Obituaries (September 14)

Charles W. Decker

Afton Enterprise, June 5, 1919

This community has lost one of its oldest and most prominent and highly respected citizens by the death of Charles W. Decker, which occurred at his home on the East Side Afton [Chenango Co., NY] on Sabbath morning, May 25, 1919, after a lingering illness.  Mr. Decker was the son of Mr. Selar Decker (one of the founders and charter members of the Presbyterian church of this place forty years ago).  He was born in Eminence, Schoharie county, N.Y. on May 18, 1847, and had therefore just passed his seventy-second birthday.  The family came to Afton in 1866, and lived in the old home a short distance below the village on the east side of the river, now owned by his son, Frank H. Decker of Colesville.  He was married to Miss Rachel A. BeVier, who survives him as do also their three children, George F. Decker, Frank B. Decker, and Lillian May (Mrs. George W .McKee), and six grandchildren, and also by his only brother, Joseph A. Decker, all of Afton.  He was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church ever since his boyhood, and of the Church in Afton for nearly forty years, and a faithful and native Ruling Elder in the Church during nearly all that period, and his benignant presence will be sadly missed by both the pastor and people.  His last days of illness were characterized by the quiet and unfaltering patience and faith in the Savior which had marked his life.  Like a tired child he fell asleep, passing away as sweetly and gently as he had lived, and in the first few moments of the Sabbath morning, with his beloved wife and children all by his bedside, he entered in the rest which remaineth for the people of God.  The funeral services were held in the home which he loved so well, on Thursday afternoon, May 29, conducted by his pastor, Dr. J.J. Francis and attended by large numbers of his neighbors and friends.  Among the many beautiful floral tributes which lay upon his casket, brought by many loving hearts and hands, there were three which seemed peculiarly appropriate, one from "The loved ones of his own family", and "From the Presbyterian Church".  and one bearing the card "From his neighbors."  On the afternoon of an almost perfect summer day, beneath the blue sky and the lovely flowers we laid him with his friends to rest in peaceful Glenwood Cemetery [Afton NY], overlooking his earthly home, and the beautiful scenes of the Susquehanna Valley, in the midst of which all the years of his manhood were spent; feeling that his life has been a blessing and a benediction to many of us.  J.J.F.

Charles W. Graham

Afton Enterprise, December 23, 1909

Chas. W. Graham was born in Crawford Co. Pa. Nov. 24, 1846.  Died in Afton, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] Dec. 16, 1909 and was therefore a little over 63 years of age.  He had lived in Afton for more than 35 years and was a well known and well respected citizen  He had quite a reputation as a successful grower of strawberries and small fruits.  He was married to Miss Francis S. Griswold of Coventry, N.Y. his bereaved companion.  Nov. 13, 1889 and for 30 years their home has been one of the substantial homes of the village.  He leaves his wife and an aged mother, both of whom will have the earnest sympathy of the people in their loss.  His funeral was held on Sunday afternoon in the M.E. church.  Funeral services were conducted by the pastor Rev. I.J. Smith and were largely attended by his many friends.  He was buried in the family plot in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, NY].

Ora K. Landers

Afton Enterprise, January 10, 1889

Miss Ora K. Landers, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edson Landers, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], died Sunday morning, aged 20 years 6 months and 1 day.  For several weeks past Miss Landers had been confined to the house with typhoid fever, and last week she was thought to be improving, but Saturday morning she suffered a relapse, and despite all that human skill could do she passed peacefully away.  The deceased was one of our most highly respected young ladies.  When but a child she united with the Afton Baptist church, and since then has been a worker in the vineyard of her Master.  The death of Miss Landers will be severely felt in the home circle, in the church, in the Sunday school, and also by one of our first young men who was soon to make her his wife. The funeral was held Tuesday and was largely attended, Rev.  H.S. Leach officiating. The floral collection was beautiful, and consisted of a harp of calla lilies and white carnations.  On the base was the work "Ora" in purple immortelles.  A cross of white rose buds, a wreath of light pink and cream colored rose buds, and a large bouquet of calla lilies.  The casket was a "Beltast," of drab brocaded velvet and was one of the finest in Undertaker McDonald's warerooms.  the remains were laid to rest in Glenwood cemetery [Afton. NY], Messrs. H.A. Benedict, Hurbert Dutton, Ed Weeks and O.E. Sackett Jr acting as bearers.  The Enterprise extends its sympathy to the bereaved family and friends.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, October 18, 1894

BISSELL:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] Oct. 12, 1894, Mrs. Frances l. Bissell widow of Henry S. Bissell, daughter of Lathrop Rosebrock of North Norwich.  They occupied the Bissell homestead north of Norwich until 1873, moved to Passaic, N.J., returned to the homestead in 1877.  She with her family moved to Norwich in 1891 (Charles Bissell, Mr. and Mrs. M.H. Sullivan.

DYE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 16, 1894, Susan E. [Dye] wife of Charles l. Dye, aged 40 years.

WHEAT:  On West Hill at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Lucinda Tyler, Mrs. Rosanna Wheat, age 80 years.

SAYLES:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 5, 1894 Ardelia Sayles, aged 79 years.

McPHERSON:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] Sept. 24, 1894, Wm. A. McPherson, only son of J. McPherson, aged 2 years 5 months 5 days.

HOVEY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] Oct. 11, 1894, Ella F. [Hovey] wife of C.C. Hovey, age 38.

blog postings August 20 to September 11, 2018

Listing of blog postings for August 20 to September 11, 2018

Marriages

Posted September 11, 2018

Mr. A.J. Dunlevy - Anna L. Coulter (Burnett NB/Afton, 1889)

Addison Sexsmith - Georgia G. Whitney (North Sanford/Rockdale, 1889)

George Benedict - Marjorie Murphy (West Brookville/Nineveh Junction, 1940)

Jeanne Hyde - Harry Eugene Wulfing Jr. (Chicago, 1942)

Marriage Notices - 1875

     James H. Wescott - Gertrude S. Arnold (Norwich/Lindley)

     William R. Lewis - Sophie J. Dupre (Cornwall/Geneseo, IL)

     Charles T. Wells - Ruth H. Gibbs (Preston/Utica)

     Henry C. Wheeler - Mattie E. Pollock (Sherburne)

     Fred S. Crosby - Carrie Dewey (New Berlin/Plainfield, NJ)

Obituaries

Posted August 20, 2018

Frederick Hubbard Burchard (Oxford, Norwich, 1910)

Alice C. (Squires) Burchard (Oxford, 1910)

Harriet A. (Smith) Sphon (Bainbridge, 1910)

Ethel (Ogden) Tompkins (Bainbridge, Binghamton, 1910)  suicide

Perry Tillotson (Smithville, McDonough, 1910)

Posted August 21, 2018

William Morrell Ketchum (Greene, 1910)

Janette Elizabeth Kinsman (Lower Page Brook, 1910)

Ellen (Wedge) Smith (Afton, 1910)

Sarah E. (Rathbone) Race (Morrisville, Oxford, 1910)

Emily (Wheeler) Bartoo (Greene, 1910)

Albert Page (Greene, 1910)

Posted August 22, 2018

Catherine Duffy (1910)

Nancy (Parker) Sage (West Bainbridge, 1910)

Thomas Tifft (Coventry, 1910)

Theron Sharp (Greene, 1910)

\Melvin A. Macomber (Greene, 1910)

Posted August 23, 2018

Nora L. Ryan (Oxford, 1907)

Eugene B. Ryan (Oxford, 1907)

Ellen (Root) Ryan (Oxford, 1933)

Adelaide (Stratton) Bronson (Mexico City, Oxford, 1907)

Strange Occurrence associated with death of James Barton (Chenango Bridge, 1907)

Posted August 24, 2018

Dr. Louis P. Blair (McDonough, Buffalo, 1908)

Luther Clayton Wakeman (Bainbridge, 1908)

Philo S. Mead (McPherson KN, 1908)

William Allen (Bainbridge, 1908)

Nellie M. Williams (Norwich, Cazenovia, 1908)  drowning

Posted August 25, 2018

John Bliss Willoughby (Oxford, 1908)

Hamilton Yeager (Greene, 1908)

Mariette (Moon) Pearsall (Coventry, 1908)

Posted August 26, 2018
Angeline P. (Burrows) Lounsberry (Coventry, 1908)
Franklyn D. Wood (Greene, Troy PA, 1908)
Henry Loomis (Smithville Center, 1908)
M.D. Howard (Jordan, Afton, 1888)
Stephen P. Waldron (Great Bend, 1888)  Killed when struck by train

Posted August 27, 2018
James Harvey Benedict ()Smithville, 1913)
Lillian (McFarland) Cline (Boston, Oxford, 1913)
Edwin Brown Flagg (Oxford, 1913)
George D. Cowles (Smithville, 1912)

Posted August 29, 2018
Margaret (Richmond) Church (Oxford, 1912)
Syndonia Gleason) Church (Smithville, 1923)
Dr. John W. Thorpe (Oxford, 1911)
Charlotte (Brown) Thorp (Oxford, 1907)
Julian W. Lindsay (North Norwich, 1907)
Flora Felt (North Pharsalia, 1907)

Posted August 31, 2018
John J. Stoddard (Coventryville, 1911)
George Rice (Coventry, Afton, 1911)
Ernest Southworth (Coventry, 1911)
Truman Alvin Southworth (Coventry, 1911)

Posted September 7, 2018
Eunice Beardslee (1929)
Alfred Corbin (East McDonough, 1890)
Sarah E. (Van Wagenen) Corbin (Oxford, 1911)
Alice (Eddy) Smith (Greene, State Island, 1911)
John W. Manning (Coventry, 1911)
Franklin Mudge (Bainbridge, Oxford, 1911)

Posted September 9, 2018
Ursula E. (Hall) Ingraham (Oxford, 1907)
Orrin Follett (Norwich, 1907)  Killed by bull
Sarah C. Simmons (Coventry, 1907)
George W. Root (1907)

Posted September 10, 2018
James Wheeler Smith (Bainbridge, 1911)
William Dunn (Greene, 1911)
Charles Loomis (Bainbridge, 1911)
Death notice - 1911
     Charles Cumber (Coventry, 74y)

Miscellaneous

Posted August 26, 2018

Guilford Central High School, Freshman Class, 1954

Posted September 8, 2018
Bainbridge High Class of 1960 - Part 3

Marriages (September 11)

Dunlevy - Coulter

Afton Enterprise, January 3, 1889

The following item we take from the Burnett, (Neb.) Blade:  Married, at Emerick, Neb., Thursday, Dec. 13, 1888, Mr. A.J. Dunlevy, of Burnett, and Miss Anna L. Coulter, of Afton, N.Y.  Rev. Kimball, of Madison, officiating.  The contracting parties are both well and favorably known in Burnett, and in behalf of their many warm friends here this paper extends congratulations.  Mr. Dunlevy is the popular cashier of the Tilden State Bank at this place, and few young men stand higher in the favor of this community. The bride for the past year has been one of Madison county's popular teachers, in which capacity she gave universal satisfaction.  The happy couple have gone to house keeping in the brick block formerly occupied by Mr. Dunlevy and his mother.  May the light of happiness always shine in this little home in the sincere wish of the Blade.

Sexsmith - Whitney

Afton Enterprise, January 10, 1889

The marriage of Mr. Addison Sexsmith, of North Sanford [Broome Co., NY], to Miss Georgia G. Whitney, of Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], on Christmas day last, which occurred at the residence of the Bride's uncle, Samuel C. Hickox, was a brilliant episode to the society of that vicinity.  Rev. H.B. Benedict performed the ceremony and Mrs. H.B. Benedict presided at the organ.  After the ceremony was concluded, and the usual congratulations offered, the guests were treated to a bountiful repast and immediately after, the bride and groom were carried to Sidney and at once departed for a short sojourn in the capitol city.  The best wishes of a host of friends and relatives will follow the happy pair in their journey through life.  Gilbertsville journal

Benedict - Murphy

Afton Enterprise & Harpursville Budget, January 4, 1940

A very pretty wedding took place at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Murphy at Nineveh Junction, when George Benedict of West Brookville and Miss Marjorie Murphy were united in matrimony, in the presence of the family and relatives Saturday evening at 8 o'clock.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. H.L. McGonigal, pastor of the Harpursville Baptist church.  The bride is a graduate of the Afton High School and the Middletown Business institute. The groom is employed at West Brookville where the young couple will make their future home.

Wulfing - Hyde

Afton Enterprise & Harpursville Budget, January 1, 1942

Mr. and Mrs. Neal D. Hyde of Chicago announce the marriage of their daughter Jeanne [Hyde] to Harry Eugene Wulfing, Jr. son of Mr. ad Mrs. H.E. Wulfing of Chicago.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. Charles A. Carman, D.D. at the Morgan Park Baptist Church on Saturday evening, December 27th, 1941.  The bride was attended by her sister, Anne, as maid of honor, and by five bridesmaids.  Richard Banger was the groom's best man and W. Benton Hyde was head usher. The bride and her attendants wore white velveteen dresses.  The bride carried a white Bible with gardenias and sweet peas.  Her cap was of lace made by her great-grandmother, Delia Hyde.  The maid of honor and bridesmaids wore sweet heart brim hats and carried white muffs trimmed with red camellias.  The church was lighted by candelabras and the ceremony as performed in a setting of evergreen and poinsettias.  A reception was held in the church parlors.  Mr. and Mrs. Wulfing will live in Murphysboro, Illinois, where he is employed by Sherwin-Williams in national defense work.

Marriage Notices

Chenango Union, August 12, 1875

WESCOTT - ARNOLD:  In Norwich, Aug. 2 by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Mr. James H. Wescott, M.D. of Norwich to Miss Gertrude S. Arnold of Lindley, N.Y.

LEWIS - DUPRE:  In Cornwall, Ill. (Baptist Parsonage) Aug. 4 by Rev. A.M. Totman, Mr. William R. Lewis of Cornwall to Miss Sophie J. Dupre of Geneseo, Ill. formerly of Norwich.

WELLS - GIBBS:  In new Hartford, Aug. 5 by Rev. C.W. Warren, Mr. Charles T. Wells of Preston to Miss Ruth H. Gibbs of Utica.

WHEELER - POLLOCK:  In Sherburne, Aug. 4, by Rev. S.W. Weiss, Mr. Henry C. Wheeler to Miss Mattie E. Pollock, all of Sherburne.

CROSBY - DEWEY:  In Lisle by Rev. W. Radford, Mr. Fred S. Crosby of New Berlin to Miss Carrie Dewey of Plainfield, N.J.

Obituary (September 10)

James Wheeler Smith

March 1, 1820-June 5, 1911

James Wheeler Smith, an aged and well known resident of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Richard G. Lyon in West Bainbridge last week Monday, June 5.  Mr. Smith was well and favorably known throughout all this region.  He was a man of ability and integrity.  At the Wheeler reunions he has contributed considerable of their success and pleasure by his presence and efforts to make them interesting.  His birthday which occurred in March, has usually called out some expression of regard from his children in each year.  Mr. Smith was born in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] March 1, 1820.  Mr. Smith was the son of Nicholas and Susan Wheeler Smith.  In August 31, 1842, he was married to Eunice Lucretia Lyon, whose death occurred some years ago.  He was a religious man and on the occasion of his 90th birthday, stated that he had read the Bible, through thirty-six times by courses.  He is survived by three sons, James D. Smith of Oxford, H. Henry Smith of Wilkins Settlement, Charles N. Smith of Guilford; two daughters; Miss Celia Smith and Mrs. Richard G. Lyon of West Bainbridge.

William Dunn

1873 - December 1911

The body of William M. Dunn was found by track-walker Worrell early Tuesday morning near the farm of Orrin Carter, a half mile above the station in Greene [Chenango Co., NY].  He notified the section men and the body was removed to the freight house on a hand car.  Coroner Chapin made an investigation.  The body was in a badly mangled condition,...It is possible that it will never be known just how Mr. Dunn met his death.  He had been in the employ of Mrs. Mary Wright on a farm near Brisbin since last August.  Monday evening he came to Greene and was last seem alive near the lunch rooms at 11 o'clock.  Sometime after that hour it is thought he went to the station and boarded a freight train which left here ahead of the early passenger train and fell off and was run over.  Others think that he had started to walk up the track to his home and was struck by the train.  Deceased was son of Mr. and Mrs. Jehial Dunn of this village, and was 38 years of age.  He was well known in and about the town.  He was a married man, but had separated form his wife a number of years ago.  Besides the parents he is survived by one brother, George Dunn, who resides at Cleveland, Ohio. The funeral was held in the Baptist church at Greene yesterday afternoon.  Interment at Lower Genegantslet.

Charles Loomis

1858-1911

Charles Loomis, one of the most widely known farmers residing in this town near Union Valley, died at his home Sunday night, aged 52 years.  Mr. Loomis had been failing for two years, and his death has been expected.  Mr. Loomis was the son of Henry Loomis and was born in that vicinity.  He was married to Cora Lyon, daughter of Spardon lyon, who still survives him.  Mr. Loomis was well and favorably known throughout the vicinity.  He was a member of the Union Valley Methodist church.  He is survived by his wife and sons, Ward, Ralph, Leon and Benny, two brothers, N.R. Loomis and Edward Loomis and one sister, Mrs. Thomas Searles of Bainbridge.  The funeral was held yesterday afternoon at the Union Valley Methodist church, Rev. Frank James, of Bainbridge officiating. Burial was made at West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]\.

Death Notice

CUMBER:  Charles H. Cumber, a life-long resident of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], died December 20 [1911], of dropsy, aged 74 years.  He was well known in Oxford.

Obituaries (September 9)

Ursula E. (Hall) Ingraham
Jan. 15, 1827 - Dec. 5, 1907

Thursday, Dec. 5, 1907, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A.D. Rogers, occurred the death of Ursula E., widow of Lyman H. Ingraham.  The funeral was held at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon from the house, the Rev. Mr. Gates officiating.  Interment was made in Riverview cemetery [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].  Among those from out of town were, James Ingraham, Unadilla, Ira Hall, Wellsbridge, Mrs. Julia Hacket, Coventryville, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Willis, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ingraham, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Youmans, Mrs. Frank Butts, Mrs. John Wright, Norwich; Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Ingraham and children, Guilford.  Mrs.  Ingraham was born in this town Jan. 15, 1827, and married Mr. Ingraham Jan. 18, 1849.  To them four children were born, three of whom survive:  Mrs. A.D. Rogers, Daniel E. Ingraham, of Oxford, and Wesley Ingraham of Guilford.  There are five grandchildren and four great grandchildren, also a sister, Mrs. Julia Hacket, and three brothers, Ira Hall, Frank Hall, East Pharsalia, Lucius Hall, Harbor Beach, Mich. Mrs. Ingraham was a loving mother, a kind neighbor and a true Christian, who bore her long years of suffering with never a complaint.  "All was well" with her.  She was a woman who cared not for the glitterings of life, but preferred the vocations of her home and children.  Her every act of life being to demand the love of her loved ones and the respect of her acquaintances.  Endeavoring with energy of a true woman and mother to be a living example to those to whom God had given into her keeping.  May the sorrows of the daughter, who so faithfully and tenderly cared for the mother for years, be lessened by knowing full well the reward the faithful are entitled to, the dearly loved mother, as she enters the eternal resting place.

Orrin Follett

1842 - July 26, 1907

Orrin Follett, a farm hand 65 years old, was killed by a bull in a field on the Barnes farm in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] Friday afternoon.  Mr. Follett, who is employed on the farm which is on the King's Settlement road not far from the village, started from the house shortly before 4 o'clock to drive the cows in for the milking.  He was armed with a pitchfork.  At 6 o'clock he had not returned and a search was instituted.  His body was found in a field and from a glance it was evident that he had been gored and tramped to death by a bull.  he was lying face downward in the grass.  All his ribs had been broken.  Mr. Follett had in this field unexpectedly encountered a bull owned by J.O.H. Reed, president of Norwich and who owns a farm adjoining the Barnes place. The bull had broken out and was roaming the field.  Just what happened is a matter of conjecture.  Mr. Follett may have been attacked unexpectedly and suddenly or he might have aroused the best while trying to drive it back to the farm on which it belonged.  The ground for a long distance about the body showed that there had been a prolonged struggle.  At one side lay Mr Follett's watch.  It had stopped at 4:28.  Near by was the fork which the man had carried.  There were no marks on the bull.  Coroner Manley made an investigation and concluded that a formal inquest was unnecessary.

Sarah C. Simmons

July 1907

Mrs. Sarah C. Simmons, widow of the late Chauncey Simmons, died at the home of her son, Julian Simmons, with whom she made it her home, in Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on Thursday morning of last week, aged 64 years.  Her death was very sudden and unexpected as she had been in comparatively good health for the past few months, and was caused by cerebral hemorrhages.  She had just returned from a visit with Afton friends the night previous and on arising in the morning complained of not feeling well, when she suddenly sank back into a chair and expired.  Mrs. Simmons was a lady of fine character and had many friends in this village who will deeply regret her demise.  Until last February she resided on South Chenango street, in this village, leaving at that time to make her home with her son in Coventry. She was an active and honored member of Chenango Chapter Order of Eastern Star and the Woman's Relief Corps, both of which societies attended her funeral in a body. She was a communicant of Zion church, her funeral being held from that edifice on Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. Percy T. Olton, officiating.  Burial in Sylvan Lawn cemetery [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].  Of her immediate family she leaves two sons, G.H. Simmons of New York city and Julian Simmons of Coventry, to mourn her loss.

George W. Root

May 1907

George W. Root died at the residence of his son, Leland Root, Friday, May  10, 1907, aged 80 years.  Mr. Root had resided in this town all his life, most of which was spent in farming.  He was a respected citizen and a man who retained the friendship of all his acquaintances.  Beside the son above mentioned Mr. Root is survived by four daughters, Mrs. Chauncey Smith, Mrs. Merton Mudge, Mrs. DeWitt Thompson and Mrs. George C. Lewis, all of this town.  Funeral services were held at the Baptist church, of which deceased was a member, Sunday afternoon at two o'clock, Rev. C.B. Parsons officiating.  There was a large attendance.

BCHS Class of 1960 - Part 3

Bainbridge Central High School - Class of 1960

"Echo" 1960

George Edward Haynes

Shy, Reliable, Good Friend

David William Hellerud

Crew Cut, likes to talk, Athletic

Donna Lee Houck

Likes pizza, cute, quiet

Eleanor Kay Hoyt

Lovely black hair and dark eyes, Friendly

Virginia Ann Hubbard

Sporty, Cheerleader, Fun

Toni Marise Hulbert

Dick Clark fan, Peppy

Obituaries (September 6)

Eunice Beardslee

Norwich Sun, February 22, 1929

Another old citizen of this village passed away the last of last week.  Miss Eunice Beardslee died at the home of her sister, Mrs. Maria Harrington.  Miss Beardslee was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cyril Beardslee and was born 84 years ago.  Her father's home was on the corner at Hoboken where Mr. Dixon now lives.  In her earlier life she was a music teacher.  Later she built a home on lower South street where she lived until within a few days of her death. She was an interesting woman, keeping keen track of the things going on about her.  In spite of deafness which had been for many years, she was always ready for a visit and always carried with her a tablet and pencil, so anyone might talk with her easily on paper and her quick humor, and understanding made a conversation with her a thing to be remembered. She was sick only a short time, death coming more as the result of a general breaking down than from any acute disease.  The funeral was Tuesday at the home of Mrs. Harrington.  Dr. Gifford of St. Andrew's church, of which Miss Beardslee was a member, officiated.

Alfred Corbin

Chenango Union, November 13, 1890

East McDonough [Chenango Co., NY]:  Alfred Corbin, who has been sick for a long time, died on Tuesday last.  His funeral was held at his late home on Friday, Rev. Mr. Billman, of Oxford, officiating.  Mrs. Corbin's father, Mr. Van Wagenen and his daughter, of Jersey City, were present.  Mr. Corbin was a man of sterling integrity and of a genial, pleasant disposition, and was highly respected by the community where he has lived from boyhood.  His bereaved wife and children have the sympathy of all.

Sarah E. (Van Wagenen) Corbin

April 16, 1846 - October 1911

Mrs. Sarah Elizabeth Corbin, who had been in feeble health for several months, died at the family residence on Clinton street at 11:35 o'clock Monday morning in the 66th year of her age.  Mrs. Corbin was born April 16, 1846, at Jersey City Heights, N.J., and was the daughter of Jacob and Jane (Van Buskirk) Van Wagenen.  Her marriage to Alfred Corbin of McDonough occurred during the year 1870, and immediately after she went with him to reside on the Coville farm near East McDonough. The death of Mr. Corbin occurred about 22 years later.  He was a descendent of the Tracy family, his mother being a niece of Uri Tracy, a missionary to the Indians and the first principal of Oxford Academy, who came to this village in 1791.  Soon after the death of her husband, Mrs. Corbin came to this village to reside.  She was one who enjoyed a quiet home life, devoting her time to her children and to acts of charity. She was a friend and neighbor whose passing away will be deeply felt.  Mrs. Corbin is survived by three children, William H. Corbin, Mrs. Willard E. Cronk and Miss Grace J. Corbin, all of this village; and a sister, Mrs. Catherine Wilson of Irvington, N.J.  The funeral was held at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon at the home, Rev. Inman l. Willcox, D.D., officiating.  Interment was in Riverview cemetery [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY]

Alice (Eddy) Smith

1851 - 1911

Mrs. Alice E. Smith, widow of the late William A. Smith, died at her home in New Brighton, Staten island, Saturday, Feb. 25, aged 59 years.  Mrs. Smith leaves one son, Charles Smith, Syracuse, and one daughter Nellie Smith, of New Brighton.  the remains were brought here on Sunday afternoon and the funeral was held Monday afternoon at the residence of H.C. Dent at 2:30, Rev. Geo. R. Foster officiating.  Interment was made in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

John W. Manning

1837 - 1911

John W. Manning of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], well known in this section of the county, died Friday, October 20, aged 74 years.  Mr. Manning was the son of Ira and Mary (Treadway) Manning and was born in the year 1837  He was educated in Oxford Academy, where he made a number of friends during his school life in this village. He married May 9, 1866, Martha W. Hull of this town, youngest daughter of Alanson and Wealthy (Warner) Hull.  Mr. Manning was a kindly man and a good neighbor, and one who was highly esteemed.  He was a consistent member of the Congregational church for a great many years.  He is survived by his wife and children, Frank, Elizabeth and William; one daughter, Mary, died in 1889.  Also a brother, Ira D. Manning, and a sister, Mrs. Allen Napier, both of Greene. The funeral was held at the Congregational church in Coventry Monday afternoon, Rev. S.A. Warrender officiating.

Franklin Mudge

February 13, 1911

Franklin I. Mudge died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E.L. Andrews, February 13.  Mr. Mudge suffered from a stroke of paralysis last August and was after that time confined to his bed until the end came.  Deceased was born at Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY] May 20, 1833, and spent  the early part of his life in that vicinity.  Later on he resided at Oxford, Coventry and Harpursville. About sixteen years ago he buried his beloved wife, and after that he made his home among his daughters, spending the greater part of the time with his daughter in Bainbridge.  Mr. Mudge was a good citizen, honorable and upright in his dealings with men and had many friends.  He united with the Baptist church at Harpursville many years ago and was a consistent and devoted follower of Christ until death.  Four sons and -?- daughters mourn the [passing of their father.]

Obituaries (August 31)

John J. Stoddard

October 15, 1823 - May 10, 1911

John J. Stoddard entered into rest at his home in Coventryville [Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday, May 10, after having been in failing health for several months. The funeral was held at his late home Saturday, the services being conducted by Rev. G.P. Linderman pastor of the Congregational church here, and burial was made in the Coventryville cemetery.  The deceased was born Oct. 15, 1823, at the old Stoddard homestead, now owned by Leroy Shaw, and spent nearly all of his life in this place, and was the oldest resident in this part of the town, being 87 years old.  He only lacked one year of having reached his Golden Wedding anniversary, having married in 1862 Miss Lucelia Judd, who through all these years having been a very loving wife and she has as blessed memory the fact that, during nearly a half century of life together, she has never had an unkind or cross word from her departed husband.  Mr. Stoddard had a strong mental and physical constitution, and was a wide reader and deep thinker, and was better informed on general topics than most people in his sphere in life.  He was a successful farmer, a devoted husband and father, a kind neighbor, a pleasant, interesting conversationalist, and will be much missed in the community, and by a large circle of friends. Though never having united with the church, he was a frequent attendant at the services, and had the best interests of the church, and its advancement at heart, and stood firmly for what he believed to be right and was a very earnest and helpful friend and neighbor of the various pastors who have served the church here.  His grandfather and wife came from Connecticut in 1801, and were among the pioneers of this place, and very instrumental in maintaining public worship and organizing and sustaining a church here, and the grandfather was one of the men who read sermons to an audience and conducted service before there was a church, as those early settler, though none of them professors of religion at the time, felt that they ought to have some Sabbath observance.  And when in 1817 the Congregational church was organized, the grandmother was one of the fourteen original members, and her husband was later made Deacon, as was also in after years their son, John Stoddard, Jr., who was the first Sunday School superintendent and held the office 25 years.  He was the father of John Stoddard, third, who has just passed away.  The deceased is survived by his widow of this place and a daughter, Mrs. Will Hinman, and her husband and son of Lestershire, and by two sons, Fred and wife and children of Coventryville, and Arthur and wife of Susquehanna, Pa. and one sister, Mrs. Sarah l. Lloyd of Washington, D.C. and one brother, Rev. Elijah Stoddard of Succasunna, N.J., all of whom were at the funeral except Rev. Elijah Stoddard, who though 91 years of age is with the aid of an assistant, still actively serving the Congregational church of which he has been pastor for 47 years.

George Rice

July 1911

The body of George Rice, who resided near Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], was found early Wednesday morning in the driveway of the Central Hotel at Afton [Chenango Co., NY].  He came into town on Tuesday evening and hitched his horse in front of some stores. At 11:30 the horse was still standing there, and also at 3 a.m.  At 4 o'clock the horse, minus the bridle, was found in the yard of Superintendent Davis on upper Caroll street.  The body of Rice was found lying in the driveway about daylight.  He was about 30 years of age. Dr. Dodge and coroner Chapin of Green performed an autopsy and the stomach was sent to Binghamton for examination. Further developments are awaited with interest.

Afton Enterprise, July 20, 1911

The community was shocked yesterday morning to learn that a dead body had been found in the alley way between the Galpeer store and the Central House.  Such alleged facts as we have been able to glean regarding the matter are as follows:  George Rice, who lives on the farm next above G.B. Wilkins at Wilkins Settlement, drove to town late in the afternoon and hitched his horse in front of Morgan Bros. store and went in and inquired for some mowing machine part.  Not having them, Glen Morgan directed him to G.B. Goodnoug who has the agency for that style of machine.  Of course no one thought anything more about Mr. Rice.  Just what he did after that seems to be a mystery to everyone.  His horse remained tied to the post in front of Morgan's store for a long time, but this morning the bridle only was found there and the horse and wagon was found in a yard up on Caswell Street. The theory is that the horse broke away and started for home.  R.E. Fowler who has a livery stable in the rear of the Central house discovered the body of Rice as he was going to the stable early in the morning.  He summoned Dr. Dodge and undertaken McHugh and the body was taken to the undertaking rooms to await the arrival of Coroner Chapin of Greene.  He came about ten o'clock and with Dr. Dodge performed an autopsy.  Practically nothing was given out regarding the result of this autopsy, but the stomach was sent to Binghamton for chemical analysis.  The deceased was in the habit of drinking, it is said, and a weak heart has been suggested as the cause of the death. The heart was found to be sound by the doctors, however.  No  marks of violence were found upon the person. The deceased leaves a wife and two small children.

Ernest Southworth
Chenango Telegraph, January 6, 1911

Ernest [Southworth], only child of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Southworth died Sunday after an illness of only a few days, aged three years. The funeral will be held Tuesday afternoon at the home. A particularly sad feature of this death is the fact that Mr. Southworth's mother, Mrs. T.A. Southworth of Coventry, died Sunday morning, after a long illness.  And his father, T.A. Southworth is very ill and not expected that he can live but a few days.  Much sympathy is expressed by everyone for the afflicted family.

Truman Alvin Southworth

April 25, 1844 - January 5, 1911

It is very unusual that a family is called upon to lose three of its members by death in less than a week, but such has been the sad experience of the family of the late T.A. Southworth who resided here for a long time, three years ago moving to Coventry, leaving their son, Ray, and family at the former home here.  Owing to illness of the parents Ray and family had been at Coventry several weeks caring for them, and a week ago, Saturday, December 31, his mother died [Mary Elliott Southworth], and also his little son, Ernest, nearly three years of age, and the following Thursday Mr. Southworth also passed away. The funeral of the grandchild was held in this place last week Tuesday, Rev. G.P. Linderman of this place officiating.  The funerals of Mr. and Mrs. Southworth were each held at Coventry and burial there.  mr. and Mrs. Southworth were each about 66 years of age and highly respected citizens and kind and helpful neighbors and will be much missed. They are survived by two sons, Guy of Coventry and Ray and wife of this place, who have the deep sympathy of the community in this, their double bereavement.

Obituaries (August 29)

Margaret (Richmond) Church
1840-1912

Mrs. Margaret Church, whose home was on the Tyner road, died shortly after 10 o'clock Monday evening following a few days illness with pneumonia.  Her age was 72 years.  Mrs. Church was the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Richmond, and was the widow of Edwin W. Church, whose death occurred several years ago.  She was a member of the Congregational church in this village, and a woman who was held in high esteem by those who knew her best.  She is survived by two sons and one daughter, Ray and Frederick Church, and Miss Ella Church.  Also by six sisters and three brothers, Mrs. Annette Church, Mrs. Edwin Van Valkenburgh, Mrs. Emma Simmons, Mrs. H.E. Ingraham, of Oxford, Mrs. H.E. Ingraham of Oxford, Mrs. James Barrows of McDonough, and Mrs. C.P. Sharp of Smithville; Wm. L. Richmond, Geo. H. Richmond and Orla Richmond of Oxford. The funeral was held at one o'clock today at the house, Rev. Inman L. Willcox officiating.  Burial was in Riverview cemetery [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].

Syndonia (Gleason) Church
1836-1923

Mrs. Syndonia Gleason Church, widow of the late George W. Church of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Adelbert Cornish LaFayette, on Wednesday, Oct. 31, aged 87 years.  The body will be brought to Oxford this Friday afternoon and a prayer service will be held. Burial will be made in Riverview [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].

Dr. John W. Thorp

1839-1911

Dr. John W. Thorp, for fifty years a teacher, physician and highly respected citizen of this village, died at his residence on mechanic street [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] at noon today, aged 72 years.  He was ill only about five days with pneumonia.  Dr. John Warren Thorp was born at Booth Bay, Maine, April 20, 1839.  He was educated at Bowdoin College, graduating in the class of 1861.  In that year he came to Oxford as an assistant teacher in Oxford Academy under the principalship, of David G. Barber, and later became principal of the school, a position he filled acceptably for several terms.  On the change to a Union School and Academy Dr. Thorp became a member of the Board of Education and its president for several years.  At the time of his death he was a trustee of the Memorial Library, an office he held form its foundation.  After about six years of teaching he studied medicine with the late Dr. S.F. McFarland, completed courses in the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York city and the medical School of Maine, beginning the practice of medicine in this village in 1868.  He has been a deacon of the Congregational church and its clerk for many years.  Dr. Thorp married May 9, 1865, Charlotte M. Brown of this village, who died January 20, 1907.  As a teacher Dr. Thorp was beloved by his pupils; as a physician he was skilled, kind and considerate; as a citizen he was esteemed and his counsel often sought, and his religious life was a model one. The doctor was public spirited and gave freely of his means in aid of Oxford's institutions and enterprises.  Always pleasant and agreeable it was a pleasure to converse with him, a trait that made life long friends on first acquaintance.  Our village has cause to mourn the death of one of its finest citizens.  The children of Dr. and Mrs. Thorp are:  Rev. Willard B. Thorp of San Diego, Cal., Rev. Charles N. Thorp of Chelsea, Mass., and Mrs. Mark K. Law, deceased. Besides the sons, Dr. Thorp is survived by two sisters, Misses Emily D. and Caroline Thorp, of Booth Bay, and three grandchildren, John Law of Brooklyn, and Willard and Margaret Thorp of Chelsea. The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon at the house.

Charlotte (Brown) Thorp

Chenango Telegraph, January 22, 1907

Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Charlotte Brown Thorp, wife of Dr. J.W. Thorp, died at her home on Merchant street, Sunday morning.  She was forced to undergo an operation recently, but had seemed to be recovering until last week when she began to fail rapidly.  When it was seen that her death was imminent, her children were sent for.  Rev. Charles W. Thorp, pastor of the First Congregational church of Chelsea, Mass., arrived early Saturday morning.  The other son, Rev. Willard B. Thorp, pastor of the South Congregational church of Chicago, did not reach here until the 4:20 train Saturday afternoon.  His mother seemed to live by sheer force of will until he reached her bedside. After talking with him for a short time, she became unconscious, and remained so until her death Sunday morning, at 5 o'clock.  Mr. Thorp was born in Oxford and passed all her life here.  Her father was a well known merchant on Main street.  Her mother died early and her father married again.  Mrs. Thorp as a girl is well remembered by many as a sunny, bright child. She graduated from Oxford academy, and married Dr. J.W. Thorp, then principal of the academy.  Beside the sons already mentioned, there is a daughter, Mrs. Mary Law, whose husband is a professor in a New York school.  Her bereaved husband, who is one of the best known physicians of this locality, commands a widespread sympathy from a large circle of friends.  Mrs. Thorp has, with him, been an active worker in the congregational church in Oxford, being a leader in all the woman's work.  She was seen at all social gatherings and was active in every public work.  Some time ago she was much interested in the Woman's Relief corps.

Julian Williams Lindsay

Chenango Telegraph, January 22, 1907

North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  This community was greatly shocked Sunday noon to hear of the rather sudden and untimely death of Julian W. Lindsay of malignant scarlet fever, after an illness of only one day Julian Williams Lindsay was the son of Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Lindsay and was born in this place June 21, 1902.  Julian will be greatly missed not only in his own home, where he was the pride of his father and mother's heart, but by all who knew him.  Being of a pleasant and loving disposition he made many friends who were always pleased to see him.  He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Lindsay and his grandfather, Julian Williams, to whom are extended the sympathy of the entire community in their sad bereavement. Burial was made this morning in Riverview cemetery.  On account of the severe nature of the disease, there was no public funeral.

Flora Felt

Chenango Telegraph, January 22, 1907

North Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY]:  This whole community is saddened by the death of Mrs. Flora Felt which occurred after a brief illness Thursday evening last.  She was but 26 years old and is survived by a daughter, 8 years of age.  Her father and mother, two sisters, Mrs. Frink and Mrs. Robert White of Norwich, and a grandmother, aged 90 years, also survive her.  Funeral services were held Sunday morning, Rev. G. Grotsinger officiating.  Interment was made at South Plymouth [Chenanog Co., nY]

Obituaries (August 27)

James Harvey Benedict
June 5, 1852 - April 12, 1913

James Harvey Benedict, a prominent farmer of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], died Saturday morning from a shock sustained early in the previous morning, mention of which was made in The Review of last week.  Mr. Benedict was the eldest child of the late Caleb and Lucia Symonds Benedict of Smithville and was born 61 years ago.  He married, September 21, 1882, Lottie M. Stafford, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Stafford of this village.  Mr. Benedict was industrious and a hard working farmer, quiet in his ways and seldom leaving his home for any length of time. He is survived by his wife, an adopted son, Edwin; one sister, Mrs. Floyd Breed of Smithville, ad one brother, Ellis C. Benedict of Amsterdam.  The funeral was held at the house on Tuesday morning at 11 o'clock, Rev. A.O. Austin, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Chruch in this village, conducting the services.  Burial was in Riverview cemetery [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].  Among the many floral pieces was a beautiful wreath given by neighbors and friends.

Lillian (McFarland) Cline
1872 - April 14, 1913

Lillian McFarland [Cline], wife of Arthur E. Cline of Boston, died Sunday night at the Moore-Overton  Hospital in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], following an operation.  Death was caused by lack of vitality to stand the shock.  Her age was 40 years.  Mrs. Cline was the daughter of the late Charles Arthur and Charlotte Webb McFarland and was born on the old homestead south of the village.  Her education was gained in the district school and at Oxford Academy, and for a number of years she was a stenographer in the State Hospital at Ogdensburg.  On the 2d of June 1906 she married Arthur E. Cline of that city, where they resided till their removal to Boston last summer.  Early in March Mrs. Cline came to Oxford and on Thursday of last week with her twin sister, Mrs. V.D. Stratton, went to Binghamton to undergo an operation.  The news of her death came as a shock to friends unaware of her serious condition.  Besides her husband, she is survived by two sisters and a brother, Mrs. Melvin B. Stratton and Mrs. Vernon D. Stratton of Oxford, and Ira McFarland of Indian Springs, Nevada.  

Near and dearer are the blessed dead

Than we are wont to think.

When with farewells and tears we bow the head

Beside the solemn brink,

And are they not then nearer, whom we see

With eyes no longer blind?

And is not love the sweeter, if it be

Of an immortal kind?

Oh, comforting, sweet thought--that though we stand

On death-divided shores,

Love still can stretch to us its angel hand,

And lay its heart on ours!

Edwin Brown Flagg

February 13, 1863 - April 29, 1913

With the taking away of Edwin Brown Flagg, Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] has lost a true and conscientious character, such a quiet and unassuming man, that it doubtless never occurred to him that his influence was wide, that his life was at all remarkable and that no other life that touched his could fail to be impressed and helped.  Mr. Flagg, who resided with his niece, Mrs. Millard C. Loomis, was confined to his room a little over a week with a severe attack of typhoid fever, the end coming Tuesday afternoon at about 4 o'clock.  He was born in Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] Feb. 13, 1863 and was the son of Henry and Sarah Mosher Flagg.  Completing his education at Oxford Academy he remained on the farm till he entered the store of Carl & McNeil in this village, following which he with Oscar J. Carhart purchased the Tyner Butter and Cheese factory, conducting that business for nearly two years or until they sold to George Stiles.  Mr. Flagg then worked at farming and carpentry and in January, 1902, came to Oxford and was appointed carrier on rural route no. 1, succeeding George Rugg, the first carrier whose death occurred a few weeks after the route was established.  In January four years ago he became deputy postmaster under M.D. McNeil, continuing in the office till Feb. 1, this year. During his work as carrier and as deputy in the postal service he was always obliging and efficient.  Often on the route when the roads were impassable, walking long distances that the patrons might receive their mail.  Mr. Flagg was an industrious, honorable citizen, diligent and dependable in all walks of life, and believing that whatever was worth doing at all was worth doing well.  Kindly and sympathetic in manner, a believer in clean living, one who enjoyed long walks over the country, peaceable and good natured, he has been an excellent citizen, and there are very many who will regret his passing.  The deceased was a vestryman of St. Paul's Chruch, Past Master of Oxford lodge, No. 175, F.&A.M., member of Oxford chapter, No. 254, R.A.M., and of Norwich Commandery, No. 46, Knights Templar.  He is survived by one sister, Mrs. M. D. McNeil.  The funeral was private and held at the house at 1:30 o'clock Thursday afternoon, Rev. Theodore Haydn officiating. The service of Riverview cemetery was in charge of Norwich Commandery.  Oxford lodge acted as escort.  The commitment at the cemetery was by the Rev. Mr. Olmsted of Norwich Commandery, who gave full Knights Templar service. The floral tributes were many and beautiful. Among them were a square and compass form Oxford Lodge, a wreath on an easel from the rural delivery carriers, a pillow from the postoffice employees, wreath from Homer friends, and offerings from the Tyner Baptist Church, vestrymen of St. Paul's Church, and from numerous friends.

George D. Cowles

June 1843 - December 22, 1912

George D. Cowles, a lifelong resident of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] and a well known farmer, died at 3 o'clock Sunday morning, after an illness of only four days with pneumonia. Mr. Cowles was born in June, 1843 near the place where he had always lived.  His parents were Carlos B. and Lois Hubbard Cowles, who were well known in their day.  He married Maria A. Sharp. He owned a very large farm and was known as a honest, upright man, a kind husband and a loving father.  He had an extensive acquaintance throughout the county and was an active member of Pomona Grange.  Surviving Mr. Cowles are his wife, two daughters and two sons, namely, Mrs. George H. Day of Brisbin, Mrs. Frank Hollenbeck of Smithville, Leon Cowles of Tyner, and Dell E. Cowles of Watertown.  The funeral was held at the home Tuesday morning at 11 o'clock, Rev. George R. Foster of Greene officiating.  At the interment which was in Sylvan Lawn, Greene, Eastern Light Lodge no. 126, F.&A.M. of which Mr. Cowles was one of the oldest members, conducted the services.

Guilford Central School Freshman Class of 1954

Guilford Central High School

Freshman Class - 1954

Left to Right
Row 1:  J. knoll, G. Howard, H. Bourn, advisor, Mrs. Salzberg, D. Dexheimer, A. Abbey
Row 2:  J. Burt, E. Harrington, S. Loomis, j. Seaman, F Barber, H. Davis, D. Tibball
Row 3:  R. Hill, H. Crandall, A. Joslyn, J. Merlino, D. Chesbro, T. Ingham, W. Wescott

Obituary (August 26)

Angeline R. (Burrows) Lounsberry

Sept. 1, 1835 - Dec. 12, 1908

Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Angeline Lounsberry passed away early Monday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Charles Van Woert, after a short illness of one week.  She was a member of the M.E. church, in which she was a ready and willing worker.  A kind friend and neighbor, and a loving mother and grandmother. She leaves to mourn her loss five daughters.  Mrs. Hattie Chalker of Windsor, Mrs. Eva Hungerford and Mrs. Julia Paddleford of Greene, and Mrs. Alice Handy and Mrs. Gertrude Van Woert of Coventry; two sons, Eugene Lounsberry of Church hollow and Judson Lounsberry of Chenango Forks, besides a number of grandchildren and other relatives. The funeral will be held at the house on Thursday at 11 o'clock, Rev. Grant VanWoert of Bainbridge will officiate. Burial will be at Greene [Chenango Co., NY].  Her age was 72 years. The family have the sympathy of the community, for all loved and respected Mrs. Lounsberry.

 Franklyn D. Wood

May 15, 1832 - Feb. 6, 1908

The remains of Franklyn D. Wood who was for years engaged in the photographic business in Greene [Chenango Co., NY], were brought here for interment, on the 4 p.m. train, Saturday.  The deceased had resided in Troy, Bradford Co., Pa., for the last 17 years, and had been a great sufferer from rheumatism for a number of years.  He was found dead in bed on the morning of Feb. 6th, retiring the night before in his usual health.  He was aged 75 years, 8 months and 22 days.  He is survived by his wife, Dr. M. F. Wood of Syracuse, and one son, R.V. Wood of Berwick, Pa., besides several sisters residing in Connecticut and this state.  His sudden demise came as a great shock to all his friends. The family wish to extend their thanks to those who acted as pall bearers.

Henry Loomis

1832 - 1908

Henry Loomis, a highly esteemed resident of the town of Smithville Center [Chenango Co., NY], died Saturday night, aged 76 years.  He had been ailing slightly for about six months but was not regarded as anything dangerous.  He fed the stock the evening before.  he had been doctoring during the week, but had not been very bad off till Saturday, when he was taken worse in the morning, and steadily declined until he died about 6:15 in the evening.  Mr. Loomis was born in Smithville on the farm next adjoining where he lived at his death.  his parents were Vincent and Cyntha Moore Loomis.  He was married in 1853 to Caroline R. Landers, who died in 1900.  He again married in 1904, to Mrs. Sarah Lewis.  His entire life had been spent in the town of Smithville, and since 1854, he has resided on the farm where he died.  Besides his wife he is survived by one daughter,  Mrs. Fred Dibble of this village, two sons, Burdett H. and Millard C. Loomis of this village.  Funeral was held at the house yesterday morning at 11 o'clock, Rev. W. W. Watrous of McDonough officiating.  Interment was made in Tyner cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].

M.D. Howard

Afton Enterprise, November 15, 1888

M.D. Howard, of Jordan [Onondaga Co., NY], formerly of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], died very suddenly of paralysis of the stomach, at his home in that place last Wednesday night.  During the forenoon of the day preceding his death he was about his business as usual, and after dinner he appeared as well as ever.  At about two o'clock he complained of feeling bad and went to his home and went to bed.  Medical aid was summoned, but all to no avail, and it was evident to his family and friends that the end was near.  After lingering until about nine o'clock, the same evening he gently passed away.  Mr. Howard formerly conducted a furniture and undertaking establishment in this palce, but about four years ago he moved to Jordan and engaged in the same business.  Mr. Howard was an honest, upright business man, and had many friends in Afton and elsewhere who were greatly shocked to hear of his death.  He leaves a wife and two daughters, aged respectfully 13, and 16 years, besides a large circle of relatives and friends to  mourn his loss. The remains were brought to Afton for burial and were interred in Glenwood cemetery, Rev. N.B. Ripley officiating.  Deceased was a member of the Masonic fraternity and the A.O.U.W., having two policies of $2,000 each in the latter organization   His age was 51 years.

Stephen P. Waldron

Afton Enterprise, November 15, 1888

Stephen P. Waldron, of Great Bend, for many years a conductor on the D.L.&W. railroad, was killed Saturday evening at Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY].  He was running extra 40, a coal train, from Syracuse to Binghamton, and the train stopped at Chenango Forks, while he registered on the train book. After registering he went out of the depot, and was not seen again until station agent Mills found him lying outside the tracks, dying. There were bad wounds on the forehead and on the back of the head, and the face was badly bruised.  He lived about an our after the accident.  His cap was found on the pilot of the engine, so it seems most likely the pilot struck him and then shoved him out of the way, but just how it occurred is a mystery.  Mr. Waldron was nearly sixty years of age, and has been in the service of the D.L.&W. Co. for many years.  He was very well off, and worked more because he could not leave the road than for a living.  His estate is estimated at $40,000.  He leaves a wife and three children, one of whom is a brakeman on the main line of the D.L.&W.  -Binghamton Republican.

Obituaries (August 25)

John Bliss Willoughby

October 21, 1821 - November 8, 1908

John Bliss Willoughby, son of David P. and Charlotte McNeil Willoughby, was born on the McNeil farm Oct. 21, 1821.  On Oct. 15, 1840, he married Mary Ann [Race], daughter of  Nicholas and Annie Davis Race of Greene.  They passed their sixty-eighth wedding anniversary Oct. 15, 1908.  He had spent his life in this town, as a farmer, and was a familiar figure on our streets.  Mr. Willoughby is survived by his wife, a daughter, Mrs. David W. Bartle of Buffalo; two sons, Rector W. Willoughby of Howard, Col., and Chester B. Willoughby of Hartford, Me.; two grandsons and one great-grandson.  Mr. Willoughby had been growing feeble for the last few years, and as a result of a shock in August he was taken to the State Hospital in Binghamton, where he died Nov. 8, of acute erysipelas, aged 87 years.  His daughter was with him a few days and brought the remains to Oxford, where the funeral was held at the residence of Romaine Jackson and burial was made in TenBroeck cemetery at South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Hamilton Yeager

ca 1833 - May 3, 1908

Hamilton Yeager, the aged victim of the Quinnieville outrage of two years ago, died at his home Sunday morning at 11 o'clock.  Death was indirectly due to the brutal treatment the old man received at the hands of the four ruffians who broke into his home and robbed it.  In spite of his age the old man put up a stiff fight with the robbers and it is said would have come off victorious but for his wife, who begged him to give up, fearing the robbers would murder him.  However, since that time the old gentleman's physical condition has been failing.  "Quinnieville" is a little hamlet in the town of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] near the Broome county line.  Details of the crime are familiar to readers of the Times as is the conviction of the robbers, three of whom are in prison and the fourth, a youth, is out on bail, he having confessed and implicated the older members of the gang.  Mr. Yeager was 75 years of age. The funeral will be held tomorrow, burial in Sylvan Lawn cemetery at Greene.

Chenango Telegraph, May 5, 1908

Greene:  Hamilton Yeager died Sunday morning at 11 o'clock.  Dr. W.S. Overton of Binghamton, the attending physician, gave the cause of death as due to the pounding he received in the famous brutal Yeager robbery about two years ago.  Mr. Yeager was 75 years of age.  He is survived by his wife. He had been in failing health since the robbery and had been irrational for the past three weeks. The funeral will be held on Thursday at 11 o'clock from the home in the town of Greene, near Fenton. Rev. C. R. Hickok of New Berlin will officiate.  Interment will be in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery.

Mariette Moon Pearsall

1844 - 1908

The passing away of Mariette Moon, wife of Hon. Edgar A. Pearsall, occurred Monday evening at 6:30 o'clock. Death was caused by an acute attack of paralysis agitans, which had been severe since February 9.  Mrs. Pearsall had been afflicted with the disease for about ten years.  When the first symptoms were obvious, she consulted a noted New York specialist, who held out no hope. Since that time the disease gradually grew worse until culminating in her death.  Mrs. Pearsall was born in Coventry January 31, 1844, and was the daughter of Fletcher and Polly (Dole) Moon.  She was married to Mr. Pearsall October 11, 1865, and they continued to live in Coventry until 1894, when the family moved to this village, where they have since made their residence.  Mrs. Pearsall was of a retiring disposition and her home was her kingdom.  However, while slow to make friendships, they were usually life friends.  As a neighbor she was highly esteemed, and her devotion to her family knew no bounds.  Besides her husband she is survived by two sons, Ernest Pearsall of Port Jervis and Harry E. Pearsall of this village and one daughter, Miss May Pearsall of this village. She is also survived by one brother, James moon of Coventry. The funeral will be held Thursday morning at 11 o'clock at the family residence on Clinton street, and will be in charge of Rev. R.A. Gates of the Baptist church, assisted by Rev. T.W. Harris of the Congregational church.  Interment will be made in Coventry cemetery.

Obituaries (August 24)

Dr. Louis P. Blair

July 8, 1853 - January 1908

Advices were received here Monday announcing the death of Dr. Louis P. Blair of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], at the General Hospital in Buffalo Sunday, from Bright's disease. Dr. Blair had been ill about a year, although he had been more or less a sufferer from diabetes for several ears. The best medical skill was secured, but was only successful in prolonging his life a few months, as it seemed certain that he could not get well from the beginning.  Dr. Louis P. Blair was born July 8, 1853 on his father's farm in the town of Chenango, Broome county, and was the son of A. Edson and Caroline Blair.  In early life he worked on the farm, and after he completed his common school education he taught school for a few years.  he began the study of medicine with Dr. J.A. Pettit of Buffalo, and followed with a course at the Buffalo Medical College, and later at the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville, from which he graduated in 1877.  Dr. Blair came to McDonough in 1878 or 1879 from Castle Creek, N.Y.  He was 55 years of age.  As a physician he built up an extensive practice and was known throughout the county.  He leaves a large estate, including several good farms.  In politics he was a Republican, holding the leadership of his town many years.  He has served as postmaster and represented his town on the Board of Supervisors.  He had many strong friendships, and because of an arbitrary ad intolerant temperament, occurred some enmity.  In the practice of medicine he showed a great capacity for sympathy and kindness, but always exacted the utmost loyalty from his friends.  Dr. Blair was married twice, his first wife being Mary Slater of Triangle, NY., who died in 1902.  He was again married August 2, 1907 to Miss Mary Bliven of McDonough.  He is survived by his wife, four sisters, Mrs. Moody of New Haven, Conn., Mrs. W.H. Bristol, Mrs. Stevens and Mrs. H.B. Johnson, and  a nephew, Morris T. Blair of Binghamton.  The funeral service was held yesterday in Buffalo, and was in charge of Rev. W.W. Watrous of McDonough.  The remains were cremated and it is probable that the ashes will be taken to Binghamton, where his wife is buried in Spring Forest cemetery.

Luther Clayton Wakeman

May 1908

On Saturday afternoon Mrs. Watrous and grandchildren while in a piece of woods about a mile from Bainbridge village [Chenango Co., NY] in search of wild flowers, discovered the body of a man.  The lady immediately went to the nearest house and notified the occupant, Mr. Deforest, who is turn notified the undertaker.  Coroner Johnson of this village was summoned by telephone and after giving directions for the removal of the body to the undertaker's rooms, went to Bainbridge to determine the cause of the man's death.  The body was badly decomposed, having evidently lain where found several days. The body was identified as that of Luther Clayton Wakeman, and more fully so by Mrs. Hutchinson, a sister, who had been summoned from Afton. Wakeman was a single man, 30 years of age and of intemperate habits.  He was a man of all work about farms and in the village and was in the habit of taking a by--path through the woods where his body was found in going to places where he worked.  He was last seen alive on Monday, the 11th inst., which is supposed to have been the day of his death.  The body was on the knees beside a tree with the heard partly under, and there was every evidence that Wakeman had stumbled and fallen, striking his head against the tree. The blow broke his neck and death occurred instantly. There were no indications of foul play, and the coroner decided that death was due to an accidental cause.  Besides the sister above mentioned, deceased is survived by his mother who resides in Oneonta and two brothers who reside in Lestershire.

Middletown Daily Argus, May 25, 1908

Luther Wakeman disappeared form his home at Bainbridge on Tuesday and his whereabouts were not discovered until Friday, when his body was found on Pruyn Hill near the cemetery.  The Coroner was called and after examining the body found the neck was broken. The Coroner attributed the death to an accidental fall. Wakeman was about 30 years of age and was not married.  He had worked at various occupations about Bainbridge and was well known. The inhabitants consider his death a mystery and not everybody believes that it was possible for him to have broken his neck by falling.

Philo S. Mead

February 1908

A McPherson, Kansas paper in mentioning the death of Philo S. Mead, which occurred in that city February 10th, of inflammation of the bowels of which malady he had suffered several previous attacks, says:  "Mr Mead's death marks the end of a life that has been interwoven with the history of McPherson almost from its beginning.  He came here over thirty years ago, and in modest quarters, engaged in the loan business which he continued until the time of his death.  He was modest in his habits, almost to the point of eccentricity and although he owned a great deal of property in McPherson county and was rated as one of the wealthiest men in the country, his life was very common.  Although he at no time permitted the facts of his charitable works to be made public, it was known that he contributed large sums of money to philanthropic work.  He was  a faithful member of the Presbyterian church and took an active interest in religious and especially in missionary work.  Philo S. Mead was about sixty-five years old.  He is survived by his wife and only daughter, Miss Grace Mead, who is attending college at Colorado Springs.  Mr. Mead had several cousins in the east but no closer relatives.  Mrs. Ward Kinney of this city is a sister of Mrs. Mead."

William Allen

July 21, 1908

William Allen was found dead in his home in Bainbridge village [Chenango Co., NY] Tuesday afternoon, July 21.  Mr. Allen had been ill with Bright's disease since last December.  Mrs. Allen is employed at the Park hotel, going to her work in the morning and returning at night. The dwelling in which they lived is a double house, a Mrs. Neff and her son occupying the other part.  Mrs. Neff not seeing Mr. Allen about the house as usual sent word to Mrs. Allen who, thinking that something serious had happened, had Mr.  Hall, her employer, accompany her home. They found Mr. Allen on the floor dead. Dr. Evans, Allen's physician pronounced death due to Bright's disease.  Mr. Allen was 38 years old and his sole surviving relative [is his wife].

Bainbridge Republican & Express

July 23, 1908

Will Allen, a young man about 30, residing on the upper end of Bixby street, was found lying dead on the floor of his room Tuesday afternoon.  His wife is engaged as a domestic at the Park hotel in this village.  Monday night she was not at home and Tuesday when Mr. Allen did not appear about the house as usual the neighbors notified Mrs. Allen who came to the house and made the discovery.  A physician was summoned and the cause of death was pronounced to be due to acute Bright's disease.  Mr. Allen had been a suffered from kidney malady and was in very poor health.

Nellie Williams

March 13, 1908

Nellie Williams, 25 years old, employed as maid in the family of Samuel A. Marshall in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] disappeared from his home Friday night and is thought to have taken her own life. Tracks were found leading from beneath a window at the Marshall home, across the fields to the banks of the Chenango river, swollen with the spring floods. There were no return tracks.  Friday night, instead of going to her room upstairs, Miss Williams told Mrs. Marshall that she thought that she would sleep on the lounge downstairs.  Going to her room she got a pair of work shoes and placed them at the head of the lounge.  Saturday morning the family found no breakfast awaiting them.  Miss Williams had mentioned going to visit her relatives in Madison county and it was first thought that she might have left early in the morning to go there. After dinner, however, Mrs. Marshall became thoroughly alarmed and telephoned to police headquarters.  Investigation showed tracks leading from beneath the window of the room in which the girl had slept to the banks of the river. Then it was recalled that the window had been found open that morning.  Outside was found a sidecomb which belonged to the girl. The tracks were evidently made by a person walking in stocking feet.  Search developed the fact that Miss Williams had left her hats, coats and practically all of her clothing.  Sunday morning and afternoon parties dragged the river below the point indicated by the tracks from the Marshall house.  Dynamite was also used to cause the body, if in the river, to come to the surface, but without avail.  Search of the river banks failed to reveal any trace of the missing girl.  Miss Williams, whose parents live in Madison county [NY], and who has a sister living in Cazenovia, was a bright attractive young woman. At times it is said that she had appeared melancholy, but that she had always appeared brighter and more cheerful afterward. So far as it is known there is no reason for her to have taken her life.

Body Recovered

May 1908

The body of Miss Nellie M. Williams, who disappeared from the home of S. A. Marshall in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the night of March 13, and who was believed to have been drowned, was found lying on some driftwood on the north end of a small island in the Chenango river, about a mile below the village Friday morning.  The discovery was made by two young men while fishing, the one who first discovered the body being named Crook. The remains were badly decomposed and were not easily recognized as those of the missing girl, but close examination of the clothing and other means of identification established the fact that it was Miss Williams. The coroner was notified and the body removed to an undertaking establishment and made ready for burial.

The dead woman was the daughter of Humphrey Williams of Cazenovia and had made her home in Norwich for several years. She had been in the employ of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall for the past year, and retired on the night of March 13, sleeping in the parlor on a couch. She had removed her outer clothing and her shoes.  Her watch, pocketbook, ring and other valuables were found on the table the next morning, as she had laid them down, but the room was vacant. A window was open and beneath the window the prints of a stockinged foot was plainly discernible.  The tracks were traced to near the bank of the river, which runs about thirty rods from the house, and there all trace of her was lost. Search was made up and down the river, but owing to high water, no clue was found, and it was believed by some that she might not have bene drowned after all.  Her father and sister were notified and spent many anxious days in searching for her body. A reward of fifty dollars was offered by her father for the recovery of the girl and many men entered into the search.