Taylor County, Iowa Obituaries

Allen, Permelia - On Sunday Oct 21st [1883], Mrs Allen, living about one half mile south of Buchanan, quietly passed away from among the living. Her death was the final result of injuries received as has been narrated heretofore. From the time she was hurt her sufferings were terrible until death came to the rescue of her soul. Mrs Allen was known and esteemed by all for untiring faithfulness in relieving the afflicted and bereaved, and never was work so urgent or time so precious but she could go (if called upon) to relieve the sick.

Having always as much as possible led an exemplary christian life, she will be missed by us all on account of her many merits. She was the mother of ten children, four of whom have passed over the cold river of death before her, five of them being at her bedside at death, viz: Orlando Allen from Kansas, Winfield Allen from Rosendale, Mo, and Mrs Gant, Mrs Olive Ridgley and Mrs E.I. Oxley all of this county. She also had one son in California who was not present. She had 51 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Twenty-one of her grandchildren and three great-grandchildren accompanied by their parents and a large concourse of friends followed her to the grave. The funeral services were conducted by the Rev. E.B. Heaton at the Buchanan [Siam] church. Her remains were intered in the Shearer Cemetery.

Strange to say Mrs Allen was the fifth member of the family who met their death by accident. About ten years ago she had a daughter killed, Mrs E.I. Oxley (another daughter) having lost three children by accident. The first was a little girl thrown from a load of hay; the next a little boy kicked on the head by a horse and receiving such severe injuries as soon resulted in death. The last was a young man about twenty years of age who drowned in the Nodaway River three years ago. Such frequent recurrences of fatality have not visited many families.

The bereaved have the sympathy of the entire community. May God so keep them that when the dark angel of death shall come they may exclaim in the language of the prophet Samuel "Nither to the Lord hath helped us." Or in the language of Job, "I know that my Redeemer liveth and He will stand with me in the latter days upon this earth for though after my skin worms destroy this mortal body yet in my flesh shall I see God whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold and not another." T.A.Z.L.

Allen, Pamelia - Died, Mrs Pamelia Allen, on Sunday, the 21st ult., at her residence near Buchanan [Siam], in the seventieth year of her age. The deceased was born at Hartford, Connecticut, on the 9th of April 1814, but had lived in this county for many years. She was a widow, and the mother of ten children, six of whom survive her, one of them, being Mrs Ephraim Oxley, of Polk township. Mrs Allen was a devoted Christian, and for a long period had been a consistent member of the Christian church. Her death was calm, and peaceful and her dying words were, "I am ready to go." The funeral took place on Tuesday, at the Shearer cemetery, the services being conducted by Rev E.B. Heaton, of New Market. The attendance was very large. The Taylor County Republican, Bedford, Iowa, Nov 1, 1883

Abbott, Kenneth - An apparent heart attack was fatal Sunday to Kenneth Abbott, 72, former New Market business man, while at his home in Springfield, Mo. His sister, Mrs Harry Solomon, and Mr Solomon left this Monday to join his family, expecting that services would be at Springfield, and burial at Memory cemetery at New Market. Walker Funeral Home can be contacted in regard to local services.

His wife is the former Valera Combs of New Market, and they have a daughter Mrs Carl (Lolita) Albert whom they were planning to visit in New York State for Labor Day. The Alberts have a daughter.

He has been a real estate broker at Springfield for about 25 years.

Adams, Barton Francis - Barton Francis Adams, son of Jonathan and Hannah Lewellen Adams, was born in Taylor county, Iowa, Nov 19, 1855, and died at the old home place, where he was born, Feb 24, 1951, at the age of 95 years, 3 months and 5 days. He had spent almost all of his entire life in this vicinity.

On November 14, 1875, he was united in marriage to Lyddia Smith at Sedan, Kans, who died a few years later. One child survives this union, Mrs Emma Middleton of San Antonio, Tex.

On February 22, 1881, he was united in marriage to Miss Laura Hazelbaker at Bedford, Iowa. She preceded him in death on March 5, 1923.

He is survived by the following: Loyd at home, Lester of Gravity, Elmer of Bedford, Ethel at home, Mrs Grace Hipsley of near New Market, 5 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Mrs Bertha Thompson, on October 24, 1908, a son John Wesley on Oct 31, 1946, and an infant son Floyd.

He is also survived by a sister, Mrs Elizabeth Andre of Telluride, Colo, two half-sisters, Mrs Susan Campbell of Bedford, and Mrs Lucy Bean of Clarinda, one half-brother, Sanford Adams of Clarinda.

He had been a member of the Baptist church for 58 years. He attended church services as long as his health permitted, acting as superintendent for many years. He was always interested in anything that was for the betterment of the community.

Funeral services were held at the Baptist church in New Market February 28 at 2 pm with Rev Fred H. Cowles in charge. Music was furnished by Opal McDonald and Verla Malcom.

Pallbearers were Carl Hughes, Ralph Andrew, Glen Spring, Elsey Guillett, Earl Coy, and C.G. Hipsley. Interment was in Old Memory cemetery at New Market.

 Acree, John – John Acree died at his home near Siam [Iowa] May 28, at 10:30 a.m. He was almost 72 years of age.

He was born in Tennessee and came to Page Co [Iowa], in 1862 where he lived until 1881 when he moved to Nebraska. Four years ago he returned and has lived here ever since.

He was married to Miss Lydia Andrews of Jimtown, Ind., who died in 1886. Two years later he married Mrs Nancy Anderson, who survives him. Besides his wife he leaves five children, Mrs Wes Miller, Mrs Cabe Miller, Al James and John Acree all were with him at his death except John, who resides in California.

Funeral services were held at the Christian Church in Siam Thursday, May 29, at 11 am conducted by Rev W.O. Hutchings.

Mr Acree was a man of sterling qualities and besides relatives leaves a host of friends to mourn his death.

Clarinda Herald, Clarinda, Iowa, Jun 3, 1902

Ashman, Minnie - Graveside services for Minnie Ashman, age 88, of Lenox, who died Saturday, April 14, 2007 at the Lenox Care Center were held Tuesday, April 16, 2007 at 3 p.m. at the Beacon Cemetery in Beacon, Iowa. Memorials can be given in Minnie's name. Minnie is the sister of Ruth Reynolds of Lenox. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at Ritchie Funeral Home under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Andrew,  Letha E., age 102, of Villisca, Iowa, formerly of Guss, Iowa, died Sunday, November 13, 2005, at the Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center, Villisca, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m., Thursday, November 17, 2005 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Rev. Lowell Schaaf officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 7-8 p.m., Wednesday, November 16, 2005 at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Guss, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Maple Grove United Methodist Church, Guss, Iowa. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Letha Emily Andrew daughter of William and Nora Whitehill Weller was born September 30, 1903, in Nodaway Township, Taylor County, Iowa and passed away at the Good Samaritan Care Center, Villisca, Iowa at the age of 102. In 1911, she moved with her parents to Page County where she attended Sunny Slope School and later Villisca High School. On March 14, 1928, she was united in marriage to Evan Andrew and moved to a farm two miles west of the Guss church where she lived until September 2002. To this union three children were born, Willard, Dorothy and Robert.

Letha was a member of the Guss Maple Grove Church and she was president of the Guss U.M.W. for eight years. She taught a Sunday School class for a number of years.

Letha is survived by her children, Willard Andrew and wife Margaret of Clarinda, Iowa, Dorothy McAlpin of Kansas City, Missouri, Robert Andrew and wife Donna of Mesa, Arizona; six grandchildren; six great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews as well as many friends. Letha was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Evan; brother, Freddie Weller; two sisters, Florence White and Hazel Rossander; daughter-in-law, Garland Andrew; grandsons, Ricky McAlpin and Tony Andrew and one great grandchild, Molly McAlpin.

Ames, Crystal Virginia
Crystal Virginia Ames, daughter of Dallas Bernard and Ethel
Violet Peterman Howes, was born, March 22, 1925 in Bedford, Iowa.
She departed this life, Tuesday, January 30, 2007 in her home in
Buffalo, Missouri at the age of eighty-one years, ten months and eight
days.
On December 9, 1943 in Maryville, Missouri, she was united in
marriage to E. N. Ames and to this union seven children were born.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Richard Loran
Ames; two daughters, Cheri Carlene Ames and Virginia Rae Ames
and two brothers, Dallas Howes, Jr. and Benny Howes.
Survivors include her loving husband of sixty-three years, E.N.
Ames of the home; two daughters, Rayma Bax of Las Vegas, Nevada;
and Ronda Glaspy and her husband Mike of Blairstown, Missouri;
two sons, Lindell Ames and his wife Janna of Warrenton, Missouri
and Rendell Ames and Tammy of Buffalo, Missouri; thirteen
grandchildren, Brandon Loving, Emma Glaspy, Whitney Ames, Lacee
Ames, Ila Ames, Clint Glaspy, Zachary Ames, Anna Bax, Gabriel
Ames, Sarah Ames, Annabelle Ames, Sophie Bax and Noah Ames; a
great-granddaughter, Mya; two brothers, David Howes of Red Oak,
Iowa and Richard Howes of Greenfield, Iowa; seven sisters, Naomi
Moore of Bedford, Iowa, Marilyn Bradley of Charles City, Iowa,
Anita Hall of Shenandoah, Iowa, Lois Young of Sac City, Iowa, Ruth
Marsh of Sac City, Iowa, Linda Hull of Bedford, Iowa and Jean
Marsh of the state of Texas and a host of nieces, nephews and other
relatives and friends.
Crystal was raised in rural Taylor County, Iowa and graduated
from Bedford High School in 1942. After she and her husband were
married they continued to live in Bedford where she taught school for
a time. During World War II she assisted the war effort by working in
a defense plant in Parsons, Kansas. After the war, she and E.N. lived
in Sheridan, Missouri, later moving to Columbia, Jefferson City and
then to Camdenton in 1964. In October of 2006, they moved to
Buffalo, Missouri.
Crystal enjoyed being a waitress and had worked at the Eat
More Caf‚ and Texaco Town, both in Columbia. She worked at the
Odom Caf‚ and the Night Hawk Caf‚ in Camdenton. She later owned
and operated Crystal's Bake and Coffee Shop and Piggy's Ice Cream
Shop.

Crystal was a charter-member of the V.F.W. Post 5923 Ladies
Auxiliary and a life-member of the American Legion Post 193.
She made a profession of faith in Christ and was a charter-
member of the Camdenton United Methodist Church.
In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening and grew many
beautiful flowers. She enjoyed reading and loved to cook and bake.
She especially enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.
Crystal was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother,
sister and aunt and was a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate
her life and accomplishments and will cherish the memories she
created for her family and friends.
Funeral service with V.F.W. Auxiliary honors will be held at
10:00 a.m., Saturday, February 3, 2007 in Allee-Holman-Howe
Funeral Home with Reverend Marc Magana and Reverend Keith Lee
officiating. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Friday in the funeral
home. Graveside service and burial will be at 2:00 p.m., Sunday,
February 4, 2007 in Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa.
Memorial donations may be made to the Regional Care Hospice
and left at the funeral home.
Arrangements are under the direction of Allee-Holman-Howe
Funeral Home of Camdenton.

Ambrose, Delores - Funeral services for Delores Ambrose, age 71 of Gravity, who died Thursday, December 6, 2007 at the Clarinda Regional Health Center were held Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bedford United Methodist Church. Interment was held in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the Hearing Impaired in care of the family. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Alvarez, Al - Services for Al Alvarez, age 80, of  Leavenworth, Kansas, formerly of Athelstan, who
died Saturday, January 28, 2006 were held Friday, February 3, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie
Funeral Home. Interment with military rites accorded by the Blockton American Legion Post
No. 443 were held in the Athelstan Cemetery in Athelstan. Memorials can be given in his name.

Manuel "Al" Garcia Alvarez was born October 19, 1925, in Thurber, Texas. He was raised and
adopted by Maximo Alvarez and Rosa (Correa) Alvarez at infancy in Monika, Illinois. At the age
of 17 Al was drafted into the United States Army faithfully serving his country during World War II,
and the Korean War. Al was wounded and received the Purple Heart and two Bronze Stars. He
continued to serve his country for 24 years and 6 months with his discharge in 1966 at Fort
Leonardwood, Missouri. He went to work, for a short time, at the Correctional Facility in Jefferson
City, Missouri before being transferred to the Kansas State Penitentiary where he worked for 37
years, retiring in September of 2004. Al was united in marriage to Maxine Mae Schuster on
Christmas Day, 1967. They were best friends and enjoyed many years together. Maxine helped raise
Al's son Larry, and he was the ring bearer at their wedding.

Al enjoyed reading and had a very thorough grasp of history. He was active all of his life. He enjoyed
driving and working on his 1931 Model "A" Pickup. He liked flowers and spending time in his
garden. After his retirement, Al mowed grass and continued to work in his garden. Al was a kind
hearted man who was an inspiration to others.

Left to cherish Al's memory are his son Larry Alvarez and wife Maggie of Catonville, Maryland;
three daughters, Betty Secosh of Titusville, Florida; Nancy King of Tennessee; and Brenda Alvarez of
Waynesville, Missouri; two step-daughters Kay Ellis and husband Michael of Moberly, Missouri;
and Rosie Harper of Leavenworth, Kansas; eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Preceding Al in death were his parents Maximo and Rosa; a son John Alvarez and a grandson Michael.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Al's passing.

Memorial services for Mary Margaret (Moore) Allen, age 92 of Creston, formerly of Gravity, who died Sunday, January 13, 2008 at Creston Nursing & Rehab were held Saturday, January 19, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home. Burial of ashes was held in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials can be given in her name. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
Mary Margaret (Moore) Allen was the youngest daughter born to Johnnie J. Moore and Alice (Dwyer) Moore. She was born in Corning, Iowa on August 1, 1915. She was baptized at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning when she was six months old. The family moved from a farm north of Corning which today is a part of “Lake Icara”. They purchased a farm one mile south of Gravity, and a mile east in 1921.
Mary Margaret attended grade school at Lee No. 7 Rural School, Washington Township, Taylor Count. She attended Gravity High School, graduating with the class of 1933. She may be remembered by some as a ‘star guard’ on the basketball team for three years. After high school she received her teaching certificate from Corning while attending a summer school session at a branch educational facility from Cedar Falls Teacher’s College of Iowa. She taught rural schools in Ross and Washington Townships, located in Taylor County, Iowa for fourteen years.
On August 29, 1947, she was united in marriage to Dean Calvin Allen in Plattsmouth, Nebraska. To this union one son, John Dean, was born on August 9, 1948. John passed away February 2, 1956, a victim of Leukemia.
Mary Margaret began substitute teaching in the Omaha Public Schools, teaching in grades one through six. Husband Dean worked as a warehouse manager at Johnson Wax Company and later at the United Distiller Liquor Company.
Mary Margaret attended Omaha University receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, as well as a Master’s Degree at Creighton University of Omaha. She then taught twenty-six years at Adams School in Omaha, serving as a head teacher for sixteen years, as well as library supervisor. She was also instrumental in pioneering the “Challenge Program” for the 4th, 5th, and 6th graders of Adams School, with the capable assistance of the late Craig Tullerton. Assistant Superintendent of the Omaha Elementary Schools.
Mary Margaret was gifted with an outgoing personality and readily made friends. She was known to “speak her mind at times’ on various subjects. Some people thought she would never shut-up, but that didn’t seem to bother her “chatterbox ability’. She enjoyed writing letters, writing as she talked, most happy to keep in touch with old friends.
Left to cherish Mary Margaret’s memory are several cousins, nieces, nephews and a host of dear friends.

Acree, Thomas H.

THOMAS H. ACREE
Bedford Times Review                        November 6, 1958

Thomas Acree Dies in Hoodriver, Oregon
"Thomas H. Acree, a former resident of the Siam community, died at Hoodriver,
Oregon, Oct. 20, following an illness with a heart ailment.

He was the son of Albert and Lydia Cox Acree and grew to manhood at Siam.  He
taught rural schools in Taylor County and the Siam school for a number of
years before moving west.

He is survived by his wife, the former Miss. Lulu Lomax of Bedford, and a
sister, Mrs. Verna McPherren and one brother, Earl Acree of Oregon.  He was
preceded in death by his parents, by two brothers, O.L. Acree and Albert
Acree, and by one sister, Mrs. Nora Harley.

Last rites and burial were at Hoodriver"

Acree, Lydia Cox

LYDIA (COX) ACREE
Bedford Times Republican                    June 24, 1909

Shock Proved Fatal
Mrs. J. A. Acree of Siam Dies at Maryville Hospital

Mrs. J. A. Acree of Siam died at the hospital at Maryville, Monday evening at
11 o'clock.   She had been in ill health a long time and three weeks ago her
condition became serious.  Later it became apparent that a surgical operation
offered the only chance of recovery.   She was taken to the hospital at
Maryville Monday, June 14, and a week later an operation performed.   In her
weakened condition she could not resist the shock and passed away soon after.

Mrs. Lydia Acree was 47 years of age and most of her life was spent in Taylor
County.  For several years she has had charge of the Mutual Central telephone
exchange at Siam and was known to nearly everyone in that vicinity.   She is
survived by her husband and six children.  All are at home except the eldest
daughter who is the wife of Bert Harley and resides near Bedford."

Acree Lydia Cox

LYDIA (COX) ACREE
Bedford Free Press                      June 24, 1909

Siam News
"Relatives arrived here with the remains of Mrs. Albert Acree Tuesday
afternoon from Maryville, where they took her about a week ago for treatment
of a tumor.  They operated on her Monday but she only lived nine hours after
the operation was performed.

While her neighbors and friends know of the seriousness of her condition when
they learned of her death.  At time for the past two or three years she had
suffered untold pain and agony and has born her suffering with patience,
characteristic of a Christian life.  Mrs. Acree leaves to mourn her loss a
husband, four sons and two daughters.  The bereaved family have sympathy of
the entire community."

Akers, Francis Wayne, was born September 23, 1951 in Maryville , Missouri to Francis Leroy and Bonnie Lee (Humphrey) Akers. He was married to Barbara Miller on November 8, 1985 at the Courthouse in Bedford, Iowa.

After graduating Bedford High School Wayne enlisted in the Air Force in 1970 during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Thailand and Laos. He served until 1973. Wayne was a repairman on aircraft, truck driver, and the recovery of soldiers among other assignments.

After an honorable discharge from the US Air Force Wayne worked on constructing the highway and bridge between Clarinda and New Market. Hoover-NSK opened in Clarinda and in 1976 he started working at the manufacturing plant. Wayne worked for there for 29 years without an absence until May 2005 when he went on medical leave due to his illness.

After nearly a year of fighting esophageal cancer and other complications he passed away at Jennie Edmondson Memorial Hospital in Council Bluffs, IA, Saturday morning, March 25, 2005. He will be missed by family, co-workers, friends and neighbors.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Geri Miller.

He is survived by his wife Barb of Clarinda; children Shawn Thompson and wife Angie of Omaha, NE, Heather and husband Pat Rehder of Omaha, NE, and Cody Akers of Denver, CO; brother Jeff Akers of Gravity, Iowa; mother Bonnie Akers of Gravity, Iowa ; and two grandchildren, Chase Rehder and Kail Thompson.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 Thursday, March 30, 2005 at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Clarinda, with Rev. Charles Bulger and Dr. Tim Roehl officiating. Burial will be at Covenanter Cemetery, Clarinda. Family visitation is 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Clarinda. Memorials are suggested to Clarinda Fire Department Ladder Truck, Nodaway Valley Free Clinic, or American Cancer Society. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Allen, William Thomas, was born in Morgan County, Kentucky, July 11, 1835. Died in Siam, Ia., January 26, 1914, aged 78 years, 6 months and 13 days.

When a small boy his parents moved to Park county, Indiana, and in 1852 to Iowa, and in 1891, with his family, he moved to Taylor county, Iowa, where he has since made his home. He was married to Hannah E. Nelson in Powesheik county [Iowa] in 1867. He was the father of nine children, two dying in infancy. He leaves to mourn his loss, his wife and seven children, three boys and four girls: J.C., S.H., and I.F. Allen, Viola Musgrove, Hattie Landon, Arren Culbertson and Mattie Clayton, besides twenty-one grandchildren, one great grandchild, two brothers and one sister. He united with the Christian church in early manhood. He has been a devoted member of the Masonic Fraternity for fifty-seven years. Also a member of the I.O.O.F. Fraternity. In 1862 he enlisted in the 40th Iowa Infantry at Oskaloosa, Ia., serving three years, and was discharged at Fort Gibson, Cherokee Nation, August 2, 1865, at the close of the War.

Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Feb 17, 1914

Allen, Hannah E. Nelson - [part of this obituary is gone and I have indicated where it is missing ] Hannah E. Nelson Allen was born in Salem county, New Jersey, May 19, 1849, and departed this life on Tuesday, Feb 18, 1923, at the home of her son, Steven Allen in Sheridan, Wyo., aged 74 years, 8 months and 24 days.

On Nov 7, 1866, in Powe[---] county, Iowa, she was united in m[--]riage to William T. Allen, who passed away in the old home in Siam, Iowa, Jan 26, 1914.

To this union eight children were born, two, Ada Frances and Isaac David, dying in infancy. The child-[--] Allen and [--] Wyo, and Mrs [--] son, Iowa, and on [--] Allen of Barnes City [--] are also 19 grandchildren [--] grandchildren.

Of a family of eight children [--] sisters and two brothers survive. Mrs Steven Robertson of New Sharon, Iowa; Mrs P.L. Bryant, Mrs Arrena Dotson and Elmer Nelson of Marland, Okla, and John Nelson of Tulsa, Okla, and many friends.

She united with the Church of Christ in Kansas in early life and on moving to Iowa placed her membership with the Siam Church of Christ, of which she remained a faithful member and devoted servant of God.

She was also an honored member of the order of the Eastern Star.

Aunt Hannah, as she was familiarly and lovingly known here, spent most of her life in and near Siam, until her health failed. The past two years have been mostly spent with her children where she was tenderly cared for.

The short time she spent lately in Siam she received many attentions from loving friends, especially Mrs C.A. Clayton, Mrs Richard Potter and her niece, Mrs John Miller.

Mrs Arch Clayton and Frank Allen were the only ones of her children able to be present at the funeral which was held on Friday, Feb 16, at 1:30 pm , in the Church of Christ. Sermon by Rev Ray Snodgrass of Maryville, Mo. Singers were Mrs Floyd McPherren, Mrs Hugh Reid, C.A. Clayton and Will Miller, with Miss Thelma Fine at the piano. Paul bearers were John Stickleman, M.W. Miller, Oliver [--]

Bedford Free-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Mar 1923 [date missing]

[This obituary should also be in the Bedford Times-Republican, Feb 15, 1923]

[121] Ashford, Jennie Keene - Funeral services for Mrs Jennie Ashford, 71, colored, who died at the home of her daughter, Mrs K.A. Bristol in Chicago, Monday, Jan 8, were held at the Wetmore Funeral Home in Bedford Thursday afternoon, conducted by Rev Clark M. Crowell. Burial was in the Bedford Cemetery.

Mrs Ashford, whose maiden name was Keene, was born in Boone county, Mo., Jan 26, 1863. When she was quite young her father joined the union forces and her mother moved to Illinois. At the age of eighteen she came to Iowa with her parents and located in Taylor county.

March 4, 1896 she married J.A. Ashford. To them were born three children, two sons and a daughter. Mrs Ashford was a resident of Bedford for about 50 years, having spent the past few years with her children. She was a member of the Pilgrims Rest Baptist church in Bedford, having participated in its organization.

Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Jan 18, 1934

Acree, John - A Pioneer Gone - John Acree died at his home near Siam May 28, at 10:30. He was almost 72 years of age.

He was born in Tennessee and came to Page co, in 1862 where he lived until 1881 when he moved to Nebraska. Four years ago he returned and has lived here ever since.

He was married to Miss Lydia Andrews of Jimtown, Ind., who died in 1886. Two years later he married Mrs Nancy Anderson, who survives him. Besides his wife he leaves five children, Mrs Wes Miller, Mrs Cabe Miller, Al James and John Acree all were with him at his death except John, who resides in California.

Funeral services were held at the Christian Church in Siam Thursday, May 29, at 11 a.m. conducted by Rev W.O. Hutchings.

Mr Acree was a man of sterling qualities and besides relatives leaves a host of friends to mourn his death.

Clarinda Herald, Clarinda, Iowa, Jun 3, 1902

Services for Jack Duane Ambrose, 61, Gravity, were held August 30 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home with Rev. Paul Shultz officiating. Burial was at Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Mr. Ambrose died August 27, 1989 at his home in in Gravity.

Jack Duane Ambrose, son of Frank and Lena Shields Ambrose was born at Dalton, Neb. on June 26, 1928. He lived in Gravity where he grew to maturity and attended public school. He was a member of the 1945 Gravity High School graduating class. He served his country  during  the Korean conflict from 1950 to 1952.
On February 16, 1954 he was united in marriage to Delores Moffett at Nevada, Mo., and they made their home in Gravty. To this union four children were born: Charles, Curtis, Rodney and Carol.
He was employed by the State of Iowa at the Clarinda Mental Health Institute for 30 years before his illness forced him to retire in November of 1988.

He was preceded m death by his parents, Frank and Lena Ambrose, his brother Gail Ambrose, his father-in-law, a sister-in-law and four brothers-in-law.   

                                                 
Left to cherish his memory are his wife Delores; his children, Charles Ambrose and wife Helen of Gravity, Curtis Ambrose and wife Kathy of Corning, Rodney Ambrose and wife Barbara of Gravity, and his daughter Carol Ambrose of Shenandoah; nine grandchildren; two sisters, two brothers, a mother-in-law, four sisters-in-law, two brothers-in-law, numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Jack was a longtime member of the Gravity American Legion, Post 578, and the Gravity Volunteer Fire Department.

He loved to hunt and fish with his family and friends and took special joy in teaching his grandsons to fish.

Jack will be missed by all who knew and loved him. [Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Sep 06, 1989]

Ambrose, Carol Lynn - Memorial services for Carol Ambrose, age 46 of Bedford, who died Thursday, December 10, 2009 at her home in Gravity were held Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Bedford. Interment of ashes will be held at a later date at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials can be given in her name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Carol Lynn Ambrose, the daughter of Jack Duane Ambrose and Delores Francis (Moffett) Ambrose was born October 8, 1963, in Corning, Iowa and passed away December 10, 2009 at her home in Gravity, Iowa.

Carol was born and raised in Gravity where she grew up attending school in Gravity and graduating from Bedford High School with the Class of 1982. She continued her education in the field of nursing, graduating from Southwestern Community College with an Associates Degree of Nursing in 1985. She worked in several medical facilities, with her last employment being at the Westridge Nursing & Rehab in Clarinda, Iowa. Carol took great pleasure working with both residents and staff. After she was unable to work, she continued to be friends with many from Westridge.

Carol was actively involved in Rainbow, Order of Eastern Star where she held the position of Worthy Advisor and Worthy Matron. She was also a Cub Scout and Boy Scout Leader for many years. In her leadership position with the Scouts, Carol had the privilege of leading her nephews into becoming Eagle Scouts. She also enjoyed taking trips to various states with the Scouts.

Carol very much enjoyed crafts, scrap booking, collecting Boyd’s Bears, Terry Redlin prints and Fire King Dishes. She was always taking photographs and above all, Carol was an avid Iowa Hawkeye Fan! Carol’s life was her family . . . .along with her dogs and cats. Her beloved dogs were Golden Retrievers known to everyone as Nutmeg, Stormy and Lizzy. These dogs remained her loyal and devoted friends throughout her adult life.

Carol was baptized in the Gravity United Methodist Church, later transferring her membership to the Bedford United Methodist Church where she remained loyal to her church and faith until the time of her death.

Left to cherish the memories of a wonderful sister, aunt, nurse and friend are her brothers, Charles Ambrose and wife Helen of Gravity; Curt Ambrose and wife Tami of Tiffin, Iowa; and Rod Ambrose and wife Shannon of Brooks Alberta, Canada; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

Preceding Carol in death are her parents, Jack and Delores Ambrose.

Although Carol will be greatly missed,
her love and inspiration will live on through her family.

Anderson, Kermit "Andy" - Kermit “Andy” Wendell Anderson was born April 19, 1928 in Alcester, South Dakota the son of Kris Anderson and Elsie (Hemmer) Anderson. He grew up attending school in Alcester. After school he worked on a construction crew until he was drafted into the United States Air Force, serving from 1951 to 1959. Upon his discharge he was united in marriage to Pauline “Petunia” Glick on October 9, 1955 in Wyoming. After their marriage Andy and Petunia eventually setteled in Vincent, Iowa where they took over a local tavern known as “Andy’s Tap”. Together he and Petunia ran this business for many years where they enjoyed serving the local community wonderful homemade food and drinks. While living in Vincent, Andy also worked at the local co-op.

In 1989, they decided to retire and purchased acreage in the Bushville / Lenox, Iowa area. While living here they enjoyed raising livestock and chickens. They were mostly known for raising exotic house dogs which they sold. Andy was an avid deer hunter and outdoors man. Together he and Petunia would look forward to their yearly trips to visit their nephew Bob Workman where they would enjoy fishing together. Andy loved being in his workshop where he repaired farm machinery.

Left to cherish Andy’s memory are his loving wife Petunia Anderson of the Bushville/Lenox area; a sister Vennetta Lund of Eagle Grove; and a nephew Bob Workman and wife Linda of Oklahoma and their children, Lacy, Amy and Andy; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Andy in death are his parents Kris and Elsie Anderson; a brother Dwayne Anderson; and two sisters Neldred Prewitt and Lorraine Floyd.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Andy’s passing.

Burial was in Grove Cemetery near Lenox, Iowa. Services by Ritchie Funeral Home, Lenox, Iowa.

Anderson, Raymond Lee "Ray" - Funeral Services for Ray Anderson, age 77 of Bedford who died Friday, December 8, 2006 at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center were held Monday, December 11, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials can be directed to the Nazarene Church Building Fund. Memories can be shared with the family on our web site at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Raymond Lee Anderson was born December 24, 1928 in Cuba, Kansas the son of Edward Anderson and Frieda (Gilmore) Anderson. He grew up in Cuba, Kansas attending rural schools and then moved to Lincoln, Nebraska to work, later settling in Omaha. He met Marian Eggers and they dated for one month and were united in marriage. In 1952, Ray was drafted into the United States Army. Upon his discharge, the couple purchased a farm and moved to the Glenwood area. Ray continued farming and trucking for his brother’s business Anderson Excavating. In 1975, the family moved to a farm southeast of Bedford. In 1988, Marian passed away and in August of 1990, Ray was united in marriage to Nancy Coulter.

Ray was a member of the Gravity Church of the Nazarene where he enjoyed attending Sunday services each week. Ray loved to farm, he simply enjoyed everything about his farming operation. He enjoyed country music and went to the Towncreek Oprey in Stanberry, Missouri and also to Ravenwood every Friday night. Together he and Nancy would enjoy traveling to Branson, Missouri every year to attend shows. The couple enjoyed spending time together, traveling to Hawaii and Cabo San Lucas and even Alaska!

Left to cherish Ray’s memory are his wife Nancy Anderson of Bedford; two sons, David Anderson of Bedford; and Tim Anderson and wife Vicky of Urbandale; a step-son, James Reed of Davenport; three step-daughters, Nancy Ingalls and husband Larry of College Springs; Judy Tate of Colona, Illinois; and Linda Meirhaeghe and husband Joe of Orion, Illinois; a brother Virgil Anderson and wife Virginia of Council Bluffs; a sister Patty Jones and husband Leroy of Chester, Nebraska; eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Preceding Ray in death are his parents Ed and Frieda Anderson; his first wife Marian in 1988; and two brothers, Millard and Keith Anderson.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Ray’s passing.

Ashman, Minnie Irene Wurster - Graveside services for Minnie Ashman, age 88, of Lenox, who died Saturday, April 14, 2007 at the Lenox Care Center were held Tuesday, April 16, 2007 at 3 p.m. at the Beacon Cemetery in Beacon, Iowa. Memorials can be given in Minnie’s name. Minnie is the sister of Ruth Reynolds of Lenox. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Minnie Irene Ashman was born July 14, 1918, on a farm two miles west of Lenox, the daughter of John F. Wurster and Mary E. (Lee) Wurster. At the age of fifteen, she worked in a nursing home in Oskaloosa, Iowa for ten years. Minnie then moved to Louisville, Kentucky where she was Foreman of Spaulding and Sons Laundry for seven years. She was converted at the Walnut Street Baptist Church in 1943. In 1951, after World War II, she moved back to Oskaloosa and worked at Pella Rollscreen Plant in Pella for twenty-five years until her retirement. She was a member of the Christian Church in Lenox. Minnie was united in marriage to William G. Ashman, Sr., in 1958, at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Des Moines. Following the death of her husband in 1984, Minnie moved back to her home town of Lenox in 1987.

Minnie’s favorite times were spent caring for her home and being with her children and grandchildren. She loved being outdoors with nature and especially enjoyed the birds. Her favorite pastime was listening to music and reading her Bible. Minnie also enjoyed cooking, her dogs and always looked forward to Sunday afternoon drives.

Left to cherish Minnie’s memory are her sister, Ruth Reynolds of Lenox; a sister-in-law, Mary Wurster of Lenox; four step-sons, William Ashman, Jr., and wife Leona of Oskaloosa; Robert Ashman and wife Martha of East Dubuque; Brice Ashman and wife Margaret of Des Moines; and Gordon Ashman and wife Teresa of Indianola; a step-daughter, Wilda Current and husband Bob of Indianola; twelve step-grandchildren; several step-great-grandchildren; and many step-great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding Minnie in death are her parents, John and Mary Wurster; her husband, William Ashman; a sister, Dorothy Crisp; two brothers, Russell and Clifford Wurster; and one sister-in-law, Irene Wurster