Obituaries
submitted by: Julia Johnson - julia.johnson63@gmail.com
 

[MCKAY, ANNIE ELIZABETH HIMELBURGER]

Bedford Free Press, Tuesday, October 19, 1915, p. 8

Sharpsburg

Rev. J. F. McKay of Seymour, Neb., who was called to Gravity by the death of his mother, visited a few days with his brother, Wm. McKay, before returning home. Ora McKay and wife, also of Seymour, were visiting here at the same time.

[MCKAY, ANNIE ELIZABETH HIMELBURGER]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, October 14, 1915, p. 8

Gravity

Mrs. A. E. McKay died at her home here Wednesday, after a lingering illness of many months. Funeral services were held from the Free Methodist church, Saturday at 1:30 p. m. Interment at Gravity cemetery.

 


[MCKUNE, OSCAR]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 31, 1953, p. 6

Gravity---Relatives received word this past week of the death of Oscar McKune, formerly a resident of this vicinity, but now of Colorado. Body was returned here and funeral was held Monday afternoon at the Christian church. Burial in Gravity cemetery.

[MCKUNE, OSCAR]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 31, 1953, p. 8

Obituary – Oscar McKune

Oscar McKune, son of Thomas and Mary McKune, was born near Mount Ayr, Ringgold County, Iowa, Feb. 7, 1875 and died at the home of a niece, Mrs. Marjorie Taylor, Fort Collins, Colo., Dec. 23, 1953 at the age of 78 years, ten months, 16 days.

He moved to Taylor County with his parents at an early age and lived here most of his life except for a few years spent in Colorado.

In 1897 he married Rachel Ann Garrett. To them were born four children: Carl and Clarence McKune of Denver; Mrs. Opal Sollars of Gravity, Mrs. Coral Adams of Kansas City.

He had been in failing health the past three years and in the past months had become an invalid. His parents and one sister, Nora Wagoner, preceded him in death.

He leaves to mourn his passing his four children, ten grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Ida Rile of Gravity.

Funeral services were held at the Gravity Christian church Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Benj. R. Hollis of Bedford. Burial was in Gravity cemetery.
[Note: Iowa, Marriages gives the marriage date as February 9, 1898.]

[MANKLE, FLORENCE JOSEPHINE]

Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, September 18, 1947, p. 11

Florence Josephine Mankle

Florence Josephine Mankle, the daughter of Jacob and Mary J Mankle, was born in Peoria county, Ill, on Dec 26, 1868 and died on Aug 31, 1947, at the age of 78 years, 8 months and 5 days. She moved in early childhood with her parents to a farm near Essex, Ia, and later to a home in the Dallas Center neighborhood in Taylor county. In 1904 they moved to New Market where she lived until her death. She never married but helped rear the family and nursed her father and mother through their last illness. She leaves two brothers, Cassius C of Topeka, Kan and Edwin L of New Market and other relatives and friends. Two brothers preceded her in death, George in May 1939, and John in 1944.

“So live, that when thy summons
comes to join
the innumerable caravan that
moves
To that mysterious realm, where
each shall take
His chamber in the silent halls
of death,
Thou go not, like the quarry slave
at night,
Scourged to his dungeon, but
sustained and soothed
By an unfaltering trust, approach
thy grave
Like one who wraps the drapery
of his couch
About him and lies down to pleasant
dreams.”

Funeral services were held at the home Tuesday afternoon conducted by Rev E L Field assisted by Rev Moore. Music was furnished by Miss Opal Wallace and Mrs Opal Brown. Interment was at Dallas Center cemetery. Pallbearers were Thomas L Harris, Ora Cade, Ralph Pratt, Ralph Bayless, Wesley Glasgow and George Vanhorn.

[MARTIN, CHARLES EDDY]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 16, 1950, p. 7

Obituary – C. E. Martin

Charles Eddy Martin, son of William and Mary Martin, was born in Knox County, Illinois, March 3, 1864 and died February 4, 1950, at his home in Gravity, at the age of 85 years, 11 months and 1 day.

He was married to Mrs. Ida Taylor, August 31, 1900. She preceded him in death February 9, 1947. Also a stepdaughter, Audrey Taylor in 1943.

He was the last of ten children, a family of three boys and six girls.

Dr. Martin came to Taylor County with his parents at the age of three years. A few years were spent in practicing osteopath in Pella and Des Moines, and he lived for a time in Canada. The rest of his life was spent in Gravity.

While his health had not been good for several years, he was able to be about the yard until last fall. His sight had been bad for the last few years.

He leaves to mourn his passing a number of nieces and nephews.

[MARTIN, JAMES WILSON]

Taylor County Herald, Thursday, December 22, 1932, [p. 1]

Attend Martin Funeral At Gravity Last Friday

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Marshall and daughter Miss Belva, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Morgan attended the funeral of James Martin, at Gravity, last Friday at 2 p. m. The funeral was held at the Methodist church. Mr. Martin was a life time resident of Gravity and died very suddenly Tuesday morning, December 13.

[MARTIN, MARY CATHERINE HEADLEY]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, March 14, 1907, p. 8

Wife and Mother Gone

Mary Headly [Headley] Martin was born in Parke County, Indiana, November 10, 1822, and passed peacefully away at her home near Gravity, Iowa, March 11, 1907, at the ripe age of 84 years, 4 months and 1 day. On April 18, 1844, she was united in marriage with her now sorrowing husband with whom she shared the joys and sorrows of life for 63 years. To this union were born ten children, two of whom died in infancy, and one, the oldest daughter, in early womanhood. Sister Martin was converted to God when quite young and united with the M. E. church in Illinois. She came to Iowa in 1870. In 1883 she, with her husband, united with the first M. E. church in Gravity, Iowa, and lived a faithful and consistent Christian life until she joined the heavenly ranks of friends and kindreds dear; she was the last of a large family to be called home. She was a faithful wife and an affectionate mother, always mindful of the welfare of her family and ready at all times to lend a helping hand to the sick and afflicted. Her work on earth is done; she has answered the roll call of the Great Captain of her salvation.

During the last three years of her affliction she was tenderly cared for by her oldest son who spared no pains to make the last days her best days. Her three daughters also spent much time in caring for their mother whom they loved so well. A sorrowing husband who is waiting on the banks of the river for the Pilot of Galilee. Four sons and three daughters as follows: R. [ufus] H. [enry] Martin, J.[ames] W. [ilson] Martin, A. [braham] L. [incoln] Martin all of Gravity, Iowa, and C. [harles] E. [ddy] Martin of Pella, Iowa. Mrs. M. [ary] A. [ngeline] Leigh of Abingdon, Mrs. E. [mily] C. [atherine] Lake of Fancy Prairie and Mrs. L. [aura] B.[elle] Webb of Paloma, Illinois, all of whom weep because there is a vacant chair in the old home that never can be filled.

Funeral services by J. H. Freedline, pastor of the first M. E. church. The remains were laid to rest in the Gravity cemetery there to sleep the sleep of the beloved, “for He giveth his beloved sleep.”   J. H. F.

[MARTIN, MARY CATHERINE HEADLEY]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, March 14, 1907
Mrs. Wm. Martin, an aged lady living at Gravity, died Monday from a complication of diseases, resultant of old age. She was buried Wednesday.

[MARTIN, RUFUS HENRY]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 6, 1934

Gravity

Rufus Martin died at the home of his brother, C. E. Martin, Thursday morning, after an illness of several months. The funeral services were held Monday afternoon and burial was made in the Gravity cemetery.

[MARTIN, SARAH GRACE MORGAN]

Gravity Independent, Thursday, October 7, 1948, [p. 1]

Obituary, Mrs. Sarah Martin

Sarah Martin was born in Cuba, Fulton County, Ill., October 6, 1862, and passed away at the Lakeside Hospital, Kansas City, Mo., at the age of 85 years, 11 months and 26 days. She was the 5th child of twelve children born to Daniel and Nancy Morgan.

At the age of five she moved with her family in a covered wagon to Taylor County, Iowa, the Morgans being among the earliest settlers in Holt Twp.

On January 20, 1881, she was united in marriage to James Wilson Martin, who preceded her in death on December 14, 1932.

To this union were born six children: Mildred Martin Pfander and Floyd, both deceased, Mrs. Faye Lane and Mrs. Merle Richmond of Kansas City, Mo.; Paul of North Platte, Nebr. and Ansel of Cincinnati, Ohio.

She moved with her husband in 1891 to the home in Gravity, which she has occupied continuously with the exception of the past year when she made her home with her daughters in Kansas City.

She was an active member of the Methodist church here for many years and was a charter member of the Ladies Aid Society.

She was a devoted wife and mother, sacrificing many of her own pleasures and comfort for the benefit of her family.

In addition to her four living children, she leaves to mourn her death, two brothers Joe and Cecil Morgan of Gravity and Mrs. Charles Field of Clear Lake, seven grandchildren, three great grandchildren, numerous nephews and nieces and a host of friends made during her long residence in this community.

The funeral service was held in the Methodist church here at 2:00 o’clock, Tuesday afternoon, conducted by the Rev. W. J. Weber, pastor of the church. Interment was in the family lot in the Gravity cemetery.

The funeral music was two tenor solos by Carl Martin, of Cincinnati, a grandson of the deceased and son of Ansel Martin, with Mrs. Harry Burmeister piano accompanist.

The casket bearers were: Leland Morgan, Homer and Clarence Marshall, Paul Morgan, Ray Sharp and Paul Morris.

[MASKER, MARY ANN WALKER]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 14, 1937, p. 3

Gravity

Mrs. Masker Dies

Bury Long Time Resident In Gravity Cemetery

Mrs. Theodore Masker, who had been ill with heart trouble, passed away at her home northwest of Gravity, Saturday evening. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Gravity M. E. church, conducted by the pastor, Rev. A. J. Bissinger. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery.

[MASKER, MARY ANN WALKER]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 21, 1937, p. 7

Mary A. [nn] Masker, eldest daughter of Wm. and Ann Walker, was born in England, Nov. 9, 1855 and died Oct. 9, 1937 having lived 81 years and 11 months.

When only 2 years old she came with her parents to Canada. Later they moved to Illinois and still later to Taylor County where she resided until her death.

She was married on December 21, 1878 to Theodore Masker at Conway, Iowa, and lived a married life for almost 59 years.

To this union were born three children, Wm. G. Masker of Corning, Jesse G. Masker and Theo. G. Dugan, both of Gravity. She also had six grandchildren and one great grandchild. She leaves to mourn her death, her husband, all of her children, grandchildren, one sister and one brother.

The funeral service was held in the Methodist church Monday afternoon, conducted by the pastor, Rev. A. J. Bissinger. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery.

Attend Masker Funeral

Those from a distance who attended the funeral service for Mrs. Theodore Masker last week were: Mrs. Cora O’Brien and Bert Morrison of Plattsburg, Mo., Will Chaffin and wife, and Mandel Chaffin and family of Yorktown.

[MORGAN, EMMA FLORENCE ANDERSON]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 3, 1962, p. 4

Emma Morgan Rites Thursday

Funeral services for Mrs. Jesse Morgan were held at the Gravity Methodist church, Thursday, April 26. Rev. James Sheckler officiated. Burial was in Washington cemetery at Gravity.

Emma S. [Florence], daughter of Samuel and Iamba [Iambe LaMaster] Anderson, was born January 12, 1876 in Fulton County, Illinois. In 1895 [1896] she was married to Jesse C. Morgan at Gravity and to this union were born two daughters and three sons.

She was preceded in death by her son Vern and her husband, Jesse. Surviving members of the family are two daughters, Mrs. Hildred McKercher of Omaha, Mrs. Pauline Levi of Cedar Rapids; two sons, Paul Morgan of Omaha, LeRoy Morgan of South Gate, Calif.; one half brother, Glade Anderson of Rapid City, So. Dak.; a half sister, Mrs. Beatrice Eden of Waterloo. She also had ten grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and four great great grandchildren.

She was a member of the Omaha Trinity Methodist church and the Omaha chapter of the Eastern Star at the time of her death. She lived 32 years in Gravity, 35 years in Omaha, and for the past three years lived with her daughter, Mrs. Pauline Levi in Cedar Rapids.

She passed away April 24 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids.
[Note: Iowa, County Marriages and Iowa, Marriages give the marriage date as June 18, 1896.]

[MORGAN, JESSE C.]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 17, 1947, p. 7

Jess Morgan Dies

Funeral services for Jess Morgan of Omaha were held Saturday afternoon at the Methodist church, conducted by Rev. C. W. Proctor of Sharpsburg and Rev. J. W. Weber of Gravity. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery.

Mr. Morgan had been in failing health for some time and passed away at his home in Omaha Thursday morning. He leaves his wife and four children. The Morgans formerly lived in Gravity.

Attend Morgan Rites

Mr. and Mrs. Albert Levi and son of Cedar Rapids, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Morgan and children, Mr. and Mrs. LaVerne Levi of Omaha, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Reed of Castlewood, S. Dak., Grace Andes and Mrs. Else Eden of Waterloo, Miss Belva Marshall, Mr. and Mrs. Leon Marshall and Homer Marshall of Bedford, Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Meyers of Omaha attended the funeral of Jess Morgan here Saturday.

[MORGAN, JESSE C.]
Evening World-Herald (Omaha, Nebraska), Friday, April 4, 1947
Jesse C. Morgan, 80, Thursday at home, 3303 North Fourteenth Avenue. Survivors: Wife, Emma F.; daughters, Mrs. Hildred Woodard, Omaha; Mrs. Pauline Levi, Cedar Rapids, Ia.; sons, Paul, Omaha; LeRoy, Lynwood, Cal. Services, Saturday, 2 p. m., Gravity (Ia.) Methodist Church; burial, Gravity. In the Garden Mortuary.

[MOODY, MARTHA JANE]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, May 2, 1907, p. 4

Gravity Items

The funeral of Mrs. Moody was held in Gravity Monday afternoon.

 

 

 

[MORLEY, JENNIE JEWELL]

Clarinda Herald, Thursday, October 25, 1928, p. 6

Dies at Gravity Home

Mrs. Jennie Jewell Morley, the wife of Lewis E. [dmund] Morley, formerly sheriff of Taylor County, died suddenly Monday evening at her home one and one-half miles east of Gravity. Mrs. Jewell came from one of Page County’s oldest families, who were residents of the Yorktown vicinity for many years. A daughter, Mrs. S. E. Thompson, was a teacher in the Clarinda high school.

Funeral services were held from Methodist church at Gravity Wednesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. W. H. Warrior, pastor, and assisted by Rev. Nichols of Council Bluffs. Interment was in Gravity cemetery. The services were attended by a number of Page County relatives, including Mr. and Mrs. Luther Morley, Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Mitchell, and Mrs. Stanly Pfander of Clarinda, and Mr. and Mrs. Ben Willsie of Shambaugh.

The following is the obituary:

Jennie Morley, nee Jewell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. [obert] B. [oyse] Jewell, was born November 8, 1863, in Henry County, Illinois. In 1872, she moved with her family to Page County, Iowa, near Yorktown. Here she grew to womanhood and after completing the course in the public schools there she returned to Woodhull, Illinois, to complete her normal course, after which she taught five years in the public schools of Page County.

On February 5, 1885, she was united in marriage to Lewis E. Morley, after which they settled on a farm near Yorktown. To this union were born two sons and two daughters, Harry E. of Gravity, Elsie Campbell of Gravity, Fred S. of Chicago, and Ina Thompson of Des Moines.

In 1894 she moved with her family to Taylor County, near Gravity. In this vicinity she lived until her death, October 22, 1928, at the age of 64 years, eleven months and seventeen days. She passed away as she had lived, peacefully and quietly.

In her early girlhood she untied with the Methodist Episcopal church. She loved the church and her deepest joys were found in service. She was a member of the Ladies Aid Society, the Woman’s Missionary Society, the Eastern Star and president of the Woman’s Study club.

She leaves to mourn her loss, her husband, four children, ten grandchildren, four brothers and two sisters: Susan Meads, of Clarinda, George of Arkansas, Eliza of Wisconsin, Albert of Denver, Colorado, Ernest of Fairfield, and Ira of Webb City, Mo. Her father and mother preceded her in death several years ago, but she was the first to break the circle of seven children.
[Note: Iowa, Marriages, 1809-1992 gives the marriage date as February 25, 1886 .]

[MORLEY, LEWIS EDMUND]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 13, 1947, p. 2

Obituary – Lewis E Morley

Lewis E [dmund] Morley was born in Henry County, Illinois, September 24,1865 and died at the Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, February 7, 1947 at the age of 81 years, 4 months and 13 days. He was the sixth child of thirteen children born to Sarah and Joseph Morley, six of whom are still living.

When a small boy, he moved with his parents to Yorktown, Iowa. In 1886 he was married to Miss Jennie Jewell, who preceded him in death in 1928. To them were born four children: Harry Morley and Mrs. Guy Campbell of Gravity, Fred Morley of San Marino, California, and Mrs S E Thompson of Des Moines. He has been a resident of Taylor County fifty-two years, most of which was spent on a farm near Gravity.

He joined the Methodist church when a boy and had always been a faithful member both of Church and Sunday school, serving on the Board of Trustees and as a member of the choir for many years.

He was an active member of the community, having been Sheriff of Taylor County for two terms, a member of the Town Council of Gravity at the time of his death.

In 1935, he was married to Mrs Ida Scott.

He is survived by his wife, four children and twelve grandchildren.

 

MAIN, EVA SMITH]

Blockton News, Thursday, November 5, 1914, p. 8

Mrs. S. R. Main

Eva Main, nee Smith, was born at Keithsburg, Illinois, Jan. 17th, 1852 and died at her home in Des Moines, Iowa, Oct. 20, 1914, her age being 65 years, 8 months and 10 days.

In 1871 she was married to S. [amuel] R. [iley] Main. To this union were born seven children, five sons and two daughters all of whom with the husband and father survive the deceased.

The children are: Floyd, of Montana, who was not able to be present at the funeral on account of the long distance, Cortez, of Redding, Ia., Mrs. Austie Hayden, of Des Moines, Ralph, of Redding, Earl, of Des Moines and Claud, of Des Moines. Besides these and their families she leaves in bereavement three brothers and four sisters, one brother and one sister having preceded her to the better land. She was the daughter of Rev. O. [scar] F. [rank] Smith, an efficient minister of the United Brethren church in Illinois for many years, and a presiding elder a good portion of the time. Her father and mother passed to their reward several years ago. Her four brothers became ministers of the Gospel. The living are: Rev. Frank G. Smith of Kansas City, Mo., Rev. Oscar O. Smith, of Pierre, S. Dakota and Rev. James Smith, of Quincy, Ill. The living sisters are: Mrs. Margaret Melton, of Idaho, Mrs. Sadie Howlet, of Illinois, Mrs. Fannie Jones, of Montana, and Mrs. Minnie Markley of Colorado. These and many other kindred and friends mourn her departure. But we sorrow not as those who have no hope. When quite young she accepted of Christ as her Redeemer and became a member of the U. B. Church, and ever afterwards she manifested a deep interest in the things of God’s Kingdom. She possessed a good mind and character full of spiritual good, inheriting much by family descent and influence, and transmitting the same to those who follow; so worthy to be cherished and so precious to be possessed.

She lived from the time of her marriage until the year 1897 in Illinois, when she with her husband and little family came to Watterson, Iowa, living there and at Palestine, near Redding, until the fall of 1898, when they moved to Blockton, Iowa, here they lived till the Spring of 1901 when they moved to Redding where they made their home until fall of 1903, when they removed to Des Moines, Iowa.

[MARTIN, ABRAHAM LINCOLN “LINK”]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, May 28, 1942, p. 7

Link Martin Dies

Link Martin, 81, well-known farmer, died Monday morning about 6:40 at his home in Gravity. He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. George Depew of Gravity and Mrs. Lloyd Means of Omaha; and a son, Virgil Martin of California. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at the Christian church.

[MARTIN, ABRAHAM LINCOLN “LINK”]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 4, 1942, p. 4

Obituary – A. L. Martin

Abraham Lincoln Martin, son of William and Mary Martin, was born in Rushville, Illinois, January 27, 1861 and died at his home in Gravity, Iowa, May 25, 1942 at the age of 81 years, 3 months and 28 days.

He was married to Mary E. [mily] Moore on May 6, 1883. To them were born seven children: Mrs. Ida DePew of Gravity, Virgil Martin, address unknown, Mrs. Vera Means of Omaha; and three sons and a daughter, who preceded their father in death, Ora, Homer, Leland and Hope. Mrs. Martin died March 4, 1926.

Surviving with the three children are seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and one brother, Charles Martin of Gravity.

Mr. Martin came to Taylor County with his parents at the age of six years. Here, with the exception of seven years in South Dakota, he spent the remainder of his life.

He was a faithful husband and an affectionate father, always mindful of the welfare of his family, and ready at all times to lend a helping hand to any who needed help. He will be remembered as a good neighbor. He had been in failing health the past five years.

The funeral services were held at the Christian church in Gravity, Wednesday afternoon, May 27, conducted by Rev. Ben W. Sinderson. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery.

[MARTIN, HOPE]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, August 19, 1915, p. 8

Gravity

Miss Hope Martin, who was taken suddenly ill Friday, at her home west of Gravity, died Saturday at 1 p. m. of congestion of the brain. Funeral services will be held from the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. A. [braham] L. [incoln] Martin, Tuesday at 2 o’clock.

[MARTIN, HOPE]

Bedford Free Press, Tuesday, August 24, 1915, p. 4

Miss Hope Martin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln Martin, southwest of Gravity, died August 13 [14], death being due to a stroke of paralysis. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. W. L. Dunlavy. Interment was in the Gravity cemetery.

[MARTIN, MARY EMILY MOORE]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, March 4, 1926, [p. 1]

Death of Mrs. A. L. Martin

Mrs. A. L. Martin died at her farm home two miles southwest of Gravity at 12:30 this morning, March 4th. The funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon, March 7th, at 2 o’clock in the Adventist church and interment given in the Gravity cemetery.

[MARTIN, MARY EMILY MOORE]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, March 11, 1926, p. 6

Gravity

Mrs. Link Martin died early last Thursday morning, after several months of suffering. The funeral was held Sunday afternoon at the Christian church, Rev. Warrior of the M. E. Church preaching the sermon, assisted by Rev. Green of the Christian church. Burial was made in Gravity cemetery.

[MARTIN, MARY EMILY MOORE]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, March 18, 1926, p. 2

Obituary – Mrs. A. L. Martin

Mary Martin was born near Gravity, May 15, 1864, and died March 4, 1926, at her home near Ladoga, aged 61 years, 9 months and 19 days. She was a daughter of John and Mary Moore, early pioneers of this county.

She was married to A. [braham] L. [incoln] Martin May 6, 1883, and seven children were born to this union: Eva, of Denver, Colo., who was not able to be present at the funeral; Mrs. Ida Depew, of Gravity; Mrs. Vera Greenway, of Blanchard; Virgil and Homer, of Gravity. A babe, and Hope, a daughter of 18 years, preceded her in death. She leaves to mourn six grandchildren, a husband, two sisters and one brother, Mrs. J. R. Ving, Custer, Mont.; Mrs. T. D. Slawson and J. G. Moore, both of Cashmere, Wash. Besides a host of friends and relatives.

She has been a resident of this county all her life except seven years spent near Rapid City, S. D. She became very ill early last fall, and everything was done that loving hands could do to stay the progress of the disease, but to no avail. Last November she gave her heart to God, making an unreserved surrender. She enjoyed a very bright Christian experience, and her sick room became a Bethel, a place of prayer and song. She began at once to try to win others to her loving Savior, and her last intelligible words were a pleading for hearts to surrender. It was her one desire to win a soul for Christ before she was laid to rest. She was a good neighbor, a devoted wife and mother. She sleeps in Jesus waiting the life given to immortal life.

Funeral services were held in the Christian church Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Warrior, assisted by Rev. Greene. Interment in the Gravity Cemetery. ---Gravity Independent.

[MERCER, SARAH FREEL]

Blockton News, Thursday, December 10, 1914, p. 8

Rev. William Mercer left yesterday morning for Adel to make arrangements and for and to present at the funeral and burial of his mother, Mrs. Sarah Mercer, who died at her home in Payette, Idaho, Sunday evening, December 6th.

[MERCER, SARAH FREEL]
Blockton News (Blockton, Iowa), Thursday, December 10, 1914
Sarah Mercer, mother of Rev. William Mercer of this place and pastor of the Methodist church, was born at La Fayette, Tippecanoe county, Indiana, September 6th, 1830 and died suddenly at 9:20 Sunday evening, December 6th, 1914, at her home near Payette, Idaho, aged 84 years and 3 months. Her maiden name was Freel. With her husband she came to Iowa in the fall of 1854 and after spending the winter in Des Moines moved to Dallas county and next year they purchased [a farm?] of 200 acres which they improved and made their home for many years. Ten children were born to them, nine of whom are living. Her husband died in 1883 and she continued to live on the farm near Adel until about five years ago when she moved to Payette, Idaho, where one of her sons, Clinton Mercer, resided. The remains will be brought back to Adel where the funeral will be held possibly on Sunday and interment will be made in the family burial ground near that place.

[MORGAN, BEULAH A. DOWNS]

Clarinda Herald Journal, June 3, 1991

Beulah A. Morgan

Mrs. Leland (Beulah A.) Morgan, 84 of Clarinda, died Sunday morning, May 26th, at Municipal Hospital where she had been hospitalized for the past week.

She was born April 20, 1907, at Meyer, Ill., the daughter of John and Katherine Logal Downs. In 1910, her family moved to Clarinda.

She received her schooling in Clarinda and worked for Northwest Bell Telephone, Richardson Lumber Co., and Berry Seed Co.

On June 30,1926, she was married to Leland Morgan of Gravity. They farmed northwest of Gravity for 32 years, then moved to Clarinda January 1, 1958. She retired from the Page County Auditor's office.

She was a member of the First Christian Church.

Mrs. Morgan is survived by her husband Leland of the home and four children: Richard Morgan of Clarinda; Norman and wife Katheryn Morgan, Polk, Neb.; Mrs. Marvin (JoAnne) Perry, Chariton, Ia.; and Mrs. Edwin (Sharon) Smith, Clarinda, Ia. There are eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by parents, an infant daughter, three grandchildren, one great grandchild, daughter-in-law and three brothers.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 28th, at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home with Rev. John Clark officiating.

Burial was in the Washington cemetery at Gravity, Ia.

[MORGAN, CLARENCE LELAND “LEE”]

Clarinda Herald Journal, May 14, 1997

Clarence Leland Morgan

Leland Morgan passed away at Goldenrod Manor at the age of 93, on May 7, 1997. His parents were Joseph and Norma (Sweargen) Morgan. He was born January 20, 1904 at the farm home northwest of Gravity, IA. Lee married Beulah Downs of Clarinda on June 30, 1926. They farmed until moving to Page County, January 1, 1958.

Leland retired from the Clarinda Mental Health at the age of 70 years. Preceding him in death were his wife, Beulah, infant daughter, parents, sister, two brothers, son Richard and wife May, three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Lee is survived by his three children; Norman Morgan and wife, Kathryn of Polk, NE; JoAnne Perry and husband, Marvin of Chariton, IA; and Sharon Smith and husband, Ed of Clarinda, IA.

Grandchildren are Rick and Jane Morgan of Red Oak, IA; Vikki Morgan of Kearney, NE; Rod and Jennifer Morgan of Kearney, NE; Raymond and Jerilyn Smith of Clarinda, IA; Diana and Bill Bright of Edgerton, WI; Brett Morgan of Clarinda, IA; David and Donna Morgan of Clarinda, IA; and Brian and Chris Morgan of Malvern, IA. Great-grandchildren are Troy and Stephen Morgan; Austin and Alex Morgan; Melissa, Joel and Matthew Bright; Holly, Heather and Heidi Morgan; Joshua, Jason and Jaimie Morgan; Jodie and Frank Pullen; Cody Leedom; Amber and Aaron Crawford.

He was a member of the former Oak Hill Christian Church north of Gravity.

Funeral services for Mr. Morgan were held Friday, May 9th at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home with Rev. John Clark officiating.

[MORGAN, MARTIN EARL]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, September 20, 1979

Martin Earl Morgan Last Rites Were Held September 15

Funeral services for Martin Earl Morgan, 86, of Bedford, formerly of Gravity, were held September 15 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home here with Michael Hardee officiating. Mr. Morgan died in Rosary Hospital in Corning September 13, 1979. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity.

Martin Earl Morgan, 86, oldest son of Norma [and] Joseph Morgan, was born August 13, 1893 northwest of Gravity. He farmed his entire life until moving into Bedford three and one-half years ago.

He was married to Myrtle Phillips Sept. 3, 1913, and she died in 1958.

On Nov. 12, 1959 he was united in marriage to Catherine White who died Jan. 26, 1979.

Earl was a charter member of Oak Hill Church north of Gravity.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, brother and two stepsons.

Surviving are one brother, Leland, of Clarinda; two stepsons, Foster M. White, Amarillo, Texas, and Flowy White, Lincoln, Nebr.; eight grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

[MORGAN, MYRTLE VIOLA PHILLIPS]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 27, 1958, p. 4

Mrs. Earl Morgan Rites at Oak Hill

Mrs. Earl Morgan of Gravity died March 19 after having been in failing health several years. She had been confined to a chair the past 30 years.

Funeral services were held at Oak Hill church Friday afternoon conducted by Rev. Roland Wendell. Burial in Washington cemetery at Gravity.

Myrtle Viola Phillips, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. [obert] E. Phillips, was born January 10, 1895 and died at the age of 63 years, [?] months and nine days. She was one of a family of 12 children, three preceding her in their infancy and two sisters Cora Phillips and Bertha Wood in later years. Her father died August 24, 1948.

She was married to Martin Earl Morgan on September 3, 1913 and they had always lived in the Gravity community.

Surviving are the husband and her mother, Mrs. Melissa Phillips. Also three sisters, Mrs. Stella Houch of Conway, Mrs. Beulah Jones of Conway, Mrs. Betty Chaney of Los Angeles; three brothers, Willie Phillips of Creston, Rollie Phillips of The Delles, Oregon, Howard Phillips of Richmond, California.

Mrs. Morgan had been a member of Oak Hill church many years.

[MULLIN, EDWARD]

Blockton News, Thursday, December 23, 1915, [p. 1]

Edward Mullen

Was born in Decatur county, Iowa, April 11, 1860, and died at his home near Blockton, Iowa, December 5, 1915; aged 55 years, 7 months and 24 days.

On October 5, 1886, he was married to Ellen Maloney, of Dennison, Iowa, to which union were born six children, all of whom survive, except one, who died in infancy.

[A few] years ago his health [words unreadable] years he was a confirmed invalid.

His characteristic cheerfulness endured until the end, in spite of the racking pain and nights of sleeplessness.

While there was no hope entertained for his recovery, yet his death came as a surprise to all. His years of invalidism were so many years of prayers and meditation, so the angel of death found him ready for the summons.

The funeral was held at the Catholic Church, Maloy, Iowa, at 10:30 o’clock, December 8th, conducted by the pastor, Rev. Father Pouget, and the hundreds of friends and relatives in attendance were an evidence of the esteem in which he was held.

Besides the widow and children he is survived by an aged mother, three brothers and two sisters, who mourn the loss of a kind and affectionate relative.

Interment was made in St. Mary’s cemetery at Maloy.

 

 

 

[MCKUNE, LETHA E.]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 18, 1979

Letha McKune, 83, Final Rites Were Held October 17

Funeral services for Letha E. McKune, 83, of Bedford, were held October 17 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford with Rev. Carl Cummings officiating. Miss McKune died October 14, 1979 in Bedford Manor. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Ia.

Letha E. McKune, daughter of Levi McKune and Mary Sample McKune, was born at Washington, Iowa, September 10, 1896.

When three years of age, she moved with her parents to a farm northwest of Gravity, Iowa, where she grew to maturity and attended rural school and later the Corning High School.   

She had lived in Gravity for a number of years and was employed in the Post Office there for 28 years until her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Fred McKune and two sisters, Sadie McKune and Maggie Wilson.

Left to cherish her memory are cousins; among them are Mrs. Opal Sollars who had given her care and looked after her needs during these last years.

She will be remembered by her loved ones as a kind and helpful person and the patrons whom she served for the many years will remember her as one who showed concern and love.

She will be missed by those who knew and loved her.

[MCNUTT, GUY ISAAC]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 1, 1945, [p. 1]

Dies In India

Mrs. Guy McNutt of Conway received a message Saturday telling of the death of her husband, Pvt. Guy McNutt in India on January 13. Besides his wife he leaves two small children.

[MCNUTT, GUY ISAAC]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 9, 1948, [p. 1]

The remains of the late Pvt. Guy I. McNutt returned November 30 from the Pacific area aboard the US Army Transport Dalton Victory, will be forwarded at a later date through the American Graves Registration Distribution Center in Kansas City, Missouri to Bedford, the final destination requested by next of kin.

Armed forces dead interred in temporary military cemeteries on Saipan, in Japan and the Philippine Islands are among those brought back on the Dalton Victory.

His parents, Mr. and Mrs. I. G. McNutt of Bedford, have been notified of the return of the remains to the United States.

From the Distribution Center to the final destination, the remains are accompanied by individual escort. The Shum funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements.

[MCNUTT, GUY ISAAC]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 16, 1948, p. 4

Military Services For Guy McNutt

Military funeral services for Guy McNutt, who lost his life in World War II, were held at the Shum Funeral Home Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Fred Cowles, assisted by the Bedford Post, Veterans of Foreign Wars. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery.

Guy Isaac McNutt, son of Isaac and Jessie McNutt, was born at New Market, Iowa, June 12, 1918. He grew to manhood in Bedford and vicinity.

On Nov. 11, 1939 he was married to Alice Lorene Hawn, of Conway. To them were born two children, Janet Marie and Gary Allen.

On April 26, 1944 he entered the army at Camp Dodge, Iowa, and was sent to Camp Robinson, Little Rock, Arkansas. There he joined the Calvary and was sent to Fort Riley, Kansas, where he completed his training.

On November 5, 1944 he left Fort Ord, Calif., for overseas service. He landed in Calcutta, India, Dec. 25, 1944, and was sent to duty on the Burma Road in the Mars Task Force. On Jan. 9, 1945 he was seriously wounded and died Jan. 12, 1945 at Kathing, Burma. He was first interned in Burma and later moved to Calcutta, India.

Guy was a kind and loving father, husband and son and brother, and is deeply missed by all who survive.

He leaves to mourn, his father and mother, wife and two children; four sisters, Mrs. Ruth Thomas of Ceres, Calif., Mrs. Ferne Thomas of Bedford, Mrs. Helen Elliott of New Market, and Mrs. Pearl Wray of Hopkins; three brothers, Fred and Loy of Kansas City, Charles of Bedford.

[MCNUTT, HATTIE JOSLYN]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 10, 1977

Last Rites Held March 8 for Hattie McNutt, 93

Funeral services for Mrs. John A. (Hattie) McNutt, 93, of Bedford, were held March 8 in Shum-Novinger Funeral Home conducted by Rev. Carter Smith. Mrs. McNutt died March 6, 1977 in the Thogmartin Care and Keep Apartments in Bedford. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity.

Hattie Joslyn McNutt, daughter of Emaline May Severns and John G. [eorge] Joslyn, was born in Taylor County, Iowa on July 11, 1883.

She grew to maturity in Taylor County and attended the Gravity public schools.

On September 27, 1905 she was united in marriage to John A. [lexander] McNutt at Clarinda, Iowa and they lived in Page and Ringgold Counties until they moved to Bedford about 30 years ago.

To this union two children were born: Lila Marie died in infancy and Francis who died in April 1974.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a son and a daughter, two sisters and one brother.

Left to cherish her memory are: two sisters, Nellie Winger of Waterville, Iowa and Belle Gloshen of Prescott, Iowa; one brother, Fred Joslyn of Chico, California; one granddaughter, Wanda K. Campbell and her husband, Oren Junior, and two great-grandchildren, Brad and Becci; niece, Ida Mauer, of Omaha whom she raised as a daughter; and many other nieces and nephews.

She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Bedford and participated in many activities including the BWS Circles and the Senior Citizens Group of the Church.

She was a kind and considerate mother, grandmother and aunt and will be missed by all who knew and loved her in the community and her church.  

[MCNUTT, ISAAC GROVER "IKE"]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, March 12, 1953, [p. 1]

Ike McNutt Dies Unexpectedly

Ike McNutt, a resident of Bedford several years, died unexpectedly on the street up town March 6, while he was around his usual work of trucking.

Funeral services were held at the Shum Funeral Home, Tuesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Fred H. Cowles. Burial was in Gravity cemetery.

Isaac Grover McNutt, son of Enos and Lovetta McNutt, was born at Yorktown, Iowa, July 15, 1884, and died at the age of 68 years, seven months, 21 days.

He spent most of his boyhood in Page County, joining the Presbyterian Church in youth. He was married to Jessie Mildred Joslyn, Oct. 12, 1904, and to them ten children were born.

He is survived by his wife and the following children: Ruth Violet Raymond, Modesto, Calif.; Fern Opha Thomas, Bedford; Helen Faye Elliott, Ceres, Calif.; Frederick Delano McNutt, Kansas City; Pearl Mildred Wray, Clarinda; Loy Donald McNutt, Kansas City; Charles McNutt, Bedford.

Also by 35 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren; two brothers, John McNutt, Bedford, Jim McNutt, College Springs.

He was preceded in death by his parents, six sisters, and three children. One son, Guy Isaac, was killed during World War II.

[MCNUTT, JESSIE MILDRED JOSLYN]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 9, 1969, p. 3

Jessie McNutt Rites Sept. 30

Funeral services for Mrs. Isaac (Jessie) McNutt, 84, of Bedford, held Tues., Sept. 30, were conducted by Pastor Norman Zimmerman. Mrs. McNutt died September 27 at Clarinda Municipal Hospital. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity.

Jessie Mildred McNutt was born to John and Emma Joslyn April 4, 1885, at Gravity, Iowa. She spent most of her childhood around Gravity.

She was united in marriage to Isaac [Grover] McNutt October 12, 1904 at Clarinda, Iowa. They lived most of their married life in and around Taylor County and were blessed with ten children.

Mrs. McNutt was preceded in death by her husband, four children, Lelavonne and Darrel [Derald] who died at birth, Guy McNutt who died in the service of his country, and Helen Eliot, one brother Guy Joslyn, one sister, Beulah Newburg, and several grandchildren.

She is survived by her six children, Ruth Raymond of San Jose, California; Ferne Thomas and Fred McNutt, both of Bedford, Pearl Harper of Clarinda, Iowa. Charles McNutt of Diagonal, Iowa, and Loy McNutt of Kansas City, Mo.; one brother, Fred Joslyn, of Moberly, Mo., three sisters, Hattie McNutt of Bedford, Nellie Winger of Waterville, Iowa, and Belle Gloshen of Prescott, Ia., 34 grandchildren, 77 great grandchildren; 17 great great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.

[MCNUTT, JOHN ALEXANDER]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, February 20, 1958, [p. 1]

John McNutt Burial In Gravity Cemetery

Last rites for John McNutt were held at the Shum Funeral Home, Tuesday, February 11, conducted by Rev. Colvin Caughey of the Baptist church. Burial in the Gravity cemetery.

Mr. McNutt had been a resident of Bedford several years and died unexpectedly at his home Sunday, Feb. 9.

John Alexander McNutt, son of Enos and Lovetta McNutt, was born at Yorktown, Iowa, December 3, 1879, and died at the age of 78 years, two months, six days.

He spent most of his boyhood in Page County, joining the Presbyterian Church when a young man.

He was married to Hattie Joslyn, September 27, 1905 and to them two children were born, a daughter, Helen, who died in infancy, and a son Francis. A niece, Ida Newberg Green was reared as a daughter in their home.

He is survived by his wife; the son Francis and his wife Wanda; one granddaughter, Wanda Kay McNutt, all of Bedford; the niece, Mrs. Ida Green of Omaha.

He was preceded in death by his parents, six sisters, two brothers and one daughter.

[MCPHERREN, MARGARET JANE "MAGGIE" MEREDITH]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, December 1, 1960, p. 4

Mrs. R. McPherren's Rites At Corning

Last rites for Mrs. Ralph McPherren of Gravity, who died November 19, were held in Corning Tuesday afternoon, November 22, conducted by Rev. Ross Keyt of Gravity. Burial in Gravity cemetery.

Maggie Jane McPherren, one of five children born to Edwin and Serena Meredith, was born August 8, 1893 on a farm in Holt Township, Taylor County, and died at the age of 67 years, three months, 21 days.

She grew to womanhood in the Oak Hill vicinity and joined the church at an early age.

She was married to Ralph McPherren on March 13, 1912. To this union two daughters were born, Thelma Rose, who died in infancy and Margaret Serena Adams. A foster son, Willard Forney, now of Miami, Florida, came to their home at the age of 14.

She spent all of her life except one year on the farm, coming to the present home in 1925.

She was preceded in death by the infant daughter and her parents; one brother, Will Meredith; the foster daughter-in-law, Martha Forney, who passed away just a month ago.

Besides her husband Ralph, she leaves to mourn her passing, her daughter, Margaret; foster son, Willard Forney; son-in-law, Leonard Adams; two grandsons, Mike and John Adams; foster granddaughter Gloria; two sisters, Mrs. Ethel Houchin of Gravity and Mrs. Dove Ferger of Chicago; one brother, Clarence Meredith of Bedford.

[McPherren, Ralph]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, April 18, 1968, p. 3

Ralph McPherren, 78, Rites Held April 9

Ralph McPherren, 78, passed away April 7 at his home, north of Gravity. He is survived by his widow, Jessie, and a daughter, Mrs. Leonard Adams of Corning. Funeral services were held at the Roland Funeral Home in Corning on April 9. Burial was in the Gravity cemetery.

[MCPHERREN, RALPH]

Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, April 11, 1968, p. 6

Ralph McPherren burial at Gravity

Gravity—Ralph McPherren, 75, farmer living north of town passed away Sunday morning. He had been in poor health and just recently discharged from the hospital in Corning.

He was born at Brooks and lived all his life in this vicinity. His first wife, Maggie, died in 1961. He remarried and his wife survives. A daughter Mrs. Leonard Adams lives at Corning. A brother, Don, is of Washington State. Willard Forney of Miami, Fla, was reared in their home. Funeral was in Corning Tuesday and burial at Gravity.

[MAHAFFEY, FRANCES "FRANKIE"]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, October 14, 1937, p. 3

Frances Mahaffey Dies

Miss Frances Mahaffey passed away at Clarinda hospital Wednesday. A short service and burial was held at Gravity cemetery Thursday afternoon. She was buried beside her parents.

[MAHAFFEY, FRANCES "FRANKIE"]
Bedford Times-Press (Bedford, Iowa), Thursday, Thursday, October 14, 1937
GRAVITY – Frances Mahaffey Dies
Miss Frances Mahaffey passed away at Clarinda hospital Wednesday. A short service and burial was held at Gravity cemetery Thursday afternoon. She was buried beside her parents.
L. A. Mahaffey of Fleming, Colo., and Mr. and Mrs. Hawley Mahaffey of Creston, attended burial services for their sister, Frankie Mahaffey at the Gravity cemetery Thursday.

[MAHAFFEY, FRANCES "FRANKIE"]

Clarinda Herald Journal, Thursday, October 7, 1937, [p. 1]

Bury Miss Mahaffey In Gravity Cemetery

Funeral services for Miss Frankie Mahaffey are being held at 3 o'clock this Thursday afternoon at Gravity, following her death in Clarinda Wednesday. Her body is being placed in the community which was her former home. She was daughter of the late Frank A. Mahaffey, being 56 years of age at time of her death.

 

[MAHAFFEY, MINNIE L. MILLHONE]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, October 16, 1919, p. 8

Gravity

Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Mahaffey and children of Sterling, Colo., came Friday to attend the funeral services of his mother.

Mrs. Frank Mahaffey died Wednesday at 3:30 at the home of her son, Hawley Mahaffey. Funeral services were held Saturday at 2 P. M. at the Methodist church, conducted by Rev. Jasper Weber. Interment at Gravity cemetery.

[MAHAFFEY, MINNIE L. MILLHONE]

Clarinda Journal, Thursday, October 16, 1919, p. 6

Mrs. Frank Mahaffy

Mrs. Minnie L. Millhone Mahaffy [Mahaffey], wife of Frank Mahaffy [Mahaffey] of near Gravity, passed away at the home of her son, Hawley Mahaffy, who also lives near Gravity, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 1919. The late Mrs. Mahaffy had been critically ill for several weeks following an operation in a St. Joseph, Mo., hospital. Cancer of the stomach was the cause of her death. The funeral was held Saturday afternoon at the Methodist Episcopal church in Gravity, conducted by Rev. Jasper Weber, pastor of the church. Hymns were sung by a double quartet. Interment was in the Gravity cemetery. Minnie L. Millhone was born Dec. 25, 1863 in Henry County, Iowa. She came with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lambert Millhone to East River Township, Page County, in 1875. At the age of 16 she was married to Frank Mahaffy, who with four children survive her. The children are Miss Frankie Mahaffy at home, Lambert Mahaffy of near Sterling, Colo., Hawley Mahaffy and Elijah Mahaffy of near Gravity. Three grandchildren survive Mrs. Mahaffy. They are Frank and Eva, children of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Mahaffy, and Calvin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Elijah Mahaffy. Other relatives left to mourn their loss are her father, and stepmother, Mr. and Mrs. Lambert Millhone of this city, and three brothers and one sister: I. N. Millhone and T. M. Millhone of Clarinda; Mansel Millhone of Denver, Colo., and Mrs. H. W. Hammond of West Newton, Mass. All were in attendance at the funeral with the exception of Mrs. Hammond and Mansel Millhone. Miss Mae Allen and Miss Eva Allen, of near Mt. Pleasant, nieces of Mr. Mahaffy, were also present at the funeral. The late Mrs. Mahaffy united with the Methodist Episcopal faith at an early age and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Gravity at the time of her death. The obituary read at her funeral said that she was a noble wife and mother, and the best neighbor that ever was. She never lived to occupy the new home which was being built by her husband. Everything was done to make her last days as easy as possible. A nurse from St. Joseph, Mo., attended her for some weeks before her death. Many friends deeply regret the passing of Mrs. Mahaffy.
[Note: Her married name is spelled Mahaffey on the family headstone.]

[MAHAFFEY, MINNIE L. MILLHONE]
Bedford Free Press (Bedford, Iowa), Wednesday, October 15, 1919
GRAVITY – Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Mahaffey and children of Sterling, Colo., came Friday, called here by the death of the former's mother, Mrs. Frank Mahaffey.
Misses Eva and Mae Allen of Wayland, Ia., came Saturday to attend the funeral services of their aunt, Mrs. Mahaffey.

[MARTIN, DELBERT WILLIAM "DELL"]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 30, 1926, [p. 1]

D. Martin Killed In Gravity Mine

Killed Instantly Monday at 200 Foot Level by Falling Cap Rock

Last Friday morning about 9 o'clock the report was received on the streets here that one of the Gravity mines had caved in, entombing fifteen men, but a trip to the West Mine mined by Bill Morris, disclosed that only one man, Dell Martin, had been caught by falling shale and cap rock, which killed him instantly.

Mr. Martin, a man about 50 years of age, was a professional miner, although for the past few years he had been running a fish hatchery, and was working to get money to start another. He had recently made the statement that mining was too risky business, especially for a married man, and he believed this would be his last year in the mines.

He went to the mines that morning after bidding his wife and daughter goodbye, never dreaming that would be his last trip. Several men were working with him in the 200-foot level. Mr. Martin was working at the end of the shaft, laying on his side picking coal when without warning, the cap rock above him fell, burying him beneath a ton of rock. A miner working near him grabbed his feet and tried to pull him out but the rock was still falling and he could not free him.

Other men in the mine immediately began digging away the rock but it was nearly an hour before they released Martin's body. His head had and chest were crushed and Dr. Reed reported that Mr. Martin had been killed immediately.

He is survived by his wife and one daughter. Mine officials state that the reason for the cave in was probably poor blocking.

[MARTIN, DELBERT W. "DELL"]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, September 30, 1926, p. 6

Gravity

A sad accident occurred at the Dale Morris mine last Friday forenoon when a cap rock fell on Del Martin, killing him instantly. The funeral was held Sunday afternoon at the home at 2 o'clock. Rev. Green of the Christian church had charge of the service, and burial was in Gravity cemetery.

[MARTIN, DELBERT W. "DELL"]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, September 30, 1926, [p. 1]

Miner Is Killed In Shale slide At Gravity Mine

Gravity Miner Crushed In Accident On the 200-Foot Level

Leaves a Family

Excessive Rains of The Past Few Weeks Blamed For Shale Slide Last Friday

Dell Martin, a coal miner, was killed last Friday morning while working in the West mine at Gravity. Martin was killed by a slide of rock and shale. Other men who were working near him were uninjured by the slide.

Martin, who was a professional miner, was working on the 200-foot level at the time of the accident. The slide came without any warning, pinning and covering him. Several other men were working within a few feet of Martin, and they had uncovered him within a few minutes, but he was dead. Doctors who examined him stated that death had been instantaneous. Martin's head and chest were crushed. The accident occurred about 9 o'clock last Friday morning.

Martin was about 50 years old, married, and had one child, a daughter about 7 years old. With his family, he moved to Gravity about a year ago, where he has since been employed in the coalmines.

Only about twelve men were employed in the mine at the time that Martin was killed. The excessive rains of the past few weeks were blamed by some of the miners for the shale slide. They stated that, in their opinion, moisture had seeped through to this spot, loosening the shale.

[MARTIN, DELBERT WILLIAM "DELL"]
Clarinda Herald (Clarinda, Iowa), Monday, October 4, 1926
Miner Killed in Mine at Gravity
Falling Rock Snuffs Out the Life of Dell Martin. Had Worked for a Year in the Mine
Five tons of cap rock falling on Dell Martin, Sept. 24th, in the Morris mine a half mile west of Gravity, killed him instantly, his brother miners found, who rushed into the mine and pulled out the rock that had fallen. George Newberg, who worked in the same room of the mine with Martin, was at work on the same vein of coal. George had set his wedges and just stepped outside the room into the entry way, when the fall came. All the men in the mine ran to the assistance but were unable to remove Martin. A second fall came. Workmen from a nearby mine were called on to help and the dirt moved but they found Mr. Martin dead, apparently having been killed by the first fall without knowing what hit him, as his head and chest were crushed, the doctor said who was promptly called. The funeral services were held the following Sunday afternoon from the home in Gravity, interment being in the Gravity cemetery.
Mr. Martin had been working steadily in the mine for about a year. He came to Gravity 23 years ago and has worked at his trade in several other places. He was married to a Gravity girl over twenty years ago, Miss Ethel Arvord [Alvord], who survives him, as do two children, Mrs. Ina Newberg and Miss Wilma Martin.
This being the first serious mine accident since the Gravity mines were opened, has come to the community as quite a shock.

[MEADS, SUSAN AMANDA JEWELL]

Clarinda Herald Journal, Monday, June 11, 1934, p. 8

Mrs. Susan Meads

Susan Amanda Jewell, daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Jewell, was born in Henry County, Illinois, July 31, 1862, and ended her life at the home of her daughter in Clarinda, Ia., June 6, 1934, at the age of 71 years, 10 months and 6 days.

In early life she came to Page County, Iowa, where she was married to Henry Meads Aug. 13, 1878. Ten children were born to this union, eight of whom are living: Mrs. Elizabeth Erickson of Hepburn, Ia., Mrs. Mamie Belding of Coin, Ia., Mrs. Olive Swanson of Longview, Wash., Mrs. Jennie Ingraham of Clarinda, Ia., Arthur Meads of Tulsa, Okla., Frank Meads of Villisca, Ia., Mrs. Mabel Pullen of New Market, Ia., Mrs. Bessie Thompson of Stanton, Ia. One son died in infancy and another son, Ralph, died at the age of 24 years. The father and husband departed this life in June, 1906.

While just a young girl she became a member of the Methodist church, later transferring to the Free Methodist, where she retained her membership. She was remarried Nov. 3, 1909, to Elias Meads, who departed this life in the year of 1924.

In addition to the living mentioned, she leaves 28 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, 3 brothers and 1 sister: Albert Jewell of Denver, Colo., Ernest Jewell of Ottawa, Ill., Ira Jewell of Gravity, Ia., and Mrs. Eliza Galland of Greenwood, Wis.

Funeral services were conducted at the home by Rev. T. J. and Lula Overholt of Shambaugh, Ia., assisted with the singing of Edmond Morley of Gravity, Ia., with interment in the Gravity cemetery. Pallbearers were grandsons of the deceased, including Harry Ingraham, Emmett Belding, Orville Meads, Donald Meads, Ghlee Moderly and Carroll Meads.

[MORGAN, CECIL RAY]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 1, 1976

Cecil R. Morgan Rites Are Held June 28

Funeral services for Cecil Ray Morgan, 98, long time resident of the Gravity area, were held June 28 at Shum-Novinger Funeral Home in Bedford with Carl Cummings officiating. Mr. Morgan died June 25, 1976, at West Heights Manor in Clarinda. Interment was at Washington Cemetery, Gravity.

Cecil Ray Morgan, son of Daniel and Nancy Warner [Warriner] Morgan, was born in the state of Illinois, September 25, 1882.

He moved with his parents to the Gravity area when he was a small lad and, with the exception of two years when his family moved to Orange County, California, he has continued to reside in Taylor County, either near or in the town of Gravity.

He received his education in the Gravity Schools and grew to maturity on the family farm.

On June 29, 1904, he was united in marriage to Adda Bradley, and to them one daughter was born, Eula (Mrs. Paul Morris).

Mr. Morgan followed the occupation as farmer, painter and paperhanger until his retirement.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Eula, who died March 3, 1953; six brothers and five sisters. He was the last member of his family of 12 children, two of whom died in infancy and the remaining members all being reared to adulthood. A grandson, Norman Cecil Morgan, also preceded him in death.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife and companion of almost 72 years; granddaughter, Mrs. Clara Lou Hardin, of Bedford; a son-in-law, Paul Morris of Glenwood, Iowa; a great granddaughter, Terri Morris; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends.

He was a member of the Christian Church.

Mr. Morgan will be remembered as a kind and considerate husband, father and grandfather, and he will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

[MORGAN, DANIEL WILLIAM, JR.]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 24, 1947, p. 2

Gravity

D. W. Morgan Dies

Joe and Cecil Morgan received word Monday of the death of their brother, D.[aniel] W. [illiam] Morgan at Springfield, Missouri. Funeral services were held Tuesday.

[MORLEY, HARRY EDMUND]

Gravity Independent, Thursday, November 6, 1947, [p. 1]

Harry Morley Takes His Own Life

This community was shocked Saturday morning of last week, when it was known that Harry Morley, 60, a farmer for more than forty years on the farm one and a half miles east of Gravity, had hanged himself in the barn after he had gone there early in the morning to do the milking and other chores. He had finished his milking and set the milk pail down in the barn, and the body was found about 7:30 by his daughter Beverly who had gone to the barn to look for him when he failed to come to the house for breakfast.

Ill health and mental worries are believed to be the cause of his rash act. The home farm on which he had lived for many years, had been sold, and the family were planning to purchase the O. M. Buckner acreage here in town, the deal to be completed Saturday.

The funeral service was held in the Methodist church here at 2:30 Tuesday afternoon, and burial was in the Gravity cemetery.

He leaves his wife and five children, all of whom were present at the funeral.

He also leaves two sisters, Mrs. Guy Campbell of Gravity, and Mrs. Ed Thompson of Des Moines; and one brother, Fred Morley of San Marino, Calif.

[MORLEY, HARRY EDMUND]

Gravity Independent, Thursday, November 6, 1947, [p. 1]

Harry E. Morley

Harry E. Morley was born near Yorktown, Iowa, December 12, 1886, and passed away at his home east of Gravity, November 1, 1947, at the age of 60 years, 10 months and 19 days. He was the oldest of four children born to Jennie and Lewis Morley.

When a small boy he moved to Taylor County near Gravity where he lived for the remainder of his life.

In 1908 he was united in marriage to Jessie Lowe, who preceded him in death in 1912. In 1913 he was married to Zoe Ann Morrison who survives him with his five children, Mrs. Herbert Greenhow of Los Angeles, Calif., Edmund of Burbank, Calif., Homer of San Francisco, Calif., Bob of Cedar Rapids, and Beverly of Gravity.

At an early age he joined the Methodist church.

He has been an active member of the community, having served as Washington Township assessor for 18 years, several years as member of the Gravity School board, and was recently a member of the township trustees. He held membership in the I. O. O. F. lodge.

He was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather and leaves his wife, five children, four grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his loss.

[MORRISON, THELMA FLORA GARRETT RICHEY]

Bedford Times-Press, Wednesday, July 20, 1988

THELMA RICHEY MORRISON

Thelma Richey Morrison, 76, of Council Bluffs, formerly of Gravity, passed away July 12, 1988 at the St. Joseph Hospital in Omaha.

She was born in Goff, Ks. and spent most of her life in Iowa.

She is survived by mother, Myrtle Garrett of Council Bluffs; three sons, Harold Richey, Burl Richey, Delbert Richey; two daughters, Belna Jerome of Council Bluffs, and Flora Peterson of Gravity; one step-brother, Wayne Garrett of Des Moines; three step sisters, Bernice Morris of Council Bluffs, Pauline Constant of Parnell, Mo., Ann Schiminotz of Illinois; 19 grandchildren; 39 great grand-children and five great great grandchildren.

Private family services were held at McCurdy Funeral Chapel.

[MORRISON, WILLIAM BURD]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, June 5, 1975

William Morrison Last Rites Held May 30

Graveside services for William Burd Morrison, 72, of Gravity, were held May 30 in Washington Cemetery in Gravity with Rev. Ross Keyt officiating. Mr. Morrison died May 28, 1975 at Greater Community Hospital in Creston.

William Burd Morrison was born in Taylor County, Iowa on February 16, 1903, the son of John and Winona Baker Morrison.

He married Erica Hensel, who preceded him in death. To this union three children were born: Burd Leslie, Darlene Rose and William Brian.

He married Thelma Richey in Clarinda November 14,1961.

Burd worked as a farmer, in a factory, and as a brick mason. He was a soldier in Canada, and in the United States, once at Leavenworth, Kansas. He   served   as   guard for the president at one time. He lived at various places, most at Mankato, Minn. He joined a church in his youth.

He is survived by: his wife, Thelma; three children, Burd Leslie of California, Darlene Rose Fjelsted of Madison Lake, Minn., William Brian of California; 15 grandchildren; three great grandchildren; five stepchildren: Mr. and Mrs. Harold Richey, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Jerome, Mr. and Mrs. Burl Richey and Mr. and Mrs. Delbert Richey all of Council Bluffs, Ia., and Mr. and Mrs. Vance O'Dell, Gravity; 19 step-grandchildren; 9 step-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Rosetta Fisher and Alta Little of California, and Evelyn Hallman, South Dakota; two brothers: Jim of Seattle, Wash., and Frank of Mankato, Minn.; two aunts; a number of nieces and nephews and many friends.

 

[MESSMAN, HANNAH LLEWELLEN]

Blockton News, Thursday, December 12, 1918, p. 5

Obituary – Hannah Llewellen was born in Iowa April 6, 1843, and departed this life Nov. 30, 1918, aged 75 years, 6 months and 24 days.

She was united in marriage to John Fred Messman in 1861, in Atchison County, Mo. To this union eight children were born, as follows: Henry Messman, of Sheridan; Mrs. Martha Major, of St. Louis, Mo.; Mrs. Mary Kain, of Craig, Mo.; George Messman, location unknown; John Messman, who died in infancy; Mrs. Bird Downing, of Blockton; Mrs. Nellie Shannon, of Ellendale, North Dakota; Mrs. Ida Spargur, of Iola, Kansas. Henry Messman, Mrs. Kain, Mrs. Downing and Mrs. Shannon were present at the funeral.

She obeyed the gospel about one year ago, and united with the Christian church at Blockton.

The funeral services were conducted from her home in Sheridan Dec. 5 by Challie E. Graham, after which the remains were laid to rest in the Sheridan cemetery.

The bereaved ones have the sympathy of friends, all of whom wish for them the comfort and blessing of God in this hour of sorrow.

[MOOERS, HARRY E., 1863-1922]

Blockton News, Thursday, March 2, 1922, p. 8

H. E. Mooers Dead

H. [arry] E. Mooers, a former editor and publisher of the Blockton News, passed away at his home at 2706 Seneca Street, St. Joseph, Mo., last Thursday afternoon. He was 59 years of age, and had been in failing health for some time.

Mr. Mooers published the News for some five years a quarter of century ago, trading the same to R. S. Bonham for the Bedford Free Press which he published some seven or eight years. He went to Florence, Alabama, from Bedford where he published a paper a few years, returning to St. Joseph in 1909.

Mr. Mooers was born in Virginia and first came to St. Joseph in 1883. In 1887 he was married to Miss Mary E. Crowley. When he returned to St. Joseph from Florence, Alabama, he became industrial commissioner for the St. Joseph chamber of commerce. Later he opened a job printing establishment and was engaged in that business at the time of his death.

Besides his wife he is survived by the following children: Harry Mooers, St. Joseph; W. A. Mooers, St. Paul, Minn.; Mrs. E. H. Steffens, St. Joseph; Mrs. W. G. Beagles, Florence, Alabama.

He was a member of the Francis Street Methodist church, Masons, Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias.

The funeral was held from the Francis Street Methodist church Saturday afternoon, the Rev. John F. Caskey officiating, and interment was made in Mount Auburn cemetery.

[MURRAY, CHARLES BENJAMIN "BENNIE"]

Blockton News, Thursday, August 7, 1919, [p. 1]

Benjamin Murray Dead

[Charles] Benjamin Murray, son of Leslie Murray and wife, passed away yesterday morning about 9 o'clock at the home of his grandfather, C. W. Johnson, in south Blockton. The lad was about fifteen years of age and has been ill for some time we understand.

 

 

[MCLAUGHLIN, IDA MAE OSTRANDER]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 26, 1950, p. 3

Mrs. Ida McLaughlin Dies

Mrs. Ida McLaughlin, 72, died Wednesday at her home in Sheridan following an illness of several years. The funeral services were held Saturday afternoon in Grant City, Rev. Ted Masters, Methodist minister of Grant City officiating. Burial was in Sheridan cemetery.

[MALOY, PERRY DIXON]

Blockton News, Thursday, April 23, 1914, p. 5

Word was received Monday that Perry Maloy, brother of Dr. J. [ohn] T.[hompson] Maloy, had died at Eldorado Springs, Missouri, Monday morning at 8 o'clock. His sons, George and Lewis, and his brother, Lincoln, went to the Springs at once. The deceased had been ill several months with stomach trouble and with his wife went to the Springs near two months ago hoping to be restored to health through the curative power of the water of the Springs. The remains will be brought to Maloy for interment in the Forest Home cemetery and it is expected they will arrive on No. 54 today, or not later than No. 2 this evening, and the funeral may take place at Maloy tomorrow, but as yet no definite arrangements have been made.

[MALOY, PERRY DIXON]

Blockton News, Thursday, May 7, 1914, p. 5

Obituary – Perry Dixon Maloy, son of David and Elva Maloy, was born near Redding June 1st, 1869, and died at Eldorado Springs, Missouri, April 20th. Perry was well known throughout this community, residing at Athelstan a number of years, leaving there a few months ago for Eldorado Springs, where death came after an illness of six months. Three brothers and two sisters mark the loss of one more from the family circle. They are A. D., of Omaha, Nebraska; Dr. Jno. T., of Blockton; C. [larence] L. [incoln], of Redding; Mrs. Eva Rich, of Maloy, and Mrs. W. B. Rothwell, of Long Beach, California. They were all able to be present at the funeral except Mrs. Rothwell. Perry was married to Anna Craig, who died in 1900, leaving him a family of five children, who now mourn also the loss of their father. These children are George, of Conception, Missouri; Mrs. Aria Horne, of Mount Ayr; Eulalie, of St. Joseph, Missouri, and Lewis and Forest at home. He was married to Ada Fullheart King, who with two children, Thelma and Maxine, mourn the departure of husband and father. Mr. Maloy was a member of the Baptist church at Athelstan. Last fall his health began to fail, in spite of many attempts, including the removal to Eldorado Springs, medical skill could not prolong life, which ceased Monday morning, April 20th. The funeral services were held at the home of his sister, Mrs. Eva Rich, Friday afternoon, April 24th, being conducted by Rev. Walter J. Stewart, after which the body was interred at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

 

[MENDENHALL, CLARENCE "MINNIE"]    [MULL, FRED]

Bedford Free Press, Thursday, April 8, 1926, [p. 1]

Blockton Men Killed Thursday

"Minnie" Mendenhall and Fred Mull Killed by Train Near Blockton

Clarance "Minnie" Mendenhall and Fred Mull, aged 38 and 48 respectively, both residents of Blockton, were killed last Thursday afternoon by a freight train at the Jack O'Connor crossing north of Blockton. It is believed the men had been drinking and that they had fallen to the track in a stupor as they were starting to walk down the track to town. The train crew noticed the men too late to prevent running over them, and their bodies, laying about two rail lengths apart, were terribly mutilated.

The train crew of the freight backed the train off the spot where the men were, uncoupled the engine and came into Blockton to notify the authorities. Dr. Gasson of this city was called as coroner, and the undertaker and doctor were called from Blockton. Chas. Cornell, deputy sheriff happened to be in Blockton at the time. After the arrival of Dr. Gasson he learned that the accident had happened just over the line in Ringgold County and that the Ringgold County authorities would have charge of the case.

It was brought out in the Coroner's Inquest that the two men had been doing some work for Jack O'Connor living north of Blockton and that he had issued them a check for $15.00 as half payment for the work that day. He testified that the men when at his place that day had some rubbing alcohol and had been drinking but were not intoxicated. The men are said to have been drinking men and its presumed after they left the O'Connor farm and back to Blockton, the liquor caused them to fall in a stupor on the tracks. Their guns, 32 caliber rifles, were found on the track a short distance north of the bodies, where they had apparently slipped from the hands of the men in their intoxicated condition.

This incident recalls a similar one that happened on the track south of Blockton about two or three years ago. Sam O'Neil, a good friend of Mr. Mendenhall, was run over by a train and killed and the last man who saw him alive so far as could be learned, was Mendenhall. Liquor was thought to have been the cause of his getting killed.

[MENDENHALL, CLARENCE "MINNIE"]      [MULL, FRED]

Bedford Times-Republican, Thursday, April 1, 1926, [p. 1]

2 Blockton Men Are Killed Today By Passing Train

Fred Mull and "Minnie Mendenhall" Struck By A Train

Coroner Is Called

Engineer of Train Claims Both Were Laying Across Rails When First Seen

Fred Mull and "Minnie" Mendenhall, two Blockton men, were killed today abut 2:00 o'clock, when a south-bound C. G. W. R. R. train struck them as their bodies were laying across the tracks two miles north of Blockton.

The engineer of the train stated that he saw the men on the track some distance away, but could not stop the train before running over them. They were both stretched across the rails when his engine struck them, he told residents of Blockton.

The two men are known for their trapping and are about 35 or 40 years old. Mull is a married man.

Dr. Gasson, county coroner, was called immediately after the accident, in order to determine the circumstance of the deaths.

The heads of both men were severed from their bodies, and their arms and legs were cut off also.

 

 [MILLIKAN, CHARLES]

Blockton News, Thursday, January 15, 1914, p. 4

A former citizen of Blockton, Charles Millikan, died at his home at Council Bluffs, December 16th, 1918, after a painful illness lasting about four months. The cause of his death was a cancer located near his ear. He was practically raised here and followed the carpenter business, having built a number of houses in the town and vicinity and was accounted a competent workman and a good citizen. He left here about fifteen years ago. He was a member, in good standing, of the Odd Fellows lodge here at the time of his death. He had secured a comfortable home in Council Bluffs with but a small encumbrance on it and carried a life insurance policy for $1000; also in the Carpenters Union for $200. He leaves a wife and three or four children. Recognizing that the end was near he "set his house in order" as best he could some time previous to death.

 

 

 

 

[MINCKS, HIRAM RICHARD]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, July 26, 1951, p. 7

Blockton

Hiram Mincks Dies

Hiram Mincks died Friday morning at his home here.

[MINCKS, LAURA SHARP]

Bedford Times-Press, Thursday, January 26, 1956, p. 2

Blockton News

Word was received here last week of the death of Mrs. Laura Mincks. Mrs. Mincks had ben spending the winter with her daughter, Mrs. Owen Saddler in Omaha.