Obituaries |
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com |
[ALEXANDER, JOHN HESLER] Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, July 29, 1954, p. 5 JOHN HESLER ALEXANDER John Hesler Alexander, son of Francis and Polly Alexander, was born May 18, 1900 near Yorktown and died July 18, 1954 at the Municipal hospital at the age of 64 years and two months. He was united in marriage to Johanna Obst on January 1, 1919. To this union three children were born. His wife and two children preceded him in death, also his father, mother, three brothers, Charles, Wray and Edward, and one sister, Myrtle Caruthers. He was married to Eva Delaney of Gravity on March 17, 1932. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife Eva, one daughter Mrs. Ralph (Myrtle) Smalley, two step-daughters, Mrs. Harold Churchill and Mrs. Ivan Carmichael of Gravity; two grandchildren, Robert and Christine Smalley of Clarinda, two step grandchildren, Patricia and Connie Carmichael of Gravity; one sister, Mrs. Nellie Hipsley of Shenandoah; one brother, George R. Alexander of Lemmon, S Dak and many other relatives and friends. He was a member of the Methodist church at Gravity. He was affiliated with the Gravity Sunlight Lodge AF & AM No. 459, IOOF, Victory Lodge No. 11 and Rebekah Lodge No. 56. He was a veteran of World War I and a member of the American Legion. Funeral services were held at the Gravity Methodist church, July 20 with Rev Lester Greenwood and Rev Howard DeVore officiating. Pallbearers were Tug Russell, Max Masmar, Arlo Babcock of Clarinda; Jim Ackley, Clair Rynor and Galen Corum of Gravity. Gordon Hill sang, "Does Jesus Care" and "Beyond the Sunset," accompanied by Grace Gray. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, June 22, 1994 DEAN C. ALLEN Funeral services for Dean C. Allen were held Monday. June 20, 1994 at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Woldruff officiating. Military honors were conducted by Gravity American legion Post No. 578. Burial was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Dean Calvin Allen was born December 26, 1923 in Iowa City. Iowa. When he was two weeks old he was adopted by Merle and Mina Allen, and grew to manhood in their loving home. He departed this life on June 17, 1994 at his home in Omaha at the age of 70 years, five months, 21 days, after a two-year illness. Dean attended Holt No. 8 rural school, graduating from Gravity High School in 1941, and was a member of the Oak Hill Community Church. He served three years in World War II, being stationed at Attu, Alaska and Puerto Rico. On August 20, 1947, he was united in marriage to Mary Margaret Moore at Plattsmouth, Neb. and lived near Bedford and Gravity for a few years before moving to Omaha, Neb. To this union, one child was born, August 9, 1948, who preceded him in death at the age of seven. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 26, 1979 Final Rites Held July 21 for Mina May Allen Funeral services for Mrs. Merle (Mina May) Allen, 83, of Bedford, were held July 21 in Shum-Novinger Funeral home, with Carl Cummings officiating. Mrs. Allen died July 19, 1979 in the Bedford Manor Nursing Home. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Ia. Mina May Wilson, daughter of Alexander F. Wilson and Flora May Wilson was born in Polk County, Grimes, Iowa; December, 15,1895. On January 22, 1916, Mina was united in marriage to Merle Robert Allen at her parents' home near Des Moines. On February 22, 1924, a son Dean Calvin was welcomed into the home. Mrs. Allen was well known in this community, living most of her life in Taylor County, in the Oak Hill vicinity, and was a member of the Oak Hill Christian Church. In the fall of 1943, the Allens purchased a farm east of Bushville, where they lived for 22 years. Mina was a quiet, unassuming nature, hardworking, a home loving person, honest and upright in all things. She read her Bible daily, which was her constant companion and comforting guide. Mina was especially happy if she was busy doing some act of kindness for someone. She enjoyed company and got great satisfaction serving bountiful meals to friends and relatives. Mina and Merle were privileged to celebrate their 50 wedding anniversary in their home in 1966 and spent 11 more years together. On February 1, 1968, the Allens moved to Bedford, Iowa and became members of the Baptist Church. Mr. Allen died August 28, 1977. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her only grandchild, John Dean, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dean Allen of Omaha, Nebraska. Survivors include her son Dean and wife, Mary Margaret, of Omaha, Nebraska; two sisters and two brothers, Mrs. Evelyn Pledge, Des Moines, Iowa; Mrs. Alice Henry, Woodward, Iowa; Leland Wilson, Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Gerald Wilson, Puyallup, Washington, and other relatives as well as many friends. All that human hands could do could not keep her, and she was called [to] her eternal home. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Those From Away Attend Services Those from a distance who attended Mina May Allen's service Saturday, July 21 were: Mrs. Evelyn Pledge, Des Moines, Iowa; Mrs. Evelyn Teatsworth, Des Moines, Iowa; Mrs. John Henry, Woodward, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Lee Auxier, Woodward, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Richard A. Wilson, Boone, Iowa; Mr. Leland Wilson, and granddaughter, Pam, Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Hensch, Bradenton, Florida; Mr. Howard Allen, Prescott, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Lester Regan, Creston, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Allen, son, Jon, Maryville, Mo; Mr. and Mrs. Hampton Wintermute, Maryville, Mo; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Cerven, daughter, Janet and Patty, Osceola, Iowa; Mrs. Julia Hendrickson, Red Oak, Iowa; Mrs. Anna Thomas, Lenox, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Thomas, Omaha, Nebraska. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 2, 1979 Mina Wilson Allen died at Colonial Manor July 19 at 83 yrs. Mina came to the Oak Hill area as the bride of Merle Allen in 1916 and they observed their 50th anniversary at their farm home east of Bushville before moving to Bedford. Many friends have preceded her in death but she will be remembered for her love and helping hand by many of the younger folks, many who aren't so young anymore. Merle and Mina loved to have the young folks of the area at their home. [AMBROSE, ELEAZAR FRANKLIN "FRANK"] Clarinda Herald Journal, November 19, 1970 ELEAZAR FRANKLIN AMBROSE Eleazar Franklin Ambrose, better known to his friends as Frank, the eldest son of Jacob Henry and Nancy Almeda Ambrose was born on a farm near Gravity, Iowa on July 10, 1887 and passed away on November 11, 1970 at the age of 83 years, 4 months, and 1 day. He attended the Gravity Public Schools and graduated with the class of 1905. During the years 1911-1915 he taught three terms of school in Taylor County Schools and later attended the Gem City Business College in Quincy, Illinois. On January 15, 1912 he was married to Lena Shields of Gravity. To this union were born four sons and two daughters. In 1919 he left Gravity and operated a General Store in Dalton, Nebraska, returning to Gravity in 1930 where he engaged in farming until 1942. He was employed by the Akin Lumber Company, later becoming its manager until his retirement in 1962. As a young man he joined the Baptist Church in Gravity and later transferred his membership' to the Christian Church in Gravity which he cherished until the time of his death. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Dr E C Ambrose; a son, Gail; two grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law. Besides his wife, Lena, he is survived by two daughters, Iola Miller of Iowa City, Iowa; Geraldine (Mrs Frank Souder) of Rockwell City, Iowa; three, sons, Wade of Panama City, Florida; and Jack and Lloyd both of Gravity; seventeen grandchildren; two great grandchildren, several other relatives and a host of friends. He was always honest and faithful, a kind and loving husband and father. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Services were held at the Gravity Christian Church on Sunday November 15 at 2 pm with Rev Perry Cozadd presiding. Casket bearers were C A Robinson; Charles Weil; Judson Beemer Lawrence Miers; Lyle Coe; and Lewis Walker. Pianist was Mrs Edward Johnson. Vocalist was Mrs Larry Martin. Burial was in the Washington Cemetery at Gravity. Relatives from out of town attending the funeral for Frank Ambrose included: Wade Ambrose of Panama City, Fla; Iola Miller and Roxann, Iowa City, Ia, Mr and Mrs Frank Souder and family, Rockwell City, Ia; Mr and Mrs Bruce Marolf, Marion, Iowa; Mr and Mrs Dennis Blum, Grand Junction, Iowa; Richard and Mark Ambrose, Polk City, Ia; Pvt James Ambrose, Ft Benning, Georgia; Annola Toler, Lenox, Ia; Carma Schofield, St Joseph, Mo; Mae Becherer, Lenox, Ia; Darrell Shields, Bedford, Ia; Leoma Beckett, Omaha, Neb; Mr and Mrs Merritt Triggs, Mt Ayr, Ia; Mr and Mrs Jesse Johnson, Clarinda, Ia, and Mr and Mrs Lewis Walker, Bedford, Ia. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 1, 1969 Gail Ambrose Funeral services for Gail Franklin Ambrose, 55, of Ogden, Ia., formerly of Gravity, were held April 23 at the Gravity Christian Church conducted by Rev. Ivo Randels. Mr. Ambrose died at the home of his parents in Gravity April 19, 1969. Both military and Masonic rituals were used at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Gail Franklin Ambrose, son of Frank and Lena Ambrose, was born in Gravity, Ia., May 20, 1913. In 1919 he moved with his parents to Dalton, Nebraska where he resided until June 1928 when they moved to Springfield, Mo., and later returning to Gravity in 1930. He was graduated from Gravity High School in 1932 and in April 1933 he became a member of the Christian Church of Gravity and was a member at the time of his death. In April 1941 he enlisted in the United States1 Army and served 52 months with the 133rd Infantry, 34th Division. He spent 42 months overseas in the European, African, Italian, and Middle Eastern Campaigns of World War II and was discharged in July 1945. He was the recipient of many awards including the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Clusters. On June 25, 1949 he was married in Yankton, South Dakota, to Mildred Churchill of Gravity and they made their home in Scranton, Ia., until recently when they moved to Ogden, Ia. Besides his wife he is survived by four children; a daughter, Gail Ann; three sons, James, Richard, Mark, all at home; his parents, two sisters; Geraldine Souders of Rockwell City, Ia., Iola Miller of Iowa City, Ia.; three brothers, Wade of Panama City, Florida, Jack and Lloyd of Gravity; several nieces and nephews, a number of other relatives and friends. He was a former member of the American Legion Post No. 578 of Gravity and at the time of his death was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 8767, and the Golden Gate Masonic Lodge No. 402 of Scranton, Iowa. He served his country faithfully and well. He was a loving and kind husband and father and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, September 6, 1989 JACK DUANE AMBROSE 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 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 Gravity. 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 in death by his parents, Frank and Lena Ambrose, his brother Gail Ambrose, his father-in-law, 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, July 18, 1985 Longtime Gravity resident last rites held Services for Lena Ambrose, 92, were held July 9 at the Gravity Christian Church, officiated by Rev. Carl Holdsworth and Rev. Ross Keyt. Mrs. Ambrose died July 6, 1985 at Rosary Hospital in Corning. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Ia. Lena Shields, daughter of Joseph and Minnie (Walker) Shields was born at Hopeville, Iowa on April 21, 1893. In 1902, she moved with her parents to Gravity, Iowa. As a young girl she was baptised in the Gravity Christian Church where she remained a member until death. She attended the Gravity Public Schools, graduating with the class of 1911. She taught in the Taylor County rural schools for a time. On January 15, 1912, she married Frank Ambrose of Gravity. They became the parents of four sons and two daughters. Later, three grandchildren made their home with them. In 1919, she left Gravity with her family and resided in Dalton, Nebraska where she and her husband operated a General Merchandise Store. They returned to Gravity in 1930. For many years she was the Gravity correspondent, writing for three area newspapers. She was a charter and longtime member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #578. When her health failed in 1977, she left Gravity to make her home with her daughter, Geraldine and family at Rockwell City, Iowa. The past 16 months she has resided at Colonial Manor nursing home in Corning, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Frank in 1970; a son, Gail; a brother, Lester Shields; two grandchildren; 1 daughter-in-law; and one son-in-law. Surviving are three sons, Wade of Panama City, Florida; Jack and, Lloyd of Gravity; two daughters, Iola Miller, Iowa City, Iowa; and Geraldine Souder, Rockwell City, Iowa; a brother, Kenneth Shields, , Mt. Pleasant, Texas; two daughters-in-law; 17 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; three step great-grandchildren; 1 great great-grandchild; other relatives and friends. She was an honest, faithful, kind, and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, November 15, 2000 WADE CHARLES AMBROSE Graveside services for Wade Ambrose, age 83, of Gravity were held Wednesday, November 8, 2000 at 2:00 p.m. at the Washington Cemetery with Pastor Ted DeHass officiating. Interment at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Memorials can be given in his name. Services were conducted by the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford. Wade Charles Ambrose was born September 20,1917 in Gravity, Iowa, and the son of Frank Ambrose and Lena Shields Ambrose. He attended school in Gravity, graduating in 1935, and then attended Tabor College for two years. On December 20, 1939, he was united in marriage to Maxine Clapper in Savanna[h], Missouri. Wade and Maxine made their home in Shenandoah where he worked as a Film Projectionist. He entered the United States Army, serving his county in World War II. After the war Wade worked as a Film Projectionist in Plattsmouth, Nebraska for a few years before the couple moved to Panama City, Florida, where they resided for forty years, returning to Gravity in 1987. Wade was a Professional Magician, having performed magic most of his life. He and Maxine had traveled and he had performed over much of the southern United States. He thoroughly enjoyed performing for kids and public speaking. He never had a speech pre-planned; he just talked about what came to mind at the time. After moving back to Gravity, Wade became involved in making woodcrafts, which he sold at area craft shows. He loved auctions and almost always purchase[d] something. Wade is survived by his wife, Maxine of Gravity; a brother, Lloyd Ambrose of Gravity, a sister, Iola Miller of Iowa City; along with many nieces and nephews. Preceding Wade in death are his parents, Frank and Lena; a daughter, Alice Ann, in 1944; two brothers, Gail Ambrose and Jack Ambrose; and a sister, Geraldine Souder. [BABCOCK, DORA ETTA PARKS QUALLS] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 6, 1958, p. 5 Mrs. Dora Babcock Rites At Gravity Last rites for Mrs. Dora E. Babcock of Gravity where held at the Methodist church there Thursday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Howard DeVore. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery. Dora E. [tta], daughter of M. B. and Mahala Parks, was born Oct. 2, 1866 in Taylor County near Bedford and died in Bedford, Jan. 28, 1958 at the age of 91 years, three months, 26 days. In 1886 she moved to Kansas where she married Alfred Qualls. To them four children were born. Mr. Qualls preceded her in death in 1898. In 1909 she was married to S. O. Babcock who preceded her in death in 1928. In 1931 she moved back to Iowa to be near her daughter, Mrs. Grace Babcock of Gravity by whom she is survived. There are also several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mrs. Babcock had been a member of the Methodist church 53 years and had worked in the Sunday school and church until falling in 1949, since which time she had been bedfast. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 7, 1967, p. 7 Mrs. Babcock, 74, Rites Wednesday Funeral services for Mrs. Hugh (Grace) Babcock, 74, of Gravity, were held November 23 at the Gravity Methodist Church with Rev. J. Milton Kinney officiating. Mrs. Babcock died at Clarinda Municipal Hospital November 19. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Grace Anna Babcock was born March 23, 1893 at Thayer, Kansas to Alfred and Dora Qualls. Her early school days were spent in Kansas and Iowa. On February 28, 1915 she was married to Hugh Edward Babcock. To this union four children were born: Agnes Grace Radke of Mason City, Iowa, William Edward Babcock of Denver, Colo., Dora Mae Lock, Sioux City, Iowa; and Robert Orville Babcock of Gravity. She also leaves six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. In her early life she joined the Methodist Church and has been a member of that church for 62 years. She was a member of Eastern Star of Gravity. Her most enjoyable times were spent caring for her husband and children. For several years she taught rural schools in Iowa and Kansas. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 9, 1971 Last Rites Held September 2 for Hugh Babcock Funeral services for Hugh Edward Babcock, 85, of Gravity, held September 2 at the Gravity United Methodist Church, were conducted by Carl Cummings. Mr. Babcock died August 30, 1971 at the Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Hugh Edward Babcock, son of William Henry and Frances Harris Babcock, was born near Thayer, Kansas, August 27, 1886. He grew to adulthood in the community where he was born and lived in that area until he moved to Iowa. He was united in marriage to Grace Qualls in Thayer, Kansas, at the home of the bride's parents, in February 1915 and to them four children were born to bless their home and to share their love. The family moved to a farm near Shambaugh, Iowa, in 1924 and to Taylor County on the farm west of Gravity, in 1933 where he had continued to reside until ill health caused him to spend the last few months of his life in a rest home in Bedford prior to his illness in the hospital. His wife, Grace, died in November 1967, after they had been privileged to spent 52 years of married life together. He was also preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and three sisters; he was the last of his family of eight children. Left to cherish memories of his good life, are his children: Agnes Radke and her husband, Leland, of Mason City, Iowa; William Edward Babcock and his wife, Grace, of Denver, Colo.; Dora Mae Lock and her husband, Oliver, of Sioux City, Ia.; Robert Babcock and his wife, Marie, of Gravity; six grandchildren; seven great grand children; other relatives and many friends. He was a member of the Methodist Church in Gravity and Sunlight Lodge No. 459 A.F.&A.M. of Gravity. He was a kind and considerate husband, father, brother and friend, and he will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 29, 1954, [p. 1] Twins, a daughter [Galene] and a son [Galen] were born to Mr. and Mrs. Jack Blood of Sharpsburg, April 23. The little girl died Saturday morning. [BLOOD, GALENE O.] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 6, 1954, p. 6 Gaileen, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Blood, died at the Rosary hospital at Corning Saturday morning. Graveside services were held at Gravity Sunday afternoon. Missouri Council of the Blind Chronicle, March, 2009 Galen O. Blood, age 54 of Sedalia, died Friday, December 26th, 2008 at Bothwell Regional Health Center. He was born April 23rd 1954 in Corning, Iowa, the son of Jack O. and Roxanna Ora Armstrong Blood. He attended the Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School in Vinton, Iowa. He was a worker in various sheltered workshops in Iowa, before moving to Kansas City, Missouri in 1995. He moved to Sedalia, Missouri in 2001, and on June 25th, 2002 he was married to Trudy Gail Cotter in Sedalia, Missouri, who survives of the home. He was a big Saint Louis Cardinals fan since he was 3 years old, and loved listening to the games on the radio. He enjoyed life, and always gave people a big smile. He is also survived by his father, Jack O. Blood of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas; 1 sister, Mari Love, of Des Moines, Iowa, and 2 brothers, Chuck O. Blood of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, and Mel O. Blood of Phoenix, Arizona. He was predeceased by his mother, Roxanna Blood. The family had a memorial gathering in the conference room at the Comfort Inn in Sedalia, Missouri at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30th, 2008. The family suggests memorials to the Blind of Central Missouri in care of McLaughlin funeral chapel. Condolences may be offered online at http://www.mclaughlinchapel.com. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, December 25, 1991, p. 3 VERA BROWN Services for Vera Brown were held Wednesday, Dec. 18, 1991 at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home with Carl Holdsworth and Mel Smith officiating. Burial was at the Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Vera A. Brown was born February 5, 1902, the daughter of Emanuel and Iniss (Carpenter) Perdew, and departed this life December 15, 1991 at the age of 89 years, 10 months and 10 days at the Mercy Hospital in Corning, Iowa. On March 18, 1926 she was united in marriage to W. [illiam] L. [uther] Brown. She lived all of her life in Taylor County. She was born southwest of Gravity and made her home later in Gravity, until she entered the Bedford Manor several months ago. She was engaged in commercial trucking. From 1967-1987 she had charge of the Washington Cemetery at Gravity. She kept perfect books and records of the cemetery. Also she and her husband did the mowing of the grass for some time. December 1923 she was baptized and became a member of the Christian church and continued faithful membership to the time of her death. She is preceded in death by her husband who died May 18, 1971; her parents; brothers Wilbur, Charles and a sister Neva; nephews Leonard Monte Perdew and Michael Perdew. Left to cherish her memory are Howard and Lola Perdew of Bedford, Robert and Joan Perdew of Gravity, Marie Perdew of Conway. She will be remembered for her striped overhauls and sunbonnet, which she felt more at home in. She will be greatly missed by the church and all who knew her. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 10, 1996 HAROLD DEAN CHURCHILL Funeral services were held for Harold Churchill on Thursday, January 4, 1996 at the Novinger Taylor Funeral Home with the interment at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Harold Dean Churchill was born at Gravity, Iowa on August 8, 1915 to Orie and Rachael (Levi) Churchill. He grew up on the farm northwest of Gravity attending the Gravity Methodist Church and the Rose Hill School west of Gravity. In 1941, Harold joined the army and served during World War II in the Philippines and was discharged after the war in 1945. On August 9, 1948 Harold married Marlene Delaney in the Christian Parsonage in Bedford. After their marriage they lived on a farm northeast of New Market, Iowa. In 1957, they moved to a farm north of Gravity, and moved again to a farm south of New Market in 1969. Harold and Marlene retired in 1979 and moved to Bedford, Iowa, where he lived until his death at home on January 1, 1996 at the age of 80. Harold enjoyed farming all his life and was a member of the Gravity United Methodist Church and a fifty year member of the American Legion Post #578 of Gravity Harold was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and two sisters. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Marlene of Bedford; two brothers - Orville of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Dewayne of Lake View, Iowa; three sisters -Eva Wycoff of Bedford, Margaret Kingrey of Corning, and Mildred Stewart of Des Moines, Iowa; a sister-in-law - Doris Churchill of Nebraska City, Nebraska; and several nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Harold was a kind and considerate husband, brother and friend to all who knew him and will be missed by all. [CHURCHILL, VERNITTA MARLENE DELANEY] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 14, 2009 MARLENE CHURCHILL Vernitta Marlene Churchill was born January 7, 1926 in Gus[s], Iowa to Jess and Eva Lavena (Walters) Delaney. Marlene lived all her life in Taylor County. She was united in marriage to Harold Dean Churchill on August 9, 1948 in Bedford, Iowa Marlene attended school in Gravity, Iowa. Harold and Marlene farmed most of their married life, retiring to Bedford, Iowa in 1979. Marlene passed away at her home in Bedford Friday, December 19, 2008. She was preceded in death by her husband Harold, her parents Eva Walters Moore and Jesse Delaney, and her sister Darlene Carmichael. She is survived by a half brother, Robert L. Delaney of Elkhart, Indiana; half sisters, Marie Simmons of Prescott, Iowa and Delores Gaule of Salem, Indiana; by many nieces and nephews and extended family and friends who will truly miss her. Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 23,2008 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Bedford with Pastor Ted DeHass officiating. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. A memorial fund is being established. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel served the family. Taylor County Herald, Thursday, November 17, 1932, p. 2 GRAVITY [James] Alva Davis passed away Wednesday of last week. Funeral services were held Saturday. Burial was near Van Wert. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 18, 1954, p. 5 W. H. Davis Dies In India William H. Davis, son of James Alva and Mary Estelle Davis, was born in Taylor County, Iowa, Jan. 5, 1907 and died in Punjab, India, March 6, 1954. He spent most of his childhood and boyhood in and near Gravity. Other members of his family living here at that time, besides his parents, were two brothers, Ralph and Carl Davis. He is a nephew of Mrs. Harley Wallace. Relatives from a distance here at the funeral were Mrs. Pearl Hollemback, an aunt of Casper, Wyo.; another aunt, Evadne Norris of Chicago; Carl Davis, wife and little daughter of Sterling, Colo.; Ralph Davis of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Also present from a distance were Mr. and Mrs. Amos Wolfe, friends from Sterling, Colo. Members present from the immediate family of Mrs. Davis are Mrs. P. H. Langan, mother, Earl Langan, brother and Louis Groverthal, brother-in-law of Platte Center, Nebr.; Mrs. Lucille Kluever of Columbus, Nebr., Mrs. A. J. Lousberg and husband of Fleming, Colo., Mrs. L. M. Carstensen and husband of Grand Island, Nebr. He was married to Evelyn Mark in April 1937. They have one daughter, July [Judy] Kay, 13 years of age. Mr. Davis and family had been in India about 18 months, where he was employed by the government of India in the construction of a dam. His wife and daughter were unable to return to the United States at this time. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 13, 1978 Milo Dugan, 87 Final Rites Held In Gravity Funeral services for Milo Thomas Dugan, 87, formerly of Gravity, held April 10 in the Gravity United Methodist Church, were conducted by Rev. Dwayne Madsen. Mr. Dugan died April 7, 1978 in Bedford Manor, Bedford, Ia. interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Milo Thomas Elisha Dugan, son of [Milo] Albert and Mary Dugan, was born at Fremont, Nebraska July 27, 1890. He received his education in Taylor County and was graduated from the Gravity High School in 1910. He had been a member of the Gravity Methodist Church since 1925. As a young man he went to Peoria, Illinois, and worked in a wire factory then came back and worked around Gravity. On April 20, 1916 he was united in marriage to Theo Maskers [Masker]. To this union two children were born, Maxine and Lowell. He lived in Taylor County and farmed northwest of Gravity as long as his health permitted. On June 6, 1977 he went to Bethesda Care Center at Clarinda, Iowa. On August 2, 1977 he became a resident at Bedford Manor. He was preceded in death by his wife, Theo August 14, 1963, his parents and sister, Mrs. Bessie Ackley. Left to cherish his memory are: one daughter Maxine (Mrs. Elbert Pershin) of Conway, Ia.; one son, Lowell Dugan, Gravity, a daughter-in-law, Dorothy La Vaughn Dugan, Gravity, a sister Maudie (Mrs. Orville McCandless), Hawaiian Gardens, California and a nephew Russell Ackley of Des Moines, Ia.; six grandchildren: Mildred (Mrs. Edward Johnson) Gravity, Clifford Pershin, Shannon City, Ia.; Judy (Mrs. Richard Blake) Bedford; Betty (Mrs. Jim Hughes), Connie (Mrs. Loren Tornholm) both of Gravity, and Gary Pershin of Cedar Rapids, Ia.; 14 great grandchildren; other relatives and friends. He was a kind and considerate husband, father and grandfather and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 29, 1963, p. 7 Mrs. Theo Dugan Taken in Death Funeral services for Mrs. Theo Dugan, held August 16 in the Gravity Methodist Church, were conducted by Rev. James Sheckler. Mrs. Dugan died August 14 at the Clarinda Municipal hospital, age 70 years. She had been an invalid for a considerable time. Interment was at Washington cemetery, Gravity, Ia. The following obituary was included in the services: Theo Leota Masker, daughter of Theodore and Mary Masker, was born in Taylor County, March 14, 1893. She was united in marriage to Milo T. [homas Elisha] Dugan April 20, 1916. To this union were born two children, a daughter, Maxine, and a son, Lowell. Mrs. Dugan was a long-time member of the Gravity Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by one brother, William Masker of Corning. She is survived by her husband, Milo Dugan; one brother, Jess Masker of Gravity; one daughter Mrs. Elbert Pershin of Bedford; one son, Lowell Dugan of Gravity; six grandchildren, two great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. [HICKS, SELDON CLAYTON, 1912-1998] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, March 4, 1998 Seldon Clayton Hicks Seldon Clayton Hicks, 85, died February 8, 1998 at his home in Hopkins, Missouri. A native of Gravity, Iowa he was born May 25, 1912 to Elroy and Minnie Webb Hicks and was a graduate of Gravity High School. Before retiring to Hopkins in 1990 Mr. Hicks was the owner of Hicks Orange Orchard in Oroville, California. He was an avid boater, golfer and woodworker. Surviving are daughter Kay Hicks Zunino of Reno, Nevada; a grandson, Gregory of Reno and two great granddaughters. In lieu of a funeral, family contributions were made to several Hopkins churches in Mr. Hicks' memory. Private burial was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. [HICKS, SELDON CLAYTON, 1912-1998] Maryville Daily Forum, Wednesday, March 4, 1998 Seldon Hicks Seldon Clayton Hicks, 85, died Sunday, Feb. 8,1998, at his home in Hopkins. Born May 25, 1912, in Gravity, Iowa, to Elroy and Minnie Webb Hicks, he was the owner of Hicks Orange Orchard in Oroville, Calif., before retiring. Mr. Hicks was a graduate of Gravity, Iowa, High School. Survivors include a daughter, Kay Hicks Zunino of Reno, Neb.; a grandson; and two great-granddaughters. In lieu of a funeral, family contributions were made to several Hopkins churches in Mr. Hicks' memory. A private family burial was held at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. [HOPKINS, VESTA ETHELDA HICKS LAWRENCE] Clarinda Herald Journal, Monday, November 23, 1964, [p. 1] Mrs. Hopkins burial will be at Gravity Mrs E G (Vesta) Hopkins, 55, died at the Clarinda Municipal hospital at 6:30 pm Saturday, after having been hospitalized for a month. She was a native of Kansas, having been born at Logan. She lived at Des Moines before she and her husband moved to Clarinda in February to establish their road building equipment company, known as the Hopkins Co located at 7th and Main Sts. She is a member of the Methodist Church. She is survived by her husband, E G Hopkins, Clarinda; her mother, Mrs Roy (Minnie Webb) Hicks, Tustin, Calif; five children, Mrs W L (Yvonne) Logan, Sparks, Nevada, Jacquelyn Lawrence, Bell, Calif, Mrs Dale (Clara Mae) Thornton, Griswold, Mrs Bill (Patricia) Higgins, Canon City, Colo, and Larry Edward Hopkins, Ft Jackson, S C. One sister is Mrs S D (Wilma Lee) Lister, Barnard, Mo, and brother, Seldon C [layton] Hicks, Tustin, Calif. Funeral services will be conducted from the Walker Funeral Home at 2 p m Wednesday, with Rev John L Beebout of the First Methodist Church of Clarinda in charge and organist Miss Aletha Hutchings. Burial will be in the Gravity cemetery. The family has requested that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society. [HOPKINS, VESTA ETHELDA HICKS LAWRENCE] Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, December 3, 1964, p. 13 Mrs E G (Vesta Hicks) Hopkins, whose funeral was in Clarinda Wednesday, formerly attended Barton School. Relatives and former schoolmates attended the funeral and also the burial service at Gravity. [MASKER, JESSIE FLORENCE KONECNE] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 26, 1971 Jessie Masker Rites Aug. 19 Funeral services for Mrs. Jesse L. (Jessie Florence) Masker, 83, of Gravity, held August 19 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here, were conducted by Carl Cummings. Mrs. Masker died August 16, 1971 at Murphy Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, where she had been a patient since July 7. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Jessie Florence Konecne, daughter of Joseph and Carrie Hollis Konecne, was born June 19, 1888 in Holt Township, Taylor County Iowa. She grew to adulthood in the area where she was born and moved with her parents to Colorado where she was united in marriage in September of 1967 [1907] to Jesse L. [ee] Masker at Holyoke, Colorado. They returned to Taylor County Iowa where they were engaged in farming in the Gravity community until they moved to Gravity in 1944 where she has since continued to reside. Born to bless this home were two children, Bernese Masker Chaffin of Glenwood, Iowa, and Max L. [ee] Masker of Arvada, Colorado. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and one sister, Audra Cooper. Left to cherish memories of her good life, are the two children Bernese and Max and his wife Irene; three grand-children, Marilyn Fleming, Cathleen McGill, and Carolyn Smith; five great grandchildren; four brothers, Roy of Jefferson, Iowa, Earl of Cheyenne Wells, Colo., Ray of Corning, and Clyde of Omaha, Nebr., other relatives and many friends. She was a member of the Christian Church, and Royal Neighbors of America. Her love for her family and home and friends will long be remembered by all those who knew and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, April 28, 1993 MAX L. MASKER Max L. [ee] Masker, 1815 Chandler Ct. S.W., Decatur Ala. 35603 died at Moulton Health Care Friday, April 16 following a short illness. He was 76. Max was born in Gravity, Iowa August 19, 1916, the son of Jesse and Jessie Konecne Masker. Max was preceded in death by his parents. Max was a member of the Christian Church. Max married Irene Safley, daughter of Alfred and Hazel Hensley Safley July 5, 1941 in Macon, Mo. They celebrated their 50th anniversary here two years ago. Max served in military service in World War II in Army Air Corps from September 28, 1942 to January 6, 1946. They moved to Bedford, Iowa a short time after returning from military service. Max served on the Bedford volunteer fire department and was still a member. Max was a member of the American Legion. He moved from Bedford to Denver, Colo, in 1956 where he and his wife and daughter lived until retirement from Conoco Oil Company after 30 years of employment with Conoco. After retirement, they moved to Decatur, Ala. Survivors include his wife Irene of Decatur, Ala., one daughter, Carolyn Smith and son-in-law Frank of Hillsboro, Ala.; three grandchildren, Barbara Brooks, Ridgecrest, Calif., Robert Smith, Denver, Colo., Thomas Smith, Decatur, Ala.; one sister, Bernece [Bernice] Chaffin, Glenwood, Iowa; nieces and nephews and host of friends and neighbors. Graveside services were held April 21, 1993 at 10:30 a.m. at the Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa with Rev. Marcia Smith Wood officiating. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 24, 1960, p. 6 Miss Ora Masker Dies Miss Ora Masker, who was spending the winter months at the home of her niece in Dakota, died at the hospital there Saturday. Funeral services and burial will be at the Methodist church in Gravity, Thursday, at 2 p. m. [MASKER, ORRA LEOTA] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 31, 1960 Miss Orra Masker Buried At Gravity Miss Orra Leota Masker, daughter of Benjamin W. [right] and Mary Cole Masker, was born December 6, 1879 in Glidden, Iowa, and passed away at Bennett Clarkson hospital in Rapid City, South Dakota on Saturday, March 19, 1960. Miss Masker graduated from high school at Glidden, Iowa. She later moved to Grand Junction, Iowa, and in 1921 took up her residence on a farm near Gravity. In 1936 she moved into Gravity, where she resided until the death of her brother, Will Masker, last year.
Clarinda Herald Journal, Monday, September 30, 1974, p. 7 Glade Moore Gravity resident Funeral services for Glade Moore, 74, were being held this Monday, the funeral at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford and burial in Gravity cemetery. He died Friday at the Clarinda Municipal Hospital. He is survived by his wife, the former Eva Lavina Walters. They have been longtime residents of the Gravity area, and recently took an apartment at Clarhaven in Clarinda. The Rev Ted Conway of the Clarinda Church of the Nazarene was to officiate at the service, Miss Judy Stogdill singing and Pat Larson at the organ. Casket bearers were to be Lowell Jennings, Harris Griggs, Wilbur Kite, Hildred Diggs, Lawrence Ingram and Carroll Ingram. [MOORE, GLADE IVAN] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 3, 1974, p. 4 Glade Moore, 74, Dies In Clarinda Funeral services for Glade Ivan Moore, 74, of Clarinda, were held September 30 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, conducted by Rev. Ted Conway. Mr. Moore died September 27, 1974 at the Municipal Hospital in Clarinda. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 12, 1948, p. 2 Obituary – Robert Moore Robert Dean Moore, son of Chauncy and Verla Moore, was born August 24, 1923, at Gravity, Iowa and died May 8, 1944, at the age of 20 years, 8 months and 14 days. He graduated from the Gravity High School in 1940. He lived and worked on the farm with his parents and later clerked in the Supply Store in Bedford, where he made many friends by his pleasant smile and courteous manner. When the call came to serve his country, he responded, and on March 26, 1943, entered the service. He was given basic training at Camp Wolters, Texas, embarking for overseas, August 19, landed in North Africa, and sent on to Italy, where he was attached to the Allied Command at Naples. Later he was attached to the 157th Infantry, 45th Division, Company H. He was killed in action on the Anzio Beachhead in Italy May 8, 1944. He leaves to mourn his loss, his parents, one brother Ronald of Gravity and sister Kathryn of the home; his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. T. [homas] M. [organ] Utter and Ira Moore of Gravity. He was of sterling character and numbered his friends by his acquaintances. He paid the highest price that can be paid by anyone for our freedom. The funeral services were held from the Christian Church in Gravity Sunday afternoon, August 8, 1948, conducted by Rev. Ben W. Sinderson of Falls City, Nebraska. Burial was in Washington cemetery at Gravity [MOORE, ROBERT DEAN] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 15, 1948, [p. 1] Body of Pvt. Moore Arrives in States The body of the late Pvt. Robert Moore, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. V. Moore of Gravity, arrived in the states on July 6, from Italy, according to word received by the parents. The body will be forwarded to the Shum Funeral Home in Bedford from Kansas City at a later date and the last rites and burial will be at Gravity. [MOORE, ROBERT DEAN] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 5, 1948, [p. 1] Body of Veteran Arrives In Bedford Funeral services for Pvt. Robert D. Moore, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. [hauncy] V.[ane] Moore of Gravity, will be held at the Christian Church in Gravity at 4 o'clock Sunday afternoon, August 8. Rev. Ben W. Sinderson of Falls City Nebraska, a former Bedford and Gravity minister, will officiate. The Gravity Post of the American Legion will be in charge. Robert lost his life in Italy during the late war. His body arrived Thursday evening from Kansas City, after having been brought to the states early in July. He is a former resident of Bedford, having been employed at the Bedford Supply Store before entering the service. [NORRIS, SAMUEL FRANKLIN "FRANK"] Bedford Free Press, Thursday, October 6, 1910, p. 5 Frank Norris was born at Newberg, Illinois, June 5, 1853, and died at Ladoga, Iowa September 23, 1910. He was married March 15, 1883, to Nellie Robinson. They resided in Knox County for thirteen years, when they removed to Taylor County, Iowa. They lived near Lenox for twelve years, when they removed to VanWert, where they lived for one year. They moved to Ladoga March 1, 1909. In August he went to Maryville to seek medical aid. He went to the St. Francis Hospital, where on August 23, an exploratory examination was made, and it was found that he was a victim of cancer. He leaves a wife and seven children, five daughters and two sons. He also leaves three sisters and two brothers. During his sickness he was very patient. He was a kind and loving husband and father. He leaves to his loved ones the memory of a perfectly honest and upright man. [NORRIS, JOHN WILLIAM] [NORRIS, BERENICE GRACE HICKEY COYLE] [COYLE, MARVIN LYNN] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 6, 1985 Services in Gravity May 26 Graveside services were conducted May 26, 1985, 4 p.m. in the Washington Cemetery of Gravity by Rev. Carl Holdsworth. Military honors were conducted by the Gravity American Legion. Interment of the cremated remains was at Washington Cemetery. John William Norris was born April 6, 1889 in Illinois, the son of Frank Norris and Nellie Robinson. He departed this life Oct. 24, 1977 in San Diego, Calif. at the age of 88 years, 6 months and 18 days. Berenice Grace Norris was born Jan. 1, 1905 in Lane county, Cottage Grove, Oregon, the daughter of Stanley Hickey and Nellie E. Williams. She departed this life March 11, 1985 at Cottage Grove Oregon at the age of 80 years, 3 months, 10 days. Marvin Lynn Coyle was born Dec. 2, 1924, the son of Marvin Coyle Sr. and Berenice Grace Hickey. He spent 20 years in service. He died Dec. 11, 1984 at Cottage Grove, Oregon at the age of 60 years, 9 days. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 28, 1977 Estle Fay Parks, 82 Last Rites Held July 23 Funeral services for Estle Fay Parks, 82, of Gravity, held July 23 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford, were conducted by Mr. and Mrs. Ross Keyt. Mr. Parks died July 20, 1977 in Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Moore-Rutledge American Legion Post No. 578 conducted military honors at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Estle Fay Parks, son of Albert and Etta Parks, was born at Gravity, Iowa August 6, 1894. He lived and grew to maturity in Gravity, where he attended the public schools. On February 28, 1928 he was united in marriage to Vesta Grace Pace at Maryville, Missouri. They lived together at Gravity. To this union two children were born: Evelyn, and Lowell. He had one son Kenneth by a former marriage. He was engaged in farming. He was preceded in death by his son, Lowell, his parents, one sister, four brothers, and twin great granddaughters. Left to cherish his memory are his wife Vesta; their daughter, Evelyn Watkins; five grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. He was a member of the American Legion; and it is believed that he became a true believer and follower of Christ. He was a kind and considerate husband, father, and grandpa, and will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, October 28, 1998 Howard Dean Perdew Howard Dean Perdew, son of Nettie Brown Perdew and Charles Perdew, was born on a farm north of Gravity, Iowa on January 16, 1916 and departed this life on October 23, 1998 at Bedford Nursing Home in Bedford, Iowa at the age of 82 years. Howard grew to maturity in Gravity where he attended the public school and the Christian Church. In high school Howard was a member of the Glee Club. He graduated from High School in 1935 with a scholarship in music, but hard times kept him from fulfilling his dreams. He was very proud of his life around Gravity, his hometown. On June 23, 1937 he was united in marriage to Lola Huss at Bedford and they lived in this vicinity where they farmed. To this union one child was born on April 3, 1938, Monte Carol who died in July 1951. When they were first married Howard received one dollar a day in wages. Howard and Lola spent their life of 61 years together in rural acres of Taylor County. They retired from farming in 1978 when he and Lola moved to Bedford. Howard was a farmer, a devoted farmer dedicated to the land and his livestock. He loved his farm animals and cared for them with a special touch. In his farming Howard practiced conservation. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Monte; brother, Leonard and nephew, Mike Perdew. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Lola; brother, Robert and wife Joanne; sister in law Marie Perdew; nephews and nieces and other relatives and many friends. Howard was a member of the Christian Church in Gravity and later became a member of the Baptist Church in Bedford. He entered the Nursing Home in May of 1994. Howard loved music and singing. He even sang in the barn to the cows. His mother said: "I can hear Howard singing when milking the cows." And Howard raised roses and enjoyed caring for them. He was a kind and considerate father and husband and will be, missed by his friends and loved ones. Howard was a good man for Christ was in his heart. Funeral services were held Monday, October 26, 1998, 2:00 p.m. at the Novinger Taylor Funeral Home of Bedford with interment at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Rev. Ted DeHass was the minister. Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, July 26, 1951, [p. 1] Bedford Farm Boy Strangled By Rope While Playing Cowboy Monte Perdew, 13-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Perdew, accidentally strangled himself while playing cowboy at the Perdew farm home 2 1/2 miles southwest of Bedford Sunday night. Mrs Perdew said the boy, dressed in a cowboy outfit complete with rope, had been playing while helping her with the evening chores. She said that she missed him for about 15 minutes and when she went to look for him found his body, tangled in the rope, handing from a tree. Mr Perdew was helping a neighbor put up hay at the time. [PERDEW, MONTE CAROL] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 26, 1951, [p. 1] Farm Boy, 13, Strangled By Rope While Playing Monte Carol Perdew, 13, son of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Perdew, accidentally strangled himself Sunday evening while at his farm home two miles southwest of Bedford. According to his parents, the boy, wearing a cowboy holster and toy gun, had been playing with a rope around a short limb of a tree in the farmyard while helping his mother with the evening chores. Mrs. Perdew said she missed him for about 15 minutes, and when she went to look for him she found his body, tangled in the rope, hanging from a tree. His feet were only a few inches from the ground. Monte's father was helping a neighbor put up hay at the time of the accident. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at the Gravity Christian church, with burial in the Gravity cemetery. Rev. F. H. Cowles of the Bedford Baptist church officiated. Born in Gravity April 3, 1938, Monte moved near Bedford five years ago with his parents. He attended Daugherty school where he completed seventh grade this spring. He is survived by his parents; his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Perdew and Mrs. Jane Huss of Gravity; a great grandfather, Harper Brown of Gravity; four uncles, Calvin Huss of Lyons, Col., Charles Huss and Robert Perdew of Gravity, Leonard Perdew of Lenox; two aunts, Vada McColm of Bedford and Mildred Moore of Gravity. He is also survived by nine cousins, Lewis, Joreen and Larry McColm of Bedford; Joyce Huss of Lyons, Col., Otis, Olin, Terry Dennis and Zonette Perdew of Lenox. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Lewis Huss of Gravity. Monte attended Sunday school at the Gravity Christian church and at the Bedford Baptist church.
Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, March 1, 1995 LETHA POSTEN Letha Posten was born September 14, 1903 near Gravity, Iowa and died February 14,1995 at Corning, Iowa. Funeral services were held February 18, 1995 at Novinger-Taylor Funeral Home in Bedford with Rev. Tracey Chamberlin officiating. Burial was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Daughter of Elmer and Cora Hamblin Dutton, she spent her entire life in Taylor County. She was married to Forrest Posten on August 28, 1923, and to them was born one son, Dean. She belonged to the Oak Hill Christian Church and was active in the Aid Society. Letha was called Granny. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Merle, and her husband, Forrest. She is survived by son Dean and Edna Posten of Gravity; one granddaughter, Connie Lee Keyt and husband Leroy of Hartley, Iowa; great grandchildren David and wife Barb Keyt of Roy, Utah; Chris and wife Susan Keyt of Van Meter, Iowa; Kathy and husband Jim O'Brien of Des Moines, Iowa; Dean and wife Beth Keyt of Des Moines, Iowa; great great grandchildren, Theresa Linsley, Andrew Keyt, Alison, Megan and Abby Keyt, Emely and Zachary Keyt; one sister, Ruth Leighton of Cook, Wash.; other nieces, nephews and friends. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, November 12, 1964, p. 6 Darrell Reed Dies In Arizona Nov. 7 Bedford Times-Press correspondent in Gravity, Mrs. Frances Carlson, reports the death of Darrell Reed, former Gravity resident, last Saturday at Veterans Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 16, 1967, p. 7 Gravity—Rev. Milton Kinney conducted graveside services for Mrs. Fairy [Fairie] Reed Powers at the Gravity cemetery Sunday afternoon. Mrs. Reed was a long time resident of Gravity but had spent the last several years in Phoenix, Ariz. Out of town relatives and friends who attended were Larry Reed, Phoenix, Ariz.; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Scott and Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Williams, Knoxville; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Livingston and Mr. and Mrs. Bill Brookman, Clarinda, and Mr. and Mrs. Dan Leonard and family, Mr. and Mrs. Merle Allen, Corning. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 11, 1949, [p. 1] Scofield Infant Still Born Graveside services for Elizabeth Anna, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Scofield of Nodaway, were conducted at the Gravity cemetery, Tuesday, July 26 by Rev. Ben W. Sinderson of Bedford. The child was still-born. [SCOFIELD, ELSIE AMELIS LORENZEN] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, January 10, 1990, p. 6 ELSIE SCOFIELD Funeral services for Elsie Amelis Lorenzen Scofield were held January 5, 1990 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home with Rev. Carl Holdsworth officiating. Burial was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. Elsie Amelis Lorenzen Scofield, daughter of Ondreas Bunkard Lorenzen and Anna Willimena Lackman Lorenzen was born at Boyer, Iowa November 8, 1924 and departed this life January 2, 1990 at her home in Gravity, Iowa at the age of 65 years, one month, 25 days. As a child she lived in Boyer, Iowa and grew to maturity there. She attended the public school and the Stockholm Township Lutheran Church. On May 15, 1946 she was united in marriage to George Edward Scofield at Trinity Lutheran Church of Manilla, Iowa and they lived their first two years in Guss, Iowa, then moved to Gravity, Iowa where they resided until her death. To this union three children were born, Gaylen George Scofield, Alton Lee Scofield and Elizabeth Ann who was stillborn. She was employed as a housekeeper. She was preceded in death by her parents; and four brothers Willie Lorenzen, Leroy Lorenzen, Raymond Lorenzen and Arthur Lackman and her daughter Elizabeth Ann. Left to cherish her memory are her husband George; sons, Gaylen George Scofield and wife Marsha and Alton Lee Scofield; three grandchildren, Aaron, Heather and Bret; and brothers, Andreas Lorenzen and wife Elna of Hartford, Conn., Louie Lorenzen of Manilla, Iowa, Elmer Lorenzen and wife Susie of Manilla, Iowa, Marvin Lorenzen and wife LaRoice of Manilla, Iowa; sisters, Marie Kathenbeutel and husband Kenneth of Hampton, Iowa and Tillie Tebben of Lake View, Iowa; one sister-in-law, Genevieve Lorenzen of Storm Lake, Iowa; many nieces and nephews. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church of Manilla, Iowa; the Wild Rose Club; American Legion Auxiliary and President of the Fireman's Auxiliary. She was a kind and considerate wife, mother, grandmother, and friend and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 24, 1949, [p. 1] Glen Scofield Dies At Gravity Glen[n] Scofield, 55, died at his home in Gravity early Wednesday morning after having been in failing health for several months. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, two sons and two grandchildren. The funeral services will be held at the Christian church in Gravity at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Ben W. Sinderson of Bedford. Burial will be in the Gravity cemetery. [SCOFIELD, GLENN DOUGLAS] Gravity Independent, Thursday, March 31, 1949, [p. 1] Glenn Douglas Scofield, Obituary Glenn Douglas Scofield, the only son of Frank H. Scofield and Rose Pfeiffer Scofield, was born January 15, 1894, at Clearmont, Mo. He came to Iowa at the age of 7. His father preceded his son in death when he was only 2 years old and his mother when he was 17 years old. He passed away at his home in Gravity on March 23, 1949, at the age of 55 years, 2 months and 8 days. On Oct. 4, 1916, he was married to Vinnie E. [lizabeth] Johnson of Gravity, Iowa. To this union was born 4 children: Rose, George, Ellis and Myrtle. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife and children Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Hardisty, Mr. and Mrs. George Scofield, Ellis H. Scofield and Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Squier; 2 grandchildren, Jean Kay Hardisty and Frederick Allen Squier; his aunt, uncle, Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Samp of Riverside, Calif., Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Evans of Maryville, Mo.; cousins, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Crom of Pierce, Colo., Mr. and Mrs. F. F. Fout, Las Alanas, New Mexico, Mr. and Mrs. Donald Davenport, Hinsdale, Ill., Mr. and Mrs. Evan J. Evans, Tarkio, Mo., Mr. and Mrs. Carl Gardner, Riverside, Calif., Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Bean, Pomona, Calif.; and a host of other relatives and friends. The funeral services were held at the Christian church at two o'clock, Friday, March 25, conducted by Rev. Ben W. Sinderson. Pianist was Grace Gray and Gordon Hill was the singer. The flower girl and boy were his niece and nephew, Betsy Ann and Brice Glenn Johnson. Pallbearers were his nephews, Ray, Marvin, Wayne, Edward and Russell Johnson and Donald Holder. He was laid to rest in the Gravity cemetery. [SCOFIELD, VINNIE ELIZABETH JOHNSON] Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 14, 1970, p. 7 Mrs. Scofield Rites May 8 Funeral services for Vinnie Elizabeth Scofield, 72, of Gravity were held at the Gravity Christian Church May 8 conducted by Rev. Ivo G. Randels. Mrs. Scofield died at a nursing home in Clarinda May 5. Interment was in Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Vinnie Elizabeth Johnson Scofield, daughter of Charles and Elizabeth Johnson, was born near Guss, Iowa, Tuesday, August 17, 1897. On October 4, 1916 she was united in marriage to Glenn Douglas Scofield at Guss. To this union four children were born. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, two sisters, Edna and Grace, two brothers, Walton and LeRoy, and one granddaughter, Elizabeth Anna Scofield. She is survived by her two daughters and husbands and two sons and wives. They are Rose Hardisty of Gravity, Myrtle Squier of Tarkio; George Scofield of Gravity, and Ellis Scofield of Clarinda; three brothers, Lester, Raymond, and Jesse all of Clarinda; eight grandchildren: Jean Olson and Joan Hardisty, Frederick and Virginia Squier, Gaylan Douglas and Michael Scofield; and one great granddaughter, Teresa Olson; nieces, nephews and a host of friends. She spent her married life near Gravity. [SPENCER, GALEN WOLVERTON "SWEDE"] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, December 24, 1997 Galen Wolverton Spencer Services were held for Galen Wolverton (Swede) Spencer at the Novinger Taylor Funeral Home on Saturday, December 20, 1997 with Rev. Paul Evans officiating. Interment was at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Galen Wolverton Spencer, the son of Addison Edward and Rebecca (Wolverton) Spencer, was born on the family farm in Ross Township of Taylor County, Iowa on November 25, 1911. He grew up in Ross Township attending the one room schoolhouse, Helm School. In 1923, when Galen was 12 years old, the family rented out the farm for a year. His father built a "house" onto a Model T Ford and they all went to California for a year. While there Galen and some of the other family members were cast as extras in the movie ÒLincoln". In 1931, Galen and two other friends lived in Idaho where he worked in the potato fields. From that point on Galen found enjoyment in traveling all his life. On April 30, 1937 he married Dorothy Jane McNees in Independence, Missouri. After the wedding they lived and farmed south of Bedford. To this union two children were born, Ronald and Judy. Farming was the main focus of Galen's life. He had great pride in raising the cattle, fattening them out and selling them in St. Joe, Missouri. They were then taken to the eastern United States because they would always be such high quality. Galen and Dorothy retired from farming in 1973 although they continued to live on the farm and maintained their love of the land by gardening and other outside activities. In 1990 Galen and Dorothy moved to Bedford, Iowa where they lived until Dorothy's death in 1993. After suffering a stroke in 1994 Galen moved to live with his son in Missouri. In 1996 he moved to the Mariner Health Center in Olathe, Kansas. Galen died on December 18, 1997 at the Olathe Medical Center in Olathe, Kansas almost a month after his 86th birthday. Galen was a long time member of the Bedford United Methodist Church. Galen was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy; his parents, Addison (Ed) and Rebecca; four brothers, Ernest, Glen, Wade and Edward Jr.; and one sister, Marie. He is survived by his son, Ronald and Jane Spencer of Belton, Missouri; one daughter, Judy Morehouse of O'Fallon, Missouri; four granddaughters, Rebecca and Justin Largent of Columbia, Missouri; Jennifer Spencer of Denver, Colorado; Maria Morehouse and Rachel Morehouse both of O'Fallon, Missouri; two grandsons, Andy Morehouse of O'Fallon, Missouri and Joel Spencer of Columbia, Missouri; one brother, Albert and Idle Spencer of Bedford, Iowa; and one sister, Julia and Harold Foster of Clarinda, Iowa. Cards can be directed to Ronald Spencer at 5004 E. 205th St., Belton, MO 64012 or to Judy Morehouse 2845 Dyer Rd., O'Fallon, Missouri 63366. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, August 24, 1961, p. 4 Earl E. Taylor Rites At Gravity Last rites for Earl E. Taylor of Gravity were held at the Christian church in Gravity Thursday afternoon, August 17. Rev. E. M. McGehee of the Bedford Presbyterian Church officiated. Burial in Washington cemetery at Gravity. Earl E. Taylor, youngest son of Henry and Sarah Taylor, was born at Secor, Illinois, February 26, 1889 and departed this life at Corning, Iowa, August 15, 1961 at the age of 72 years, five months, 20 days. He grew to manhood in the Brooks, Iowa, community and was in business there several years. On December 12, 1913 he was united in marriage to Miss Virginia Morris of Nodaway. To this union two sons were born: Robert M. [orris] of Bedford and Max T. [heodore] of Gravity. Mrs. Taylor passed away in 1954. He is survived by two sons, Robert M. Taylor of Bedford, and Max T. Taylor of Gravity; a brother, Frank Taylor of Tennant, Iowa; two sisters, Mrs. Grace Vickery and Mrs. Nell Metcalf of Corning; and the Robert M. Taylor family of Bedford. Early in life he was a salesman for Cudahy, later a general store keeper and postmaster at Brooks, and later farmed. With agriculture as a life-long interest he served as a committeeman, then secretary of the Agriculture Adjustment Act Organization of Taylor County. From 1950 to 1953 he was a member of the Board of Supervisors of Taylor County. In recent years he lived in Gravity, where he operated an insurance agency until failing health forced him to close the office. A devoted husband, understanding father and a helpful and trusting neighbor, Earl Taylor was a dedicated to the finest ideals of rural community life. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 5, 1963, p. 5 Ted Taylor Rites Nov. 29 Funeral services for Max Theodore Taylor, held November 29 at Gravity Christian Church were conducted by Rev. James Sheckler. Mr. Taylor died November 26, 1963 in the Clarinda Hospital at the age of 37 years, one month and six days. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Ia. The following obituary was included in the services: Max Theodore Taylor, second son of Earl and Virginia Taylor, was born on a farm northeast of Gravity, Iowa, October 19, 1926. He attended public schools at Gravity and Bedford. Immediately upon graduation from high school Ted enlisted in the United States Army November 26, 1945. Ted's Military Service qualified him for the Victory Medal in the Army of Occupation of Japan and he received his Honorable Discharge December 17, 1946. Ted was preceded in death by his parents. Ted is survived by one daughter, Hope, of Hamburg, Ia.; one brother, Robert, and wife, Madeline, two nieces, Linda and Cathy, all of Bedford, and many friends. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 19, 1954, p. 4 Obituary – Mrs. E. E. Taylor Virginia Morris, eldest daughter of Franklin Lee and Vanie Pumroy Morris, was born at Nodaway, Iowa, May 19, 1891 and died suddenly at her home in Gravity, Feb. 10, 1954 at the age of 62 years, eight months, 21 days. She was educated in the public schools of Nodaway and Corning and later graduated from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. She taught school at Brooks a number of years and was principal of the high school two years. She was married to Earl E. Taylor Dec. 9, 1913 at the Christian parsonage in Council Bluffs. To them were born two sons, Robert Morris and Max Theodore. Mrs. Taylor had a severe heart attack a year ago and had been in poor health since. At an early age she joined the Christian church and was active in church and community affairs. She was a member of the Rebekah Lodge at Gravity. She is survived by her husband, Earl E. Taylor; the two sons, Robert Morris and Max Theodore; two granddaughters, Linda and Catherine Taylor; one sister, Mina Morris of St. Joseph, Mich. Funeral services were held at the Gravity Christian church, Sunday, Feb. 14, Rev. Benj. R. Hollis officiating. Burial in Gravity cemetery. [THOMSON, GLADYS ELLEN POSTEN MCCLELLAND] Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, August 23, 1995 GLADYS ELLEN POSTEN THOMSON Gladys Ellen Posten Thomson was born September 23, 1902 at Gravity, Iowa and passed away at the Smithview Manor Nursing Home on August 1, 1995 where she has been a patient for four years. She was the daughter of David and Nettie Dunkin Posten. In the year of 1927 she moved with her parents to Excelsior Springs, Missouri. She was employed at McLeary's Variety Store for several years. She was married to Robert McCellend [McClelland] on November 27, 1931 and divorced October 18, 1933. On April 20th, 1937 she was united in marriage to Joseph Thomson. They lived at Lawson, Mo. where they opened Thomson Variety Store in November 1947. In 1989 Gladys sold the store due to ill health. Gladys was a member of the Christian Presbyterian Church, which she attended faithfully until her health prevented her from attending. She was preceded in death by her husband Joe, her parents, and brother, Forrest Posten. She is survived by her nephew Dean and wife Edna Posten of Gravity, Iowa; great niece Connie Keyt and husband Leroy of Hartley, Iowa; several great, great nieces and nephews, who called her "Aunt Pud"; her special friend Emma Lee Drew of Lawson, Missouri; her family and many friends. Services were held at Jarmans' Funeral Home, Lawson, Missouri with Barry Robinson officiating. Burial was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa with Tracey Chamberlain officiating. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 16, 1965, p. 6 Harley Wallace Services Sept. 8 Funeral services for Emery Harley Wallace of Gravity, lifetime Taylor County resident, were held Sept. 8 at the west Shum-Novinger Funeral Home with Rev. Ross Keyt officiating. Mr. Wallace died at his home near Gravity after a long illness on Sept. 6, 1965, at the age of 79 years, eight months and four days. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Emery Harley Wallace, son of James B. and Susan Wallace, was born Feb. 2, 1886, near Conway, Iowa. He attended rural schools in Taylor County and later attended College View College in Lincoln, Nebr. In Jan. 1911 he married Leona Belle Norris. To this union one son, Emery was born. Harley was born and lived in Taylor County all his life. The family moved to the Ladoga neighborhood in 1917. On Jan. 25, 1961 Harley and Leona celebrated their fiftieth Wedding Anniversary at the Christian Church in Gravity. Those of his family preceding Harley in death were his father, mother, two brothers and two sisters. Those surviving re his faithful wife, Leona; a son, Emery, and numerous cousins, two of whom, Mr. and Mrs. Kent Wallace live near. There are also many nieces and nephews residing elsewhere. He was a member of the Seven Day Advent Church. He was a good father and husband and always willing to help anyone in need. Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 28, 1966 Mrs. Wallace Rites July 23 [Funeral services for Mrs. Frank (Leona) Wallace, 74, of Gravity, held July 23 at Gravity Christian Church were conducted1 by Rev. Ivo Randels. Mrs. Wallace died at Clarinda Municipal Hospital July 20, 1966 following a short illness. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity. Leona Belle Norris was born June 22, 1892, in Yates City, Ill. to Frank S. and Nellie Norris and moved as a child to Iowa with her parents and brothers and sisters. She received most of her schooling in Taylor County. Her marriage to Emery Harley Wallace was in January 1911 and they observed their Golden Wedding Anniversary on Jan. 25, 1961. She was preceded in death by her husband on Sept. 6, 1965, and by her parents, sisters, Happy and Mary, and brother, Frank. She was a member of the Christian Church at Gravity and until recently was an active member of one of the church circles. Her survivors include one son, Emery, of the family home southwest of Gravity; two sisters, Mrs. Pearl Hollemback, Casper, Wyo., and Miss Evadne Norris, Bedford; a brother, John Norris of Spring Valley, Calif., and several nieces and nephews. |