Obituaries - K

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Obituaries were submitted by Judy Simpson unless otherwise noted.

Jack KALIPS 

June 6, 1890
Clinton Public

ACCIDENTALLY KILLED.
Jack Kalips, an Illinois Central Conductor, Killed Himself with a Revolver.

The early part of last week Jack KALIPS, who was a freight conductor on the Illinois Central, was promoted to be yardmaster at Decatur, and he moved his family from Clinton to that city. The work did not suit him, and on last Tuesday he telegraphed to Fred REED, train master of the southern division, to go down at once to Decatur and relieve him. It seems that in the morning the Wabash men made it unpleasant for Jack by switching in a lot of cars on his tracks that should not have been put there, and Jack, being high spirited, had some trouble with the men. When he went home at noon he ate dinner and then lay down for awhile to rest, after which he got up to go back to his work. Before leaving home he took out his revolver and was putting it in order, probably with the intention of taking it to the freight yard in case of any more hostility with the Wabash men. One of his little boys was with him while he was fixing the revolver. Mrs. KALIPS was in the house attending to her work when she heard the report of a revolver. Going to the front door she found her husband sitting back on a chair with a gaping wound in his forehead. Her shrieks alarmed the neighborhood, and medical aid was at once summoned. Jack lived about three hours after receiving the fatal wound.

Jack Kalips was twenty-six years old on the day he was killed. He had been in the employ of the Illinois Central for a number of years, beginning as a brakeman on a freight train and in due time being promoted to a conductorship. He leaves a wife and two sons, the oldest of the boys being four years of age. He lived in Clinton for a number of years, and only moved from here the early part of last week. He was a member of the Odd Fellows at Macon, Ill., where his body was taken on Wednesday for burial.

Mrs. Albert D. KARR 

January 20, 1899
Clinton Public

Mrs. Mella [Mildred] KARR, wife of A. D. KARR, departed this life on Saturday morning of consumption.  She had been confined to her bed for over twenty-five weeks.  She bore her affliction with meekness, and did not complain.  She leaves to mourn her demise a loving husband, two sons, one daughter, a father, two brothers and two sisters.  She united with the Christian church when quite young in years, and always attended the church of her choice as long as her health would permit.  Elder M. F. Ingraham conducted her funeral on Sunday at 11 o'clock at Sugar Grove M. E. church cemetery, where her remains were laid to rest to await the great resurrection.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
KARR, A. D.     HICKMAN, MILLIE F.      04-23-1884     DE WITT

Sugar Grove Cemetery:
Karr, Albert D.     (Father)      1860-1944
Karr, Mildred F.     (Mother)      1868-1899

Arthur C. KARR 

March 17, 1899
Clinton Public

Arthur C. KARR died at the home of his son, P. A. KARR, at the McLean County Farm on Monday eve at 5:15. He had been in feeble health for about a year but was taken seriously ill only two weeks ago. He went from his home in Wapella on a visit to his son about three months ago and never felt really able to return home. Death resulted from gastric trouble complicated with valvular insufficiency, "heart" failure.

He was born in Hamilton Co., Ohio, Dec. 30, 1827. When a small boy, he moved with his parents to Hamilton Co., Ind. On Dec. 26, 1849, he was married to Miss Sarah Jane QUINN, who survives him. In 1855 they moved to near Des Moines, Iowa, where they resided until 1864, when they came to Illinois and settled at Wapella, where they have since resided. Nine children were born to them, one of whom, Robert, died in infancy. The others are as follows: Philip A., supt. McLean Co. Farm; John W., living in Kansas; Mary E. and Emma E., at home; Henry H., of Seattle, Wash.; William C., of Chicago; Samuel W., of Waynesville; and Mrs. Grace GOSSETT, of Wapella. He also leaves a brother, John W., living in Western Nebraska.

In early life Mr. Karr was a farmer but in 1862 he began working at the trade of wagon maker which he followed until his health failed about ten years ago. He was a member of the Christian church which he united with in 1867, and had been a Mason since 1849. Two years ago he went back to Hamilton Co., Ind., the old home place of his boyhood days. He was a worthy, upright and conscientious man.

His remains were taken home on Tuesday afternoon and the funeral was conducted by Eld. Ingraham on Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. at his late home. He was buried in Wapella and Long Point cemetery near the Christian church by the side of his son.

Barton S. KARR 

October 7, 1910
Clinton Register

DIED IN KANSAS.

News came Oct. 2 that B. S. KARR, who was born and reared in Long Point and lived at Wapella several years, and moved twenty-five years ago to Kansas, died on Sunday morning at his home in Peabody, Kas. The funeral was held in that city Tuesday at 2 o'clock p.m. He has been a member of the Christian church since he was 15 years old. At the time of his death he was serving in the office as one of the elders of the church in that city. He was married to Alice, a daughter of the late Elija W. and Mary J. SWEARINGEN October 14, 1873. To this union were born three children, two dying in infancy. He had been ailing for four or five months with kidney trouble. He leaves a wife, one son, Ernest, of Enterprise, Kas., and one brother, A. D. KARR.

Note: From the 1880 census and his cemetery record, his full name was Barton S. Karr.

James W. KARR 

February 4, 1910
Clinton Register

CLINTON MAN DIES IN A FEW HOURS.
Was Among the Oldest Residents of the County and was a Prominent Contractor.

Saturday James W. KARR worked in his home all day preparing for papering. While he had not been feeling well as usual for sometime, he did not feel any worse after his day's work until about 10:30 that night. He awoke at that time and was almost unable to talk. He told his wife he was very sick, and that there seemed a weight on his breast. She telephoned for a doctor and when he arrived he realized there was little hope for his recovery. He remained two hours, and left with a promise to return at 9 o'clock next morning. He awoke at 5 o'clock and being so strongly impressed that he should not delay going to see Mr. Karr at once, he went soon as he could. He was then sure there was no hope, and the end came about 5 o'clock that evening.

James W. Karr was born in Harrison county, Ohio, Nov. 4, 1836, and lived 73 years. His parents, John W. and Mary KARR, resided in Ohio until 1840 when they came to Illinois, locating in Wapella township near Sugar Grove, where he lived most of his life. His first marriage was to Jane SWEARINGEN. Three children were born to them. His wife died in 1871 and in 1872 he was married to Rebecca SWEARINGEN. To them were born five children. He moved to Nebraska in 1886 and returned in 1899, making his home in Wapella for a year when he moved to Clinton, which has since been his home.

He was a carpenter and contractor and during his residence in Clinton had built several houses. He was a member of the Christian church at Wapella when the church was organized and was deacon and elder.

Besides his wife, Mr. Karr is survived by two sons, Thomas, of Oklahoma, and Harry, at home; three daughters, Mary ELLIS, of Clyde, Mo.; Leona HUNNECKE, of Clinton, Iowa; and Mrs. A. K. SPRAGUE, of near Clinton. He also leaves one brother, W. S. KARR, of Wapella, and three sisters, Mrs. William ALLISON, of Rantoul; Mrs. Martin TEACH, of Fisher; and Mrs. P. A. KARR of Hendryx.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday morning at the home, 507 West South street, conducted by Rev. Albert Schwartz. The pall bearers were C. W. SHORT, W. T. TURNER, A. SUMMERS and J. R. BELL, of Wapella; E. B. MITCHELL and B. C. SPRAGUE of Clinton. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery.

John E. KARR 

September 29, 1899
Clinton Register

John E. KARR died at 4 o'clock Tuesday morning and the remains shipped to Wapella and buried Wednesday at 2 o'clock at the Long Point Christian cemetery. Charles, his son, accompanied the remains here. He was born on the farm lying one mile north of the county line known as the Dr. McFarland place. He was the son of James and Louisa KARR, who died several years ago. He was one of seven children, leaving his wife, who is in very poor health, also a babe very sick and six children, 3 brothers and two sisters. He was 46 years old. Mr. Karr moved from here to Mississippi in 1896 and remained there until 1898, selling his farm of 160 acres at a good profit. At the time of his death he was residing in Carbondale, Ill. While moving in July he was thrown from his wagon and his leg was broken and two ribs crushed; he was getting around on crutches when he was stricken with typhoid fever and was sick about two months, which resulted in his death.

Mr. Karr served several terms as school director and fulfilled his office to the letter; also constable, justice of the peace and city marshal and served his office well. He has many friends here who were pained to learn of his death. Politically he was a Democrat. Rev. A. J. Robertson officiated at the grave with scripture lesson and prayer and offered condolence and sympathy to the bereaved ones left behind.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Philip KARR 

April 4, 1879
Clinton Public

Philip KARR, after a long protracted illness, passed the way of all the earth on Saturday, March 29th, and on Sunday at 3 o'clock was buried at the Sugar Grove Cemetery beside his wife, Sarah KARR, who preceded him but a short time, dying in January last. Both were carried away by consumption. The knowledge of the rapid approach of death and much long suffering were borne with meekness and resignation. Both were professors of Christianity and kind and sociable neighbors.

Rebecca (SWEARINGEN) KARR 

July 15, 1910
Clinton Register

Death of Mrs. J. W. Karr.

Mrs. J. W. KARR died Sunday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A. K. SPRAGUE, three miles west of Clinton. She had been ill for the past year and was confined to her bed during the last six weeks of her life. Death was caused by a complication of diseases and old age.

Mrs. Karr was born in the Long Point neighborhood near Wapella October 8, 1844, and was a daughter of Elijah and Mary J. SWEARINGEN. In 1872 she was united in marriage to J. W. KARR who died last Jan. She is survived by the following children: Mrs. A. K. Sprague, with whom she was making her home, Harry of Clinton, and Mrs. Leona HUNECKE of Clinton, Iowa. Four brothers and three sisters also survive: W. A. SWEARINGEN and J. L. SWEARINGEN of Chicago; and E. F. SWEARINGEN of Canton; Mrs. B. S. KARR, of Peabody, Kansas; Mrs. R. S. ROLOFSON, of Maryville, Mo.; and Mrs. A. D. METZ of Wapella.

Mrs. Karr united with the Long Point church when she was a girl 16 years old and had always retained her membership there. The funeral was held at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning, the services being conducted by Rev. E. A. Gilliland of Lincoln, in the Christian church in this city. The burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Thomas KARR 

May 5, 1911
Clinton Register

Thomas Karr Killed.

W. F. Swearingen received a message Monday that Thomas KARR had been killed in Oklahoma by falling from a window of a house on which he had been working. He was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. James W. KARR. The remains were shipped to Clinton and the body was interred in Sugar Grove cemetery by the side of his mother.

A copy of the Lawton, Oklahoma, Constitution, sent to this office by a Register reader, gives a full account of the accident. It states that Karr had been ill for two weeks at his room in the Illinois hotel, and he apparently, while delirious, had walked out of the second story window, falling to the concrete walk beneath. Physicians were shortly on the spot, but Karr was dead. He was a member of the Lawton Carpenters' union and was respected by all with whom he came in contact in that city. The union looked after caring for the body.

Deceased was the son of J. W. Karr, deceased. The family formerly lived at Wapella. He leaves one sister, Mrs. May ELLIS, of Guilford, Mo. A half brother, Harry, a carpenter, of Clinton, and two half sisters, Mrs. Lena UNECK, of Clinton, Iowa, and Mrs. Nell SPRAGUE, west of Clinton.

Thomas KEATING 

November 25, 1887

Death of Thomas Keating

Last Sunday Thomas KEATING, of Wapella, departed this life. His death was not unexpected, nor was he unprepared for it, for he had been an invalid for several months. Thomas Keating was born in the County of Limerick, Ireland, in the year 1821. He lived in his native land till he had reached man's estate, and then he came to this country and lived in McLean county for a number of years. He then came to this county and bought a piece of land, and later bought the farm on which he had lived for the past sixteen years. In his early life Mr. Keathing did not accumulate much of this world's goods, but for the last eighteen or twenty years, the balance was always in his favor.

A few words of his history may benefit others. During the first years Mr. Keating lived in this county, he was fond of a social glass, and being convivial in his nature, he spent his earnings freely. One day he came into Wapella with his brother with a lot of hogs which he sold. Before he was ready to go home his money was all gone. This set him to thinking of the folly of his ways. For months he had worked hard to raise the corn that he had fed to the hogs, and then in the end the proceeds had nearly all gone into the till of the saloon-keeper. That day he made up his mind that another dollar of his money should never go to keep a saloon-keeper in idleness and luxury while his own family needed what he was foolishly spending. Both John and Thomas Keating faithfully kept their vows, and from that day on there were no more prosperous farmers in DeWitt county than the two brothers.

At the time of his death, Thomas Keating owned one of the finest farms in the county, and everything around him betokened happiness and comfort. No kinder husband and father was there in Wapella township. He was a generous friend and a kind neighbor, and his pocket-book always promptly responded to every worthy call for benevolence. Another noble trait of his character was he would never stand by and hear anybody abused or slandered. His motto was: "If you have nothing good to say of a person for God's sake say nothing at all." His heart was warm for his native land although he was intensely American in his views. He loved the land of his adoption. The Catholic Church loses a liberal supporter and his neighbors a kind, warm-hearted friend. His life and his example were a benediction and worthy of being emulated.

Mrs. Thomas KEATING 

December 3, 1909
Clinton Register

Mrs. Thomas KEATING died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Margaret SOMERVILLE, northwest of Wapella. Deceased was born in County Clare, Ireland, 76 years ago and came to America fifty-five years ago, the most of which time she has resided in that [this] vicinity. She is survived by six children: Thomas KEATING, Kansas City, Mo.; Mrs. James TIERNEY, of Clinton; Mrs. Thomas RYAN, Wilson township; Mrs. Hannah NORTON, Butler, Mo.; Mrs. Nora HANLEY, Cass county, Mo.; and Mrs. Margaret SOMERVILLE, Wapella. Mrs. Keating was married in Ireland and on coming to America she and her husband settled in McLean county. In 1868 they moved to Harp township, where on Nov. 20, 1887, Mr. Keating died. For the last three years Mrs. Keating had been making her home with Mrs. Somerville. The funeral was held Monday at 10 a.m. in St. Patrick's church in Wapella, conducted by Father Monahan. The interment was in the Catholic cemetery north of Wapella.

Ruth Leona KEEFER 

August 1902
Funeral Card

Died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. O. WARNER in Farmer City, August 13, 1902, 11 a.m., Ruth Leone KEEFER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William KEEFER, aged 1 year, 9 months, 28 days. Funeral: home of Mr. and Mrs. O. WARNER, August 15. Burial: City Cemetery.

Submitted by Bob Halsey

Lydia (BAKER) KEENE 

August 3, 1906
Paper Unknown

DIED AT WAYNESVILLE

Mrs. Lydia KEENE died at 1 o'clock Saturday, aged 29 years, 9 months and 9 days. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel BAKER. Her father dying when she was six months old, she was adopted by her uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob BAKER. Oct. 19, 1892, she was united in marriage to John A. SOVERNS, and to them were born two children, Iva and Daisy. Three years after their marriage, death entered their home and took the father and two little ones from her. In 1897 she was married to B.C. KEENE. To this union were born four children, three of whom survive, one dying in infancy. Services were held at the Fairview Christian church at 3:30 Monday.

James J. KEGARICE 

April 25, 1884
Clinton Public

Answered the Last Roll Call.

James J. KEGARICE enlisted in the war for the Union in the Forty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry and served over two years, when he was discharged on account of injuries received while working on a fortification. The exertion of raising heavy timbers caused some internal injury which unfitted him for duty. He was sent to a military hospital at Keokuk, Iowa, where he remained for about five months. Not regaining strength so that he could return to duty, he was discharged and came home to Clinton. After somewhat regaining his health he got a position as freight conductor on the Illinois Central road, and when the G. C. & S. road was being built he left the Central and took a position as conductor of a construction train. Later he was a freight conductor on the G. C. & S. road. Then he joined the construction gang on the Havana and Champaign road (now the Wabash) and worked there till the road was completed. For the past seven or eight years he was in the insurance business, working through the State of Missouri.

All these years he suffered more or less from the injuries received while in the army, and about six years ago he noticed a swelling on his breast near the region of his heart. This grew larger gradually, and as it increased in size his health began to fail. Eight or ten years ago Mr. Kegarice was a robust-looking man and probably weighed over two hundred and twenty-five pounds. For the past few years he was almost a skeleton, barely having vitality enough left to keep him breathing. He had counseled with the most skillful surgeons in St. Louis, and they told him there was no relief. An operation performed on the growing protrusion would surely be fatal. A few months ago he came home to die. He knew his doom and manfully bore up under it. He had made application for a pension, but could not get his claim through owing to a defect in the chain of testimony. When the editor of THE PUBLIC was in Washington last February he stated to Captain Rowell Mr. Kegarice's condition, and also told the Captain that if any benefits came from a pension to Mr. Kegarice it would have to be granted soon. The next morning, after having the conversation, Captain Rowell went to Gen. Dudley, Commissioner of Pensions, and made such a forcible statement of the case that the pension was at once allowed. In less than three weeks Mr. Kegarice received over $1000 back pension and a future award of $8 per month.

Four weeks ago Mr. Kegarice went to Ohio to visit his mother, whom he had not seen for twenty years. He also visited other friends, and this week was stopping with a cousin in Indiana, intending to come home from there and arrive here yesterday. On Wednesday afternoon Mrs. Kegarice received a dispatch from the cousin in Indiana announcing the death of Mr. Kegarice. No particulars were given. That evening Mr. R. H. PHARES and Mr. F. C. DAVIDSON started to bring the body. It will probably arrive (unreadable word) morning. (First part unreadable.) …funeral services will be arranged today, and it is more than likely that the ceremonies will be conducted by the Grand Army of the Republic. The funeral services will take place on Sunday afternoon, at the late residence of the deceased.

Charles Raymond KELLER 

Date Unknown
Paper Unknown

Father of Wapella Man Died Thursday

(Obituary Extract)
Name: Charles Raymond KELLER of Xenia; father of Billie Joe KELLER of Wapella
Age: 70
Born: Clay County
Died: at 12:30 a.m. Thursday in Clay County Hospital, Flora
Parents: William and Bessie (SAPP) KELLER
Survivors: wife, one son, a daughter, his mother, two brothers, two sisters, and seven grandchildren
Funeral at John T. FRANK Funeral Home, Flora

Submitted by Debbie Champion

W. A. KELLER 

September 8, 1899
Clinton Register

W. A. KELLER, father of Mrs. Asa WHITE, of Clinton, died at his home near Farmer City, Sept. 2, aged 56 years. His wife and two daughters survive him, the other being Mrs. Harry FARMER, of Farmer City.

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

Dr. Thomas KELLEY 

March 2, 1906
Clinton Register

DR. THOMAS KELLY'S SUDDEN DEATH.
Born in Illinois—
Lived in Clinton—
Served in the Civil War and Moved to California.

The following account of the death of Dr. Thomas KELLEY, formerly of Clinton, is from a San Jose, Cal., paper, where he had lived many years.

Dr. Kelley was born in Logan county, Illinois, in 1836, and lived for a number of years at Clinton, Ill. He was the son of Alexander and Lucinda (ANDERSON) KELLEY, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Kentucky. The Kelley family is of Irish lineage and the Andersons Scotch; both were established in America at an early period during the settlement of the new world. Dr. Thomas Kelley was one of a family of eight and at the outbreak of the Civil war he enlisted in Company K, Forty-first Illinois Infantry, of which his father was captain under Colonel Isaac C. Pugh. He joined the army as a private, but owing to gallantry shown on the field of battle he was mustered out as a First Lieutenant, September 8, 1866. His regiment served in the armies of the Cumberland and Tennessee, participating in the battles of Fort Henry, Fort Donelson, Shiloh, siege of Corinth, siege of Vicksburg and under Sherman in his march to the sea.

He was for one time under General Grant, and the only time he was wounded was at Jackson, Miss., when he received a bullet in the thigh. The effect of the wound remained with him until his death.

Dr. Kelley at the close of the war, began his medical instruction under the preceptorship of Dr. John Wright, at Clinton, Ill., after which he entered Rush Medical College at Chicago, where he graduated in 1871. He started almost immediately for California where he settled first at Santa Clara and later moving to San Jose. He established his office in this city October 1, 1876.

He served one term as county physician, two years at the O'Connor Sanitarium and a term as president of the County Medical Society. In 1899 he was appointed postmaster for San Jose, which position he held for five years.

His second wife, Sarah A. WATKINS, whom he married in 1864, died in San Jose, July 5, 1903. He wedded his first wife, Alice LEEDS, in 1858, who died in 1862. By his first marriage a son was born, A. M. KELLEY, now an orchardist, near Morgan Hill, who was at one time city editor of the Mercury. By the second marriage there were three daughters— Lessie, the wife of Charles LEADBETTER, of Portland, Ore., Elizabeth, who is assistant Librarian at the San Jose Public Library, and Nannie KELLEY.

Note: A biography written about his son, Alphonzo Kelley, in The History of Santa Clara County, gives Thomas’s birth date as September 18, 1836, and his death date as February 14, 1906.

From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
WATKINS, WILLIAM RUSSELL PAUL    WHITTLE, SARAH ANN    1856-03-08     DE WITT
KELLEY, THOMAS    WATKINS, SARAH A. MRS.    1864-05-16     PERRY

Charles C. KELLOGG 

December 26, 1916
Clinton Daily Public

FUNERAL OF C. C. KELLOGG TODAY.
One of Oldest Residents of City Passed Away Last Saturday.

The funeral services of Charles C. KELLOGG, one of the oldest residents of Clinton, who died in his home 317 West Adams street Saturday night at 9 o'clock following a several years’ illness of heart trouble, were held at the family residence this afternoon at 2:30 o'clock. Rev. A. W. McDavitt, pastor of the Universalist church, which church Mr. Kellogg was a charter member, officiated. Burial was at Woodlawn.

Mr. Kellogg was born in Stowe, Vermont, Feb. 23, 1835. When he was thirty-eight years old he came to Illinois to join his sister, Mrs. Richard SMITH, who was already in this state. Mr. and Mrs. Kellogg were married Jan. 1, 1874, in Elgin, where the latter had lived but a very short time, having come from Vermont to this state. Immediately after their marriage they came to DeWitt county and after three years here moved to Humbolt, Ia., where they spent seven years. Returning to Illinois they lived on their home farm, now the Skelly place north of Clinton. For the past seventeen years they have lived in the present home.

Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Kellogg, two of whom are dead. The surviving children with his aged wife are: Mason KELLOGG, Richards, Mo.; Mrs. Helen BAUMAN, Algone, Ia.; Mrs. Mary CISCO, Wapella; Mrs. Myra GROVES, DeWitt; and Mrs. Carrie SLY, Plymouth, Mich. Miss Jessie KELLOGG, a granddaughter, and daughter of Mason Kellogg has always lived with her grandparents. There are twelve grandchildren living.

Mrs. Nason E. KELLOGG 

March 7, 1902
Clinton Register

DEATH OF MRS. KELLOGG.
Young Wife Dies At Her New Home in Texas—
Clinton Was Her Old Home.

Mrs. N. E. KELLOGG died suddenly Tuesday morning at her home near Houston, Tex., of fever. She gave birth to a child a few days before her death. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ed DANELS, of this city, was married about four years, and was 21 years old. The husband and three children survive her. The family moved to Texas a few weeks ago and lived on a large farm owned by Mr. Kellogg’s father, W. W. KELLOGG. Mr. and Mrs. Kellogg started to Texas in answer to a telegram of the dangerous illness of their son’s wife, but had been gone only a short time when another telegram was received announcing the death of Mrs. Kellogg. Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Kellogg were telegraphed and received the news when the train reached Assumption, south of Decatur, but decided to go on to Texas, telegraphing their son to not start to Clinton until they arrived. The remains will arrive here tomorrow at 1 o'clock and will be taken to the Kellogg residence on North Madison street. The time of the funeral will not be decided upon until tomorrow afternoon.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Death Index:
KELLOGG, MASON E.    DANIELS, JESSIE L.    1898-03-28     DE WITT
Note: In the census he was listed as Nason E. Kellogg. W. W. Kellogg never married. Nason was the son of Charles C. and Orlantha (Adams) Kellogg, so whoever wrote this article was very confused.

Wallace W. KELLOGG 

August 12, 1898
Clinton Register

AT A RIPE AGE.
Another of DeWitt County's Pioneers Closes Life's Journey—
Funeral Held Tuesday.

"Like one who wraps the drapery of his couch about him and lies down to pleasant dreams." W. W. KELLOGG passed from life to death early Monday morning at the home of his brother, Chas. C. KELLOGG, one mile northwest of Clinton. He had been afflicted with Bright’s disease several years, and during the last few months had been confined to the house part of the time.

Wallace W. Kellogg was born in Vermont nearly 75 years ago, coming to this county in 1852, locating on a farm near Clinton. He was never married and had lived with his brother. He was one of those quiet unassuming men who are highly esteemed by friends, and seldom had an enemy. Though he had not united with any church, perhaps few nearer lived up to the teachings of the Bible. Politically he was a Republican.

Funeral services were held at the residence Tuesday at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. James A. Clark, assisted by Rev. B. F. Stacy. Music was rendered by the Universalist choir.

Rev. Mr. Clark in his discourse made mention of the personal characteristics of the deceased. Spoke of him as a quiet, unassuming man, who, while apparently caring but little for what made others happy, yet was leading a life that was satisfying. His peaceable nature was against all strife, and his ideals of right were praiseworthy. The remains were laid to rest in Woodlawn cemetery by the side of a beloved sister, Mrs. SMITH. A large number of friends were in attendance at the funeral. As the procession wended its way to the cemetery it was headed by the well known horse and buggy which Mr. Kellogg had driven so long.

Capt. Alexander KELLY 

February 5, 1892
Clinton Public

Yesterday afternoon, February 4, Captain Alexander KELLY, at the age of seventy-nine years, four months and twenty-eight days, departed this life at his home on East Washington street. Captain Kelly was one of the old settlers of DeWitt County, having lived here over sixty-two years. He was a native of Lexington, Kentucky, being born September 6, 1812. When he was but fifteen years old he came to Illinois and for about three years worked on a farm near Springfield. The cheap land in this county was an inducement for a party of young men to come from Sangamon County and locate here, and in 1830 Captain Kelly bought the farm in Creek township on which he lived till a few years ago, and there he married Miss Lucinda ANDERSON and raised a family of eight children, four girls and four boys. Six of the family are still living. John KELLY, the oldest son, died in the army, and Harrison KELLY died in this city a few years ago. When the war broke out Captain Kelly was fired with patriotism to protect the flag of his country and he enlisted in Co. K, forty-first Illinois, raised in this county and went into the service as captain. He remained with his regiment till broken health compelled him to resign. A number of years ago he sold his farm and came to Clinton to live with his daughters. The funeral services will be at his home tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon, at two o'clock, conducted by Rev. W. A. HUNTER.

Cornelius KELLY 

November 9, 1888
Clinton Public

Sad Ending to a Useful Life.

Clinton was shocked last Saturday morning with the intelligence that Cornelius KELLY, a prominent and wealthy farmer of Texas township, had committed suicide. It was a surprise to every body, for not even the members of his own household had noticed anything out of the usual course in his daily life.

Mr. Kelly owned a fine farm of two hundred and forty acres, in Texas township, on which was one of the best residences in the township. Recently he bought another farm of one hundred and twenty acres, for which he paid $70 an acre, and to this new farm he gave a great deal of time and attention. The probabilities are that he overworked himself, and added to this his health had been poor since last spring. He was a man who dreaded the thought of being in debt, and although the amount he owed on his new purchase was a mere bagatelle to a man of his wealth, yet all things combined made him despondent. Last Friday it rained so that his hands could not go to work in the cornfield, and one of them went to Decatur and wanted Mr. Kelly to go with him. This he would not do as he had no special business to call him to that city, and when the man left the barn Mr. Kelly was laying on the hay complaining of feeling tired. When the noon hour came he did not go to the house to his dinner, but his family thought nothing of his absence as he was in the habit of leaving home in the morning to work on his farm and often would not return till late in the evening. At the evening meal Mr. Kelly was still absent, and then his wife and daughter came to the conclusion that he had gone to Decatur and would not return till the midnight train. Not coming home then, his family began to feel uneasy, and the next morning, by daylight, they sent the hired man over to Mr. Gilbert KELLY's farm to have him go over to the house. A search was then made for Mr. Kelly, and his son finally found his body in the hay loft suspended by a rope to one of the timbers in the roof. In order to strangle himself Mr. Kelly had to bend his knees to clear his feet from the hay in the mow as the distance between the rafter and the barn floor was not more than five feet. The probabilities are that he committed the fatal act shortly after the hired man had left the barn on Friday morning, for he was not seen again alive.

Mr. Kelly was born in Preble county, Ohio, on the 3d day of January, 1829, and at the time of his death he was fifty-nine years, nine months and twenty-nine days old. He was married in Butler county, Ohio, to Letta B. COX on the 13th of November, 1850, and in the month of March, 1857, he came to DeWitt county and for one year lived in Tunbridge township. A year later he bought a farm in Texas township, where he spent his life. He was the father of five children, three boys and two girls. One of the boys died. His oldest son, G. C. Kelly, is chairman of the board of supervisors of this county, to which position he has been unanimously selected for three consecutive terms. Cornelius Kelly was a man of prominence in his neighborhood, which was attested last Sunday by the large number who followed his body to its final resting place in the Maroa Cemetery.

Gilbert C. KELLY 

October 16, 1891
Clinton Public

Death of the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors.

After a long struggle with that most deceptive of all diseases, Gilbert C. KELLY quietly passed from time to eternity yesterday afternoon, in the thirty-ninth year of his age. Eight years ago he was stricken down with preliminary symptoms of consumption, and soon the disease showed that it had a confirmed grip on him. The climate of Alabama, Texas and Colorado was tried in vain, for while he might have temporary relief it was only that coming from a change of scene. In the prime of his young manhood death calls him hence.

Gilbert C. Kelly was born in Texas township on the 24th of June, 1853, and died on the farm where he was born. When eighteen years old he began teaching school, which occupation he followed during the winter, and in the summer months he assisted his father on the farm. Desiring the better to qualify himself for school work and also for farm life he began a course of instruction in 1874 at the Illinois University in Champaign. In 1884 he was united in marriage with Carrie H., daughter of Mr. Edwin WELD. In 1886, he was elected to represent his township in the board of supervisors, and before the close of his first term he was elected chairman to fill the unexpired term of Smith FULLER, who had been elected county treasurer. Every year since that time Mr. Kelly was elected chairman of the board. He was a Democrat in politics, but in the discharge of his official duties he was free from partisanship. He recognized his Republican colleagues and always gave them a fair share of chairmanships on the important committees. As a presiding officer he was courteous, and was always prompt in dispatching business so that no unnecessary cost would arise from long sessions.

Mr. Kelly was a prominent man in the councils of his party, and had it not been for his health he would have been called to fill more lucrative offices. He was proud of his position as chairman of the board of supervisors, and he honored the office by his manly bearing and public spirit. A new court-house has lost one of its strongest advocates in the death of Chairman Kelly. The funeral services will be held in the Presbyterian Church, tomorrow morning, at eleven o'clock, after which his remains will be buried in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Col. Joseph J. KELLY 

January 30, 1903
Clinton Register

FORMER CLINTONIAN DEAD.
Col. J. J. Kelly Passed Away at His Home in Los Angeles, Cal., Last Week.

News of the death of Col. J.[Joseph] J. KELLY was received here the first of the week.  He was sick about two weeks.  He was born in Ohio in 1827, and in 1858 he came to Clinton as a young lawyer, and was prominent in this county until 1881, when he moved to Lincoln, Neb., where he lived until 1899, when he moved to Los Angeles, which had since been his home.  In this county he held city and county offices besides practicing law.  For several years he was the law partner of M. Donahue, who still lives in Clinton, and they had an extensive practice.  He also held a good appointment as bank examiner in several states under President Hayes.

He is survived by one son, W. R. KELLY, formerly a Clinton lawyer, now attorney for the Union Pacific railroad; also by two daughters, Mrs. L. K. LEMING, of Los Angeles, and Mrs. J. E. HOUTZ, of Lincoln, Neb.

Nora KELLY 

August 9, 1889
Clinton Public

Miss Nora KELLY, sister of the Hon. G. C. KELLY, chairman of the board of supervisors of this county, died at the residence of her mother in this city last Tuesday morning. The funeral services were held in the Presbyterian Church, conducted by Rev. W. A. HUNTER, on Wednesday morning, after which the remains were taken for burial to the Maroa cemetery. Miss Kelly was born in Texas township in the year 1865, and at the time of her death she was in her twenty-fourth year. Her disease was consumption, but till the time of her father's death there was no symptoms of it and she was the picture of perfect health. Her great grief following the sad death of her father completely broke down her nervous system and from that time till her death her decline was rapid. Mrs. KELLY moved to Clinton about three months ago with her two daughters and bought property in Lawndale.

Thomas KELLY 

February 24, 1893
Clinton Public

There came to DeWitt County in the year 1869 and settled on a farm near Weldon, Thomas KELLY. He was a native of Sumner County, Tennessee, and was born on the 16th of November, 1818. In 1842 he was united in marriage to Susan F. GREGORY, and seven children were born to them. They came to Illinois in 1854 and first settled in Mason County, living there fifteen years before moving to Weldon.

Mr. Kelly died last Friday, in the seventy-fifth year of his age, and on Saturday he was buried in the Weldon Cemetery, Rev. Duncan McARTHUR officiating. Mr. Kelly was an earnest Christian man and made his home and the world better for his living in it.

W. H. Harrison KELLY 

February 9, 1883
Clinton Public

W. H. H. KELLY died at the home of his father in this city on last Saturday morning, and on Sunday afternoon his body was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, the Masonic fraternity taking charge of the funeral ceremonies. Harrison Kelly had lived in this county from boyhood, and his life was spent on a farm. During the winters for many years he taught country schools, and was quite successful as a teacher. About three years ago his health failed and his disease finally developed into consumption. About a year ago he went to California in the hope that a change to that milder climate would be beneficial, but he gradually grew weaker, and a few weeks ago he came home to die. He was but a young man, having reached only the age of thirty-eight. He leaves a wife and two children to mourn in sadness that a loving husband and father was so early called to the unknown world.

William S. KELLY 

November 28, 1884
Clinton Public

DIED BY HIS OWN HAND.
William S. Kelly Wandered Off to a Strange Town in Missouri to End His Life.

On Monday morning Mr. John G. DAVIS, Chancellor Commander of Plantagenet Lodge, No. 25, Knights of Pythias, in this city, received a dispatch from Carrolton, Missouri, signed by Mr. J. W. POLAND, Chancellor Commander of the lodge in that town, announcing that Wm. S. KELLY had committed suicide in that town some time during the previous night. After consulting with the brothers of the deceased, Mr. Davis sent a dispatch requesting the Knights of Pythias of Carrolton to forward the body here for interment. This was done and the body arrived in Clinton by express on Tuesday morning. Nothing is known of the causes that led Mr. Kelly to commit the rash act. He was a stranger in Carrolton and had only arrived there on Sunday. When he left Clinton he went to Wellington, Kansas, with the view of finding a location in which to engage in business. Arriving at Carrolton on Sunday morning he stopped at the Planter's House, and not feeling well toward evening he sent for a physician, who prescribed for him. The doctor says that he found him in an exceedingly nervous condition. Kelly went out to a drug store to get the prescription filled, and to the druggist, who is a Knight of Pythias, Kelly made himself known as a member of the order. The prescription was given to Kelly and lighting a cigar he left the drug store. It was supposed that he went direct from the drug store to a retired part of the town, where he shot himself, for nobody in Carrolton again saw him alive. A colored man going to his work early on Monday morning discovered the dead body of Kelly. By his side was a pistol. With this he had fired a shot into his right temple, which must have produced instant death. In Kelly's pockets were several receipts for dues from Plantagenet Lodge of this city, a number of certificates of deposit from John Warner & Co., a valuable gold watch, $225.75 in money, a baggage check from the Wabash road, and a number of letters from a lady friend living in Wellington, Kansas. The lady formerly lived in Clinton. The receipt for dues from Plantagenet Lodge identifying Kelly as a member of the order, the Knights of Carrolton took charge of the body immediately after the inquest and prepared it for transmission to Clinton. On the arrival of the body here on Tuesday morning it was met by a deputation of the members of his lodge and escorted to the home of Mr. Thomas Kelly.

Poor Will Kelly! No one dreamed that such would be his fate. Eight or ten years ago he came to this city to work in Mr. J. S. WILSON's bakery. He was an expert workman and earned for himself a good reputation. A few years ago he bought out O. W. STRONG's bakery and went into business for himself. Afterward his two brothers, Wesley and Thomas, went into partnership with him. The firm flourished and made money. Will Kelly was afflicted with inflammatory rheumatism, and to obtain relief from that terrible disease he had made frequent trips to Hot Springs. While there he was always free from pain. Finally he decided to sell out his interest in the firm of Kelly Bros. and make his home permanent at Hot Springs. During the early part of the fall he came back to Clinton and remained a few weeks, and then he started off to go back to the Springs. His brothers heard nothing from him from that time till the sad tidings of his death reached Mr. Davis last Monday morning.

Will had stood the racks and tortures of pain as long as he was able to bear them, and then quietly went to a strange town, where he was unknown, and ended the struggle. His funeral was from his brother's home last Wednesday afternoon. The ceremonies were conducted by Plantagenet Lodge, of which he had been an active member for several years.

Anderson KEMP 

May 1, 1914
Clinton Register

AGED RESIDENT OF KENNEY.
Anderson Kemp, A Prominent Farmer of Texas Township Died Tuesday Night.

Tuesday evening at 6:30 at his home in Kenney Anderson KEMP, a prominent farmer of Texas township for several years, passed away, advanced age being given as the cause of his death. He was about 85 years of age, yet until a few months ago had enjoyed the best of health.

Anderson Kemp was born in Tennessee September 26, 1829, and came with his parents to Illinois at the age of three months, so that this state had been his lifelong home. They first settled in Scott county, where they lived several years, later moving to Macon county, where the parents died at an advanced age. Anderson remained on the farm with his parents until he arrived at the age of manhood, when he was married to Mary Ann FUNK, a native of Morgan county, and the young couple at once began the work of preparing for a home of their own. Deceased was a successful stock raiser and farmer, and during this lifetime had bought and improved five farms, the last being in Texas township, on which he lived until retiring from active duty, when he moved to Kenney. His first farm was in Morgan county, the Texas township farm being purchased in 1863. Mr. Kemp and wife were the parents of seven children, the following surviving: James M. and Albert, of Kenney; Mrs. Samuel CRAIG, of Clinton; Andrew J. and Ivan M., of Kenney. The following children preceded the father to the other shore: Daniel M. and Anderson L.; C. F. KEMP, deputy county clerk, is a grandson of deceased.

Deceased was an all-around good citizen, always being interested in any matter which would tend to the public good of his community. Politically he had always been a Democrat, casting his first vote for Seymour and Blair. He had served his township as school director, school trustee and road commissioner. Both he and his wife were leading members of the Texas Baptist church, which stood near their home. In the church he had filled the offices of both deacon and trustee.

Funeral services were held from the Baptist church near Pastime Park at ten o'clock Wednesday morning in charge of Rev. Flanigan of Springfield. Interment in the Baptist cemetery, two miles east of Kenney. Mrs. KEMP is quite feeble on account of her advanced years, and was unable to attend the funeral.

Note: His full name was Anderson Marshall Kemp.

Daniel M. KEMP 

September 13, 1907
Clinton Register

DIED NEAR LINCOLN.

Yesterday evening at his home, 3 miles north of Mt. Pulaski, Daniel M. KEMP died of pneumonia, aged about 50, being sick only a few days.  Deceased was born in Texas township and lived in this county all his life until last spring when he moved to Logan county from near Rowell.  He had been married twice and is survived by his second wife, also by three children, one of them, Mrs. Elva DEAN, living in Kentucky.  He is also survived by his parents, Anderson KEMP and wife of Kenney; four brothers and one sister, James M., Abner N., Andrew J., Ivan, all of Kenney, and Mrs. Samuel CRAIG, of Clinton.  Funeral will be held tomorrow at the home.  Burial at cemetery near Lincoln.

Mrs. Daniel KEMP 

March 28, 1902
Clinton Register

DEATH OF MRS. KEMP.

Mrs. Alice KEMP died Wednesday evening at her home in Texas township, aged 43 years.   She was a daughter of the late Thos. D. HALL, of Barnett township and was married to Daniel KEMP over 20 years ago.  They had lived in Barnett township ever since their marriage until the first of this month when they moved to the Kemp homestead near Rowell.  Wednesday night of last week Mrs. Kemp was taken seriously sick, and the disease was pronounced appendicitis.  Beside the husband, four children survive her, the eldest being Mrs. Elva DEAN, of Bourne, Ky., also her mother, one sister and two brothers.  Funeral services were held at the home at 10 o'clock today, conducted by Rev. Canady.  Interment in Woodlawn cemetery.

Mrs. James KEMP 

May 25, 1888
Clinton Register

Sudden Death in Texas Township.

The wife of James KEMP died very suddenly Saturday night. About 11 o'clock she began to have a feeling of suffocation, and informed her husband that she believed she was going to die. Mr. Kemp's hired man started for a physician at once, but before the doctor arrived, about midnight, Mrs. KEMP died, no one being present at the time except her mother, husband and children. There seems to be a diversity of opinion as to the cause of her death, one physician claims it was heart trouble, and another the bursting of a blood vessel. The death is one of the saddest ever known in this vicinity, and cast a gloom of sorrow over the entire neighborhood. The funeral took place on Sunday afternoon, an early burial being necessary. The interment was at the cemetery three miles northeast of Kenney. Those who attended the funeral can never forget the scene. An aged mother weeping for her daughter, taken almost without warning. A husband in profound sorrow for his companion, so lately in usual good health, and the three small children that were without a mother, a child's best friend, brought tears to the stoutest hearts and a deep solemnity over the faces of the many friends present. Deceased was about 40 years old.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
KEMP, JAMES M.   OWENS, PHIDELIA E.    01/28/1875   DE WITT

Note: She and her husband are buried in the Baptist Cemetery.

Matthew KEMP 

November 7, 1902
Clinton Register

DEATH OF MATTHEW KEMP.

Matthew KEMP died Saturday at his home in the east part of the city, aged 32, of hemorrhage of the bowels.  He was taken sick with typhoid fever several weeks ago.  He moved here from Wapella township about six years ago, and had been working at the Central shops.  His wife and a child survive him.  Funeral services were held in Wapella, conducted by Revs. Canady, of Clinton, and Davidson, of Wapella. Burial at Long Point cemetery.

Mrs. John KENNEY 

October 12, 1906
Clinton Register

DEATH OF FORMER KENNEY LADY.
She and Her Husband Once Owned the Land on Which the Town Has Been Built.

Mrs. Susan KENNEY died Oct. 4 in Creston, Iowa, at the home of her daughter, aged nearly 70. Her maiden name was Susan BOWLES and she was born in DeWitt County in April, 1837. She was married to John KENNEY March 19, 1857. They located on a farm which has become a part of Kenney; they lived there when the town was laid out, and the town was given their name. Mr. Kenney died many years ago. Of their eight children, five are living, as follows: Mrs. J. A. MEADOWS, Creston, Iowa; Mrs. James KEMP, Kenney; Mrs. H. A. MORRIS, Hebron, Neb.; James KENNEY, Mt. Ayers, Iowa; Joseph, of Kenney. She had long been a member of the Christian church. Funeral was held Sunday afternoon in Kenney conducted by Rev. T. t. HOLTON, of Bloomington. Burial was in Pleasant Valley Cemetery west of Kenney.

Emmett KENT 

April 4, 1890
Clinton Public

Thirty-one years ago last Monday (March 31, 1859) at four o'clock in the afternoon, Emmett KENT and his wife were united in marriage in the city of Chicago. On the anniversary day, and one hour later in the afternoon, death entered the household for the first time and broke the family circle by removing the beloved husband and father. Emmett Kent was born in Dorset, Vermont, on the 8th of November, 1835, so that at the time of his death he was in his fifty-fifth year. His parents moved from Vermont to Chicago early in the forties and in that city he was reared and educated. Through his own energies he fitted himself for a business life by taking a course in a commercial college, and when he was yet but a lad he and Richard R. CRANG served as clerks in the same mercantile house in Chicago. Soon after arriving at his majority he was promoted to a responsible position by a large lumber firm in Chicago, and when the firm wanted a man to take charge of their business in Clinton they selected Emmett Kent. On the last day of March, 1859, he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth CLAPPERTON, and within a few days afterward he and his young wife came to Clinton. When he arrived here he rented a house on East Main street, which stood on the lot now owned by Mr. JONES, of the Illinois Central shops, and here they began house-keeping in a humble way. His entire wealth in cash was $100, and while managing the lumber business for the firm who sent him here he invested his $100 in corn. This was his first venture in the grain business. In the course of time he bought out the firm he was working for, and for about twenty-five years he was one of the most successful grain and lumber men in Central Illinois. The almost daily advance in the price of grain during the war would have made him a wealthy man, but Emmett Kent had one of those generous natures that never lets its possessor become rich in money, but the use of his means in benefactions to those less fortunate enriched his soul. In his case it might be truly said that, "it is more blessed to give than to receive."

In 1864 he bought the four acres on Jackson avenue and built a home of his own, and in 1875 he moved the old house back and built a handsome addition to it. This is the property now owned by Mr. W. R. CARLE and occupied by Mr. A. J. LATIMER. In this home his children were born and raised, and there his family lived till about one year ago, when he disposed of it.

Less than half a dozen who were prominent in business affairs when Mr. Kent came to Clinton in 1859 are now residents here. A large majority of them rest in Woodlawn Cemetery, while here and there in other cities and States may now and then be found one of the number. A generation of active men and women of the Clinton of those days have passed away, and new faces and new interests have taken their places. Were we to call the roll of the dead even for the last twenty years what a small army would rise up in the memories of the readers of THE PUBLIC. None occupied a more prominent place in the history of Clinton than did Emmett Kent; for the death of none were more words of sympathy expressed. He did well his part, whether in his office, as a member of the city council, or, the most important in his sight, in the councils of his church. Emmett Kent was a thorough Christian, and his religion was part of his every day life. It was not reserved for the Sabbath, but he took into his business and into his dealings with his fellow-man. No kindlier soul ever walked the streets of Clinton, and his sympathetic heart and his pocket-book were ever open to the lightening of others’ burdens. He gave freely of the bounty that had been showered upon him in his business career.

Five years ago the new Presbyterian Church was built. The building committee was Emmett KENT, William BISHOP, S. F. LEWIS, Daniel CRANG, and A. H. MAGILL. All five were then active in the business affairs of life; today they are all sleeping in Woodlawn Cemetery. In the building of the church, Mr. Kent was one of the most liberal givers. Besides devoting a large portion of his time, with the members of the committee, he gave $2000 to the building fund, and that year his contribution to his church was not less than $2500 for all purposes. When the Methodist Church was built he was a liberal contributor, and in 1874 when Dr. ADAMS undertook the task of raising the $14,000 that was still remaining due on the church he found in Mr. Kent a warm friend for a good-sized check. At one time Mr. Kent was in independent circumstances, but the constant drain for benevolent purposes seriously impaired his bank account. In his own person he practiced the most rigid economy, that he might have the more to give away. While his life was a blessing to others, in death he leaves his family a name that will be ever honored in Clinton.

For the past four or five years Mr. Kent failed in health. The active man of business had to succumb to bodily ailments, yet even down to the last few weeks he directed the management of his affairs. For a month or more he was conscious that his end was approaching. He suffered much from bodily pain, but his mind was clear and active till within a few hours of his death. At five o'clock last Monday afternoon death relieved him from his bodily sufferings. The first knowledge that Clinton had of his death was the tolling of the bells of the Presbyterian church and public school. The funeral services were held in the Presbyterian Church on Wednesday afternoon, at four o'clock, and the large church could not contain all who desired to pay the last tribute of respect to one who had lived such an active and useful life in the city. The floral offerings of the sympathetic friends were many and of handsome designs. With these flowers the platform and desk of the church were decorated during the funeral ceremony. The Rev. W. A. HUNTER conducted the services and preached an excellent and appropriate sermon, but at the request of the family no mention was made of Mr. Kent at any time during the services. What a theme the life of Emmett Kent would have furnished the pastor, but the family had no desire for any public parade of the virtues of their beloved dead. Between five and six o'clock, as the sun was sinking down in the west, the remains of Emmett Kent were laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery. No death in Clinton has caused more sorrow, and no funeral procession had more sympathetic mourners. “When a good man dies the people mourn.”

Mr. Kent leaves a wife and five children. His oldest son Fred has been managing the business for the past eighteen months. Two of his daughters are married, and the oldest daughter, is a teacher in our public schools, and the youngest child, Paul, lives with their mother. Mr. Kent had a paid-up policy for $2000 which was made for Mrs. Kent’s benefit. The home is in her name, and she will also have a share of the profits from the grain and lumber business, which will be continued by her son Fred.

Greeley KEOUGH 

July 22, 1881
Clinton Register

Killed by a train.

(See news article)

Mrs. James KEOUGH 

July 22, 1881
Clinton Register

(See news article)

Mervin A. KEPHART 

May __, 1928
(Paper unknown)

For several months Mervin A. KEPHART had been in declining health, not from any special disease, but from old age.  He peacefully departed this life on his farm northwest of Waynesville, Wednesday, May 23, about one o'clock.  He had partaken of a hearty dinner, and died suddenly while walking in the yard near his own front gate.  Mr. Kephart and his amiable wife had resided on this farm for many years.

Mervin A. Kephart was born near Bethlehem, Ky., August 29th, 1846, hence in a few months would have been 82 years old.  When the great war of the Rebellion broke out he was too young to enlist, but later succeeded in enlisting on the Union side on the 18th anniversary of his birth, August 29th, 1864, in Col. H. M. Buckley’s company G., of the fifty-fourth mounted infantry.  He was with Gen. Stoneman and Burbridge on their raids through Tennessee and Virginia and was mustered out September 1st, 1865.

When a young man he came to Illinois in the spring of 1868 and became a farmer.  He married Miss Letitia HAMMITT at Waynesville, November 23rd, 1871.  To this union four children were born, all of whom grew to maturity.  One son, Perry M. KEPHART, accidentally lost his life August 11th, 1912, by being electrocuted while working on a highline of the Illinois Traction Company near Springfield.

The wife and three other children survive and are Mrs. Orla DAVIS, of near Bloomington, and Thomas E. and Frank, both farmers at Waynesville.  There are also eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren surviving.

Mr. Kephart was a lifelong Democrat and cast his first vote for president for Horatio Seymour.  He was a member of Frank Sampson Post No. 298, G.A.R., at Waynesville.  Although not a church member, he was religiously inclined and was a good moral man and fine neighbor.

Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Methodist church in Waynesville, Rev. B. D. Mallinson officiating.  Interment was in Evergreen cemetery at Waynesville.

Note: From the Illinois Statewide Death Index, 1916-1950: Mervin A. Kephart died May 23, 1928, in Waynesville Township, De Witt County.

Mrs. Thomas KEPHART 

July 18, 1913
Clinton Register

Funeral services of Mrs. Thos. KEPHART, who died Tuesday, July 8, were held Thursday, July 10th, in the Waynesville M. E. church at 2:30 p.m., conducted by Rev. G. J. Janssen.  Interment was in Evergreen cemetery.  The pallbearers were L. B. King, Fred Dix, Joseph Shaffer, Samuel Shaffer, Geo. Finfrock and E. A. Gelsthorpe.

Eva Belle ELMES was born in Waynesville, April 17, 1884, and at the time of her death was aged 29 years, 3 months and 1 day.  On Jan. 23, 1903, she was married to Thos. E. KEPHART, of that place, who with one child, Edna Faye, three years old, survives.  She also leaves her father, E. J. ELMES; one brother, Oscar ELMES, of Clinton; and four sisters, Mrs. Alto MATTHEWS, of Beason; Mrs. Jennie HYLAND, of Decatur; and Mrs. Maud VANNESS and Faye, of McLean, all of whom were present at the funeral.

Note: If her age is correct, she must have been born on April 7th, not the 17th.

Mrs. Solomon KETTERMAN 

May 28, 1886
Clinton Register

A very sudden death occurred at E. HELMICK’s last week.  Mrs. Ann KETTERMAN, 75 years old, fell dead from her chair.  She was in apparent good health and had just finished eating a hearty dinner.  Grandma Ketterman was one of the early pioneers of this country.   She was a sister to Elihu Helmick.  Her husband died in Missouri several years ago, where her children all reside, except Mrs. John NICHOLS, who resides in Champaign Co., Ills., where she had been living for some time and she was to start to Missouri in a day or so to live with her children there.  Rev. Hooper, of Farmer City, preached the sermon at the house of E. Helmick, where she died, after which she was lain to rest in the Johnson grave yard.  Mrs. Nichols was the only one of her children that could be present, as it was impossible to delay the burial sufficient time for her other children to arrive from Missouri.

Note: Virginia Marriages, 1740-1850:
Groom Name: Solomon Ketterman
Bride Name: Ann Helmick
Marriage Date: 17 Jul 1830
County: Pendleton
State: Virginia

Charles W. KIMLER 

February 16, 1900
Clinton Register

BY THEIR OWN HANDS.
Two More Take Their Lives, One With a Shotgun, the Other With a Rope.

Tuesday night C. W. KIMLER, a farmer, living a few miles east of Weldon left his home and his absence was not known to the family until about 5 o'clock next morning.  A search was made for him at once, but he was not found until about 9 o'clock, when some men who were chopping wood found his body hanging from a tree not far from his home.

He had been in poor health several years, caused from wounds received during the civil war, and it was thought this was the cause of him taking his life.  He was about 60 years old and leaves a wife, son and four daughters, the oldest of whom, Miss Nettie, was to have been married the day her father’s body was found, to Harve CHURCHILL.

Note: The other person who died was Frank Thorpe.

Mrs. Jefferson E. KIMLER 

May 9, 1913
Clinton Register

Mrs. Elizabeth KIMLER died at the home of her daughter in Farmer City last Friday at the age of 84 years.  Mrs. Kimler was one of the old residents of this county.  She was the mother of Mrs. A. T. WILLERTON and Mrs. Martha DeVORE, of Farmer City.  The funeral was held last Sunday.

Note: Her maiden name was Pearce.

Susan KINCAID 

March 7, 1890
Clinton Public

Susan KINCAID, a well known character in Clinton for the past thirty years or more, was buried yesterday forenoon, she having died the day before. Poor Susan's life was a stormy one, without one gleam of sunshine. She was born in Scott county, Illinois, more than sixty years ago. At the death of her father, who was a well-to-do farmer, her brothers turned her out to shift for herself and gave her none of the estate. From her childhood she was full of vagaries, being what is called a simpleton. Susan came to Bloomington and lived there for a time and about thirty years ago made her home in Clinton. Everybody knew Susan and her peculiarities, but she was fortunate in having the sympathy and care of a few families who tried to make the rough journey of life as smooth as possible for her. She owned a house and lot which she left by will to one of her brothers. In her last hours her protectors for years ministered to her and smoothed her path to the unknown world. What a chapter her life history would make. The Angel of Death was her best friend.

George KING 

March 17, 1913, Monday
Daily Pantagraph
Bloomington, Illinois

GEORGE KING DIES.
Aged Resident of Waynesville Succumbs to Pneumonia Friday.

Waynesville, March 16.—(Special)—George KING, an aged resident of this place passed away at his home at 9 o'clock Friday night.  He had been ill several weeks with pneumonia.  Mr. King was born in Dayton, Ohio, Aug. 23, 1835, and moved to this place in 1852.  He was married to Mary Ann BROCK July 27, 1857, in Clinton.  He was a veteran of the civil war and was a member of Company K, Twenty-sixth regiment.  Mr. and Mrs. King were the parents of eight children, one dying in infancy.  The survivors are Leonard, Mack and Mrs. Mary MONTGOMERY, of this place; Oscar, of Odessa, Canada; Mrs. Flora BABBOTT, Seattle, Wash.; and Mrs. Louella McDONALD, of Chicago.  The wife also survives.  There are also three brothers, John KING, of Chicago; William, of Quincy; and David KING, of California; and eight grandchildren.  The funeral services were held at the family home this afternoon at 2:30, conducted by Rev. G. J. Janssen.  The interment was in Evergreen cemetery.

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March 17, 1913, Monday
Bloomington Daily Bulletin
Bloomington, Illinois

Geo. W. KING, an aged resident of this place passed away at his late home here about 9 o'clock Friday evening, having been ill for the past three weeks with general debilities.  Deceased was born at Dayton, O., Aug. 23, 1835, and came to this place in 1852 and has been a continuous resident here since.  He was married to Miss Mary Anne BROCK, at Clinton, Ill., July 27, 1857.  There were seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. King, six of whom, with the wife, are still living.  They are: Mrs. Louella McDONALD, of Chicago; Oscar KING, of Odessa, Canada; Mrs. Mary MONTGOMERY, Leonard and Mack KING, all of this city, also Mrs. Flora BABBOTT, of Seattle, Wash.  Mr. King was a member of Co. K, 26th infantry and served about eighteen months during the civil war.  While in the army he suffered a gunshot wound which caused the amputation of one arm.  He was of a jovial disposition and had a host of friends.  Besides other relatives there remain three brothers, Wm. KING, of Quincy; John KING, of Chicago; and David KING, of California; also eight grandchildren.  The funeral services were held at the home Sunday afternoon at 2:30, conducted by Rev. G. J. Janssen.  Interment was in Evergreen cemetery.

Mrs. George KING 

November __, 1928
(Paper unknown)

Mrs. Mary KING died Tuesday, November 20th, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Luella WELD, in Chicago.

Mary Ann BROCK, daughter of Elias and Mary BROCK, was born in McLean County, Ill., April 7, 1838 and died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Luella Weld, in Chicago, November 20th, 1928, at the age of 90 years, 7 months and 13 days.

She was married to George King, July 27th, 1857.  To this union were born eight children, three of whom proceeded her in death.  Those surviving are Mary E. Montgomery, Waynesville; Mrs. Luella Weld, Oscar and Leonard, of Chicago; and Mrs. Florence Babbitt, of Washington.  She is also survived by ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, one nephew, C. E. Brock, of Wapella, a niece, Mrs. William George, of Heyworth, one cousin, Daniel Ellington, of Waynesville, and a host of relatives and friends.

Grandma King has lived in Waynesville and vicinity all her life, an ardent member of the Waynesville Christian church, her life and devotion to its interests always remarkable.

The funeral was held Thursday afternoon at the Christian church in charge of Rev. H. S. Mavity.  Appropriate hymns were sung by a quartet composed of Mrs. Ethel Blomberg, Mrs. Lottie Dix, M. Connell and Joe Teal, with Mrs. Pearl Swan at the piano.  Pall bearers were Harry Ruble, R. H. Selby, Frank Rich, Arthur Strange, Sam Richards, and Junius Sampson.  Burial was in the Evergreen cemetery.

Mrs. Hannah E. KING

Published on page 2 of The Pantagraph (Bloomington, IL) on 21 March 1928

Mrs. Hannah E. King
(Special to The Daily Pantagraph)
CLINTON  March 21.—Services for Hannah Elizabeth King, who died at her home in Creek township Sunday night following a lingering illness, were held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock, the Rev. A. L. Cain officiating. Burial was in the Ross [sic, should be Rose] cemetery near Lane. Mrs. King was born in Macon county Feb. 1, 1865, and was twice married, the first time to George Hemp [sic] of Creek township. Two children were born to them, one of whom survive, William, with whom she had been residing. Her second marriage was to William King of Rossville, Ohio, who died in 1908.
Besides the son she is survived by three sisters: Mrs. Martha Newberry, Capella; Mrs. C. E. Moody, Clinton; Mrs. Leonard Morrow, Texas township; three brothers: C. L. Evans, H. H., and John, all of Clinton.

Submitted by Kathy Ikeda

Dr. Joel E. KING 

June 6, 1890
Clinton Public

In Fairfield, Iowa, on last Sunday evening, in the seventy-seventh year of his age, Dr. Joel E. KING was mustered out. Nearly fifty years ago Dr. King was a practicing physician in this county and lived near where Kenney is located. Later he moved to this city and was the owner of a large part of Lawndale. For years he was in the mercantile business with John P. MITCHELL, their store being an old frame building that stood on the lot where Mrs. Harrison's millinery store is now. When the war broke out, although Dr. King was then near fifty years old, he enlisted in Co. E, Twentieth Illinois Infantry, as a private soldier, but was detailed to hospital duty after the regiment went into service. The hardships of camp life were too severe for the old doctor so he resigned and came home. Two of his sons enlisted in the same company with him. After the war the family moved to Iowa. The old doctor expected to be at the regimental reunion of the Twentieth in Bloomington on next Friday, but he has answered his last roll call.

William KING 

January 8, 1915
Clinton Register

DEATH OF WAPELLA FARMER.
Life of William King Goes Out With the Dawning of The New Year.

Friday morning at 5:15 at his home two miles west of Wapella, Wm. KING, a prominent citizen of that neighborhood passed from life to the beyond. Death was caused by heart trouble superinduced by dropsy with which he had been a sufferer for some time. Mr. King was ill with the fatal trouble but one week.

Deceased had been a resident of the Wapella neighborhood for the past thirty years and had spent the greater part of his life in DeWitt county, having lived in the vicinity of Clinton for a number of years before moving to his last neighborhood. He was born in Ohio in 1842 and came to this county with his parents while he was yet a child. In 1862 he enlisted in the Union army and served with the 45th Ill. Vol. Inft. At the close of the war he took up farming which had since been his vocation. In 1880 he was married in Clinton to Miss Mary HICKMAN, one child being born to the couple, Mrs. Laura MIENEL, of Chicago. Besides the widow and daughter he is survived by two brothers, Jonathan of Nebraska and George of Kinrose, Mich. Funeral services were held from the Wapella Christian church Sunday morning. Burial in the Wapella cemetery.

Note: His wife's maiden name was Mary Trent.  Hickman was the name from her first marriage.

Submitted by Unknown

Mrs. William KING 

February 11, 1925
The News Gazette
Champaign, Illinois

Fisher, Feb. 10.—Mrs. Mary M. KING, 75, widow of William KING, died at 10 o'clock Monday morning at her home here.  Death was due to complications of diseases.  Mrs. King, formerly Miss Mary TRENT, was born in Maysville, Ky., Jan. 16, 1850, the daughter of Mr. And Mrs. Woodrow TRENT.  She married Silas HICKMAN in 1865 and to them were born three children, William, who died in 1914; Mrs. Frank HILL, of Fisher; and E. L. HICKMAN, of Havana.  She married William King in 1880.  Mr. King died in 1915.

Besides her children, Mrs. King leaves 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, and a brother, George L. TRENT, of Wapella.  Mrs. King moved from Wapella eight years ago to make her home in Fisher.  Funeral services will be from the home at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning, Rev. Burt Bradbury in charge of the services, and burial will be in Long Point funeral grove near Wapella.  Pallbearers will be grandsons of the deceased. Mrs. King was a member of the Long Point Christian church, near Wapella.

Note: The name Woodrow should be Woodson.

Submitted by Unknown

Mrs. William KING 

March 20, 1928
The Decatur Review
Decatur, Illinois

King Funeral.

Clinton, Mar. 20.—Funeral services for Hannah Elizabeth KING, who died at her home in Creek township Sunday night following a lingering illness, were held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. A. L. Cain officiating.  Burial was made in the Rose cemetery near Lane.  Deceased was born in Macon county, Feb. 1, 1865, and was twice married, the first time to George HEMP of Creek township.   Two children were born to them, one of whom survives, William, with whom she had been residing.  Her second marriage was to William KING, of Roseville, Ohio, who preceded her in death in 1908.

Aside from the son she is survived by three sisters, Mrs. Martha NEWBERRY, of Wapella; Mrs. C. E. MOODY, of Clinton; Mrs. Leonard MORROW, of Texas township; three brothers, S. L. EVANS, H. H., and John, all of Clinton.

Note: Her full name was Hannah Elizabeth (Evans) King.  The name of her first sister should be Mrs. Martin Newberry (maiden name Margaret Evans).  The first brother listed should be C. L. Evans (for Charles L.).

Submitted by Kathy Ikeda

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March 21, 1928
The Decatur Review
Decatur, Illinois

Funeral services for Mrs. Hannah Elizabeth KING, who died at 9:30 o'clock Sunday evening in her home in Creek township, were conducted at 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon by Rev. A. L. Cain.  Burial was in Rose cemetery.

Hannah Elizabeth EVANS was born in Macon county Feb. 1, 1865.  She was twice married, her first marriage being to George W. HEMP of Creek township.   Two children were born to this union, Lizzie, who died in infancy, and William, with whom she made her home.  Her second marriage was to William H. KING, of Roseville, O., who passed away in 1908.

She leaves the following brothers and sisters: C. L., John and H. H. EVANS, of Clinton; Mrs. Martin NEWBERRY, of Wapella; Mrs. C. E. MOODY, of Clinton; and Mrs. Leonard MORROW, of Texas township.

Submitted by Kathy Ikeda

Jane (CUNDIFF) KINGORE 

August 14, 1911
Clinton Register

Death of Mrs. Richard Kingore.
Was a Resident of Clinton Over Half Century Ago-
Two of Her Sisters Still Living in This City.

The following is from a Pontiac [Illinois] paper of last week.

Mrs. Richard KINGORE died Monday afternoon, August 7, 1911 at St, James Hospital in Pontiac, IL., death due to cancer of the stomach. The funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon, August 9th., at 2 p.m. at the family residence in Pontiac. Rev. J. H. RYAN, pastor of the First Methodist church, officiating. Interment will be in South Side Cemetery, Pontiac.

Jane CUNDIFF was born near Fort Finley, Hancock County, Ohio, February 21, 1841. She remained in that state until ten years of age, when in 1851 her parents, Thornton and Elano CUNDIFF, removed to Illinois, locating near Clinton on a farm. There Miss CUNDIFF grew to young womanhood, obtaining her education from the common schools of that period.

On October 13, 1864 she was united in marriage to Richard KINGORE and the year following removed with him to this city, which has since been her home. A year after moving to this city, they erected their home at the corner of South Main street and West Henry street, which has since been her home.

Mrs. KINGORE was a woman greatly beloved by all who knew her, and especially her neighbors, being a woman devoted to her home and her family. She was a woman of a kind and loving nature and an exemplary Christian. She united with the Methodist Episcopal church of this city years ago and remained true to the teachings of her church throughout her life.

She leaves by her death, Frank, of this city; Mrs. Loula HILL, of Springfield; and Fred, of Chicago; a son Charles having died in infancy. Besides these she leaves four sisters: Mrs. Alcinda CACKLEY, of Clinton; Mrs. Sarah NORTH, of Clinton; Mrs. Mary KIRK, of Kankakee; and Mrs. Amanda RAINIER, of Auburn, Indiana.

Mr. KINGORE died on January 10, 1911, since which time Mrs. KINGORE's wish that she might join him had often been expressed. She was rational up to the last and recognized all the members of her family who were with her during her last hours.

Mrs. Julia KIOUS 

April 24, 1891
Clinton Public

On Monday of last week Mrs. Julia KIOUS, aged seventy years, died in this city. Age and hard work had enfeebled the old lady so that she could not withstand disease. She was the mother of eight children, five of whom survive her. Two of her daughters live in this city—Mrs. John SMITH and Miss Alice KIOUS. The family came to Clinton thirteen years ago from Christian county. Mrs. Kious was a member of the Methodist Church.

Alison M. KIRBY 

January 10, 1935
Paper Unknown

Alison M. KIRBY, age 77, a native of Tunbridge township died Thursday, Jan. 10, 1935 at his home in Decatur. He had been in failing health for 2 years. Mr. Kirby was born on a farm 2 miles west of Kenney and grew to manhood there. He was twice married, his first wife being Alice ELLIS. They resided at Wapella for several years where Mr. Kirby was engaged in the coal business. From Wapella Mr. and Mrs. Kirby moved to Chicago where he was employed as a coal salesman. Mrs. Kirby died there in 1908. After her death Mr. Kirby left Chicago and engaged in a similar business in Decatur. In Decatur he met and married Mrs. Anna SANFORD Jan. 21, 1912. They have continued to make Decatur their home ever since.

Mr. Kirby is survived by his wife and stepchildren, Mrs. James HARRISON of Chicago, Mrs. Fren KEARNE of Mt. Vernon, NY, Mrs. Leona ROACH of El Paso, Texas, Melain ELLIS of Montana, Mrs. Stella GANDY of Decatur, and Harold SANFORD of Fort Dodge, Iowa.

Funeral Services were conducted from Riverside M. E. Church in Decatur at 2 p.m. Sunday afternoon. Burial was in Pleasant Valley Cemetery near Kenney.

Alison KIRBY, born 1858, was the son of James A. KIRBY and Clara (TROWBRIDGE) KIRBY.

Submitted by Earliene Kaelin

James A. KIRBY 

October 15, 1909
Clinton Register

AND OLD RESIDENT DIES.

James A. KIRBY died suddenly at his home near Kenney yesterday morning about 8 o'clock, aged 87, being sick less than two hours. He was born in Ohio and came to Illinois in 1853, locating east of Kenney, and later moved to Tunbridge, where there was a small store, and was appointed postmaster, being the first postmaster in Tunbridge township, and the mail was taken from there by carrier on horseback. About three years later he moved west of Kenney, where he bought land. After the death of his wife, he went to live with his son, Frank, near Kenney. The other children who survive him are Mrs. WATSON, of Rolla, Mo.; A. M. KIRBY, of Chicago; and Mrs. CANTRELL. Politically he had always been a Democrat and had held the most important offices of the township, and served the people faithfully. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at the church in Kenney. Burial in the cemetery west of Kenney.

Mrs. Robert P. KIRBY 

January 11, 1889
Clinton Register

Mrs. Phoebe KIRBY died at her home near Hallsville last Friday, at the advanced age of 75 years. Grandma Kirby, as she was commonly called, was born Jan. 10, 1814. She was the mother of ten children, eight of whom survive her and were in attendance at the funeral with but one exception. She was a sister to Samuel Graham of Waynesville. She leaves a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn her loss. The funeral was conducted by Elder Henry, who preached a very touching sermon from Job xiv:14, "If a man dies shall he live again." The remains were laid to rest in McClimons cemetery.

Note: Phoebe was married to Robert Phares Kirby on January 24, 1833, in Warren County, Ohio.

William KIRBY 

Friday, September 8, 1899
Clinton Register

Wm. KIRBY, the man who cut his throat at his home in Farmer City three weeks ago, died Saturday. He was about 60 years old. His wife and two children survive him.

(See news article)

Submitted by Sheryl Byrd

William G. KIRBY 

January 8, 1897
Clinton Register

ANOTHER GOOD MAN CALLED.
William G. Kirby Dies Suddenly at His Home Southwest of Clinton.

Perhaps the news of no death recently has caused more regret among the friends of the deceased than that of W. G. KIRBY, who died suddenly Wednesday evening at 6:30 at his home five miles southwest of Clinton. He was one of the most jovial men ever seen on our streets, and when it was known he had crossed the silent river the heart of every friend was saddened.

He had been ailing about two weeks with stomach trouble, but had not been confined to his bed. Several days ago he drove to Lincoln alone to consult a physician, who is a relative, and was given medicine that seemed to benefit him. He had been about his home as usual, looking after his stock, but got no better and seemingly no worse. Wednesday afternoon some of his neighbors called on him and his voice seemed as strong as usual. About 6 o'clock he took worse suddenly, and H. C. Griffin, who lives near, and others were hastily sent for. A messenger was sent for a doctor, but in half an hour he was beyond human aid. Death came to him peacefully and he seemed as one who had "wrapped the drapery of his couch about him and laid down to pleasant dreams." When the angel of death was hovering over him, and he seemed to realize that all would soon be over, he said: "I am not afraid to die; I have wronged no one and have no enemies." These were his last words.

William G. Kirby was born in Ohio, and his parents came to Illinois when he was young. In 1872 he was joined in marriage with Mrs. Mary BRUNER who survives him and whose maiden name was SCOTT. In 1873 he located on the land where he has since lived. By industry and economy he had added to his farm of a few acres at first until he owned over 200 acres. He was the father of five children, all yet at home, the oldest being 22 years old. Their names are Irvin, Arva, Erma, Eva and Verna. Four brothers survive him, none of whom live in Illinois. James lives in Belle Plaine, Kan.; Benjamin, Robert and Elizabeth, in Oklahoma; and A. P. KIRBY, in Tennessee. He was 63 years old, and one of the best known men in the western part of the county. He was a good man, a useful citizen and a kind husband and parent. Politically he was a Democrat, and felt much interest for the success of his party.

Funeral services were held in the Christian church in this city today at 12:30, conducted by Rev. L. B. Pickerill. Interment was in Woodlawn cemetery.

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January 15, 1897
Clinton Register

HE IS AT REST.
Brief Biography of the Life of Wm. G. Kirby Who Died Jan. 6.

Last week a full account of the life of W. G. KIRBY could not be given. A friend has furnished the following:

Wm. Graham Kirby was born in Warren county, Ohio, Oct. 12, 1833, and live nearly 64 years. He was the oldest son of a family of ten children, two of whom, Mrs. John I. BARNETT and Mrs. Henry EADS, live in this county. The latter being the youngest of the family. Benjamin and James live in Kansas; Elizabeth and Robert in Oklahoma; and A. P. KIRBY, in Tennessee; Sarah and John D. are deceased. In 1848 he with his parents came to Illinois. At the age of 22 he was joined in marriage to Miss Mary ELLIS, and with less than two years of wedded life, the family circle was broken and the young husband was left to walk life’s pathway alone. He lived with his widowed mother several years, and in 1873 was again joined in marriage to Mrs. Mary BRUNER. He purchased the farm which he has improved and lived upon since that time. He leaves a wife and five children all yet at home, the oldest being 22 years old. Their names are Irvin, Arva, Erma, Eva and Verna.

Of this dear man, this tender father, this loving husband and faithful friend we have no deeds of renown to record. A peculiar frankness of disposition and honesty of purpose marked his life at an early age which has followed him throughout life and is at once beautiful and well worthy of imitation. He was of an unusually happy disposition and his intensely social qualities seemed to make all around him equally happy. As a neighbor he was revered and respected by all who knew him as a man of morality. He was a model of honesty and integrity a marvel. Few men lead such lives and are so fortunate as to have no enemies. But the life of this good man has been one of such uniform consistency and of such an unselfish nature. When the angel of death was hovering over him and he seemed to realize that all would soon be over he said: "I am not afraid to die; I have wronged no one; and have no enemies." These were his last words. Our community keenly feels the loss of one so upright and one so universally respected, and the afflicted family have the heartfelt sympathy of all.

KIRK (infant) 

November 29, 1877
Clinton Public

Died.—Infant daughter of O. L. KIRK and Lucretia KIRK, November 19, 1877.

Orange L. KIRK 

October 15, 1897, Friday
Clinton Public

O. L. KIRK DEAD.
An Old and Respected Citizen of Clinton Passes Away.

After an illness of nearly one year, O. L. KIRK, one of the oldest residents of Clinton, died at his home on East Washington street at 9:50 o'clock Monday evening, aged 67 years and 11 months, the cause of his death being heart disease, with which he had been troubled for the past two or three years.  In February last, he had a severe attack from which he never fully recovered and had since been an invalid.  During the summer he recovered sufficiently to ride out at times.  On October 3d he was taken worse, was compelled to take his bed, and for the past two or three days had been unconscious.  During his last few days he suffered considerable pain and his death was hourly expected.  His large family of children were nearly all present.

Orange Lemon Kirk was born near Xenia, O., on November 11, 1829, and was the son of a farmer.  He resided on the farm with his parents until he became a young man, when he went to Xenia and prepared himself for the occupation which he followed through life.  After fitting himself as a brick mason, he moved to Bellefontaine, O., where he engaged in contracting and building.  In the year 1851, he was united in marriage in that city to Miss Sarah J. ROBINSON.  Two children blessed this union—Samuel and James M.  His wife was a good helpmeet and a Christian mother, but her life of usefulness was cut short and she died in 1855.  A short time after this, he moved to Illinois and settled in Clinton, where he again engaged in contracting and building, forming a partnership with A. H. C. BARBER, with whom he was associated until about 1871.

Shortly after the dissolution with Mr. Barber, Mr. Kirk formed a partnership with James W. BELL and engaged in the manufacture of brick.  About 1880 he again dissolved partnership and with his son James built several of our finest business houses.  Mr. Kirk was one of the foremost constructors of Clinton and was practically identified with its growth from a village with a few frame buildings to a beautiful city, he having built the Magill house, Union block, Masonic hall and several other buildings.  By strict attention to business and fair treatment of his fellowmen he gained a reputation for honesty that was often recognized in municipal affairs.  For 12 years he served as councilman from the First ward on the anti–license ticket and was a member of that body when Clinton was incorporated.  In politics the deceased was a Republican, and while offered positions of honor in the gift of the party, he always refused.  Since boyhood he had been a member of the Methodist church and since his residence in Clinton had been a consistent worker in that society, giving liberally of his means toward the building of the church.

Mr. Kirk was a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, with which he was connected for over forty years.  For a number of years he occupied the position of Tyler of the Masonic bodies of this city.

On February 18, 1857, shortly after Mr. Kirk removed to this city, he was united in marriage to Miss Lucretia J. MORLAN.  A large family of children were born to them, four of whom are dead.  The surviving children are: Mrs. Annie Dale, Clinton; Frank Kirk, St. Louis; Mrs. Lou Hatfield, Clinton; Albert L. Kirk, Vandalia; Leon Kirk, Clinton; George, William and Harry, who reside at home.

The funeral of the late O. L. Kirk was held from the M. E. church at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.  DeWitt lodge No. 84, A. F. and A. M., headed by Capt. Gorman’s band, conducted the remains from the residence to the church, where Rev. J. B. Horney delivered an eloquent and touching discourse.  After the sermon, the remains were again taken charge of by the Masons and the large number of citizens that followed the funeral cortege to Woodlawn cemetery bore silent testimony to the high esteem in which the deceased was held by the entire community, both in social and business life.  The remains were laid to rest with the beautiful and solemn ceremony of the Masonic fraternity.

Mrs. Orange L. KIRK 

July 26, 1916, Wednesday
Clinton Daily Public

MRS. O. L. KIRK, PIONEER WOMAN, DIES.
Death Tuesday Night Was Unexpected Despite Long Illness—
Children All Here—
Funeral Thursday.

Mrs. O. L. KIRK, a pioneer resident of DeWitt county passed away at her home, 603 East Washington street, Tuesday evening at 11 o'clock, after an extended and hopeless illness.  Her death was sudden, and although her sons were in the city, only her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Harry Kirk, was with her when the end came.

Miss Lucretia G. MORLAN was born April 17, 1840, in Madison county, O.  Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. John G. MORLAN.  In 1852 she moved with her parents to DeWitt county by wagon and located with them on the lot now occupied by the Taylor home, 813 East Main street, in the house which has since been moved to the first lot west of the Douglas school on East Washington street and is still standing.  She united with the Methodist church early in her life and was always an earnest worker as long as her strength permitted.  Coming to Illinois she taught one term of school.  She was married to O. L. KIRK, Oct. 18, 1857, in Clinton.  Mr. Kirk was a contractor in brick masonry in this community.  In the year 1860, he built the house in which Mrs. Kirk died.

Mother of Twelve Children.

To this union were born twelve children, nine of whom are living.  They are James M. KIRK, of Clinton; Frank KIRK, of St. Louis; Mrs. James M. DALE, of Clinton; Mrs. A. M. HATFIELD, of Clinton; Albert L. KIRK, of Chicago; George KIRK, of Chicago; Leon KIRK, of Chicago; William KIRK, of Chicago, and Harry KIRK, of Clinton.  She is also survived by one brother, J. A. MORLAN, of Clinton.  Her husband, O. L. Kirk, died Oct. 11, 1897.

Mrs. Kirk was a charter member of the local chapter of the Eastern Star and always held the position of chaplain throughout her life.  She was also a member of the White Shrine.

In the death of Mrs. Kirk, the home has lost a kind and loving mother and the community a most estimable helper in the time of sickness and sorrow.  During her entire life, as she was caring for her own large family, she did not forget those who were sick or in sorrow.  There was not a home too humble or great that she would not enter it to minister unto the inmates.  Thus, all through her life, up until the last year, she went about doing good, until it can be said that there is hardly a home in her community where she has not acted the part of the “Good Samaritan.”  It might be said of her, as of one of old, “She hath done what she could.”

During Mrs. Kirk’s long illness she was always bright and cheerful and was never heard to complain.

Funeral Thursday.

Friends may view the remains at the family home Thursday afternoon from 1 to 3 o'clock.  At 4 o'clock the funeral services will be conducted at the M. E. church.  Interment will be made in Woodlawn cemetery.

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July 27, 1916, Thursday
Clinton Daily Public

FRIENDS CROWD CHURCH FOR FUNERAL OF MRS. KIRK
Rev. J. B. Horney, Who Officiated at Husband’s Funeral 19 Years Ago Gives Eulogy.

The funeral of the late Mrs. O. L. KIRK, who passed away at her home, 603 East Washington street Tuesday night was held at the M. E. church this afternoon at 4 o'clock.  Rev. J. B. Horney, of Bloomington, who officiated at the funeral of her husband, the late O. L. KIRK, in October 1897, had charge of the services this afternoon.

The church was crowded with friends and relatives of Mrs. Kirk, one of Clinton’s most highly respected and best loved women, who called to pay their last tribute.  The Order of Eastern Star, of which Mrs. Kirk was a charter member, attended in a body.  The pall bearers were Herman Metz, D. C. Dillingham, Grant Cardiff, Joseph Johnson, Charles Zanies and Emil Thiebault.   Burial was made in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Samuel KIRK 

April 22, 1910
Clinton Register

Death of Samuel Kirk.

Word was received here today that Samuel KIRK died Thursday at his home in St. Louis. A telegram was received here Thursday by his brother James KIRK, stating that he had fallen down stairs and was so seriously injured that it was feared he could not recover. Mr. and Mrs. James Kirk left immediately for St. Louis. While the full particulars of his death have not been received here, it is thought the direct cause of his death was paralysis. He had previously suffered two attacks of paralysis, the first one being about two years ago, since which time he had not been in good health.

Samuel Kirk was born in Bellefountain [Bellefontaine], Ohio, in 1852, being the oldest son of O. L. and Sarah KIRK. While a young child the family moved to Illinois and settled at Clinton. December 22, 1875, Samuel Kirk was united in marriage to Miss Bertha RAZEY, and to the union were born five children, three of whom survive, Mrs. Minnie RASMUSSEN, Mrs. Bertie IRVIN and Oscar Leonard KIRK, all residing in St. Louis. He also leaves surviving, his wife, one brother James Kirk of this city, and six half brothers and two half sisters. They are, Allie KIRK, George KIRK and Will KIRK residing in Chicago, Harry KIRK of Arkansas, Frank KIRK of St. Louis, Leon KIRK, Mrs. A. M. HATFIELD and Mrs. Jane DALE of Clinton.

Deceased was a contractor and builder in St. Louis where he had resided for the past twenty-two years. The remains will be brought to Clinton Saturday afternoon, and funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon. The services will be in charge of DeWitt Lodge No. 84 A. F. & A. M., of which deceased was a member.

Dr. Thaddeus KIRK 

January 10, 1890
Clinton Public

At his home in St. James, Minn., Dr. Thaddeus KIRK departed this life on Saturday, January 4, in the thirty-third year of his age. On last Friday his parents received a telegram from St. James announcing the sickness of their boy and his precarious condition, and Mr. Kirk would have started at once had he been able to leave his sick bed. It was decided to wait for another dispatch and if the news was not more favorable his mother and one of his brothers would leave on the morning train. Early the next morning came the expected telegram, but it brought the sad news that Thaddeus was dead. That night two of his brothers left for Minnesota and on Wednesday they returned with their precious dead.

Dr. Thaddeus Kirk was born in Clinton on the 18th of November, 1857. From childhood he was industrious and assisted his father in the brick making and building business, and when he was but fifteen years of age he almost did a man's work when his father had the contract for building the Magill House and Union Block. In his younger days he was crippled by disease in one of his limbs, and as he grew to manhood he gave all his spare hours to study and improving his mind for the medical profession. He began his preparatory studies with Dr. D. W. EDMISTON and then spent two years in Rush Medical College, from which he graduated with honors. He found friends who were anxious and willing to assist him with money in preparing for his profession, and the first money he earned after locating at St. James was promptly paid to his benefactors in repayment of the loan. After he graduated, Dr. Kirk located in St. James, Minn., where he soon secured the appointment of local surgeon for the Northwestern railway company, which had large shops in the town, it being the end of one of the divisions. He was fortunate in the management of cases that came under his care, and it was not long before he had a large and lucrative practice. Three years ago on the fourth of last November he was united in marriage to Miss Anna CLINTON, of Milwaukee, Wis., who is now left to mourn the death of her young husband. Dr. Kirk was a bright young man and gave promise of great usefulness in his profession.

The funeral services were held in the M. E. Church in this city yesterday morning, and were conducted by Dr. REED, assisted by Rev. W. A. HUNTER. Dr. Kirk was a member of the Masonic fraternity, and the order in this city took charge of the ceremonies. At the grave, after the ritualistic services, Mr. Ellis I. DAY, Master of the Lodge, paid the following eloquent tribute to the memory of the deceased. Both had been classmates in school and had grown up as companions from childhood.

Note: The obituary is followed by a very long sermon, available upon request.

Mr. & Mrs. John KIRKLEY 

January 17, 1913
Clinton Register

AGED COUPLE DIE SUDDENLY.

Mrs. L. K. Rose received particulars of the death of her brother, John KIRKLEY and wife, who died at Toledo, Ohio, on Tuesday of last week. They had been eating luncheon with their daughter-in-law, and Mr. Kirkley saw his wife sway in her chair. He started to assist her, when he also suffered an attack of apoplexy, and the couple died within ten minutes. Mr. Kirkley was 65 years old and his wife was 63.

Mr. Kirkley resided in Clinton about twenty-five years ago, and will be remembered by many of the older residents. He was engaged in the drug business here with the late George PORTER. His first wife was Miss Alice JOHNSON, sister of Mrs. Emma KIRK, Mrs. C. K. ZORGER, J. E. and Ira JOHNSON, all of this city.

Mrs. John KIRKLEY 

September 27, 1893, Thursday
Clinton Public

Mrs. John KIRKLEY, daughter of Mr. Eason JOHNSON, died in this city this morning.  She was sick just two weeks with typhoid fever.  The funeral services will take place on Friday afternoon at three o'clock, at her late residence.  This is a hard blow to our young friend John.  Scarcely two years married and death cruelly takes from him she who made his home and life happy.  Words of condolence are idle at such a time as this.

Note: She is listed in the cemetery book under the name Allie (Johnson) Kirkley, so her middle name might have been Alice, after her mother.

From the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index:
KIRKLEY, JONATHAN C.    JOHNSON, SABINA A.     11-14-1871    DE WITT

Mrs. Sarah KIRKLEY 

November 19, 1909
Clinton Register

Wednesday morning Mrs. Sarah KIRKLEY, an old resident of Clinton, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. ROSE, on West Jefferson street, of pneumonia, aged 85. She had been in failing health sometime, but had been seriously ill only a few days. Deceased was born in Madison Co., Ohio, Sept. 11, 1824, where she lived about 43 years. February 24, 1842, she was married to James M. KIRKLEY, and they came to Illinois in 1867, locating in Clinton where he was engaged in business, but died seven years after coming here. He was one of the stockholders when the John Warner bank was organized. Of the four children born to them two are living, Mrs. L. K. ROSE, of Clinton, and Cyrus KIRKLEY, of Toledo, Ohio. She was a member of the Universalist church. Funeral services were held yesterday at the home at 2:30, conducted by Rev. Laing, assisted by Rev. Fulton. Burial in Woodlawn cemetery.

David KISTLER 

April 28, 1905
Clinton Register

FOUR SCORE AND FOUR.

David KISTLER died Saturday morning at his home near Kenney, aged 81, of pneumonia, after an illness of four weeks.  He was born in Ohio in 1821 and had lived in DeWitt county over forty years.  He lived a quiet religious life and no one seemed to be his enemy.  He is survived by his wife, two daughters and two sons.  Funeral was held at the Baptist church near Pastime Park Sunday afternoon.  Burial in the cemetery near the church.

Effie KISTLER 

November 11, 1904
Clinton Register

DEATH OF A YOUNG LADY.

Yesterday morning at 5 o'clock Miss Effie KISTLER died of typhoid fever, aged 18, less 20 days.  She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John KISTLER, who died in Clinton about three years ago, both dying within a month.  She was born in Texas township, Jan. 1, 1887, and lived there until her parents moved to Clinton about four years ago, and had since lived here.  She was a member of church and was much interested in church work.   She is survived by three brothers and three sisters.  Funeral services were held at 2:30 today at the home, conducted by Rev. J. A. Lucas.  Burial in Woodlawn.

George KISTLER 

July 16, 1909
Clinton Register

George Kistler Suicides.

George KISTLER, twenty-five years of age committed suicide Monday morning at the home of his sister, Minnie, on East Webster street, by slashing his throat with a pocket knife.   Despondency from poor health is supposed to be the cause of the rash act.  The young man leaves one brother, Abner, and two sisters, Minnie and Nellie.  The funeral was held Wednesday afternoon at the home of his sister, Rev. R. H. Barrett of the Baptist church officiating.  Interment took place at Woodlawn.

John KISTLER 

March 8, 1901
Clinton Register

ANOTHER FATHER CALLED.
John Kistler Dies After An Illness of Two Weeks— First Taken Sick With Measles.

February 19, John KISTLER was taken sick with measles. As a result of a cold, pneumonia developed in a few days and he was unconscious several days before death came about 4 o'clock Wednesday morning. Deceased was born near Peru, Ind., June 4, 1856, and lived 44 years, 9 months and 2 days, but had lived in this county most of his life. He was married to Miss Sarah MALONE, Dec. 4, 1881. Seven children were born to them, all of whom with their mother survive. The oldest child is a daughter aged 18. For many years he lived on C. H. Moore's farm about four miles southeast of Clinton. He was industrious and had accumulated considerable property. At one time he owned four or five small properties in Clinton which he traded for land in Iowa. He still owned a home in Clinton, but when he moved to Clinton one week before he was taken sick, could not get possession and moved into another house. Deceased was an active member of the United Brethren church, and gave considerable time to assisting in conducting meetings. Funeral services at the home yesterday at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. A. Z. Gharrett, of Decatur. Interment in Woodlawn.

Mrs. John KISTLER 

March 29, 1901
Clinton Register

DEATH OF MRS. KISTLER.
Seven Children Have Their Father and Mother Taken From Them Within One Month.

Less than a month ago John KISTLER died from the effects of measles. Soon after his death Mrs. Kistler was taken sick with measles and died Monday afternoon at her home in the northeast part of the city, aged 36 years, 4 months and 12 days. The maiden name of deceased was Sarah MALONE, daughter of Wm. MALONE, living southwest of Clinton. She was married to John Kistler in 1881. Seven children survive them, the oldest a young lady. Until about two months ago the family lived three miles southwest of Clinton. She was a member of the U. B. church. Funeral services were held at the home on East Webster street Wednesday at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Gharrett. Burial was in Woodlawn.

Orval KISTLER 

December 3, 1917, Monday
Clinton Daily Public

ORVAL KISTLER DIES SUDDENLY.
Youth Who Was Hurt by Horse Friday Died Sunday Morning in Hospital.

Orval KISTLER, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Sherman KISTLER, of the Weldon Springs neighborhood southeast of Clinton, died suddenly Sunday morning in the John Warner hospital, where he had been taken after the accident Friday morning in which he received a broken leg when he fell from a horse.

An inquest was held this morning by Coroner C. H. Baker and Deputy A. E. Stone in the office of the latter.  Evidence was submitted by Mr. Kistler, father of the boy, Charles Hartsock, the nurses at the hospital and Dr. W. R. Marshall.

No one saw the accident but the boy stated afterward that he had led the horse up to a stump upon which he climbed in order to mount the horse.  He had a bucket on his arm, and was going to ride to the well, some distance away, to water the horses.  The next thing he remembered he was lying on the ground.  He did not know whether the horse threw him or whether he fell from it.  The only injury that was discovered at the time was a broken leg, but it is presumed there were internal injuries.

Orval Kistler was past 21 years of age and was born in Indiana, but had moved to DeWitt county with his parents when he was quite young.  The greater part of his life was spent here.  He was an industrious and well known young man and highly respected.  Besides his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sherman Kistler, he leaves two sisters, Selma and Mary, at home.

Funeral services will be held at 1 o'clock Tuesday afternoon from the home and burial will be in the Baptist cemetery in Tunbridge township.  Services will be in charge of Mrs. Anna Decker, of Monroe county, Ind.

Mrs. Sherman KISTLER 

April 9, 1920, Friday
Clinton Daily Public

DEMISE CAUSED BY DEATH OF FRIEND.
Mrs. Ida Kistler Falls Dead Upon Learning of Death of Solomon Mathews Yesterday.

Mrs. Sherman KISTLER, one of DeWitt county’s well known residents died at her home north of Clinton late yesterday afternoon.  Mrs. Kistler had been ill with dropsy for the past few weeks, however she dropped dead upon learning that a friend, Solomon Mathews, of Midland City, had died early yesterday morning.  Mrs. Kistler was a believer of the "faith cure" and had no medical attention before her death.

Coroner Charles Baker and Deputy A. E. Stone went to the Kistler home yesterday afternoon and conducted an inquest.  The jury rendered a verdict of "death caused by shock, active heart lesion and dropsy."

The jury which rendered the verdict was composed of C. G. Oakman, Elmer Arnold, S. D. Hutcherson, Fred Brunner and A. E. Stone.

Ida Frances Kistler was for many years a resident of this county.  At the time of her death she was fifty-three years of age.  About a year ago the Kistler family moved from the Ralph Hartsock farm, in the Weldon Springs neighborhood, to Harrodsburg, Ind., returning to DeWitt county a few weeks ago.  She is survived by her husband and two daughters, Mary and Thelma.  One son, Orville, passed away about two years ago in the John Warner Hospital.

Note: Ida Frances Tilly married William Sherman Kistler on September 18, 1897, in DeWitt County, Illinois.

Emily (NILES) KNADLER 

August 9, 1895
Clinton Public

Mrs. Emily KNADLER, nee NILES, was born near Geneva, N. Y., April 9, 1824. In 1846 she was married to G. W. KNADLER, a carpenter, and in 1850 they moved to Clinton. Four children blessed this union, three of whom survive their parents—Mrs. Jeannette EDMISTON, of Clinton; Mrs. Sarah STELL, of Gainsesville, Fla.; and LaFayette KNADLER, of Oklahoma, L. T.

In 1883, Mr. Knadler and family moved to Florida, where the climate, fruit, etc., captivated them so that they became residents of the country, building a home and planting a grove of oranges. The yellow fever of 1888 alarmed them and they returned North, where Mrs. Knadler remained until the death of her husband in 1892. After his death, deceased and daughter Sarah returned South, where Mrs. Knadler hoped to regain her broken constitution. Five months ago with her physician she returned to Chicago, where a specialist declared she had cancer and it would prove fatal. She returned to Clinton, and among her old friends passed her last hours on earth. She was a woman of superior business ability, demonstrating by thirty years of contact with the commercial world her executive strength of character. She conducted a successful millinery business in Clinton, and was also general agent for years of the Singer Sewing Machine Co. She was always kind to the weak, proving in many cases a pillow [sic] of strength to the timid and faltering. The poor never appealed to her in vain, her generosity being a strong tenet of her Methodist faith. She leaves behind her many memories that will long be cherished by her host of friends. Remains were buried in Woodlawn cemetery Monday afternoon, Rev. W. J. TULL officiating at the funeral services at her late home on Monroe street.

Arrod KNIGHT 

July 21, 1911
Paper Unknown

Arrod Knight.

Friday afternoon at 4:40 o'clock the protracted illness of Arrod KNIGHT came to a close and he peacefully passed away at his home on the western edge of the city, aged 73 years and 10 months. Mr. Knight was for many years precarious in health and frail of strength and on several occasions in that time he drew very near to the land of shadows. His final illness, which terminated in death, began last autumn, and during the long, dreary winter and then through the days of awakening spring and into the bright summer time he lingered in suffering and without promise of relief or recovery. But through all he was most patient and uncomplaining, sparing his family and friends from troubling on his account and being sustained by the promises of Him whom he had loved and served nearly all his life.

The funeral was held in the Methodist Episcopal church on Monday forenoon, Rev. Geo. E. Scrimger conducting it and being assisted by Revs. H. A. Howard, J. L. McKay, C. W. Conover and R. E. Stevenson. The members of Lemon post G.A.R. and Lemon W.R.C. attended in a body, the former society conducting their ritualistic service at the grave, in the City cemetery. The pall-bearers were D. H. Heller, J. B. Nowlin, F. M. Martin and J. W. Beckwith, members of Lemon post, and John Kirby and Mac Tinder of Monticello, two comrades of Mr. Knight in the Second Illinois cavalry. Two other Monticello members of the Second cavalry were in attendance at the funeral and Mr. Martin was also in that regiment and Mr. Knight's company. The choir was composed of Mrs. A. G. Albright and Messrs. G. M. Callison, T. E. McConkey, and Roscoe Ewbank.

Deceased was born in Holmes county, Ohio, Sept. 14, 1837, his parents being Michael and Martha (HOAGLAND) KNIGHT. He came to Illinois in 1851 and located near Farmer City, and this was his home thereafter with the exception of a few years spent in Kansas. He was married to Elnora DANNER on Oct. 2, 1866, and to this union were born five children—Mrs. F. H. MELIZA, of Farmer City; William P., of FAIRBANKS, Alaska; Fred A., of Winnebago, Minn.; Mrs. Daisy E. PURDY, of Almoosa, Col.; and Philip R., living at home.

Mr. Knight was a volunteer in the Second Illinois cavalry and served four years of the civil war. He was converted under the preaching of Rev. William E. Johnson and united with the M. E. church at the age of 18 years. He was an especially devoted and faithful member of that society, and on the organization of the Busy Men's Bible class of the M. E. Sunday school he became a member. He was very regular and prompt at the meetings of the class and continued as long as his strength permitted, his last journey away from home in life being to a meeting of this class.

Submitted by Mary (Meliza) Berg

--------------------

July 21, 1911
Clinton Register

Arod Knight is Dead.

Arod KNIGHT died Friday evening after an illness of several weeks of dropsy. He was 74 years old and had resided in Farmer City practically all his life. He is survived by his wife and five children: William, of Lawton, Alaska; Fred, of Nebraska; Rolla, at home; Mrs. Frank MELIZA, of Farmer City; and Mrs. George PURDY, of Colorado. He was a member of the G. A. R. and of the M. E. church.

Lourenza D. KNIGHT 

March 31, 1893
Clinton Public

Farmer City.

L.D. KNIGHT died at his home north of this city Saturday night of heart trouble.   His death was very sudden, he being in good health up to Friday evening.  The funeral was held Tuesday.  Mr. Knight was an old resident, being in his 59th year.

Note: His given name was found on his tombstone at Farmer City Cemetery.

Mrs. Moses H. KNIGHT 

January 1928
Paper Unknown

America Clearwater Knight.
Mrs. A. Knight, One Of Oldest Citizens, Dies.
Born in a Log Cabin at the Intersection of Main Street and Clinton Avenue.
Lived 87 Years.
Funeral Services here Held At Methodist Church Monday Morning.

America CLEARWATER, daughter of Nathan and Mary CLEARWATER, was born August 8, 1840 in a log cabin located at the intersection of Main Street and Clinton Avenue in this city and used by her parents as a hotel. She died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Frank BARTHOLOMEW on Saturday, January 14, 1928, at the advanced age of eighty-seven years, five months and four days, after an illness of almost a year. About a year ago she with her daughter went to Oklahoma City, Okla., and for several weeks enjoyed a visit with her son, Nathan. When returning home she was taken ill and from that time was kept almost constantly to the home of her daughter.

Funeral services were held at the M. E. Church Monday morning by the Rev. J. E. Evans and burial was made in the city cemetery beside her first husband. During the service hour, "Going Down the Valley," "Asleep in Jesus," and "Some Day We Will Understand" were sung. The Pall bearers were grandsons and great grandsons of the deceased and were as follows: J. SHUMAKER and two sons, Melvin and Albert, of Bloomington; Ira BEAMAN, of Villa Grove; Albert HOHMAN of this city; and Dewey CONRAD of Rockford.

On October 5, 1855 she was united in marriage to Hardy H. SHUMAKER and to this union were born nine children, four of whom preceded their mother to the grave. The surviving children are Nathan SHUMAKER, of Oklahoma City, Okla., Mrs. Frank BARTHOLOMEW, of Farmer City, Ill., Mrs. Oscar CONRAD, of Rockford, Ill., Andrew H. SHUMAKER, of Villa Grove, Ill., and Harry L. SHUMAKER, of Seattle, Wash. Mr. Shumaker died on Feb. 22, 1874. He had served in the Civil War and there contracted a severe cold finally terminating in pneumonia from which he died. He left six children for the mother to provide for. She continued her residence in this city until her removal to Bloomington for a period of six years and removing from that city to Farmer City and thence to Monticello. While residing at the last address she was united in marriage to Moses H. KNIGHT on December 25, 1888. Soon after this marriage she returned to Farmer City and purchased the old home place on Clinton Avenue in which she continued to reside until her recent sickness. Her second husband passed away on August 26, 1911.

At the age of thirteen years she was converted and joined the Methodist Church at what was then the old Camp Ground and which afterwards became Camp Ground Cemetery, during the ministry of Rev. Sam Martin. After the removal of the M. E. Church to its present site she became an attendant at the M. P. Church on account of its nearness to her home. She was ever a believer in her God and during her sickness often referred to Him as her helper.

On December 30, 1885 her father passed away and the mother followed her husband two years later on December 25, 1887. There were eleven children in the family of her parents and she was the last one to be called to the Eternal Home. Besides the five children she is survived by twenty grand children, twenty-seven great grand children and two great-great grand children. The first death to occur in this community was a brother, William Smith CLEARWATER, son of Nathan and Mary Clearwater, which took place on November 13, 1834. He was the first person buried in the city cemetery.

She was only human after all. So much greater the honor due to her precious memory, that being only human, she should pass through all the trials that have beset her pathway and yet wear the crown of victory at the end. Shall we say too much when we say that Aunt Merica, as she was known by many, who was stricken and was tottering beneath the weight of years, was blessed when without pain or suffering, her gentle spirit was wafted to the Paradise of God.

Relatives and friends from a distance who attended the funeral were: Miss Stella Shumaker, Champaign; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Griffith, Mr. and Mrs. William Griffith, Mr. and Mrs. Anderson, Mrs. Frank Griffith, all of Monticello: Mr. and Mrs. O. L. Conrad and son, Dewey, and grandson, of Rockford; John Shumaker and family, of Bloomington; Mrs. Sherman Griffith and daughter of Peoria; Mrs. Geo. Purdy, of Elmhurst; Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Shumaker and Mr. and Mrs. Ira Beamon, of Villa Grove.

Submitted by Mary (Meliza) Berg

Mrs. Robert L. KNIGHT 

January 8, 1915
Clinton Register

DEATH OF MRS. KNIGHT.

Mrs. Robert L. KNIGHT died Sunday morning at four o'clock in the Warner hospital following an illness of but one week, three days of which she had been in the hospital.  Deceased was afflicted with dropsy and heart trouble, and a sudden attack of pneumonia hastened her death.  Funeral services were held from the Oakman chapel at three o'clock Monday afternoon, Rev. E. K. Towle being in charge of the services.  Burial in Woodlawn.

Deceased with her family had lived in the city for the past three years, coming here from Battle Creek, Mich.  She was born in Scotland in 1874, and came to America at the age of 19 to meet her affianced, Robert L. KNIGHT, who had preceded her to the new world.  They were married following her arrival at Battle Creek.   One child, a son, was born to them.  He resides in Champaign and was present at the funeral.  Mrs. Knight was a member of the Presbyterian church before coming to Clinton.  Her husband is a machinist at the shops.

Robert R. KNIGHT 

January 15, 1892
Clinton Public

Robert R. KNIGHT, aged sixty-four years, died on his farm, near Farmer City, on last Saturday. Mr. Knight was an old citizen of Santa Anna township, and in 1859 he represented that township in the board of supervisors.

Mrs. Robert R. KNIGHT 

April 3, 1908
Farmer City Journal

Mrs. Esther Knight.
Aged and Well Beloved Resident Is at Rest.

Tuesday night shortly before 8 o'clock death claimed Mrs. Esther KNIGHT, who had been ill and failing for seven weeks with heart trouble and the infirmities of age died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. G. H. MITTAN. Deceased was past 80 years of age, and the greater part of that long life was spent in this immediate vicinity. She was the sixth of seven children and the last survivor of her family. Her life history contains several facts which are unusual, even unique. Though she was married at the early age of 16 years, she had already taught school three terms. Her large family was reared during the times when household conveniences were few, yet she found time from her spinning and weaving and other now unknown duties to set her children's feet firmly in the narrow way, read her Bible through once each year and lay up a store of blessed assurance which was a source of strength and comfort during her latter years, especially during her long, wearisome and at times painful illness.

Esther, daughter of Matthew and Margaret JOHNSON, was born Nov. 2, 1827, in Monmouth County, N. J., and came with the family to this vicinity in 1846. The parents and the following brothers and sisters have preceded her to the other shore: Samuel JOHNSON, Charlotte STANSBURY, Lydia WALTON, Mary JONES, Peter and Gilbert JOHNSON.

On June 27, 1843, she was married to William DANNER and they resided on land adjoining the city on the west, Mr. Danner being the village squire. Five children were born to them, four dying in early childhood. The first born and only survivor of that little family is Mrs. Elnora D. KNIGHT. After Mr. Danner's death in 1851 Mrs. Danner married Robert R. KNIGHT on Nov. 18, 1856, and they lived on a farm two miles southwest of town. Their children are Mrs. Lon PHILIPY and E. Claude KNIGHT, of Wabash, Ind.; Mrs. MITTAN, Mrs. H. M. GILLESPIE, of Normal; R. Frank KNIGHT, of Wichita, Kan., and Mrs. Thomas B. CHUBB, of Sioux City, Iowa. A daughter, Lydia Bell, died at 4 years of age. Mr. Knight passed away Jan. 9, 1892, and soon after that event Mrs. Knight gave up trying to operate the farm and made her home among her children, nine years being spent with Mrs. Gillespie, then a number of months with Mrs. Philipy, and last October she came to Mrs. Mittan's. Another surviving relative is Mrs. Dora O. HERRICK, of this city, a step-daughter.

Mrs. Knight was converted and made choice of a church home in childhood. A full and conscientious following of her profession very early developed a life which was not only a blessing in her family circle but exerted its influence abroad among friends and acquaintances. The funeral will be conducted by Rev. W. F. Stevenson on Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the late home and burial will take place in the City cemetery. Friends are invited to attend, but are asked to omit flowers.

Submitted by Mary (Meliza) Berg

William KNIGHTS 

July 26, 1912
Clinton Register

FARMER CITY DEATH.

William KNIGHT died at his home at Farmer City Sunday at the age of 70 years.  He was one of the well known residents of that city.  Mr. Knight is survived by his widow and six children.

Note: He was the son of John and Adeline Knights, who are buried in Farmer City Cemetery.

James KNOTT 

September 7, 1906
Clinton Register

MAROA MAN DEAD.

James KNOTT died Friday evening at his home in Maroa, aged 80. He was well known in the southern part of DeWitt county. He was born in England in 1826. His mother died when he was but an infant and his father when he was but 8 years old. At the age of nine years he began work in a cotton factory, where he remained until he came to America in 1857. For a time he worked on a farm where the town of Rowell now stands. In 1858 he was married to Hannah WOODCOCK and they moved to a farm near Kenney. Later they moved to a farm west of Maroa where they lived until 1895 when they went to Maroa. In Oct. 1898 his wife died. For a number of years he has been blind. He is survived by five children Mrs. W. H. STONEBRAKER, Mrs. J. M. RAMMELL, Misses Mary and Alice, of Maroa, and John, of Clinton.

Louis KRENKEL 

January 24, 1913
Clinton Register

Louis KRENKEL died at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the home of his parents one and a half miles west of Waynesville. For two years he had suffered occasionally with appendicitis and last Saturday submitted to an operation, but the disease had been allowed to progress too far. Deceased was born near Lincoln, November 21, 1895, and was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles KRENKEL. When a boy, his parents moved to near Waynesville, and that had since been his home. Two years ago he united with the M. E. church and had been an active and faithful member. He was also an excellent student, very popular and his death will be mourned by many. Besides his parents he is survived by two brothers and one sister, William of California, John and Mary at home.

Note: His name was spelled Lewis in this obituary, but his tombstone has Louis.

--------------------

January 31, 1913
Clinton Register

The funeral services of the late Louis KRENKEL were held Saturday afternoon at the M. E. church.  Miss Pearl Marvel, Mrs. Charles Marvel, Earl Gambrel and Vernon Jones, with Miss Mae James as accompanist, sang several selections.  The pallbearers were Messrs. John Hammitt, John Wilson, Arthur Adair, Glenn Buck, Roy Warrick and Oscar Misner.  The pupils of the high school attended in a body.

Andrew J. KREPPS 

March 18, 1910
Farmer City Journal

SOLDIER MUSTERS OUT—
"TAPS" IS SOUNDED FOR A. J. KREPPS, ONE OF CITY'S OLDEST RESIDENTS.

Tuesday morning at 4:05 o'clock death claimed A. J. KREPPS, who had been lying in an unconscious and failing condition for nearly three weeks, the result of a fall on the ice early in January, when his head was severely wounded. "Uncle Jack," as he was familiarly called by his friends, was one of the old residents of the county, having come here in 1859. He was also one of the oldest people in this city, being nearly 82 years of age. Besides all that, he was one of the oldest of that body of old men, which this community, and every patriotic community, delights in honoring—the veterans of 1861-1865.

The funeral was conducted in the M. E. church on Thursday afternoon by Rev. G. E. SCRIMGER, assisted by Rev. J.L. McKAY, and burial took place in Maple Grove cemetery. The active pall-bearers were chosen from the Sons of Veterans camp and the honorary pall-bearers from among Uncle Jack's comrades of the Grand Army of the Republic.

Andrew Jackson KREPPS was born in Washington county, Pa., May 28, 1828, and was the son of Solomon G. and Emaline KREPPS. He spent his youth in Washington and Fayette counties and his education was gained in the same country school house that was attended by that noted statesman James G. BLAINE, the two being good comrades. Mr. KREPPS learned carpentering in his youth and followed it to a certain extent in after years. Several of the older houses in this city and vicinity were built by him. While not yet of age Uncle Jack went from Pennsylvania to Montgomery county Indiana, where he finished his schooling in Crawfordsville. From Indiana he came to this county in 1859, living first in DeWitt township. He came to Santa Anna township on 1867 and bought eighty acres of land five miles southwest of Farmer City, where he made his home until 18 years ago, when he moved into the city.

Mr. KREPPS took part in the Civil War and while in the army displayed excellent soldierly qualities. He enlisted Aug. 15, 1862, in the One Hundred and Seventh Illinois, of which the late Tom SNELL of Clinton was a colonel for awhile. His regiment was assigned to the army of the Cumberland and bore a part in many gallant battles. It fought at Huff's Ferry, at Spring Hill, engaged with enemy at Loundoun and served all through the Atlanta campaign, followed Hood over the south for some time and later fought the battle of Nashville. Mr. KREPPS was in the army until the close of the war, serving faithfully for three years. He escaped capture, was never wounded and was nearly always ready to report for duty.

Mr. KREPPS was married Nov. 1, 1855 to Miss Mary E(lizabeth) HURLEY, whose parents, Timothy and Hannah HURLEY, were pioneers of this community. The children born to them who survive their father are Charles E., Mrs. Josie GARDNER (Francis Josephine KREPPS), Mrs. Olive CONOVER (Mary Olive KREPPS), Elmer L., all residing in this city. Mrs. KREPPS died in 1895, and on Apr. 19, 1896, Mr. KREPPS was united in marriage with Sarah LATIMER, who survives him. Deceased was noted for his unswerving integrity and his strong adherence to truthfulness and honesty. He took an active interest and part in politics and was on several occasions elected to township office by the Republicans.

Submitted by Benjamin West

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March 18, 1910
Clinton Register

Death in Farmer City.

Andrew Jackson KREPPS died at his home in Farmer City Tuesday. He had been in good health until a couple of months ago, when he fell on the ice and fractured his skull. Mr. Krepps was 81 years old and is survived by his wife and three children, Mrs. W. P. GARDNER, E. L. KREPPS and C. L. KREPPS, all resided in Farmer City. The funeral was held in the M. E. church Thursday at 2 p.m., conducted by Rev. George E. Scrimger, assisted by Rev. J. L. McKay, and in charge of Lemon Post, G. A. R. Burial in Maple Grove cemetery.

Mrs. Andrew J. KREPPS 

August 2, 1895
Clinton Public

Mrs. A. J. KREPPS, nee HURLEY, died at her home in Farmer City, Sunday afternoon, aged fifty-eight years. A husband and two sons and two daughters grown to maturity survive her. She was a prominent character of that place, loved for her gentleness of spirit and....(the rest is cut off).

L. F. KYLE 

November 26, 1909
Clinton Register

Died in Bloomington.

L. F. KYLE, for fourteen years yardmaster for the Illinois Central Railroad Co. in Clinton and Decatur, died at his home in Bloomington on Monday morning at 5 o'clock of tuberculosis.  Mr. Kyle was one of the best known and most popular railroad men during his residence here.  He left Decatur two years ago and went to Bloomington where he became a yardmaster for the Illinois Central Railroad Co. He held that position until six months ago, when ill health compelled him to resign.  He then was appointed oil inspector for the city of Bloomington.  He was about 43 years of age.  He leaves a widow, and a brother, Harry, living in Centralia.

Peter KYLE 

December 29, 1911
Clinton Register

Aged Inmate Dies.

At the county farm Wednesday morning at 7 o'clock occurred the death of Peter KYLE, one of the oldest inmates.  He was about 63 years of age.  Deceased leaves a daughter, Mrs. Sherman GLENN, of Parnell, a son John KYLE, and a stepson, Chas. SEXTON, both of Chicago.  Remains were taken to Cline’s undertaking parlors, where the funeral was held at 2 o'clock this afternoon, conducted by Rev. J. F. Rosborough.  All the children were present.  Mr. Kyle resided in the vicinity of Parnell many years.   Remains will be buried in Woodlawn.

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