Coles County Obituaries
Coles County Obituaries
Contribute your family member's obituary by emailing Kim I prefer to post old obituaries rather than new ones to protect the names of the living. If it's a newer obituary, I will try and remove the names of the living.
If you do not see a contributor's name, assume it was an obituary I found
during my research (however, don't assume I'm related to that person named in the obit - very few of my folks who
died in Coles actually had obituaries :-(
I've posted email addresses as a courtesy - unfortunately, people are changing email addys left and right these
days and there is no way I can keep up with them. So if an email addy doesn't work, you'll have to look elsewhere
to try and find a current one. Sorry.....
Alonzo L. Sortwell
Contributed by source
#27
Mason Funeral Notice
Born, at Aurora, Indiana, April 1, 1819, died at Oakland, Illinois, April 21, 1914, aged 65 years and 20 days.
Funeral Services will be held from the M. E. Church, Oakland, Illinois, Wednesday, April 22, at 2 P. M., Rev. C.
R. Morrison, officiating.
Burial in Oakland Cemetery. The Hindsboro and Oakland Lodges A. F. & A. M., will have charge of the services
at the grave. Friends of family invited.
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Tabitha Catherine Adcox Sortwell
Contributed by source
#27
The following brief obituary of the lamented Mrs. A. L. Sortwell was handed us and we gladly give it. Mrs. Sortwell
died in the triumphs of faith and now is happy, but her loved ones are sadly bereaved. May god bless and comfort
them.
Tabitha C. Adcox, daughter of Noah and Matilda Adcox, was born March 9, 1857, in Muhlenburg Co., Ky. She was united
in marriage with A. L. Sortwell, Feb. 10, 1881. Mrs. Sortwell died May 27, 1901, at her home west of Hindboro,
with that dreaded disease, consumption. For a number of years she has been a patient sufferer. All that medical
skill could do was done but without avail. She leaves a husband, seven daughters, a father, mother, four sisters,
and two brothers to mourn her loss. She was converted when about seventeen years of age and united with the M.
E. church soon after her conversion and has remained a member until her death.
"As a loved one we shall again behold her,
clothed with celestial grace,
With all the beauties of her soul expanded,
Standing before her father's face."
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Pearl Sortwell
Contributed by source
#27
Pearl Sortwell Dies of Diptheria
Miss Pearl Sortwell, youngest daughter of A. L. Sortwell, died Monday Dec. 20th, 1909 at the home of her sister
Mrs. C. A. Stuck near Jakes Prairie, Mo. She was born June 2nd, 1895 at Brocton, Ill. being therefore fourteen
years, six months and eighteen days old. She was sick only a few days and as she has tonsilitis every winter the
members of the family did not think of the dread disease until too late. A physician was called and all that medical
skill and loving hands could do for her was done but the death angel claimed her on Monday evening about 5 o'clock.
She was not a member of any church but often wished to be. The last day or two before she died [re]alized that
her stay on earth was drawing to a close. Pearl the ninth daughter leaves her father and six sister, Misses Lottie,
Jessie and Jennie at home and Mrs. C. A. McCoskey at Webster City, Iowa, Mrs. C. A. Stuck of Jacobston, Mo. and
Mrs. J. W. Woodall of Cloverdale, Indiana besides a host of relatives and friends. Her mother preceded her to the
better world May 26, 1901. Pearl was a jolly, industrious girl and was loved and cherished by all who knew her
and was greatly missed by all. She laid to rest Dec. 22nd in the U. P. cemetery at Cuba, Mo.
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Ezekiel Gilbert, Sr
Contributed by source
#1
DEATH CLAIMS OLD RESIDENT
After an illness of about two months duration, Ezekiel Gilbert, Sr., for more than sixty
years a resident of Hutton township, passed away at 1:20 o'clock Thursday morning at his home near Hanson in Shelby
county. The remains will be taken in the morning to the Stringtown church about seven miles southeast of this city,
where the funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon. Interment will follow at Stringtown cemetery.
Ezekiel Gilbert was born in Indiana nearly 80 years ago. While yet a young lad he accompanied his parents to this
county, settling in Hutton township. Here he grew to manhood and took upon himself a wife, who preceded him in
death just six months and one day, dying on Feb. 5, 1908. Eight children were born as a result of this union, all
of whom survive. They are Coleman and Oscar Gilbert, of Hanson; Joseph Gilbert of Hutton; Mrs. Sarah Bennett, Hutton;
Mrs. A. Brandenburg, Forrest City, Ark.; Mrs. Emma Levitt, Mrs. Rosa Ingram, Delaware, Okla.; and Mrs. Provencal
of Kankakee.
The deceased will be remembered by many of the old residents of this county, himself being one of the first. About
five years ago he removed from Hutton to Shelby County where and his son Oscar lived together. He was a member
of the Christian church of Stringtown, from which church his funeral was held. Charleston Courier, 8 Aug 1908,
page 6, Col. 4
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James Wright
Contributed by source
#25
Funeral services in memory of the late James Wright, Charleston's venerable citizen and
a resident of this county for 88 years, were held from the home of the son, Lee Wright, 1115 Jackson street, at
2 o'clock this afternoon with the Rev. John McD. Horne, pastor of the First Christian church officiating. Long
before the hour named for the holding of the services many friends of the family assembled at the home for the
purpose of paying their respects to the deceased. Sixty-one years of his life had been spent in this city, and
he was well and favorably known by many of our people. Floral offerings from all parts of the country and city
served as the silent testimonials of the esteem in which deceased was held
Impressive rites were held and at the conclusion of the services, William Wyeth, R.P. Hackett, E.T. Glassco, James
H. McClelland, J.T. Lee and Andrew Craig, long time friends of the deceased, served as pallbearers escorted the
remains from the home to the hearse and accompanied the body to Mound cemetery where they lowered the remains into
the grave, beside those of the wife who was called eight years before.
A large cortege of sorrowing friends accompanied the relatives to the cemetery where they witnessed the ceremonies
that marked the passing of another pioneer from our midst.
James Wright, son of John and Hannah Wiley Wright was born in Bracken county, Ky., Feb. 25, 1826. He came with
his parents to Illinois in the fall of 1828. The family first stopped on Big Creek, Edgar county, and in 1829 moved
to Coles county arriving here in the spring of that year. They located in the Dudley settlement, 8 miles east of
Charleston, where he made his home until 1851, at which time he came to Charleston, then a small hamlet, and opened
the first wagon and carriage shop here. He was a skilled worker in this line of work and his shop was always a
scene of hum and industry. On April 4, 1854, he was united in marriage to Miss Lucy Poulter of Kansas, Ill, and
this union was blessed with four children, two sons and two daughters, G.L. Wright, Oscar F. Wright, Mary Belle
Fuller and Lou Ella Graham, the three preceding him to the grave. Mrs. Wright passed away in Charleston, Feb 26,
1909. He is survived by one son, G.Lee Wright of Charleston, three grandchildren, Mrs. Maud Graham McLeod of Granite
City, Ill, Frank A. Wright of Des Moines, IA and Helen Ann Wright of Charleston.
Mr. Wright, who had been a member of the Christian church since 1849 was one of the organizers of the First Christian
church of Kansas, Ill. He was found laboring on the side of the right and was an active member of his church until
he was well advanced in years. The Charleston Daily Courier, Feb. 17, 1917, p1, c5
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Alonzo Folk
Is Laid to Rest
Contributed by source
#25
Business professional and commercial men as well as many other citizens of Charleston were present at the First Methodist church at 2:30 o'clock this afternoon to attend the funeral services held for the late Alonzo Folk, a business man and respected citizen of Charleston who passed away at the family residence Wednesday evening. The services were conducted by the Rev. G.W. Flagge, pastor of the church, who paid a timely tribute to the memory of the deceased as a church man, a business man, a home man and a respected man. Many beautiful floral offerings from out of town and Charleston friends covered the casket and filled a carriage. The remains were laid to rest in Mound cemetery. Charles E. Winter, Charles B. Mitchell, Allen C. Bagley, Charles Griffith, Frank M. McCrory and A.W. Shera were the pall bearers. The Charleston Daily Courier, Feb. 17, 1917, p1, c5
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Ida May Curl & Bessie Louise Curl
The Charleston Daily Courier, Charleston, Illinois
Monday, April 26, 1920 Afternoon Edition
Sisters Instantly Killed at Loxa R.R. Crossing
Contributed by source
#147
_____________
Miss Ida May Curl, aged 16, and her sister, Miss Bessie Louise Curl, aged 15, both of Loxa,
were struck and instantly killed in Loxa about 3:50 o'clock Sunday afternoon by the Southwestern Limited passenger
train, No. 11, on the Big Four railroad.
The enginemen were ignorant of the fact that anyone had been struck until I.A. Black, an expressman in Mattoon
called the attention of Engineer Foster to the body of the younger girl on the pilot of the engine. Fireman Jett
was also ignorant of the fact that any one had been struck.
The girls had gone to the interurban station at Loxa to see their cousin, Otto Johnson off for Mattoon and welcome
another cousin, Arch Chism, who had been the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Silas Chism of Charleston to their home. The
girl accompanied Mr. Chism to the home of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Curl, who reside in the old Lee home
in Loxa, where he remained until a later car. On his departure from the Curl home he was accompanied by the two
young women. On reaching the station Chism boarded the car for Mattoon. It is presumed that the Misses Curl on
leaving the car had reached the center of the Big Four tracks and turned to wave adieu to their cousin and failed
to notice the approach of the Big Four train bearing down on them.
The limited was running an hour late and traveliig at a high rate of speed. The crossing bell was ringing and George
Armstrong, operator at the station, and Homer Baker a by-stander saw the train coming and shouted to the girls
who did not hear them.
The girls were the only daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Curl who moved to Loxa two years ago from Kentucky. The bodies
were taken to the Schilling undertaking parlors where an inquest was held today. The train was in charge of Engineer
Foster, Conductor Buchanan and Fireman Jett all of Indianapolis.
The older girl was badly mutilated. She was hurled 300 feet west of the crossing, her body alighting on the south
side of the track. The left leg was cut off at the shoe top. Her face and body were badly bruised and mangled.
The younger girl who was struck with such a force that her body was hurled into the air in front of the speeding
locomotive and her lifeless body was dropped on the pilot of the engine and was carried into Mattoon.
The funeral services will be held in Loxa Wednesday morning. The Big Four management will stop eastbound passenger
train, No. 16, at Loxa, shortly before noon Wednesday and the bodies of the two girls will be placed aboard and
will be taken to Stephens Port, Ky., their birth place, for burial.
Mr. and Mrs. Curl, who came to Coles county about two years ago, resided near the old Lee Academy. Mr. Curl was
employed on the Loxa Big Four section and Ida May, the older girl was employed in the Brown shoe factory in Charleston
for six week, resigning her place early in April. Bessie Louise attended North Loxa school. Both girls were attendants
at the Loxa Presbyterian Sunday school. Besides the parents the dead girls are survived by four brothers.
It is stated that the accident happened on the fireman's side of the engine, and the fireman was busy throwing
coal into the firebox. This explains why neither of the two men witnessed the awful accident. It has often been
commented on that the street crossing the Big Four and interurban tracks are highly dangerous, made doubly so by
the high speed maintained by Big Four trains passing through that place.
The Funeral Services.
The funeral services were held at 4 o'clock this afternoon in Loxa by the Rev. Lively, pastor of the Mattoon Baptist
church. The remains will be taken to Stephen Port, Kentucky, leaving Loxa about midnight tonight.
**NOTE -- Ida May and Bessie Louise's parents were Charles M. and Irma Pauline Chism Curl. They had four brothers
surviving them at the time of their death: Clarence, Albert, Amon and Charles. They were interred into Parr Cemetery,
Meade County, Kentucky - not Stevensport, KY. According to their death certificates, Ida May was born May 2, 1903
- age at death listed as 16 years and Bessie Louise was born September 18, 1902 - age at death listed as 15 years.**
Henry J. Bailey
Contributed by source
#133
Henry J. Bailey was born in Vermillion County, Indiana, October 1, 1831, died at the home
of his son, Chas. W. Bailey, April 18, 1919, being 87 years, 6 months and 18 days old.
He was united in marriage to Sarah Jane Myers, January 25, 1855, to this union were born 10 children, three of
which preceded him to the great beyond.
He leaves to mourn his departure, five sons and two daughters, besides a host of other relatives.
He united with the U.B. Church in the year 1877, since which time he has been a constant worker in his great cause
for right, and Christian work. We as sons and daughters who learned to love him, feel sure that our loss is his
eternal gain. Milan Republican Newspaper.
Debra Athon Mckim (source #133) adds: "Henry J. Bailey married Sarah Jane Myers in Coles Co., Ill. He is a brother to Elijah
R. Bailey and is buried at Asbury Cem. in Sullivan Co., Mo."
BARTHOLOMEW "THOLL" ANDERSON
Unknown Newspaper, probably Charleston
Amanda Jan.10,1865-May 16,1930 married Mar. 10,1881
Bartholomew Anderson, aged 72 years, well known Hutton township farmer, residing here for the past four years,
and known by relatives and friends as "Tholl," died at the Anderson residence, 218 Third St. at 10:20
o'clock on Sunday night after an illness of 4 years.
Mr. Anderson, who resided on a farm in Hutton for some years, and on a farm near the Charleston water-works for
35 years, began to fail in health four years ago, and moved to Charleston. 11 weeks ago he took his bed and was
bedfast since that time. Mr. Anderson did not suffer from his illness, however, until Sunday, the day on which
he passed away. The cause of his death is attributed to general complications.
The funeral services will be held at the First United Brethren church in Charleston at 10 o'clock on Wednesday
morning. The Reverend Murray Stone, of Charleston, former schoolmate and close friend, will officiate. Burial will
be made in Mt. Zion cemetery, as known as the Kickapoo cemetery, south of Charleston. Mr. Anderson is survived
by his widow, Manda Anderson, a daughter, Mrs. George (Cora) Kirkling, of Terre Haute, Ind., a son, Audley Anderson
of Charleston, and two grandchildren, Berle McAdams, Chicago, and Audley Anderson Jr.
He was born in Hutton township on March 7, 1855, a son of Elias and Clarinda Walker Anderson, and a member of a
family of 12 children. Mr. Anderson was the last to pass away, a sister, Mrs. Rachel Frizzel, of Terre Haute dying
a year ago last fall. Mr. Anderson, who grew to manhood on the farm where he was born, engaged in farming the old
homestead, later moving to a farm on the water-works lane, where the family resided for 35 years. Four years ago
they moved to Charleston. On March 10, 1881, he was united in marriage to Miss Manda M. McKenzie, of Charleston.
Four children blessed this union, the two older dying in infancy.
He was a member of the Odd Fellows lodge for more than 40 years and always attended the meetings when possible.
He was a member of the Baptist faith for many years, but when he came to Charleston a few years ago he joined the
United Brethren church.
Mr. Anderson was well known, respected, and lived to a ripe age, and lived a life that was well spent. [contributed by SRC #154, who says: Freeman Biggs & Almira Vandevanter were my great
great grandparents, Clarinda Walker & Elias Anderson my third great grand parents. Amanda's dates were: b.
Jan.10,1865; d. May 16,1930.]
FREEMAN BIGGS
The Charleston Daily Courier, April 24, 1903
|
Daniel Biggs and Almira Vandevender Biggs (wife of Freeman) |
FREEMAN BIGGS - DIED EARLY THIS MORNING; CORONER SUMMONED TO HOLD INQUEST. Freeman Biggs of Hutton died at five o'clock this morning at his home, seven or eight miles southeast of the city. There seemed to be some mystery as to the circumstances surrounding his death, as Coroner Kershaw was summoned this morning to hold an inquest over his remains, and at once started on his overland journey. From the best information that could be obtained by telephone, Mr. Biggs was taken suddenly sick at three o'clock this morning and died, apparently, from natural causes two hours later. The deceased was about 80 years of age and one of the typical pioneers of the county and a quaint character who was well known throughout all this section of the county. Many will better recall him when we state he was the champion squirrel shot of the county. He was an honorable and industrious man and highly regarded by all who knew him. At press time, Coroner Kershaw had not returned and further particulars of the death are not known. April 25, 1903..... The funeral of Freeman Biggs was held this morning at Liberty church at 10 o'clock. The remains were buried in Liberty grave yard. The inquest held Friday resulted in a verdict that death was due to heart disease. |
RUSSELL AXTON
The Charleston Courier
DIED THIS AFTERNOON AT PARENTS HOME
Russell, the 13-months-old child of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Axton, living nine and one-half miles southeast of Charleston,
in Hutton township, died this afternoon (October 4, 1917) at 2 o'clock, after a few weeks' illness of summer complaint.
The funeral arrangements have not been made as yet, but will be published in tomorrow's issue of The Courier. Besides
his parents, he is survived by brother, Chester, six sisters, Mrs. Blanche Huffman, Mrs. Fern Fare, Mrs. Ersel
Black, Modeline, Juanita and Thelma Axton. [contributed by src
#154]
Funeral services for Mrs. Laura Axton were held at 2 pm Thursday at the Coffeyville Pilgrim Holiness Church, with
Rev. Elmer Waltrip and Rev. Sam Calloway officiating.
Organist Mrs. David Swickard accompanied Mr. and Mrs. Sam Harper as they sang "Meet Me There" and "Will
the Circle Be Unbroken."
Casket bearers and flower assistants were Raymond Pforr, Floyd Pforr, Dean Huffman, Robert Pearch, Kenneth Pforr
and Wayne Robinson of Robinson.
Burial was in Hurricane Cemetery. Mrs. Axton died Tuesday (November 13, 1962).
================================
Mrs. Laura B. Axton, 86, Route One, Greenup, died at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the home of her son, Chester, in Greenup.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Coffeyville Pilgrim Holiness Church, six miles south of
Charleston on the Lincoln Memorial Highway. Burial will be in Hurricane Cemetery.
Friends may call at the Axton residence after 4 p.m. today. The Harper-Swickard funeral directors are in charge
of the arrangements.
Mrs. Axton was born May 26, 1876 in Hutton Township, a daughter of Freeman and Almira (VanDeventer) Biggs. Surviving
besides her son, Chester, are six daughters, Mrs. Blanche Cox, Trilla; Mrs. Fern Behl, Charleston; Mrs. Ersa Smith,
Dwight; Mrs. Maudline Robison, Kansas; Mrs. Juanita Qullin, Houston, Texas; and Mrs. Thelma Bates, Escondido, Calif;
and a brother George Biggs. Her husband, Thomas, died in 1941. [contributed by src #154]
THOMAS AXTON
[May 12, 1865-Mar. 18, 1941]
DEATH COMES TO THOMAS AXTON, 75
Thomas Axton, 75, a widely known former resident of Hutton township, died at his home in Pleasant Grove township
near the Mt. Tabor Community, south of Charleston, at 7:45 o'clock Wednesday evening following a serious illness
of two weeks. He had been in failing health for sometime.
The body, removed to the Harper-Swickard Funeral Home for burial preparation was returned tot he family home this
(Thursday) afternoon to await funeral rites which will be held 10:30 o'clock Saturday morning at the Coffeyville
church, south of Charleston. Burial will be in Hurricane cemetery in Hutton township.
Mr. Axton was born on a farm in Hutton township May 12, 1865, a son of Alex and Clarinda Anderson Axton. Early
in life he turned to farming which he made his lifelong vocation, retiring from active farm work only a few years
ago. On December 3, 1890 he was united in marriage with Laura Bates, he and his wife making Hutton township their
home all of their married life until three years ago at which time they moved to their present home in Pleasant
Grove township.
Surviving Mr. Axton are: his widow, one son, Chester Axton of Hutton township; six daughters, Mrs. Blanche Huffman
of Charleston, Mrs. Fern Pforr of Fair Grange, Mrs. Erza Black of Streator, Mrs. Maudeline Robinson of Kansas,
Mrs. Juanita Quillan of Hume, and Mrs. Thelma Sparks of Ojai, Cal; 21 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren,
and one sister, Mrs. Emma Nees of Charleston. [contributed by src
#154]
Charles O. Ripley, 86, Indianapolis, died Feb. 28. He was a retired railroad conductor. He was a member of Elks
Lodge and Transport Workers Union. Graveside services: 10:30 a.m. March 3, in Dodge Grove Cemetery. Mattoon, IL.
Calling: none. He was the widower of Helen E. Howard Ripley. Survivor: friend Hiram Umbanhowar; Mitchell-Jordan
Funeral Home. Mattoon is handling arrangements. The Indianapolis Star, Tuesday, March 5, 1999, Pg B-4 [contributed
by Src. #144]
Gay Thomason
Charleston, July 17, 1986
Mrs. Gay Thomason, 89, of Charleston, died at 8:25 p.m. Tuesday (July 15, 1986) in Cambridge Court Nursing Center
in Charleston. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at Harper-Swickard Funeral Home. Burial will be in Hurricane
Cemetery in Hutton Township....
She was born Nov. 20, 1896, in Coles County, the daughter of James and Ida Wright Biggs. She married Robert Thomason
Dec. 30, 1914 in Coles County. He died April 14, 1976.
Survivors include three sons, Robert Thomason Jr. of Raymondville, Mo., and Don and Rex Thomason, both of Charleston;
two daughters, Mrs. Iola Phillips and Mrs. Geneva Tichenor, both of Charleston; two brothers, Herschel and Dale
Biggs, both of Pigeonforge, Tenn; one sister, Mrs. Chloral Scott of Las Vegas; 20 grandchildren, 39 great-grand
children;a and three g-g-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one son, one daughter and ten brothers and sisters.
She was a retired employee of the Brown Shoe Company in Charleston with 17 years of service and a member of the
East Harrison Street Church of God for more than 50 years. [contributed by Src. #154]
Robert Thomason
Charleston - 15 Apr 1976
Robert 'Bob' Thomason, 79, of 715 20th St. died at 6:55 a.m. Wednesday at his home.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday in the Harper-Swickard Chapel with burial in the Hurricane Cemetery,
south of Charleston....
Mr. Thomason was born Nov. 8, 1896, in Coles County, a son of Jessie and Jane Chancellor Thomason. He married Gay
Biggs on Dec. 30, 1914, in Charleston. She survives.
Also surviving are four sons, Tommy, Don and Rex, all of Charleston, and Robert, Jr., of Raymondville, Mo; two
daughters, Mrs. harry (Iola) Phillips, and Mrs. Bill (Geneva) Tichenor, both of Charleston; one sister, Mrs. Goldie
Taylor of Hawaii; 20 grandchildren, 26 great-grand children; and one g-g-grandchild. One daughter preceded him
in death.
Mr. Thomason was a member of the East Harrison Street Church of God. He was a retired employee of the Brown Shoe
Co.... [contributed by Src. #154]
Ross Moore, 46, of Chrisman, and farmer in this vicinity for five years, died at 4:10 a.m. Sunday (June 16, 1957)
in Paris hospital where he was taken one week ago for a heart ailment.
The deceased was born at Janesville, Ill., July 3, 1910, the son of William and Bertha Jenkins Moore and was married
Oct. 9, 1942, to Betty Robinson, who survives with five children, Brenda, Donna, Stephen, Billy Joe and Danny,
all at home, four sisters, Mrs. Lula Wheeler, Mrs. Ethel Craig, Miss Inez Moore and Mrs. Margaret Pipkins, all
of Charleston; and two brothers, Herman and Russell of Charleston.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.
Mr. Moore, a member of Chrisman American Legion No. 477, served in the Air Force in W.W.II. He was a member of
the Ridgefarm Church of Christ.
Funeral services were held at 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon at the Chrisman Christian church, Larry Doggett, pastor,
officiating. He was assisted by the Rev. Mr. Miller of Danville. During the service, Mrs. Russell Chainey sang
"Ivory Palaces.'
Burial was in Fairview cemetery at Kansas, Scott funeral home in charge of arrangements.
Pallbearers were Don Harwood, Owen Curtis, Eugene Taylor, Wayne Craig, Robert Malaise and Marshall Sparks.....
Elmer Jarred served as chaplain and Homer Wolfe as squad leader. The firing squad was composed of Johnny Ayres,
William Mankin, Roy Thompson, Elmer Good, Roy Hendrix, Fred Yates and Richard Ellis. Color bearers were Ira Craig
and Raymond Hawkins; color guards, Wilbur Yates and Kenneth D. Knicley. Buglers were Richard Pyle and Jeff Emmons.
[contributed by Src. #154]
James Biggs, aged about 53 years, died at his home in Salisbury about midnight Monday (March 6,1923), following
an illness of Bright's disease and heart trouble. The funeral services will not be completed until word from a
son in Indiana is received. Besides his wife, he is survived by 10 children, namely; Huber, of Hutton; Otto, of
Meadowsville, Ind; Iva Melton, Kansas; Misses Mabel and Flora at home; Mrs. Hazel Meek, at Ashmore; Herschel, Dale
and Carroll, at home, and Mrs. Gay Thomason of Charleston. [contributed by Src. #154]
W. J. Morgan passed away Sunday afternoon at Union hospital in Terre Haute following a surgical
operation on the previous Thursday. H. A. Sudduth, the local undertaker, went to Terre Haute Sunday evening and
brought the remains back to this city. Mr. Morgan had been in poor health for some time and during the past few
weeks had failed rapidly. The operation was thought to be the only means of saving his life, but it was not to
be. Mr. Morgan's death caused sorrow to many hearts, for he was a man who had many warm friends and was highly
respected to this community. His long and faithful service as clerk of the local Woodman lodge is noted in the
obituary published below:
About six miles west and south from Oakland, near what is now Union church, were the pioneer homes of the Taylors,
the Collins, the McAllisters, the Beasleys, and James and Clarissa Morgan, the parents of William J. Morgan, the
subject of this obituary. These old pioneers, with many others, rest peacefully in beautiful cemetery, near the
site of the Morgan home, so carefully and beautifully cared for by their posterity. Wm. Morgan was born in the
old home February 21st. 1855. He was one of five brothers, three of whom are living, Leonard of Pasa Ill., Melvin
of Georgetown, Ill., and David of Charleston.
William was joined in holy wedlock with Miss Agnes Annin December 18, 1877. Two daughters, Mrs. Minnie Sicafus
of Ashville, North Carolina, and Mrs. Maude Vandeventer of Champaign, Ill., six grandchildren and two great grandchildren
have been born into the home life and are left to comfort the widowed wife and mother. Mr. Morgan joined the Cumberland
Presbyterian church in early life and was a faithful member until death. He and his wife came to Oakland about
four years after their marriage and have resided here ever since.
He was a member of Live Timber Camp No. 817 M. W. A. and clerk of that Camp for 23 years and by permission of the
family and at the request of some of the elderly neighbors of this Woodman Camp, we pause here to meditate upon
the lessons taught in the life and service of this deceased neighbor as it pertained to the principals of Woodcraft.
The bereaved family are the mute witnesses of his parental love and care. The 360 members at this Camp, representing
over $700,000 protection to this number of families, is the memorial of this faithful service and watchful care
and honest administration of his important trust. Neighbors may this practical demonstration of the beautiful teachings
of your ritual deeply impress your hearts and minds. Some day your steps will falter and slow down, your strong
arm fail and the bread winner in your home fold his helpless hands. We do not know on whom shoulders the mantle
of authority as clerk of this Camp may fall, but wherever it may rest, may it be worn with the same fidelity to
trust as it has by Neighbor Morgan who has wearily laid aside and passed to his reward at the Union hospital in
Terre Haute, March 8, 1825. Our Camp lost a faithful neighbor and officer, the community a kind, exemplary citizen
and friend; his family the loyal husband and loving father, the church a member faithful unto to his death to his
early teachings and ideals.
Funeral services were conducted from the Oakland M. E. church, Thursday afternoon, March 12, at 2:00 o'clock, Rev.
D. C. Carnahan, of Terre Haute, and Dr. Luce officiating, following which the remains were laid to rest in the
Oakland cemetery. Services were under the auspices of the Modern Woodmen lodge. Oakland Messenger, Thursday March
12, 1925
Simeon M. Rennels, 84, native of Hutton township, widely known and highly respected farmer
and livestock producer, residing 6 miles southeast of Charleston, was found dead in his barn yard about 7 o'clock
Monday evening. It was believed that his death, due to a heart ailment, occurred about two hours earlier. He had
been in failing health for some time. The body, taken to the Harper-Swickard Funeral Home, will be returned to
the Rennels' residence at 5 o'clock this afternoon, where friends may call. Funeral services will be held at the
Whetstone church at 2:30 Wednesday afternoon. The burial will be in the Liberty cemetery.
Mr. Rennels, son of Riley and Mary Jane Gilbert Rennels, born in Hutton township, April 3, 1860, was married to
Miss Laura Ingram, January 16, 1886. 7 children were born to the union, 3 having preceded their father in death.
Mrs. Rennels died several years ago. Mr. Rennels leaves a son, Arlin Rennels, of Hutton, 3 daughters, Mrs. A.H.
Schlenker of Tulsa, Okla., Mrs. Alex Blakley of Gary, Ind., and Miss Oma Rennels at home. He also leaves 3 grandchildren,
Arlin Rennels, Jr., a prisoner of war in a German camp; Mrs. Maxine Frame of Ottawa, Ill., and Robert Schlenger
of Tulsa, Okla. Ivan Rennels and Walter Rennels, both of Hutton township, are surviving half-brothers, and Mrs.
Viva Tremble of Charleston is a half sister.
Mr. Rennels, for years a leader in the republican politics of Hutton, was engaged in extensive...?... farming and
dealing in livestock. He was considered to be an expert in producing and raising sheep for the city markets. It
is estimated that he had marketed several thousand head of sheep during his life time.
He was a regular attendant at the Whetstone church and had attended the Sunday school and evening services held
at the church last Sunday. He had made a business visit to Charleston the Saturday before.
Mr. Rennels was a kindly man in nature, enjoyed the friendship of his friends and their jokes. He permitted every
one the right to enjoy his own opinions and was not given to arguments.
Hutton township and Coles county has lost a time honored man and citizen. [contributed by Src. #154]
HUTTON - Mr. Tella Rennels, 93, of Hutton, died at 3:15 p.m. thursday in the Charleston Community Hospital. He
was a retired farmer.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Lewis Funeral Home, with the Rev. Dean Dolash officiating.
Burial will be in Roselawn Cemetery. ...
Mr. Rennels was born Oct. 9, 1875 in Hutton Twp, the son of Edmund and Angeline Davis Rennels. He was united in
marriage to Mary Maude Goble on Sept. 5, 1901. She preceded him in death April 16, 1950.
He was one of 11 children, all others having preceded him in death.
Mr. Rennels' grandfather, James Rennels, and his grandmother, Polly Connelly Rennels, came to Hutton Township in
1832 and settled on section 32, which later became known as the "Rennels Settlement." They, with their
son, Edmund, were among the earliest settlers of Coles County. The double fireplace in the shelter house at Morton
Park was built by James Rennels in 1836.
Mr. Rennels was born in the red brick house east of the Five Mile House, which was built by his father, Edmund
Rennels, in 1868.
Having led an active life, Mr. Rennels had a keen interest in people and happenings in his community, state and
country. His father donated the land for the Whetstone Baptist Church and Tella was reared in that faith, which
he had during his long life.
Mr. Rennels had been in ill health since Jan. 3, when he suffered a fractured hip. He is survived by several nieces
and nephews. [contributed by Src. #154]
Bessie V. Reynolds
16 Feb 1971
CHARLESTON - Funeral services for Bessie V. Reynolds were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday in the Harper-Swickard chapel
with the Rev. Mr. H.L. Hayes officiating. ...Casket bearers were Don Walters, Billie, Leslie and Steven Reynolds,
and Raymond and Paul Plummer. Burial was in Drummond Cemetery near Neoga.
Mrs. Reynolds, 65 of Charleston, died Saturday in .... [end of obit] [contributed by Src. #154]
Mrs. Lovisa Biggs Wilson
d. July 8, 1960
Mrs. Lovisa Biggs Wilson, 97, died at 5:45 p.m. Friday at the Wilson-Kaley Nursing Home.
Services will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the Harper-Swickard funeral home, 820 Monroe street, with Rev. H.L. Hayes
officiating. Burial will be in Hurricane cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after 7 p.m. today.
Mrs. Wilson was born in Hutton township April 16, 1863, a daughter of Freeman and Almira Vantiventer. She was married
to Arch R. Wilson in 1880. She was a member of the Stringtown Christian church and lived most of her life in Hutton
township.
She is survived by sons, Arthur, Walter, Guy, Clarence and Jesse, all of Charleston; a sister, Mrs. Laura Axton,
Charleston; a brother, George Biggs, Charleston; 13 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren and 8 g-g-grandchildren.
[contributed by Src. #154]
Imogene [Wiley] Walker
d. August 31, 1924
....[first part of obit missing] Following the closing of the beautiful solemn and impressive
services, the pall bearers, James Wiley, Owen Rankin, Muriel Winkleblack, Stephen Turner, Virgil Turner and Clifford
Turner, all nephews, carried the casket to the waiting motor hearse and a long cortege of sorrowing relatives and
friends followed the remains to their last resting place in Mound Cemetery.
Mrs. Imogene (Wiley) Walker, daughter of the late Aden Wiley, was born in Ashmore township, December 23, 1861,
and died in Charleston, Ill., August 31, 1924, aged 62 years, 8 months, 8 days. She was married to George W. Walker,
February 15, 1883 and 5 children blessed this union. The surviving children are: Mrs. Edgar Barr, Fresno, Calif.,
Mrs. J.J. Collins, Chicago; Lawrence Walker, Charleston, and Miss Lola Walker of Chicago. A daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth
Shoemaker, born December 23 1884, died in Los Angeles, California, June 18, 1823 and the remains were cremated
and sent to this city a few weeks following her death. Following a request of Mrs. Shoemaker, the remains of the
daughter were buried with those of the mother this afternoon. The mother and daughter were born on the same day
of the month, and their burial rites occurred together.
Besides the husband and children, other survivors are: Mrs. Will White of Westfield and Mrs. Francis Claridge of
Mattoon, sisters, and George Wiley and R.O. Wiley of Charleston, and Ben Wiley, of Decatur, are brothers. Mrs.
Fountain Turner, a sister, and J.Y. Wiley and J.N. Wiley, brothers, have preceded her in death.
Mrs. Walker, who had made Charleston her home for many years, was highly respected by all. She was all that is
defined in a loving, dutiful and trusting wife and mother, an excellent citizen and neighbor. She was a member
of the United Brethren church for years and was active in the work of her church. In passing from her useful lie
on this earth, Mrs. Walker leaves to her family a most excellent remembrance of the long home duty that was always
for the care and comfort of her family circle, and the members of her family circle, and the members of her family
repaid her successful efforts by maintaining their places in the respected and honored citizenship of their communities.
[contributed by Src. #154]
Mrs. Ella Newell, 90, died about 1:30 p.m. today in the Charleston nursing home, where she had been a resident
since October of 1957. She suffered a stroke last Friday and had been bedfast since that time.
Mrs. Newell was born Feb. 8, 1868 in Hutton township, a daughter of Edmund and Evangeline Rennels. She had resided
in this area all of her life. Her husband Thomas Newell, died in 1912. She came to Charleston in 1941.
Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Agnes McConnell of Hutton township and Mrs. Lorraine Everhart of Indianapolis,
Ind; 5 sons, Tella, Elwood; Russell of Windsor; Ed, Roy and Earl, of Charleston; 2 sisters, Mrs. Dadle Kelly, also
a patient in the Charleston Nursing home and Mrs. Pearl Anderson of Charleston; a brother Tella Rennels of near
Charleston; several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Mrs. Newell was a lifelong member of the Whetstone Baptist church.
Services will be held Friday at 2 p.m. probably in Liberty church with burial in Liberty cemetery. Friends may
call at the Lewis Funeral Home, 815 Jackson street after 2 p.m. Thursday. [contributed by Src. #154]
Aged 72 years, widow of the late Boen Gobin, who died 10 years ago, died at her home in Hutton township at 11:30
on Sunday forenoon, after a 3 year illness. Mrs. Gobin, who was injured in a fall at that time, never fully recovered,
and although she was not bedfast, she was not able to be about much.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon at the Hurricane Baptist church. Burial will be made
in the Hurricane cemetery.
Mrs. Gobin is survived by a brother, Nelson Martin, of Hutton, and two sisters, Mrs. Laura B. Montgomery of near
Mattoon and Mrs. R.E. Burt of Champaign, Ill.
She was a well-known Coles county resident, born in Hutton township, where she was also reared, and she spent 22
years in Pleasant Grove township in Coles county. Mrs. Gobin was a member of the Hurricane Baptist Church. [contributed
by Src. #154]
Passed away at his home south of this city Tuesday evening after an illness of several weeks during a part of which
time he was a patient in the Charleston hospital.
The funeral service was held this (Thursday) afternoon at 2 o'clock in the Christian church in charge of the Rev.
B.S.M. Edwards, who was assisted by the Rev. F. Arthur Grunewald, pastor of Kansas Presbyterian church. Mrs. George
Kirchner rendered the processional and recessional.
bearers were Frank Nay, Arthur Wilholt, George Boyars, C. W. Sallee, Charles Pinnell and Elba Richeson. Flowers
were in charge of members of the Silver Circle class of the Christian Sunday school.
Interment was made in Pleasant Hill cemetery.
Mr. Nay, son of Ezra and Ellen Nay, was born near Kansas Nov. 23, 1866, and passed away at the age of 74.
On Feb 15, 1894, he was united in marriage with Rose E. Boyer, to which union were born two daughters, Mrs. J.O.
Inman, of Pendelton, Ind., and Mrs. Kenneth Dotterer, of Indianapolis. The wife and mother passed away at Battle
Creek, Mich., on July 24, 1909.
On Oct. 18, 1911, Mr. Nay was married to Adak K. Hite, of Kansas, who together with the two daughters, survive
him
Mr. Nay made his confession of faith in Christ many years ago, taking membership in the Pleasant Hill church, from
which he moved his membership Oct. 13, 1907, and united with the Kansas Christian church, in which he has been
a valued member and supporter. For many years he has served on the board of deacons and the church has had no more
faithful and consistent member and officer.
Besides his wife, Mrs. Adak K. Nay, and the two daughters, Mrs. Lola E. Dotterer, and Mrs. June Florence Inman,
there survive two sisters, Mrs. Ray Pinnell and Mrs. O.G. Arterburn, of Kansas, a brother, Merritt Nay of Manhattan,
Kans., and a host of other relatives and friends who mourn his departure. [contributed by Src. #154]
Mrs. Sylvia Ett Smock
[c. 1959]
[aged] 84, Route 1, Casey, died about 2:10 a.m. today in the Adkins nursing home, where she had been a patient
the past 3 years.
Services will be held Sunday at 2:30 p.m. in the Coffeyville Pilgrim Holiness church with burial in Mound cemetery.
Friends may call at the Harper-Swickard Funeral Home after 4 p.m. today and at the home of a granddaughter, Mrs.
Gene Sims and Mr. Sims, Route 1, Casey after 2 p.m. Saturday, where the body will be taken at that time.
Mrs. Smock was born Jan. 27, 1875 in Hutton Township, a daughter of Isaac and Martha Kerans Bennett. Her husband,
Charles Smock, preceded her in death 12 years ago.
A son and daughter died in infancy and a daughter, Mrs. Jessie Lee, died in December of 1943.
Surviving are two sisters, Mrs. Myrtle Justice of Toledo and Mrs. Clusta Sims of Paris; 3 brothers, Joe Bennett
of Charleston, Banner Bennett of Humboldt and Bryan Bennett of Rardin; 4 granddaughters, Mrs. Grover (Barbara)
Milburn, Bushton, Mrs. Gene (Mary) Sims, Casey; Mrs. Bill (Martha) Boaz, Charleston; and Mrs. Gerald (Dorothea)
Ferguson, Ashmore; 3 grandsons, Elmer J. Lee land Robert Lee, Charleston; and Daniel Lee, Santa Paula, Calif. Elmer
Lee, Route 1, Casey is a son-in-law.
Mrs. Smock was a member of the Coffeyville Pilgrim Holiness church. [contributed by Src. #154]
of Charleston passed away at 9 p.m. Monday evening at the home of his son Ray Pinnell, south
of Kansas. He had been ill for the past few weeks, and a few days ago was removed to the home of his son. The funeral
service was held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home of his son, in charge of the Rev. H.L. Hayes, pastor
of the Paris Christian church. Bearers were Charles Pinnell, H.C. Phipps, Homer Pinnell, O.G. Arterburn, John W.
Brown and Roy Laws.
Interment was in Pleasant Hill cemetery.
Willis O. Pinnell, son of W.I. S. and Martha Pulter Pinnell, was born Mar. 28, 1859, and would have been 82 years
of age his next birthday. In December of 1880 he was united in marriage with Anna B. Huber.
For many years Mr. Pinnell was an extensive farmer, cattle feeder and stock raiser, residing south of Kansas in
the Inclose community. In 1928 he retired from active work and he and Mrs. Pinnell moved to Charleston to make
their home. In that city he was engaged in the coal business for a few years.
He leaves his wife, and two sons, Ray of this vicinity, and Huber, of Springfield, Mo. A daughter, Gertie, is deceased.
Also surviving are 3 grandchildren, Verlin Pinnell of Ashmore, Max Pinnell and Miss Laveta Pinnell, of Kansas;
one great grandchild, Mary Margaret Pinnell, and many other relatives and friends.
Mr. Pinnell was a regular attendant at church services as long as his health permitted. [contributed by Src. #154]
Widow of Frank Wickham, Sapulpa, Okla., formerly of Charleston, died Wednesday afternoon
at Sapulpa. She had been ill for some time. A brother, H.L. Miller, Charleston and a niece, Mrs. Arthur Woodyard
of Ashmore have gone to Oklahoma for services. Mrs. Wickham is survived by several children in Oklahoma, including
Mrs. William O. Brown, the former Ersa Wickham, whose husband died Dec. 28 at Ada.
Other surviving relatives in the area besides the brother and niece Mrs. Woodyard are another niece, Mrs. Glenn
Wall and a nephew Glenn Miller, both of Charleston. [contributed by Src.
#154]
Mrs. Clarinda Axton
Aug 5, 1912
The funeral services for Mrs. Clarinda Axton, a pioneer resident of Hutton township, who died at the family home
Friday night, were held at 11 o'clock Sunday morning with the Rev. Murray Stone of Charleston, officiating. The
burial was made in the Anderson cemetery in Hutton township.
Mrs. Axton, who was 74 years old, was one of the best known women of Hutton township. She was liked and respected
by all who knew her. She was a Christian woman and was an ideal wife and mother. She is survived by two children,
Thomas Axton of Hutton, and Mrs. William Flemmings of Charleston. Mr. Axton died some years ago. [contributed
by Src. #154]
James Anderson
25 Dec 1825 - 25 Aug 1909
Veteran of Mexican War
Journal-Gazette, Aug 26, 1909
Trilla, Ill - James Anderson, one of the oldest residents of this section, passed away at
his home here on Saturday evening about 8 o'clock, following an illness of some time caused by old age and its
attending weaknesses.
The funeral services were held this afternoon at 1:30 o'clock from the Cumberland Presbyterian church, conducted
by Rev. Mr. Bell of Etna. The burial was made in the Upper Muddy Cemetery.
James Anderson was born in Maryland in the year 1825. In early life he moved to Ohio, where he met and married
Miss Lucinda Knight. In 1853 he came to Illinois and settled in Cumberland county. For many years he lived near
the Cottonwood church. Later he moved tot he James Cunningham farm, south of Mattoon, and 4 years later to the
Van Meter farm near Trilla. In 18?1, he moved to Trilla, where he since had made his home.
[He] was a veteran of the Mexican war, serving with distinction throughout that brief conflict. In 1892 he united
with the Cumberland Presbyterian church, and since that time he had been a conscientious Christian.
The following children survive: Mrs. Mary Dornblaser, Trilla; Mrs. Sarah Ferguson, Brude, Ok.; Charles Anderson,
living south of Lerna, and Mrs. Ralph Jeffries, wife of the former county treasurer of Coles county. Charles Anderson,
the stationary engineer at the Illinois Central shops at Mattoon, is a brother. Mrs. Anderson died 3 years ago.
[contributed by Src. #154]
[Return to the Cumberland County website]
Funeral services under military auspices of the American Legion will be conducted for Lee
Fuqua, 54, of North of Milledgeville who died Tuesday at 5:30 a.m. at the Katherine Shaw Bethea hospital in Dixon.
He had been ill for more than a year. His body was taken to the Shirk funeral home in Milledgeville and the funeral
will be from that chapel Thursday at 2 p.m. Rev. Charles Nettleton will officiate. The committal will be in the
Chadwick cemetery.
Mr. Fuqua was born in Coles county the son of John and Harriet Fuqua. He was reared and educated in Coles county.
On July 8, 1937 he married Beulah Hoak at Clinton Ia. For 20 years or more Mr. Fuqua was a barber in Dixon, but
the last few years he had been operating a small farm north of Milledgeville. He is survived by his wife, a brother
Earl of Mattoon; a sister, Mrs. Alec Hunt of Rockford. Mr. Fuqua was veteran of World War I and a member of the
American Legion. Dixon Evening Telegraph 26 July 1945 - Submitted by Chris
Walters
Morton Marks was in town Tuesday on his way to his home in Mattoon, Ill. from Heltonville,
where he had been to attend the funeral of his brother Theo. Marks who died Saturday of typhoid and was buried
Sunday. Bedford Mail, November 8, 1899, Bedford, Indiana - NOTE: Theodore D. Mark; Jan 20, 1866 - Oct 28, 1899;
Burial Mundell Christian Pleasant Run Township (source was Lawrence County, IN mailing list)
William Floyd Oliver
Daily Journal-Gazette and Commercial-Star
Mattoon, IL, Friday Evening 26 Nov 1937
WILLIAM OLIVER DIES; ILL HALF HOUR
William Oliver, a resident of this city for the past eight years, died at his home, 1708 Edgar Avenue, at 10 o'clock
Thursday night [25 Nov 1937]. He had been ill about half an hour, death being ascribed to acute indigestion. He
was 45 years old.
Mr. Oliver married Miss Fern Grubb of Altamont eight years ago, and came to Mattoon following their marriage. He
had been employed as a painter at the Bartelsmeyer Motor Company garage during the years he lived in Mattoon. Surviving
besides the wife are two children. Virginia Lee and Billy, at home, and Miss Maribelle Oliver, a daughter by a
previous marriage. Submitted by #170, (Contributor's note: He was the son of James Richard
& Furby Ann (Mills) Oliver of Fayette Co, IL. His 2nd wife was Olive Fern (Grubb) Oliver. There is no death
certificate at courthouse at Charleston, Coles Co, IL.)
Olive Fern (Grubb) Oliver
22 June 1946
MRS. OLIVER DIES; FUNERAL TUESDAY
Mrs. Olive Fern Oliver, 43 yrs, 238 South Fourteenth Street, died at 11:15 o'clock Saturday [d. 22 June 1946] in
Memorial Hospital as the result of complications following a major operation on June 18. Funeral services will
be held at 1:30 o'clock Tuesday afternoon at the First Christian church, with Rev. Dale E. Oliver officiating.
Burial will be in Dodge Grove cemetery <Contributor's correction: not
Pleasant Grove Cemetery but one mile west of Moccasin, Effingham Co, IL where M.E. Church was located on the cross
roads.>
Mrs. Oliver, a daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Lee Grubb, was born in Orchardville on Nov 7, 1903. When young, she moved
near Moccasin with her parents. She attended a school at Prairie Cottage and Altamont high school. In 1929, she
was married to William Oliver of Vandalia. He died 10 years ago.
She is survived by three children, Dewey, a member of the armed forces, and Virginia and Billy, at home; her father
of Moccasin; two sister, Mrs. Charles Winters of Cisne <added: Wayne
Co, IL> and Mrs. Wayne Davis of Bondville, and two brothers, Earl Grubb of Shumway
and Eldo Grubb of Altamont. Mrs. Oliver was a member of the First Christian church in Mattoon. Submitted by #170
(Contributor's Addition: Fern's grandparents
were Daniel & Salome (Owens) Grubb and George & Mary (Lemon) Spore. Her father, Lee Grubb lived on the
place that Daniel Grubb owned on Sec. 20 Moccasin, Effington Co, IL.)
CHARLESTON - Mrs. Opal Gay Wilson, 81 of 1921 Meadowlake Drive died at 5:50 a.m. Monday (6 Apr 1976) in the Charleston
Community Memorial Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday in the Harper-Swickard Chapel
with burial in Dodge Grove Cemetery, Mattoon. Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the
funeral home.
Mrs. Wilson was born Jan. 25, 1895 in Hutton Township, the daughter of William and Mary Ellen Biggs Smith. She
married Ross Wilson on Feb. 4, 1914, in Charleston. He preceded her in death on July 18, 1940.
Survivors include two nieces, Mrs. Frank (Maxine) Peebles and Mrs. Robert (Betty Jo) Goucher, both of Terre Haute,
Ind; and three granchildren. One son, A.L. "Bus" Wilson, also preceded her in death. Submitted by #154
Karen Myerscough
contributed by src #171
CHARLESTON -- Karen Sue Myerscough, age 50 of Charleston, passed away on Friday, March 12 (2004) at her home. Adams
Funeral Chapel will host Services celebrating her life at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday (March 16) with Dr. John Connett
officiating. Visitation will be held this evening (Monday) from 5:00 - 8:00. Interment will be in Mound Cemetery,
Charleston.
Karen was born June 16, 1953 in Charleston the daughter of Loren and Edna (Drake) Lee. She married David Myerscough
on June 17, 1972 in Charleston. She is survived by Dave, her loving and devoted husband of thirty-one years; two
sons, David Myerscough and his fiancé Sanya Sharma and Paul Myerscough and his wife Michele, all of Charleston;
one sister, Margaret A. Brown and her husband Johnny of Hindsboro, Illinois; one brother, Lester Dale Lee and his
wife Sheila of Charleston; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded by her parents and an infant son, Steven
Myerscough. Karen was a 1971 graduate of Charleston High School. She was a former employee of Home Depot in Mattoon
and Hardware Supply in Charleston - but for fifteen years it was the warm and smiling face of Karen who greeted
you and took your order at Jerry's Pizza. Her interests included yearly antiquing trips with Carol and Deb, traveling,
crocheting and cooking. Being out-of-doors suited Karen best - she was an avid mushroom hunter but a passionate
fisherman. She enjoyed the friendship of many and those fortunate enough to know this wonderful wife, mother, daughter,
sister and aunt, knew Karen was happiest when she was caring for and sharing time with her family. Adams Funeral
Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, IL 61920. Published in the Journal
Gazette & Times-Courier on 3/15/2004.
Edna Mae Lee
contributed by src #171
CHARLESTON -- Edna Mae Lee, age 77 of Charleston, passed away on Sunday, February 8 (2004) at Hilltop Convalescent
Center. Services celebrating her life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday (February 10). Visitation will be held
one hour prior to the Services. Visitation and Services will be held at Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive
in Charleston. Interment will be in Rest Haven Memorial Gardens in Mattoon. Edna was born May 7, 1926 in Charleston,
Illinois the daughter of John and Mamie (McGahan) Drake. She married Loren P. Lee on June 28, 1947 at the Charleston
home of her parents. She is survived by one son, Lester Dale Lee and his wife Sheila of Charleston; two daughters,
Karen Myerscough and her husband Dave of Charleston and Margaret A. Brown and her husband Johnny of Hindsboro,
Illinois; four grandchildren, Johnny Brown and his wife Jolynn of Toledo, Illinois, Jeremy Brown and his fiancé
Kris Abercrombie of Hindsboro, David Myerscough and his fiancé Sanya Sharma and Paul Myerscough and his
wife Michele, all of Charleston; one step grandchild, Greg Turnbow and his special friend Carrie Geist of Eau Claire,
Wisconsin; two great grandchildren, Riley Scott and Tristan Brown, both of Toledo; one sister, Mary Cooper and
her husband Max of Ashmore, Illinois; and two brothers, Gerald Drake and his wife Ina Rae of Mt. Vernon, Illinois
and Charles Roy Drake and his wife Sharon of Charleston. She was preceded by her parents; her husband, Loren who
passed away February 10, 2000; a grandson, Steven Myerscough; two brothers, Dale Drake and Bill Drake; and one
sister, Martha Van Lanot. Edna's first employment was with Green's Ice Cream Parlor in downtown Charleston. She
later was employed by Brown Shoe Company, The Corner Donut Shop and served as a cook for Mark Twain Elementary
School. She was a former member of the Coles County Home Extension and reading, crocheting, sewing and gardening
were among her hobbies. To Edna, there was nothing more important than her family and she always looked forward
to times shared with them, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Published
in the Journal Gazette & Times-Courier on 2/9/2004.
Edna Mae Lee
CHARLESTON -- The funeral for Edna Mae Lee was Tuesday at Adams Funeral Chapel with Brother Gene Sims officiating.
Burial was in Rest Haven Memorial Gardens in Mattoon. A recording of "Amazing Grace" was played. The
pallbearers were Mrs. Lee's grandsons, Jeremy and Johnny Brown and David and Paul Myerscough. Mrs. Lee, 77, of
Charleston, died Feb. 8, 2004, at Hilltop Convalescent Center. Published in
the Journal Gazette & Times-Courier on 2/11/2004.
