Obituary page 16
Obituary for Margaret Hendrix McCartney
Rushville Times, December 27, 2000, page 9, column 3
Margaret McCartney
  Margaret McCartney, 81, of Monticello, died Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2000, at Kirby Hospital in Monticello.
  She was born Sept. 25, 1919, in Milmine, the daughter of Noble Edward and Alice Dobson Hendrix.  She married Thomas Nathaniel McCartney on June 21, 1940, in Bement.  He died Jan. 16, 1996.
  She is survived by two sons, Noble Thomas of Pecatonica and Jeffry Lynn of Rushville; two daughters, Mary Margaret Duvall of Monticello and Ruth Ann McCartney of Bloomington; one brother, Warren Hendrix of Bement; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
  She also was preceded in death by her parents, an infant daughter and three brothers.
  She was a member of the Monticello First Christian Church and the Piatt County Farm Bureau.
  Funeral services were held Saturday, Dec. 23, 2000, at the Monticello First Christian Church with the Rev. Steve Ingram officiating.  Burial was at Cerro Gordo Cemetery.
  Memorial contributions may be made to the Monticello First Christian Church, Kirby Hospital or Cane Hospice.
  Mackey-Wright Funeral Home of Monticello was in charge of services.
Obituary for Robert H. McClelland
Robert H. McClelland
  Robert H. McClelland, father of Frank McClelland of Astoria and Mrs. Emery Fackler of Lewistown, died Sunday morning of this week at Beatrice, Nebraska, aged about 60 years.
  Note: found in a scrapbook in Roswell, New Mexico by Nancy Harvey while going though her mother's things after her death. "The scrapbook is one which my great grandmother, Amanda Bryan Wetzel, or perhaps my grandmother, Nettie Wetzel Dean, pasted lots of obituaries of family and friends. These families were from around McDonough, Fulton and Schuyler Counties. These obits are probably around a hundred years old or may be more."
  Note: He was born June 08, 1835, died November 26, 1899, married October 09, 1862 Fulton County, Illinois to Sarah Jane McLaren.  Daughter, Fannie is Mrs. Emery Fackler.
Obituary for Margaret Haffner McClung
  McClung - Margaret McClung died at Astoria, Ill., July 12, 1898, aged 81 years, 6 months, and 29 days. Her maiden name was Haffner, and she was born in Augusta Co., Va. At about the age of eighteen years joined the Reformed Church. On June 11, 1840 she was married to Samuel McClung, and to that union four children were born, three of whom are living. In the autumn of 1852 they came in a wagon from Augusta Co., Va., to Astoria, Ill., in and near which they continued to reside to the close of life. In 1853 they joined the United Brethren Church, in which they remained faithful, useful members till death. Up to within a few days of her death she read the Telescope through every week. Among he last conscious utterances was, "Jesus has been with me a long time, and I know he will not leave me now."
  J. M. Poulton.
  Note: found in a scrapbook in Roswell, New Mexico by Nancy Harvey while going though her mother's things after her death. "The scrapbook is one which my great grandmother, Amanda Bryan Wetzel, or perhaps my grandmother, Nettie Wetzel Dean, pasted lots of obituaries of family and friends. These families were from around McDonough, Fulton and Schuyler Counties. These obits are probably around a hundred years old or may be more."
Obituary for Samuel McClung
  Samuel McClung was born in Rockbridge Co., Va. and died April 9, 1891, aged 73 years and 21 days. He was married to Margaret Haffner, June 11, 1840. Their home was blessed with four children, one of whom, Sarah, preceded her father to "that home over there." He was converted near Astoria, Ill., in 1853 and joined the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, and was a most worthy and devoted member nearly forty years. He was a member of the first board of trustees of Astoria Church in 1853. Not a word of complaint was heard from him in his severe and long affliction. He said, "It is the grace of God that sustains me" He was a constant reader of the Telescope since 1855. He was a devoted husband, a kind father, and …
  Note: found in a scrapbook in Roswell, New Mexico by Nancy Harvey while going though her mother's things after her death. "The scrapbook is one which my great grandmother, Amanda Bryan Wetzel, or perhaps my grandmother, Nettie Wetzel Dean, pasted lots of obituaries of family and friends. These families were from around McDonough, Fulton and Schuyler Counties. These obits are probably around a hundred years old or may be more."
Obituary for Alexander "Alec" McCombs
Astoria Argus, Astoria, Illinois, Oct. 14, 1920
  Alexander McCombs, another Highly respected Browning, Schuyler County, Illinois citizen, died at his home Saturday evening, death being due to heart failure.
  Mr. McCombs had suffered from heart trouble for a number of years. Friday he walked to the barn, a short distance from his residence, where he fell. He was assisted to the house and immediately took to his bed. His two sons, Reese and Taylor who were in the room with him Saturday evening, stepped out for a few minutes and on their return found their father dying.
  Mr. McCombs was born in Ohio, Feb. 28, 1844. At the time of his death, he was aged 76 years and 9 months. The deceased was united in marriage to Martha Miller, Aug 26, 1871. To this union eight children were born, his wife and four children having preceded him to the great beyond. Besides the surviving children, he leaves to mourn his death one brother and two sisters, all of Browning, Schuyler County, Illinois. The sons are Grandville, Taylor, Reece, and Martin.
  Mr. McCombs was a good citizen and his many friends regret his sudden departure. He was a good Christian man having obeyed the gospel of Christ thirty-two years ago and was faithful to the end.
  Funeral Services were held at the home Sunday morning at 10 o'clock conducted by Rev. Stephen Robertson. Interment in the Browning Cemetery, Browning, Schuyler County, Illinois.
  From: Janice (McCombs) Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Dale McCombs
Peoria Journal Star, September 4, 1993, Page: C9
Dale McCombs
  Rushville - Dale McCombs, 79, of 106 Meadow View Drive died at 10:36 p.m. Thursday, Sept 2, 1993, at Culbertson Memorial hospital.
  Born July 13, 1914, in Browning, Schuyler County, Illinois to Grandville and Ester Robbins McCombs, he married Dorothy Walton on Feb. 3, 1934, in Rushville, Schuyler County, Illinois. She died April 5, 1992. Two brothers also preceded him in death.
  Surviving are one daughter, Joyce Utter, and one sister, Lettie Simmons, both of Rushville; and three grandchildren.
  He owned and operated McCombs Trucking in Rushville for 45 years, retiring in 1977.
  Services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Worthington Funeral Home. Collis Trone will officiate. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 tonight at the funeral home. Burial will be in Browning Cemetery in Browning, Illinois.
  Memorials may be made to Cass-Schuyler In-Home Health Care Program.
  From: Janice (McCombs) Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Dorothy M. Walton McCombs
Peoria Journal Star, April 7, 1992, Page: D5
Dorothy McCombs
  Rushville - Dorothy M. McCombs, 76, of Rushville died at 1:20 a.m. Sunday, April 5, 1992, at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville, Schuyler County, Illinois.
  Born July 2, 1915, in Montezuma, Illinois to Ezra and Gertrude Breeden Walton, she married Dale McCombs on Feb 3, 1934, in Rushville. He survives.
  Also surviving are one daughter, Joyce Utter of Rushville; three grandchildren; one brother, Albert Walton of Rushville; and two sisters, Ellen Campbell of Rushville and Goldie Johnson of Golden, Illinois.
  She was a member of Browning Church of Christ.
  Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville. Collis Trone will officiate. Visitation will be from 7 to 8:30 tonight at the funeral home. Burial will be in Browning Cemetery.
  Memorial may be made to Culbertson Memorial Hospital.
  From: Janice (McCombs) Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Ed McCombs
Rushville Times, July 8, 1976, page 6 - column 2
Rites held in Astoria for Ed McCombs
  Ed McCombs, 70, of Astoria, died Saturday in Culbertson Memorial Hospital.
  Services were held at 1:30 p.m. Monday at Shawgo Memorial Home. Collis Trone officiated and burial was in Astoria Township Cemetery.
  He was born in Schuyler County on February 9, 1906, a son of Grandville W, and Ester Robbins McCombs. He married Alma Trone on January 20, 1926, in Schuyler County, Illinois. She survives.
  Also surviving are two sons, Lawrence E. of Pekin and Robert of Astoria; 9 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren.
  He also leaves 2 brothers, Clifford of Mt Sterling, Illinois and Dale of Rushville, Illinois; and one sister Mrs. Lettie Simmons of Rushville, Illinois.
  One daughter preceded him in death.
  Mr. McCombs was a caretaker of Astoria Township Cemetery, Fulton County, Illinois for 10 years, retiring Feb 1.
  From: Janice (McCombs) Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Grandville Wright McCombs
Rushville Times, Feb 5, 1959
Rites Held Friday For Grandville McCombs, 84
  Funeral services for Grandville Wright McCombs, 84, who died Wednesday morning in his home in Browning Township, Schuyler County, Illinois where held Friday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Browning Church of Christ with burial in Browning Cemetery, Browning, Illinois. The Rev. Dean Wright, pastor of Schuyler Parish Churches, officiated.
  Mr. McCombs was born November 26, 1874 near Browning, Schuyler County, Illinois, the eldest son of Alexander and Martha Miller McCombs. He was married to Ester Robbins Dec 12, 1899.
  Survivors are three sons, Clifford of Mt. Sterling, Illinois; Ed of Astoria, Illinois and Dale of Ray, Illinois; a daughter, Mrs Lettie Simmons of Browning, Illinois; two brothers, Martin of Browning, Illinois and Reese of Astoria, Illinois; four grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
  He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Taylor and a sister, Mrs. Janey Stambaugh.
  Many years ago he confessed his faith in Christ and became a member of the Church of Christ at Browning, Illinois remaining loyal to his faith through out his lifetime.
  Mr. McCombs spent his entire life in the vicinity of Browning and Bader and was loved and respected by a great number of friends and neighbors.
  From: Janice (McCombs) Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Janet R. Shinall McCombs
Rushville Times, August 29, 2001, page 13, column 1
Janet McCombs
  Janet R. McCombs, 54, of Beardstown, died Monday, Aug. 27, 2001, at Heritage Manor East.
  Born April 19, 1947, in Beardstown to Floyd and Flossie Inman Shinall, she married Pat H. McCombs on March 15, 1970, in Beardstown.  He survives.
  Also surviving are two sons, Pat W. (wife, Kim) of Rushville and Damon of Beardstown; one sister, Fae Curry of Finger, Tenn.; and four grandsons.
  She was preceded in death by one brother and one sister.
  She had worked at area nursing homes.
  She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Beardstown.
  Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Beardstown City Cemetery.  Family will receive friends from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Friday at Sager Funeral Home.
Obituary for John "Jack" McCombs
Rushville Times, February 14, 1940
  John McCombs born February 5, 1893 in Beardstown, Illinois
  Died February 10, 1940 in Bader, Illinois at home - aged 47 years, 5 days.
  Parents Henry and Mahala McCombs. He married Louise Douglas on March 23, 1921.
  Survives Widow; sisters, Rose Hinds; Jane McCombs; Dolly Streeval of Ashland, Illinois; Ada White of Virginia, Illinois; Minnie Conner and Cora McCombs of Springfield, Illinois; brother, Henry McCombs of Fairview Illinois.
  From Janice McCombs Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Linda M. Orwig McCombs
Rushville Times, January 23, 2002, page 13, column 5
Linda McCombs
  Linda M. McCombs, 54, of Astoria, died Thursday, Jan. 17, at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.
  She was born June 27, 1947, in Canton, the daughter of Henry David and Myrl (LeMasters) Orwig.
  She married Lloyd McCombs on April 23, 1966, in Astoria.  He survives.
  She was preceded in death by one brother, Dwayne, and one sister, Betty Thomas.
  Survivors include her husband, Lloyd McCombs of Astoria and one sister, Mrs. Robert (Rita) Hamm of Marathon, Fla.
  She had been employed at the Astoria Healthcare Center.
  Services were Monday, Jan. 21, at Shawgo Memorial home in Astoria with the Rev. Cliff Parry officiating.  Burial was in Astoria Cemetery.
  Memorials may be made to the Astoria Rescue Squad.
Obituary for Mahala Ann Guinn McCombs
Rushville Times, December 13, 1937
  Jack McCombs was called to Ashland Tuesday by the serious illness of his mother, Mrs. Mahala McCombs, who has been ill for quite some time. She passed away after he arrived. The family attended the funeral which was held on Thursday.
  Note: daughter of John and Sarah Syfert Guinn, born 1874, wife of Henry.
  From Janice McCombs Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Martha Ellen Jeanette Miller McCombs
Astoria Argus, Astoria, Illinois, Sept 29, 1920
  Martha Miller McCombs was born in Pike County, Illinois, September 20th 1854 . Departed this life at her home in Browning, Schuyler County, Illinois Sept. 23rd, 1920, aged 66 years and three days. She was married to Alexander McCombs August 25th, 1871. To this union were born 8 children: Granville; Taylor; Reece and Martin are living in Browning Township, Schuyler County, Illinois; three died in infancy and one daughter, Mrs. Nathaniel Stambaugh preceded her mother in 1909.
  Besides husband and sons she leaves one sister of Peoria, Illinois and one brother, James Miller of Browning, Illinois.
  Funeral services were held at the Church of Christ Saturday morning at 11 o'clock, conducted by Rev. J. M. Walton. Internment in the Browning Cemetery, Browning, Schuyler County, Illinois.
  From: Janice (McCombs) Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Martin Edward McCombs
died: May 23, 1967
Martin E. McCombs, Browning, Illinois
  Martin Edward McCombs, 82, lifetime Browning area resident, died early yesterday in Culbertson Memorial Hospital, Rushville, after an illness of 5 ½ years.
  He was born April 9, 1885, near Browning, the son of Alex and Martha Jeanette Miller McCombs and was first married in 1909 to Ima Aldridge who died in Feb of 1924.
  He then married Ida M. Binns in 1926, who survives along with one son, Melvin H. McCombs of East Peoria, Illinois; one daughter, Mrs Emma Jeanette Gottlieb of Creve Coeur, Illinois; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and one brother, Reece McCombs of Astoria, Illinois.
  He was preceded in death by one infant daughter, two brothers and one sister.
  Mr. McCombs was a member of the Browning Church of Christ were services will be at 2 p.m. tomorrow. Burial will be in Browning Cemetery.

Rushville Newspaper
  He retired as a section hand on the CB & Q Railroad (Schuyler County History Vol II)
  From: Janice (McCombs) Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Patsy Ann Thornton Steadman McCombs
died: November 30, 1929
Rushville Times, December 4, 1929
Coal Gas Caused Death of Aged Browning Lady
  Mrs. Patsy Thornton McCombs aged 74 years of Browning was found dead in her home by her niece, Mrs. Tracy Miller and husband, death due to asphyxiation and suffocation.
  Funeral Services were held Monday at 11 o'clock from Browning M. E. Church conducted by T.W. Rippy. Internment in the {New} Ridgeville Cemetery.
  Patsy Ann Thorton, daughter of Felix and Ollie Thornton, was born near Browning, May 22, 1855 and departed this life November 3, 1929 at the age of 74 years, 6 months, and 7 days. A life long resident of the vicinity of Browning, but later years made her home in Browning.
  She was united in marriage to David Steadman first who proceeded her in death. A number of years later, she was united in marriage to Martin McCombs, Sr. No children were born to this union and the husband preceded her in death.
  Later in life she united with the M. E. Church of Browning. She leaves to mourn, a sister with whom she resided, Mrs. Martha E. Thornton in Browning, a brother, J. A. Thornton of Virginia, Ill; two sisters, besides the father and mother have proceeded her in death. Also she leaves a number of grandchildren, great grandchildren besides other relatives and friends.
Obituary for Willis P. McCombs
Peoria Journal Star, October 17, 1995, Page: D5
Willis McCombs
  Browing - Willis P. McCombs, 71, of Browning died at 3:40 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, 1995, at Snyder's Vaughn-Haven Nursing Home in Rushville, Illinois.
  He was born Jan. 15, 1924, in Browning, Illinois to Charles Taylor and Bessie Mercer McCombs.
  Surviving are one sister, Blanche Phillips of Rushville; two nieces, Carole Buck of Rushville and Phyllis Scalf of Tremont; and two nephews, Loren McCombs and Roger McCombs, both of Lewistown, Illinois. He was preceded in death by five brothers.
  He worked in construction and farmed in the Browning area.
  He was a medic in the Army from March 16, 1943, to Feb. 19, 1946.
  Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Wood-Roby Funeral Chapel in Rushville. Collis Trone will officiate. Visitation will be from 7 to 9 tonight at the funeral chapel. Burial will be in Browning Cemetery, where military rites will be accorded by Schuyler American Legion Post 4.
  Memorials may be made to Browning Fire Department.
  From: Janice (McCombs) Johnson <janice@netins.net>
Obituary for Elliott McCormick
  Elliott McCormick, son of Harvey and Elizabeth Hagsett McCormick, was born July 29, 1857, died Feb. 9, 1934, aged 76 years, 6 months and 11 days. He was united in marriage, Nov. 17, 1881, to Emma Bisby, to this union four children were born: Mrs. Bertha Haney of Industry, Mrs. Ora Brock of Vermont, Mrs. Irma Swift of Canton, and Hershal McCormick of Youngstown. He leaves to mourn his loss, besides his wife and children, two brothers, Amziah McCormick of Lodi, Calif., and Finley McCormick of Vermont. Three brothers and one sister have preceded him in death.
  Note: Emma Adella Bisby married Elliott McCormick 17 Nov 1881. Elliott McCormick was born 29 Jul 1857. Died  9 Feb 1934. Buried Vermont Cemetery, Fulton Co., IL. They had the following children: Bertha M.; Ora L.; Irma; Herschel.
Obituary for Emma Adella Bisby McCormick
born 7 Mar 1862 near Astoria, Fulton Co., IL. Died 24 Oct 1940. Buried Vermont Cemetery, Fulton Co., IL.
October, 24, 1940
  Mrs. Emma Adella McCormick, 78, died at 2 a.m. this morning from complication resulting from a broken hip four years back.
  She was born near Astoria, March 7, 1862 the daughter of Levi and Ann (Aten) Bisby. She was married to Elliott McCormick, November 17, 1891 who died February 10, 1934.
  Surviving are four children, Mrs. Bertha Haney, Industry; Mrs. Irma Swift, Canton; Mrs. Ora Brock and Herschel McCormick of Vermont. Three sisters: Mrs. Luella Miller of Colchester, Mrs. Ellen Adair of Macomb and Mrs. Alta Daniels of Brooklyn also survive together with two brothers, William Bisby of Plymouth and Ross Bisby of Colchester.
  Funeral services will be held from the home at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon. Interment in Vermont Cemetery.
Obituary for Hale F. McCormick
Rushville Times, May 2, 2001, page 15, column 3
Hale McCormick
  Hale F. McCormick, 86, of Vermont, died Saturday, April 28, 2001, at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.
  He was born June 20, 1914, in Oakland Township, Schuyler County, the son of Willis K. and Lillian Easley McCormick.  He married Mary June Bucy on March 12, 1954, in Ipava.  She survives.
Also surviving are one son, Brian McCormick of Vermont; one daughter, Tammie Blindt of Vermont; one step-son, Gary Counselman of Topeka, Kan.; one sister, Ramona Alvadj of Champaign; and nine grandchildren.
  He was preceded in death by one step-son, Ed Counselman; and two sisters, Pauline Kirkbride and Amy Smith.
  He was a life long farmer and lived in Oakland Township of Schuyler County all of his life.
  Funeral services were Tuesday at the Vermont United Methodist Church with Rev. Jerry Sawyer officiating.  Burial was in the Vermont Cemetery.  Kost Memorial Home in Vermont was in charge of services.
  Memorials may be made to Vermont Ball Park or Vermont Fire and Rescue Squad.
Lawrence McCullough Death
died: March 10, 1924
Rushville Times, March 13, 1924
Un-Cooked Meat Causes Death Of Littleton Boy
Lawrence McCullough, Aged Fifteen Years, Died Suddenly On Monday At Littleton From Eating Poorly Cooked Meat.
   Lawrence McCullough, the fifteen year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis McCullough of Littleton, died suddenly Monday morning at 11:40 o'clock of ptomaine poisoning, caused by eating poorly prepared meat on the Saturday previous.
   The boy in company with a number of companions gathered at C. W . Fey's butcher shop on Saturday, and taking pieces of tenderloin, they boiled them in an from kettle which was used for rendering lard.
   It is probable the meat was not sufficiently cooked, or the McCullough boy ate a piece that was tainted, as he was taken violently ill Saturday night after he had returned home.
   None of the other boys, who had cooked their tenderloin with him and ate it, were affected and there was nothing to connect his illness with the feast at the butcher shop where a number of boys had participated.
   On Sunday Dr. Littlefield attended him and at that time his condition did not seem to be serious. The physician called again Monday morning and there were no alarming symptoms and he made the rounds of his other patients.
   In the middle of the morning he suddenly became worse and lapsed into an unconscious state at 11:30 o'clock and died about an hour afterwards.
   The sudden death of the lad in the full vigor of youth brought deep sorrow into the home, and the family have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community in their bereavement.
Besides his parents he is survived by five brothers - Rollo, Paul, Lloyd, Clifford and La Verne - and his aged grandmother, Mrs. George Pridmore, with whom he was a special favorite.
   Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Baptist church in Littleton.
Obituary for Mary Ellen Pridmore McCullough
Mrs. Lewis McCullough Of Littleton Died Friday
   Mrs. Lewis {McCullough}, who had been seriously ill for the past two months passed away shortly afternoon, Friday, July 1, at the St. Frances hospital in Macomb at the age of 75 years, five months and 15 days.
   The Rev. Garfield Rodgers officiated at funeral services held Monday, July 4, at the Littleton Baptist church with interment in the Littleton cemetery.
    Mary Ellen McCullough, daughter of the late George and Margaret Ross Pridmore, was born near Rushville, January 16, 1874. When she was a small child she moved with her parents to the Doddsville community, where she lived until she was nearly grown, then moved to Littleton, where she lived almost 60 years.
   She was united in marriage on May 22, 1895, to Lewis McCullough who survives with the following children, Raleigh of Macomb, Paul and Clifford of Littleton, Lloyd of Rockford, and Laverne of Rushville. One son, Lawrence, and a daughter, Ida, are deceased. There are two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
   She also leaves a brother George Pridmore of Vandalia and two sisters, Mrs. Bessie Wheelhouse of Mt. Camel and Mrs. George Dean of Littleton. One sister, Mrs. Eleming {Fleming} Horney, is deceased.
   Mrs. McCullough has been a member of the Littleton Baptist church for the past 35 years.
Obituary for Louise Nelda Way McCurdy
Rushville Times, March 21, 2001, page 15, column 3
Louise McCurdy
  Mrs. Louise Nelda McCurdy, 92, of Vermont, died Thursday, March 15, 2001, at the Wesley Village Healthcare Center in Macomb.
  She was born Nov. 21, 1908, in Knox County, the daughter of Henry and Annie Manley Way.  She married Harold White McCurdy on Sept. 20, 1927, in Galesburg.  He died Oct. 1, 1964.
  She is survived by one son, Harold (wife, Helen) McCurdy of Vermont; three grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lucille Dowell of Avon and Wanda Smith of Canton.
  She was preceded in death by three brothers, Rolland, Forrest, and George.
  She was a 50-year member of the Vermont Order of the Eastern Star where she served as Worthy Matron many times.  She was retired from the Vermont Foundry.
  Funeral services were Sunday at the Vermont United Methodist Church with Rev. Jerry Sawyer officiating and burial was in the Vermont Cemetery.
  Kost Memorial Home of Vermont was in charge of services.
  Memorials may be made to the Vermont United Methodist Church or Vermont Rescue Squad.
Obituary for Jay Bennett McDonald
Macomb Daily Journal, June 5, 1931
Drowned in gravel pit in Gibson City, IL.
  Former Adair boy drowns in pond.  Bennett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Manford McDonald of Gibson City, Illinois was drowned yesterday in a gravel pit according to word received by Mr. McDonald's sister, Nora Danner of Adair.  Mr. and Mrs. McDonald are former residents of Adair.  The lad was drowned while swimming.  No other particulars were learned.
  Funeral services will be held in Adair Sunday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock, at the United Brethren Church.  Internment in Astoria Cemetery.
  Note:  The second line should be Mrs. McDonald's sister, Mrs. Noah Danner, Inez Danner and Amanda Schisler McDonald and Mrs. Manford were sisters.  Also, he was buried in the South Fulton Cemetery South of Astoria, not the Astoria Cemetery.  He died June 4, 1931.
Obituary for Manford "Doc" McDonald
Born: August 13, 1882, Died: September 10, 1980
Macomb Daily Journal
  Astoria - Manford "Doc" McDonald, 98, formerly of Astoria, died at 8:50 p.m. Wednesday at Clarytona Manor Nursing Home in Lewistown.
  Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria, Charles Leib officiating.  Burial will be in South Fulton Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to services.
  Mr. McDonald was born Aug. 13, 1882, in Adair, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Perry McDonald.  He was a retired carpenter.  He married Amanda S. Schisler on December 23, 1903.  She died May 2, 1966.
  Surviving are one son, Floyd of Bloomington; seven grandchildren, eight great grandchildren; and seven great great grandchildren.
  He was preceded in death by two sons and several brothers.
Funeral for Martha "Mary" Litchfield Switzer McDonald
Rushville Times, February 5, 1920
  Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Venters, Mrs. Ed McLaren and Mrs. Homer Beam went to Adair last Thursday to attend the funeral of their aunt, Mrs. Mary McDonald.
  Note: Mrs. Mary McDonald is Martha Litchfield, born February 20, 1845, died January 25, 1920, daughter of James Litchfield and Jane (Sarah) Livingston.  She 1st married on June 17, 1866 Fulton County, Illinois to John A. Switzer, died December 24, 1868 Astoria, Fulton County, Illinois, buried Astoria Cemetery, Astoria, Fulton County, Illinois. She married 2nd on October 07, 1875 McDonough County, Illinois to Commodore Perry McDonald.  Commodore Perry McDonald and Martha "Mary" are buried in Baker Cemetery, Farmers Township, Fulton County, Illinois.
Obituary for Ray "Eldon" Eldon McDonald
Macomb Daily Journal, September 7, 1974
Eldon McDonald of Summum Dies
  Funeral services for Ray Eldon McDonald, 67, of Summum will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday at the Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria, followed by burial in the Summum cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home Saturday evening.
  Mr. McDonald was born October 4, 1906 at Adair, the son of Manford and Amanda S. Schisler McDonald.  He married Essie Lawver {Lawyer}on January 29, 1927.  She survives.
In addition to his widow and father, Mr. McDonald is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Twila E. Pelton of Watauga; one grandson and one brother, Floyd McDonald of Bloomington.

Ray Eldon McDonald Dies
  Mr. Ray Eldon McDonald of Summon was buried in the Summon Cemetery following funeral services at 2:00 p.m. September 9, 1974, at the Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria.  Mr. McDonald was born on October 4, 1906 at Adair, the son of Manford and Amanda S. Schisler McDonald.  On January 29, 1927 he married Essie Lawyer who survives along with his father and one daughter, Mrs. Twila E. Pelton of Watauga, a brother Floyd of Bloomington and one grandson.
Martin McGinnis Death
Rushville Times, July 12, 1917
Drowned in Crooked Creek - Martin McGinnis, Aged Nineteen, Drowned Near Birmingham
  Martin McGinnis, a young man nineteen years of age, who lived with his uncle, Thos. Milby, between Augusta and Bowen, lost his life in the treacherous pools of Crooked creek below the dam at Birmingham last Saturday afternoon.
  Young McGinnis, with a party of young men and women had gone to the creek for an afternoon's holiday and outing. Not being able to swim McGinnis kept close to shore and was wading about on a sand bar, 200 years below the dam and about 20 feet from the south bank, when he got beyond his depth and sank to his death.
  Lewis R. Tobie, a Plymouth jeweler, was on the bank when he noticed him struggling in the water and started to his rescue. He waded in and plunged into deep water, which caused him to seek his own safety as he was not a strong swimmer. Returning to the bank he ran down the creek and entered again where he could grasp a willow, but was unable to reach the drowning man.
  Edward Phelps of Augusta was seventy-five yards up the creek when he heard the cry for help, and as his boat was an equal distance farther up stream he swam across the creek as the quickest way of making rescue. Young McGinnis was struggling in the water and when Mr. Phelps was within thirty feet of him he sank for the last time.
  Efforts to locate the body by diving proved fruitless and grappling hooks were improvised. After forty or fifty minutes of frenzied efforts the body was located in eight feet of water by Alfred Jones and Roland Stoner. An effort was made to restore life, but without success.
  Coroner Dr. Flemming of this city was notified late Saturday evening and went to Birmingham where an inquest was held Sunday morning.
  The following jury was empaneled: W. E. Stoner, foreman; Vilroy Cox, Albert Cox, Alfred Jones, Fred Markee, Herman Green.
  The verdict of the jury was that Martin McGinnis came to his death by accidental drowning.
Obituary for E. Janet McGovern
Rushville Times, December 29, 1999, page 11, column 4
Janet McGovern
  E. Janet McGovern, 76, of Beardstown, formerly of Rushville, died Monday, Dec. 27, 1999, at the Heritage Manor East Nursing Home in Beardstown.
  She was born Nov. 14, 1928, in Rushville, the daughter of Leo and Cornelia Snyder McGovern.
  She was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Jimmy Lee Landers, and one brother, Bobby McGovern.
  She is survived by several cousins.
  She was employed as an inspector for Olin Corporation in Alton for 29 years, retiring in 1972.
  Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville with the Rev. Rick Colbert officiating. Burial will be in the Rushville City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Cass-Schuyler Area Hospice.
Obituary for Edgar "Ed" McLaren
died: March 06, 1963
Edgar "Ed" McLaren Dies at Age 89
  Edgar McLaren, 89, lifelong resident of the Bader area, died shortly after noon Wednesday, March 6, in the Schmitt Memorial Hospital in Beardstown following a lengthy illness.
  Mr. McLaren was born Nov. 12, 1873 at Bader a son of Robert and Julia Fowler McLaren.  He was married to Laura Beam on May 15, 1900.  She survives.
  Also surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Ruth Hoke and Mrs. Hildreth Cassel, both of Bader; one son, Merle McLaren of Westmont; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren, and one sister, Mrs. Ethel Hartsock of Los Angeles, Calif.
  Funeral services were held Saturday at 2 p.m. in the Shawgo Memorial Home with Laurence Royer officiating.  Burial was in the Bader Cemetery.
  He was a member of the Bader Christian Church.
Obituary for Laura Jane Beam McLaren
   Death has struck in this community again, with the passing of one of our oldest residents, Mrs. Laura McLaren, on Saturday at the Schmitt Memorial hospital in Beardstown.  She was taken there by ambulance on Saturday and passed away at three o'clock.  She had been very poorly for several years, failing faster since the death of her husband, Ed, in 1963.
  She had resided on the farm just east of Bader since the time of her marriage to Ed.  She has been quite a care for her family who were faithful in their devotion to her at all times.  Her funeral was held on Tuesday at the Shawgo Memorial home in Astoria with Bro. Laurence Royer officiating.
  The interment was in the Bader cemetery.  Mr. and Mrs. Merle McLaren of Westmont came Saturday to remain until after the funeral at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Hoke.  On Monday evening they spent some time at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Winston of near Astoria.  Laura was over 90 years of age.
  She leaves to mourn her passing, three children:  Merle of Westmont, Ruth Hoke of near Bader; seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren; besides one brother, Homer Beam; and two sisters, Mrs. Florence Venters of Carlinville and Mrs. Ida Venters of Virden.  Our deepest sympathy is extended to both the McLaren relatives.
  Note: The date isn't given, but she died January 16, 1964.  Also daughter, Hildreth McLaren Cassel isn't mentioned by name.
Obituary of Lawrence Warren McMillan
died: November 10, 1956
 Rushville Times, November 15, 1956
Lawrence W. McMillan, 59, Dies; Rites in Industry
  Lawrence Warren McMillan, 59, died Friday morning at the Mercy hospital in Burlington, Ia.  He had been in ill health three months and had suffered a number of strokes.  He entered the hospital Nov. 1.  Since July he had lived in Burlington with a son.
  Funeral services were conducted at the Clugston funeral home in Industry Sunday at 2 p. m. by the Rev. Fred Norman.  Burial was in the Industry cemetery.
  Mr. McMillan was born March 3, 1897, in Schuyler county, a son of Cyrus and Myrtle Fry McMillan, deceased.  He lived in Schuyler and McDonough counties most of his life.  In 1943 he moved to Macomb, lived there three years, then lived in Peoria 10 years before going to Burlington.  He was a painter and was a member of the Methodist church.
  On Aug. 1, 1917 he married Beulah Ingles, who survives with six children, Berthol McMillan and Mrs. Nedra Ellis of Littleton, Bob McMillan and Gene McMillan of Burlington, Dean McMillan of Macomb and Jimmy McMillan of Decatur.  A brother, Danny Wayne McMillan of Macomb, Mrs. Thelma Rutledge of Good Hope, Mrs. Nellie DeWeese, of Bushnell, Mrs. Iris Clugston of Colchester and Mrs. Cleo McKamy, of Macomb, also survive.
Obituary for Mildred Lamm McMullen
Rushville Times, March 21, 2001, page 15, column 5
Mildred McMullen
  Memorial services for Mildred McMullen, 92, of East Moline, were Monday at the First Presbyterian Church of East Moline.  Private inurement was held in Greenview Memorial Gardens, East Moline.  A memorial visitation was held Sunday at Van Hoe Funeral Home in East Moline.
  Mrs. McMullen died Friday, March 16, 2001, at Illini Hospital in Silvis.
  Her body will be cremated.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, Illini Restorative Care of Silvis or to the American Cancer Society.
  She was born March 16, 1909, in Canton, the oldest of 13 children of John and Myrtle (Cook) Lamm.  She married Wayne McMullen, Jan. 12, 1929, in Lewistown.  He died April 7, 1989.
  Survivors include a daughter; Linda Mullen of Davenport, Iowa, a son, Larry McMullen of Dubuque, Iowa; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; three sisters, Doris Smith of Marseilles, Evelyn Hallesey of Macomb, and Phyllis Shales of Conifer, Colo., and one brother, Leo Lamm of Galesburg.
  She was preceded in death by her husband, and a son, Paul McMullen, who died Oct. 17, 1995.
Obituary for Joanne Murphy Feaster McQueen
Rushville Times, March 7, 2001, page 13, column 4
  Joanne McQueen, 66, of Rushville, died Monday, March 5, 2001, at her home.
  She was born July 28, 1934, in Canton, the daughter of the late Raymond and Lois (Hurst) Murphy. She married Joe McQueen on April 19, 1979, in Pekin. He survives.
  Also surviving are one son, David Feaster of LaGrange, Mo.; three daughters, Diane Hofmann of Indiana Shores, Fla., Dana Weckler of Soldotna, Alaska, and Linda Belvito of Seattle, Wash.; one step-son, Steve McQueen (wife Trina) of Tolono; two step-daughters, Debbie Hole of Phoenix and Lauri McQueen of Peters Creek, Alaska; 13 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one brother, John Murphy (wife Judy) of Manito.
  She was preceded in death by one brother, Richard Murphy, and one sister, Patricia Davis.
  She was a cook at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul and also worked as a clerk in various craft stores. She was a charter member of the Women of the Moose No. 2714 in Rushville. She enjoyed sewing and making crafts.
  Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at Wood-Roby Funeral Chapel in Rushville with Rev. Roger Simpson officiating. Burial will follow in the Rushville City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the Wood-Roby Funeral Chapel. Memorials may be given to the Cass-Schuyler Area Hospice.
Obituary for Alice Houston McWhinney
Rushville Times, Wednesday, Oct. 20, 1999, page 15, column 1
Alice McWhinney
  Alice Houston McWhinney, 103, of Denver, Colo., formerly of Rushville, died Dec. 10, 1998, in Denver.
   Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.rn. Wednesday, Oct. 27, 1999, at the Sugar Grove North Cemetery north of Rushville with Father Lewis A. Payne of St. Clare's Episcopal Mission, Rushville, officiating.  Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville is in charge of arrangements.
  She was born Oct. 16, 1895, in Kansas City, Mo., to the late William Rodney and Madeline Peironett Barse Houston.  She married Leroy McWhinney Oct. 16, 1920, in Kansas City.  He preceded her in death.
  She was a member of the Denver Country Club and the Garden Club of Denver and America.
  She is survived by four daughters, Madeline Dale of Red Bank, N.J., Cope Craven of Poughkeepsie, NY, Ann Watson of Denver, Colo., and Susan McWhinney-Morse of Boston, Mass.; two sons, William of Venice, Calif., and Rodney of Santa Fe, N.M.; 19 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
  She was preceded in death by one son, Leroy McWhinney, Jr.
Obituary for Floyd Melvin
Rushville Times, April 19, 2000, page 15, column 1
Floyd Melvin
  Floyd Melvin, 83, of Augusta, died Monday, April 10, 2000, at Golden Good Shepherd Home in Golden.
  He was born June 7, 1916, to William John "Jay" and Anna Gertrude (Hale) Melvin.  He married Doris Dean McGinnis on Feb. 6, 1936, in Huntsville.  She died on Sept. 13, 1992.
  He is survived by one son, Gary (wife Kay) Melvin of Augusta; one daughter Mrs. Harold (June) Sizek of Astoria; two grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
  He was a 1933 graduate of Augusta High School.  He was a retired farmer and carpenter.  He was a member of the Huntsville United Methodist Church.  He was a member and Past Master of Huntsville Lodge #465 AF & AM.
  Services were Wednesday, April 12, at Huntsville United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kathleen Hughes officiating.  Burial was in Forest Lawn Memory Garden in Macomb.  Hamilton Funeral Home in Augusta was in charge of services.  Huntsville Lodge #465 conducted Masonic Rites at the funeral home.
  Memorials may be made to the Southeastern High School baseball program or Huntsville United Methodist Church.
Obituary for Frank "Cowboy" E. Melvin
Rushville Times, Oct. 20, 1999, page 15, column 4
Frank E. Melvin
  Frank E. Melvin, 59, of Rushville, died Thursday, Oct. 14, 1999, at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.
  He was born Dec. 29, 1939, in Macomb, the son of Gaylord and M. Eloise (Gillette) Melvin.  He married Carol Holeman on April 14, 1989, in Hannibal, Mo.  She survives.
  Also surviving are his mother of Rushville; three sons, Jodie of LaRose, Roger of Lewistown, and Troy Lee of Pekin; two step-sons, Mark Perkins of Pekin and Dana Perkins (wife Cheryl) of Eden, N.C.; five step-daughters, Mrs. Ralph (Debra) Smith of Eden, N.C., Mrs. Ron (Sherri) Summers of Quincy; Sandy Owsley of Quincy; Kristi Perkins-Strieker (husband Don) of Quincy and Kim Perkins of Quincy; four grandchildren; several step-grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; several step-great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Bonnie Doty, Mrs. John (Gayleen) Hammond and Lyn Flowers, all of Rushville.
  He was preceded in death by his father.
  He was a lifetime truck driver, driving for various companies, including Trinity, Rushville Truck Lines, and Hood Transportation, last working in March 1999.  He was a member of the Rushville Moose Lodge 506 and was well-known by his CB handle of "Cowboy".
  Funeral services were held Monday at the Wood-Roby Funeral Chapel in Rushville with Patrick Clements officiating.  A convoy of semi tractors led the procession to the burial at Ebenezer Cemetery south of Rushville.
  Memorials may be given to the Melvin family.
Obituary for Betty Jane Esslinger Menely
died October 18, 1963
Rushville Times, October 24, 1963
Mrs. Floyd Menely Dies Here Last Friday
  Mrs. Betty Jane Menely, wife of Floyd Menely died Friday morning at Culbertson Memorial Hospital where she had been a patient for the past four weeks. Funeral services in charge of the Worthington Funeral home were held Sunday afternoon at two o'clock at the First United Presbyterian church, the Rev. Thomas D. Brown of Springfield officiating. Burial was in the Rushville cemetery. She was born Oct. 21, 1927 in Rushville, a daughter of Ora and Cora R. (Roudebush) Esslinger.
  She attended Rushville schools and was a member of the Rushville Presbyterian church. She was married to Floyd Menely, who survives. Also surviving are two children, Dwight and Marilyn, at home; her mother, Mrs. Cora Esslinger of Bowen; four sisters, Mrs. Francis Derry of Quincy, Mrs. Marjorie Kreutter of Minnesota, Mrs. Florence Friend of Chicago, Mrs. Della Schwanbec of Michigan; four brothers, Ben and Clinton, both of Bowen, Robert of Chicago and Charles of Viola. She was preceded in death by her father and one sister.
Obituary for Carl Thomas Menely
died: November 15, 1980
Carl T. Menely Rites Held in Schaumberg
  Relatives and friends have received word of the passing of Carl T. Menely of Powers Lake, Wis. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Nov. 18 at Ahlgrim in Schaumburg. Carl was born and raised in Rushville and graduated from the Rushville high school with the class of 1932.
  He was born Jan. 7, 1914, the son of Grace and Harry Menely and after graduation he moved to Chicago and married Audrey Peil of that city. They have one son, Ronald and two grandsons, Ronnie and Rickey of Hoffman Estates.
  Carl was the brother of Mrs. Bert (Mary) Hartman, Mrs. Pauline White, Mrs. Virginia Cady and Mrs. Noble (Mildred) Ford, all of Rushville, Harry of Berwick and Floyd of Beardstown. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive him.

Macomb Journal
  Carl T. Menely, 67, of Powers Lake, Wis., a former resident of Rushville, died Nov. 15. Services were held at 11 a.m. on Nov. 18 at the Ahlgrim and Sons Funeral Home in Schaumburg. Burial was in a cemetery at Forrest Park.
  Survivors include his wife, the former Audrey Peil, one son, Ronald of Hauffman Estates, two grandsons, three sisters, Mrs. Bert (Mary) Hartman, Mrs. Virginia Cady, and Mrs. Noble (Mildred) Ford all of Rushville, two brothers, Harry of Berwick, and Floyd of Beardstown, several nieces and nephews.
Obituary for Floyd Edward Menely
Rushville Times, Jan. 13, 1999
  Floyd E. Menely, 78, of Beardstown, died Wednesday, Jan. 6, 1999, at the Heritage Manor South Nursing Home in Beardstown.
  He was born March 26, 1920, in Rushville, to the late Harry and Grace Bradbury Menely.  He married Betty Jane Esslinger, Nov. 7, 1946, in Rushville.  She died Oct. 18, 1963.
  Surviving is one son, Dwight Menely (wife Mary) of Springfield; one daughter, Mrs. Wayne (Marilyn) Aden of Golden; three grandchildren; and his long time friend Virginia Thompson, of Beardstown.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Carl Menely and Harry Menely, and four sisters, Mary Hartman, Pauline White, Virginia Cady, and Mildred Ford.
  He was a typesetter and pressman at the Rushville Times Company and the Virginia Gazette before retiring.  He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Rushville; and was a former member of Schuyler American Legion Post #4 and Rushville Moose Lodge #506.  He was an army veteran of World War II.
  Funeral services were held Saturday at the Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville with Father Roger Simpson officiating.  Burial was in the Rushville City Cemetery where Military services were conducted by Schuyler American Legion Post #4.
  Memorials may be made to Cass-Schuyler Hospice.
Obituary for Lorinda "Rin" Jane VanOrder Mercer
Rushville Times, June 1, 1922
Death of Former Resident
  Mrs. Lorinda Mercer died Friday at her home in Vermont in her seventy-eighth year.
  Funeral services, conducted by Rev. Grove, of Vermont, were held on Sunday. Interment in the Vermont cemetery.
  The following obituary was read at the services:
  Lorinda Jane Vanorder  was born in Ithaca, N. Y., April  2, 1844, and died at her home in Vermont on May 25th, 1922, aged 78 years, 1 month and 23 days. She was married to George Mercer on Jan. 30, 1865, at Rushville. Four children, Robert of Macomb; Charles, who died in infancy; Mrs. Pearl Dawson, of Macomb, and Mrs. Elizabeth Williams of Vermont, were born to this union.
  She joined the M. E. church of Rushville in 1896, but later transferred her membership to Vermont.
  She also leaves  to mourn her death ten grandchildren and an only brother, A. J. Vanorder, of Rushville, to mourn  the loss of an ever-ready, sympathetic mother and sister.
Obituary for Neva Mercer
Rushville Times, January 17, 2001, page 13, column 3
Neva Mercer
  Miss Neva Mercer, 99, of Vermont, died Friday Jan. 12, 2001, at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.
  She was born April 11, 1901, in Fulton County, the daughter of Charles and Harriet Cash Mercer.
  She is survived by numerous cousins.
  She was preceded in death by two sisters, Leska Mercer and Margaret Palmer.
  She was a teacher and taught in Vermont and Oak Park.
  Cremation rites have been accorded by Kost Memorial Home in Vermont, and graveside services were Tuesday at the Vermont Cemetery with Rev. Tim Gilliland officiating.
  Memorials may be made to the Vermont Library or to the charity of the donor's choice.
Obituary of Karen Merideth
Rushville Times, November 8, 2000, page 13, column 4
  Karen Kay Merideth, daughter of Donald and Dorothy Meredith, born Jan. 15, 1952, died Oct. 29, 2000, at her home in Murray, Ky., after a five year struggle with cancer.
  She is survived by one son, one daughter, and one granddaughter of St. Charles, Mo.; her parents, Donald and Dorothy Merideth, and sister Donna, of Mission, Texas.
  Services were held Friday, Nov. 4 in Murray, Ky.
  She is the niece of Wanda Beckerdite.
Obituary for Elizabeth Marshall Merrill
  Elizabeth (Marshall) Merrill was born in Jefferson Co., Ohio, Dec. 16, 1807, and died at her home near Astoria, Ill., Dec. 20, 1893, being ripe in years and good works. She was married to Stephen Merrill, Nov. 11, 1835 {1825?}, with whom she lived happily for fifty-five years, when the golden-winged messenger called the husband to the better home. The above union was blessed with seven daughters and one son. Three daughters preceded their parents to heaven. The three {four} remaining daughters and the only son are on the way, all being active Christians. Mother Merrill joined the Presbyterian Church at Astoria in 1854, and remained a faithful member until death. The funeral was conducted at the United Brethren Church, of which her son and one daughter are worthy members, as was also Father Merrill to the time of his death.
  D. E. Baer
  Note: found in a scrapbook in Roswell, New Mexico by Nancy Harvey while going though her mother's things after her death. "The scrapbook is one which my great grandmother, Amanda Bryan Wetzel, or perhaps my grandmother, Nettie Wetzel Dean, pasted lots of obituaries of family and friends. These families were from around McDonough, Fulton and Schuyler Counties. These obits are probably around a hundred years old or may be more."
Obituary for Stephen S. Merrill
  Stephen S. Merrill was born at Kennebunk Port, Maine, and died near Astoria, Illinois, May 8, 1890, aged 91 years, 10 months, and 14 days. He was married to Elizabeth Marshall in 1825. To them were born eight children, five of whom are still living. He was a good citizen and a devoted Christian, and will be greatly missed in the home, the community, and the Church. He joined the untied Brethren Church in 1863. He attended Sunday school in Astoria as early as 1853, and was a faithful and active member of the same the remainder of his life. He was a liberal supporter of church interests. He paid one hundred dollars each year to the foreign mission-work.
  E. H. Shuey
  Note: found in a scrapbook in Roswell, New Mexico by Nancy Harvey while going though her mother's things after her death. "The scrapbook is one which my great grandmother, Amanda Bryan Wetzel, or perhaps my grandmother, Nettie Wetzel Dean, pasted lots of obituaries of family and friends. These families were from around McDonough, Fulton and Schuyler Counties. These obits are probably around a hundred years old or may be more."
Death Notice for James Merritt
Rushville Times, July, 1917
  James Merritt died very suddenly Saturday evening at the home of Lawrence Buss, three miles south of here. He shocked oats all day and had gone to the house for supper when he was stricken and in a few minutes life was extinct. He has worked for the farmers in this vicinity for a number of years. Funeral services were conducted Monday by Rev. Lathrop at the Buss home, after which the remains were taken to Pulaski for burial.

Death Notices for James Merritt and Jonnie Boyd
Rushville Times, July 19, 1917
James Merritt Dies of Apoplexy - Boy Drowns in Illinois River
  Dr. Flemming, county coroner, held three inquests within seven days which is an unusual record in this office.
  On Tuesday of last week, Jonnie Boyd, the 4-year old son of Mrs. Wm. Boyd of Sharp's Landing, Hickory township, was drowned in the Illinois river.
  Saturday evening James Merritt, aged fifty-four years, dropped dead at the home of Lawrence Buss, where he was employed as laborer on the farm.
Boats Colide in River
  The Boyd boy lost his life when a row boat, in which he was riding, collided with Lane Bros. launch of Browning in the Illinois river. The accident happened near Sharp's Landing on Tuesday morning of last week. John Groves, Jonnie Boyd and his sister, aged seven years, were in the row boat and when it struck the launch the Boyd boy was thrown out. An attempt was made at rescue, but he sank before he could be reached. The Groves boy, who was rowing the boat, was nine or ten years old.
  Search for the body was begun at once and a large force of men were engaged dragging the river. On Thursday morning the little body was found floating in the river about three miles below where the accident happened.
  Dr. Flemming was notified and went to Hickory township, where an inquest was held Thursday evening. Those on the coroner's jury were: Cline Horton, Albert Sackman, David Painter, Henry Lane, Frank Groves, Theo. Hodges. A verdict of accidental drowning was rendered.
James Merritt Died Suddenly
  James Merritt, aged fifty-four years, died suddenly Saturday evening about 7 o'clock at the home of Lawrence Buss in Camden township, where he was employed as farm laborer.
  Evidence given at the coroner's inquest indicated death was due to apoplexy and a verdict was so rendered.
  On the evening of his death Mr. Merritt accompanied Mr. Buss to the farm of his brother, Patrick Buss, and drove some hogs home. Soon after he returned he was taken suddenly ill and fell in a faint. He was taken to the house by Mr. and Mrs. Buss and a physician summoned, but died before medical aid could be given. 
  The following coroner's jury was impaneled: Jesse Jacobs, W. H. Fahnestock, M. G. Tipton, R. L. Ingles, JohnTwiddell, M. H. Twiddell. Their verdict was that James Merritt came to his death from apoplexy.
Obituary for Frances M. Humes Mesick
Rushville Times, July 26, 2000, page 13, column 2
Frances Mesick
  Frances M. Mesick, 68, of Colchester died Wednesday, July 19, 2000, at her home.
  She was born Oct. 28, 1931, in Colchester, the daughter of Merle and Mabel Bennett Humes.  She married William S. Mesick on Jan. 27, 1962, in Colchester.  He died Feb. 8, 1999.
  She is survived by two sons, William Charles Mesick and David Alan Mesick, both of Colchester; one step-daughter, Mrs. Darwin (Belinda) Utter of Rushville; 14 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; one brother, Gerald Humes of Colchester; two sisters, Donna Coghill of Colchester and Rachel Creasy of Macomb.
  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister, Betty Satore, and one brother, Zanel Humes.
  She had worked at Ford Hopkins Drug Store in Macomb, The Colchester Maid- Rite, Denny Red Fox Grocery in Colchester, and was a telephone switchboard operator for the Farmers Telephone Co. of Colchester.
  She was a member of the Colchester United Methodist Church.
  Services were Friday, July 21, 2000, at Jones Mortuary in Colchester with Rev. Mark Wolford officiating.  Burial was at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Colchester.
  Memorials may be made to McDonough District Hospital Hospice or Colchester High School boys baseball and basketball.
Obituary for Matthew Robert Meyer
Rushville Times, Oct. 13, 1999, page 9A, column 5
Matthew Meyer
  Graveside services for Matthew Robert Meyer, 17, of Beardstown, who was pronounced dead at 2:45 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, 1999, at the scene of an automobile accident, were held Tuesday at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery near Beardstown.  The Rev. Richard Bremer officiated.  Sager Funeral Home was in charge of services.
  He died from injuries sustained in a single-car accident on Illinois Route 125 near Virginia.
  He was born Dec. 29, 1981, in Jacksonville to Michael "Wally" and Melissa "Missy" Dodds Meyer.
  Surviving are his parents of Beardstown; paternal grandmother, Virginia Meyer of Beardstown; maternal grandparents, Juanita and Gary Noe of Beardstown and Gerald Dodds of Frederick; maternal greatgrandparents, William and Rosalee Armel of Quincy; one brother, Jason of Beardstown; and one sister, Paige Meyer, at home.
  Preceding him in death were his paternal grandfather and paternal great-grandparents.
  He was a senior at Beardstown High School, where he was active in Future Farmers of America and pitched for the baseball team.
  He farmed with his father and Butch Hobrock Farms of Beardstown.
  He was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church in Beardstown, where he was confirmed.
  Memorials may be made to the Beardstown United Way or the Beardstown Baseball Association.
Obituary for Minnie "Gertrude" Gertrude Edwards VanMeter Meyer
died Nov. 1, 1967
Rites for Gertrude Meyer Will be Held Friday
  Mrs. Gertrude Meyer, 58, passed away Wednesday morning at Culbertson Memorial hospital, where she had been a patient for two months.
  She was born December 22, 1908, at Pleasant View, daughter of Fred and Sarah Trone Edwards.  Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Betty Alters of Morton, and Mrs. Jane Lashbrook of this city; her mother, Mrs. Sarah Edwards; three brothers, Morris, Fred and William of this city and Horace of Peoria and six grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil Meyer, her father, Fred Edwards and one brother, George Edwards.  For the past 10 years she has owned and operated My Fair Lady Beauty shop.
  Funeral services will be held Friday at 2 p.m. at the Worthington Funeral home with burial in Rushville city cemetery.
  Family will meet with friends from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday evening at the Worthington Funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer society.
Obituary for Rodney "Little Shanty" Meyer
Rushville Times, January 9, 2002, page 13, column 5
Rodney Meyer
  Rodney "Little Shanty" Meyer, 55, of Rushville, formerly of Beardstown, died Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2002, at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.
  Born Sept. 15, 1946, in Beardstown to Lloyd and Elizabeth Frank Meyer, he married Susie Meazell on Sept. 17, 1982, in Beardstown.  She survives.
  Also surviving is his stepmother, Norma Meyer, of Beardstown; three sons, George (wife Kelly) Large of Chandlerville, Terrance Large (companion Ginny Berry) of Rushville and Danny (wife Nancy) Large of Rogers, Ark.; two daughters, Veronica (husband James) Shaw of Littleton and Shelly Rankin (companion Mike Chilton) of Rushville; 12 grandchildren; three brothers, Donnie Meyer of Beardstown, Clifford Meyer of North Carolina, and Gene Avery of Waterman; two sisters, Sharon Anes of Florida and Diane Meyer of North Carolina; two aunts; one uncle; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
  He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, John Meyer and Lloyd Meyer.
  He attended school in Beardstown.  He was formerly employed in sanitation with the City of Beardstown.
  Services were held Saturday, Jan. 6 at Sager Funeral Home in Beardstown. Burial was in the Beardstown City Cemetery.
Obituary for Dorothy June Aiken Meyers
Rushville Times, Oct. 6, 1999, page 15, column 3
Dorothy Meyers
  Dorothy June Meyers, 82, of Macomb, formerly of Mt. Sterling and Rushville, died Thursday, Sept. 23, 1999, at Wesley Village Health Care in Macomb.
  She was born June 1, 1917, in Pike County, a daughter of Monroe and Pearl Thompson Aiken.  She married Marian Meyers March 5, 1937.  He preceded her in death Feb. 20, 1983.
  Mrs. Meyers was a graduate of Versailles High School as well as beautician school.  She was a former member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Rushville.  She was a retired beautician and homemaker.
  She is survived by two sons, David A. (wife Victoria) Meyers of Charlotte, N.C., and Dr. Doug (wife Mitt) Meyers of Houston, Texas; one brother, Richard Aiken of Saucier, Miss.; one sister, Geneva Aiken of Mt. Sterling; and four grandchildren.
  Her parents, husband and one sister preceded her in death.
  Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 15, 1999, at The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Rushville by the Rev. Bill Brown.  Hufnagel Funeral Home in Mt. Sterling is in charge of services.
  Memorial contributions may be made to the Dorothy J. Meyers Memorial Fund of Wesley Village Health Care in Macomb.
Obituary for Peggy Irene Lanham Mikesell
Rushville Times, September 21, 1999
Peggy I. Lanham Mikesell
  Peggy I. Lanham Mikesell, 57, of South Elgin, formerly of Rushville, died Friday, Sept. 17, 1999, at Provena St. Joseph Hospital in Elgin.
  She was born Aug.18, 1942, in Macomb, to the late Leonard Lanham and Virginia Irene Armstrong Lanham Jones.  She marned William "Mike" Mikesell May 4, 1973, in Elgin.  He survives.
  Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. David (Judy) Ward and Mrs. Dick (Connie) Miller, both of Rushville, a half brother, Lee Lanham of Evergreen, Colo., a half sister, Mrs. Jim (Cheryl) Sutton of Aurora, Colo.; and several nieces and nephews.
  She was preceded in death by a half brother, Tim Lanham.
  A resident of South Elgin since 1974, she graduated from nurses training at the Memorial Medical Center in Springfield in 1963.  She also received an associate of science degree from Elgin Community College.  She was Public Service Administrator for the Elgin Mental Health Center.  Peggy was a lover of dogs.
  Funeral services were held Tuesday at the Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville with Rev. Scott Henley officiating.  Burial  was  in  the Rushville City Cemetery.
  Memorials may be given to the Anderson Animal Shelter, 1000 5 LaFox St., South Elgin, IL 60177.
Obituary for Gladys Tessa Jackson Milby
died: June 30, 1949
Rushville Times, July 7, 1949
Mrs. Curtis Milby Died At Hospital Thursday
  Mrs. Gladys Jackson Milby, 54, wife of Curtis Milby, died at 8:30 a.m. Thursday at Culbertson hospital. Mrs. Milby was admitted to the hospital Saturday night and had emergency abdominal surgery, from which she never rallied.
  Mrs. Milby was born in Rushville, the daughter of Leroy and Lizzie Green Jackson, on May 25, 1895. She is survived by her husband; a daughter, Mrs. Barbara Vick of Harrisburg; two aunts, Miss Rosa Jackson of Augusta and Mrs. Amanda Beaston Jackson of Centralia, MO. Three grandchildren, Ronnie, Susie, and Curtis LeRoy Vick also survivor.
  Funerals services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, at the Perry-Voorhees Memorial home, with the Rev. H. S. Farrill officiating. Burial will be in the Rushville cemetery.
Obituary for Delores A. Wilmot Miller
Rushville Times, December 6, 2000, page 15, column 5
Delores A. Miller
  Delores A. Miller, 71, of Pawnee, died Thursday, Nov. 23, 2000, at St. John's Hospice, in Springfield.
  She was born April 5, 1929, in Rushville, the daughter of James Wade and Mary Armel Wilmot.  She married Billy J. Miller in 1949 in Littleton.  She was preceded in death by a daughter, Maryln J. Jones.
  Mrs. Miller had worked at the A&P Grocery Store in Rushville and the Schuyler County sheriff's department.  She also had worked as a secretary for the Masonic Grand Lodge until her retirement in 1995.
  She was a member of the Pawnee United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Love Thy Neighbor Group, Home Extension, a charter member of Pawnee Lioness and Pawnee Chapter 436 OES.
  She is survived by her husband, Billy; two sons, Michael J. (wife, Betsy) Miller of Auburn, and Steven K. (wife, LuAnne) Miller of Pawnee; five grandchildren; two sisters, Ellen Mulligan of Beardstown and Sally Poltawsky of Rushville; a brother, James Wilmot of Beardstown, three nieces and a nephew.
  Services were at the Pawnee United Methodist Church, the Rev. Roger Russell officiating.  Burial was in Horse Creek Cemetery in Pawnee.
  Roarick-Davis Memorial Home in Pawnee was in charge of arrangements.
Obituary for DeWitt Carlyle Miller
  DeWitt Carlyle Miller, infant son of Rev. J. B. Miller, died at Astoria, Ill., September 27, 1894, aged 10 months and 4 days. Brother Miller and family had just moved to his new field of labor, Astoria Circuit, when this new sorrow came suddenly upon them. Little DeWitt had become a very interesting factor in the home; but "the king of shadows loves a shining mark," and he was taken. His parents are comforted in the thought that though he shall not return to them, they shall go to him.
  D. E. Baer
  Note: found in a scrapbook in Roswell, New Mexico by Nancy Harvey while going though her mother's things after her death. "The scrapbook is one which my great grandmother, Amanda Bryan Wetzel, or perhaps my grandmother, Nettie Wetzel Dean, pasted lots of obituaries of family and friends. These families were from around McDonough, Fulton and Schuyler Counties. These obits are probably around a hundred years old or may be more."
Obituary for John "Fred" Fred Miller
Macomb Journal, Nov 1960
  Fred Miller, 90, of RR 3, Colchester, a retired Bethel Township farmer died Wednesday evening at his home.
  Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Chapel of Jones Mortuary in Colchester. The Rev. Ray Nowlin will conduct the services and burial will be in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens.
  Mr. Miller was born March 27, 1870 in Bethel Township. His parents were Marvin and Sarah Shoopman Miller. He was a member of the Free Methodist Church. He married Loucretta Bisby Dec. 26, 1894. She is deceased.
  Surviving are four children, Hobart Miller of RR, Colchester, Mrs. Evelyn Ames of Denver, Colo., Mrs. Forrest Fitch of RR, Colchester and Mrs. Mabel Curtis of Macomb; one brother, Jesse Miller of Burrton, Kan.; nine grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. A daughter, Mrs. Inez Robinson, a sister, Mrs. Patience Dunsworth, and a brother, Henry Miller, are deceased.
  Friends may call at the funeral home and the family will meet with friends there Friday evening.
  Note: Loucetta Bisby married John Fred Miller 26 Dec 1894 McDonough Co., IL. John Fred Miller was born 27 Mar 1870 Bethel Twp., McDonough Co., IL. Died 2 Nov 1960 Colchester, McDonough Co., IL. Buried Forest Lawn Cemetery, McDonough Co., IL. They had the following children: Hobart H.;Inez; Evelyn; Mabel; Forrest Mildred.
Obituary for Loucetta "Lou" Bisby Miller
Macomb Journal, 10 Dec 1951
  Mrs. Loucetta Miller, wife of Fred Miller, died at the residence on Route three, Colchester, about 10:30 yesterday morning. She had been in ill health the past eight years and was 81 years old.
  Funeral services will be held at 2:00 Tuesday afternoon at the chapel of Jones mortuary in Colchester. The Rev. Ray Nowlin and the Rev. Ernest Louderman will officiate, and burial will be in Forest Lawn Memory Garden B.
  She was born at Astoria, Sept. 13, 1870, a daughter of Levi and Nancy Aten Bisby, and had lived in McDonough county since she was 11 years old. She was a member of the Free Methodist church.
  On Dec. 26, 1894 she married Fred Miller, who survived with a son and four daughters, Hobart Miller and Mrs. Forrest Heaton of Colchester, Mrs. Inez Robinson of Rushville, Mrs. Evelyn Ames of Denver, Colo., and Mrs. Mabel Curtis of Macomb. Also surviving are a brother, Will Bisby of Plymouth, a sister, Mrs. Alta Daniels of Colchester, nine grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
  The following sisters and brothers are deceased; Belle Bolen, Emma McCormick, Sarah France, Ella Adair, Etta LaPierre, Ross Bisby, and an infant sister.
  Friends may call at the funeral home.
  Note: Loucetta Bisby was born 13 Sep 1870 Astoria Twp., Fulton Co., IL. Died 9 Dec 1951 near Colchester, McDonough Co., IL. Buried Forest Lawn Cemetery, McDonough Co., IL. She married John Fred Miller 26 Dec 1894 McDonough Co., IL. John Fred Miller was born 27 Mar 1870 Bethel Twp., McDonough Co., IL. Died 2 Nov 1960 Colchester, McDonough Co., IL. Buried Forest Lawn Cemetery, McDonough Co., IL. They had the following children: Hobart H.; Inez; Evelyn; Mabel; Forrest Mildred.
Obituary for Anna A. Cassell Miller
Rushville Times, November 2, 1961
  Another of the pioneers of this community passed away Wednesday afternoon, namely, Mrs. Anna Miller, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Cecil Cable.
  Her husband preceded her in death in 1954, and she has spent the time since with her several children.
  She would have reached the age of 100 on Nov 6 if she had lived.
  Her husband, Jake as he was known, was 99 in February preceding his death.
  This couple started their married life on the farm which is now occupied by William Miller and wife. Jake's father, Andrew Miller and wife lived on the farm which is now owned by Willard France, just south of Astoria, when their children were growing up.
  She leaves her sorrowing children and a host of other relatives and friends to mourn her passing.
  Her funeral was held at the Mud Valley Church on Friday afternoon with the Elders Jesse and Morris Wagoner officiating. Her interment was made in the cemetery by the Mud Valley Church.
  Those from a distance who attended were the ministers, Mr. and Mrs. Lester Kinze, Mr. and Mrs. Will Peters, Mr. and Mrs. Andy Long, Mrs. Dorothy Cripe, Miss Flora Beekely, all of Indiana, Mr. and Mrs. George Wilson and Laura Smith of Pekin; Riley Florrey and Norman Florrey and wife all of Ohio; besides a host of other relatives and friends in this community and others in Illinois.
  Note: Anna is Anna A. Cassell, born November 06, 1861 Astoria, Fulton County, Illinois, died October 25, 1961, buried Mud Valley Old Order Church (Old Order) Cemetery, Browning Township, Schuyler County, Illinois, daughter of William Cassell I and Anna "Annie" Schisler.  Husband Jake is Jacob "Jake" D. Miller, born February 16, 1855, died April 07, 1954, buried Mud Valley Old Order Church (Old Order) Cemetery, Browning Township, Schuyler County, Illinois, son of Andrew Miller and Eliza Fahrney.  They married March 15, 1885 Astoria, Fulton County, Illinois.
Obituary for Opal G. Baumgartner Milleson
Rushville Times, January 10, 2001, page 13, column 3
  Opal G. Milleson, 98, of Winter Garden, Fla., formerly of Astoria, died Sunday, Dec. 31, 2000, at Quality Health Care Center in Winter Garden, Fla.
  She was born April 21, 1902, in Havana, the daughter of Hart and Carrie (Markley) Baumgartner. She married Walter Milleson on Feb. 5, 1927, in Havana. He died Dec. 20, 1976.
  She was also preceded in death by three sisters and one brother.
  Surviving are two daughters, Sue Ann Touchett of Lebanon, Ohio, and Barbara Roll of Clermont, Fla.; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Norene Derry of Peoria, Mrs. Robert (Emily) Curless of Astoria, and Wilma Weber of Cuba.
  She was a member of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Clermont, where she was a former assistant treasurer. She also was a member of the South Lake Hospital Auxiliary, the South Lake County Meals on Wheels and past president of the Emerald Lakes Women's Club. She had been an operator for Western Union.
  Services were held Saturday, Jan. 6, at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria with Rev. Gary Sheets officiating. Burial was in Summum Cemetery.
  Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army.
Obituary for Josephine Sarah Berg Mills
Rushville Times, October 18, 2000, page 15, column 4
Josephine Mills
  Josephine Sarah Mills, 94, of Rushville, died Sunday, Oct. 15, 2000, at the OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
  She was born July 20, 1906, in Claremont, to the late Arthur Washington and Mae Lydia Harmon Berg.  She married Theodore Roosevelt "Roosie" Mills May 9, 1925, at the Laurel Methodist Church in Springfield.  He died Oct. 25, 1971.
  Surviving are two sons, William T. Mills (wife Annette) of Peoria, and James B. Mills (wife Helen) of Tucson, Ariz.; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Frank Haynes of Modesto, Calif., and one sister, Betsy Templeton of Anacortes, Wash.
  She was preceded in death by a daughter, Sally Jo Barsi; and three sisters, Lela Loretta Burnside, Flora Aileen Bowers, and Helen Caroline Miller.
  She was a life long resident of Rushville, where she attended grade school and graduated from Rushville High School in 1924.  She was in the first class to attend all four years in that school.  All three of her children graduated from the same high school.  After graduation, she taught school in Ray for one year before marrying.  She and her husband lived briefly in Canton, Ohio, before returning to Rushville.  While her children were young, she was active in the PTO and community activities.  Josephine was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Rushville, where she served on the board for many years.
  Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the First United Methodist Church in Rushville with Rev. Scott Henley officiating.  Burial will be in the Rushville City Cemetery.  Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville is in charge of the services.
  Memorials may be given to the Sarah D. Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.
Obituary of Emery Alfred Mitchell
Avon Sentinel, Sept. 1924
Biographical Sketch (usually read at funeral)
  Emery Alfred Mitchell, son of Oliver and Carrier (Childs) Mitchell, was born east of Avon, Illinois, August 31, 1883, and has always resided in that locality.  He departed this life September 17, 1924, aged 41 years and 27 days.
  September 14, 1903, he was united in marriage to Miss Ada Pratt at Galesburg, Illinois.  To this union were born two children, Irene Mabel and Harold Alfred, both residing at home.  Besides his bereaved wife and children he is survived by his parents, three brothers and one sister, namely, Roy of Abingdon; Ira of Bushnell; Mrs. Clara Hendricks and Glenn at home.  One brother, Charles, departed this life in 1883.  He was a man of high character, possessing a home loving disposition, and has always lived an honorable life.  All who enjoyed his acquaintance recognized his worthy traits and regarded him with respect and esteem.  While he never united with any one church he usually attended the services of the United Brethren denomination.
  "Swift to its close, ebbs out life' little day,
  Earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away,
  Change and decay in all around I see.
  O, thou who changes not, abide with me."
  Funeral services were held at 2:30 o'clock Monday afternoon from the Methodist church in Avon, conducted by Rev. L. J. Sailer of Lewistown, assisted by the local pastor, Rev. E. B. Morton.
  The esteem in which Mr. Mitchell was held was fully attested by the large attendance of relatives and friends which taxed to the utmost the seating capacity of the church.  The members of the freshman and senior classes of the Avon Community High School of which the son and daughter respectively were members, attended the services in a body.  Rev. Sailor gave a comforting address from the test, "We brought nothing into this world and it is certain we can carry nothing out." - I. Tim. 6:7.  The singing was rendered by a quartet composed of Miss Lucretia Staggs, Mrs. Ella Mings, E Scott and George Baker, with Mrs. Ethel Nance presiding at the organ.  The selections were "Face to Face," "Jesus, Lover of My Soul," and "No Night There."  The floral tributes were many and beautiful.
  At the close of the services the remains were tenderly laid to rest in the Avon Cemetery.  The pallbearers were Leslie Clark, Wm. Mullen, James O'Donnell, W. F. Staggs, Ed Asquith and A. A. Polseb.
  We desire to express our thanks and appreciation to all our neighbors, friends and relative for their many acts of kindness and expressions of sympathy to us in the death of our beloved husband, father and brother.  Mrs. Emery Mitchell and Children, Father, Mother, Brothers and Sisters.

Avon Sentinel, Sept. 1924
Emery Mitchell meets terrible death; Body torn in two when both feet are caught while riding on a hayrack
  Emery A. Mitchell, who resides on the David Sebree farm, more commonly known as the Belding place, three and one half miles northeast of Avon, met a terrible death last Saturday morning.  Mr. Mitchell had gone over to the home of his neighbor, J. Leslie Clark, who resides on the Fennesy farm, to put up hay.  As they were starting for the field Mr. Clark and Mr. Mitchell were riding on an old-style hay rack, the former driving.  Mr. Mitchell's son, Harold, was driving another team following closely behind.  Mr. Mitchell was sitting astride one side of the hay rack with the left foot hanging outside and the right foot inside the rack.  In passing a corner in the lane Mr. Mitchell's left foot caught in a looped wire which had been used as a brace wire for the post and at the same time his right foot became fastened in the crossbar of the rack.  Mr. Mitchell called to Mr. Clark but before the team could be stopped the lower portion of his body was split open as high up as the lower ribs.  The accident happened at 8:20 and he lived until 9:55, being conscious almost up to the last moment.
  Mr. Clark summoned the neighbors and Dr. E. E. Davis and Dr. R. W. Harrod arrived as soon as possible, but they were powerless to do anything for the relief of the injured man.  Mr. Mitchell seemed to fully realize the seriousness of the injury and said to those about him, "I guess my days are numbered."  After his death, which occurred at the Clark home, the body was removed to his own home.
  This tragic death has cast a deep gloom in the community and the heartfelt sympathy of all goes out to the bereaved family in their great affliction.

Rushville Times, Oct. 2, 1924
Emory Mitchell Accident
  Emory Mitchell, aged thirty-six, a farmer, living near Avon, was literally pulled apart in an accident, last Thursday and died within an hour. His body was pulled apart at the middle of his chest. Mitchell was riding on the side of a hayrack, driven by Leslie Clark. As they passed a gate, Mitchell's right foot caught in it. He squirmed to break loose and his left leg caught in the hayrack. Before Clark knew what was happening and could stop the wagon Mitchell had been tortured in a manner comparable to that of the Spanish inquisition. He was still conscious when released, but died in his home a short time later.

Avon Sentinel, Sept. 1924
The Inquest
  The inquest, conducted by Deputy Coroner Geo. E. Simmons, was held at the home on Sunday afternoon.  The jury was composed of Frank Bottorff, foreman; W. E. Stevens, W. E. Fullerton, A. P. Hectorne, Ed Asquith and James O'Donnell.  The evidence of three witnesses was heard, J. Leslie Clark, Harold Mitchell and Dr. R. W. Harrod.  A verdict of accidental death was returned.
  A summary of Mr. Clark's evidence follows:
  Saturday morning, September 27, 1924, at about 8:20 o'clock, Mr. Mitchell, his son, Harold, and myself started from my house to gather a load of hay for Mr. Mitchell.  I was driving the team and Mr. Mitchell was riding on the hay rack with the left foot hanging outside and the right foot inside the rack.  In passing a corner in the lane, just south of my house, Mr. Mitchell's left foot caught in a looped wire, which had been a brace wire for the post, and his right foot caught in the crossbar of the rack.  The team was traveling at a fast walk.  I heard Mr. Mitchell hollow "Whoa" and stopped the team immediately.  Got down from wagon and released body from its position and with assistance of his son, removed it to the ground and laid it upon the grass.  Got some water and washed his face, but did not until later realize the extent of his injury.  Called for help from neighbors and summoned Dr. Davis and Dr. Harrod.  Mr. Mitchell lived until 9:55 a.m.
  The evidence of Harold Mitchell was substantially the same as that given by Mr. Clark, the only new point brought out being that he was driving a team following closely behind the wagon on which his father and Mr. Clark were riding.
  Dr. R. W. Harrod described in detail the nature of the injuries sustained by Mr. Mitchell and stated that death was caused from hemorrhage and shock.
Obituary for Hazel C. Derry Mitchell
Rushville Times, July 19, 2000, page 11, column 3
Hazel C. Mitchell
  Hazel C. Mitchell, 95, of Mt. Sterling, died Sunday morning, July 9, 2000, at the Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.
  She was born June 7, 1905, in Astoria, the daughter of James and Mabel Foster Derry.  She married Loa E. Mitchell and he preceded her in death Dec. 6, 1943.
  She is survived by three daughters, Clara (husband Ed) Kunkel of Mt. Sterling, Betty Root of Sacramento, Calif., and Wanda Busen of Mt. Sterling; 22 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Hildreth Powell of Astoria and Helen Snowden of Astoria; several nieces and nephews; and several cousins.
  She was preceded in death by one daughter, Erma Logsdon; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Herman and Herschel Derry.
  Mrs. Mitchell was a homemaker.  She was a former member of the Methodist Church in Astoria.  She enjoyed her grandchildren, flowers, birds, reading and crocheting.
  Graveside services were held July 11 at Astoria Cemetery in Astoria.  Hufnagel-Graham Funeral Home in Mt. Sterling was in charge of services.
  Memorials are suggested to the Brown County Public Library in Mt. Sterling.
Obituary for James E. Mitchell
Rushville Times, Oct. 13, 1999, page 9A, column 2
James Mitchell
  Services for James E. Mitchell, 82, of Mt. Sterling, were Monday at First Christian Church in Mt. Sterling. The Rev. Phoebe Blankenship and Dean Davis officiated. Burial was in Hersman Cemetery. Hufnagel Funeral Home was in charge of services.
  He died at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 6, 1999, at Mattoon Health Care in Mattoon from injuries suffered in a May 3 automobile accident in Morgan County.
  Born July 26, 1917 in Jacksonville, to Thomas and Estella Nulen Mitchell, he married Virginia E. Dyer on April 30, 1936, in Jacksonville. She died Aug. 1, 1992.
  Two grandchildren and 12 brothers and sisters also preceded him in death.
  Surviving are four sons, James (wife Beverly) of Quincy, Thomas (wife Barbara) of Effingham, Jerry (wife Janet) of Sterling, and Dennis (wife Cheryl) of Tuscaloosa, Ala., two daughters, Judy (husband Dean) Davis of Knoxville, Tenn., and Jan (husband Ross) Kelly of Mt. Sterling; 18 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
  He and his wife owned and operated the Mitchell Cafe in Mt. Sterling for 35 years. He also was Brown County Supervisor of Assessments before retiring.
  He formerly served as Brown County Treasurer, county probation officer and city treasurer for Mt. Sterling.
  He was a member and elder of the First Christian Church.
  He was a member of Harden Masonic Lodge 44, AF & AM, and Beardstown Elks Club. He also was a member of Rolling Greens Golf Course.
  He was a former member and present honorary member of Brown County Fair Board.
  Memorials may be made to his church or to the United Way of Brown County.
Obituary for William E. Mitchell
William E. Mitchell
  Died, Sunday May 21, at his home in this township of cancer of the stomach, Wm. E. Mitchell aged about 52 years. Comrade Mitchell was a member of Co. C. 3rd Ill. cavalry, and was a good soldier and citizen. A wife and two grown sons survive him.
  Note: found in a scrapbook in Roswell, New Mexico by Nancy Harvey while going though her mother's things after her death. "The scrapbook is one which my great grandmother, Amanda Bryan Wetzel, or perhaps my grandmother, Nettie Wetzel Dean, pasted lots of obituaries of family and friends. These families were from around McDonough, Fulton and Schuyler Counties. These obits are probably around a hundred years old or may be more."
  Note: born February 24, 1845 Schuyler County, Illinois, died: May 21, 1899, son of George W. Mitchell and Nancy Hollingsworth, married June 18, 1866 Schuyler County, Illinois to Arminda Sidella Tracy, daughter of Lyman Tracy and Anna "Ann" Carlock.  Arminda Sidella Tracy was first married October 23, 1857 Schuyler County, Illinois to David Jackson Settles, who died December 09, 1863.
Obituary for Clarence Burton Montgomery
    Note: Excerpts from Obit of former Schuyler Co. resident, Clarence Burton Montgomery. The original article is very long and includes much history of the newspaper business in International Falls, MN.
The Daily Journal, International Falls, Koochiching Co., MN, Saturday Evening, March 05, 1949
Montgomery Rites Are Set For Monday
  Border citizens will pay their final respects next Monday to C. B. Montgomery, 80, early-day newspaper publisher who in 1911 established the Daily Journal.
  Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. in Holy Trinity Episcopal church with Rev. F. W. Sherman officiating. Interment is to be at Forest Hill Cemetery. Friends may call at the Green mortuary chapel Sunday afternoon and evening, until noon Monday.
  The pioneer publisher and printer died Friday afternoon at his home, after four years of failing health. He retired from the newspaper business in September, 1929, after selling The Journal and Weekly Press to its present owners.
  Immediate survivors include his wife, the former Cora Herron, whom he married in Minneapolis Dec. 22, 1908; a daughter by a previous marriage, Mrs. Beulah Tell, Omaha, Nebr.; four brothers and two sisters. The brothers are William H., Sioux City, Ia.; Glen R., Cleveland, Ohio; Mark H., Long Beach, Calif.; and Major L. C. Montgomery, Palo Alto, Calif. The sisters are Mrs. Fannie McCreery and Miss Gertrude Montgomery both of Rushville, Ill.
  Born at Rushville, Ill., Aug. 4, 1868, of parents who moved up from Kentucky, Mr. Montgomery learned the printing trade from his father and gained experience in a number of shops in that state. His first publishing experience came at Ft. Madison, Iowa, where he conducted the Daily Plain Dealer for 14 years before the turn of the century. During that same period he acquired an interest in a daily and weekly newspaper at Camden, Ark. He retained ownership in these properties for a number of years after coming to International Falls...
Obituary for Gertrude Alice Montgomery
Rushville Times, August 6, 1959
Funeral Services Held Wednesday For Miss Gertrude Montgomery
  Miss Gertrude Montgomery, 92, who spent practically her whole life in Rushville, died Monday afternoon at the Hill nursing home in Rushville where she had resided for several months. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Worthington Funeral home with the Rev. LeRoy Cronkhite, pastor of the First Christian church, officiating and burial was in the Rushville cemetery.
  A daughter of Nathan S. and Mary Hampton Montgomery, she was born in Camp Point May 31, 1867 and was the oldest of a family of eight children. When a child she came with her family to Rushville where she attended the local schools. She was a member of the First Presbyterian church of Rushville and was a member of the choir for several years. For the past 30 years she made her home in Rushville with her sister, Mrs. Fannie McCreery.
  Miss Montgomery is survived by a sister, Mrs. Fannie McCreery of Rushville, and two brothers, William Montgomery of Sioux City IA., and Mark Montgomery of Long Beach, Calif., and a number of nieces and nephews. Another brother, Louis, preceded her in death by 19 days at Palo Alto, California.
Obituary for Mary Hampton Montgomery
Rushville Times, August 27, 1914
Mrs. Mary Montgomery
  Mrs. Mary Montgomery, wife of N. S. Montgomery, was born near Rushville, March 26, 1848 and passed away at her home, August 22.
  Mrs. Montgomery was a daughter of Thomas and Hannah Hampton and was born east of Rushville. Her only brother, William died in Chicago, February 1, 1887. Edwin Dyson, a half-brother on the only surviving member of the family.
  On June 21, 1866 she married N. S. Montgomery and soon after they removed to Camp Point, later returning to Rushville. To this union was born 10 children, 8 of whom survive. They are - Clarence C. and Mark Montgomery of International Falls, Minn., Glen R. of Cleveland, Ohio, William H. of Fairfield, IA., Louis of St. Louis, Mo., Mrs. C. M. Nelson of Ipava, Mrs. C*. M*. McCreery and Gertrude of this city.
  Early in life she became a member of the Presbyterian church in Rushville.
  Funeral services were held on Monday at 4 p.m. at the family residence, conducted by Rev. James Hardin Smith.
  Note: I believe these initials to be an error in transcription. All information at this time indicates that Fannie McCreery was married to Mr. "Roland" McCreery. Susan K. Rezek
Obituary for Nathan Stamper Montgomery
died: September 28, 1929
Rushville Times, October 2, 1929
N. S. Montgomery Died At His Home Saturday
  A stroke brought death to N. S. Montgomery Saturday evening at 8 o'clock at his home. He had spent almost his entire life of 85 years in this city.
  Funeral services conducted by Rev. Alexander McFerran were held at the home Tuesday morning at 11 o'clock. Of his 6 absent children Mark H. of Buhl, Minn. was the only one who could come following his father's death, the interment in the Rushville cemetery not being made until after his arrival.
  Nathan Stamper Montgomery, son of Clayton and Julia Montgomery was born March 10, 1844 on a farm south of Rushville. When he was 4 years old his father died and for a time his mother resided in Fulton County later returning to Rushville.
  On June 22, 1866 he was joined in marriage to Mary Hampton who preceded him in death 15 years ago. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery all of whom survive, Gertrude Alice, Clarence Burton of International Falls, Minn., William Hugh of Sioux City, Iowa; Mrs. Beulah Nelson of Ipava, Mrs. Frances McCreery of Rushville; Mark Hampton of Buhl, Minn., Glen R. of Cleveland, Ohio and Lieut. Lewis Clayton of San Diego, Calif.


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