Contributed by Barbara Craig - The Southwest Daily Times, Liberal, Kansas January 13, 1930
MARY (McCONNELL) SELLERS
wife of D. A. Sellers, died at their home in Urbana, Ill., on the 10th inst. after a lingering illness. The remains were brought here last Friday and the funeral took place Sunday afternoon. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. B. McConnell and was born in this city Dec. 1, 1862. Six years ago the family removed to Urbana. Mrs. Sellers was highly esteemed by our citizens and her death has cast a gloom over a large circle of relatives and friends.
Contributed by Margaret Rutledge The Quincy Whig, Friday February 19, 1915 page 7
MARY GENEVIEVE (BUTLER) SEYL
89, of Pittsfield, died Monday, Sept. 1, 2008, in the ER of Illini Community Hospital, Pittsfield.
She was born March 18, 1919, to Emmer and Mary C. Splain Daniels in Florence. She married Leo Roy Butler Sept. 17, 1938 in Bowling Green, Mo.; he preceded her in death in 1964. She later married Raymond Seyl Dec. 14, 1955 and he preceded her in death in 1973. Mrs. Seyl worked for both the Lincoln Inn and the Cardinal Inn restaurants in Pittsfield. She was a member of the First Baptist Church. She enjoyed gardening, raising house plants, collecting pictures of old barns, and collecting clocks. She especially loved traveling and going out for dinner.
Survivors include five sons, Tracy (Vicki) Butler of Pittsfield, Konrad (Janet) Butler of Pittsfield, Roger (Carol) Butler of Rockport, Allen Butler of Pittsfield and Gary Butler of Pittsfield; two daughters, Marcia D. Baughman of Pittsfield and Raymona Swearingian of Lincoln, Neb.; one brother, Robert (Rose) Daniels of Pittsfield; a sister, Mildred Meskimen of Mendota; 31 grandchildren and numerous great and great-great-grandchildren.
Preceded by her husbands, Leo Roy Butler and Raymond Seyl; a son, Murray Lew Butler; a daughter, Bonnie Frey; and a sister, Juanita Ruble Thomas and a daughter Michelle.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield, with the Rev. Leonard Dice, officiating. Burial was at the Gray Cemetery, New Salem. Visitation was held one hour prior to services, 10 a.m. - 11a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield. Memorials are suggested to the Cancer Society or the Diabetes Association in care of the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield
Contributed by Billie Browning
ALBERTA E. (PHILLIPS) SHAW
, 82, of Griggsville died Sunday, Aug. 2, 2009, at the Illini Community Hospital Emergency Room.
Born March 18, 1927 in Griggsville, she was the daughter of Charles Albert and Hazel Dunniway Phillips. She married Elmer "Enos" Shaw Jr., Dec. 29, 1950 and he preceded her in death April 9, 2004.
Bert was a member of the Lighthouse Baptist Church in Griggsville, IL and was a member of the Griggsville Area Genealogy and Historical Society, and served as a treasurer for the Griggsville Library. She was a member of the Griggsville-Perry Athletic Boosters and an avid fan and supporter of the Griggsville Tornado's and Griggsville Eagle's and was a member of the Griggsville Alumni Association. Her many interests included the St. Louis Cardinal Baseball team, toll painting, knitting, sewing, crocheting and raising Beagles with her husband Enos for dog shows. She greatly loved to visit with family, grandchildren, her great great grandchild and friends. In previous year's she worked for Barber Insurance Agency and for the Pike County Sheriff's Department for Sheriff Charlie Cheek and Sheriff Donnie Snyder.
Surviving are two sons, J.D. (Monica) Wilcox of Griggsville, and Steve (partner Belinda Allensworth) Shaw of New Canton; two daughters, Sandy (Kerry) Groom of Pittsfield and Shellie (Todd) Hobson of Griggsville 12 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; one great great grandchild; one sister, Hazel Russell of Pittsfield; and several nephews and nieces. Three sisters, Katheryn Butler, Wilmetta "Billie" Lewis and Lois Dunham along with one brother, Harvey Dean Phillips, preceded her in death.
Services will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 6, at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, with Rev. Dennis Will officiating. Burial will be at the Griggsville Cemetery, Griggsville. Family and friends may call Wednesday evening from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home
Contributed by Billie Browning
BELLE (SNYDER) SHAW
- Graveside rites, with Rev. Joe Maynard and Rev. Kent Sanderson officiating, were held at Summer Hill cemetery Monday at 1 pm for Mrs. Belle Shaw, a former Pike County resident, who died Friday, July 30, 1970 at Bethesda Dilworth Home, St. Louis, Mo.
She was 97 years old and was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ad Snyder. She was married to Silas Luther Shaw of Summer Hill, who preceded her in death. Mrs. Shaw is survived by a son and a daughter, Roscoe L. Shaw of St. Louis and Mrs. Virginia S. Dinges of Biloxi, Miss. She leaves several distant relatives in Pike county.
GERALD D. SHAW
was born in Nebo May 3, 1923, a son of James Ralph and Mary Lucille Ramsey Shaw.
He attended grade school in Nebo, Louisiana, Mo., and Pleasant Hill, and high school in Pleasant Hill, graduating in 1941. While in high school, he participated in football, basketball and track, and acted in the junior and senior class plays. He attended Western Illinois State Teachers College for one year, then enlisted in the Army.
He died Thursday (Nov. 11, 2004) in the Barry Community Care Center where he resided the last 8 1/2 years of his life.
While in the Army, he was a paratrooper and medic in the 504 Combat Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division, referred to by the Germans as "Those Devils in Baggy Pants." He participated in the invasions of France, Holland and Belgium, including the Battle of the Bulge. He received many commendations while in the service, including three Bronze Stars and the Good Conduct Medal. While in the Army, he was also a member of the amateur boxing team. As a lightweight (145 pounds) he fought 11 matches, winning 10 while losing only one.
After his discharge from the Army in 1946, he entered Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis and graduated in 1949. He opened his own chiropractic practice in Pittsfield in 1949 and practiced at the same location until his retirement in 1994.
He owned and operated Pine Lakes Fishing and Camping Resort, first with his brother-in-law, Dr. C. E. "Ed" Galloway for two years, then for the next 18 years with his beloved wife, June.
"Doc" was a member of the Lions Club and served as president for one year and was also a member of the American Legion.
He played the bass violin and directed and performed in several plays sponsored by the Lions Club. He was a league bowler for several years and a longtime member of Old Orchard Country Club, serving as president for one year. He served as Cub Master for the Cub Scouts. He was an avid water skier and won numerous trophies in competitions. "Doc" loved listening to Big Band music, dancing, and attending Pittsfield sporting events.
Dr. Shaw married June Galloway June 6, 1948, in Pleasant Hill. She survives. He is also survived by his four children, Steven E. Shaw and his wife, Jean, of Jacksonville, David B. Shaw of Pittsfield, Sandra K. Hannant and her husband, Phil, of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Phillip T. Shaw and his wife, Molly, of Holland, Mich. He also is survived by eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his two brothers, Arnold Shaw and James Shaw; and his only sister, Imojean Sweeney.
Services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday in the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Burial will be in Pittsfield West Cemetery with military graveside rites by Pittsfield American Legion Post 152.
Friends may call at the funeral home from 5 to 7 p.m. today. Memorials may be made to the Pittsfield High School Athletic Department. A lunch for family and friends will be served at Crossroads Center after the services.
Contributed by Billie Browning
JAMES RALPH SHAW
, 70, of Pleasant Hill , died in Illini Community hospital in Pittsfield at 6 Monday evening, June 22, 1964. He had been an invalid and confined to his home for the past nine years. Mr. Shaw was born in Calhoun county, south of Nebo , Ill. , June 13, 1893, a son of Calvin and Minnie Melissa Shaw. He attended Farmer's Ridge school and was a member of the Church of Christ . He had engaged in farming and owned and operated an orchard for several years. Later he was a carpenter until physically disabled. He was married to Lucille Ramsey in Pittsfield May 29, 1914. Funeral services will be held in the Church of Christ in Pleasant Hill , Thursday afternoon at 2 with Bro. Hershel Ottwell officiating and burial will be in Crescent Heights cemetery. Surviving are his widow; three sons, Arnold of Clarksville, Mo., James R. Jr. of Warsaw, Ill., and Dr. Gerald Shaw of Pittsfield, Ill., a daughter, Mrs. Imogene Sweeny of Riveria Beach, Florida; six brothers, Nelson, Eugene, Lester, George, and Wayne of Nebo, and Russell Shaw of Boulder, Colorado; two sister, Mrs. Eacle (Anna) Scranton and Mrs. Floyd (Ruby) Noble of Nebo and ten grandchildren.
JESSIE FANNIE SHAW
, 87, died Thursday, May 17 in Long Beach , Calif. , where she was spending the winter with her nephew, Clark Shaw, and nieces, Mrs. Helen Taylor of Long Beach and Mrs. Margaret Adams of Bakersfield . Miss Shaw was born on the old Shaw homestead near Summer Hill in Martinsburg township, the daughter of Henry Thomas Shaw and Burnettie Yokem Shaw. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Roy Shaw and Harry Shaw, and a nephew, Clyde Shaw, and she was the last member of her original family. Miss Shaw spent her entire life in the family home with the exception that she would spend the winter months the past few years with her nieces and nephews in California . She was a member of the Summer Hill Congregational Church. The body was returned to the Plattner Chapel, and Monday was taken to the Summer Hill Congregational Church, where funeral services were conducted by Bro. Jessie Smith. Burial was in Adams cemetery. Her two nieces and nephew were here for the funeral.
LEO B. SHAW
, 67, of Nebo, died at his home on January 1, 2007 surrounded by his family, following a long illness with lung cancer. Leo was born April 23, 1939 in Calhoun County , Illinois , the son of Wayne and Mamie Tipsword Shaw. He married Jeanie Janes on August 21, 1964 in Louisiana , Mo. Leo attended Nebo Grade School and Pittsfield High School . He served his country joining the U.S. Army in 1962, receiving his discharge in June 1964, followed by two years of active reserve duty. Leo had a great love for horses. He was a member of the Pleasant Valley Saddle Club and rode horses in all the shows, winning many ribbons. Leo and Jeanie enjoyed camping and traveling. They made many trips to Nashville , Tenn. and Branson, Mo. enjoying the shows and meeting and greeting the starts. They made several trips out west to Idaho , enjoying the mountains and family there. Leo was a member f the Spring Creek Fire Department for many years and served as Fire Chief for one term. He was a member of Pleasant Hill American Legion Post 1948, the National Rifleman's Association, and a member of the early Nebo Community Club. He was a truck driver for many years for Dyno Transportation and in earlier years was an employee of Kamar Construction, a farmhand and mechanic. Leo was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather, always caring for the well being of his family. The time he could spend with his family and friends was his favorite pastime.
He is survived by his wife, Jeanie of Nebo, a son, Steve (wife, Louann) Shaw of Nebo, a daughter, Tammy (husband, Joe) Gates of Pittsfield. Five grandchildren, Tom Shaw and Ashley Hannel of Pleasant Hill ; Andy Shaw of Nebo; and Richard and April Shaw of Jacksonville , North Carolina ; and one great grandson, Owen Thomas Shaw. Also a brother, Wayne "Bud" Shaw of New Mexico; a sister, Viola Clendenny of Nebo, two brothers-in-law; Lawrence Pruett of Nebo and Bob (wife, Carolyn) Janes of Pittsfield; a sister-in-law, Bonnie Janes of Pittsfield, several nieces and nephews and a host of young friends who came often to their home and came to know and love Leo and Janie as their "Ma-ma" and "Pa-Pa." Leo was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Donna Pruett; a brother-in-law, Otho Clendenny, Jr.; a sister-in-law, Dorothy Jean Shaw; a nephew, Ricky Lee Clendenny; and by his father and mother-in-law, Carl and Frances Janes. Funeral services will be held Friday, Jan. 5, 2007 at 11 a.m. at the Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill conducted by Bro. Jim Jacques. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 6 - 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial, with military honors, will be in the Nebo Cemetery . Musical selections will include "The Rest of Mine," "Remember When," and "Truck Driver's Prayer." Casket bearers will be Ronnie Clendenny, Randy Clendenny, Kerry Pruett, Quentin Ramsey, Terry Eddington, and Tim Kremer. Honorary bearers will be Phil Willard, Scott Janes, Kevin Janes, Wayne Shaw, Jr., Herb Long and Don Willard. Memorials may be made to the Spring Creek Fire Department or to Blessing Foundation for Hospice. The Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill is handling arrangements.
MARY JANE SHADE
- Funeral services for Mrs. Mary Jane Shade, 85, former resident of Barry who died Feb. 7 at Oakwood , Mo. were held Thursday afternoon in the church at Atlas with Rev. Kenneth Conant officiating. Mrs. Shade had been a patient at the Oakwood since breaking her hip last November. Born Aug. 16, 1875 near Baylis, she was married Jan. 30, 1894 to Vesper Shade who preceded her in death on Dec. 4, 1944. A daughter is also deceased. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. T. W. Borrowman of Hannibal and Mrs. Flora James of Holiday, Mo. ; two sons, Everett of Pittsfield and Johnnie of Barry; 20 grandchildren; two great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild.
ISOPHENE (ALLISON) SHAW
, daughter of Phelix and Sarah Allison, was born near Nebo, Pike County, Illinois, December 17, 1880, and departed this life on June 27, 1928, at the age of forty-seven, six months and ten days. She was untied in marriage to Albert P. Shaw, June 18, 1913, who departed this life December 3, 1926. To this union one child, Mary Elizabeth, came to bless their home. Phene accepted the call of her savior at the age of fifteen years, under the preaching of Brother Sanson and united with the Baptist church in Nebo, of which she remained a faithful and worker and was always found ready and willing to do the things asked by her Master. She was a patient sufferer until the end. She was a great lover of her home, was a kind neighbor, a loving wife and mother. She leaves to mourn her death besides the daughter, one sister, Mrs. Ola Stevens, who tenderly cared for her in her illness; also two brothers, James, of Nebo; and Almer, of Filer, Idaho; a number of nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held in the Baptist church last Friday afternoon at 2:30, Rev. Ernest Dawdy, pastor of the church, officiating, after which interment was in the Allison cemetery.
Contributed by Carolyne Conner Puskas
HAROLD E. SOUTH
, 82, of Pittsfield died Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at his residence. Harold was born January 19, 1926 in Centerville, Iowa to Benjamin and Mary Steele South. He was an educator/administrator and served as high school principal and taught history, chemistry in Omaha Neb. He served his country in WWII as an Army medic.
He was a member of the Pittsfield United Methodist Church, Lions Club, V.F.W., AM Vets, Pittsfield American Legion Post #152, various teaching organizations, volunteer firefighter in Page County Iowa, and NRA.
Survived by three sons John South, Pittsfield, David South, Iola, Kan., Samuel J. South, Evansville, Ind., one sister Mrs. Mary Katherine Renquest, Broken Arrow, Okla, 10 grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.
Preceded by a daughter Mary Jan Andrew in 2005 and two brothers Lawrence and James South.
Cremation rites will be accorded as per his wishes. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Clarinda, Iowa and burial will be at the Haynes Cemetery in Centerville, Iowa.
Contributed by Billie Browning
CARROLL O. STANLEY
, 72, of the Pittsfield Manor in Pittsfield, and formerly of Milton died Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2009, at the Manor.
He was born Oct. 9, 1937, in Milton son of the late Chris and Florence Chaplin Stanley.
He married Linda Campbell May 14, 1959, in Hillview, and she preceded him in death Aug. 10, 2000.
Surviving is one son, Richard C. Stanley of Pittsfield and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and two brothers, Gerald Stanley and Junior Stanley.
Graveside services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family c/o Airsman-Hires Funeral Home Box 513 Pittsfield, Il. 62363 Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Pittsfield, Il. is in charge of arrangements
Contributed by Billie Browning from the Pike Press
ORA A. STANLEY
, 93 of Detroit, Illinois, died Friday, March 25, 2005 at the Pittsfield Healthcare Facility in Pittsfield, IL. Born May 17, 1911 at Beardstown, IL., he was a son of Lewis A. and Iva R. Jockiesh Stanley. He had never married and worked at Hoover Bros. John Deere Implement in Milton, IL. He was a member of the Baptist Church. Survivors include several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews and a good friend and good neighbor Mrs. Mary Peecher of Detroit, IL. He was preceded by two brother, Chris L. and Howard M. Stanley. Funeral services will be Tuesday, March 29, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Burial will be at the Smith Cemetery at Milton, IL.
CELIA M. STANTON
, widow of David A. Stanton, died Monday night, (31 August 1903) aged 87 years. She, with her husband, were among the early settlers of this place. Their son, Edward, is the only surviving member of the family. On the second day of June, this year, she fell and broke her hip, and from then until her death, was confined to her bed.
Contributed by Judi Gilker - The Quincy Daily Journal
Thursday, Sept. 03, 1903, page 2
DAVID A. STANTON
, an old pioneer, died Monday night (3 Feb 1896) . His funeral will take place tomorrow, Elder Geo. Snively officiating.
Contributed by Judi Gilker - The Quincy Daily Journal Tuesday, February 04, 1896, page 6
EDGAR FAYETTE STANTON
- E. F. Stanton of Pittsfield Buried This Afternoon, Just One Week After His Mother's Death.
Pittsfield, IL. Sept 10. E.F. (Edgar Fayette) Stanton was stricken with heart trouble Monday morning and died late
Tuesday night (8 Sep 1903). The funeral services were held at his late residence this afternoon, Edward Yates delivering the funeral oration, after which the remains were conveyed to the Episcopal cemetery under escort of Col. Dick Gilmer Post, 515, G. A. R., where they were given a soldier's burial beside the aged mother who preceded him a week ago yesterday. Mrs. Stanton was born in Pittsfield, Mass. in 1839, and came here with his parents, David A. and Celia M. Stanton, in 1846, since which time this has been his home, with the exception of the years given up to the service of his country during the was between the states when he was a member of Company A. 99th IL., Infantry. A. C. Matthews, colonel of the regiment, also made an address at the bier of his comrade, He leaves a family of seven children, three girls and four boys
Contributed by Judi Gilker - The Quincy Daily Journal Thursday, Sept. 10, 1903, page 2
CECIL R. STAUFFER
, 87, of Pittsfield, died Monday, December 26, 2005, at 5:25 A.M. in Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois. He was born May 14, 1918, in Astoria, IL to Clarence R. and Edna E. Mitchell Stauffer. He married V. Lorraine Hinckle on August 25, 1941 in Carrollton, IL. She preceded him in death on April 8, 1997. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He attended the Pittsfield United Methodist Church, was a lifetime member of the Pittsfield American Legion Post #152 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was an amateur Hamm radio operator and enjoyed cooking. He graduated from Alton High School. He retired after 36 years from GTE in 1983 as a Transmission Technician.
Survivors: one son (wife, Johnette) Stauffer of Griggsville, IL and a daughter Mrs. Everett (Judy) Dean of New Salem, IL, one sister Margaret Dobrzanski of Johnston, Iowa. He was also survived by six grandchildren Steve (Paula) Dean of New Salem, James of Kinderhook, Rachel (Greg) Smith of Mattoon, Bill (Heather) of Valley Park, MO., Joseph Stauffer of Hawaii, and Laurie (Ron) Bandler of Mt. Zion, IL., and three step grandchildren. He was also survived by 10 great grandchildren and 8 step grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Collis.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 30, 2005, at 2:00 P.M. at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield, Illinois, with Reverend Linda Peyla officiating. Visitation will be Friday, December 30, 2005, from 12:00 noon until time of services at 2:00 P.M. at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield, IL. Burial will be at the Grey Cemetery in New Salem, Illinois. Memorials may be made to the St. Jude Research Hospital or to the Grey Cemetery in care of the Niebur Funeral Home.
ANNA MARIE (NAPIER) STEAD , daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. F. Napier, was born February 17, 1890, and passed away at her home in this city Saturday, January 31, 1920, being at the time of her death 29 years, 11 months and 14 days of age. On October 12, 1913, she was united in marriage to M. B. _Stead of this city. To this union was born one son, Wesley, a dear little boy three years of age, who is left to comfort the sorrowing husband. She united with the Baptist church when about twelve years of age, and has served the church in many capacities since, having sung in the choir and served as church organist many occasions. Anna, as she was familiarly known to all, grew to womanhood in this community, having been born, married and having died at the same family residence. She received her education in the Griggsville high school, being a member of the class of 1908. She was held in high esteem and was dearly beloved by all who knew her, for she was an unusually sweet and lovely character, a tender mother and daughter. Her death is a great blow to the community, and she will long be mourned not only by her own family, to whom she was very dear, but also by countless friends with whom she was associated. She will be keenly missed in social, religious and musical circles. On many occasions her sweet voice brought comfort to her many friends in their hour of sorrow. Only two weeks previous to her death only sang at the funeral services of a dear friend. Her last illness was of short duration, death being caused by pneumonia following an attack of influenza. Loving hands cared for her tenderly, but in the early morning of her life God called her to a higher field of labor. Besides her grief-stricken husband and little son, she leaves to mourn their loss her bereaved father and mother, one sister. Mrs. Ernest Evans of St. Louis, three brothers: William C. Nelson and John Napier of this city. Funeral services were conducted from the Baptist church at 2:30 p.m., on Monday. Feb. 2, by Rev. L. A. Miller of Batavia, Ill., her former pastor and with whom she was associated during his pastorate here. Beautiful music was furnished by a quartet composed of Mrs. Conroy, Mrs. Schnur and Messrs.D. R. Wade and H. C. Laird, Mrs. Ray Harvey presiding at the organ. Interment was in the city cemetery. The floral offerings were numerous and beautiful.
"We shall meet, but we shall miss her. - We shall see a vacant chair;
We shall linger to caress her As we breath an evening prayer.”
(Submitted by Sandi Donaldson from a newspaper clipping from a Pike county scrapbook)
ANN (MAUD) STEAD
- Departed this life at Griggsville, Ill., on the morning of Feb. 25, 1895, Ann Maud, daughter of Samuel Maud, and wife of Matthias Stead. Mrs. Stead was born in Leeds, Yorkshire, England, Feb. 25, 1821, and married Matthias Stead, March 22, 1845. Mr. and Mrs. Stead came to America in 1849 and settled in St. Louis, Mo. In 1855 they came to Griggsville where they have since made their home. They have had nine children, six of whom survive, and were able, with the husband, to accompany the remains to their last resting place. Mrs. E. H. Gillingham, formerly Elinda Maud, now of Newberry, N. H., reached Griggsville Feb. 20, just in time to assist in performing the last acts of love for her aged aunt. The funeral services took place from her home Feb. 27, Rev. Z. T. Savage officiating, and was largely attended by relatives and friends who will mourn her loss.
Contributed by Sandi Donaldson
CHARLES ELLISON STEAD
was born in Griggsville. Ill., June 15, 1860, and died at his home in Griggsville, Ill., February 14, 1934. aged 72 years, 7 months and 29 days. Deceased was one of nine children born to Mathias and Ann (Maud) Stead, and of this family there now remain three brothers: George F. Stead of Bothell, Wash.; M. M. Stead of Hutchinson, Kan.; and Samuel Stead of Covina, Calif. The subject of this sketch was married in 1883 to Harriet Anna Elledge. To this union were born two children, M. Boone Stead and Miss Katherine Stead, who survive him, with two grandchildren, Wesley and Wendell Stead. He had lived in Griggsville practically all his life, with the exception of a few years spent in Perry and Pittsfield. By trade he was a butcher, and for a number of years was employed in the meat market conducted by his brothers, John W. and George F. Stead. For the past twelve years he has been janitor of the South school building in this city. He has discharged his duties faithfully and he was a great favorite with the children with whom he was associated on the school grounds out of school hours. His illness which was of long duration was endured with patience and with little complaint, and the end came peacefully. Mr. Stead was a member of St. James' church and of the Pike County Mutual Life Association. Funeral services were conducted at the Skinner Funeral Home Friday morning, February 16, the Rev. J. K. Putt officiating: Interment was in Griggsville cemetery.
Submitted by Sandi (Stead) Donaldson from a collection of obituaries from Pike County newspapers
CHARLES BALDWIN STEAD
, 67, passed away at his home in Sonoma, Calif., on March 23, 1962. He was the son of Samuel M. and Ellen B. Stead, who were natives of Pike county and resided in Griggsville until 1924, when they retired and moved to Covina, Calif. Two of his cousins, Mrs. Anne Cadwell and M. Boone Stead, reside in Griggsville. Funeral services were held at the Bates, Evans and Feherensen funeral chapel on Wednesday, March 28, at 11 a.m. with interment at the Golden Gate National Cemetery, San Bruno, Calif. Cause of his death was myocardial infarction. Mr. Stead had been under he care of the Letterman Army General hospital in San Francisco for the past three years.
He is survived by his daughter, Patricia Anne Stead of Seattle, Wash.; a sister, Miriam(Mrs. C. W. Hendrickson) also of Seattle; a sister, Mrs. Gwendolyn Eldred of Atherton, Calif.; a brother, George of Oakland, Calif.; and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Stead, a retired air force colonel, was a pilot in both wars with a rating of "Commnand Pilot" in WWII and had logged more than 10,000 hours of flying time. Between the two wars he was a main line plot for 10 years with United Air Lines. Griggsville people remember that when he was a student at Griggsville high School he designed and built a glider plane shortly after the Wright Brothers' historic flight. Mr. Stead had resided in Sonoma, Calif., for the past seven years and in Seattle from 1925 to 1950. From 1950 to 1959 he was employed as a civil engineer by the Western Air Defense Command Hamilton Air Force Base. A commendation certificate presented to him upon retirement from this civilian employment noted he was "responsible for all actions relative to acquisition of real estate. . .rights-of-way, permits, licenses and agreements. . . .By his
outstanding knowledge, skill and perseverance he was able to perform above actions in an outstanding manner. His untiring efforts brought credit to himself and to the United States Air Force."
Prior to WWI Mr. Stead had attended Beloit College in Wiconsin and the University of Illinois where he distinguished himself as a "letter man" in track athletics. In 1916-17 he held "Big Ten" records in the mile and two-mile events.
Enlisting in the regular Army May 11, 1917, while a student at Illinois, he received officer training at Fort Sheridan, Ill. and pilot training in France and Italy. In 1918 he flew a Farman aircraft at Foggia, Italy, which was the "hottest" aircraft in the business. Also in 1918 he was forced down in the English Channel and rescued by an Australian warship.
Called up to active duty with the Air Force in 1940, Col. Stead was Base Commander at Grand Island AAF, Neb., Herrington AAF, Kan., and Bruning AAF, Neb. before being assigned as an Air Inspector.. In 1945 he was a member of a special Air Inspector's team in the Philippines and Australia, where he received a disabling injury.
Subsequently Col. Stead was on board ship with the 2nd Fighter Command enroute to Shaw Field, P. I. when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. The ship returned to San Francisco, and subsequently Col. Stead was assigned to the AAF Plans and Training Command in Orlando, Fla. and later to the 2nd Air Force where he was a Base Commander and Air Inspector before going to the Philippines.
Just after WWI Mr. Stead did "barn storming" with Albert McClay of Griggsville. At. one time be was in command of a reserve AAF squadron of which Charles A. Lindberg was a member at summer camp near Kansas City in the early 1920's. Mr. Stead had been a member of the Masonic Order, A.F. & A.M., the American Legion, and the Air Force Association.
Submitted by Sandi(Stead) Donaldson from a collection of obituaries from Pike County newspapers
MARY (LASBURY) STEAD
- the oldest child of John and Sarah (Simpkin) Lasbury was born January 29, 1859 near Griggsville, Illinois and passed away Tuesday morning, October 1, 1940, at the Stead home, where she lived with her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. George A. Cadwell.
She received her education in Walnut Grove and Griggsville Schools. On January 9th, 1884 she was united in marriage to John W. Stead who passed away on December 20, 1925. To this union were born four children. John Walter Stead of Chicago, Anne Elizabeth, wife of George A. Cadwell, William who passed away on 8th of August 1908 and Winifred Louise.
Mrs. Stead has been a faithful communicant of the St. James' Episcopal Church ever since its establishment in this community and has always been active in its organization.
Her interests were centered around her home and her church.
Besides her children she leaves to mourn her loss two sisters, Mrs. C.P. Hatch and Mrs. L.W. Parker, two brothers John and Vincent Lasbury, all of Griggsville, four grand children, an number of nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.
Mrs. Stead will be greatly missed in her church, her home and her community. She was a woman of the highest Christian character, patient and unassuming.
The funeral will be held Thursday morning at 10:30 in St. James Church, the Rev. J.K. Putt, D.D., officiating. Burial will be held in the Griggsville, Cemetery.
"Grant her rest eternal, o Lord, and my light perpetual shine upon her."
Contributed by Colin Murphy
MATTHIAS STEAD
- From Mr. Robert Anderson, of GriggsviIle we learn that Mr. Matthias Stead was found dead in his bed yesterday morning (June 2, 1896) at his son John's residence with whom he resided in that city. The deceased was born in England in 1819 came to this country in 1848 and has been a long time resident at Griggsville. His wife died about a year ago, and he leaves surviving four sons two of whom John and George reside in Griggsville, Matthias in Pratt Co., Kan. and Charles in this city. Also one daughter Mrs. Ludlow, of Griggsville. He was a good citizen, and had been for two or three years an invalid with gradually failing health.
Contributed by Sandi Donaldson
WENDALL A. STEAD
- 85, of Griggsville, died Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009, at his residence.
He was born Dec. 29, 1923 in Griggsville, son of the late M. Boone and Hazel Antrobus Stead.
He married Norma Lightle Dec. 3, 1950 in Pleasant Hill, and she preceded him in death April 23, 2004.
Surviving are a daughter, Cheri Doom and husband, Roland, of Athens; a niece, Sandra Donaldson and husband Delaine of Effingham; a nephew, Matthew B. Stead and wife Carol of Teutopolis; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; five great-nephews; two great-nieces; and several great-great nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; a brother, Wesley N. Stead.
Mr. Stead was a graduate of Griggsville High School. He was a fireman on the Wabash Railroad for six years, and proprietor of the Ford Movie Theater in Griggsvile for several years. He was owner and operator of Stead's Electrical Service and director of civil defense for the City of Griggsville. He was a retired 28 year member of the volunteer fire department in Griggsville and was instrumental in getting a new firehouse built many years ago. He was also a member of the Moose Lodge. In addition, he was also a member of the Griggsville Genealogical and Historical Society and in his retirement, oversaw his farms.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Airsman-Hires Chapel in Griggsville. Burial was in Griggsville Cemetery.
Contributed by Billie Browning from Pike Press
GRACE (TITTSWORTH) STEPHAN
, died June 18, 2005 at the Barry Community Care Center. She was born near New Canton on December 26, 1920 to Fred and Bertha Davis Tittsworth. She had previous marriages with James Winner and Norman Certo. She married Charles Stephan in July 1982. Charles preceded Grace in death in March 2000. Grace enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and spending time with family. She was a lovely person with a beautiful smile.
Survivors are two brothers, Jesse Tittsworth of Barry and Alfred (wife Katherine) Tittsworth of New Canton; two sisters, Edna Constable of Pittsfield and Ruth Heissinger of Normal. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. A sister Edith Bowler preceded her in death on June 2, 2005. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 21, 2005 at 1:30 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Chapel, Barry, IL with Bert Sapp officiating. Burial at the Parklawn Cemetery, Barry. Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 21, 2005 from 11:30 a.m. until the time of services at the the Funeral Chapel. .
RICHARD ST. JOHN
, was born in Albany county, New York, December 27, 1822, and departed this life in Barry, Ill., October 2, 1901, aged 79 years, 10 months and 8 days. His father moved from New York state to Looking
Glass Prairie, St. Clare county, Ill., in 1833, and in 1837 removed to
Pittsfield, Ill. Mr. St. John came to Barry, Ill., in 1842 and has resided here
ever since, with the exception that from 1849 to 1851 he crossed the
plains to California and return. He was a blacksmith by trade and
followed the same as an occupation for thirty-five years in and near Barry.
He was married twice, and of the first union five sons and one daughter
were born - William, Edward, Alva, Rollie and George; the daughter is
now Mrs. Frances Devol, of Grand Bay, Alabama, and all the children are
living to mourn his loss. Death removed this partner of his joys, and
he was married a second time to Mary L. Lippincott December 20, 1862,
who still survives. Mr. St. John served as city marshal of Barry for fourteen consecutive
years with honor to himself and profit to the city. He was supposed to
be at the time of his death the oldest Mason in Pike county. He took
great interest in Masonry and its teachings and tried to exemplify its
precepts in his life. He was a kind and loving husband and father and will be sadly missed in
his home and community. The funeral services were conducted from the
M.E. church Sunday, October 6, at 2 pm, by Wm. M. Halley, after which
his Masonic brethren took charge and buried him with Masonic honors in
Barry cemetery.
Barry Adage October 10 1901
LYNN STROHEKER
- 61, died on Wednesday, April 20, 2005 at the All Care Nursing Home in San Marcos, TX. Lynn was born in Pittsfield, IL on June 22, 1942 to Stewart and Vivian M. Windmiller Stroheker. She lived in Jacksonville, IL prior to moving to San Marcos, TX. She was employed in sales for Suchulte Supply Company. She was interested in animals, swimming and playing cards.
Survivors: one son, John S. Hartz, Franklin, IL., two daughters, Lori (John) Whalen, Franklin, IL., Leslie (Richard) San Jose, Kyle, TX., one brother S. D. Stroheker, Pittsfield, IL, two grandsons, Andrew and Kurt Whalen and one granddaughter, Rachel Whalen, Franklin, IL. Preceded in death by one sister, Marjorie “Ann” Lyman.
Visitation with prayer service Saturday, April 30, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Franklin, IL. Graveside services will be held Saturday, April 30, 2005 at 12:00 Noon at West Cemetery, Pittsfield, IL. Memorials are to the American Cancer Society, Central Hospice in TX or Dog Pen.
BONA (DONOHOO) SUTTER
, 97 of Pittsfield, died Friday, August 19, 2005 at the home of her daughter in San Diego, CA. Born July 8, 1908 at Pearl, Il., she was a daughter of Walter Roy and Anna Pettit Donohoo. She married John B. Sutter Oct. 18, 1929 at Monticello, IL and he preceded her on March 17, 1980. She was a graduate of Pearl High School, attended McMurray College in Jacksonville and the University of Illinois. She taught elementary education in Springfield, IL., was postmistress at Pearl Post Office and for the Illinois Dept. of Public Aid in the ADC Department as a caseworker for ten years. Bona was member of the Pittsfield First Christian Church, a charter member of the Old Orchard Country Club and the Pittsfield Art League.
Survivors: a daughter Mrs. Barbara Huisman of San Diego, CA., a granddaughter Kathryn Guincy of Poway, CA. and a grandson Dr. Thomas Huisman of Davidsonville, MD and six great grandchildren. a brother Roy Donohoo at Lakewood. CO. and nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be Friday, August 26, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Pittsfield with Michael Ten Eyck officiating. Burial will be at Greenpond Cemetery at Pearl. Friends may call at the church on Friday, August 26th one hour prior to services
Contributed by Colleen Bettenhausen - 24 Aug 2005, Pike Press, Pittsfield
FRANCES (SCHNEPF) SUTTER
, 74, of rural Barry passed away Sunday morning, January 30, 2005 at the Hannibal Regional Hospital in Hannibal, MO. Mrs. Sutton was born May 10, 1930, daughter of Walter L. and Esther Bocking Schnepf. She attended the Pleasant Valley Grade School in Derry Township and graduated from Barry High School in 1948. She also attended the Gem City College in Quincy. Frances married Ira Sutton in 1950 at Pittsfield IL., and they were together for 54 years. Mrs. Sutton was of the Christian faith and attended the Barry United Methodist Church. Frances worked at home, helping her husband on the farm taking care of the animals. She loved the outdoors and was an avid gardener, canning and preserving the bounty of her garden. She enjoyed sewing, handicrafts and crocheting, collecting salt and pepper shakers and taking care of her family. Frances loved the peaceful and quiet life style of country living. She will be well remembered for being at the Farmers Market in Pittsfield, where she had regular customers for her garden produce and her baked goods, especially her pies. Survivors include her husband Ira, two sons, Walter (wife Carrie) of Barry and their children Adam, Mathew and Kayla, David Sutton of Barry and his daughter Mrs. Nathan (Misty) Blackorby and her daughter Gabi, one daughter Mrs. James (Marilyn) Behrensmeyer of Rockford and their two sons Christopher and Timothy, three sisters Mrs. Dale (Virginia) Woods of Barry, Mrs. Eleanor Whitlock of Baylis and Mrs. Herb (Doris) Rennecker of Kinderhook. Preceded by her parents, a son Gary in 2004 and three brothers, Carl, Kenneth, and Gerald Schnepf, a sister Adaline Harrison and two nephews. Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 3, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at the Barry United Methodist Church, with Pastor Nancy Monahan and Rev. John Furniss officiating. Burial will be at the Park Lawn Cemetery in Barry. Visitation will be Wednesday evening, February 2, 2005 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry.
EILEEN (GRESHAM) SWARTZ
, 81, of rural Pittsfield, IL died Monday May 16, 2005 at Illini Community Hospital. She was born August 6, 1923 near Florence, Illinois. She was the daughter of Orbin and Lottie Wade Gresham. She was raised by her mother and step-father, Charles and Lottie Wade Cook. She married John E. Swartz on April 18, 1949 in Springfield, Illinois. He preceded her in death January 5, 2000. She was a homemaker and farmwife. She loved picking raspberries, gardening, visiting with friends and relatives and canning her own garden vegetables. She especially enjoyed playing bingo with the residents of the Pittsfield Health Care Center. She was a member of the United Methodist Church at Florence.
Survivors include three sons: David (wife Sandra), Jim (wife Brenda), and Rex (wife Janice) all of Pittsfield, six grandchildren-John (wife Cindy), Katie( Jim) Shields, Abby, Beth, Janette and Greg and two great grandchildren, Layne Jo and Gretchen. She was preceded in death by one grandson, Matthew Swartz. Funeral services will be conducted May 19, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. at the Niebur Home in Pittsfield with Rev. John Ruzich officiating. Burial will be at the Blue River Cemetery in Detroit. Friends may call Wednesday, May 18, 2005 from 4:30 until 8 p.m. at the funeral home.
MERL W. SWARTZ
, 91, of Florence, died Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009, at his residence in Florence.
Born June 16, 1917 in Detroit Twp., Pike County, he was a son of George and Minnie Ralaford Swartz. He married Emilie Welter in Petersburg and she survives. Merl was a commercial fisherman on the Illinois River and also raised raspberries and strawberries to sell in the local markets.
He attended the Calvary Baptist Church in Pittsfield. Merl enjoyed gardening and watching baseball on TV.
Survivors are his wife of more than 40 years, Emilie Swartz of Florence; and several nieces, nephews, great and great-great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded by four brothers, John, Vincent, Cecil and Carl Swartz.
Funeral services will be today, Wednesday, Jan. 21, at 11 a.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Rev. Bill Herald officiating. Burial will be at Blue River Cemetery at Detroit. Friends may call at Niebur Funeral Home Wednesday, Jan. 21from 10 a.m. until time of the service at 11 a.m.
Contributed by Billie Browning
KEVIN PHILLIP SYRCLE
- Son of Donald D. and Phyllis A. Lovell Syrcle. He married Shelley Renee Gates February 2, 2002 in Hull, Pike Co. IL
Kevin died as the result of a tragic accident at Cincinnati Landing, near New Canton, Pike Co. IL. They have 1 daughter
Information contributed by "C.J." at Find-A-Grave
MART J. SYRCLE
- 87, of rural Pittsfield, IL died Friday afternoon, June 23, 2006, at the Pittsfield Manor, Pittsfield, IL. He was born on April 7, 1919, near Mt. Sterling, Illinois to Martin Sr., and Vinnie Allen Syrcle. Mart was a lifelong farmer in the Newburg Township of Pike County, Illinois. He was also a technician for the Jacksonville Developmental Center and a Weight Inspector at Pittsfield Weigh Station for the State of Illinois.
Mart was active in the Pike County Republican Party. He served on the Pike County Board of Supervisors; a member of the NRA, an avid quail and duck hunter; he trained and raised pointer and English setter bird dogs and coon dogs (Walkers). He was an arrowhead hunter and collector and loved antique furniture and caning antique chairs.
He is survived by six sons: Craig T. Syrcle of Time, IL; Terry B. Syrcle of Orlando, FL; Rex M. Syrcle of Pittsfield, IL.; Scott Syrcle of Pittsfield, IL; William L. Syrcle of Macomb, IL; and Richard E. Syrcle of Georgetown, KY. He is also survived by three daughters: Mrs. Roger Schlieper of Farmers City, IL; Paula J. Reel of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; and Joy C. Syrcle of Springfield, IL. In addition, Mart is survived by 13 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by three sisters; Vinnie Marie Haskins; Clara Belle Boudreau; and Zelpha Morton; and one brother; Howard Syrcle. He was also preceded in death by two grandchildren; Catherine Ilene Syrcle and Christopher Turner.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, June 26, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home with Rev. Quentin Beard officiating. Burial will be at the West Cemetery in Pittsfield, IL. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 25, 2006, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, IL. Memorials are suggested to the Mounted Angels or to the Donor's Choice.