. Spalding - Music By the Choir - Burial At Greenwood
The funeral of the late Joseph P. Smallwood was held this afternoon at 2 o'clock from
his late residence on West North street. There was quite a huge attendance of friends. The casket
was placed in one of the parlors of the residence and there were several floral designs. The
services were very simple and consisted only of the singing of two hymns and the readings of an
obituary notice and a short statement as to the feelings of the deceased as to religion.
At 2 o'clock the service opened with the singing of a chant entitled "Almighty One".
Dr. T.D. Spalding then arose and fear from a copy of the Evening Republican the obituary printed
the day of Mr. Smallwood's death. On concluding Dr. Spalding read from another newspaper an account
which he stated Mr. Smallwood before his death had requested he read to show his sentiments in regard
to religion. The article was quite a long one. It forbid any religious services being held at
the funeral and denounced religion as being a fraud. The author expressed himself as being unable
to believe what was taught him when young about there being a God and that had he been raised in
the Mohammedan religion his belief in the Koran would have been just as firm as his belief in the
Bible, and that the progress of the world advanced with the growth of skepticism. In conclusion
the belief was expressed by the unknown author of the article that the world would be better when
the people gave up the idea of religion. The choir then sang a hymn entitled "There Is a Wilderness
in God's Mercy Like The Wilderness of The Sea," and the ceremonies were concluded. The casket was
closed and carried from the house by the pallbearers, who were Reed Spencer, Eli Brenneman, A.J.
Danston, J.G. Cloyd, O.B. Gorin and John R. McLean.
The burial took place at Greenwood cemetery, where the remains were quietly laid to
rest. As the casket was being lowered, "The Better Land" was ____ by the choir which comprised
Miss Beatrice Howard, Mrs. Bert Gher, D.L. Bunn and Bert Gher.
Daily Republican, 7 November 1898
SMART, Charles Frank
Charles Frank Smiart, 514 E. Marietta St, retired groceryman, died at St. Mary's Hospital
at 2:30 o'clock Monday morning. He was 64 years old last August. He had been in failing
health for several years and had been in the hospital the last 6 weeks.
Mr. Smart was born in Maroa August 22, 1863. He moved to Decatur 36 years ago. He was a
member of Decatur camp No. 144, M.W.A. He is survived by his wife, but no children. He also
leaves the following sisters and brothers: Mrs. Minnie Schultz, Mrs. Mate Vernor, G.T. Smart,
David Smart, Mrs. Lottie Mettier, all of Maroa. The body was taken to Moran and Sons Funeral
Directors and prepared for burial.
Decatur Review, Mon, Nov 21, 1927, p. 8
SMART, Mrs. William
Mrs. William Smart died Monday morning at her home in Maroa, aged about 65 years. Mrs.
Smart had been in failing health for several months.
She was married to William Smart Dec. 12, 1876, in Austin township, and in 1880 the family
moved to Maroa where they have since resided.
She is survived by her husbans, who has been very low for several months, and 4 children,
Mrs. Josephine Davis of Decatur, William J. and Edward of Moline, IL; and Miss Georgia and Miss
Eunice of Maroa. There are 3 sisters and 2 brothers.
Funeral services will be held at the Christian Church at 2:30 Wednesday and burial will be
in the Maroa Cemetery.
Decatur Daily Review, Tues, June 1, 1920, p. 12
SMITH, Addie (Burke)
Mrs. Addie Emma [Burke] SMITH 79, died at 2:10 am today [13 Jan 1939] in her home in Boody
after an illness of six weeks. A daughter of John and Sarah Burke, she was born in Blue Mound
Township, November 3, 1859. She married Millard T. Smith on June 18, 1884. He died Jan 1, 1929.
Mrs Smith leaves six children; Floyd and Reid of Decatur, Lynn and Vere of Boody, Mrs. Dot
Schenk of Boody and Mrs. Madge Cope of Decatur. She also leaves ten grandchildren and one
sister; Ora Neintker of Boody. One daughter, Florence Smith preceded her in death.
She was a member of the Zion Methodist Church and a resident of Boody for 57 years.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2pm Sunday in the United Brethren Church in Boody with
Monson Funeral Directors in charge. burial will be in Salem Cemetary. The body is at the family
residence in Boody.
Contributed by Helen in Texas
SMITH, B. F.
DIED - Mr. B.F. Smith, an old citizen of this place, died at his residence last
night, April 19th, inst., of quick consumption. For several years Mr. Smith has been a member
of the bar in this county, and once ranked among the best in the legal profession. He leaves a
large and estimable family.
Daily Republican (Decatur), 28 April 1872
SMITH, Caleb
Caleb Smith Dies In McLeansboro
Was Once Member of Decatur Rescue Hose Team
Another member of Decaturs old Rescue Hose team the volunteer fire department
of years ago, Caleb Smith, died at his home in McLeansboro Sunday morning; he had been
seriously ill only a short time, but due to his advanced age his health had not been of
the very best for some time. He was about 80 rears old and was born In Germany but came to
this country with his parents when but a small boy. First living in Moweaqua, where his father
helped build the Illinois Central railroad through that place. When still a very young man he
came to Decatur and learned the cigar makers trade in the Michl cigar factory.
AN ATHLETE
He followed this trade for many years. About forty years ago the family moved
to McLeansboro where he has lived ever since. He conducted a cigar factory and a brickyard
at that place for many years but in late years had retired. When a young man in Decatur he
was inclined toward athletics and was not only a member of the old Rescue Hose team but was
also active in the Turner Society.
FOUR CHILDREN
He is survived by four children; L. L. Smith, vice-president of the Illinois
Standard Trust Co, of Decatur, Harry Smith, formerly of Decatur and now of Huntington, Ind.,
Mrs Nellie Hassett, also formerly of Decatur and now of McLeansboro and Miss. Genevieve Smith
at home. His wife who preceded him in death several years ago was formerly Maria Fitzpatrick
of Decatur. The funeral will be held at the Catholic Church in McLeansboro Tuesday morning
and will be attended by a number of relatives from Decatur.
Decatur Review, Decatur, Illinois, Monday, 19 Apr 1926, pg. 3
SMITH, Child
The youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. Eli H. Smith died early Friday morning, Oct. 12. The
funeral was conducted by Rev. McCarty at the Christian church Saturday morning, after which the remains
were taken to the Peck cemetery, northwest of Cerro Gordo, for interment.
The Daily Review (Decatur), 17 Oct 1894
SMITH, Doris
Doris Smith, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Logan Smith, died at 1 o'clock Wednesday
morning at the family residence, two and a half miles west of Oakley. She was ten months old.
Her death was caused by complications. Besides the parents she leaves two sister, Lillie and Carrie
Smith, and two brothers, Edward and Hansel Smith. The funeral will be held at 2:30 o'clock
Thursday afternoon at the residence. The interment will be in the Wheeler cemetery.
Decatur Review, (Decatur, IL), 24 Oct 1917
SMITH, Edward L.
DIED, on Saturday, the 17th inst., (after a short illness of Diabetis,)
EDWARD L., son of G.A. and Ann Smith, aged 12 years and 7 days.
Illinois State Chronicle (Decatur), 22 Sep 1859
SMITH, Elizabeth
Funeral services for Mrs. Elizabeth E. Smith will be at 11 o'clock Monday morning in
Mt. Carmel church near Vandalia. The funeral party will leave Moran's at 8 o'clock.
Decatur Herald, 17 Jun 1928
SMITH, Flo
Flo Smith, the infant daughter of Mr. & Mrs. M.T. Smith, of Boody, died of
scarlett fever, December 16, aged 17 months. The funeral was held Sunday at 11 o'clock at the
residence and the remains were laid to rest in Salem cemetery.
Weekly Herald Despatch (Decatur, IL), 24 Dec 1892
SMITH, Floyd Burke
Floyd Burke SMITH, 67, died at 1:30 pm yestrday, 28 Dec 1952, in his home at
1718 E. Cantrell St., Decatur, IL. He had been in failing health for three
years.
A salesman for the Decatur Bottling Company for 27 years. Smith retired in
1949. He had lived in Decatur all his adult life and was member of the Modern
Woodmen.
Smith was born Jan 23, 1885 in Boody, a son of Millard and Addie [Burke]
SMITH. He was married to Rhea Curtis in Springfield in 1921.
He leaves his wife, two daughters; Mrs. Ila Bower, Decatur, and Mrs. Audrey
Herring, Baltimore,MD; two sons, Millard Smith in the Navy in Japan, and Lyle
Smith, Tuscola; one brother, Reid Rufus Smith, Mesa,AZ; two sisters, Mrs. Dot
Schenk,Boody and Mrs. Madge Cope,Decatur; and six granchildren. Two brothers
and one sister preceded him in death.
The body is in Brintlinger Funeral Home. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetary.
Contributed by Helen in Texas
SMITH, Hazel M. Souders
Born: 1914
Died: 1936
Buried: Graceland Cemetery, Decatur, Macon Co., IL
Parents:
Married: Hubert Smith
Children:
Submitted by: Hazel Fry
SMITH, James W.
James W. Smith, one of the oldest residents of Niantic Township, and a assessor in that
township for twenty years or more, died Wednesday afternoon at his home in Niantic. He was eighty-five
years old last July. His death was due to complications incident to old age. Mr. Smith was born in
Booneville Ind., July 11, 1841. He and Miss Martha P. Robinson were married there March 6, 1862. That
same years he enlisted in Company B of the Ninety-first Indiana Volunteer Infantry and serviced three
years till the close of the war. He was always glad to meet old soldiers who had participated in
campaigns engaged in by his regiment.
Mr. Smith moved to Niantic township more than fifty years ago and was known to practically
everybody in the community. For many years he was engaged in farming. He was often elected assessor,
a duty he performed to the satisfaction of all. He retired several years ago and moved into town. Mrs.
Smith died in 1909. He and Mrs. Matilda S. D. Holt were married in 1923. He is survived by his wife
and the following children, James T. Smith of Sullivan, Ind., John E. Smith of Chicago, Jasper A. Smith
of Waterloo, La, Travis D. Smith of Salt Lake City and William H. (???) Smith of Decatur.
Decatur Review, Decatur IL, 23 Dec 1926, pg. 18
James W. Smith Dies In Niantic
Had Served Several Terms As Assessor
James W. Smith, one of the oldest residents of Niantic township, and assessor in that
township for 20 years or more, died Wednesday afternoon at his home in Niantic. He was 85 years
old last July. His death was due to complications incident to old age.
Mr. Smith was born in Booneville, Indiana July 11, 1841. He and Miss Martha E.
Robinson were married there March 6, 1862. That same year he enlisted in Co.B of the ninety-first
Ind. volunteer infantry and served three years till the close of the war. He was always glad to
meet old soldiers who had participated in campaigns engaged in by his regiment.
Served As Assessor
Mr. Smith moved to Niantic township more than 50 years ago, and was known to
practically everybody in the community. For many years he was engaged in farming. He was often
elected assessor, a duty he performed to the satisfaction of all. He retired several years ago
and moved into town. Mrs. Smith died in 1909. He and Mrs. Marilla S.D. Holt were married in
1921. He is survived by his wife and the following children, James T. Smith of Sullivan, Ind.;
John D. Smith of Chicago; Jasper A. Smith of Waterloo, Iowa; Travis D. Smith of Salt Lake City
and William (Dick) Smith of Decatur.
Decatur Review, 23 December 1926
SMITH, Jessie Fremont (Stuart)
Born: 21 Dec 1862 in Whitmore Twp, Macon Co, IL
Died: 3 Aug 1914 in Lohrville, Calhoun Co, IA
Buried:
Parents: Oliver L. & Elizabeth (Kile) Stuart
Married: 19 Jan 1886 in Macon Co, IL to Wm. H. Smith
Children: Wayne, Prudence, Merle, Ethel & Irene
SMITH, Joseph
Joseph Smith, aged 61 years , died Dec. 1st of settling of the brain, at the home of his
sister, Mrs. Mary J. Cole, No. 1128 East Eldorado St. The deceased was an old soldier. Members of Dunham
Post, No. 141 G.A.R. attended the funeral Sunday and buried their comrade with military honors.
Decatur Republican, Decatur, IL, 6 Dec 1888, pg. 1
Joseph Smith who was buried with military honors Sunday afternoon, served bravely in an Ohio
regiment during the war. He got about $2500 back pension about a year ago and drew $25 a month from the
government. He was a kindhearted old gentleman and quite industrious.
Decatur Republican, Decatur IL, 6 Dec 1888, pg.1
SMITH, Lewis C.
Born: 12 October 1871 Lebanon, OH
Died: 12 April 1928 Decatur, Macon Co., IL
Buried: Greenwood Cemetery, Decatur, Macon Co., IL
Parents:
Married: Maude --, she predeceased her husband
Children: Golda, Clifford, Mrs. Harry Lacey, Lewis, Jr., Dorothy. Survivors also included a
brother, Morris.
SMITH, Maria (Fitzpatrick)
MRS CALEB SMITH, OLD RESIDENT DIES
Expires at Her Home in McLeansboro
Mrs Caleb Smith years ago a Decatur resident and who will be remembered here
by many older residents, died at her home in McLeansboro, Illinois, Monday night according
to the message received here Tuesday morning. Her two sons, Harry Smith, 972 West King
Street and L. L. Smith, 1136 East Main Street, received word Monday afternoon and left
immediately for her bedside. A sister, Mrs. John Skelley, 1104 West King and a sister-in-law,
Mrs. Johanna Fitzpatrick, 802 West Eldorado Street, left for McLeansboro Tuesday morning.
Mrs. Smith was formerly Miss Maria Fitzpatrick and was born at Versailles,
Ky., Oct. 2, 1848, almost sixty-nine years ago, and came to Decatur with her parents when
a child. She married Caleb Smith, a cigar-maker of this city, in 1869. She was a member of
the St. Patrick's church choir here in the early days of that congregation. Thirty-four
years ago, they removed to McLeansboro, where Mr. Smith conducted a cigar factory and
brickyard. Besides her two sons here, she is survived by her husband and two daughters,
Mrs. Nellie Hassett, until recently of Decatur and now of McLeansboro, and Miss Gcnevieve
Smith, living at home. The funeral will be held at McLeansboro Thursday morning.
The Daily Review, Decatur, Illinois, Tuesday, 3 Jul 1917, pg. 10
SMITH, May Annetta Rowland
DECATUR - May Annetta Rowland Smith, 87, of Lake Oswego, Oregon, formerly a
long time Decatur resident, died 2:00 P.M., Saturday, March 24, 2007. Funeral services
will be 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, April 3, 2007, at Brintlinger & Earl Funeral Home, Decatur, IL,
with visitation one hour prior to service time at the funeral home. Graveside services will be
2:30 P.M., Tuesday, April 3, 2007, at Rutland Cemetery, Rutland, IL. Memorials may be made
to First United Methodist Church.
May was born August 11, 1919, in Rutland, IL, the daughter of Raymond Regnald
and Leda Marguerite (Blandin) Rowland. She married Kerwyn Bailey Smith on August 16, 1942. May
was a life long member of First United Methodist Church in Decatur. She worked at the Pentagon
in Washington, D.C. during WWII. After graduating from Millikin University with a teaching
degree, she taught K-12 in the one-room schoolhouse in Monitor, Illinois before getting married
and later taught Special Education in the Decatur Public Schools. May was a member of Stephen
Decatur Chapter NSDAR and the Eastern Star. She later moved to Oregon in 2001.
She is survived by her daughter Nancy Sheinbaum and grandson Scott Sheinbaum;
daughter Carol Ann Meadows and granddaughter Joanna Lynn Abbott; brothers Raymond Rowland and
Walter F. Rowland; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents,
husband Kerwyn (September 29, 2000), daughter Patricia Mae Smith (August 15, 2000).
Herald & Review (Decatur), 1 Apr 2007
Submitted by: Kathy Ikeda
SMITH, Millard Theadore
Millard Theadore SMITH died at his residence in Boody at 7:30 o'clock,
Saturday night [1 June 1929] following an illness of short duration. He had
suffered a stroke of apoplexy Friday morning.
Mr. Smith was born in Boody, Dec 18, 1856 and was seventy-three years of age.
In 1884 he was married to Addie Emma Burke. He is survived by his wife and the
following children: Floyd and Lynn Smith of Decatur, Reid and Vere Smith of
Boody, and Miss Dot Smith of Boody and Miss Madge Smith also of Boody.
Mr. Smith was s stock buyer and feeder all his life with the exception of one
year in 1888, when he was a cattle salesman in Indianapolis for Middlesworth,
Benson, Coburn and Company. All his life but the one year was spent in Boody.
Funeral services will be held at the United Brethern Church in Boody at 2pm
Tuesday afternoon.
Contributed by Helen in Texas
SMITH, Paul
From Tuesday’s Daily – This afternoon Paul Smith, the carpenter and
contractor, whose home was at 840 West William street, was found burned to death in a small
brush fire near the Brush College school house east of the city three miles on the road
extending from East William street.
The deceased was found by some men in the employ of A. H. Cope, who are building
a culvert in that vicinity. They found Mr. Smith lying with his head in the fire in the
schoolyard, where he had apparently been engaged in burning some trash and brush. It is
supposed that Mr. Smith was overcome by the smoke or had a fainting spell falling into the fire.
Mr. Smith was past 60 years of age, and was a veteran of the late war, having
served in Co. K, 116th Indiana Infantry. He was a member of Dunham Post, 141, G.A.R.
He leaves a widow.
Coroner Bendure was called to the scene of the tragic death, to take charge
of the body.
Published in The Decatur Weekly Republican, Decatur IL, 23 May 1895, pg. 1.
The details of the inquest were published with this obituary. A detailed account of the
will of Paul Smith was published in the Decatur Weekly Republican, 6 Jun 1895, pg. 7.
SMITH, Richard L.
The funeral services of Richard L. Smith took place yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock,
at his mother's residence, Rev. Robert Mackenzie officating. There seems to have been some
misunderstanding about the time at which the services should be held, 3 o'clock being first fixed
upon. It was afterward changed to two o'clock, and singers that were to have been present, failing
to get word of the change were not present; consequently at the house there was no singing.
The officiating clergyman offered a very appropriate and feeling prayer, and made some
most excellent remarks, which were eminently fittin gfor the occasion. At the conclusion of the
services at the house the body was taken in charge by the Fire Department, of which the deceased had
for some time been a member, he being at the time of his death assistant foreman of the Hook &
Ladder Company.
As soon as the procession could be gotten into position, the casket containing the
body was placed in the hearse, members of the Co. of which he was foreman acting as pall bearers. The
procession moved north as far as West Main street and thence east to old square, and from this point
south to Greenwood cemetery, where the open grave awaited the remains. Here an appropriate hymn was
sung, and another fervent prayer was offered by Rev. Mr. Mackenzie, after which the body was deposited
in its last resting place and the procession returned to town and the family returned to their sad
and lonely home. The procession was one of the largest that has ever been in attendance on a
funeral occasion in the city.
Daily Republican, Decatur, IL, 26 Jan 1875
SMITH, Sarah (Goodpasture)
Mrs. Sarah Smith died early Tuesday night (23 Jan 1923) at the Decatur and Macon County
Hospital. She was sixty-four years old. Mrs. Smith had been in poor health for a long
time. Last Saturday she submitted to a surgical operation, but was unable to rally.
Mrs. Smith is survived by three sister, Mrs. Annie Haynes of Long Creek, Miss
Ivan Kaiser, whose home is in South Dakota, and Mrs. Nettie Hill, who lives in
Nebraska. She also leaves three brother, T.J. Goodpasture of Decatur, S. Goodpasture
and J.W. Goodpasture, both living east of Decatur, and a sister, Sue Goodpasture of
Oakley. The body was removed to the Moran & Sons undertaking establishment and
prepared for burial.
Decatur Review - Jan 23, 1923 - p. 6
(Burial in North Fork Cem., Macon Co, IL)
SMITH, Solomon
Solomon Smith died yesterday morning at the home of his son, Fred J. Smith, on North
Main street, of old age. The deceased was born in Albany county, New York, on August 10th, 1800,
and consequently was in the eighty-sixth year of his age. The deceased was well known in this
locality and was held in high regard by those who knew him as a man of strict integrity. The
funeral will take place from the family residence, No. 1258 North Main street, this afternoon
at two o'clock.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 14 Feb 1886
SNELL, Ann Catherine (Summers)
Mrs. Ann C. Snell died Wed. evening at 7 o'clock at the home of her son, W. H. Snell in Blue
Mound. She had been ill several months, and for the last two weeks it was known that she could
not recover. Mrs. Snell's maiden name was Ann C. Summers and she was born in Washington Co. MD
Aug. 1, 1835. Her first husband was Joseph Black, and two children were born to them--Andrew
Black of Blue Mound and Mrs. Julia Cunningham of Macon, MO. Her second husband was W. H. Snell
and their marriage took place Feb. 1864, William H. Snell being their only living descendant.
Mr. Snell died October 1890.
Blue Mound Leader as reprinted in the Moweaqua, Ill. Call-Mail, July 6, 1904
Submitted by: Barb Johnson
SNELL, Cornelia A. (Jarvis)
Mrs. W. H. Snell, 84, of 1578 N. Gulick Ave., died at 4:35 a.m. today in Decatur and Macon
County Hospital where she had been a patient three weeks.
Mrs. Snell was born in Shelbyville Aug. 27, 1867, a daughter of James and Anna Jarvis. Her
maiden name was Cornelia A. Jarvis. She was married in Moweaqua (on Feb. 25,1898) to William H.
Snell who died January 23, 1925. She was a member of the First Christian Church.
She leaves three sons, Paul J. and Robert R., Decatur, and William Dale, Blue Mound, and six
grandchildren. One son preceded her in death.
The body is at the Brintlinger Funeral Home where friends may call after 4 p.m. Wednesday.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday in the funeral home chapel with burial in Hall
Cemetery.
I have made a couple of corrections to the original obituary, adding their marriage date
and changing the date of grandpa's death from 1924 to 1925. Otherwise, all is the same.
Decatur, Illinois (probably the Review), Tuesday, July 1, 1952
Submitted by: Barb Johnson/p>
SNELL, W.H.
COMMUNITY HONORS PROGRESSIVE CITIZEN
More than twenty-five years, the writer has chronicled the deaths of citizens, of Blue
Mound and vicinity. This time it is our neighbor, and old friend whom we had lived near to in
the daily journey of life for nearly 26 years. This is a long time to be a close neighbor. It
has afforded the opportunity of full acquaintance which has been a most agreeable friendship
the entire period of over a quarter of a century. The writer refers to William H. Snell who
passed away, Friday Jan. 23, 1925.
For several months, Mr. Snell had been in poor health but attended to the business of the
Blue Mound Clothing Co. of which he had been manager the past two years. It was only four weeks
ago that he remained at his home, being unable to further attend to business at the store. He
had slightly improved at the end of the third week and decided to go to the Macon County
Hospital for a surgical operation which was performed Monday of last week. The operation showed
incurable conditions and it was only a question of a short time when he should pass away.
W. H. Snell was born on a farm near Moweaqua April 14, 1870. He was married to Nelia Jarvis,
Feb. 25, 1898. To this union four sons were born; Paul, Dale, Robert and John, all surviving
except John who died at the age of three years. He is also survived by three half sisters,
Julia Gather, Mrs. Mouzey (or Mauzey) of Moweaqua, Mrs. Nellie Haverfield of Assumption, and
four half brothers, Ed Snell of Assumption, Pugh Snell of Westervelt, Boone Snell of Kansas,
and Andrew Black of Decatur.
Mr. Snell became a citizen of Blue Mound about 28 years ago and engaged in the manufacture
of brick and tile. He discontinued the business about 10 years ago and engaged in other lines
of business. During the war he was manager of the Otto E. Belknap clothing store while Mr.
Belknap served two years in the army. Later he served an unexpired term as highway commissioner.
During the war Mr. Snell did much valuable service in soliciting subscriptions for liberty
bonds and it was through his efforts largely that Blue Mound always secured the quota of bonds
that was allotted to it.
The funeral was held Monday at 1:30 o'clock at the Christian church and was conducted by the
pastor, Rev. Browning. The funeral address was delivered by Rev. R. E. Henry of the Central
Christian Church of Decatur.
The church was filled to its fullest capacity of sorrowing friends. The large attendance
evidencing the popularity of the deceased and the appreciation of his work as a member of the
school board of Blue Mound the past 20 years. The schools as a body attended the service; the
boys' school band was out in uniform, marching from the home to the church and headed the
procession several blocks on its departure to the cemetery.
The pall-bearers were: J. C. Terry, Bert Dillehunt, H. H. Dunnavan, Claire Nicholls, C. W.
Evans and Ed Damery.
The flower-bearers were: Ruth Elliott, Hilda Noling, Dorothy Etchison, Lora Diehl, Nora
Tucker, Ethel Kirkpatrick, Grace Risley, Bernie Hall, Lulu Humphrey, Anna Dunnavan and Mrs.
Mattie Hayes.
The music was given by Mrs. J. D. Butler and Mrs. Wm. Ellis with Miss Ruth Bauer, pianist.
The community owed William H. Snell a large debt it will never repay. For twenty years, he
kept close touch with the public schools of Blue Mound. His work was always effective. He was
a good judge of the needs of the schools. In the employment of teachers, he was an expert. At
the expiration of his term of office he begged to be relieved of further service, but the
people said "No," re-electing him and thus endorsing his work. In his death the public schools
lose their best friend, the community a progressive citizen and his family a loving husband
and father.
Blue Mound Leader
Submitted by: Barb Johnson
SNYDER, Frederick
Frederick Snyder, who died at his residence, No. 1355 East North street on
Friday, July 18, was born in Brilefield, Weshphalia, February 25, 1931. He emigrated to
America in 1852, settling first in New York state. One year later he started westward and
finally located in Illinois in 1853. He made his home at Decatur first, but subsequently
moved to Pana. While there here he was for some time street commissioner for the city.
His residence in Pana comprised a period of four years from 1861 to 1865. For 13 years Mr.
Snyder lived on a fine farm which he purchased a few miles east of Decatur. For the last
year he had resided in Decatur altogether. He had no children. He came from Germany a
poor man and attained a competence by his own industry. He had many warm friends among
the German speaking people of Decatur, and his death is to all such a cause of profound
regret.
Saturday Herald (Decatur), 26 Jul 1884
SOLLARS, Eliza
Eliza Sollars, mother of R.G. Sollars, this city, died at Springfield on the 14th
in the 76th year of her age. She was a native of Ross county, Ohio, and had lived in Illinois
since 1818. Her surviving children number six. She was a member of the Christian church.
Decatur Republican, Decatur, IL, 21 Apr 1887
SOLLARS, Frank
News of the death of Frank Sollars reached Decatur Monday in a letter from his sister who
was Jeannette Sollars, a teacher in the Decatur schools. The family was years ago one of the bes
known in Decatur. The father was Roland G. Sollars and the family home was on West Decatur street.
There are few people in Decatur now that remember them. Frank Sollars died in Washington and the body
was buried in Montana where it appears he made his home.
Decatur Review, 5 Aug 1919
SOLLARS, Roland G.
Roland G. Sollars, who had been confined to his bed with a severe attack of lung fever for
a few days, died at his home on West Decatur street at 12:45 o'clock this morning in the 59th year of his
age. Mr. Sollars was the past senior vice commander of Dunham Post, No. 141, Grand Army of the Republic,
and was highly esteemed by his comrades and friends. He served in the late war as private in Company E,
116th Illinois Regiment, and was discharged Sept. 16, 1864, serving two years and 20 days. He was a
native of Sangamon county, Ill., where he was born Dec. 4, 1829. The deceased leaves a wife, four
daughters and a son. The children are Mrs. Lulu Wheelock and Mrs. Laura Ward, of Chicago, Mrs. Nellie
Cole, of Michigan, Mrs. Nettie Crozier and Frank Sollars, of Decatur. By occupation the deceased was a
plasterer and builder of concrete walks.
Decatur Republican, 10 Nov 1887
SONGER, John A.
John A. Songer, formerly of Decatur, died Thursday at the Soldiers’ home at
Danville. He was 75 years old. His death was caused by Bright’s disease. He is survived by
an adopted daughter, Mrs. Louie Ball of Quincy, and one brother, J.M. Songer of Decatur, and
the following sisters: Mrs. John Bevans of Melvin, Ill, Mrs. Jack Ward of Owaneco, and Mrs.
J.B. Ehrhart of Decatur.
The body will be brought to Decatur at 5:20 this afternoon and removed to Dodd’s
undertaking establishment and prepared for burial. The funeral will be held at 3 o’clock
Saturday afternoon.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 22 Oct 1909, pg. 12
SOUDERS, Charles Augustus
Born: 19 September 1867 in Macon County, IL
Died: 1950, Macon Co., IL
Buried: Greenwood Cemetery, Decatur, Macon County, IL
Parents: James G. Souders and Hetty A. Howell
Married: Sarah A. Jenks(Janks) Fritz Heil
Children:
Submitted by: Hazel Fry
SOUDERS, David
Born: 10 Jan 1869 in Macon County, IL
Died: 6 Sept 1947 in Macon Co., IL
Buried: Mt. Gilead, South Wheatland, Macon County, IL
Parents: James G. Souders and Hetty A. Howell
Married: Mary M. Buttgeir
Children:
Submitted by: Hazel Fry
SOUDERS, George W.
Born: 3 Nov 1861 in Macon County, IL
Died: 10 Dec 1893 in Mt. Zion, Macon Co., IL
Buried: Greenwood Cemetery, Decatur, Macon County, IL
Parents: James G. Souders and Hetty A. Howell
Married:
Children:
Submitted by: Hazel Fry
SOUDERS, James Garner
Born: 28 Sept 1834 in Pennsylvania
Died: 25 Nov 1917 in Mt. Zion, Macon Co., IL
Buried: Mt. Zion Cemetery
Parents:
Married(1): 7 June 1857 in Macon Co, IL to Hetty Ann Howell
Children: Lodemia, George, Laura, Charles, David, Bert, Zella
Married(2): 29 May 1882 in Macon Co., IL to Sarah Ellen Hooper
Children: Sherman, Benjamin, Alonzo H.
Submitted by: Hazel Fry
SOUDERS, John Alexander
John A. S. died at 5:20 Sunday morning at the family residence, on the Moffit road south of the
city. His death was due to a complication of diseases. He had been in poor health for two or
three years. He had resided in Decatur for many years. He was a house mover and followed that
business for many years. He was one of the old settlers, having lived in the county for about
forty-one years. He was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, and there he grew to manhood.
After his marriage he moved to Macon county and lived there ever since. Ill health forced him
to retire from active business about two years ago. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Anna Souders,
one son Charles Lee Souders, and three grandchildren, all of whom live in Decatur.
The funeral was held from the residence at 9:30 Monday morning. It was conducted
by Elder M. Florey of the Dunkard church. The singing was by Mrs. M. Florey, Mrs. Della Shock,
Mrs. Dougherty and Mrs. Ray. The interment was at Long Creek cemetery.
Decatur Daily Review, 13 January 1908
SOUDERS, Sarah Ellen (Hooper)
Born: 1857 in KY
Died: 1912 in Macon Co., IL
Buried: Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Mt. Zion, Macon County, IL
Parents:
Married: 29 May 1882 to James G. Souders, Macon County, IL
Children: Sherman, Benjamin and Alonzo
Submitted by:Hazel Fry
SOUDERS, Sherman Lee
Born: 5 July 1884 Mt. Zion, Macon Co., IL
Died: 7 July 1966
Buried: Graceland Cemetery, Decatur, Macon Co., IL
Parents: James Souders & Sarah Hooper
Married: 18 Dec 1913 Decatur, Macon Co., IL to Lettie Reed
Children: Edward, Walter, 3 brothers: Bert, Ben and Alonzo; 11 grandchildren, 21 g-grandchildren
Submitted by:Hazel Fry
SOUDERS, Walter
Born: 28 March 1919 Mt. Zion, Macon Co., IL
Died: 25 June 1985 Mattoon, Coles Co., IL
Buried: Resthaven Cemetery
Parents: Sherman L. Souders & Letha Reed
Married: 5 Sept 1942 Decatur, Macon Co., IL to Ada Richards
Children: 2 sons, 4 daughters (including submitter), 18 grandchildren and 1 g-grandchild
NOTE: All children, grandchildren still living.
Submitted by:Hazel Fry
SOUDERS, Zella
Born: 19 July 1876 in Macon County, IL
Died: 1876 Macon Co., IL
Buried: Mt. Zion Cemetery, Mt. Zion, Macon County, IL
Parents: James G. Souders and Hetty A. Howell
Married:
Children:
Submitted by: Hazel Fry
SOUTHERLAND, James Wesley
Died, in this city, on July 21, 1882, on North Monroe street, of brain fever,
James Wesley, a son of R.C. and N.J. Southerland, aged 9 years and 26 days.
Review (Decatur), 22 Jul 1882
SPAETH, Augusta
Augusta Spaeth passed from this mortal life at 4 o'clock Sunday morning, April 12
at St. Mary's hospital. The deceased was a sister of Anton Spaeth of 816 East Wood street but
her home was at Green Creek near Effingham, Ill. She has been in poor health for sometime and
about 3 weeks ago came to Decatur for the purpose of having a surgical operation performed. The
deceased was 40 years of age. She was of a happy lovable disposition and by her goodness had
drawn about her a large circle of warm friends who will be pained to hear of her death. She
leaves 3 brother; Rev. Father J. Spaeth of Port Huron, Mich., Mathias and Anton Spaeth of Decatur
and 3 sisters; Miss Johanna Spaeth of Illiopolis and Mrs. Theresa Maucher and Mrs. Sophia
Poppenmier of Germany.
The funeral takes place at 9 o'clock Tuesday from St. James' church on Clay street.
High mass will be said at which four priests will participate. Among the priests present will be
Fathers Tepee, Decatur, Storp of Green Creek, Manuel of Illiopolis, Hager of Belleville, Stern of
Pinckneyville, Cluise of Germantown and Lammert of Effingham.
Bulletin Sentinel(Decatur), 18 April 1896
REMAINS LAID TO REST
A Most Touching Service Over the Remains of Miss Augusta Spaeth Held at The
Saint James Catholic Church This Morning - The Interment
The funeral of the late Augusta Spaeth took place from St. James Catholic church at
9 o'clock this morning, Solemn Requiem Mass being celebrated with Rev. Father Spaeth, brother of
the deceased, as celebrant, Father Manuel, of Illiopolis deacon and Father Brady, of St. Patrick's
church sub-deacon.
The funeral was perhaps the saddest and most touching ever held in this city, for
the reason that the Requiem Mass was said by the trembling voice of broken hearted brother.
The funeral sermon was delivered by Rev. Father Lammert, of Effingham and was a
continuous eulogy to the purity of her life, and her loving disposition of all with whom she came
in contact. He spake of the loss to the world when a life went out that had brightened the lives
of others; and had been so pure an example of the religion of Jesus Christ.
The music for the occasion was furnished by the choir of St. James church. There
was a profusion of beautiful floral offerings and a large concourse of sorrowing friends, including
priests from every part of the state, attended the last sad service. The honorary pall bearers
were eight young ladies clad in white, each carrying a calla lily as a symbol of purity of the
life departed. The honorary pall bearers were Carrie Heckler, Mary Traub, Lena Bertsch, Lizzie
Tuke, Lizzie Frank, Anna Harttenn, Emma Kastner.
The pall bearers were John Marty, Barnard Marty, Frank Keckeisen, Joseph Schanle,
Martin Burchi, and Paul Kastner.
The interment was at Calvary cemetery and the service at the grave was was performed
by Father Teppe.
Bulletin Sentinel(Decatur), 18 April 1896
SPANGLER, Jacob
At twenty minutes to six o'clock last evening, Jacob Spangler, one of the oldest
residents of Macon county, passed from this life at his residence, two and one-half miles east
of Decatur, after many years of usefulness on earth. The cause of his death was erysipelas,
from which he has been a sufferer for a long time. For three weeks past he has been very
ill and his family and sick-bed attendants realized that he could never rally from the attack.
The deceased was 71 years and ten months old. He came to Macon county about 1836 or 1837. His
wife died some twenty years ago. Seven children, two boys and five girls, all grown, survive
him. The deceased was a brother of Mrs. Tait of this city and was a member of Decatur lodge
No. 65 I.O.O.F. The funeral services over his remains will be held to-morrow afternoon at
two o'clock, at the Spangler church, Rev. D.P. Bunn officiating. The Odd Fellows will have
charge of the funeral.
Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 11 May 1886
SPONSLER, George
In this city on Friday, Dec. 18th, GEORGE, son of C.H. and Sarah Sponsler,
aged 6 years.
Decatur Republican, 24 Dec 1874
SPONSLER, James W.
A Springfield dispatch announces the death of James W. Sponsler, formerly of
this city, which took place at Keokuk, on Thursday. No particulars have been received,
except that he died suddenly.
Decatur Daily Republican, 1 Oct 1870
STAFFORD, Henry H.
Henry H. Stafford who has been in poor health for many years, passed away in death
at 9:20 p.m., Tuesday, Oct 15, of heart trouble, at the family residence 325 South Water street
in the 67th year of age.
Mr. Stafford was born in Sussex county , New York, July 16, 1829. In 1836 he came
with his parents to Illinois and settled on a farm in Sangamon county. Nearly twenty years of his
early life was spent on the farm. In 1851 he was married to Miss Lauretta Ross of Sangamon county.
Her death occurred in 1858. In the fall of 1856, he he moved to Decatur and secured a position as
fireman at Frank Priest’s old mill, which was then located on Decatur street. After a year’s service
he was placed in charge of an engine. The mill was burned down in 1864. In 1861 Mr. Stafford enlisted
in Company A, Eighth Illinois Vol. Infantry which was organized in this city and of which Geo S.
Durfee was captain. After his term of service he returned to the mill. In 1868, he was married to
Lydia A. Wright, at Riverton. Two children was the result of the first marriage. They are Orlando
C. Stafford, of this city and Mrs. Lauretta Morris, of Sangamon county. By the second union six
children were born, two of whom died in infancy, the others are Mrs. Eleanor Miller of Chicago, Mrs.
Grace Houghton of Chicago, Miss Leota and Charles H. Stafford of this city.
Mr. Stafford was a member of the Odd Fellows and Patriarchs Militant and had occupied
all the official chairs and attended the grand lodge and encampments. He was always prominent in
the order and was highly respected and liked by all who knew him.
He had been engineer at the Hatheld mill continuously since 1870 though the property
had changed hands several times. During the greater portion of his residence here he had occupied
the house on South Water street.
Last February he had a sever attack of the grip, which later caused heart trouble.
He had been bedfast for about five weeks.
Decatur Weekly Republican, Decatur IL, 17 Oct 1895
STAFFORD, Rodney N.
Rodney N. Stafford died at 8 a.m. Thursday, Jan 17 at his home two and
one-half miles northwest of the city aged 6? years. Lung fever was the cause of death.
Mr. Stafford was a veteran of the Civil war and lately had suffered greatly on account
of two wounds he received during the war.
Mr. Stafford’s mother-in-law, Mrs. Mary Van Ornam, aged 98 years, died
about 1 week ago. A wife and three children survive Mr. Stafford.
The funeral will be Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the residence.
The Daily Review, Decatur Illinois, 17 Jan 1901, pg. 5
STAHL, Jacob
Jacob Stahl died at 6:30 o'clock Sunday evening at his home in Oakley, after a
long illness of pneumonia. He was 73 years old and leaves an aged wife and five children. The
children are William Stahl, Mrs. Anna McCormick, Mrs. Florence Lehew, Mrs. William Cressler and
Mrs. Henry Harpstrite.
The body will be brought to Decatur and the funeral will be held at 2 o'clock this
afternoon from the Free Methodist church on North Edward street. The interment will be at
Greenwood.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 18 Dec 1894
The funeral of Jacob Stahl, who died at his home in Oakely township on Sunday,
of pneumonia, aged 73 years, took place this afternoon from the Free Methodist church in
Decatur. The deceased leaves a widow and five children. The chilren are William Stahl, Mrs.
Anna McCormick, Mrs. Florence Lehew, Mrs. William Cressler and Mrs. Henry Harpstrite.
Decatur Weekly Republican, 20 Dec 1894
STALEY, John F.
JOHN F. STALEY DIES
Death Comes in College Street After Heart Attack Early Sunday
John Franklin Staley, 1712 North College street, died in his home Sunday morning
at 5:10 o'clock. His death followed a heart attack.
Mr. Staley was born in Forsyth on Feb. 1, 1882. He married Bertha Stella Hegy
in Vandalia, June 2, 1901. He leaves his wife and his father, Thomas Staley, both of Decatur.
He also leaves the following children; Mrs. Ferrell Bernard, Mildred Staley, and John Franklin
Staley, Jr., all of Decatur. He leaves also two brothers; Luther and Ed Staley, both of Blue
Island. Mr. Staley was a member of the Methodist church and of the Modern Woodmen in Vandalia.
Funeral services will be in the Dawson & Wikoff funeral chapel at 10 o'clock
Tuesday morning. Burial will be in South Hill cemetery.
Decatur Evening Herald, 9 Sep 1929
STAPP, James Thomas Burbridge
THE DARK ANGEL
Death of James T.B. Stapp
James T.B. Stapp died at the residence of his niece Mrs. A.E. Harrison, yesterday,
at twelve o'clock noon. The deceased had been very low for several days and death was not
unexpected. The immediate cause of his death was paralysis of the throat which had prevented him
taking nourishment since last Tuesday. Two years ago he became partially paralyzed as the result
of a fall while raising from a chair. His advanced age made his recovery impossible and he
gradually failed until his death as noted. The funeral services will be held next Wednesaday
but at what hour has not yet been determined.
JAMES B. STAPP,
the deceased was born in Woodford county, Kentucky, April 13, 1804. He was of
Scotch-Irish parentage and was of a family of nine children. His father dying, the family moved
to Illinois in the year 1816, settling at Kaskaskia. Previous to this he had received such
educational advantages as the schools of that early period afforded, and after coming to this
state he embraced the opportunities of this character offered by the school at Kaskaskia.
In 1818, Illinois was admitted to the union and the capital was removed from
Kaskaskia to Vandalia. Upon organization of the state government, Mr. Stapp was appointed to
a clerkship in the office of the state auditor. This position he filled for four years when,
upon the resignation of the auditor, he was appointed by Gov. Reynolds to fill the vacancy.
He was twice elected by the legislature to fill the office, but resigned after five years
service, to accept the position of cashier of the Bank of the State of Illinois, at Vandalia,
in which capacity he served for thirteen years. During the Black Hawk war he served upon the
staff of Gov. Reynolds. Upon the commencement of hostilities between the United States and
Mexico, he enlisted in the Third Illinois Infantry and was elected adjutant, serving throughout
the war in General Taylor's army. In 1849, Taylor being president, Mr. Stapp was appointed
receiver of the United Stated Land Office at Vandalia, which position he resigned in 1855
having determined to changed his residence.
In 1857 he removed to Decatur where he made his home until his death. His
relations with the state government, and public men and measures of the times were such as
were afforded but to a few. He was intimately acquainted with the prominent men of his day,
and had extensive knowledge of the political history of that period. After removing to this
city Mr. Stapp retired from active business, and never re-entered public life, devoting himself
to the improvement of his property and the enjoyment of such social and intellectual pleasures
as his tastes inclined him. As a man he was generous and kind. The fortune with which he was
blessed, was not used to gratify the desires of its possessor, but for the public good. His
charities were numerous. When it was proposed by the members of the old Franklin street
Methodist church to erect a new house of worship, Mr. Stapp presented the society with twelve
thousand dollars. This resulted in the erection of the fine building on the corner of Franklin
and East Eldorado streets, which the church society, as a mark of appreciation of the generous
bequest, called Stapp's Chapel.
He was a zealous christian and his faith in Him who went about doing good never
wavered, but grew with him, and was the pillar upon which he leaned in the dark hour of his
afflictions. He is dead, but the memory of his good deeds will make his name honored by all
who knew him.
Decatur Review, 1 January 1883
DUST TO DUST
Funeral Obsequies of the Late James T.B. Stapp
As announced the funeral services over the body of the late James T.B. Stapp were
held. yesterday at Stapp's Dhapel. There was a large attendance, particularly of our older people,
who were acquainted with the deceased in his life. The pulpit was heavily draped in black but
its sombre appearance was relieved by the rich floral offerings which were displayed about it.
The more noticeable of these was a large pillow of smilax, tube roses, tea roses, white carnation,
pinks and hyacinths, upon which, in blue everlastings was the legend, "Our Brother." A large
cross, also of tea roses, tube roses, white carnation pinks, hyacinths and smilax was placed at
the right of the desk, and the pillar, made of the same kinds of flowers, was placed at the left.
These offerings were from the church.
Upon the casket which rested just within the chancel was a beautiful cross of tea
and tube roses interspersed with white carnation pinks. After prayer by Rev. Musgrove, and a hymn
by the choir, the Ninetieth psalm was read by Elder Buck. Rev. Musgrove then delivered the
funeral sermon, his text being "Thou shalt come to thy grave in thy full age, like a shock of
corn cometh in his season." The sermon was an able one, and at the request of many of our readers
will be published in to-morrow's issue. At the conclusion of the sermon, the body was removed
to the hearse in waiting and taken to Greenwood, followed by a long line of carriages. Here the
services were concluded by Dr. Davies and the body consigned to the grave. The pallbearers were
J.R. Race, M. Stafford, William Bowers, J.W. Haworth, J.R. Gorin, Geo. Priest, J.J. Peddecord, and
Isaac Shellabarger.
Decatur Review, 4 January 1883
A TRIBUTE
To the Memory of the Late James T.B. Stapp, Synopsis of Rev. Musgrove's Sermon
It was our intention to publish in this morning's issue the sermon delivered by
Rev. Musgrove, at the funeral of the late James T.B. Stapp, but owing to a disarrangement of our
plans we can only give a portion of it.
The text: "Thou shalt come to thy grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn in
his season," was from Job V, 26. The reverend gentleman after discussing death in reference to
men in general, the fears which it aroused, the terrors which it too often inspired, the grief
which accompanied it, spoke ot its importance to all, and to those especially who have prepared
themselves by a life of righteousness for the eternal home on high; for, in the words of Rev.
Musgrove, "It is the passage through which we pass to our eternal destiny." There is no death
to the Christian, "what seems so is transition." "Those who are redeemed by the Blood of Christ,
shall come to their death 'as a shock of corn cometh in his season'. Referring to the calm
peacefulness of mind with which the dying Christian contemplates eternity the speaker said of the
deceased: "How willing he was to die! How often I have heard him say I am not only willing, but
ready and waiting to die. To be willing to die is an evidence of the possession of faith which
is the 'substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen'. Up to the hour of his
leaving this world his mind was preserved in a holy calmness; he glowed with that hope which can
alone result from a lively faith in the cross of their Savior."But on this occasion when we meet to improve the death of a faithful Christian, I
would especially urge the importance of a due preparation for death. It is not enough that you
hear the gospel, if you are not possessed of the blessing of its great salvation. The food spread
upon the table will not avail for your nouishment if a diseased appetite or deranged mind induces
you to turn from it in disgust. And how shall you escape if you neglect so great salvation? Not
if you scor, if you ridicule, if you persecute the gospel; but if you merely neglect it, 'how shall
you escape?' Happy, thrice happy, are those who, after a life spent in the service of Christ,
'come to the grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn in his season.'"
Such was the blessedness of our dear departed friend. After a busy and active
service in the cause of the Redeemer, he was removed to the 'bosom of his Father and his God',
far beyond the trials, the temptaions, the afflictions of this life".
"His last years were made pleasant and comfortable by the kind care and tender
watchfulness of those in whose home he died. Never can child, husband, wife, son, daughter,
brother, or sister be more tenderly cared for, or more patiently dealt with in the decline of
life than was our departed brother. But he is gone to rest and may we all enjoy that rest with
him throughout eternity".
Decatur Review, 5 January 1883
STARK, Elizabeth
Mrs. Elizabeth Stark died at 7:45 Wednesday night at the family residence, 945 East Sangamon
street. Her death was caused by a complication of diseases after an illness of nine weeks. She was 70
years old and leaves four daughters and two sons, as follows: Jane Alsbury, Mary Reeves, Flora Fisk,
Minta Jester and Timothy Stark, all of Decatur, and Jefferson Stark of Nokomis.
The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon from the Salvation Army barracks.
The interment will be at Greenwood.
The Daily Review (Decatur), 2 Feb 1905,
SALVATION ARMY HAS FUNERAL
More Help Comes for the Suffering Family of Mrs. Jester
The funeral of Mrs. Elizabeth Stark was held yesterday afternoon at
2 o'clock at her home, at the corner of East Sangamon and North Calhoun
streets. It was conducted by the Salvation Army. There was but a brief
service at the house and one somewhat longer at the barracks.
Mrs. Stark is the mother of Mrs. Jester about whom a communication
appeared first in The Review several days ago. She was one of the family
so greatly poverty-stricken and described by "One who Knows" as so
worthy of assistance. She was 76 years old and for some time had been
sick in bed with a complication of diseases due to her old age.
The daughter, Mrs. Jester did all in her power and limited resource
for her old mother. She has devoted all her attention to waiting on her,
but for several days before her death it was definitely known there was
little hope.
As a result of her mother's sickness, Mrs. Jester was forced to
give up what work she had been doing. The family has been as near
starvation to still live as can be. Lately people have realized their
condition, partly through the item in "The Review" and food and clothing
have been taken to the house.
A ton of coal was sent to the house yesterday to keep the family
warm. This came half from the Decatur Coal Company and half from a
subscription started by two young women, assisted by Alderman Frank
Meredith.
Besides this the same young women got enough money by taking around
a paper to pay all the back rent due on the woman's little house. She
has owed for 3 months, at $3.00 per month.
All this greatly relieves the situation and with the food in the
house which has been sent there by friends and citizens whose hearts
have been touched, the woman and her little flock are better fixed for
awhile at least. Mrs. Stark left four daughters and two sons, as
follows: Jane Alsbury, Mary Reeves, Flora Fisk, Minta Jester, Timothy
Stark all of Decatur and Jefferson Stark of Nokomis.
Decatur Review, February 4, 1905
Submitted by: Andrew & Belinda Clayton
The above is the copy of my great, great grandmother's obit, who died in Decatur, Il. Would
like to hear from anyone who has information about this family.
STARR, Elwood C.
In this city, on the 9th inst., Elwood C. Starr, son of J.G. and
Susan Starr. Age 10 years, one month and three days.
Illinois State Chronicle (Decatur), 22 Jan 1857
STARR, Harry C.
HARRY C. STARR DIED THURSDAY
End of an Illness of Several Months With Bright's Disease
Harry C. Starr died at his home, 1140 South Walnut street, at 10 o'clock Thursday morning.
His quiet death ended a long suffering from Bright's disease, with which he had been afflicted several
months.
His death came somewhat unexpectedly, though his family and relatives had been looking for
it over a week. His two brothers, W.H. and J.S. Starr, had just left him to get a little rest. They
had been staying up nights with him and were worn out. His pulse seemed stronger and they thought he
was in better condition than he had been for some time. Only a few minutes after they left, he died.
HIS ILLNESS
Mr. Starr had been confined to his bed for four weeks before his death. Bright's disease
attacked him last fall or winter, and he could get no relief. In the hope of improving his condition he
went to Alabama last February, and stayed there six weeks. Instead of improving, his condition became
worse and he returned home. Since then his decline has been steady.
LIFE SPENT IN DECATUR
All of Harry Starr's thirty-six years were passed in Decatur. He was born here, reared
here, educated here. He was the son of J.G. Starr and brother of W.H. and J.S. Starr.
Mr. Starr married Miss Nora A. Radcliff fourteen or fifteen years ago. She with three
children, two girls and a boy, survive him. The children are Marlin, Bernice and Grace.
In business life, Mr. Starr was associated with his brother, J.S. Starr, under the firm
name of J.S. & H.C. Starr, wholesalers of buggies and other vehicles.
Mr. Starr was deeply interested in Riverside and its improvements. Though not in the
firm which opened the addiiton, he aided greatly in building it up. He himself built a good house
there and had a fine home in the addtion.
Mr. Starr was a member of the First Methodist church. He was also a Knight Templar, and
a member of the Ionic lodge, A.F. & A.M. and of Macon chapter, R.A.M. He was past worthy patron
of the Order of the Eastern Star.
THE FUNERAL
The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon from the residence on South Walnut street.
The Knight Templars will probably have charge. The burial will be in Greenwood cemetery.
The Decatur Review, 14 Jul 1904
STARR, Paul B.
Paul B. Starr died at 5 o’clock Sunday morning at the family residence,
1915 East Elderado street. He was thirty-one years old last September. His death was
caused by a complication of diseases his ailment dating back to the world war, when
he was gassed.
Mr. Starr was born in Decatur Sept. 2, 1895, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Starr.
This has always been his home, though much of his time was spent elsewhere. He enlisted
in the Eleventh United States Infantry at Ogden Utah, Jam 10, 1917. He saw service on
the Mexican border and later overseas. Following the war, he was in a number of government
hospitals in an effort to regain his health, but received no permanent benefit. He was a
member of the Disable American Veterans association in Chicago. He is survived by his
wife and two children, Helen Virginia and Patsy Lee? and his grandmother, Mrs. Anna L.
James of Decatur. The body was taken to L. A. Monson, funeral director and prepared for
burial.
The funeral will be held at 2:30 o’clock, Tuesday afternoon at the Monson
chapel. The burial will be in Greenwood cemetery.
Decatur Review, Decatur IL, 28 Feb 1927, pg. 3
STARR, Susannah K.
Susannah K. Starr was born in York county, Pennsylvania, December 27, 1825, and
was therefore in her 64th year. Near the place of her birth she met Joseph G. Starr, to whom
she was married about 45 years ago. They emigrated to Decatur in 1856, and Mrs. Starr had seen
so much flat country that she absolutely refused to remain here unless her husband would buy the
lot at 345 West Main street where the present Starr home is. This location was high. Accordingly
Mr. Starr bought the lot, had the hazel brush and wild forest cleaned off the next day, and then
began the erection of a home. Here she lived a happy wife and mother. In 1878 her husband died.
Mrs. Starr was the mother of nine sons. Three died in infancy and were buried in the old Quaker
cemetery of York county, Pa. Two other sons Charles and Grant died very young, and Elwood died
in 1857, aged about ten years. The living sons are William H., Joseph S., and Harry C. Starr.
The deceased was a woman of kindly heart, faithful to every duty in life, affectionate and tender
to her children. The coming of age brought little change in her relations to them. Though they
married and had families they were sill her boys, and it was her fashion to talk to them often
and tell her friends how very proud she was of her sons.
Mrs. Starr was early a member of the Methodist church, and was ever a zealous,
active worker. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star when it was first organized
years ago, and upon its recent revival she became a member of the new charter. This order will
have charge of the services at the grave on Friday. The funeral will be held at the family
residence, No. 345 West Main street, on Friday afternoon at 3:30 oclock, Rev. James Miller
officiating.
Saturday Herald (Decatur), 14 Sep 1889
She was a woman of rare strength of character, and still had all the sweetness and
kindness of a true wife and mother. And while she was all that was good and kind and tender
in those relations, she was as generous and neighborly in her charitable deeds as it was
possible to be. There was no case of sickness or distress in her neighborhood that she did not
minister to with a generosity that knew no bounds. Night or day, in fair weather or foul,
she was always ready to answer the summons for help to those who needed her attention. And
so it came to be understood that she was one of those kind ministering angels whose visits
to the sick bed are always so welcome, and many a tear will be dropped on her bier by those
who have been the recipients of her kindness. She was emphatically that best of all earthly
blessings, a good woman, and not only her children and her grand children, but a host of
friends who kenw and loved her will forever bless her memory.
The sad circumstances of her death call for the deepest sympathy from everybody.
The son, whose zeal for the protection and safety of his mother led him to fire the shot
which took away his best friend, is well-nigh overwhelmed with grief, and the most churlish
cannot find it in his heart to begrudge him the tear of pity and the heartfelt greeting of
true sympathy. Her second son, Joseph, is absent on business of the firm, and will hear of
the tragic death of his mother today. Her eldest son, Wm. H. Starr, whom everybody in
Decatur knows and loves, is none the less grief-stricken than his brothers, but will have
the comfort and satisfaction of bearing with him through life the recollection of the
conversation he had with her only yesterday afternoon. She spoke of the loneliness she
had experienced since he had moved a few blocks away while erecting his new house, and of
the dread she had of the prowling burglars. She also spoke of the joy she experienced on
the knowledge that he would move back within a week or two and occupy his elegant new home.
She said she was feeling in much better health, and though she would be able to accompany him
to Washington on the occasion of the Knight Templar' Conclave, which she had proposed doing
until recently she had given it up on account of the state of her health. She spoke of
the repairs on her house, and its refurbishing, which was to have been begun to-day. She
was more cheerful than usual, (and she was always inclined to be full of life and gayety,)
thinking of the joys in store for her when she could have her son's family so near to her.
Last week she presented her son William a magnificent gold watch, as a surprise to him, and
he now prizes the gift more highly than ever.
Decatur Republican, 12 Sep 1889
Read more about the
tragic death of Mrs. Starr.
MRS. STARR'S BURIAL
The Funeral One of the Largest Ever Seen in Decatur - Beautiful Floral Tributes
Funeral services over the remains of the late Mrs. Susanna K. Starr were held at 3:30 o'clock
yesterday afternoon at the family residence, No. 345 West Main street. It was one of the largest and most
impressive funerals ever seen in Decatur. Several hundred friends of the family were in attendance, filling
the family residence and also the spacious new home of Mr. W.H. Starr, next door, whilst all the space in
the yards between the two houses was filled with chairs, occupied by ladies, and a large number of ladies
and gentlemen had to stand in the yards. Superintendent Ferguson kindly stopped the running of electric
cars past the house from 3 o'clock until after the services were over and the long funeral train had moved
away toward the cemetery. This was donw as a precautionary measure to guard against accidents by horses
becoming frightened. The services were conducted by the Rev. James Miller, pastor of the First Methodist
church, of which the deceased was a member. He began by reading from the writings of St. Paul and then
offered a fervent prayer for the comforting of the sorrow-stricken family. An impressive hymn was then
beautifully sung by Mrs. W.C. Armstrong, Mrs. Oscar Spaulding, Mr. Bert Johnson and Prof. S.M. Lutz. The
clergyman then spoke briefly and feelingly of the character of the deceased woman in her family, church
and social relations. He spoke words of comfort to her bereaved sons and sorrowing sister, reminding
them of the blessed assurance the Christian has that a pure and upright life on earth is but a preparation
for a life of eternal happiness in the world to come. After another appropriate song by the quartette
the casket was borne to the hearse by the following pall-bearers: Messrs. J.R. Gorin, Silas Packard,
William Bowers, J.R. Miller, A.M. Werner and W.E. Nelson. There were nearly ninety carriages in the
funeral train which moved in the following order: Carriage containing the officiating clergymen;
members of Decatur chapter No. 111, Order of the Eastern Star; the hearse, escorted by members of
Beaumanoir commandery Knights Templar, of which the eldest son of the deceased, Sir Knight William H.
Starr, is eminent commander. Then came twenty-five employes of the firm of J.G. Starr & Son, and
a very full representation of the membership of the Women's Christian Temperence Union, followed by
the mourning relatives and sympathizing friends in carriages. The services at the grave were conducted
by the ladies of the Order of the Eastern Star.
THE FLORAL OFFERINGS
The floral offerings were beautiful and elaborate. Among the handsomest designs were
the following:
Pillow of immortelles inscribed "Our Mother in Heaven," from Mrs. Starr's three sons.
Pillow and floral anchor and crescent, from the Calumet club of which Mr. Harry Starr is a member.
Floral lyre, from the members of the First Methodist Episcopal church.
Anchor and star, from Mrs. W.H. Linn and Mrs. Benton Blackstone
Floral star, from the members of Decatur chapter No. 111, Order of the Eastern Star.
Gates Ajar, from Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Bullard
Pillows of tulips, from the Decatur Women's Christian Union
A beautiful design emblematic of faith, hope and charity, from Sagmuller, Campbell & Co., Cincinnati, O.
Basket of pansies, from Mrs. Goodman and daughter
Shief of wheat, from Mr. and Mrs. J.S. Bixby and Eva and Joe Bixby
White star of immortelles bearing the initials "S.K." from the employees of J.G. Starr & Son
Open book, from the Ruf Leather company of Jackson, O.
Maltese cross of red geraniums, from Beaumanoir commandery Knights Templar
The Decatur Daily Despatch, 14 Sep 1889
STEARNS, Belle W. (Nicholson)
Born: 25 Sept 1861 in Long Creek Twp, Macon Co, IL
Died: 27 Dec 1933 Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: North Fork cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: James Proctor Nicholson & Elizabeth (Hawks) Nicholson
Married: 30 Sep 1880 in Macon Co, IL to Charles Stearns
Children: Orville, Velma, Roxie, & Russell
STEARNS, Charles D.
Born: 10 Jun 1850 in IL
Died: 20 Feb 1908 in Macon Co, IL
Buried: North Fork Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents:
Married: 30 Sep 1880 in Macon Co, IL to Belle Nicholson
Children: Orville, Velma, Roxie, & Russell
STEARNS, Mrs.
Mrs. Stearns, wife of Joseph T. Stearns, died this morning at 2 o'clock, at her home,
five miles northeast of the city, of heart disease, aged 65 years. The time of the funeral will be
announced later.
The funeral services over the remains of the late Mrs. Joseph T. Stearns occurred Tuesday
afternoon at 1 o'clock from the home of the deceased, five miles northeast of the city. The deceased
leaves a husband and eight children, who are all married except one. Interment in Spangler's
cemetery.
Decatur Weekly Republican, 5 Dec 1889
STEARNS, Orville J.P.
Born: 19 Aug 1881
Died: 22 Dec 1886 in Macon Co, IL
Buried: North Fork Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Charles & Belle (Nicholson) Stearns
STEARNS, Velma H.
Born: 17 Feb 1894 in IL
Died: 29 Feb 1908 in Macon Co, IL
Buried: North Fork Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Charles & Belle (Nicholson) Stearns
STEELE, Frederick McPherson
Died in Decatur Nov. 18, 1880, Frederick McPherson Steele, son of Major
George R. and Mrs. S.J. Steele, aged five years, two months and nine days. Little Freddie
had been sick with scarlet fever, but had so far recovered as to b e again up and playing
cheerfully about the house, and was though to be really out of danger; but on Saturday
last he took cold by some means unknown. Fever, with dropsy, set in, and nothing could
be done to check the disorder or relieve his sufferings, and he passed away this morning
at one o'clock and 40 minutes. He was a bright, promising child, and his sudden demise
is a source of almost inconsolable grief to his stricken parents. The funeral services
will transpire from the family home at ten o'clock Satruday morning.
Decatur Daily Republican, 18 Nov 1880
Little Freddie at Rest
This morning at 10 o'clock, the friends and relatives of Mr. and Mrs. Geo.
R. Steele, met at their residence on College street, to attend the funeral exercises of
their little son Fredide, aged five years and five months, the notice of whose death
appeared in our Thursday edition. The services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Musgrove of
Stapp's Chapel. The choir consisted of Mr. C.B. Prescott, Mrs. A.W. Conklin and Miss
Nettie Bowers. The exercises opened by singing the 753d hymn of the M.E. collection,
"Jesus while our hearts are bleeding." After prayer and reading of Scriptural selections,
another hymn was sung from the Sabbath School collections, which was a great favorite
of Freddie's, and which his mother had taught him and often sung with him, "I am Jesus'
little lamb." Very appropriate and touching remarks were made by the pastor, alluding
to the broken link in the family circle. His little chair was sitting in its accustomed
place draped in mourning and a floral design "Vacant" was placed upon it. The coffin
was of pure white, trimmed in satin and covered with floral tributes. A very fine floral
anchor was contributed by the members of the railway mail service connected with the
Wabash railroad, with which Mr. Steele is connected. Just before little Freddie died,
after suffering hours of acute pain in a few quick moments, he inquired for his little
flag. It was brought to him in his last moments, and the same little toke was placed
upon his left breast in the coffin. After the services sorrowing friends bore him to
Greenwood cemetery. The pall-bearers were Harry Lytle, Harry Hays, Percy Myers and
Willie Shellabarger.
Decatur Daily Republican, 20 Nov 1880
STEELE, Major George R.
At 9:10 o’clock this morning surrounded by his family at the late residence
on West Main street, Major George R. Steele passed peacefully away to that “bourne from
whence no travellor returns.” Maj. Steele’s health has been precarious for a number of years
and yet, under conditions of health that would have made less resolute men give up the battle
of life, he continued at his post of duty with a devotion which won the admiration of all who
knew him. But six weeks ago tomorrow he was stricken down in the office while at work and was
taken home where he lingered until death came. The cause of his death was a progressive heart
trouble complicated with a dropsical affection of the chest. He suffered much during the time
he was sick but the end came as peacefully as a dream.
Major George R. Steele was born in Springfield, Ohio, December 12, 1836, and was
one of a family of four children of whom James F. Steele, Mrs R.J. Robarts and Mrs. Jack Renshaw,
all of this city survive him. A brother, Joseph Steele died at Champaign. When he grew to
young manhood he entered business with his father in Ohio but the hard times of these days soon
determined the fact that the young man must leave the parental roof and go out in the world for
himself and right here the first of that spirit of self reliance which characterized his after
life was mad manifest. On the 4th day of December, 1856, he bade his home goodbye and turned
his face toward Illinois. On the 9th day of December he reached Decatur for the first time but
passing on he stopped at Springfield, but being unsuccessful in finding employment he went to
Bloomington where he arrived December 12, 1856. There he was more successful finding temporary
employment with the telegraph company as messenger and repairer. On the first day of July the
next year he went to Chenoa and engaged with the engineer corps on the P.O.R.R., now the T.P.
& W. Railway. Work was suspended the following winter and his family having in the meantime
come from Ohio locating in Decatur he came to Decatur in the winter of 1857 and went to work as
a carpenter continuing until the war broke out.
In the spring of 1861 a local company was organized in Decatur called the Decatur
Greys. The officers of this company were Captain J.H. Nale; first lieutenant D.S. Shellabarger;
second lieutenant M.F. Kanan. In July, 1861, this company voted to tender its service to the
government. The offer was accepted. D.S. Shellabarger being situated so that he could not leave,
M.F. Kanan was promoted to first lieutenant and George R. Steele was elected second lieutenant.
This company became Company A, 41st Illinois Infantry commanded by Col. I.C. Pugh of Decatur.
This regiment won for itself a brilliant military record on the field. Beginning with Forts Henry
and Donelson it took part in nearly all the important engagements in the west and south and was
mustered out after the last man in rebellion against the government had laid down his arms.
After the battle of Fort Donelson, Lieut. Steele was made adjutant of the regiment
and served with distinction in that capacity, attracting the attention of his superiors, and after
the battle of Corinth, by order of President Lincoln, Lieut. Steele was promoted to be aide-de-camp
on the staff of Gen. McPherson with the rank of captain. While acting in that capacity he was
frequently mentioned in orders for meritorious services on the battle field and once received a
gold medal in recognition of gallant conduct.
When McPherson in 1864 was assigned to the department and Army of the Tennessees with
headquarters at Nashville and while he and his staff were on their way there, arriving at Cairo,
Capt. Steele and two or three other members of the staff were given a leave of absence and he spent
his vacation in Decatur. It was during this visit home that he won and married the woman of his
choice who has blessed his life and gave him inspiration until the day of his death.
When his leave of absence, which was short, had expired he returned to the field.
July 29 of that year the terrible battle of Atlanta was fought. In that engagement Gen. McPherson
was killed. Just prior to his death the general had sent Captain Steele to direct Sprague’s brigade
which was in a precarious position an while performing this task the gallant aid came near losing
his life having ridden directly into the enemy’s line but rather than submit to capture he took the
chances of wheeling his horse and riding away. When he returned from his mission he found his
commander died. Being detailed for the purpose, he took the 41st Illinois and escorted the body
of McPherson to Clyde, Ohio, where it was laid to rest.
From Ohio, he came home and reported by letter to the secretary of war and later at
the request of Gen. Hickenlooper, he was assigned to the staff of Gen. Frank P. Blair where he
served until after the war closed. In March, 1865, he was brevetted major of volunteers for
meritorious services.
Major George B. Steele’s military record was above reproach. It was brilliant,
courageous, patriotic and distinguished. He rose from the carpenter’s bench to be the trusted
aid of such commanders as McPherson and Blair. His military record will stand as an example in
this community of what a common American citizen may do amid the thunders of shot and shell when
his country needs defenders and where true American citizenship and popular government is put to
the severest test.
The war over Major Steele returned home from the battle field to renew the battle
of civil life and it may be said of him, as of a million other men who went to the war that the
best and most important years of his life were spent to defense of his county, the years when
foundation for future, financial prosperity are laid, the years when men’s business abilities are
formed and for these reasons he was not successful in making a fortune. While he was rich in
patriotism and that loyalty which becomes resplendent when tried by fire he died poor, as we
estimate riches, but in the full knowledge of having done his full duty to his county his family
and his fellowman and after all this is the best legacy which a man can leave.
July 1, 1869, Major Steele was appointed assistant postmaster under Postmaster
Usrey and June 20, 1871, he became a clerk in the railway mail service. In less than a year he
became so efficient that he was transferred from his route on the Illinois Central and made
chief clerk of the most important division in the county, namely, that from Lafayette to Quincy
on the Wabash. His efficiency was second to none in the railway mail service and he continued
in the service until 1888 when he was elected county treasurer. At the end of his term of office
he was made deputy postmaster by J. R. Hubbard and held that position until Mr. Hubbard’s
successor came in 1894. Since that time he has served as assistant in the county treasurer’s
office under Treasurer Patterson.
He was a member of Grace M.E. church and was prominent in Masonic, Knights of
Pythias and Grand Army circles being a member of these different societies. To him perhaps more
than any other man is due the organization of the Grand Army of the Republic. He was instrumental
largely in organizing the first Post in the United States which was organized in Decatur April 6,
1866, and was the first adjutant. He always took a great interest in Grand Army matters and was
always ready to help a de serving comrade and quick to detect a professional or a sham. He was
jealous of the honor of the Grand Army of the Republic and of the comrades of which it consists.
He was united in marriage with Miss Sallie Moore, daughter of Gen. Jesse H. Moore
when he was home on leave of absence from the army April 3, 1864. The union was blessed with
five children three of whom with their mother survive him. The children are Mrs. Belle Donahue,
Mrs. Jessie Wangelin, of Belleville and Charles Steele. Frederick McPherson died at the age of
5 years and Katie died at the age of 11 years. He was a kind and indulgent father and his home
was a throne of love and kindness.
In the death of Major George R. Steele the community loses a good and honest citizen,
one who in peace or in war measured up to his responsibilities. As a man he honored his country,
his community and his family. The time of the funeral has not yet been decided upon but it will
probably be on Friday or Saturday. It will be conducted by the Masonic fraternity and will be
attended by Dunham Post, G.A.R.
The Daily Republican, Decatur IL, 19 May 1897, pg. 8
STEELE, Sarah Jane Handley (Moore)
SARAH M. STEELE, OLD RESIDENT, DIES IN PEORIA
Member of Prominent Family Had Been in Failing Health
DAUGHTER COL. MOORE
Mrs. Sarah Jane Handley Moore Steele died at a sanitarium in Peoria Sunday, according to
word received Monday morning. The body will be brought to Decatur for burial. The funeral will be
private. The family requests that no flowers be sent.
Mrs. Steele had been in bad health for some time, and death was not unexpected. She was
born in Nashville, Ill., July 22, 1844. The greater part of her life was passed in Decatur.
FATHER WAS COL. MOORE
Her father was Jesse H. Moore, before the Civil was a Methodist minister in the Illinois
conference, and stationed at Decatur. During the Civil was he was a general in the Union army and
afterward United States' consul to Peru. She was the sister of the late Admiral C.B.T. Moore. Mrs.
Steele was active in the Woman's Relief Corps and the Order of the Eastern Star.
She was married to George R. Steele in Decatur April 2, 1864. Three children were born
to them, Mrs. Belle S. Donahue of Decatur, Cal., Mrs. Richard Wangelin, who died several years ago,
and Charles M. Steele of New York city. Besides the surviving sona dn daughters, she leaves two
grandchildren, Richard S. Wangelin, who lives at Belleview, and Miss Ruth Donahue of Decatur and
San Diego; a sister, Mrs. Ellen Moore Saunders of Dallas, Tex., and a brother, Harry M. Moore,
living at East St. Louis.
Decatur Evening Herald, Decatur, IL, 20 Feb 1928
STEINEN, Mrs. George
DIED, this morning, Mrs. Geo. Steinen, at her residence in this city, after an
illness of three hours. Funeral at the residence of her husband next Sunday.
Daily Republican, 7 Feb 1873
STENGEL, Catherine Elizabeth
Mrs. LeRoy (Catherine Elizabeth) Stengel, 73, of Auburn, formerly of Stonington,
died 10:18 a.m. Saturday (Aug 18, 1979) in Springfield Community Hospital.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday in St Benedict Church, Auburn, with
visitation from 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday and an 8 p.m. wake service at the Berry Funeral Home,
Auburn. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Illiopolis.
Mrs. Stengel was born in Stonington, daughter of Frank J. and Agnes Stork.
She was a member of the St. Benedict Catholic Church, and the Altar and Rosary Society.
She married LeRoy Stengel in 1928.
Surviving are husband of Stonington; sisters, Mrs Kelsey (Mary) Dillman of
Pocahontas; Mrs F. J. (Teresa) DeMichael of Stonington; Mrs. James (Louise) Delahunty of
Decatur. One son and three brothers preceded her in death.
STENGEL, LeRoy Vincent
LeRoy Vincent Stengel, 77 of Auburn, formerly of the Stonington-Illiopolis
area, died 3 p. m. Monday (Sept. 29,1980) in Springfield Community Hospital.
Funeral services will be 9:30 a.m. Thursday in St. Benedicts Church,
Auburn. Visitation will be 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in Berry Funeral Home Auburn, with
7:30 p.m. wake service. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Illiopolis.
Mr. Stengel was a son of Jacob and Mary Stengel. He was a farmer, managed
R.C. Electric and Heating Co. in Auburn, and was a member of St. Benedict Church,
Auburn. Surviving are his sisters, Mrs Orville ( Mary ) Dempsey of Decatur; Mrs Edward
( Lorene ) Carroll of Belleville. One son preceded him in death.
STENGEL, Richard V.
RICHARD STENGEL 17, KILLED IN FARM ACCIDENT MONDAY
Relatives and friends in this community of Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Stengel
and son near Lowder, were shocked Monday afternoon to learn the son was fatally
injured about 10:00 a. m. Monday when he apparently fell from a tractor while plowing
corn on his father's farm. From tracks in the field it appears that the boy was
dragged a great distance after having fell into the cultivator, and the only thing
that stopped the tractor at all was that it ran into another piece of machinery in
the field. His father noticed the tractor stalled and went to the field to find the
boy's body caught in the machinery.
Born in October 1931, the boy lived for some years on a farm west of
Illiopolis and attended Lanesville grade school. Six years ago the family moved to
near Lowder where they have since resided. He was a junior in Virden high school.
He leaves his parents and his grandfathers, Frank Stork of near Stonington
and Jacob Stengel of Illiopolis and a number of relatives in Illiopolis, Stonington
and Decatur.
Funeral services were held a 10 o'clock this (Thursday) morning in St.
Benedict's Catholic Church in Auburn.
Coroner's Inquest
A coroner's jury, which conducted an inquest yesterday in the death
of Richard V. Stengel, of near Lowder, decided the he died from skull fractures
and from severe lacerations over the entire body.
Coroner W. L. Dragoo quoted the youth's father, Leroy Stengel, as
saying that the boy had been caught by a plow behind a tractor. He evidently fell
from the moving tractor into the path of the plow. The father discovered the body.
STEPHAN, Herman
Herman Stephan, a lad aged ten years, died on Sunday afternoon at his parent's
residence on East Prairie street, of enlargement of the liver. His funeral took place from the
German Catholic church yesterday afternoon.
Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 4 May 1886
STEVENS, John
DIED - John Stevens, who was hurt by falling down the stairway at
Germania Hall, died on Monday at the residence of his father, Jos. Stevens, Esq.,
two miles south of town.
Decatur Republican, 24 Dec 1868
STEVENS, Joseph
DUST TO DUST
Death of Joseph Stevens, the First Settler of Macon County
Again we are called upon to record the death of another old settler of Macon
county - not only the oldest but the first settler of the county - JOSEPH STEVENS.
He died on Saturday evening, Dec. 28th, at the residence of Mr. William Deakins, five miles
southeast of this city, at the advanced age of 70 years, 9 months and 21 days. He was
laid in the grave in Mr. Gilead cemetery on yesterday, Rv. Father Crissey, of this city,
officiating.
Deceased was born in the State of New York in the month of March, 1808, and
settled in this county with his father when he was but 18 years old - 57 years ago. Mr.
Stevens was united in marriage to Mary D. Warnick by Elisha Freeman, county commissioner.
Miss Warnick was the daughter of Wm. Warnick, the first sheriff of Macon
county. By his first wife three chilren were born to him - William Henry, Francis M.,
and James M. In 1848 his first wife died. A few years afterward, Mr. Stevens married a
widow, Mrs. Margaret Cunningham. One child, Cyrus, was the result of this union. Mrs.
Stevens is still living aged 62 years. The portrait of "Joe Stevens, the first settler
of Macon county," appears on the first page of John W. Smith's History of Macon county,
compiled in 1876. Deceased was elected treasurer of Macon county in 1835, and served two
years. In 1860 "Uncle Joe" was elected a Justice of the Peace of Decatur township, and
in 1864 was re-elected by a handsome majority.
Deceased was well acquainted with the early history of the county, and it
was his pleasure, in his declining years, to relate many interesting incidents which took
his hearers back to the time of the "deep snow," and even farther.
About the year 1830 deceased was the companion of Abraham Lincoln, our
martyred president, who was then a "farm hand" in this neighborhood, and in company with
him took in all the country dances then so frequent. Then, as now, there was more or less
rivalry among the "fellers," and it so happened that Mr. Lincoln and Mr. Stevens were "gone"
on the same girl; but Stevens, being more stylish in his make-up, invariably monopolized
the young lady's company, leaving his friend out in the cold. In 1860, at the time the
republican state convention was held here, "the rail-splitter" took great pleasure in
shaking hands with his old time friends, and when "Uncle Joe" grasped his hand, some
one asked,
"Mr. Lincoln, do you recollect Mr. Stevens?"
"O yes," replied the President, smiling, "I know him well; he is the chap
who used to beat me out of my girl at country dances 30 years ago."
The meeting of the two young men grown old, was one of immense pleasure
to both, and was often related by deceased in his lifetime, especially whenever the
name of Lincoln was mentioned.
Decatur Weekly Republican, 2 Jan 1879
STEWARD, Louis D.
The funeral of Louis Dalton Steward was held at 1 o'clock Monday afternoon at St.
Peter's A.M.E. church. The services were conducted by Rev. J.H. Sydes. The music was furnished
by the regular choir of the church.
The pallbearers were Riley Jackson, William Mason, John Lawrence, Clarence Johnson,
William Prior and Mahlon Buford. The interment was in Greenwood.
Decatur Review, 17 December 1918
STEWART, Charles A.
Charles A. Stewart, died of typhoid fever at his desolate home in Long Creek
township on Tuesday afternoon at one o’clock, aged 45 years. He leaves a wife and eight
children. The widow and five of her children are down with the measles and none could
enter the death chamber because of their weakness. The death of the father and husband
was the crowning sorrow of the sadly afflicted family. Mr. Stewart was a brother-in-law
of J. A. Cochran and S. C. Davis. He served in the late war as a member of Co. A., 99th
Illinois Regiment and was a member of Dunham Post, 141, G.A.R. this city. The funeral
will take place from North Fork Church in Long Creek on Thursday afternoon at one o’clock.
Decatur Weekly Republican, 7 Mar 1889, pg. 1
STEWART, Rose
Mrs. Rose Stewart died at 3:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon in the family home, 706 West
William street. She had been ill for almost two months following an attack of influenze. She came
to Decatur 30 years ago from Clinton where she was born. She leaves her sisters, Mrs. Katherine
McKelvey, Mrs. A.S. Kazar and Lydia McGowan. Mrs. Stewart was a member of the Methodist church.
The body was taken to the undertaking rooms of J.J. Moran & Sons, where friends may call after
noon today.
Decatur Herald, 17 Jun 1928
STICH, Louis G.
Born: 8 Apr 1848 in Dodge Co, WI
Died: 27 Sep 1929 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Graceland Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents:
Married: 25 Apr 1876 in Macon Co, IL to Mary Evaline Atteberry
Children: Wilbert, Cora & Mary May
STICH, Mary E. (Atteberry)
Born: 27 Aug 1847 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 24 Nov 1930 in Macon, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Graceland Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Thomas & Syrena (Florey) Atteberry
Married: 25 Apr 1876 in Macon Co, IL to Louis G. Stich
Children: Wilbert, Cora & Mary May
STICKEL, Catherine
GONE HOME
Death of a Venerable Lady, Mrs. Stickel, at 150 North Street
The death of Mrs. Catharine Stickel, occurred at 3 o'clock Friday afternoon at 150
West North street, the home of her daughter, Mrs. F.A. Leforgee. She had been ill a week, and
was nearly 89 years of age. She leaves two daughters, Mrs. Caroline Floyd, of Mt. Zion, and
Mrs. F.A. Leforgee, of Decatur, also three sisters in Pennsylvania and a brother, Captain
Umberger, in Kansas.
Catherine Umberger was born in York county, Pa., Sept. 4, 1806. Her father was a
captain in the war of 1812. She was the fourth of twelve children, nine girls and three boys, all
of whom lived to be honored and respected. Both of her parents lived to be over 80 years of age.
At the age of 22 years she was married to John Barton, a pioneer school teacher. Eight children
were born to them, six of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. Two died in infancy, and four died
after having attained their majorities, Mrs. Floyd and Mrs. Leforgee being the only two children
left. On March 7, 1865, she was married to John Stickel, who died five years later. She was a
member of the Church of God for sixty-five years, and for thirty years she had lived in Decatur.
For a number of years she has made her home with her daughter in Decatur.
Daily Republican, 30 Mar 1895
The funeral services over the remains of the late Mrs. John Stickel were held Sunday
afternoon at 3 o'clock from the residence of her daughter Frank Leforgee, No. 150 W. North street,
Rev. Rogers, assisted by Revs. Penhallegon and Howe, officiating. The pall bearers were J.R. Miller,
J. Werner, J. Winebrenner, W.C. Pluck, T.P. Roddy and John Boyer.
Decatur Weekly Republican, 28 Mar 1895
STICKEL, Charles
The funeral of Charles Stickel was held at 1 o'clock Friday afternoon at the Methodist
church in Elwin. The services were conducted by Rev. J.C. Bell, assisted by Rev. J.H. Housman. It
was one of the largest funerals ever held at Elwin.
The music was furnished by a quartet composed of Mrs. May Connard, Miss Lelah
Hopkins, S.S. Hopkins and Walter Combs.
Members of the Knights of Pythias attended in a body. The honorary pall bearers were
members of the Uniform Rank. They were J.H. Hill, Victor Peterson, Henry Shaffer, C.C. Sutter, W.A.
Smith and Rudolph Potrafka. The active pall bearers were Clyde Jones, William Johnson, Marshall
Brown, Ora R. Alberts and Harry Bailey. The interment was at Mt. Gilead cemetery.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 11 Dec 1909
STICKEL, Peter
At his residence in Whealand, June 22d, Mr. Peter Stickel, aged 71 years, 11 months
and 19 days. Mr. Stickel was born at Oxford, Adams Co., Pa., and untied with the M.E. church at
Mechanicsburg, in the same state, in 1830. He came to Illinois in 1860, where he has since lived,
being highly respected by all who knew him. His funeral took place Saturday, June 24th, at Wheatland,
Rev. Horace Reed officiating.
Decatur Republican, 29 Jun 1876
STICKLE, Wesley Clyde
Wesley Clyde Stickle, aged 11 years and nine months, died this morning at the home of
his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.R. Stickle, in Riverside place. Odema of the lungs was the cause of death.
The burial will be in Long Creek to-morrow at 9 a.m.
Decatur Weekly Republican, 24 Mar 1892
STIRES, Wm.
Mr. Wm. Stires, a former citizen of Decatur, died very suddenly on
the 27th ult., and was buried here on the 29th.
Decatur Review, 16 Mar 1871
STIVERS, Eliza
Mrs. Eliza Stivers, wife of C.W. Stivers, died last night at ten o’clock at the
family residence in this city. The cause of her death was consumption from which she has long
been a sufferer. A husband and three children survive her. The oldest child is about four
years old and the youngest seven weeks. The remains will be taken to Oconee on Tuesday for
burial.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 14 Mar 1886
The funeral of Mrs. C.W. Stivers will take place this morning at nine o’clock
from the family residence No. 630 East Williams street. Rev. Dr. Vosburgh, of the Baptist
church will conduct the services. The remains will be taken to Oconee on the ten o’clock
train for interment.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 16 Mar 1886
STODDARD, Earl
TWO CHILDREN IN THREE DAYS
Little Brothers Victims of Summer Complaint
Earl Stoddard, little two year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Stoddard, 2385 East
Locust street, died at 9 o'clock Monday morning at the residence. This is the second child of Mr.
and Mrs. Stoddard to die within the last three days. The funeral of their little son, Lloyd, was
held Sunday afternoon.
The deaths of both children were caused by summer complaint.
Earl Stoddard was two years old on May 20. He is survived by his parents, two brothers,
Floyd, who was a twin of Lloyd, and Clarence and a sister, Mildred. The funeral will be announced
later.
The funeral of Lloyd Stoddard was held Sunday afternoon at the residence, conducted by
Rev. R.R. Ray. It was largely attended. Burial was in Greenwood. Surreys and buggies were used.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, Monday, 2 Sep 1918
STOGSDILL, Charles Edward
Born: 6 march 1866 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Died: 7 Aug 1902 in Sedro Wooley, Washington
Buried: there
Parents:
Married:
Children:
STOGSDILL, James Charles
Born: 9 Jan 1842 in Decatur Co, IN
Died: 18 Jan 1918 in Chase Co, KS
Buried: Cottonwod Falls, KS
Parents:
Married:
Children:
STOGSDILL, Mary Ann (Frazee) Purdue
Born: 5 Jan 1839 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Died: 9 Feb 1881 in Lincoln Co, KS.
Buried: there
Parents:
Married:
Children:
STOGSDILL, Rose Ann (Leathers)
Born: 26 Aug 1875 in Orchardville, Wayne Co, IL
Died: 9 Aug 1914 in Wayne Co, IL
Buried: Jacob's Chapel Cem.
Parents:
Married:
Children:
STOLLARD, Lewis P.
Oldest Civil War Vet Dies
Lewis P. Stollard, Member of Dunham Post, Succumbs at 96
Lewis P. Stollard, 96, oldest member of the Dunham Grand Army Post in Decatur,
died at 3:10 a. m. today in the home of his daughter, Mrs. H. G. Martin, 140
East Decatur Street. He lived in Decatur almost 14 years, having come here
from Piatt county after his wife died in 1922.
Mr. Stollard was born in Circleville, Fairfield county, Ohio, Dec. 17, 1839
and came to Illinois when he was 25 years old. For 18 years he was
superintendent of the Bement Cemetery. He was a member of the United Brethren
church of Monticello.
He served in the Civil war with Company K 155th Ohio Volunteers infantry, and
had a discharge signed by Abraham Lincoln.
Mr. Stollard leaves eight children: Mrs. Kate Goodrich, Mrs. Mattie Martin,
Herbert, Grant and Virgil all of Decatur; Lemuel H. of Jonesboro, Ark, John of
Bement; Mrs. Nellie Lamb, Woodburn, Ind. He also leaves 21 grandchildren, six
great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
The body was taken to Monson funeral home, where friends may call after 7 p.m.
Tuesday. Services under the auspices of the Dunham post G. A. R. will be held
in the Monson funeral chapel at 1:30 p.m. Thursday. Burial will be in Bement.
Tuesday December 3, 1935
Submitted by Jo Ann Brant SchmidtWith tears - I am one of
the six great grandchildren.
STOLTE, Anna Dorothea
Woman Stricken Preparing Meal
Apparently stricken while preparing luncheon for some neighbors, to whom she had extended
an invitation a short time before, Mrs. Anna Dorothea Stolte, wife of Harry Stolte, was found
dead at 11:20 a.m. Wednesday, when the husband returned to their home, 230 1/2 West G street,
after a brief illness.
When Mr. Stolte entered, after doing an errand, he noticed Mrs. Stolte seated in a chair.
When she failed to respond to his greeting, he attempted to rouse her and learned that death
had overtaken her. Although she had been in frail health and under the care of a doctor for
the last two years, her condition had not been held immediately critical.
A native of Decatur, Ill., Mrs. Stolte had resided in Ontario for 14 years, coming here
from Chicago. She was a member of the First Evangelical church, the Ontario Woman's Relief
corps and of the Euclid chapter, Order of Eastern Star. Beside the widower, Mrs. Stolte is
survived by a son, Harry Stolte Jr., and by three sisters, residing in Illinois.
Funeral arrangements, in charge of the J. B. Draper and Co., have not been completed.
The Daily Report, Ontario, California May 22, 1935
STONENBOROUGH, Laura Baird
Born:
Died: 15 Oct 1926 in Maroa, Macon Co, IL
Buried:
Parents:
Married:
Children:
STOOKEY, Amanda (Florey)
Born: 12 Dec 1842 in OH
Died: 18 May 1898 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: North Fork Cemetery, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Daniel & Susannah (Stouder) Florey
Married: 10 Jan 1864 in Macon Co, IL to Harvey L. Stookey
Children: Sarah, John, Charles, Minnie, Ira, Florence, Wm., Grace, Bert, Frank & Lucy
STOOKEY, Elizabeth
Born:
Died: 7 Mar 1927 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried:
Parents:
Married:
Children:
STOOKEY, Frank
Born: 5 Jul 1884 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 9 May 1928 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: North Fork Cemetery, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Harvey L & Amanda (Florey) Stookey
Married: Nora Weakley
Children:
STOOKEY, Harvey L.
Born: 12 Jan 1843 in Ross Co, OH
Died: 1 Oct 1919 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: North Fork Cemetery, Macon Co, IL
Parents:
Married: 10 Jan 1864 in Macon Co, IL to Amanda Florey
Children: Sarah, John, Charles, Minnie, Ira, Florence, Wm., Grace, Bert, Frank & Lucy
STOOKEY, James
DIED, At Harristown, Ill., on Sunday, August 22, 1880, James Stookey, aged about
17 years. The deceased is a son of Daniel Stookey, Esq., and had been in feeble health for a
number of months. He died of typhoid fever. The funeral will take place on Tuesday forenoon
at 10 o'clock.
Decatur Daily Republican, Decatur, IL, 23 Aug 1880
STOOKEY, Nancy J.
Born:
Died: 11 Mar 1942 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried:
Parents:
Married:
Children:
STOOKS, Carrie A.
Born:
Died: 10 Nov 1937 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried:
Parents:
Married:
Children:
STOPHER, Thomas
The burial of the late Thomas Stopher occurred Tuesday afternoon, the funeral
services being held at the residence of M.J. Dillen, at 1109 East William street. The services,
conducted by Rev. Spayd of the United Brethren church, were largely attended. The interment was
at Greenwood.
Herald Despatch, 9 April 1898
STORK, Conrad
CONRAD STORK OF STONINGTON DIES
Conrad Stork died at 2:30 Wednesday afternoon at the family home in
Christian county, two miles south and half a mile west of Stonington. He was almost
seventy-eight years old. He was a veteran of the Civil War and one of the best known
farmers of Christian county.
While not a man of great wealth Mr. Stork was comfortably situated and
leaves a considerable estate. He and his wife have always been held in high regards
in the community. They have a beautiful home near Stonington. Both have always been
fond of flowers and they showed splendid taste in beautifying the grounds about their
home. They were also successful in raising many varieties of fruit, all of a high
quality. When out driving their friends always made the Stork home a regular stopping
place, and they were always welcome.
IN CIVIL WAR
Mr. Stork was born in Bavaria, Germany, November 21, 1837. When he was
only thirteen years old he came to America, landing in New York. He worked near that
city as a farm hand for five years and then came to Illinois. He settled in Adams
County, but after a short time moved to Logan county and remained there until 1862.
There at the outbreak of the Civil War, he enlisted in company B, of the One-Hundred
and Sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry and served until his regiment was mustered out
of the service at Washington.
SEVEN CHILDREN
Returning at once to Illinois, he and Miss Mary Schick were married.
They remained in Logan county until 1885 when they moved to near Stonington and that
has been their home ever since. Besides his wife Mr. Stork is survived by seven
children, Frank and John Stork and Mrs. Kate Colbrook, all of Stonington, Mrs Ann
Polk, of Raymond Nebraska, Mrs. Clement Bedinghaus of Farmersville, Illinois, Mrs.
L.T. Bridges of Mahomet and Mrs. Thomas Wynn of Stonington.
The funeral will be held at 3 o'clock Friday morning at the Catholic Church
in Stonington. The services will be conducted by Rev. Father Corcoran. The body will
be brought to Decatur and interred in Calvary. It is the intention to make the trip by
automobiles but in case of rain the funeral party will come over the Wabash.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 29 Jul 1915
The funeral of Conrad Stork was held at 9 o'clock Friday morning at the Holy
Trinity church in Stonington. High mass was celebrated by Rev. Father Corcoran. It was
the largest funeral held in Stonington in a long time. The church was filled. The
music was furnished by the regular choir of the church.
The flowers were in charge of Misses Marie Colbrook, Katharine Colbrook,
Mabel Livergood and Agnes Livergood. The pallbearers were D.D. Davis, J.J. Dwyer, J.L.
Kralchauch. The body was brought to Decatur on the Wabash fast train No. 4, which made
a stop to accomodate the funeral party. There were over 100 people from Stonington
and vicinity in the party coming to Decatur. The interment was in Calvary.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 30 Jul 1915
STORK, Conrad Martin
Conrad M. " Con " Stork, 71, of Stonington died 4:35 p.m. Thursday in St.
Mary's Hospital, Decatur. Funeral services will be 9:30 a.m. Monday in Holy Trinity
Catholic Church, Stonington, with visitation 3 to 5 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Connelly
Funeral Home, Taylorville, and 7 p.m. rosary. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Decatur.
Mr. Stork was born in Stonington, son of Frank and Agnes Stork. He was a
retired farmer and member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Stonington. Surviving are sisters,
Mr. Mary Dillman of Pocahontas; Mrs Catherine Stengel of Auburn, Mrs. Theresa DeMichael of
Stonington; Mrs James Delahunty of Decatur. Two brothers preceded him in death.
Decatur Review, Friday, 20 March 1979
STORK, Francis J.
FRANCIS J. STORK, LIFETIME RESIDENT OF STONINGTON DIES
Francis J. Stork, 63, of Stonington, died at 5 o'clock this morning in
his home. He had been in ill health for several years. He was born at Stonington,
December 3, 1908, a son of Frank and Agnes Fitzpatrick Stork, and was married on May
18, 1946, at Stonington to Ursula Doyle. He was a farmer, retiring in 1970 and was
a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Stonington: the Stonington American
Legion; and was a veteran of World War II. He had lived his entire lifetime in
Stonington.
Surviving are his widow; two daughters, Mrs. Gary ( Molly ) Dooley of
Stonington, and Susanna, at home; four sons, Robert, Daniel, Larry and John, all of
Stonington; two brothers, Con of Stonington and William of Decatur; four sisters, Mrs
Kelsey ( Mary ) Dillman, Pocahontas; Mrs. LeRoy ( Catherine ) Stengel, of Auburn; Mrs
Florian ( Theresa ) DeMichael of Stonington; and Mrs James ( Louise ) Delahunty of
Decatur. and five grandchildren. A son Patrick, preceded him in death in 1966.
Funeral services will be held at 10 o'clock Saturday morning in Holy
Trinity Church of Stonington with the Rev. Raymond Rieck, pastor, officiating. Burial
will be in Oak Hill Cemetery.
Friends may call in the Connolly Funeral Home from 4 until 9 o'clock
Friday afternoon and night and where the Rosary will be recited at 8 o'clock.
STORK, Frank J.
STONINGTON, April 23, 1951 --- Frank J. Stork, 84 of Stonington, died at 12:45
A.M. Monday at St. Vincent's hospital in Taylorville. Mr. Stork was born in Mt. Pulaski, the
son of Conrad and Mary E. Schick Stork. On June 10, 1903, he married Agnes Fitzpatrick, in Decatur.
Surviving are the following children, Mrs Mary Dillman, Pocahontas; Mrs Catherine
Stengel, Waverly; Conrad and Francis both of Stonington; William, Decatur; Mrs. Theresa DeMichael,
Stonington, and Mrs. Louise Delahunty of Decatur; one sister, Mrs T. J. Winn, Detroit, Mich. and
14 grandchildren.
He lived in Stonington most of his life and was a retired farmer. He was a member
of the Holy Trinity church in Stonington. Remains will be taken to his residence two miles south
and 1/2 miles west of Stonington at 2 P. M. Tuesday. Funeral services will be held at 9 A. M.
Thursday at Holy Trinity church. Rev Oscar Schubert will be the celebrant of the requiem high
mass. Burial will be in Calvary cemetery.
2ND OBIT: (Partial)
REQUIEM HIGH MASS FOR FRANK J. STORK, 84
After a year's illness death claimed Frank J. Stork at 12:45 A. M. Monday in St.
Vincent's hospital. The well-known and highly respected retired farmer had been gradually losing
strength and growing weaker and could not withstand the final illness.
A son of the late Conrad and Mary E. Schick Stork he was born July 17, 1866 in Mt.
Pulaski. He was married to Miss Agnes Fitzpatrick in Decatur on June 10, 1903, and a few years
later the couple settled in this community. His wife preceded him in death, having passed away in
1942. He was a member of Holy Trinity church of this city.
Mr. Stork was a great lover of nature and the out-of-doors. In connection with his
farming operations he specialized for many years in fancy fruits, watermelons, popcorn, etc., and
was well known through central Illinois for his products. Since his retirement from active farming
several years back he spent much of his time on the banks of nearby streams and lakes with a pole,
line and hook. He loved to fish. Many residents of this community have enjoyed trips with him.
STORK, Mary Agnes (Fitzpatrick)
MRS FRANK STORK DIES SUDDENLY
The death of Mrs Frank Stork which occurred at 11 o'clock this (Thursday) morning,
comes as a severe shock to the citizens of this community, for only a few days ago she was about
town with her usual smile and words of good cheer. Death came as she was sitting in a chair in
her home, the result of a heart attack. She was 66 years of age.
The deceased was a native of Kansas and spent her early childhood in that state,
later moving to Decatur, Illinois. She came to this community as a schoolteacher and taught
several terms at Ireland school near this city. While there she met Frank Stork and they were
married and have since been located on a farm near this city.
Seven children were born to them, all of whom survive. They are; Mrs. Mary Dillman
of Pocahontas, Mrs Catherine Stengel of Springfield; Con at home; Francis who is in the US Army
and stationed in California; William of Decatur; Mrs Florian DeMichael of this city, and Mrs.
Louise Delahunty of Decatur.
Funeral arrangements have not been made, pending word from the son Francis in
California. A complete obituary will appear next week.
Stonington Newspaper, 30 Oct 1942
STORK, Mary Eve (Schick)
MRS MARY E. STORK OF STONINGTON DIES
Became Seriously Ill Two Weeks Ago
Mrs Mary E. Stork, an old and respected resident of Stonington, died at 1:45
o'clock Saturday afternoon in St. Vincent's hospital in Taylorville. She became seriously
ill about two weeks ago, was removed to the hospital last Monday, where she underwent a
serious operation, and for a time seemed to be on the road to recovery. She became suddenly
worse on Thursday and most of her children were there at the time of her death. She was the
widow of Conrad Stork, who died just ten years ago last Thursday.
In 1885, forty years ago, with her husband and family, she settled on a farm
a few miles southwest of Stonington and resided on the same farm until the death of her husband,
when she moved into Stonington. She was especially fond of flowers and her home both in the
country and in town always attracted much attention with its beautiful flower garden.
BORN IN MT. PULASKI
She was born at Mt. Pulaski on January 22, 1849, a little more than seventy-six
years ago. Her maiden name was Mary E. Schick. At the close of the Civil War, she and Conrad
Stork were married and they lived on a farm north of Latham and east of Mt. Pulaski until their
removal to Stonington.
She leaves the following children: Mrs Kate Colbrook and Frank Stork of Stonington;
Mrs. L. T. Bridges of Mahomet; Mrs Anne Polk of Raymond, Neb.; Mrs Elizabeth Bedinghaus of
Farmersville; Mrs Thomas Wynn of Peoria; and John Stork of near Taylorville. There are also
twenty-eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She also has four half-brothers and two
half-sisters as follows: John and Con Schick and Mrs. Susan Mischler of Springfield; Frank Schick
and Mrs. Margaret Heger of Terre Haute; and Mike Schick of Mt. Pulaski.
The funeral service will be held Monday morning at 9:00 o'clock in Holy Trinity
Catholic church at Stonington. The body will then be brought to Decatur for internment in
Calvary cemetery.
Taylorville Newspaper, Sunday Morning, 2 Aug 1925
STORK, Patrick J.
Patrick J. Stork was born at Taylorville, September 5, 1950, the son of
Francis J. Stork and Ursula B. Doyle Stork. He was graduated in 1963 from St. Mary's
Grade School, here, and last spring he completed his sophomore year at Griffin High
School, Springfield, where he planned to return as a junior this fall. He was a member
of Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Stonington.
He is survived by his parents; four brothers; F. Daniel, who is attending
school in St. Louis, Mo.; Robert, Larry, and John at home; two sisters, Mrs Gary (Molly)
Dooley, Junction City, Kansas; and Susanna, at home; his grand-mother, Mrs. D.D. Doyle,
Stonington; and several uncles and aunts.
The body was recieved by the Connolly Funeral Home, where friends may call
after 2 o'clock Friday afternoon. The Rosary will be recited at 8 o'clock Friday night,
in the funeral home.
Funeral services will be held at 9:30 o'clock Saturday morning in Holy
Trinity Catholic Church at Stonington, with the Rev. Brendan Keane, pastor, officiating.
Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in this city.
STORK, Ursula V. (Doyle)
Ursula V. Stork, 93, died Aug. 1, 2007, at Alterra Clara Bridge Cottage in
Vero Beach. She was born in Stonington, Ill., and moved to Vero Beach 12 years ago, coming
from her place of birth. She was a member of St. Helen Catholic Church in Vero Beach.
Prior to retirement, she had worked as a registered nurse. She attended the University
of Michigan at Ann Arbor.
Survivors include her daughters, Molly Dooley of Stonington, Ill., and
Susanna Tarr of Vero Beach; sons, Daniel Stork of Melbourne, Bob Stork of Vero Beach,
Larry Stork of Vero Beach and John Stork of Taylorville, Ill.; 19 grandchildren and
25 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Francis J. Stork,
and son, Pat Stork. Memorial contributions may be made to VNA Hospice Foundation, 1110
35 Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960. SERVICES: Visitation will from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 3
at the Cox-Gifford-Seawinds Funeral Home in Vero Beach. Her body will be transferred
to McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville, Ill., for final services and burial at Oak Hill
Cemetery.
Published in the TC Palm on 2 Aug 2007
Ursula V. "Toots" Stork
STONINGTON - Ursula V. "Toots" Stork, 93, of Vero Beach, FL, formerly of
Stonington, IL died at 8:30 am Wednesday, August 1, 2007 at Alterra Clara Bridge
Cottage in Vero Beach. She was born April 25, 1914 in Stonington, IL the daughter of
Daniel D. and Elizabeth Gertrude Dwyer Doyle. On May 18, 1946 she married Francis Joseph
Stork and he preceded her in death on August 17, 1972. Mrs. Stork attended the University
of Michigan at Ann Arbor and prior to her retirement she worked as a Registered Nurse.
She was a member of St. Helen's Catholic Church in Vero Beach, a former member of Holy
Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington, and the Altar and Rosary Society at Holy Trinity.
Surviving are her daughters "Molly" Dooley of Stonington, Susanna Tarr and
husband Larry of Vero Beach; Sons: Daniel Stork and wife Linda of Melbourne, FL, Bob
Stork and wife Carmen of Vero Beach, FL, Larry Stork of Vero Beach, FL and John Stork and
wife Leesa of Taylorville. There are 19 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren. She
was preceded in death by her husband, son, Patrick Joseph Stork, Brother Glen Doyle and
sisters, Eleanor Graham and Beatrice Francis.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 am Monday, August 6at St. Mary's
Catholic Church in Taylorville, IL. Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Sunday,
August 5 at McClure Funeral Home. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery.
Published in the Decatur Herald & Review on 4 Aug 2007.
STORK, William M.
William M. Stork, 64 of 2120 E. Wood St. died at 9:15 A.M. Thursday in St.
Mary's Hospital.
Mass of the Resurrection will be 9 A.M. Saturday in St. Patrick's Catholic
Church. Visitation will be 5 to 9 P.M. Friday in J.J. Moran & Sons Funeral Home with 7:30
prayer service. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.
Mr. Stork was born in Stonington, a son of Frank and Agnes Stork. He was
member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church. He was a millwright at A. E. Staley Mfg. Co. for
over 40 years. He married Bessie Foster in Champaign. Survivors include his wife; son
William E. of Decatur; sisters, Mrs Kelsey (Mary) Dillman of Pocahontas; Mrs LeRoy (Catherine)
Stengel of Auburn, Mrs F. J. (Teresa) DeMichael of Stonington, Mrs James (Louise) Delahunty
of Decatur; brother, Conrad of Stonington; one grandchild. A brother preceded him in death.
Decatur Review, 25 Apr 1975
STOUT, John
Mr. ___Stout, who resides near Maroa, in this county, has a family of ten children,
and is a farmer in good circumstances. His wife died about fifteen years ago, since which time
his daughters have kept house for him. Among the boys John was the favored one, being the
youngest, his father having raised him from infancy he being scarcely a year old when his mother
died. John was in good health, and his father has never whipped him, and very seldom chided the
boy. On Saturday last John said to his father that he wasnted to ride the colt tomorrow as he
wanted to visit some young friends in the neighborhood. But on Sunday, John preferred to walk.
During the day he remarked to one of the boys that he intended to hang himself; said he once made
the attempt, but failed. Yesterday morning he drove the team on the farm, and in the forenoon
his father gave John his choice to take a harrow to a neighbor's house or plow the field, and he
accepted the former. Upon his return to the field he discovered that he had forgotten the
doubltree. His father kindly remarked that if he had taken the harrow home he would not have
forgotten the doubletree. John went immediately to the house and told his sister that his father
had been scolding him because he had forgotten the doubletree, whereupon his sister asked him
to get on a horse and go after it. But John said no. About thirty minutes later Mr. Stout
came to the house, in and going to the crib about 50 or 60 yards from the house to get some corn,
he discovered his son John, with a trace chain in one end of which he had made a loop and put it
around his neck, and the other end was fastened to a stick that projected from the crib, upon
which he had swung his body to die a suicidal death. The father grasped his boy in his arms and
lifted him down, but he was dead. The intimation of John to a friend the day before was the first
symptom of temporary insanity discovered. He had everything he needed and the promise of a long
life. The father and family are overwhelmed with grief in this sad bereavement.
Coroner Givler held an inquest yesterday afternoon and the jury returned the
following verdict: "We the jury summoned and sworn by the Coroner of Macon county, Illinois, to
hold an inquest over the dead body of John Stout, agree that he came to his death by committing
suicide by hanging, while laboring under a fit of temporary insanity. This the 29th day of
April, A.D. 1872.
Daily Republican (Decatur), 28 April 1872
STOUT, Anna M. (Detrich)
The funeral of Mrs. Stout was held Sundat at 11 o'clock at the Christian church,
which was beautifully draped for the occasion. Mrs. Stout was one of our oldest citizens and
was liked by every one. Her maiden name was Anna M. Detrich and she was born in Dauphin
county, pa., in 1822. Married in 1842 to Ferdinand Sout. Fifteen children were born to
them, seven of whom are living. All reside here except one and all were with her at the time
of her death, which occurred Friday, Feb. 19, 1897. Mr. Stout died in 1888. They had lived
in Niantic for thirty-one years and were among the first settlers in the town.
Mrs. Stout joined the Christian church here about thirty years ago under the
preaching of Brother Radford and has always lived true to her profession. Among those
present at the funeral were her daughter, Mrs. Rogers of Indianpolis, Mr. and Mrs. Sam
Miller of Springfield, James Sout and daughter of Emery.
The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, Thursday, 25 Feb 1897
STOUT, Ferdinand
DIED - At Niantic, July 6, of asthma, Ferdinand Stout, aged 58 years.
Deceased leaves a widow and seven children.
Decatur Republican, Decatur IL, 12 Jul 1888, pg 1
STOUT, Leonard Henry
Leonard Henry Stout, aged 76 years, died at 12:30 Friday morning at the home
of his daughter, Mrs. Frank Sweet, from complications.
Mr. Stout was born March 28, 1815, at Dauphin, Pa. On June 13, 1881, he
married Miss Sarah Chapman, who preceded him in death. He leaves the daughter with whom
he has been residing since the death of his wife, two brothers and one sister, all of
this place. The brothers are Lincoln and Samuel Stout, and the sister is Mrs. Mary Tibbett.
Mr. Stout was a member of the Methodist church, with which he united Dec. 23,
1891. He was a Civil war veteran, having served two and a half years with Co. S., 21st
regiment.
The funeral will be held from the Methodist church at 2 o’clock Sunday
afternoon.
Decatur Review, Decatur IL, 30 Dec 1921, pg. 19
STOVALL, Isom
Isom Stovall, an old colored resident of this city, died this morning at
11:15 at his home 1667 East Marietta street, after a lingering illiness, caused by an
injury which he received while working at the Decatur coal mine, No. 1, last August.
He was 68 years old and is survived by his wife, Mary, and several children.
No funeral arrangements have yet been made, but it is likely that the
funeral will take place some time Wednesday.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 6 Dec 1909, pg. 12
Coroner Buxton held an inquest at the 5 o’clock Tuesday evening at Moran’s
undertaking establishment over the body of Isom Stovall, whose death resulted from
injuries sustained in the mine of the Decatur Coal company. The inquest was at the
request of the coal company. The verdict was that the man’s death was due to the fact
that his injuries had not been properly attended to.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 8 Dec 1909, pg. 11
The funeral of Isom Stovall was held at 2:30 Wednesday afternoon at the
A.M.E. church. The services were conducted by the Rev. J.A. Crockett, assisted by Rev.
J.T. Morrow. The members of Dunham post 141, G.A.R., attended teh services in a body.
The music was furnished by the regular church choir. The pallbearers were Albert
Thayer, Fred Schwab, T.J. Barnum, A.A. Kratzer, J.C. Lingle and J.F. Steele. The
interment was at Greenwood.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 9 Dec 1909, pg. 4
STRAILEY, Jacob
Jacob Strailey, an aged resident of this city, died yesterday morning at half-past
one o'clock at his residence, No. 904 North College street. The deceased had reached the
advanced age of eighty-one years, which was the cause of his death. An aged widow and two
children survive him. They are Mrs. George W. Lyons, of this city, and S.M. Strailey, of
Ellis, Kansas. The funeral will take place this afternoon at three o'clock, Rev. M.S.
Newcomer, of the Church of God, will conduct the services.
Daily Review, Decatur, IL, 16 May 1886
STRAWN, Elizabeth
The funeral of Mrs. Elizabeth Strawn, mother of Mrs. Hue Singleton, was held at
3 o'clock Monday afternoon at St. Peter's A.M.E. church following a short service at the McKinley
avenue. The services were conducted by Rev. J.H. Sydes. The church was filled with friends.
The music was furnished by the regular church choir. The flowers were in charge of
Mrs. Turnbo, Mrs. V. Cummings, Mrs. Z. Glass, and Miss Prudence Sheen. The pallbearers were
Fred McGregory, L.L. Moore, David Hunt, J. Thompson, Clarence Johnson and Thomas Miller.
Interment was at Greenwood.
STREEVEY, Verenda E.
Mrs. Verenda E. Streevey died at 6 o'clock Sunday evening at the home of
her daughter, Mrs. Samuel Moffet, 975 West View street. Her death was due to the infirmities
of age, she being seventy-seven years old. She is survived by four children, Mrs. Annie C.
Elder, Mrs. Curtis W. Miller, Mrs. Samuel W. Moffet, and W.F. Streevey of Harristown. She
had lived in Macon county for about sixteen years. Her husband died three years ago. She
was an active member of the Methodist church at Harristown, where the funeral will be held
at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning.
The Daily Review (Decatur), 10 May 1909
STREVER, Horatio M.
H.M. STREVER, CIVIL WAR VETERAN, DEAD
Friends Creek Nonogenarian Leaves 27 Great Grandchildren
Horatio M. Strever, 90, a veteran of the Civil war and a former assessor of
Friends Creek township, died at 9:30 Saturday morning in the Decatur and Macon county
hospital after a six days' illness with pneumonia.
He was the next to last member of the Fred Spooner post, G.A.R. at Argenta. He
served during the war as a flag bearer in Company A., 141st Illinois volunteer infantry. At
the close of the war he settled on a farm near Argenta, where he had resided since 1866. He
was active as a farmer until 1903.
GREAT GRANDCHILDREN NUMBER 27
Horatio Strever was born in Striker, O., March 25, 1841. He married Lydia N.
Petit, March 8, 1866. His wife preceded him in death July 18, 1926. He leaves three
daughters, Mrs. W.A. Shewmaker and Mrs. W.E. Allen, Decatur, and Mrs. F.L. Frey, Argenta.
Four sons also are living: Charles Strever, Decatur, and George, Barney and Rowland Strever,
all of Argenta. He leaves in addition 17 grandchildren and 27 greatgrandchildren.
He was a member of the Presbyterian church and the Argenta Masonic lodge. He
was assessor for Friends Creek Township for 18 years.
The body was taken to the Monson funeral home. Funeral arrangements were
incomplete, Saturday.
Decatur Evening Herald, 18 Apr 1931
STRIKER, Louis
Louis Striker, an old soldier, died at 10:45 o’clock last night at his
home, 272 East Leafland avenue of Bright’s disease. He was 72 years old and during
the war was a member of the 7th Indiana regiment, Company D. He was a member of the
G.A.R. in the southern part of the state, but he never joined the post in this city.
He and his daughter, Grace have been living in this city for the past eighteen years.
He was well liked by all who knew him and he had many friends in this city. He is
survived by five children, Grace and Charlie of this city, Claude of Seattle, Wash.,
Bertha of California and Stella of Dallas, Tex.
The arrangements for the funeral have not yet been made but it will
probably be held Thursday afternoon.
Decatur Herald, Decatur IL, 4 May 1906, pg. 6
STROUSE, David
David Strouse Passes Away
Was Chaplain of Dunham Post, G.A.R.
David Strouse, 112 South Main street, chaplain of Dunham post 141, G.A.R., died
at 6 o'clock Monday evening at the Decatur and Macon County Hospital. He was eighty-five years
old last March. Two weeks ago last Friday he suffered a stroke of paralysis and was removed to
the hospital and was confined to his bed ever since.
Mr. Strouse was born near Pittsburgh, Pa., March 19, 1841. His wife, who was
Miss Sidney Savannah Brown, died forty-six years ago. Mr. Strouse enlisted in company F of the
One Hundred and Twenty-Fifth Illinois Infantry, which was organized in Champaign and Vermillion
counties, Aug. 11, 1862, and served as a corporal throughout the war. He was mustered out June
9, 1865.
In Many Battles
Some of the regiments did not get to do much fighting, but the One Hundred and
Twenty-Fifth was one of those that remained close to the front and participated in many of the
battles. Among the most important engagements in which Mr Strouse participated were Perryville,
Missionary Ridge, Kenasaw Mountain, Atlanta and with General Sherman on his famous march to the
sea.
After the war Mr. Strouse engaged in farming near Maroa for fifty years or more
and was prominent in that neighborhood. He was active in the G.A.R. at Maroa, and when he moved
to Decatur a few years ago he affiliated with Dunham post.
Chaplain of Post
He was chaplain of the post at the time of his death. He was widely known and had
many friends. He is survived by the following children: Sherman Strouse, Alice Strouse and
Oscar Strouse, all of Decatur; Rodney Strouse of Los Angeles, Cal., and Stella B. Strouse,
superintendent of the Wabash hospital in Peru, Ind. There are two grand-children, Mrs. Linnie
Ernst of Decatur and Rodney Strouse, Jr., of Los Angeles. He also leaves his brothers and
sister: John Strouse of Walnut, Solomon Strouse of Oregon and Mrs. Sadie Houston of Columbus,
Kan. The body was removed to the Dawson & Wikoff undertaking establishment and prepared for
burial.
Decatur Daily Review, Decatur, Illinois, Tuesday, November 9, 1926, Page 13, Cols. 3-6
Submitted by: Dennis Krebs
David Strouse, 142 South Main street, chaplain of Dunham post, 141, G.A.R.,
died at 6 o’clock Monday evening at the Decatur and Macon County hospital. He was eighty-five
years old last March. Two weeks ago last Friday he suffered a stroke of paralysis and was
removed to the hospital and was confined to his bed ever since.
Mr. Strouse was born near Pittsburgh, Pa., March 19, 1841. His wife, who was
Miss Sidney Savannah Brown, died forty-six years ago. Mr. Strouse enlisted in company F of
the One Hundred and Twenty-Fifth Illinois Infantry, which was organized in Champaign and
Vermillion counties, Aug. 11, 1862, and served as a corporal throughout the war. He was
mustered out June 9, 1865.
Some of the regiments did not get to do much fighting, but the One Hundred and
Twenty-Fifth was one of those that remained close to the front and participated in many of the
battles. Among the most important engagement in which Mr. Strouse participated were Perryville,
Missionary Ridge, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, and with General Sherman on his famous march to
the sea.
After the war, Mr. Strouse engaged in farming near Maroa for fifty years or
more and was prominent in that neighborhood. He was active in the G.A.R. at Maroa and when
he moved to Decatur a few years ago, he affiliated with Dunham post.
He was chaplain of the post at the time of his death. He was widely known
and had many friends. He is survived by the following children: Sherman Strouse, Alice
Strouse and Oxcar Strouse, all of Decatur; Rodney Strouse of Los Angeles, Cal, and Stella
B. Stouse, superintendent of the Wabash hospital in Peru, Ind. There are two grand-children,
Mrs. Linnie Ernat of Decatur and Rodney Strouse, Jr. of Los Angeles. He also leaves his
brothers and sisters, John Stouse of Walnut, Solomon Strouse of Oregon and Mrs. Sadie
Houston of Columbus Kan. The body was removed to the Dawson ∓ Wikoff undertaking establishment
and prepared for burial.
Decatur Review, Decatur IL, 9 Nov 1926, pg. 13
STRUNK, Bessie L.
Mrs. Bessie L. Strunk, wife of Donald E. Strunk, died at 1:30 o'clock Sunday
afternoon, at the family residence, 446 South Water street. She would have been 37 years old in
September. Her death resulted from an inward goiter.
Mrs. Strunk was born near Scranton, Penn., September 6, 1888. She had made her
home in Decatur for the last two years, the family moving to Decatur in 1923. She is survived by
her husband and five children; Keith, Thomas, Norbert, William and Donald Strunk, Jr. The body
was removed to the Moran & Sons undertaking establishment and prepared for burial.
Decatur Daily Review, 17 August 1925
STUART, Alta G. (Corbett)
Born: 7 Apr 1868 in Argenta, Macon Co, IL
Died: 20 Feb 1932 in Hereford, Deaf Smith, Texas
Buried:
Parents: Oliver L. & Elizabeth (Kile) Stuart
Married: 3 Jan 1900 in Macon Co, IL to Martin A. Corbett
Children:
STUART, Carrie Hayes
Born: 7 Dec 1874 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 28 Nov 1963 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Friends Creek Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Oliver L. & Elizabeth (Kile) Stuart
Married:
Children:
STUART, Catharine
Born:
Died: 5 Aug 1844 in Macon Co, IL
Buried:
Parents:
Married:
Children:
STUART, David H.
Born: 23 Dec 1803 in VA
Died: 25 Jun 1856 in Macon Co, IL
Buried: Union Cem., Macon Co., IL
Parents:
Married: 8 Nov 1832 in Macon Co, IL to Sarah Florey
Children: Oliver, John T. & Elizabeth
STUART, David H.
Born: 1 Sep 1864
Died: 26 Oct 1865
Buried: Union Cem., Macon Co, IL
Parents: John T. & Minerva A. (Young) Stuart
STUART, Dollie Jeanette (Bell)
Born: 10 Oct 1904 in Casner, IL
Died: 17 Jan 1996 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Cerro Gordo Cem, Piatt County, IL
Parents: William & Etta (Lavy) Bell
Married: 1923 to Homer E. Stuart
Children, Howard, Jackie, Dale
STUART, Dorothy Pauline
Dorothy Pauline Stuart, infant daugher of Mr. and Mrs. John W. Stuart,
died Wednesday at the family residence, 384 West Packard street, five hours
after it's birth. Private funeral services were held at the residence at 3
o'clock Thursday afternoon. The interment was in the Wheeler cemetery
northeast of Decatur.
Decatur Review, Thursday, June 16, 1921, p 14
Born: 15 Jun 1921 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Died: 15 Jun 1921 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Wheeler Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Mr. & Mrs. John W.
STUART, Effie (Williams)
Born: 12 Mar 1869 near Argenta, Macon Co, IL
Died: 6 Jul 1928 in Atwater, MN
Buried: Friends Creek Cem, Argenta, Macon Co, IL
Parents:
Married: 23 Feb 1898 in Macon Co, IL to Samuel Harrison Stuart
Children: Marguerite, Reva
STUART, Elizabeth (Kile)
Born: 9 Feb 1834 in OH
Died: 26 Jan 1914 in Oreana, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Friend's Creek Cem., Macon Co., IL
Parents: Josiah & Mary (Clark) Kile
Married: 1 Jun 1854 in Macon Co, IL to Oliver L. Stuart
Children: Francis, Martha, Bertha, Jessie, Mary, Alta & Carrie
STUART, Emma J.
Born: 30 Oct 1867 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 30 Oct 1938 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: STUART, Emma J.
Buried: Union Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: John T. & Minerva (Young) Stuart
Married:
Children:
STUART, Francis Wilbur
Born:
Died: 23 Jul 1857
Buried: Friends Creek Cemetery, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Oliver & Elizabeth (Kile) Stuart
STUART, Frank Edward
Born: 29 May 1874 in Argenta, Macon Co, IL
Died: 10 May 1959 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Union Cem., Macon Co, IL
Parents: John T. & Minerva (Young) Stuart
Married: 24 Jan 1900 in Macon Co, IL to Nellie B. Reed
#2 12 Feb 1927 in Bloomington, IL to Minnie Lawler
Children: Opal, Herman & Mae
STUART, Herman Frank
Born: 21 Mar 1908 in Argenta, Macon Co, IL
Died: 28 Jun 1990 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Macon Co. Memorial Park, Macon Co, IL
Parents: Frank Edward & Nellie Bertha (Reed) Stuart
Married: 22 Dec 1939 to Edythe Floy Harvey
Children: Jon, Nancy, Debra & Carol
STUART, Homer E.
Born: 02 Feb 1901 in Oakley Twp, Macon Co, IL
Died: 20 Jan 1984
Buried: Cerro Gordo Cem, Piatt County, IL
Parents: William S. & Isabella (Funk) Stuart
Married: 1923 to Dollie Jeanette Bell
Children: Howard, Jackie, Dale
STUART, Isabella (Funk)
Mrs. Isabella Stuart, wife of W.S. Stuart, died at the family residence northwest
of town on Monday evening, June 24th of heart trouble. The deceased is survived by a husband
and five children as follows: John, Melvin, Pearl, Russell and Homer; a father, M.C. Funk; two
brothers, W.R. and Thomas Funk and two sisters, Mrs. George Hiser and Mrs. Linnie Funk.
The funeral was held from the Fairview church Wednesday afternoon. Rev. A.L.
Bingamon delivered the funeral sermon, and the interment was at the Wheeler cemetery. The
pall bearers were J.R. Minick, David Strohm, Oits Veech, Simon Hiser, Edward Baker and Jesse
Funk.
Decatur Herald, Decatur, IL, 29 Jun 1901
Born:
Died: 24 Jun 1901
Buried: Wheeler Cem, Oakley Twp, Macon Co, IL
Parents:
Married: 8 Feb 1891 in Macon Co, IL to William S. Stuart
Children: Russell, John, Melvin, Pearl, Homer
STUART, James B.
Born: 3 Aug 1884 in IL
Died: 30 Jun 1900
Buried: Union Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: John T. & Minerva (Young) Stuart
STUART, John F.
Oreana - The funeral of John F. Stuart, who died (27 Feb 1916) on the same farm
where he was born eighty years ago, was held in the Union cemetery.
Mr. Stuart was born four miles southeast of Oreana in 1836. On July 19, 1860,
Miss Minerva Young and Mr. Stuart were married. She died May 28, 1912. Mr. Stuart
is survived by the following children: Mrs. Ada Hedges of Seward, Neb., Mrs. Sarah
Livingston of Decatur, W.S. Stuart and Frank Stuart of Oakley, Samuel H. Stuart,
Mrs. Amanda Evans and Robert G. Stuart of New Richmond, Minn, and Miss Emma
Stuart who resided at home. He also leaves one brother, O.L. Stuart of Oreana, and
one sister, Mrs. Mary Kile, of Decatur.
Decatur Review, Tues., Feb 29, 1916, p. 3
STUART, John W.
Born: 1891 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 30 Apr 1974 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Cerro Gordo Cem, Piatt Co, IL
Parents: William S. & Isabella (Funk) Stuart
Married: 16 Nov 1912 in Macon Co, Il to Lela S. Nickey
Children: Florence
STUART, Lela S. (Nickey)
Born: 1889 in Oakley Twp, Macon Co, Il
Died: 05 Feb 1971
Buried: Cerro Gordo Cem, Piatt County, IL
Parents:
Married: 16 Nov 1912 in Macon Co, IL to John W. Stuart
Children: Florence
STUART, Mabel (Metcalfe)
Born: 29 Jul 1876
Died: 16 May 1960 in Albert Lea, MN
Buried: Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, Albert Lea, MN
Parents:
Married: 1913 in Springfield, Sangamon Co, IL to William S. Stuart
Children: Dow, Edwin, Lucille
STUART, Mary Alice
Born:
Died: 7 Jan 1928 in Maroa Twp, Macon Co, IL
Buried:
Parents:
STUART, Mae Lavon
Mae Lavon Stuart, the ten month-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank
Stuart of Oakley, died at the family residence Tuesday morning after a
brief sickness. The funeral will be held Thursday morning at 10 o'clock.
Burial will be in the Union cemetery.
Decatur Review, Wednesday, December 19, 1917. page 12
The funeral of May Lavon Stuart, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank
Stuart, was held Thursday at the family residence in Oakley. The services
were conducted by Rev. D. J. Blickenstaff.
The flowers were in charge of Edna Mitchell, Nellie Larson, Maude
Craft and Marjorie McKirahan.
The pallbearers were Lulu McClure, Gertrude McClure, Edith Sheets
and Minerva Hite. The interment was in the Union Cemetery.
Decatur Review, Friday, December 21, 1917, page 16
STUART, Melvin M
Born: 1893 in Emery
Died: 1973
Buried: Cerro Gordo Cem, Piatt County, IL
Parents: William S. & Isabelle (Funk) Stuart
Married: 15 Mar 1917 in Cerro Gordo, Piatt County, Il to Faryl Hess
Children: Vera Mae, Margaret
STUART, Mildred L.
Born:
Died: 3 Apr 1920 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried:
Parents:
STUART, Minnie Lawler (Sensenbaugh)
Born: 9 Apr 1878 Near Bement, Piatt Co, IL
Died: 25 Apr 1953 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Fairlawn Cem, Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Parents: John C. & Mary Sensenbaugh
Married: 27 Dec 1899 to J. Samuel Lawler
Married: 12 Feb. 1927 in Bloomington, IL to Frank Stuart
Children: Vera, Mae, John, Earl, Dale, A. Woodrow
STUART, Minerva A. (Young)
Mrs. Minerva Stuart died Tuesday morning in her home three and one
half miles southeast of Oreana. The cause of her death was apoplexy. She
was in her usual health up to Tuesday morning. After breakfast she
complained of a severe pain in her head and became unconscious about 6:30
and died an hour later. She was born April 2, 1841 in Crawford county,
Ohio, near Bucynus. When she was 8 years old, she came to Illinois with
her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Adam Young, and settled on a farm north-west of
Argenta. She was married to John T. Stuart, July 19, 1860. Eight of the
ten children born to this union are living: Mrs. Ada Hedges of Seward,
Neb., Mrs. Sadie Livingston of Forsyth, W. S. Stuart of Oakley, S. H.
Stuart of St. Benedict, Ia., Mrs. Amanda Evans of Decatur, Frank Stuart
of Cerro Gordo, Robert G. Stuart of Argenta, and Miss Emma Stuart.
Funeral arrangements have not been made, pending the arrival of the
children from a distance.
Decatur Herald, Wed, May 28, 1912, page 2
Submitted by: Sandra Wagner
Buried: Union Cem., Macon Co, IL
Parents: Adam & Elizabeth (Shaw) Young
Children: Ada, Sarah, David, Wm., Emma, Amanda, Samuel, Frank, Robert & James
STUART, Nellie Bertha (Reed)
Born: 8 Jun 1878 in Oakley Twp, Macon Co, IL
Died: 2 Feb 1925 in Decatur, Macon Co., IL
Buried: Union Cem., Macon Co., IL
Parents: Robert & Louisa Barbara (Fulk) Reed
Married: 24 Jan 1900 in Macon Co, IL to Frank Edward Stuart
Children: Opal, Herman, & Mae
STUART, Oliver T.
Argenta - Oliver T. Stuart died at his home three miles south of here Monday (2 Dec 1918)
morning at 5 0'clock. His death was caused by heart trouble.
Mr. Stuart was an old settler of the county and was more than 85 years of age. (born: 15 Sep 1833)
He is survived by five children: Mrs. W.L. Larkin of Bangel, Mich.; Mrs. W.H. Smith, of
Rockwill City, Iowa; Mrs. A.C. Scott of Matthew, Mo.; and Mrs. Alma Porbitt of Pana.
Decatur Review, Monday, Dec 2, 1918, p. 5
STUART, Pearl
Born: in IL
Died: 27 Aug 1982
Buried: Wheeler Cem, Argenta, Macon Co, IL
Parents: William S. & Isabella (Funk) Stuart
STUART, Robert Garfield
Born: 23 Oct 1796 in VA
Died: 8 Apr 1867 in Macon Co, IL
Buried: Florey Cem., Macon Co, IL
Parents:
Married: 1820 to Catharine Florey
Children: Julia, S.H., Mary, Sarah, & Emeline
STUART, Robert Garfield
Born: 29 Jun 1878 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Died: 28 Feb 1954 in Wadena Co., MN
Buried: Clarissa, MN
Parents: John T. & Minerva (Young) Stuart
Married: 7 Jan 1903 in Macon Co, IL to Mary Shank
Children: Cora, Lelah, Thelma, Edward & Beulah
STUART, Russell H.
Born:
Died: 27 Aug 1982
Buried: Oak Ridge Cem, Effingham, IL
Parents: William S. Stuart & Isabella (Funk) Stuart
Married: 1918 to Flossie Neal Calhoun
Children:
STUART, Samuel Harrison
Born: 23 Jun 1872 in Whitmore Twp, Macon Co, IL
Died: 7 Jan 1947 in San Marino, CA
Buried: Union Cem, Macon Co, IL
Parents: John T. & Minerva (Young) Stuart
Married: 23 Feb 1898 in Macon Co, IL to Effie Williams
Children: Marguerite, Reva
STUART, Sarah (Florey)
Born: 23 Aug 1797 in VA
Died: 1 Jan 1872 in Macon Co, IL
Buried: Union Cem., Macon Co., IL
Parents: John & Mary (Ott)
Married: 8 Nov 1832 in Macon Co, IL to David Stuart
Children: Oliver, John & Mary
STUART, Sarah
Born:
Died: 5 Feb 1932 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried:
Parents:
STUART, Susan
Born:
Died: 19 Feb 1923 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried:
Parents:
STUART, William S.
Born: 23 Dec 1865 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 14 Mar 1940 in Waseca Co., MN
Buried: Wheeler Cem, Argenta, Macon Co, IL
Parents: John T. & Minerva (Young) Stuart
Married: 8 Feb 1891 in Macon Co, IL to Isabelle Funk
Children: John, Melvin, Pearl, Russell & Homer
SULLIVAN, George
George Sullivan, a man about 60 years old, employed at the elevator of Gerber
& McCarty at Argenta, was found dead in a corn bin at the elevator Monday morning about
10 o’clock. It is not known whether he fell into the bin and was suffocated or had an attack
of heart trouble and died from that.
Corn was being run from the bin, Mr. Sullivan was the top man and was busy in
the top of the elevator. The stream of corn was shut off and it was evident that something
had choked the spout. It was suspected that Mr. Sullivan had fallen into the bin as nothing
else was thought of that could choke the spout.
Ed Gerber ran up to the top of the elevator and not finding Mr. Sullivan his
fears were confirmed. There was about 500 bushels of corn in the bin. It was determined that
the body must be near the opening in the spout. A hole was cut into the side of the bin and
the body found. It was taken out and lowered by ropes to the ground and carried into the
office. Dr. Thomas had been called and was there when the body was brought into the office.
He said that he could not tell at first whether death had been caused by suffocation or heart
disease. The man had evidently been dead in a few seconds after falling into the bin.
Dr. Thomas had but recently examined Mr. Sullivan with a view to an application
for a pension and he said that at that time he had symptoms of heart trouble. It may have
been that while at work in the top of the elevator, he had an attack of heart trouble and
fell into the bin. There was a bruise on his forehead and chin as if he had struck the side
of the bin. Mr. Sullivan’s son, James Sullivan a blacksmith in Argenta, was called and was
at the elevator office in a few minutes. He said that as they were coming into town that
morning his father had complained of not feeling well. They live at Newberg two or three
miles out of Argenta, and come into town every day.
Coroner Dawson was notified and went out to Argenta to hold the inquest this
afternoon.
Mr. Sullivan was an old soldier and a good citizen and had many friends in
and about Argenta. He leaves three or four children.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 20 Apr 1903
SWAIN, Edith (Querry)
Born: 6 Sep 1871 in Macon Co, IL
Died: 13 Jan 1929 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Buried: Union Cem., Macon Co, IL
Parents: Isaiah & Sarah (Strope) Querry
Married: 11 Jun 1908 in Macon Co, IL to Dr. Stephen H. Swain
Children:
SWAIN, Ann Eliza (Pygott)
The funeral of Mrs. Anna E. Swain was held at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon at
the Methodist church in Maroa. The services were conducted by Rev. J.A. Barton of Dalton City.
The pallbearers were W.S. Edwards, R.E. Grubben, A.E. Stone, George Pitcher, Walter Rainey
and Mathew Cox. The interment was in the Maroa cemetery.
The Daily Review (Decatur), 18 Jul 1912
SWAIN, John William
MAROA MANS SUDDEN DEATH
While engaged at his duty, cleaning the boilers at the Suffern-Hunt plant
in Decatur last Sunday morning, J. H. SWAIN dropped dead from heart trouble. Mr. Swain
was a native of England, and came to America twenty-five years ago. His wife died three
years ago. Two sons, George and Thomas SWAIN, are well known farmers in Creek township
where their father often visited. Funeral services and burial at Maroa on Tuesday.
Clinton Register, DeWitt Co., IL, Friday, 1 Jan 1915
SWANTZ, Amelia
DIED OF HER INJURIES
Miss Amelia Swantz Passes Away at an Early This Morning
Miss Amelia, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Swantz, died this
morning at 1 oclock at the house of the parents, No. 1404 East North street, aged
19 years and 3 months.
The death of the deceased was caused by injuries received yesterday at
the Keck box factory. While at work yesterday her clothing caught in the machinery,
and the unfortunate lady was thrown violently to the floor. She was picked up unconscious,
but restoratives were administered and she came to but suffered terribly from nervousness.
A carriage was called and she was taken to her home and Dr. H.M. Wood was summoned. An
examination was made and no injuries of a serious character were discovered, although
there were numerous bruises on her body. At midnight the young lady grew worse and Drs.
Wood and Catto were summoned. A fractured blood vessel on the brain had caused paralysis
and the young lady, who 12 hours before was the picture of health, lay cold in death.
It was a deplorable accident and the many friends and the schoolmates of the deceased
will be grieved to learn of her fate. The time for the funeral has not been set. It
was about a year ago that a brother of the deceased was drowned while bathing in the
Sangamon River.
Decatur Daily Republican, 10 Aug 1894
SWARTZ, Edna May
Born: 13 Apr 1874 in Decatur, Macon Co, IL
Died: 2 Jul 1965 in Santa Barbara Co, CA
Buried:
Parents:
SWEARINGEN, Andrew
DIED - At residence of J.A. Swearingen, in this city, on Wednesday evening,
Jan. 21st., Mr. Andrew Swearingen, uncle of W.H. Swearingen, and great-uncle of J.A. Swearingen.
Deceased was born in Mason county, Kentucky, in 1798, and was therefore in his 82d year. He
has made his homw with Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Swearingen for several years, who spared no pains to
render his declining years happy and comfortable. Arrangements for the funeral are not yet
made.
Decatur Review, 22 Jan 1880
SWEET, Michael
Michael Sweet, a coal miner at Niantic, took a dose of poison some time
between Saturday night and Sunday noon which resulted in his death. It is said that
he came to Decatur Saturday and got the morphine with which to end his life, but the
evidence before the coroners jury does not show the character of the poison he took.
It showed however that Sweet had on several occasions threatened to end his own life.
He had been a hard drinker and had been “shut off” at the different saloons in Niantic.
A few years ago he was arrested and locked up on a charge of attempting to murder Charles
Connaghan, but was afterwards discharged from custody. Sweet was a man about 45 years old
and leaves a wife an several children. Coroner Bendure went to Niantic Sunday afternoon
and held an inquest on the remains. The jury was composed of Jesse Lockhart, foreman, G.D.
Kitch, George Phelan, George W. Smith, Enoch Martin and Michael Phelan. The witnesses and
their evidence was as follows:
Mary S_, a daughter of the deceased. He came home Wednesday and said this
was the last week he would be in Niantic. Have not seen him since Saturday night. He went
to Decatur, and it is supposed that he went to get poison. He said four weeks ago that he
did not want to live any longer.
Thomas Bullough – Am acquainted with the deceased. Saw him Saturday night.
He went to Mike Haber’s and asked for beer and was refused. I left and went up the street
and he followed me and said he had quit work and would not work any more. He said he would
die and went into Doran’s saloon and asked me to take a glass of beer. This was between 8
and 9 o’clock. He was also refused beer at Doran’s place.
Constable Michael Phelan – Was called down to his house last week by his son
Frank, who said the deceased had been threatening to use a knife on himself. Told him he
had better keep quiet. He pulled his knife and the assistance of the police was called to
help take it from him. He then made threats to burn the house. Saw him Saturday and think
he was in his right mind.
The jury brought in a verdict to the effect that the deceased came to his
death by taking an unknown poison with suicidal intent. The funeral took place yesterday
and the remains were interred in Long Point cemetery.
Weekly Herald-Despatch, Decatur IL, 11 Nov 1893, pg 2
SWICK, Samuel
Samuel Swick died at his home in Argenta Sunday night, March 8, at 11:45
aged 71 years. He leaves a wife, two daughters and two sons. Mr. Swick was a soldier
of the Civil war. Funeral services were held at the Methodist church Tuesday at 2
o’clock, conducted by Rev. D. O. Griffin. Interment in Friends Creek cemetery.
The Daily Review, Decatur IL, 11 Mar 1906
SWINEHART, Robert E.
DECATUR - Robert E. "Bob" Swinehart, 58, Decatur, died Friday (March 30, 2007).
Arrangements incomplete: Moran & Goebel Funeral Home.
Herald & Review (Decatur), 1 Apr 2007
Submitted by: Kathy Ikeda
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