Obituary page 68
Obituary of Nora Verna Walker Austin
Macomb paper, November 29, 1989
Nora Austin
  Rushville - Nora V. Austin, 87, of 406 McAllister Street, Rushville, died at 12:08 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28, 1989, at McDonough District Hospital.
  She was born Sept. 20, 1902 in Beardstown, a daughter of John and Joanna Chapman Walker.  She married Columbus Austin on Aug. 15, 1942 in P almyra, Mo.  He preceded her in death.
  She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Macomb.
  Survivors include one nephew, Clarence D. Willougby of Rockford. She was preceded in death by 12 brothers and sisters.
  Services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, at Roby Funeral Chapel in Rushville. Bishop George Fanstermacher will officiate with burial in the Sugar Grove North Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the Roby Chapel.
Obituary of Lois "Evelyn" Evelyn Bellomy Black Behrmann
State Journal-Register, Springfield, IL, May 2, 2002
Lois E. Behrmann
  SUN CITY, Calif. - Lois Evelyn Black Behrmann, 83, of Sun City, formerly of Rushville, died Dec. 4, 2001, in West Covina, Calif.
  She was born June 13, 1918, in McDonough County, the daughter of Leslie S. and Bessie Ambrosius Bellomy. She married Clyde Black in 1937 in Corning, Ark.; he preceded her in death. She married George Behrmann in 1971; he also preceded her in death.
  Mrs. Behrmann worked at Boehm's Meat Market in Rushville and was a member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Later she was a cosmetic specialist in Hawaii, a volunteer for the Chino Police Department, an employee at Menifee Valley Hospital in Sun City and a hospice volunteer.
  Survivors: a son, David Lee Black of Chino, Calif.; a daughter, Teresa Shaw of Walnut, Calif.; three grandchildren; and a great-grandson.
  Graveside services: 11 a.m. Saturday, Rushville City Cemetery, Dr. E. Ambrose Stump officiating.
  Wood-Roby Funeral Home in Rushville is in charge of arrangements.

Peoria Journal Star, May 2, 2002
Lois Black Behrmann
  RUSHVILLE - Lois Evelyn Black Behrmann, 83, of Sun City, Calif., formerly of Rushville, died Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2001, in West Covina, Calif.
  Born June 13, 1918, in McDonough County to Leslie S. and Bessie Ambrosius Bellomy, she married Clyde Black on March 22, 1937, in Corning, Ark. He preceded her in death.
  She later married George Behrmann on June 25, 1971. He preceded her in death.
  She also was preceded in death by one brother.
  Surviving are one son, David Black of Chino, Calif.; one daughter, Teresa Shaw of Walnut, Calif.; three grandchildren; and one great-grandson.
  While a resident of Rushville, she worked at Boehm's Meat Market. She later was a cosmetic specialist in Hawaii and also worked at Menifee Valley Hospital in Sun City.
  She was a Chino Police Department and a hospice volunteer.
  She was a member of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Rushville.
  Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Rushville City Cemetery. The Rev. Dr. E. Ambrose Stump will officiate. There will be no visitation. Arrangements are by Wood-Roby Funeral Chapel.
  Memorials may be made to the Arthritis Foundation.
Obituary of Glena L. Spillers Tomlinson
picture
Lincoln Dailey News
Glena Tomlinson
  RUSHVILLE - Glena L. Tomlinson, 76, of Rushville, died Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006, at 1:39 p.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, with her four children and other loved ones at her side. She was being treated for complications of pneumonia at the time of her death.
  Her funeral was at noon Tuesday at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Rushville, with the Rev. Ray Greenfield officiating. Visitation preceded the service.
  Burial is in Rushville City Cemetery.
  Wood Funeral Home handled arrangements.
  Mrs. Tomlinson began working as a customer assistant and dispatcher for General Telephone in Lincoln in 1973, then was transferred to Bloomington, where she retired in December 1991.
  She was born in rural Schuyler County to Virgil and Pearl Rittenhouse Spillers. She married Glen E. Thomlinson in 1948 in Rushville.
  Coming to be with her during recent weeks were her children, Connie Sue Nunn (and husband Tom) of Camarillo, Calif., Ginger Ellard (and husband John) of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Lyn Joy Mounce (and husband David) of Downs and Rodney Glen Tomlinson (and wife Janee) of Burbank, Calif.; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
  She was preceded in death by two brothers, Cecil Eugene Spillers and Clyde Russell Spillers, and a sister, Velma June Spillers Ashcraft.
  Her children loved to visit her in Rushville and see how much she enjoyed living there in her retirement, her active membership in the First Christian Church, and her large group of friends and activities.
  She enjoyed her childhood on the family farm near Mindale. In the tradition of the day in Schuyler County, she "came to town" to attend high school and resided with her grandmother Leona Rittenhouse. She graduated from Rushville High School in 1946. While she also graduated from cosmetology school after high school, her true joy came from her "career" as a gentle and loving mom.
  Her immediate and extended families join in mourning the loss but rejoice that her desire to be "at home in heaven" was granted when medical measures were no longer able to keep her here.
  Memorials may be given to the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Rushville.
  Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at woodfh@frontiernet.net.

The Quincy Herald Whig, Quincy, IL, February 15, 2006
  RUSHVILLE, Ill. - Glena L. Spillers Tomlinson, 76, of Rushville died Feb. 12, 2006 in Memorial Medical Center, Springfield. Services were to be at noon today in First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Rushville. Burial was to be in Rushville City Cemetery. The Wood Funeral Home, Rushville, is handling arrangements.
  Above 2 aritcles submitted by Ida Maack Recu

Peoria Journal Star, February 14, 2006, Page: B4
Glena Tomlinson
  RUSHVILLE - Glena L. Spillers Tomlinson, 76, of Rushville passed away at 1:39 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006, at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.
  Services will be at noon today at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Rushville, where visitation will be two hours before. Burial will be in Rushville City Cemetery. Wood Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

State Journal-Register, Springfield, IL, February 14, 2006, Page: 13
Glena L. Tomlinson
  RUSHVILLE - Glena L. Spillers Tomlinson, 76, of Rushville died Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006, at Memorial Medical Center of complications of pneumonia.
  She was born April 19, 1929, in rural Schuyler County, the daughter of Virgil and Pearl Rittenhouse Spillers. She married Glen E. Tomlinson in 1948 in Rushville.
  Mrs. Tomlinson graduated from Rushville High School in 1946 and cosmetology school. She was a customer assistant and dispatcher for General Telephone in Lincoln and Bloomington, retiring in 1991.
  Survivors: three daughters, Connie Sue (husband, Tom) Nunn of Camarillo, Calif., Ginger E. (husband, John) Ellard of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and Lyn Joy (husband, David) Mounce of Downs; son, Rodney Glen (wife, Janee) Tomlinson of Burbank, Calif.; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
  Services: noon today, First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, Rushville, the Rev. Ray Greenfield officiating. Interment: Rushville City Cemetery.
  Wood Funeral Home in Rushville is in charge of arrangements.
Death of Lt. Leonard Henry Davis II and Lt. George Phillip Turner
Canton Daily Ledger, Thursday, March 28, 1957
Two ANG Pilots Are Killed In Trivoli Plane Crash
Killed In Trivoli Crash; Lt. Leonard Davis Of Canton One of Victims; As Trainer 'Spins In'; Metamora Pilot Is Also Killed Instantly; Cause Undetermined
 Two Air National Guards pilots, one from Canton, the other from Metamora, were killed instantly Wednesday evening when their single engine training plane crashed in a wooded area about two miles north of Trivoli.
 The victims were Lt. Leonard H. Davis Jr., 21, of Canton, and Lt. George Phillip Turner, 24, of Metamora.
 Their T-28 training plane dived into a clearing about one fourth of a mile west of a gravel road and the farm of Albert Geyer.
 Lt. Davis is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Davis Sr., who formerly resided on the old road from Canton to Cuba, but who now live near Yates City. Lt. Turner is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Turner of Virginia.
 It was reported at the scene that the plane had successfully performed one steep left bank and was in the process of another when it went into a spin and crashed in a small clearing.
 A second plane in the training flight recorded the location and flashed  the signal to the tower of the Greater Peoria Airport, where the plane had taken off about an hour and one half previously.
 The bodies were removed through rough, hilly country on a flat -bed wagon drawn by a tractor. Air Force personnel at the scene refused to permit photographers to take pictures.
 The crash occurred about 6"30 p.m., but the bodies were not removed from the scene until shortly before 10 o'clock.
  About 1,000  Feet
  Lt. Col. Harold C. Norman, commanding officer of the 169th ANG Fighter Squadron, told The Canton Daily Ledger today that though the altitude of the plane before the crash is not known, it is believed it was flying at about 1,000 feet.
 The plane belonged to the 169th Fighter Squadron and was one of the 30 being used during a training period before the squadron begins using F-86D jets, F-51 "Mustangs" were used by the squadron until recently.
 Col. Norman said cause of the crash has not been determined and will not be announced until a thorough investigation has been completed.
 Lt. Davis recently completed a six-month period of Air Force flight instruction and joined the Peoria fighter squadron only about a month ago. He also had been flying jet planes from a Springfield airport.
 Lt. Turner served with the Air Force as a jet pilot prior to his discharge last August.
 It has not been determined which pilot was flying the plane when it crashed.
 One witness at the scene said the plane apparently "came straight down" as it landed in the clearing "without breaking a branch" from nearby trees.
  Lt. Davis
 Lt. Davis was born Feb. 14, 1936 in Canton, a son of Leonard S. and Letadel (Hendee) Davis, and was married in Canton on Oct.5, 1956, to Barbara Ann Kaler, who survives.
 Also surviving are his parents near Yates City, three brothers, George L., Ralph D. , and David A. Davis all at home, and a sister, Mrs. Larry Routlage, also of Yates City.
 He was a member of the Shields Chapel Evangelical United Brethren church.
 Funeral services will be conducted at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon in the Methodist church by the pastor William Bennett. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.
 Friends may call after 4 p.m. Friday at the funeral home and one hour before the services.
  Lt. Turner
 Lt. Turner was born Nov.11, 1933, in Rushville, a son of Lyle and Emily (Snowden) Turner. His widow and three-year old daughter survive.
 Others survivors include his parents, in Virginia; paternal grandmother, Mrs. Grace Turner, 128 West Chestnut street; paternal grandfather and step grandmother, Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Snowden, 30 North Sixth Avenue; and an uncle Arlie Turner, in Cuba.
 Lt. Turner re-entered Bradley University last fall as a junior, having attended the University before entering the Air Force.
Obituary of Edwin "Keith" Keith Sutherland
picture
The Leader, Corning, N.Y., Monday, April 07, 2008
Edwin Keith Sutherland
  Corning, N.Y. - Edwin Keith Sutherland, 86, of Upper Drive in Corning, NY, died Friday, April 4, 2008 at Guthrie Corning Hospital after a brief illness.
  Keith, as he was commonly known, married Betty Crants on July 12, 1947 in Corning, NY.  Betty predeceased Keith on January 11, 1990.
  Keith was born April 6, 1921 in Rushville, Illinois, the son of Glen C. and Grace Ashwood Sutherland.  He maintained close personal and agricultural ties to the Rushville community his entire life.
   He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois in 1944 and remained a life-long fan of the Fighting Illini.  In 1945, he began his career with Corning Glass Works, and retired from Corning, Inc. as a Mechanical Process Engineer after a distinguished 38 year career.
  Keith was a consummate Scotsman and wore the Sutherland tartan proudly.  An inveterate traveler throughout his life, he made friends everywhere he went.  He loved hunting and fishing in his younger years and was a backyard ornithologist who systematically recorded his bird sightings for over 50 years.  He also relished his role as a surrogate Grandpa to several generations of neighborhood kids, all of whom called him Keith.
  Keith is survived by his two sons, Douglas, and his wife, Nancy, reside in Skaneateles, NY.; Gary, his wife, Gretchen, and Keith’s three grandchildren, Lauren, Alexander and Duncan live in Lakewood, CO.  Also surviving are Keith’s brother, Ralph and wife, Marilou, of Peoria, IL. and sister-in-law, Joyce Killigrew of Corning, NY.
  Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
  In lieu of flowers it was Keith’s request that recognition of his life be directed to one of the following organizations: Chaddock Childrens Foundation, 205 South 24th St., Quincy, Illinois 62301 or Landis Valley Museum Heirloom Seed Project, 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster, PA 17601
  Acly-Stover Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.
Obituary of Benton Sharpe
died: December 9, 1912
Astoria Argus-Searchlight, Wednesday, December 11, 1912
Bento Sharpe Dead
  Benton Sharpe died at his home on West Main Street, Monday evening at 9:30, aged 72 years and 14 days.
  Funeral services were held from the residence Wednesday at 10:30 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Cummings of Ipava.
  Interment in the Astoria Cemetery.
  from the collection of Lavina Walton.
Obituary of Richard Giles Aten
Eagle Publications, Nov. 21, 2008
Richard Giles Aten
  Richard Giles Aten, McDonough County, born April 22, 1926, died Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2008, peacefully at home on his family’s farm.
  He was the son of Clarence and Bertha Aten and the youngest of their nine children.
  He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Betty Simpson Aten; his son, Mark (Janet), Oxford, Miss.; and his daughter, Luan Aten, Macomb; four brothers, Sloan and Roscoe Aten, Macomb, Bob Aten, Gardnerville, Nev., and Rex Aten, Ramsey, N. J.; and several nieces and nephews.
  He was preceded in death by one daughter, Brenda Lou Aten, two brothers, George and Keith Aten, and two sisters, Madelyn Christine and Maxine Allison.
  Richard was a lifelong resident of McDonough County. He was a proud farmer and it was his life’s passion. He was also a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army. Richard also enjoyed visiting with friends and family, country drives, roller skating, playing games, listening to country music, Allis-Chalmers farm equipment and reminiscing about farming with a team of horses.
  A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008, at Dodsworth-Piper-Wallen Funeral Home, Macomb, with the Rev. Steven Workman officiating.
  Visitation will be held one hour prior to services.
  Cremation rites have been accorded.
  Memorials may be made to the Methodist Inn, in care of the Methodist Foundation 120 NE Glen Oak Ave. Suite 209 Peoria, IL, 61603 or Disabled American Veterans.
  You may sign the guestbook and leave online condolences, www.dodsworthfh.com.

Peoria Journal Star, Nov. 21, 2008
Aten, Richard      
  MACOMB - Richard Giles Aten, 82, of Macomb passed away Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2008, peacefully at home on his family's farm.
  He was born April 22, 1926, the son of Clarence and Bertha Aten and the youngest of their nine children.
  Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Betty Simpson Aten; his son, Mark and wife, Janet of Oxford, Miss.; and his daughter, Luan Aten of Macomb.
  A daughter, Brenda Lou Aten preceded him in death.
  Also surviving are four brothers, Sloan and Roscoe Aten of Macomb, Bob Aten of Gardnerville, Nev., and Rex Aten of Ramsey, N. J. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
  Preceding Richard in death were two of his brothers, George and Keith Aten; and two sisters, Madelyn Christine and Maxine Allison.
  Richard was a life-long resident of McDonough County. He was a proud farmer and it was his life's passion.
  He was also a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army.
  Richard also enjoyed visiting with friends and family, country drives, roller skating, playing games, listening to country music, Allis-Chalmers farm Equipment and reminiscing about farming with a team of horses.
  A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday Nov. 22, 2008, at the Dodsworth-Piper-Wallen Funeral Home, where visitation will be one hour prior to services. The Rev. Steven Workman will officiate. Cremation has been accorded.
  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Methodist Inn, in care of the Methodist Foundation, 120 NE Glen Oak Ave., Suite 209, Peoria, IL 61603; or Disabled American Veterans.
  Please sign guest book at www.dodsworthfh.com.
Obituary for Barbara Nancy Thompson Lindsey
Peoria Journal Star, Peoria, Illinois, August 20, 1989
  ASTORIA - Mrs. Barbara N. Lindsey, 56, of Astoria died at 5:31 P.M. Friday (August 18, 1989) in Culbertson Memorial Hospital at Rushville.
  She owned and operated Barbara's Fabric Shop from September 1975 until her death.
  She was a member of Astoria Christian Church and Astoria Merchants Association.
  Born January 10, 1933, near Rushville to Frank and Ruth McNeeley Thompson, she married Donald E. Lindsey at Rushville on October 13, 1951.
  Surviving are her husband; one son, Ronald E. of Industry; one daughter, Vicky E. Lindsey of Peoria; and four grandchildren.
  Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday in her church, the Rev. Jim Comstock officiating.  Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, near Astoria. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 tonight at Shawgo Memorial Home.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary Kenneth Harold Lindsey
died: June 17, 1941
Argus Searchlight, Astoria, Illinois, June 18, 1941 
  Kenneth Harold Lindsey was born to Charles and Rebecca Danner Lindsey on October 4, 1901 near Vermont. When just a boy, he with his parents moved into the Astoria Community and has lived in the territory surrounding Astoria nearly all his life.
  On September 24, 1927 he was married to Olive Heath and to this union three sons were born.
  He departed this life in the Graham Hospital in Canton Tuesday morning, at the age of 39 years, 8 months and 13 days.  He was ill only a few days.  Death was due to peritonitis.
  The deceased is survived by his parents, his wife, and three children, Donald, Dean, and Dale. He was the last of six children.
  Funeral services will be conducted in the Astoria Church of the Brethren Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock by the pastor, Lester E. Fike. Burial in Woodland Cemetery.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Harold Dean Lindsey
Peoria Journal Star, September 14, 1999
  Astoria - Harold Dean Lindsey, 66, of Astoria, died at 12:59 A. M. Monday Sept. 13, 1999 at Mason District Hospital in Havana.
  Born Dec. 21, 1932, in Woodland Township, Fulton County to Kenneth and Olive Heath Lindsey, he married Norma Sue Ray on Dec. 25, 1953, in Astoria. She survives.
  Also surviving are two sons, Randy of Havana and Roger of Astoria; two daughters, Mrs. Jim (Jody) Worthington of Rushville and Mrs. Ron (Judy) Beaird of Astoria; two brothers, Donald and Dale, both of Astoria; and eight grandchildren.
  He was a Korean War Army veteran, serving with the 82nd Airborne Division.
  He was a graduate of Gem City College in Quincy, where he taught accounting and business for two years. He then was vice president and general manager of Bader & Co. for 40 years, retiring in December 1997.
  At the time of his death, he was a security officer at Fulton County Courthouse and did mowing for the Astoria School District.
  He was a member of Astoria United Methodist Church, where he served as treasurer and a board member for many years.
  He was a charter member of the Astoria Lions Club.
  He served as an Astoria Township trustee and served on the Astoria Zoning Board.
  He was a former member of the Fulton-Mason Counties Advisory Board of United Federal Savings & Loan Association and the Astoria Recreation Association. He formerly served as a firefighter in Astoria.
  He was a former coach in youth baseball and basketball in the Astoria area. He also served on the Astoria School Board for one term.
  Services will be at 11 a. m. Thursday at his church. The Rev. Martin Stone will officiate. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 pm Wednesday at Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville and one hour before services at the church. Burial will be in Astoria Cemetery where military rites will be conducted by Astoria American Legion Post 25.
  Memorials may be made to his church or to the Astoria Fire and Rescue Squad.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary for Mary "Olive" Olive Heath Lindsey
died: January 12, 1954
Astoria Argus, Astoria, Illinois, January 13, 1954
Olive Lindsey Dies Suddenly Last Evening
  Mrs. Olive Lindsey died suddenly last night at about 7:30 o'clock, on her way to the Methodist church in company with Mrs. Ida Chockley. She was stricken on the sidewalk in front of the Miss Marie Schuman residence. Her death, it is said, was attributed to cerebral hemorrhage. Her sudden death was a severe shock to her family and to her many friends.
  Mrs. Lindsey was born Sept. 28, 1903, a daughter of Frank and Agnes Serff Heath. She was united in marriage to Kenneth Lindsey, who preceded her in death in June, 17, 1941.
  Surviving are: three sons, Donald Lindsey, Dale Lindsey, both of Astoria and  Harold D. Lindsey at Fort Bragg, N. C.; brothers, Willis and Gary Heath, both of Astoria, and sister, Mrs. Opal Schisler, Deer Creek and Mrs. Ruby Brehm of  Turlock, Calif.
  Funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the E. U. B.  Church, conducted by Rev. Fred Thompson. Burial in Woodland cemetery.  Friends may call at the Cline Horton home up until time of funeral.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary for Rebecca Danner Lindsey
died: October 22, 1956
Astoria Argus, Astoria, Illinois, October 24, 1956
Rebecca Lindsey Dies in Rushville Hospital
  Mrs. Rebecca Lindsey, 88, a lifetime resident of this vicinity, died Monday in Culbertson hospital at Rushville, following a long illness.
  Born Dec. 9, 1868 in Porters Sideling, Pa., a daughter of Andrew and Sarah (Rudisill) Danner, she was married on June 24, 1890 to Charles Lindsey, who preceded her in death on Nov. 19, 1943.
  Surviving are three grandsons, Donald and Dale Lindsey of Astoria and Dean in Quincy. Six children preceded her in death.
  The Rev. Walter Young, pastor of the Woodland Church of the Brethren, of which she was a member, conducted services, at 2 o’clock this afternoon in the church. Burial in Woodland cemetery.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Death Notice for Raymond E. Lindsey
died: January 24, 1916
Astoria Argus-Searchlight Astoria, Illinois, Wednesday, January 26, 1916
Tuberculosis Claims Young Man
  Monday night Raymond Lindsey, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Lindsey residing north of Leeseburg in Woodland township, passed away after an extended illness, aged 24 years.  Death was due to tuberculosis.
  Young Lindsey was a very bright and intelligent young man and his death is mourned by a large number of friends.
  The funeral will be held Thursday at 10 o’clock.  Interment in the Woodland cemetery.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary for Lloyd Alvin Lindsey
Astoria Argus Search-Light, Astoria, Illinois, January 3, 1923
Young Man Dies at His Home in Woodland Twp.
  The death of Lloyd Alvin Lindsey, son of Charley and Rebecca Lindsey occurred at the parental home in Woodland township, Fulton County, Illinois, December 25, 1922.  He was born October 13, 1894, being at the time of his death 28 years, 2 months, and 14 days old.
  Lloyd was a young man of a good moral character and well respected by all who knew him.  Another acquaintance was another friend added to his many friends.  Lloyd was stricken with Lung trouble about seven years ago and in spite of all that was known and could be done, he grew gradually weaker, but the end came rather unexpected.  Through all of his afflictions he was at all times cheerful and pleasant, uncomplaining and socialable.  Two beckoning hands are waiting on the other shore to greet him, a little sister, Odessa Fern, who preceded him in infancy and Raymond E., a brother of 24 years, who preceded him about seven years ago, afflicted with the same foe.
  Father and mother, one brother and two sisters and a host of friends remain to mourn the loss of a son, brother and friend.  The third place is vacant which never can be filled, the voice we loved most excellent will be forever stilled.
  Funeral services were conducted by Rev. A. H. Lind, assisted by Rev. Chas. Walter at the Woodland church.  Interment in the cemetery near by.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Death Notice for Sarah Jane Brown Clanin Lindsey
died: February 1, 1922
The Argus Searchlight, February 5, 1922, News for Ipava
Mrs. Sarah Jane Lindsey
  Mrs. Sarah Jane Lindsey passed away at the home of her son, A. R., in Ipava, Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, after several days illness, aged 84 years.  She was twice married.  She leaves two sons, Melvin Clanin, of Canton, Ill., and O. P. Clanin of Deepwater, Mo., by her first husband, and four sons, Henry of Canton, Elmer of Petersburg, Ill., Chas. of Summum, and A. R., of  Ipava, by her second marriage. Funeral services were held from the Christian church, conducted by M. T. Cooper.  Interment will be made in the old cemetery.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Frank Eli Heath
died: August 18, 1950
from a clipping in the Hetrick Bible, source unknown
Frank Heath Dies at Home of Daughter
  Frank Eli Heath, life long resident of this community, died last Friday evening at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Olive Lindsey.  Mr. Heath had been ill little more than a week.
  Mr. Heath was born July 12, 1872 near Astoria, the son of Samuel and Mary Heath.  All his life was spent in or near Astoria.
  He was married Jan. 25, 1899 to Agnes Serff, who preceded him in death Jan. 28, 1919, and is survived by the following children:  Willis Heath, Mrs. Olive Lindsey and Mrs. Ruby Brehm, all of Astoria; Mrs. Opal Schisler, Deer Creek, Ill.; Gary Heath of Ipava; also 12 grandchildren and one brother, Bruce Heath of Omaha, Nebr.
  Funeral services were held at the E.U.B. Church, Astoria, Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Fred Thompson, assisted by Rev. Barr.  Burial in Oak Grove cemetery.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Death Notice for Agnes May Serff Heath
died: January 28, 1919
Astoria Argus Search-Light, February, 5, 1919 (Funeral held Jan. 30, 1919)
Funeral Held
  The funeral of Mrs. Frank Heath, who died suddenly, at her home three miles west of Astoria on Tuesday of last week, was held Thursday at 10 o'clock at Oak Grove church conducted by Rev. J. H. Davis.  Interment in Oak Grove cemetery.
  The large crowd that assembled with the many beautiful floral tributes all testify to the high esteem she was held by the people of the community.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Willis "Bill" J. Heath
died: August 1, 1975
Peoria Journal Star, date unknown
  ASTORIA - Willis Heath, 73, of Astoria died at 11:30 p.m. Friday at his home.
  Services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Shawgo Memorial Home, with burial in Astoria Cemetery.
  Visitation will be tomorrow afternoon and evening at the memorial home. Masonic services will be at 8:30 p.m.
  He was born near Astoria on Feb. 14, 1902, a son of Frank and Agnes Serff Heath.  He married Muriel Stephens on May 21, 1944, in Astoria.  She survives.
  Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. Opal Schisler of Branson, Mo., and Mrs. Ruby Brehm of Turlock, Calif.
  Mr. Heath was a retired construction worker.
  He was a member of Astoria Masonic Lodge 100.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary for Muriel J. Stephens Heath
Peoria Journal Star, Monday, April 13, 1998
Muriel Heath
  Astoria - Muriel J. Heath 95, of Astoria died at 1:30 a.m. Sunday April 12, 1998 at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.
  Born April 21, 1902 in Woodland Township, Fulton County to James W. and Orlena Bloomfield Stephens, she married Willis J. Heath on May 21, 1944 who preceded her in death Aug. 1, 1975.  Two sisters also preceded her in death.
  Surviving are one brother, William Stephens, and one sister, Nellie Stephens, both of Astoria.
  She owned and operated Stephens Cafe in Astoria from 1937 to 1944.
  She was a member of the Sunshine Club and South Fulton Senior Citizens Center, both in Astoria.
  Services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria.  Collis Trone will officiate.  Visitation will be from 6 to 8 tonight a tthe memorial home.  Burial will be in Astoria Cemetery.
  Memorials may be made to South Fulton Senior Citizens Center or to Astoria Township Cemetery Associaiton.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Death Notice & Obituary for Samuel Heath
died: May 29, 1918
Astoria Argus, June 5, 1918, vol. 39, no. 41, pg. 1
SAMUEL HEATH MEETS WITH FATAL ACCIDENT
Succumbs to Injuries Sustained by Being Run Over by a Frightened Heifer - Community is Shocked
  Samuel Heath an aged and highly respected retired farmer, residing west of Astoria met with a singular accident at about 8:30 o'clock Wednesday morning, which terminated in his death.
  His son, Bruce, and family reside with him and the family was trying to drive a young heifer into the lot to milk her.  Mr. Heath, who was in an invalid chair, wheeled himself out near the lot, just out side the gate. The cow jumped out of the lot and he set the dog after her, where upon she circled around and coming near where he was sitting jumped over him and into the lot again.  His chair was thrown over and he was mashed through the gate.  He suffered concussion of the brain and a broken right leg, between the knee and ankle.
  He was carried into the house and Dr. E. M. Price was called.  He was semi-conscious, when the doctor arrived, but gradually lapsed into unconsciousness, and died about 11 o'clock.
  Two years ago last January Mr. Heath slipped and fell on the ice and fractured his right hip.  Last winter a gangrenous infection set in, in his left heel.  He was taken to Galesburg where an operation was performed, since which time he has been able to walk but very little.
  Aside from his invalid condition, he was enjoying fair health for one of his age, which was past 85 years.
  The people of Astoria were shocked when the news of the fatal accident reached this city, and sincere and heartfelt sympathy is extended by the entire public to the sorely stricken members of the family.
  No funeral arrangements have been made as we go to press.

from newspaper clipping found in Hetrick bible:
  Samuel Heath was born in Allghaney Co., Pa., Dec. 19th, 1833, from which state he came to Ohio in 1836, and from there came to the present locality in 1855, where he resided until his death.
  He was united in marriage to Mary Landes on January 16, 1862.  She was called to join the great host above, March 26, 1915.
  To them ten children were born, four dying in infancy.  Those surviving are:  Mrs. D. W. Lybarger, of Alpena, South Dakota.  Mrs. Henry Hetrick of Astoria; Wm. Heath of Raton, New Mexico; R. A. Heath of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Frank Heath and Bruce Heath, of Astoria, who mourn his departure.
  All of the surviving children were in attendance at the funeral.
  Mr. Heath was a member of the Christian church of Astoria for more than 20 years.
  The funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at one o'clock from his late residence two miles west of Astoria, conducted by Rev. Fred Wilson, of Vermont.
  The remains were laid to rest in the Salem cemetery.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Death Notice and Obituary for John N. Serff
died: December 1, 1917
The Astoria Argus Search-Light, December 7, 1917
JOHN N. SERFF KILLED IN RUNAWAY ACCIDENT
Fatal Accident Occurred Saturday Evening One-Quarter Mile West of Astoria.
  Saturday evening at 7 o'clock John Serff, a prominent and highly respected farmer residing four miles southwest of Astoria died from injuries received in a runaway accident which occurred at about five the same evening, one-fourth mile west of this city, near Andy Mummert's residence.
  Mr. Serff and wife came to Astoria accompanied by their son, Sherman and wife of Peoria, who had spent Thanksgiving with them.  Sherman and his wife were leaving for their home and were taken to the depot by his father in his two seated hack.  At about five o'clock Mr. and Mrs. Serff left for their home and when near Andy Mummert's residence one trace became unhooked and one of the animals, which was very high spirited, began to kick and they both started to run away. The tongue came down and the hack was turned completely over, throwing the occupants violently from the rig.  Both were thrown near the fence.  Mrs. Serff was only slightly injured and she immediately went to the assistance of her husband who lay only a few feet away.  He was unconscious and she did all in her power to resuscitate him.  Grover Derry and Mrs. Lewis Hess were the first to appear on the scene and lend assistance.  A physician was summoned and acting upon his advice, the injured man was taken to his home in William Hastings' automobile.
  On examination it was found that he alighted on his head, striking the left temple, inflicting injuries to the brain from which he died at 7 o'clock Saturday evening.
  The team ran to Jesse Stambaugh's farm home before they were caught. The rig was badly damaged.

Obituary:
  John Serff was born Jan. 10th 1853 in York County, Pa.  He came to Illinois when quite young with his parents.  At the time of his death he was aged 64 years, 10 months and 21 days.
  In 1873 he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Flickinger of near Ipava and to them were born three children, namely, Mrs. Carrie Davis, deceased, Mrs. Frank Heath of Astoria and Sherman Serff of Peoria.  In December 1886 his wife passed to her final reward.
  Mr. Serff was again married in Dec. 1888, his second wife being Miss Minnie Skiles.  To them was born one daughter, Mrs. Orley Prather of Astoria.  Besides his heartbroken wife, two daughters and one son, he leaves to mourn his untimely death, one sister, Mrs. James Pierce of Rushville.
  Mr. Serff was a member of the Union Baptist church and served on the school board in that district for a number of years.  He was a good neighbor, an upright citizen and was held in high esteem by all who knew him and had a host of friends who were pained to hear of his sad death.
  The funeral services were held Monday at 2:30 o'clock at the Oak Grove church, conducted by Rev. John Davis of Woodland Township.  Interment will be in the cemetery near by.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Frank "Penny" R. Thompson
died: January 17, 1975
from a clipping of his obituary found in his daughter's bible, probably from Astoria Argus, January 22, 1975)
Frank Thompson, 75, Astoria, Dies
  Frank "Penny" Thompson, 75, of Astoria died at 5 p.m. Friday at Culbertson Hospital in Rushville.
  Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria.  The Rev. Mike Hargrave will officiate and burial willbe in the Good Hope Cemetery, near Rushville.  Friends may call at the funeral home Sunday evening.
  Mr. Thompson was born on April 20, 1899, in Schuyler County, a son of Joseph and Nancy Skiles Thompson.  He married Ruth McNeeley on Sept. 19, 1931.  She is deceased.  He was a retired farmer and member of the Astoria Christian Church.
  He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Barbara Lindsey of Astoria; two grandchildren; one great grandchild; one half brother, John of Tennessee.  Several brothers and sister preceded him in death.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Opal Heath Schisler
from Peoria Journal Star, November 5, 1993
Opal Schisler
  Astoria - Opal H. Schisler, 88, of Astoria died at 2:57 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 4, 1993, at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.
  Born Sept. 11, 1905, near Astoria to Frank and Agnes Serff Heath, she married Harold S. Schisler on March 17, 1934 in Astoria.  He died Jan.2, 1987.  One sister and two brothers also preceded her in death.
  Surviving are one sister, Ruby Brehm of Turlock, Calif.; and 11 nieces and nephews.
  Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at South Fulton Cemetery near Astoria.  Collis Trone will officiate.  Calling hours will be afternoon on Saturday at Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville.
  Memorials may be made to Astoria Township Cemetery.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Susan Drusilla (Isabel) Isabell McNeeley
The Rushville Times, February 23, 1938
Mrs. Jas. McNeeley Dies of Pneumonia at Vermont
  Mrs. Susan Drusilla Isabell McNeeley was born in Missouri, April 25, 1864, and passed away at her home in Vermont Monday, Feb. 20, 1938, at 11:45 p.m., after a lingering illness of pneumonia at the age of 73 years, 9 months and 26 days.
  As a child she was brought to Illinois by her parents where she grew to womanhood, and was united in marriage with James McNeeley on July 27, 1882.  They were former residents of Rushville township and spent most of their lives in Schuyler county, moving to Vermont in March, 1936.
  Mrs. McNeeley's life interests centered mainly about her home and family.  She was of a lovable disposition, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need and to know her was to love her.  She was of a devout mind having professed religion more than thirty years ago.
  She was the mother of nine children, two dying in infancy, and leaves to mourn her loss her bereaved husband and six children, namely:  Ralph of Bardolph; Burt of Oakland township; Harrison of Littleton: Lawrence of Adair; Mrs. Cleve Wright and Mrs. Harry Riley of Vermont.  One daughter, Mrs. Nellie Skiles, of Rushville, died in April, 1937.  Gertrude and Mary Jane dying in infancy.  She leaves thirty-three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, besides one brother and two sisters:  Wm. Isabell and Mrs. Algerena Parks of Rushville and Mrs. Mary Sherrill of Browning.
  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock at the Methodist Church in Vermont, conducted by the Rev. Fred Wilson.  Interment in Vermont cemetery.
  Three of her granddaughters, Miss Dorothy Skiles, Mrs. Gerald Skiles and Mrs. Ralford Skiles looked after the flowers, and deposited them on her grave at the cemetery in memory of one dear to them.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Nancy Matilda Skiles Thompson
From the Rushville Times, November 16, 1905
  Nancy Matilda Skiles, daughter of George and Elizabeth Skiles, was born Aug. 2, 1858, and died Nov. 12, 1905, having lived 47 years, 3 months and 12 days.  She was united in marriage to Joseph R. Thompson Aug. 4, 1876, and was the mother of eleven children, two of whom died in infancy, leaving Jess, Amanda, Ethel, George, Annie, Otto, Oscar, Minnie and Frank to walk thru life without the guidance of a mother.  She also leaves her husband, mother, five sisters and five brothers to mourn her loss.  She professed Christianity at an early age, and during her sickness and at the last moment she said she was ready and willing for the will of the Lord to be done.  Funeral services were held on Monday afternoon and interment was in Good Hope cemetery, five miles northeast of Rushville.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
  Note: Schuyler County Marriage Book states they were married August 24, 1876.
Obituary of Henry "Otto" Otto Thompson
died: January 15, 1960
The Rushville Times, January 21, 1960
H. Otto Thompson, 66, Dies Here on Friday
  H. Otto Thompson, 67, of Rushville died Friday afternoon at the Culbertson Memorial hospital where he had been a patient 18 days.  He was a retired coal miner and former Schuyler county road commissioner.
  Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the Voorhees-Hursey Memorial home.  The Rev. Le Roy Cronkhite officiated. Burial was in the Good Hope cemetery.
  Henry Otto Thompson was born May 28, 1893, the son of Joseph and Nancy Thompson and was a lifelong resident of Schuyler county.  Surviving are his widow, the former Mary Jeanette Rebman; two sons, Charles of Lincoln and Herbert of Ferris; two daughters, Mrs. Dorothy Lawler of Galveston, Texas and Mrs. Ruth Coleman of Rock Island; two brothers, George of Astoria and Frank of Table Grove; two sister, Mrs. Minnie Umphryes of Rushville and Mrs. Annie Wilson of California; two half brothers, John of Macomb and Ivan of Rushville; 11 grandchildren and four great grand-children.  His first wife, Cora Litha, and a daughter, Rachel, are deceased.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
  NOTE: Obit birth does not agree with other records.  1900 census states: May 28, 1892.
Obituary of William Lewis Isabell
The Rushville Times, January 22, 1953
William L. Isabell
  William L. Isabell, youngest child of James W. and Sarah Brumfield Isabell was born on a farm in Browning township, Schuyler County, Illinois on April 7, 1870 and died January 13, 1953 at his home in Rushville at the age of 82 years, nine months and six days.  Here in Browning township he grew up and most of his life was spent within Schuyler county.
  On September 28, 1898 he was united in marriage to Miss Jessie Thompson.  No children were born of this union, but two foster children, Frank Thompson, who resides on a farm in Browning township, and Bertha, the wife of Roy Hopkins who resides east of Rushville, made their home with these two, who were kind and loving parents to them until they married and established homes of their own.
  He was preceded in death by his father and mother, two children by a former marriage, Cora and Freddie, a brother, Thomas, who died in childhood, and four sisters Mrs. James McNeeley, Mrs. Mary Miller, Mrs. Algerena Parks, and Mrs. Frances Trone.
  Left to mourn his passing are his wife, Jessie, two foster children,  even foster-grandchildren, Barbara Thompson Lindsey, Lenora Hopkins Stivers, Shirley Hopkins Dean, Leroy, Helen, Mary Louise, and Nancy Hopkins, and a foster great-grandchild, Ronald Eugene Lindsey, several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services were held Friday at 2 p.m., at the Voorhees Memorial Home, with the Rev. Steve Reining, officiating.  Burial was in the Good Hope cemetery.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Amanda "Ellen" Ellen Thompson Croxton Stevens
From Rushville Times, November 16, 1944
Mrs. Ellen Croxton Stevens died in Macomb Nov. 9th, 1944
  Mrs. Ellen Croxton Stevens, a native of Rushville township died last Thursday afternoon at Phelps hospital in Macomb, following a two years' period of failing health.  She was in her sixty-fourth year.
  Funeral services, conducted by Rev. H. S. Crede, were held Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at the Gordon Funeral home, with burial in Messerer cemetery.
  The following obituary was read at the service:
  Amanda Ellen Croxton Stevens, daughter of Joseph and Nancy Skiles Thompson, was born in Schuyler County, April 6, 1881, and passed away at Phelps hospital in Macomb, Thursday November 9, at the age of 63 years, 7 months, and 3 days.
  "Aunt Kate," as she was better known, had been in failing health for two years, but bore her afflictions with great patience.
  On December 21, 1898, she was united in marriage to Henry Arlington Croxton, and to this union five children were born:  Mrs. Kenneth Bartlett of Macomb, Mrs. Harry Osborne of Beardstown, Marlen Croxton, Austin Croxton, and Mrs. Samuel Gossage, all of Rushville.
  Aunt Kate's life was spent in lending a helping hand to those in need. She was always ready and willing to go where she was most needed.  To know her was to love her, and her presence will be greatly missed.
  She leaves to mourn her passing her five children, twenty-seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, four sisters, and three brothers, namely:  Mrs. William Isabel, Mrs. Grover Umphrey, and Otto Thompson of Rushville, Mrs. Elmer Tharp and Geo. Thompson of Astoria, Mrs. J. E. Wilson of Oakland, Calif., and Frank Thompson of Bushnell; and two half-brothers, John Thompson of Macomb and Ivan Thompson of the U. S. Navy, and a host of other relatives and friends.  One brother, Oscar Thompson, preceded her in death seven years ago, and a brother and sister died in infancy.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Ethel Gertrude Thompson Gossage Tharpe
From the Rushville Times, February 8, 1945
Mrs. Ethel Tharpe
  Ethel Gertrude, third daughter of Joseph and Nancy Skiles Thompson, was born August 16, 1885, in Schuyler county, and departed this life at her home near Astoria,  January 29, 1945, being at the time of her death 59 years, 5 months, and 15 days.
  Ethel had been in failing health for two years, and bore her afflictions with great patience.  She was of a cheery disposition and well liked by all who knew her.  During her long illness she found great peace and comfort in the Lord.  She spoke often that she was ready to go.
  In the year, 1902 she was united in marriage with Curtis Gossage of Rushville.  To this union were born three children, Lester, who passed away October 3, 1937, Mrs. Roy Hopkins of Rushville, and Mrs. Charles Morrell of Macomb, who, during her illness did all that loving hands could.
  On June 28, 1922, she was united in marriage to Elmer Tharpe of Rushville who thru her long illness was ever faithful in his constant care and devotion.  Ethel took great pride in her home and was never happier than when surrounded by her family and friends.
  Beside her husband and daughters ... {unreadable} grandchildren; the following brothers and sisters, Mrs. William Isabel, ... {unreadable}, of Rushville, Frank Thompson of Bushnell, George Thompson of Astoria, Mrs. E. J. Wilson of Oakland, Calif.; two half-brothers John Thompson of Macomb and Ivan Thompson of the U. S. Navy; and a host of other relatives and friends.  One brother and one sister died in infancy, and a brother, Oscar, passed away May 8, 1937, and a sister, Amanda Stevens, passed away November 9, 1944.
  Funeral services were held Wednesday, January 31, at 2:00 P.M. at the Gordon Funeral home, conducted by Rev. Fred Thompson of Astoria. Interment was in Good Hope cemetery.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Anna Rachel Thompson Wilson
The Rushville Times, August 24, 1967
  Anna Rachel Thompson Wilson passed away August 7, 1967 at Memorial hospital in Bakersfield, California following a long illness at the age of 77 years, 2 months, and 8 days.
  She was born on a farm in Rushville Township, Schuyler County, Illinois and was one of 11 children of Joseph R. and Nancy Skiles Thompson.
  She is survived by her devoted husband, Joseph E. Wilson, with whom she shared 35 happy years; two sons, Floyd B. Hickerson of Oakland, and Arthur R. Hickerson of Bakersfield; one daughter, Mrs. Edna Mae Brewer of El Cerrite; three grandchildren; Jackie Ann Brewer of San Francisco, Richard Brewer of El Cerrite, and Cynthia Hickerson of Bakersfield; four brothers, George, Frank, Ivan and John Thompson of Illinois; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Raymond E. Hickerson, two sons, four sisters and two brothers.
  Ann Wilson lived the early part of her life in Rushville and surrounding community.  The family moved to California in 1946 permanently and resided in Bakersfield the past seven and one-half years.
  She became affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in 1963.
  Anna Wilson was a devoted wife and mother.  She enjoyed collecting flowers and handiwork were her favorite hobbies.  She was the happiest when her family, friends and neighbors were around her.  She was always ready with a helping hand when needed.  Even during her long illness, she was always cheerful and conveyed to those who visited her, especially children, to feel important and happy.
  She was loved by all who knew her and will be greatly missed.
  Funeral services were held Thursday, August 10 at Hillcrest Mortuary chapel in Bakersfield.  Burial was in Kirtland Green Lawn Hillcrest Memorial Park in Bakersfield.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Jessie Thompson Isabell
The Rushville Times, December 15, 1955
Last Rites Held Here Sunday for Mrs. W. L. Isabell:
  Mrs. Jessie Thompson Isabell, of Rushville, died at 8:30 a. m., December 8, at the home of her niece, Mrs. Roy Hopkins, following a brief illness.
  Mrs. Isabell was born November 9, 1937 {1877} in Rushville Township, the daughter of Joseph R. and Nancy Skiles Thompson.  Her entire lifetime was spent in and near Rushville and Schuyler county, where she met and married William L. Isabell on September 28, 1898.
  No children were born to this union, but two foster children, Frank Thompson, who resides on a farm in Browning Township and Mrs. Bertha Hopkins, who resides east of Rushville, made their home with these two, who were kind and loving parents to them until they married and established homes of their own.
  Mrs. Isabell was a member of the Baptist church in Rushville.
  Mr. Isabell preceded her in death approximately three years ago.  She was also preceded in death by one brother and two sisters, Oscar Thompson, Mrs. Ethel Tharp and Mrs. Amanda Croxton.  A brother and sister died in infancy.
  Surviving are three brothers, two sisters, and two half brothers, George Thompson, Astoria; Otto Thompson, Rushville; Frank Thompson, Browning; Mrs. Anna Wilson, Ventura, California; Mrs. Minnie Umphreys, Rushville, John Thompson, Macomb and Ivan Thompson, Rushville.
  Left to mourn her passing are two foster children, seven foster-grandchildren, Barbara Thompson Lindsey, Lenora Hopkins Stivers, Shirley Hopkins Dean, Helen Hopkins Robertson, Leroy, Mary and Louise and Nancy Hopkins, and three foster great-grandchildren, Ronald and Vicky Lindsey, and Steven Robertson, several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services were held Sunday at 2 p. m. at the Voorhees Memorial home, the Rev. Steve Reining officiating.  Interment was in the Good Hope Cemetery northeast of Rushville.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Death Notice of Winnefred Beebe Thompson
died: December 31, 1915
The Rushville Times, January 6, 1916
Winnefred Beebe Thompson
  Mrs. Joseph Thompson, who lived 2 1/2 miles north of Pleasantview, died at her home last Friday Evening.  She leaves a husband, two children, a father, four sisters and a host of friends and relatives to mourn her death.
  Note: She is the daughter of John Cole Beebe & Jessie (Jennie) Fisher.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Jesse "Rachel" Rachel Thompson
From the Rushville Times, July 19, 1933
Miss Rachel Thompson
  Miss Rachel Thompson, 14 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Thompson, was killed Sunday night in an auto accident and died later at Culbertson Hospital.
  Jesse Rachel Thompson, daughter {daughter} of Otto and Cora Moore Thompson, was born in Schuyler County January 19, 1919, and died July 15, 1933, aged 14 years 5 months and 28 days.  She was the youngest of a family of 5 children.
  She is survived by her parents and the following brothers and sisters: Charles Otto, Herbert Ora, Mrs. Dorothy Lawler, Mrs. Ruth Brewer; her grand-parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Moore; 1 nephew; and other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services were held Wednesday at 10 a. m. at the Christian Church conducted by Rev. M. A. Warren with interment in the Good Hope Cemetery northeast of Rushville.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Death of Oscar Ray Thompson
Clipping in the Bible of Barbara Nancy Thompson Lindsey, niece of Oscar Ray Thompson
Oscar Ray Thompson Used Rifle to Take Own Life
  The lifeless body of Oscar Ray Thompson, aged 41 years, a life-long resident of Rushville, was found Friday evening, shortly after dark, in the garage at his home in the southeast part of Rushville.  A bullet wound in the head, and a rifle lying by his side, gave evidence that death had been instantaneous.
  The startling discovery of the tragedy was made by Mr. Thompson's brother, Otto, when he visited the latter's home.
  Coroner W. F. Justus was notified, and with Sheriff Fred Read and Deputy Lonnie De Counter, went to the scene of the tragedy, and gave permission for the body to be removed to the Gordon funeral home, where an inquest was held Saturday morning.
  The verdict returned was that Mr. Thompson's death had been caused by a bullet wound from a rifle discharged by his own hands with suicidal intent.
  Funeral services conducted by Rev. E. Rining of Beardstown, were held Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock, at the Baptist church in Rushville. Interment was in the Good Hope cemetery, northeast of Rushville.
  Oscar Ray Thompson, son of Joseph R. and Nancy Skiles Thompson, was born April 6, 1896, near Rushville, and departed this life May 7, 1937, at his home in Rushville, at the age of 41 years, 1 month and 1 day.
  During the World war he was called to the service of his country, spending fourteen months overseas.
  He was married on Christmas day 1919 to Miss Mazel {Hazel} Harris, and to this union were born two children:  Raymond, who died at the early age of four years, and Helen, 14 years old, who resides with her mother in Beardstown.
  In 1931 he was baptised {baptized} into the Baptist church at East Union.
  On January 23, 1932, he was united in marriage to Miss Opal Schaffer.
  He leaves to mourn his death, his wife, daughter Helen, three brothers - George, Otto and Frank, five sisters - Jessie, Amanda, Ethel, Anna and Minnie, two half-brothers - Ivan and John, and a host of other relatives.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Death Cert.
Obituary of Ruth May McNeeley Thompson
died: September 27, 1958
Argus Searchlight, October 1, 1958
Mrs. Ruth M. Thompson Dies in Rushville Hospital
  Mrs. Ruth May Thompson of near Astoria, died Sunday morning in the Culbertson hospital in Rushville.  She had been in ill health for several months.
  Born July 31, 1905, in Schuyler County, a daughter of Burt and Bertha (Beebe) McNeeley, she was married on Sept. 19, 1931, to Frank R. Thompson, who survives.
  Surviving also are a daughter, Mrs. Barbara Lindsey of Bushnell; two grand-children; four sisters, Miss Flora McNeeley, Mrs. Susie Ackerson and Mrs. Jessie Vaughn, all in Bushnell, and Mrs. Elsie Tremain, in Colchester; and three brothers, Clarence McNeeley, Rushville, and Guy and Harold L., both in Bushnell.
  Funeral services were conducted at 2:30 o'clock Tuesday afternoon in the Astoria Christian church, of which Mrs. Thompson was a member by the Rev. Steve  Reining of Rushville.  Burial in Good Hope Cemetery.
  The Horton Funeral Home had charge of the services.
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Raymond "Ray" Hickerson & son, Glen Dale
died: August 4, 1921
Note: Obits state they died on the 4th but the calendar states that Friday afternoon of last week,  was the 5th.
The Rushville Times, Thursday, August 11, 1921
BLACK DAMP KILLS TWO
Ray Hickerson and Little Seven-Year-Old Son Met Death in an Abandoned Air Shaft.
  Black damp in an abandoned air shaft to a coal mine, four miles east of Rushville, caused the death of Ray Hickerson and his seven-year-old son, Glenn, Friday afternoon of last week, about 4:30 o'clock.
  The child was overcome by the deadly gas when he climbed down a ladder into the abandoned air shaft, and the father met a similar fate when he went to the rescue.
Both bodies were recovered a half an hour later, but Ralph McCormick, who first went to the rescue, was: overcome and taken from the shaft unconscious by his brother, Lewis, who faced the danger with full knowledge of the consequences.
  Glen Hickerson the seven-year-old boy, who met his death from the deadly black damp, had gone to the aban­doned air shaft in company with an older brother and a son of Harvey Settles.
  The shaft was about 200 yards from the Hickerson residence, and had filled in until it was only about fifteen feet deep, and no one regarded it as dangerous. The boys playing about the field decided to go down the ladder and Glenn was the first to go.
  As soon as he reached the bottom he seemed to know something was wrong, and tried to climb out, but fell back. His little companions say he made a second attempt, and called for his mother, and they ran to the house for help.
  The father and John Byers were at the house and ran to the shaft to rescue the boy. Mr. Hickerson, an experienced coal miner, doubtless knew the danger of black damp, but without hesitation went down the ladder to rescue his son. He picked the lad up, mounted the ladder, and was halfway to the top when he too was overcome and fell to the bottom.
  John Byers, an aged man, was powerless to render aid in the tragedy he had witnessed. Just at this time L. A. Jarman, and Thomas Lewis of Baitimore, Md., who had started out in an automobile to visit the coal fields, were hailed by Mr. Byers as they drove along the road and they at once set out to get men and a rope.
  They drove to the McCormick coal mine, a quarter cf a mile distant, and Albert McCormick and his two sons, Ralph and Lewis, returned with them to render aid. They brought a rope with them, and Ralph went down the ladder and tied it to the body of the Hickerson boy. Then it was that he was overcome by the deadly gas. With two men and the boy lying unconscious at the bottom of the shaft, Lewis McCormick, went down the ladder, after a rope had been attached to his body, and brought his brother to the surface, and the other bodies were hoisted out  in the same manner.
  Ralph McCormick was unconscious when removed from the shaft, but soon revived. Ray Hickerson and his son, Glenn, had probably been in the shaft thirty minutes, and all efforts to revive them were futile.
  Dr. C. M. Flemming was called and supplemented the first aid treatment, but there was no sign of life in either father or son.
  The air shaft, where the accident occurred, was located on the four-acre tract of land owned by Mr. Hickerson. The shaft had been at one time about thirty-feet deep, but had filled in until it was only half that depth. It was about six feet square, and the old wooden ladder, that was used when the mine was operated, had never been removed.
  Mr. Hickerson operated a new mine, which he opened a year ago on the John H. Boice farm, south of his home place. He was a practical miner, and was making a success of his business, and was a man held in high esteem by his associates and neighbors.
  Saturday morning at 10 o'clock double funeral services were held at the Christian church in Pleasantview for father and son, conducted by Rev. Fred Wilson of Vermont; interment was made in the Messerer cemetery.

Obituary of Glenn Dale Hickerson
Glenn Dale Hickerson
  Glenn Dale Hickerson, son of Raymond E. and Anna Hickerson, was born Sept. 28, 1913 near Pleasantview, and died August 4, 1921, when he playfully climbed down into an abandoned air shaft, which he could not know was filled with "black damp." He was 7 years, 10 months and 6 days of age.
  Glenn was a bright, lovable little fellow; a little friend to all, who knew him. His tragic death leaves an aching loneliness in the hearts of his widowed mother, brother and little sister, who are left behind. There is only One who can comfort our hearts In this hour of grief. 'Tis He who said: "Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven."

Obituary of Raymond "Ray" Eaton Hickerson
Raymond Hickerson
  Raymond Eaton Hickerson was born April 4, 1885, in Pleasantview, and gave his life in an attempt to rescue his small son from an abandoned air shaft, into which he had fallen on being overcome with "black damp" on August 4, 1921.
  He was united in marriage on January 1, 1909 to Miss Anna Thompson, of near Rushville. To this union were born four children - Floyd, Glenn Dale, who died with his father, Edna Mae, and one baby who died in infancy.
  Raymond was the youngest son of W. D. and Emma Hickerson of Pleasantview. His mother preceded him to the great beyond two years ago. He leaves to mourn his loss his wife and two children, Floyd and Edna Mae, two brothers James and William, both of Pleasantview, two sisters, Mrs. Reverdy R. Wilmot of Rushville, Mrs. George Wilmot of Macomb, and his aged father, W. D. Hickerson, of Pleasantview, and a host of other relatives and friends, who feel that a brave kind-hearted and loving neighbor has gone, from their midst.
  During all his married life Ray, as he was called, had been a miner, and he bad been working at the mines all day the day death called him. He made many friends, who found him always willing to help them. He was a loving husband and a kind father. He struggled until the last to stay with his loved ones, but it was not to be, for in a few moments the deadly fumes had claimed both father and son as victims.
  His death came as a great shock to all around him.
  "The boast of heraldry, the pomp of power,
   And all that beauty, all that wealth e'er gave,
   Awaits alike the inevitable hour: -
   The paths of glory lead but to the grave"
  from Vicky Scott <rodvickyscott@yahoo.com>
Obituary of Flora E. McNeeley
Peoria Journal Star, November 20, 1997
Flora McNeeley
  BUSHNELL - Flora E. McNeeley, 90, of 1212 Madelyn Ave., Macomb, formerly of Bushnell, died at 10:25 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, 1997, at McDonough District Hospital in Macomb.
  She was born July 20, 1907, in Rushville to Bert and Bertha Beebe McNeeley.
  Surviving are one brother, Harold McNeeley of Galesburg, and one sister, Jessie Vaughn of Bushnell. Four sisters and three brothers preceded her in death.
  She was a member of Bushnell Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school for 22 years and was chairman of the White Cross of the Mission Circle.
  Services will be at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Martin-Hollis Funeral Home. The Rev. L.G. Glenn will officiate. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Vermont Cemetery in Vermont, Ill.
  Memorials may be made to her church.
Obituary of Guy O. McNeeley
Peoria Journal Star, July 25, 1997
Guy McNeeley
BUSHNELL - Guy O. McNeeley, 79, of 309 W. Hess St. died at 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 23, 1997, at McDonough District Hospital in Macomb.
  Born April 10, 1918, in Rushville to Bert and Bertha Beebe McNeeley, he married Vivian Irene Smith on Oct. 25, 1947, in Bushnell. She survives.
  Also surviving are one son, James of Pekin; one brother, Harold of Galesburg; two sisters, Flora McNeeley of Macomb and Jessie Vaughn of Bushnell; and two granddaughters. Two brothers and four sisters preceded him in death.
  A World War II Army veteran, he was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1422. He was a machinist at McGraw Edison in Macomb and later for C.S. Norcross Co. in Bushnell. He retired in 1982.
  Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Martin-Hollis Funeral Home, Bushnell. The Rev. James Wheeler will officiate. Calling hours will be after 2 p.m. today at the funeral home, where visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in Bushnell Cemetery, with military rites by his VFW post.
  Memorials may be made to McDonough District Hospital Hospice Program.
Obituary for Harold L. McNeeley
Eagle Publications, December 20, 2001
Harold McNeeley
  Harold L. McNeeley, 79, of Galesburg, formerly of Bushnell, died at 1:44 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2001, at Galesburg Cottage Hospital.
  Born July 18, 1922, in Vermont, Ill., to Bert and Bertha McNeeley, he married Phyllis Rock on Sept. 15, 1945, in London Mills. She died July 19, 1990.
  He also was preceded in death by five sisters and three brothers.
  Surviving are one son, Howard of Camdenton, Mo.; three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one sister, Jessie Vaughn of Bushnell.
  He managed Hummel Lumber Co. in Avon and also worked at Valley Quarry.
  Services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Martin-Hollis Funeral Home in Bushnell with the Rev. Jim Vancil officiating.
 Burial was in Bushnell Cemetery.
  Memorials may be made to Bushnell Baptist Church or any charity.

Peoria Journal Star, December 14, 2001
Harold McNeeley
  GALESBURG - Harold L. McNeeley, 79, of 899 Ohio Ave., formerly of Bushnell, died at 1:44 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2001, at Galesburg Cottage Hospital.
  Born July 18, 1922, in Vermont, Ill., to Bert and Bertha Beebe McNeeley, he married Phyllis Rock on Sept. 15, 1945, in London Mills. She died July 19, 1990.
  He also was preceded in death by five sisters and three brothers.
  Surviving are one son, Howard of Camdenton, Mo.; three grandchildren; five greatgrandchildren; and one sister, Jessie Vaughn of Bushnell.
  He managed Hummel Lumber Co. in Avon and also worked at Valley Quarry.
  Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Martin-Hollis Funeral Home in Bushnell. The Rev. Jim Vancil will officiate. Friends may call after 2 p.m. today at the funeral home, where visitation will be from 6 to 8 tonight. Burial will be in Bushnell Cemetery.
  Memorials may be made to Bushnell Baptist Church or any charity.
Obituary of Helen Elizabeth Hopkins Robertson
picture
Worthington Funeral Home Obituary
Helen Elizabeth Robertson
  Helen Elizabeth Robertson 77, of Rushville passed away at 12:55 a.m. Thursday July 10, 2008 in Heartland Healthcare Center at Macomb, Illinois.
  She was born December 26, 1930 at the home of her parents in Rushville.  She was the daughter of the late Roy & Bertha Gossage Hopkins.  She married Marvin Wayne “Jim” Robertson on October 11, 1953.
  She is survived by her husband, (2) daughters; Joyce Briney Foutch of Marion, Illinois, & Lisa Robertson McCutchan  of Rushville (5) grandchildren; Jason Briney, Jennifer Briney Hole, Anna L. Robertson, Olivia Robertson & Cody Foutch, (1) great-grandchild, Noah S. Robertson; (2) sisters Lenora Stivers & Mary Lou Trujillo both of Rushville.  She was preceded in death by her parents, (2) sons Steven Wayne Robertson & James “Joe” Marvin Robertson; (1) daughter Tabitha Jane Robertson; (1) brother William “Bud” Leroy Hopkins (2) sisters Shirley Moshack & Nancy Hopkins.
  Graveside services will be held at Ridgeville Cemetery near Browning at 11:00 a.m. Saturday July 12, 2008.  Burial will follow at the cemetery.  Private condolences & expressions of sympathy may be sent to worthing@worthingtonfh.com

The Astoria South Fulton Argus, Astoria, IL, July 16, 2008
  Helen Elizabeth Robertson, 77, of Rushville died at 12:55 a.m. July 10, 2008, at Heartland Healthcare Center in Macomb.
  She was born Dec. 26, 1930, in Rushville, a daughter of Roy and Bertha Gossage Hopkins. She married Marvin Wayne “Jim” Robertson on Oct. 11, 1953. He survives.
  Also surviving are two daughters, Joyce Briney Foutch of Marion and Lisa Robertson McCutchan of Rushville; two sisters, Lenora Stivers and Mary Lou Trujillo, both of Rushville; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
  She was preceded in death by two sons, Steven Wayne Robertson and James “Joe” Marvin Robertson; one daughter, Tabitha Jane Robertson; one brother, William “Bud” Leroy Hopkins; two sisters, Shirley Moshack and Nancy Hopkins.
  Graveside services were held Saturday at Ridgeville Cemetery near Browning. Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville was in charge of arrangements.
  Condolences may be sent to www.worthingtonfh.com.

Eagle Publication, Macomb, IL, July 16, 2008
 Helen Elizabeth Robertson, 77, Rushville, died at 12:55 a.m., Friday, July 10, 2008, at Heartland Healthcare Center, Macomb.
  Graveside services were held Saturday, July 12, 2008, at Ridgeville Cemetery, near Browning.
  Burial was at the cemetery.
  You may sign the guestbook and leave online condolences, www.worthingtonfh.com.

Peoria Journal Star, July 11, 2008
Robertson, Helen
  RUSHVILLE - Helen Elizabeth Robertson, 77, of Rushville died at 12:55 a.m. Thursday, July 10, 2008, at Heartland Healthcare Center in Macomb.
  Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Ridgeville Cemetery. There will be no other services. Worthington Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Obituary of Marvin "Jim" Wayne Robertson
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Worthington Funeral Home Obituary
 IN MEMORY OF "Jim"
  Marvin Wayne "Jim" Robertson, 88, of R.R. #4, Rushville, passed away at 11:50 a.m. Wednesday, December 24, 2008 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL.
  He was born on Monday, August 16, 1920 in Browning Twp., Schuyler Co., IL.  He was the son of the late Dwight and Bessie Stroops Robertson.  He married Helen Elizabeth Hopkins October 11, 1953 in the front parlor at the home of Helen’s parents in rural Rushville.  She passed away July 10, 2008.
  Surviving are (2) daughters, Joyce Briney Foutch of Marion, IL and Lisa Robertson McCutchan of rural Rushville; a daughter-in-law, Connie Robertson of rural Rushville; (5) grandchildren, Jason Briney, Jennifer Briney Hole, Anna L. Robertson, Olivia Robertson, Cody Foutch; (1) great grandson, Noah S. Robertson.  He was preceded in death by (2) sons, Steven Wayne Robertson and James "Joe" Robertson; (1) daughter, Tabitha Jane Robertson; (1) brother, Edmon "Cotton" Robertson.
  He was an Army Air Force veteran of W.W.II.  Jim was a life long farmer and worked in the construction trades.
  Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 27, 2008 at the Ridgeville Cemetery near Browning, IL.  Military services will be conducted by a US Army Honors Detail and Schuyler American Legion Post #4.  Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Worthington Funeral Home.

Astoria South Fulton Argus, December 31, 2008
Marvin Robertson
  Marvin Wayne “Jim” Robertson, 88, of Rushville died at 11:50 a.m. Dec. 24, 2008, at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.
  He was born Aug. 16, 1920, in Browning Township, Schuyler County, a son of Dwight and Bessie Stroops Robertson. He married Helen Elizabeth Hopkins on Oct. 11, 1953, in rural Rushville. She died July 10, 2008.
  He also was preceded in death by two sons, Steven Wayne Robertson and James “Joe” Robertson; one daughter, Tabitha Jane Robertson; and one brother, Edmon “Cotton” Robertson.
  Surviving are two daughters, Joyce Briney Foutch of Marion and Lisa Robertson McCutchan of rural Rushville; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
  He was an Army Air Force veteran of World War II.
  He was a lifelong farmer and worked in the construction trades.
  Graveside services were held Saturday at Ridgeville Cemetery near Browning. Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville was in charge of arrangements.
  Condolences may be sent to www.worthingtonfh.com.

Eagle Publications, January 2, 2009
Marvin Wayne "Jim" Robertson
  Marvin Wayne "Jim" Robertson, 88, Rushville, died at 11:50 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2008, at St. John’s Hospital, Springfield.
  Graveside services were held Saturday, Dec. 27, 2008, at Ridgeville Cemetery, near Browning.
  You may sign the guestbook and leave online condolences, www.worthingtonfh.com.
Obituary of Helen H. Robertson
News Sun, Waukegan, IL, February 6, 1997
Helen H. Robertson
  Helen H. Robertson, 74, of Gurnee, Illinois, died on February 5, 1997 at Victory Memorial Hospital.
  She was born on November 25, 1922 at Beardstown, Illinois.
  She is survived by her 2 daughters; Sarah Fantozzi of Gurnee, Illinois and Bridgette (Edward) Jackson of Kenosha, Wisconsin; 2 grandchildren, Charles (Angel) Jackson of Kenosha, Wisconsin and Jeffrey Jackson of Kenosha, Wisconsin; 1 great granddaughter, Chelsea Marie Jackson.
  She was preceded in death by her mother Florence Robertson; 2 brothers, James Eads, Calvin Chitroske and 1 sister, Ann Collins.
  Funeral services and visitation will be private on Friday, February 7, 1997 at Marsh Funeral Home Of Gurnee, 305 Cemetery Road, Gurnee, IL, with Rev. Judy Sherk officiating.
  Burial will be held at Warren Cemetery, Gurnee, IL. Memorials may be made to the Dialysis Unit, c/o Victory Memorial Hospital.
Obituary of Laura A. Ippensen Robertson
Eagle Publications, May 30, 2002
Laura A. Robertson
  Laura A. Robertson, 89, formerly of Bowen, died at 12:40 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, 2002, in Golden Good Shepherd Home.
  Born February 1, 1913, in Adams County, the daughter of August C. and Emma Louise Rabe Ippensen. She married Floyd G. Robertson June 1, 1941, in Palmyra, Mo. He died November 26, 1968.
  Surviving are: two daughters, Sharon Parn and husband (Ronnie), Camp Point and Connie Flesner and husband (Gene), Milan; two sons, Larry and wife (Nancy), Kissimmee, Fla. and Vernon and wife (Mary), Bowen; a brother, Alvin Ippenson, Quincy; 15 grandchildren, Teresa Thompson, Julie Hardy, Valerie Flesner, Gena Seberg, Christie Hoffman, Stephanie Garcia, Jennifer Smith, Michelle Kimball, Jon Robertson, Wesley Robertson, Becky Gramley, Brandi Robertson, Lori Johnson, Robin Bell, and Paula Robertson; and 28 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Ervin Ippensen and two sisters, Norma Speckhart and Beulah Ippensen.
  She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Golden and its altar guild and sewing circle. She had also been a member of the LaPrairie Unit of the Adams County Home Bureau.
  Funeral services were Saturday, May 25, 2002 in Immanuel Lutheran Church in Golden by the Rev. Phil Tobin. Organist was Bea Albers. Burial was in Greenmount Cemetery in Quincy. Hunter Funeral Home in golden was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may still be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church or Golden Good Shepherd Home.
Obituary of Charles "Don" Donald Roudebush
Hinchliff-Pearson-West Abingdon Chapel Obituary
Mr. Charles Donald Roudebush, Abingdon Chapel
  Charles Donald Roudebush, 84, a resident of the Gainesville Health and Rehabilitation Center, Gainesville, Virginia, and formerly of Abingdon, IL died on Sunday, October 19, after suffering numerous health problems, including a broken hip.
  Mr. Roudebush was born on July 30, 1924, in Rushville, Illinois, to Dallas A. and Mary Thompson Roudebush. The family moved to Abingdon in 1927.
  He is survived by his sister, Doris (Mrs. Eugene) Black of Gainesville, Virginia. One sister, Marjorie Lou, died in infancy. He leaves also a nephew, Joel E. D. Black of Herndon, Virginia, a niece, Mary Eve (Mrs. Michael) Iwicki of Gaithersburg, MD, and her children, Michael Dallas and Marianne Sophia.
  After graduating with the Abingdon High School Class of 1942, he spent three years in the U.S. Army Signal Corps during World War II, serving in both the European and Far Eastern Theaters of War. He was a 62-year member of the Harry E. Wiles American Legion Post #381. After his discharge from the Army, he attended Western Illinois State College in Macomb, earning his B.S. Ed. in business education in 1950 and his M.S. Ed. in 1952.
  Mr. Roudebush taught high school business education in Bluffs, Illinois, before completing his education and moving to Washington, D. C. in 1952. There he worked for both the U.S. Department of the Army and Department of the Navy as a budget analyst, retiring in 1980.
  Don, as he liked to be called, was a devout Christian and a longtime member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. After retirement, he served the church as an assistant treasurer. He was a voracious reader, a lover of opera, and fond of animals, especially cats. Don very generously contributed to many charities. His giving fed the hungry, aided the poor, sponsored orphans in other countries, and placed Bibles in the hands of those who had none.
  He was devoted to his sister Doris and to her grown children, who will miss their Uncle Don very much.
  Visitation will be held on Friday, October 24, 2008 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at the Hinchliff-Pearson-West Abingdon Chapel. Graveside service will be at 11:30 am Friday at the Abingdon Cemetery, where Mr. Roudebush will be laid to rest beside his parents. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Bible League, 3801 Eagle Nest Drive, Crete, IL 60417, World Vision, P.O. Box 70399, Tacoma, Washington 98481-0399 or a charity of your choice.
  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.

The Register-Mail, Galesburg, IL, October 20, 2008
C. Donald Roudebush          
  ABINGDON - C. Donald Roudebush, 84, Gainesville, Va., formerly of Abingdon died at 1:30 p.m. Sunday (Oct. 19, 2008) in Gainesville Health & Rehab Center.
  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Abingdon Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Obituary of Granville Serff
Rushville Times, June 20, 1912
Death Of Granville Serff
  Granville Serff was born May 19, 1853, in Fulton county, Ill., and died at his home near Rushville, June 14, 1912, at 7:25 p.m., aged 59 years and 29 days.
  While yet a boy he, with his parents, moved into Schuyler county, where he resided permanently. He was married to Nancy Alice Moore of Littleton township, Dec. 25, 1883. To this union was born one son, Henry, who is still living at home.
  In the year of 1900, while living on the Wright farm in Brooklyn township, he was converted and joined the M. E. church at Bethel, under the influence of the preaching of Amos Heffer, where his membership still remains. He was a kind, loving and devoted husband and father, and was always ready to do an act of kindness to his fellowmen. He was conscious until the end came; was ready and longed to go, and his last words were, "Now I lay me down to-sleep," and with a beautiful smile passed calmly and peacefully away.
  His health had been steadily failing for three or four years, but since Dec. 21, 1911, he had been almost constantly in his bed. All was done tht kind, loving hands could do to restore his health but death gained the victory. He leaves to mourn his death a sorrowing wife, and son, a little nephew, Forest Moore, who is making his home with them; one brother, John Serff of Astoria, and one sister, Sarah Elizabeth Pierce of Rushville.
  Those who have preceded him to the better world are his mother, who died May 27, 1872; Nathan Serff, a brother, died Sept. 7, 1874, at sixteen years of age; his father, Abraham Serff of Astoria, who died in 1906.
  Funeral services were held on Sunday at 2 p.m., at the First M. E. church, conducted by Dr. Royal W. Ennis. Text, Psalms 148:7-"Tho I walk in the midst of trouble, Thou wilt revive me." Interment in Rushville cemetery.
Death of Marion Tharpe
The Schuyler Citizen, August 6, 1862
Death of Marion Tharpe
  Tharpe, Marion - This young man, who enlisted last fall in Captain Bredett's company, was suddenly killed while on a scouting expedition in Cass County, Missouri, on the 22d of July, by a guerrilla assassin.  He was the son of Mrs. Tharpe of this vicinity, and well known by many of our citizens.  His afflicted mother and family have the sympathy of our community.  Alas! how terrible the cost that is paid for the permancy and security of our government.  But our patriotic mothers, while their hearts are torn by these melancholy bereavements, only feel the more sensibly the necessity for enduring every needed sacrifice in order to put down those fiendish assassins who are aiming to put down the government.
  We are permitted to make the following extracts from the letter written to Mrs. Tharpe, communicating the news of her son's death:

Independence, Missouri, July 21?, 1862
  Mrs. Anna Tharpe
  Dear Madam:  It is with deep regret and sorrow that I send you the painful news of the death of your son, Marion.  He was killed on the 22nd day of July, by a band of bushwhackers, who fired upon us from the brush near the corners of Jackson and Johnson Counties and the line of Cass County.  The ball struck directly in his breast, killing him instantly.
  We buried him as well as we could under the circumstances, in the burying ground on the farm of the widow Reed, about 5 miles south-east of Pleasant Hill.
  We will send you all of his effects by the first opportunity.  There is considerable pay due him from the paymaster, besides his bounty.  The paymaster will be here to pay us off this week, but his pay cannot be collected without you giving someone here the power to collect for you, which cannot be done in time.
  Marion has left a great many warm friends here, and will long be remembered by them.  He was a good soldier and died as such, without a murmur.
  Yours respectfully, A. B. Clark


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