Kent, Joseph (1830-1896)

KENT, ENOCHS

Posted By: Lawrence Kinyon (email)
Date: 11/21/2024 at 14:20:27

The Brooklyn Chronicle, Brooklyn, Iowa, February 28, 1896

AN OLD SETTLER CALLED AWAY

Died, at his home in Madison township, Monday, Feb. 24, 1896, of a complication of diseases, Joseph Kent, aged 65 years, 7 months and 5 days. Deceased was born July 19, 1830, in the state of Indiana where he remained until 1853 when he came to Iowa, locating in Madison township. He was united in marriage the same year with Miss Eliza J. Enochs in Montezuma and had the distinction of being the first couple married in Poweshiek. This union was blessed with four children, the eldest of whom, Bailey, was the first white child born in the county. For over forty years he has been a familiar figure in this community and was known and respected by a large circle of acquaintances. He was a good citizen, always labored for the interest of the greatest number, took an active part in matters pertaining to public good, was earnest and sincere in advocating his principles and was consciencious in discharging the duties which he believed to be right. He was a true friend, an excellent neighbor and a loving father and husband. He has been in poor health for some time and grew gradually worse until Monday when he departed from the sorrows of this earth and joined the companion of his life in the home beyond the grave. The funeral services were held at his late home Wednesday at 10 o'clock a.m. conducted by Rev. J. W. Lambert after which the remains were laid to rest in the Kent cemetery. The funeral was largely attended, showing the respect and esteem in which the deceased was held. The family have the sympathy of all in their bereavement. The following is contributed by a friend of the family:

Just as the sun was setting on that beautiful afternoon, Feb. 24, 1896, another soul joined the ransomed throng above. Mr. Joseph Kent, one of the pioneers of Madison, is with us no more. Loving hands over the river beckoned "Come," and how welcome they were for he felt his life work was done. Though his form was bent and locks silvered with age, he was still young in heart and until the last his duties were fulfilled. Four children and a large circle of relatives and friends mourn a loving father and friend.