MAUDE (FLYNN) HAWKINS , widow of Noel Hawkins and widely known in Milledgeville circles, passed away at 1:50 a. m. Tuesday [08/13/1946] following a lingering illness at the A. H. Rosenberry home in Coleta. Mrs. Hawkins, who had been Milledgeville correspondent for The Sterling Gazette for 18 years was forced to give up her work about May 20 because of her health.The body will be removed from the Melvin funeral home in Sterling to the Rosenberry home Wednesday evening. Funeral services will be at Sacred Heart church in Sterling at 9:30 a. m. Friday, with the Rev. Fr. Ambrose Weitekamp, of Tampico officiating. Committal will be in Bethel cemetery, Milledgeville. Mrs. Hawkins was born at Dubuque, Iowa, Sept. 19, 1889, the daughter of William and Mary Ann Flynn. She came to Milledgeville about 40 years ago and was married to Noel Hawkins at Freeport in October, 1909. Mr. Hawkins passed away Feb. 27, 1935. Mrs. Hawkins employment for many years as an operator for the Milledgeville Mutual Telephone company, as correspondent for 18 years for The Gazette, and for many years agent for insurance companies, made her one of the most widely known women of the Milledgeville community, and through all this came to have a very wide circle of friends. She also operated a ready-to-wear shop about 11 years ago. Mrs. Hawkins was a woman of good business ability. In the rearing of her family of six children following the death of her husband, she accomplished a task well done. Through her sacrifice and untiring work she met all the problems which came and solved them. She was friendly to all and had a personality which was admired by all. She never shirked in any job before her and was a tireless worker in all her undertakings. Those of The Gazette staff who were co-workers with her from time to time will testify to this. Her writings and her pleasant voice over the phone will be missed by many. She practiced tolerance of the ideas and viewpoints of others, and never attempted to dominate a situation, and believed all controversial matters which arose could be settled justly for all concerned minus harsh feelings and too quickly spoken words. She was an unexcitable person and cool headed in all situations. She was patient in her last serious illness, and received tender care at the home of her sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Rosenberry in Coleta, where Mrs. Rosenberry and a daughter of the deceased, Miss Jewell Hawkins gave constant attention, assisted at times by other members of the family of the deceased. Mrs. Hawkins realized fully only a few weeks ago that there was nothing medical science could do for her, and she became fully resigned to the situation. Up to the last two weeks she was rational and at time since then. She enjoyed the flowers and cards sent her and the short visits paid her. She was completely bedfast the last few days. The following children survive: William of Freeport, Noel of Sterling, Mrs. Gerald Laughlin of Mount Carroll, Mrs. LaVerne Schoaf of Rock Falls, Jewell of Milledgeville and Dorrance of Freeport. There are eight grandchildren and two sisters, Mrs. T. E. Taylor of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Mrs. J. F. Gould of Cleveland, Ohio, who also survive.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds from the The Sterling Daily Gazette, August 13, 1946, page 7, column 1

ALBERT S. HEALEY , son of Mr. and Mrs. H. T. Healey, was born in Ogle county, Illinois October 20, 1873, and died in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, March 6, 1898 . aged twenty-four years, four months and sixteen days. His entire life was spent at the home of his parents, with the exception nearly three years which were spent in Iowa. As a child, youth and young man, he was of a quiet and unassuming disposition, yet at all times filled with ambition to rise high in the work life. Always of a kind and gentle nature, no one remembers a single instance where he gave the slightest indication of irritability, and the spirit of anger never entered his soul. His early education was obtained in the district schools but after reaching his majority he went to Cedar Rapids Iowa where he perfected himself the line of work in which he was engaged at the time of his demise. While at Cedar Rapids he endeared himself to all who became acquainted with him., by his kindly disposition and honest, manly character. He was in the employ of the general offices of the B. C. R. & N. railroad. His employer says of him, "He was one of the most competent and faithful employees in the offices, always cheerful and attentive to duty, and has always been known as an exemplary young man. Three years ago, Albert was stricken with acute tonsilitis. He suffered the most excruciating agony for many weeks and when be was finally relieved, be was left in an emaciated condition. In the mouth of February 1897, he suffered another severe attact and his rapid decline in mental and physical health can be dated from that time. While this was apparent to his brothers, still they hoped that time would eradicate all trace of the disease, but it did not. It was not long before Albert began brooding over his condition, and this continued until he ended his own life to escape the dreadful curse under which he had been laboring so long. No one but God knows of the mighty struggle he had for an entire year, and no one who knew this sweet, pure and nob1e life will hold him responsible for his last earthly act. While Albert had never identified himself with the church, he was a regular attendant upon its services, as well as those of the Sunday School and League, and lived a true, consistent Christian life

Obituary Collections of Ezra Wolber - Sterling Public Library
Click here for the Story of the Tragedy

ANNIE (BARTHEL) HEALEY
, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Barthel, was born at Milledgeville, Ill., June 23, 1869. Her life was spent in the vicinity of her birthplace. The daughter of parents who idolized their children, and who were abundantly able to provide the luxuries, as well as the necessities of life, Mrs. Healey was given an excellent education. In her home, her her happiness centered. Surrounded by such benign influences she grew to maturity, the light of the home, a leader in church and social life, and to her asociates an example of exalted womanhood. In December, 1891, under the pastorate of Rev. A. C. Gruber, she became a member of the M.E. Church of Milledgeville. She lived an earnest, consistent christian life, and as surely as the christian's faith is well founded, so surely is she at present with the ransomed, singing the anthems of heavenly throngs, music whose majestic harmony might enthrall us, were not our human senses too gross to catch the vibrant melody, separated from us, as it is, by only that mysterious veil. December 27, 1893, at her home, she was united in marriage to Frank F. Healey of Milledgeville. She pledged her love to a young man in every way fitted to be her companion through life, and together they began the journey to our common goal - the grave. But surrounded with the love and best wishes of many friends, with radiant prospects of a happy, useful life before them, they thought not of the termination so soon, so sadly soon to come. Early last spring, Mrs. Healey's health began to fail. All that love, all that money, all that medical skil could do, was done, but without avail. A change was advised, and accompanied by her husband, Mrs. Healey, last August, went to Boulder, Col. Her mother soon followed, but despite the ender care of husband and mother she slowly sank, until at 8:45 o'clock Friday morning, Nov. 30, 1894 peacefully and beautifully as in the morning the stars gather about them their mantle of light, her spirit, with angels, took its heavenly flight. At her bedside when she died, were her mother, sister, Mrs. Chas. Geldmacher, her husband and her husband's mother, Mrs. Horace t. Healey. The remains were sent to Milledgeville, and the funeral was held at the M.E. church Sunday afternoon, Dec. 2, 1894 with Rev. F.L. Baldwin, assisted by Rev. J.O. Talley, conducted the service. Rev. Baldwin delivered an impressive sermon, to one of the largest audiences that ever assembled in Milledgeville. In Bethel cemetery now lies all that is mortal of one whose short life has been a blessing, a life whose influence will not cease.

BENJAMIN F. HEALEY , was born September 18, 1870, at Boone, Ia., son of Horace T. and Sarah Healy. He received his education in his home community but resided most of his life in Milledgeville and this community. On September 18, 1900, he was united in marriage to Nellie Brand. This happy union was blessed with four children, of whom three survive their father. Mrs. Healy preceded her husband in death, passing away in 1932, and one daughter Thelma died in 1924. Mr. Healy was well known in this community, having been a stock dealer in Milledgeville for many years. He had been in ill health for some time and after a lingering illness passed away on Sunday, July 14, 1946 at the age of 75 years, none months and 26 days. He leaves to mourn his loss one son, Horace R. Healy of Sterling, two daughters, Mrs. Dwight Allen of Sterling and Mrs. Kenneth Clark of Prophetstown; three grandchildren, Gary Lee and Gene Allen, and Bradford Jamison; three brothers, James Healy of Milledgeville, Frank Healy of Williamsport, Pa., and Virgil Healy of Gainsville, Florida; besides other relatives and many friends.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, July 19, 1946, page 5, column 1

HORACE I. HEALEY , was born in Buffalo, N. Y. April 22, 1843. He died at the old homestead near Milledgeville, March 5, 1915 at the age of 71 years, 10 months and 17 days. Mr. Healey was the son of Rev. Sullivan H. Healey and Emmiline Morgan Healey, pioneer residents of this section. He was brought to Illinois by his parents in 1845. The family first settled at Eagle Point, but in the fifties they moved to Whiteside county to a farm just west of the Steuben school. They lived there when the Civil war broke out and he was among the first in this section to enlist. He was assigned to Co. A, 55th Ill. Vol Inf. Upon his return to his old home in 1866 he married Sarah J. Scovillle, daughter of James and Elizabeth Scoville, also pioneer residents of this section. A large family was born to this union of which there remaining to mourn the death of the father are five sons and two daughters. the mother passed to her eternal reward in Oct. 1900. Of Mr. Healey’s brothers and sisters but two remain to mourn his death, Wayne J. Healey of Byron, Ill., and Mrs. Ella Waterbury of Los Angeles, Cal. Mr. Healey was a generous and accomodating neighbor. His admiration for and love of his country knew no bounds. He became a member of the M. E. church shortly after the close of the war and remained an earnest believer and zealous worker in that denomination. He was laid to rest in the Bethel cemetery. The Masons had charge of the services.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds from the Sterling Daily Standard, March 11, 1915

SARAH J. (SCOVILLE) HEALEY , of Milledgeville died Wednesday [10/24/1900] afternoon at 3:45 o’clock from the effects of the terrible accident which befell her a few days ago. Last Saturday afternoon about 4 o’clock as Mrs. Healy stood in her door yard attending a bonfire, her clothing caught fire. She was horribly burned all over the body, and the injuries were especially bad above the waist. Dr. Grey, the family physician, was summoned and everything was done to alleviate the sufferings of the unfortunate woman. But all of no avail. On Tuesday night a consultation of physicians was called, but the combined effort of medical skill could accomplish nothing. Mrs. Healy will be buried Friday afternoon. The funeral services will be held at the house at 1 o’clock and at the Milledgeville Methodist church at 2. The Rev. F. L. Baldwin of Lockport, formerly of Milledgeville, will be the officiating clergyman. Sarah J. Scoville was born in Carroll county Nov. 29, 1843, and was married in June, 1866, to Captain H. J. Healy. Captain and Mrs. Healy lived on a farm near Milledgeville until about a year ago, when they built a handsome residence in Milledgeville and moved into it. Mrs. Healy’s family were old settlers in Carroll and are well know to everybody in that vicinity. Mrs. Healy leaves her husband, seven sons and two daughters to mourn her tragic death. The sons reside in all parts of the United States, from New York City to Wyoming. The deceased was a sister to Mrs. E. C. Winters and Mrs. Mitta Millard of Rock Falls. Hundreds of friends join in the expression of heartfelt sympathy for the members of the sorrowing family at this time. Mrs. Healy was a lovable, motherly woman who was admired and respected by all who knew her. She was of a happy disposition and even tempered and made friends wherever she went. She was an ideal wife and a perfect mother. Her sad death has cast a gloom over the entire village of Milledgeville.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Standard, October 25, 1900, page 1, column 3

ALBERTA (FISCH) HEFFELFINGER , 59, formerly of Chadwick, died Tuesday, Dec. 19, at St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford. She was born Oct. 23, 1941, near Ideal in Carroll County to Harry and Edna (Bowers) Fisch. She married Ronald Heffelfinger Oct. 12, 1960. She attended country schools and graduated from Milledgeville High School. She was employed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture as a food inspector in nursing homes, hotels and other places. For many years she worked at the Chadwick Public Library and was the librarian for a number of years. She enjoyed writing the lessons of her life as well as poetry. She lived in Chadwick, Milledgeville, Aurora and other cities. She had been confined to a nursing home for about six to eight years. Survivors include one daughter, Rhonda Stead; one granddaughter; one brother, Maurice Fisch of Sterling; and one sister, Janice (Dean) Wilson of Kansas City, Mo. Her parents and a half brother, Harry Fisch, preceded her in death. Her body has been donated to science. A graveside service will be held at a later date.

CHARLES HEFFELFINGER , of Chadwick was dead on arrival at Sterling Community General Hospital Monday morning after an apparent heart attack. (August 1975) Born Sept. 7, 1911 in Milledgeville, he was the son of John and Caroline (North) Heffelfinger. He married Mildred Queckboerner April 4, 1936 in Des Moines, Iowa. Surviving are his widow; a daughter, Mrs. Richard (Nancy) Janssen of Chadwick; three sons, Kenneth of Sterling, Ronald of Chadwick and James of McHenry; four brothers, Edgar of Detroit, Mich., Robert of Sterling, Percy of Rock Falls, and Tom of Savanna. Also, four sisters, Mrs. Art (Harriet) Pruatt of Boise, Idaho, Mrs. Otho (Lena) Summers of Rock Falls, Mrs. Mary Lego of Lanark and Mrs. Alfred (Helen) Hendricks of Chadwick; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday in First Lutheran Church here. The Rev. Ray Kleinhaus, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Chadwick Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. today at Frank Funeral Home here. A memorial fund has been established.

PATRICIA HEFFELFINGER , 13, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Percy Heffelfinger of Chadwick and formerly of Milledgeville, passed away Friday at St. Francis hospital, Freeport. Patricia was born Sept. 13, 1935, at Milledgeville. She is survived by her parents, two brothers, Gerald and Terrance, one sister Karen Sue; her maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Strawsen of Lanark and her paternal grandfather, John Heffelfinger of Chadwick. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Alfred Hendricks home in Lanark. Burial will be in the Lanark cemetery.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois February 5, 1949 - Saturday, pg. 2, col. 3

IDA HERRING , 66, of Savanna, died in the Savanna hospital Saturday afternoon after a long illness. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon in the Fuller funeral home with burial in the Savanna cemetery. The former Ida May Arnold, a daughter of Joseph and Martha Arnold, was born in Hopkington , Ia. on July 13, 1870. On Feb. 15, 1889 she was married to John Herring in Lincoln , Neb. They came to Savanna in 1891. Surviving are the husband; a daughter, Mrs. Marvin Gillogly, and a granddaughter, all of Savanna; and two brothers, Frank H. Arnold of Empire, Calif. , and William H. Arnold of Chicago .
Contributed by Alice Horner - Thursday January 28, 1937 edition Thomson Review

GEORGE HINES , 61, of 69 Freeman Street, Milledgeville died Monday afternoon in Community General Hospital in Sterling. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced upon completion by the Allen-Woodin Funeral Home in Milledgeville.
Contributed by Margaret Maners - Mar 31, 1987 Daily Gazette

BETTY (HIGLEY) HENSAL , age 79, of Mt. Carroll, died Tuesday, February 20, 2001 at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home, Mt. Carroll. Cremation took place and a Memorial Service was held 7 pm Thursday, February 22, 2001 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Savanna, Illinois. "BJ" was born December 8, 1921 in Dixon, Illinois, the daughter of Austin and Kathryn (Wentling) Higley. She married Paul S. Hensal January 2, 1950 in Princeton, Illinois. He died December 8, 1984 in Savanna. "BJ" worded as a beautician operating Betty Jayne's Beauty Salon in Mt. Carroll, retiring in 1988. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Mt. Carroll. She enjoyed playing bridge, crocheting, painting and traveling. "BJ's" family includes a son, Jeffrey Hensal of Mt. Carroll; two grandsons, Nathan and Austin Hensal; and three step-grandchildren, Matt, Sara and Emily. Preceding "BJ" in death are two sisters, Kathryn Bertsch and Maxine Miller.
Contriubted by Lori Gilbert

GEORGE W. HODGE was born in Edinbridge, Kent County, England, May 24, 1838. He came to the US in 1858 and returned to England soon after. He made a second voyage in 1863. He settled in the town of Elkhorn Grove, Carroll county Ill., where he resided until the time of his death, 64 years 5 months and 13 days old. He was married to Mary Catharine Hawk Sept 18, 1865 and to their union ws born five children, one of who died in infancy. Those surviving are Mrs. Harriet Ann Domdey, Mrs. Sarah Elizabeth McGinnes, Mrs. Jane Lorine Domdey and James Leonard. The deceased was converted about 32 years ago in the old South Elkhorn M.E. church during the revivals held by Rev. Joseph Wardel and soon after united with the M.E. church and has from that time until the death, lived a true, conscientious christian life.
Sterling Library Obituary Collection

JAMES HODGE was born in Lyons Fields, Kent Engladn on Jan. 1, 1845. When he was 19 years old he with his brother George, came to this country and settled in Carroll county, where he has since resided. On Jan. 5, 1876 he was married to Martha F. Keckler, to which union there was 3 children born, John Albert, Wm. Henry and ALice May all of whom are living. He, with his wife, united with the church in June, 17 years ago, of which he remained a faithful member. He had been afflicted for about 14 months, the greater part of which he suffered much pain, though he bore it patiently, and seemed to realize for the past several weeks that the end was drawing near. There remains of the family, two sons, a daughter, two brothers in England, and his brother George, a sister Emily in this country and a large circle of friends. He was a kind husband and father, faithful in all his relations in life, and much esteemed by those who knew him as neighbor and friend. He died at his home at 12:20 a.m. July 22, 1896. Funeral services were at the South Elkhorn church July 23, Rev. J.O. Talley officiating. Burial at South Elkhorn cemetery.

JUNE (KRAMER) SCOTT HODGE With her son and granddaughter by her bedside, on Friday, Sept. 7, 2007, at 7:50 a.m. in the home of her son and daughter-in-law, June Elizabeth Scott-Hodge took her Savior’s hand and walked on the streets of heaven. Born on June 15, 1914, in Milledgeville, to Emma (Diehl) and Harry Kramer. Graduated from Milledgeville High School . She met and married Howard Scott in 1936 in Polo. He passed away in 1966, while living in Forreston. After he passed away, June went to work at Micro Switch, Freeport , for a few years. She then took a position at the Dixon State School in the audiology department, retiring in 1979. In 1979, she married Clarence Hodge in Dixon . They enjoyed many years together in Florida and numerous travels together. Clarence passed away in 1991. June then moved back to Freeport until 1997, when she went to live with her granddaughter in German Valley . After two years, when the family moved to Pennsylvania , she moved to Machesney Park to live with her son and daughter-in-law. June currently was a member of Beth Eden United Methodist Church , Rockford , and previously a member of Community Reformed Church, Freeport . Survivors include one daughter, Sharon (Dean) Musser of Freeport; one son, Michael (Darlene) Scott of Machesney Park; stepchildren, Frances (Don) Wiseman of Franklin Grove and Dallas (Bev) Hodge of Sterling. Grandchildren, Brian (Karen) Musser of Lafayette , Ind. , Corinne (Todd) Gray of Auburndale , Fla. , Deborah (Mark) Symonds of Chicago, Eric (Becky) Musser of Newport News, Va., and Todd (Iris) Scott and Christopher (April Cooper) Scott, all of Machesney Park; 18 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one brother-in-law, Hale (Noreen) Scott of Forreston; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Howard Scott and Clarence Hodge; brothers, Arnold and Elwood; and one sister, Marvel. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2007, at Walker Mortuary, 321 W. Main St. , Freeport . Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2007, at Beth Eden United Methodist Church , 3201 Huffman Blvd. , Rockford . Visitation will be one hour prior to services. Interment will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens , Freeport . In lieu of flowers, memorials to Beth Eden United Methodist Church would be appreciated.
Contributed by Pat Esterday - Taken form: The Dixon Telegraph, Monday, September 10, 2007, Page A2 – Col. 1 – 2

HARRY PRENTICE HODGES - At Fair Haven, Carroll County, on Friday, March 17, 1893, Harry Prentice Hodges, aged 7 years, 4 months and 22 days.

Harry Hodges was the oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hodges, and was born Oct. 25, 1885. He had been ill with scarlet fever when he was also stricken with that dread disease, diptheria, and although all was done for him that was possible, death was inevitable and he was called away after an illness of three weeks. Funeral services were held last Saturday at Fair Haven.

HENRY HOFFMAN - The deceased was a well known citizen in Fair Haven and the county for years but of late years, being unable to leave home, he has been seen very little in town. The last few years he did not go out anymore. Those who were more intimately acquainted with him will remember him as a good hearted jovial man. There was something in his nature which would go out to cheer up his surroundings. The writer always enjoyed his company for his good humor and wit. He had the faculty of cheering up others. Of late years he suffered with an affliction which was very annoying and painful and as a last resort he submitted to an operation from the effects he never recovered. Besides his own affliction he extended the sympathy of a husband to his wife who has been an invalid for years and has also become totally blind. But they have always had the consolation and assistance of Mr. and Mrs. George Knoerz [Knoess] who always did the best possible for their comfort. The deceased was born in Freienseen, Hessen Darmstadt Germany, March 30, 1829. Died at Freeport Hospital, Freeport Ill., Friday, Aug 29, 1902 and reached the age of 73 years, 4 months and 29 days. In 1856 he united with Johannette Hilt, his now surviving widow. A year later they left for America to try their fortunes, locating near Chicago. In 1858, a year latter, they came to Fair Haven where they have since resided. Mr. Hoffman met with desired expectations in his new adopted country and has been successful in providing a comfortable home. Besides the aged widow an only daughter, Mrs. George Knoerz [Knoess] survives. A son, the oldest of their two children, John G., died Jan 14 1882. He had become a grown up young man and been married several years, left a widow but no children. She too a number of years latter passed to the beyond. Funeral services were held on last Sunday from his late home which is only a short distance from the Lutheran church. Services were held at the church conducted by Rev. J. G. Diekhoff and aided by Rev. Gamber of Chadwick. The Funeral was largly attended by many friends and neighbors to pay their last tribute to the departed.
Contributed by Ron Geison

OLIVE H. HOFFMAN ,85, 109 Main St., Mt. Carroll, died Nov. 11, 1992, at Freeport Memorial Hospital, Freeport. Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Chadwick. Cremation rites will follow. Interment will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Chadwick Cemetery. Miss Hoffman was born March 11, 1907, in Fairhaven Township, near Chadwick, the daughter of Joel and Mary Helen (Altensen) Hoffman. she had been employed as a housekeeper. she was a member of the Hope Methodist church, Chadwick. She is survived by two nephews, Harlan Merkle of Chadwick and Rodney Steiner of Davenport, Iowa. She was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - Nov 12, 1992 Sterling Gazette

JEREMY J. HUBBARD age 25, of Mt. Carroll, Illinois, died July 19, 2008. A Funeral Service will be held at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, July 24, 2008 at Frank-Law Jones Funeral Home, Mt. Carroll, with Pastor Kathryn Ling of Lanark United Methodist Church officiating. A private burial service will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery, Mt. Carroll. Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., Thursday, July 24, 2008 at Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mt. Carroll. A memorial fund has been established in Jeremy’s name. Jeremy was born on October 25, 1982, the son of Bradley and Connie K. (Holm) Hubbard in Sterling, Illinois. Jeremy Graduated from Mt. Carroll High School with the Class of 2001. He was a Truck Driver for Moring Disposal. Jeremy enjoyed riding Motorcycles and ATV’s, hunting, watching DVD’s, and collecting unique knives. He chrerished celebrating holidays with friends and family. Most important to Jeremy was spending time with his children.Jeremy was a very loving father. Jeremy will be dearly missed by his son, Colin Hubbard of Milledgeville, Illinois; two daughters, Carissa Hubbard of Milledgeville, and Lilly Hubbard of Stockton, Illinois; one step-son, Patrick of Stockton; mother, Connie (Robert) Robbe of Bulverde, Texas; father, Bradley (Dana) Hubbard of Oregon, Illinois; a brother, Brad (Special Friend, Michelle Lawton) of Mt. Carroll; a sister, Michelle (Dan) Rook of Warrenville, Illinois; a step-brother, Justin Snyder of Oregon, Illinois; maternal grandparents, Richard and Shirley Holm; paternal grandparents, Lawrence Hubbard and Bill and Dorothy Shearer; maternal step-grandmother, Norma Robbe, three nephews
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

RUSSELL HUBBARD was born at Milledgeville Nov. 14, 1878 and died at Pasco, Washington May 11, 1902. His life was spent in the vicinity of his birthplace until Feb. 1900 when he went to Walla Walla WA and last January to Pasco where he met death Sunday by being overcome by Gasoline. Russell was of a quiet and retiring disposition and a boy of whom all thought very highly. He graduated from the Milledgeville High School in 1898 and started out to make his mark in the world but death stayed his hand and ceased his labors all too soon. The funeral was held from the home at the M.E. Church Friday at 3 p.m. and was largely attended. He was laid to rest in the Bethel cemetery.

Another Notice: Russel Hubbard of Milledgeville was killed in a railroad round house in Walla Walla, Washington, early Monday [05/12/1902] morning. The young man was the son of George Hubbard of Milledgeville, and left that place for the west in 1898. He was employed by the railroad company in the round house and was run over by an engine being taken into the house. The body was shipped to Milledgeville, and the funeral was held at the home in that city at 3 o’clock this afternoon the body arriving early this morning. The full details of the accident are not known here. Russel was a graduate of the Milledgeville high school and was a member of the Milledgeville lodge, Knights of the Globe. He was a young man of twenty-four years, quiet, steady and of good habits. His genial, sunshiny disposition won many friends wherever he went, and his sudden and awful death comes as a great shock to his friends in Milledgeville and vicinity. He leaves his father and three sisters. His father received a letter from him about a week ago, in which he said his position in the round house was a very dangerous one, and that he homed to get another in the near future. Fate decreed otherwise, however, and he died in the faithful execution of his duties.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Evening Gazette, May 17, 1902, page 3, column 4

DOROTHY (MERSHON) HUBER , 63, of Mt. Carroll passed away at Savanna Hospital about 8 p.m. Thursday night after several days of hospitalization following a heart attack. Services will be held in Mt. Carroll at 2 p.m. Sunday at Frank Funeral home here with the Rev. Earland Lilly of the Baptist Church officiating. Visitation will be from 7 to 9 Saturday at the funeral home. She was born in Mt. Carroll Oct. 22, 1907, the daughter of Glenn and Grace Dresbach Mershon and married Bert Huber on Dec. 23, 1933 at St. Charles, Ill. Surviving is her husband, two daughters, Mrs. Keith (Judy) Wolfenbarger of Hoisington, Kansas; Mrs. James (Jane) Green of Milwaukee, Wis.; six grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. John (Jeanette) Teeter of Deerfield, Ill.; Mrs. H. C. (Mildred) Rosenstiel of Fresno, Calif. She was preceded by her parents and one brother.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois February 6, 1971 - Saturday, pg 2

NAOMI (FOLEY) HUFFINE , age 57, died Friday, February 15, 2008 at her home in rural Savanna, Illinois, surrounded by her loving family,. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna with Reverend Mike Meyer of the Savanna Bible Church officiating. Burial will be in Spring Lake Cemetery, Savanna. Friends may call from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Monday, February 18 at Law-Jones Funeral Home, Savanna. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Naomi’s memory. Naomi was born on February 21, 1950, the daughter of Harold and Maxine (Avery) Foley. She attended and graduated from the Savanna High School with the Class of 1969. Naomi married James Huffine on June 28, 1969 in Savanna. Naomi worked for several years as a line leader for Swiss Colony in Savanna. She had a knack for decorating and was very creative with interior design. She was fond of collecting antiques and dolls. Naomi also enjoyed camping, fishing, listening to music and playing various instruments, especially her keyboard. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family and relaxing on her deck. She will be dearly missed by her husband, James of Savanna; two daughters, Trisia (Greg Barr) Wilkinson of Savanna, and Jammie (Bob) Barten of Savanna; nine grandchildren; her mother, Maxine Foley; one sister, Janell (Ward) Friederich of Savanna; one brother, H.T. (Kelly) Foley, of Savanna; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Naomi was preceded in death by her father, Harold.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

ANNA (CONAWAY) HURLESS . of Coleta, passed away at 2 o’clock this morning at the home of her sister, Mrs. J. L. Meackins, at Milledgeville, after an illness of two months. Mrs. Hurless had been in poor health for a long time and had just returned from a motor trip with her sister, Mrs. Meakins, through the western states in hopes of benefiting her health. Besides her husband, William J. Hurless, there are left to mourn her loss a son Ray, a daughter Nellie, her aged mother, Mrs. Harriet Conaway and two sisters, Mrs. Ed Carbaugh, of Coleta, Mrs. J. L. Meakins, of Milledgeville, and a brother, William Conaway, of Coleta. Mrs. Hurless is well known in this community and the family have the sympathy of their friends in their bereavement. Funeral services will be conducted at the J. L. Meakins home in Milledgeville at one o’clock and at the Liberal U. B. church in Coleta at two o’clock on Saturday [08/11/1917] afternoon. Rev. Sylvester Sanford, pastor of the church, assisted by Rev. George Auman of the Radical church of Coleta, will have charge of the services. Burial will be made in Bethel cemetery near Milledgeville. A more complete obituary will appear later.

- The funeral services for Mrs. William Hurless (Anna Annetta Conaway) were held Saturday [08/11/1917] afternoon at 2 o’clock at the Liberal U. B. church in Coleta, conductedby Rev. Sylvester Sanford, assisted by Rev. George Auman, pastor of the Radical U. B. church. Songs were sung by Mrs. Ralph Overholser and Mrs. Arthur Maxwell. Burial was at the Bethel cemetery near Milledgeville. The following acted as pall bearers: H. T. Meakins, D. W. Deets, Arthur Deets, E. S. Colcord, R. E. Overhosler and F. R. Overholser. Anna Annetta Conaway was born July 2, 1875, near Coleta. She spent her girlhood on the old home place and on Oct. 22, 1895, she was united in marriage to William Hurless. To this union was born two children, Raymond Guy and Nellie Isabelle, who with the husband survive her. She departed this life Aug. 9, 1917, being 42 years, 1 month and 7 days of age at her death. The departed had been in ill health for the past year, and thinking a different climate might work a change the family decided on an automobile trip to the Rocky mountains. It was soon seen after reaching the west that she was slowly sinking, and a return trip home was speedily planned. Then began the long journey back to home and friends and the fight with the grim monster death. It seems that she must have made a superhuman effort to reach home and kindred and friends and say goodbye for the last time on earth. The deceased was a member of the Liberal U. B. church and an active worker, always ready to do her full share when called upon. This fine trait of her character was shown in her home and in the community at large. She will be missed by all who knew her. She leaves to mourn her loss besides her husband and children, her mother, Mrs. Harriet Conaway, one brother Wm. Conaway, at home, and two sisters, Mrs. Nina Meakins, of Milledgeville, and Mrs. Alice Carbaugh, of Coleta. The entire community extend their sympathy to the family.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, August 14, 1917, page 4, column 4

DENA HURLESS , 59, wife of Frank H. Hurless, junior editor of the Mt. Carroll Mirror-Democrat, died at 10 o’clock Sunday [02/17/1929] night at her home in Mt Carroll. She had been in poor health for six months past, but was up and about as usual until Saturday, when she suffered a paralytic stroke. A second stroke that came upon her about 6 o’clock Sunday evening caused her death four hours later. Funeral services will be held at the family home on Thursday afternoon at 3 o’clock and interment will be made in Oak Hill cemetery, Rev. R. H. Seitner will officiate.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds from the Sterling Daily Gazette, February 19, 1929

JAMES A. HURLESS , son of Cephas and Tabitha Hurless, was born Aug. 15, 1865 and departed from this life, Nov. 29, 1895 being at the time of his death 30 years, 3 months and 14 days old. His boyhood days were spent in and about Coleta Ill, and at the age of 11 years he confessed Christ and joined the U.B. church at that place. In November 1884 his health began failing, when he went to Philadelphia pA to receive treatment. After his treatment it was thought he would regain his health, yet (being an epileptic) the benefit he received was but of short duration when his disease returned more violent than before treatment, he again was taken to Chicago where a specialist again treated him but to no preceptible benefit; he returned home and not being able to perform manual labor hemade his home principally with his mother. He was very fond of baseball and with Martin V. Overholser (who preceded him to the grave one year) in the box the boys never knew defeat, being called to several places to participate in games where a good battery was needed. In the fall of 1891 his disease became so much more violent that ti was deemed necessary that he be sent to a hospital that he might have better treatment than was possible for him to receive at home, when on Jan. 1, 1892 he was removed to Elgin IL, where he remained until death relieved him of his sufferings. Thus ended the life of one who can say as he enters the pearly gates of the great beyond " I have come up under great trials and afflictions, yet with all these trials Christ has been my only solace and comfort, therefore a crown and a start await me in heaven."