Morgan County Illinois Obituaries – W Surnames

Obituary of Clara Albertina BEASON WALKINGTON (BRADY), Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WALKINGTON, Clara Albertina BEASON (BRADY)
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: Feb. 2, 1901
Obituary: IN MEMORIAM
Another Loved One Gone
Clara Albertina BRADY was born July 6th, 1836, and died at her home on Wednesday, January 23d, 1901, being at the time of her death 64 years, 6 months and 17 days old. She was united in marriage to Henry T. BEASON in 1860; to this union were born two daughters, Mrs. Sarah BAILEY of Kansas City, Mo., and Mrs. Ida ALDERSON who just one week previous preceded her mother to that heavenly home. After the death of Mr. BEASON, which occurred in 1871, she united in marriage to William WALKINGTON in 1873. They were happily blest with three children, Albert, Ellsworth and Mrs. Nellie HAMNER, who with a loving husband, one brother, six grandchildren, seven stepchildren and a large number of sorrowing friends, are left to mourn the loss; but we mourn not as those who have no hope, for we believe and are sure that our loss is her eternal gain.
When quite young she united with the Baptist church and remained a member of that church until October 14th, 1900, when she united with the Christian church at Oak Grove under the pastorate of Rev. KINDRED of Eureka, Ill., always being a steadfast and true christian. This dear one’s illness was very short, but it consisted of much suffering, yet she bore her pain with a christian’s fortitude and without a murmer. She was, as everyone knew, a gentle, sweet spirited christian, shining as a bright light in the home.
Not only does the family lose a loving wife and dear mother, but the community feel as if they had lost a true friend and neighbor that will greatly miss her counsels and willing sacrifices.
May this sorrow-beclouded home be brightened by the blessed Savior’s presence, bringing to each heart a fond hope of a happy meeting on the other shore.
The funeral services were held at the Rohrer M.E. Chapel on Friday, Jan. 25th, at 11 a.m., conducted by Rev. BURTON of Virden, Ill.
A quartette of Waverly rendered some beautiful and appropriate hymns after which the last sad look was taken at the remains; they were then taken to the East cemetery their last resting place where the last sad tributes were paid to the departed one.
The pall bearers were: Wm. WALLS, H. E. CONLEE, C. F. ALFORD, Lewis CASWELL, Thurston BRIAN and W. A. BARROW.
Sleep on, dear mother
And take thy rest;
God called thee from us,
He knoweth best.

Name of Deceased: WARING, Frank
Name of Newspaper: Jacksonville Daily Journal
Date of Obituary: April 4, 1882
Obituary: Death of Frank WARING. At the City Hospital yesterday Mr. Frank WARING, brother-in-law of Mr. James BOLTON, of this city, died of consumption after a long illness from that disease. The remains were placed on the afternoon east bound Wabash train, conveyed to Antioch, six miles out town, and interred in the cemetery at that point.

Obituary of William C. WATERS, Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WATERS, William C.
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Enterprise
Date of Obituary: July 6, 1901
Obituary: ANOTHER OLD PIONEER IS CALLED TO HIS REWARD.
Uncle William WATERS, who for many years has been a familiar figure in our midst is summoned.
William C. WATERS, son of Zachariah and Elizabeth WATERS was born in Casey County, Kentucky, March 6, 1825, and died at his home in this city Monday July 1, 1901.
Joseph WATERS, the grandfather of the deceased, came to Illinois in the autumn of 1825 and settled on a part of the Judge WOODS farm near Pisgah, Ill., and he became the leader in the constitution of Union Baptist church, of which he was one of the first deacons. In this neighborhood Brother WATERS grew up to manhood and as his father, Eld. Zachariah WATERS began to preach the gospel much of the responsibility and care of the family was thrown upon William, he being the oldest child in the family. Early in the forties under the labors of two pioneer preachers, Elders John ANTLE and DESPAIN he professed a hope in Christ and became a member of Union church, and at the age of twenty-one he was united in marriage to Miss Kisiah BRUTON. In the year of 1847 Bro. WATERS with his father’s family moved six miles northwest of Carlinville, where he united in constituting Charity church of which he was a member for a great many years. He was married four times and to him were born nine children, five of whom have preceded him to the better world. Four children, Tilford, Ellen, Palmer and William, his faithful wife, nine grandchildren, and one brother John, of Carlinville, and a host of brethren and sisters in Christ with a host of friends are left until the shadows are a little longer grown, but we mourn not as others which have no hope. His health had been vacillating and failing for some time until on the morning of July 1, 1901, he quietly passed away.
The funeral services were held at the Baptist church in this city at 2 o’clock p.m. and were conducted by Rev. T. C. COFFEY, assisted by Rev. Wm. HART, of Hart’s Prairie, an old friend and acquaintance of Uncle William, which he had known for many years. Quite a large crowd was in attendance at the funeral, considering the exceedingly warm weather, and gave evidence of the fact that his circle of friends was quite extended.
The decorations and floral offerings were many and very beautiful and the songs were appropriate and well rendered by the choir which consisted of Messrs. T. C. COFFEY, Wm. TURNBULL, Louis SEALS, Harry HART and Mesdames Jas. BRADWAY, J. H. SHUTT, C. A. WELLS and Miss Minnie NEECE.
The pall-bearers were: Messrs. J. H. NEECE, A. J. WOODS, F. M. SAMPLE, J. C. DEATHERAGE, A. C. MOFFET, Wm. DALE, Edwin BATTY, C. A. WELLS, A. E. GRAGG, Wm. ARNOLD, C. N. Kendrick and Isaac FISHER and, according to the request of the deceased, the casket was carried instead of being conveyed by the hearse to its last resting place in East cemetery.
In the loss of Mr. WATERS the Baptist church at this place keenly feels the loss of one of its truest members and supporters and the community feels the loss of a man who certainly walked as a true Christian among men and one who lived in strict accordance with his Christian belief. He was at the time of his death, and had been for many years previous one of the trustees in the church here and his friendly council and timely advice was ever a much appreciated and much sought favor and, although not a very talkative man, he was a man of sound judgment and definite conclusions and these principles in particular characterized him as a man of more than ordinary ability and judgment.
In fact he was a true Christian, so far as man can judge, and certainly no stronger recommendation can be given. A place is vacant which never can be filled.

Obituary of Jessie Catherine WERNER (MAYES), Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WERNER, Jessie Catherine (MAYES)
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: March 1918
Obituary: Jessie Catherine MAYES WERNER was born August 11, 1899 and died at her home north of Lowder Friday, March 22, 1918, aged 18 years, 7 months and 11 days.
She leaves to mourn their loss her husband and infant son; her parents; five brothers, James Frederick of Beardstown; Albert Sherman of Lowder; Jedd Elmer, William Edward and Johnnie Thurston, all at home; two sisters, Lennie May LARGE and Emaline PETERSON, both of Lowder, together with a host of relatives and friends.
At the age of fifteen years she was united with the Methodist Episcopal church of Lowder, of which she lived a faithful and consistent member until death.
Funeral services were held at the residence Saturday, March 23, in charge of Rev. D. C. BYUS. Interment was in Turner Cemetery.

Name of Deceased: WHITLOCK, Edwin Judson
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: June 1917
Obituary: Edwin Judson WHITLOCK entered into rest after a lingering illness at St. Louis hospital, St. Louis, Mo., June 26, at 2:30 a.m., at the age of 31 years, 8 months and 6 days. The deceased was the beloved son of Mrs. Anna L. WHITLOCK of St. Louis, and dear brother of Mrs. Julius ROLF of Chicago.
The remains were brought to this city Wednesday morning and taken to the home of his aunt, Mrs. Ida CARUTHERS, where short services were held, conducted by Rev. M. S. METZLER, pastor of the Christian church. Interment was made in Rogers cemetery.

Obituary of Samuel WELLER, Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WELLER, Samuel
Name of Newspaper: The Enterprise
Date of Obituary: Thursday, Feb. 11, 1904
Obituary: Samuel WELLER was born in Russellville, Ky. Aug. 26, 1821 and died Feb. 6, 1904, at the home of his daughter Mrs. Addie CLOUD, at the age of 82 years, 5 months and 10 days.
He was left an orphan when 4 years old and then lived with his grandfather Rohrer until 16 years of age, when he then learned the tailor’s trade of which he worked at until he moved to Morgan Co., Ills. 50 years ago at which place he has since lived.
In 1845 he was united in marriage to Adeline LINDSEY who preceded him to the better world in 1880. To this union 11 children were born, 7 of whom still survive, namely Samuel Jr., Russell Springs, Kan., Edward, Henry, Mrs. Mittie DAY of Luray, Mo., Fred of Mount Sterling, Iowa, Mrs. Addie CLOUD, and Mrs. Elizabeth GOACHER of Waverly, Ill., all of whom were at his bedside during his illness but Henry.
In 1880 he was married to Rachel COOPER, of Russellville, Ky., who also died April 19, 1901.
Mr. Weller after moving to Illinois was converted at a camp meeting and joined the M. E. church at Appalonia and has since been a member until his death.
The funeral was held at the M. E. church, South Feb. 8, at 10:30 in charge of Rev. T. H. AGNEW. A large congregation assembled to pay their respects to this aged and respected citizen.

Obituary of Rachel V. WELLER (COOPER), Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WELLER, Rachel V. (COOPER)
Name of Newspaper:
Date of Obituary:
Obituary: Miss Rachel V. COOPER was born near Russellville, Ky., Dec. 9, 1827, and was married to Samuel WELLER, of Waverly, Feb. 28, 1889. She passed away from this life at her home in this city on Friday, April 19, 1901, at ten minutes past 3 o’clock p.m., aged 73 years, 4 months and 10 days, after an illness of but a few days, her disease being pneumonia. In early life she became a member of the Baptist church where she lived in Kentucky, and continued until her death. She is survived by aged husband, Samuel Weller, who lives here, one brother, O. W. COOPER, and one sister, Mrs. Jane BROWN, both of Russellville, Ky., and a large circle of other relatives and friends. Mrs. Weller was an exemplary christian woman, both in spirit and deed. The funeral service was held at the family residence last Sunday, at 3:00 p.m., and was conducted by Rev. T. C. COFFEY of the Baptist church. Interment in Roger’s cemetery.

Obituary of Samantha Melvina WATKINS (DEATHERAGE), Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WATKINS, Samantha Melvina (DEATHERAGE)
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: Oct. 1919
Obituary: Mrs. Samantha Melvina WATKINS departed this life Wednesday, October 22, 1919, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. W. F. Miner, at the age of 86 years and 5 months. She was born May 29, 1832, on the farm on which she died.
She was converted at the age of 16, and joined the Methodist church, in which she was an untiring worker until her afflictions overtook her.
In June 1853 she was married to Henry WATKINS, who lived only fifteen months afterwards. To this union was born one daughter, Mrs. Florence MINER.
The deceased was the daughter of Achilles and Malinda DEATHERAGE. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Joseph Winston and James Newton DEATHERAGE, and one sister, Sophia Frances HOLLIDAY. She is survived by one brother, Charles Rogers DEATHERAGE, of Jacksonville.
She leaves to mourn their loss her daughter, Mrs. W. F. MINER, four grandchildren, Mrs. Ethel FLETCHER, Henry MINER, Sno and Lois MINER; and four great grandchildren, Florence, Marion, Lester and Edmund FLETCHER.
Funeral services were held at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Wm. MINER, Friday, October 24th, at 11:00 a.m., in charge of Rev. R. J. WATTS of Girard, assisted by Rev. F. E. SMITH. Interment was in Rogers cemetery.

Obituary of Sarah WHITE (DEATHERAGE), Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WHITE, Sarah (DEATHERAGE)
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: Jan. 15, 1904
Obituary: Sarah DEATHRAGE WHITE was born in Simpson Co., Ky, March 25, 1816. When 14 years of age the family moved to this community where they became permanent residents.
She accepted Christ as her master at the early age of 15 and as she told a friend, since 31 had been ready to go. This places her as bearing the cross for 72 years. She first united with the M. E. church, but withdrew and joined the M. E. church, South, in 1859 in which organization she lived and died an acceptable member. Her membership was transferred from Appalonia to Waverly in 1894.
She was married to James WHITE Sept. 20, 1838 and to them were born two children who remain, viz., Mesdames H. H. and Jno A. DEATHERAGE. Eight grandchildren and sic great grandchildren are left to mourn her departure.
She fell on the ice which had formed on the porch of her home, Sunday evening, Dec. 20, and lingered in much pain and suffering until Monday, Jan. 11, 1904, when her release came at the ripe age of 87 yrs., 9 mos, and 16 days.
The funeral was held from the M. E. church, South, and interment made in Rogers cemetery.

Obituary of William WINDERS, Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WINDERS, William
Name of Newspaper:
Date of Obituary: March 16, 1883
Obituary: Died, at the residence of Hardin L. TURNER, 1½ miles west of this city, on Friday last, 16th inst., of pneumonia, William WINDERS, aged 22 years. William was from Todd co., Ky., and for some time past had been living in this community, working for John MONTGOMERY, Jos. FISHBACK, John CRISWELL and others. He was an industrious young man, and very saving of his means, and was much respected by all the families with whom he had lived. Having made a profession of religion a few weeks before taking sick, he waited patiently, and without fear, the time of his departure. After the funeral service conducted by Rev. Robert ____, the fatherless and motherless boy was, on Saturday afternoon, in the presence of a large concourse, laid in the Rogers’ cemetery.

Obituary of Esther WHITLOCK (MORGAN), Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WHITLOCK, Esther (MORGAN)
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: April 1914
Obituary: Esther MORGAN, daughter of Gabriel and Molly MORGAN, was born at Fall Branch, Tennessee June 3, 1827, and departed this life at her home in this city April 27, 1914, aged 86 years, 10 months and 25 days.
In 1846 she was united in marriage to Isaac WHITLOCK. To this union eleven children were born, all of whom have preceded her in death.
The early part of her life was spent in Tennessee, she and her husband removing from there to Illinois soon after their marriage.
She was converted at an early age and after coming to Illinois, her membership was placed with the Apple Creek Baptist church, where it has remained ever since.
She leaves to mourn their loss, her son-in-law, Luther TURNER, and a granddaughter Katherine, with whom she has made her home for a number of years; seven other grandchildren, ten great grandchildren besides a large number of other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were held at he late home in this city Wednesday morning April 29, at 8 o’clock, conducted by Rev. H. M. ELLIS of the M. E. church, South, after which the remains were laid to rest in the Rogers cemetery.

Obituary of Thomas WELLS, Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WELLS, Thomas
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Enterprise
Date of Obituary: July 17, 1882
Obituary: DEATH OF LITTLE TOMMY WELLS
Died - In the city of Jacksonville, on Saturday, the 15th inst., at 8 o’clock p.m., little Tommy WELLS, aged six years, only child of Charles and Ida WELLS, of this city.
His remains were brought to this city on Sunday by special train from Jacksonville, accompanied by many friends.
This morning the writer, on arriving at home, had for the first time the sad news broke to him of the death of little Tommy. We immediately repaired to the residence of Bro. Thos. TURNER, where a large concourse of friends were in waiting. Tremblingly we tried to address them from the words of Paul to the Thess., 4th chap. 14th verse. The services were very solemn and imposing. The house was more than crowded, many standing during the entire service.
In the death of little Tommy, Bro. And Sister WELLS have lost a darling and sweet little boy. His amiability and little manly courtesy won for him a place in every heart. A large concourse of friends followed his remains to the East cemetery, where we lay his little body to rest until the mighty angel shall summon the sleeping nations of the dead to Judgement.
O, Lord, help us all to be faithful, that we may see him over there.
J. E. NICHOLSON

In connection with Tommy’s death the Jacksonville Journal of last Tuesday says: Three weeks ago Tommy WELLS, 7-year old son of Conductor Chas. WELLS, passenger conductor on the Jacksonville
Southeastern railway, while walking over an unfinished floor in a new house near his home in Waverly, fell through the joists to the cellar below and in the fall bit his tongue very severely, causing it to bleed profusely. The tongue was badly injured and it was found impossible to stop the bleeding except for brief intervals. Slowly the little fellow’s strength gave way under the constant loss of blood. A week ago he was brought here and place under Dr. PRINCE’S care, but to no advantage. Saturday last the doctor performed an operation to stop the bleeding, cauterizing the tongue. That night at 8 o’clock the feeble little lamp went out and the sufferer breathed his last. Sunday afternoon the remains were taken by special train to Waverly. Quite a number of friends and relatives accompanied them. Messrs. Will LOMBARD, Sam OSBORNE, Lon OSBORNE and A. J. PRATT served as pallbearers.
The funeral services took place yesterday. Tommy’s death, in consequence of an accident of such a peculiar nature and so unexpected, is a fearful blow to the fond parents, and they possess the profoundest and sincerest sympathy of all their many friends.

Obituary of Mae WHEELER (SEYMOUR), Morgan Co Illinois ©2006 Submitted by:
Click for Cemetery Reading

Name of Deceased: WHEELER, Mae (SEYMOUR)
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: Friday, August 29, 1913
Obituary: Mrs. Jesse WHEELER died at the home of her father, Samuel SEYMOUR, Monday afternoon at 3:40 o’clock. She had undergone an operation in June, and had never fully recovered from its effects. On Monday afternoon a hemorrhage suddenly developed, and she died before medical assistance could be obtained.
Mrs. WHEELER was formerly Miss Mae SEYMOUR, and was born in Franklin February 16, 1879. She was a graduate from Jacksonville High School and the Illinois Woman’s College. On September 1, 1910, she was married to Jesse WHEELER. They lived two years at Normal and one year at Putnam, but had been spending this summer with Mrs. WHEELER’S parents.
She is survived by her husband, parents, one brother and three sisters. The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon at Providence M. E. church, Rev. A. H. FLAGGE of Assumption officiating. Interment was in Providence cemetery.

Name of Deceased: WOOD, Emily Katherine (COX)
Name of Newspaper: Jacksonville Journal
Date of Obituary:January 28, 1899
Obituary: Mrs. George WOOD died at her home near Pisgah Friday morning after an illness extending over many years. She was a very catimable lady and highly respected in the community, which had been her home for so many years. The funeral will take place from the Union Baptist church, Sulpher Springs, Sunday at 1 o’clock p.m.

Name of Deceased: WOOD, Emily Katherine (COX)
Name of Newspaper: Jacksonville Journal
Date of Obituary:January 30, 1899
Obituary: The funeral over the remains of the late Mrs. Emily WOOD took place from the Union Baptist church, near Pisgah, at 2 p.m. the services were in charge of Elder H. M. CURRY, of Pleasant Plains.
Mrs. Emily WOOD was born near Pisgah, September 27, 1947, and after a long illness of about 13 years, passed to her eternal rest. She was a devout member of the Primitive Baptist church, having joined that denomination in July, 1890, and up to her passing away had been a faithful, devout Christian and when the grim gleaner called she was ready to go. Her life had been a shining example to others for she was a Christian in all that the word implies, and was every ready to counsel others to so live that when the dread summons might come that they, too, could lay the burden down and pass to the home of the soul with the blessed hope of immortality. She was married to George WOOD, of Pisgah, on January 14, 1867. To them were born three sons and one daughter, namely, Walter, James B., Milton M. and Miss Laura B., all of whom survive her.
The pall bearers were all brothers of the deceased husband, James, David, Iven, Milton and Richard and Jas BEEKMAN, the latter being a brother-in- law. Interment was in Union Baptist church cemetery.

Name of Deceased: WOOD, George
Name of Newspaper: Jacksonville Journal
Date of Obituary:?
Obituary: Final Rites for George WOOD Today Services for Aged and Well Known Morgan County Resident to be Held This Afternoon Funeral services for George WOOD, long time resident of Morgan county, whose death occurred Sunday morning at his home 10 miles southeast of the city, will be held this afternoon at the Sulphur Springs Baptist church at 2:30 o’clock. Interment will be in Union Cemetery.
Last December Mr. WOOD was stricken with paralysis from which he never recovered. Since that time, his health has been unsatisfactory, death coming as indicated.
George WOOD was the son of the late Judge Samuel and Martha MOORE WOOD, and was born at the old homestead on December 9, 1842. Of 10 children of this union, only 1 survives, R. S. WOOD who resides three miles north of Jacksonville.
The deceased was married to Miss Emily COX on January 14, 1868. She preceded him in death January 27, 1899. To this union were born 4 children: Walter W., James B.; and Milton M., all of this county and Laura B., who died January 14, 1907. Four grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren also survive. He was united in marriage to Miss Belle BERRYMAN on November 28, 1900, who has ever been his faithful companion. Mr. Wood took a great interest in fine animals being especially a lover of horses and in spite of being handicapped from birth by being a cripple he raised and trained many fine horses, during the years when horses were not only a source of income but one of the main sources of entertainment as well. For 58 years he has lived on his splendid farm where he passed away. He was a charter member of the I. O. O. F. lodge of Franklin, Illinois, in which he took a great interest so long as his health permitted, and for many years has been a devoted member of the primitive Baptist church at Sulphur Springs, Illinois, having united with that institution in June, 1890.

Name of Deceased: WOOD, Laura
Name of Newspaper: Jacksonville Journal
Date of Obituary: January 16, 1907
Obituary: WOOD - Miss Laura WOOD, daughter of George WOOD died at her home near Pisgah, Tuesday morning at 11 o’clock from heart disease, at the age of 31 years. She is survived by 3 brothers, James of Pisgah, Walter of Franklin, and Milton of this city, also her father. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday afternoon at 1 o’clock from the Union Baptist church at Pisgah in charge of Rev. George MURRAY of Winchester.

Name of Deceased: WOOD, Richard
Name of Newspaper: Signs of the Times
Date of Obituary: 24 June 1865
Obituary: Signs of the Times, 1865, Gilbert BEEBE, editor. “ELDER BEEBE:- Please publish the obituaries of my mother and step-father, as they lived to be very old, and had many relatives and acquaintances in several of the states where your paper circulates. My mother’s name was Hessa HODSON. Born and raised in Delaware; had two brothers, John and Joshua, and some half-brothers and sisters by the name of KELLY, I do not know how many. My father’s namewas John CONLEE. He died in Madison Co., Illinois, in 1817. He was a Baptist minister. They lived in Tennessee and Kentucky, in Warren and Barren counties; moved thence to Madison Co., Illinois. After my father’s death, my mother married Richard WOOD about the year 1821. He moved from Virginia to Kentucky, and thence to Illinois. He joined the Baptist church of which my mother was a member in about the year 1822. They raised two families together in peace and harmony. She died in Morgan Co., Illinois, in 1860, in the 88th year of her age. ALSO, My father, Richard WOOD, died at the residence of his son, Samuel WOOD, where they had made their home for several years, June 20, 1865, in about the 85th year of his age. He was a kind step-father to me, and as a member of the Old School Baptists, they were both vigilant in maintaining good order in the churches, and kind and benevolent to all around them, and they enjoyed perpetual and unshaken confidenceof their brethren generally. I shall always feel grateful to my step-brother and sister, Samuel and Martha WOOD, for their kind and tender attention to my mother during her long stay with them. WHITFIELD CONLEE.Orleans, Morgan Co., Ill., June 24, 1865.

Name of Deceased: WOODMANSEE, Mary A. (GIVENS)
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: August 1913
Obituary: Mrs. Mary A. WOODMANSEE was born October 26, 1837, at GIVENS Hill, west of Waverly, and lived there during her early life, excepting two years 1846 and 1847, when her father moved to Springfield.
She received a good training from the Woman’s College in Jacksonville and taught school for eighteen years in twelve different district in Morgan and Sangamon counties.
She married John F. WOODMANSEE on May 7, 1878, and was a good mother to his five motherless children. To them were born two children, one dying in infancy, the other W. A. WOODMANSEE, now living in Memphis, Tennessee.
After the death of her husband she remained in the home about one year, since which time she has made her home with her son, and sister Elizabeth C. GIVENS.
She felt the responsibility of the family until the last. About twelve years ago the wife of W. A. WOODMANSEE died leaving a child which Mrs. WOODMANSEE took to her heart and home and kept her until August 12, 1912. The door of her house as well as her heart was open to all her friends and she was always ready to give her time and service wherever needed.
She was converted when a young woman under the preaching of Rev. NEWMAN at Appalonia and was a faithful Christian until the end.
One brother, Robert S. GIVENS and one sister, Elizabeth C. GIVENS, also one son, William, of Memphis, Tennessee, and four step-children, viz: Mrs. Ella A. MORSE of Los Angeles, California; Robert E. WOODMANSEE of Springfield; Harry W. WOODMANSEE of Carlinville; and Mrs. Fred S. DENNIS of Waverly and a host of relatives and friends are left to mourn her loss, but happy in the thought that the parting is only for a little while when they are to meet again and live together throughout eternity. She passed away August 14 at 10 o’clock p.m. The end came in the same peaceful manner as she lived.
The funeral was held in the First Methodist church in Waverly, Illinois, of which she was a faithful member, August 16, 1913 at 12 o’clock, conducted by the pastor, Rev. R. B. HUBBART.. Interment was in Providence cemetery.
“Jesus I love to give to Thee
The loveliest and the best;
My life in thee Thy life in me,
In Thy blest love to rest.
Whether to live or die
I know not which is best,
To live in Thee is bliss to me.

Name of Deceased: WOODS, Martha AUSTIN (CRISWELL)
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: July 16, 1926
Obituary: Mrs. Martha WOODS, lifelong resident of this county, and a sister of John M. CRISWELL of near Waverly, died in Franklin Monday, after a brief illness. While Mrs. WOODS’ final illness was of short duration, she had been in failing health for some time.
She was born near Nortonville April 11, 1862, a daughter of George and Jane CRISWELL. She was united in marriage with John AUSTIN at the age of 16 years and they were the parents of four daughters. Mr. AUSTIN and three of the daughters preceded Mrs. WOODS in death, Mrs. W. S. SEYMOUR surviving.
In 1880, the decedent was married to Thomas WOODS. Two children were born to this union, one dying in infancy, and Mrs. Burley WRIGHT survives, together with one brother of the deceased, John M. CRISWELL, of Waverly.
Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock at her residence in Franklin, Rev. Z. M. BRUBECK, of the Christian church officiating.

Name of Deceased: WOODS, Sterling
Name of Newspaper: Illinois Courier, Jacksonville, Illinois
Date of Obituary:September 12, 1889
Obituary: Death of Sterling WOODS
Another of Morgan County’s old and respected citizens has gone to his long home. Sterling WOODS was called by the grim messenger, and his career on earth brought to a close last night at 10 o’clock. Two years ago last March he had a severe spell of sickness, lasting several weeks, and when he did recover it was found that his brain was considerably affected by his illness, and later it was found necessary to place him in the central hospital for the insane, and was then released temporarily, but after a time was again placed in the hospital, where he remained until a few days ago, when he was taken to the home of his son, H. C. WOODS on South Main street. Both periods of his detention in the hospital covered some six or eight months, and all through that time he received the utmost care and attention from those in charge, and for all this kind treatment the family feel very grateful, as expressed to the writer by H. C. WOODS. The funeral services are to take place at Franklin this afternoon, the remains being taken there on the 3:25 train, accompanied by relatives and friends. Dr. W. F. SHORT is to conduct the funeral services.
Mr. Woods was born in Caldwell county, Ky., July 10, 1811, and came to Morgan county with his parents in 1829. The year following he was married to Mrs. Elizabeth CLAYTON, and to them have been born nine children, seven of them still living, namely, Wm. C., A. J., Henry C., and S. A. WOODS, and Mrs. Thos. N. ARNOLD, Mrs. Wm. C. ARNOLD and Mrs. Coleman ARBUCKLE. The four sons live in this county, while the three daughters live in Sangamon county.
Mrs. WOODS died some two years ago. He was an earnest and devout member of the M. E. church for over 50 years.As a neighbor and citizen he was well and favorably known throughout the county, while as a husband and father he was loving, kind and considerate, and his children now call him blessed.
Such, in a few words, has been the life of one of Morgan county’s oldest and honored citizens, who has now passed to that “bourne from whence no traveler e’er returns.” Peace to his ashes.

Name of Deceased: WOODS, Walter
Name of Newspaper: Illinois State Journal
Date of Obituary: May 28, 1930
Obituary: Morgan Man Dies After Auto Crash
Jacksonville, May 27 - Walter WOODS 62, died today of injuries received in an automobile accident Saturday night. His chest was injured when he was crushed against the steering wheel of his car. According to statements of his brother, he was going home late Saturday night and the light of his car went out, causing him to crash into a bank. He is thought to have remained in an unconscious condition in the car before he was discovered. He was alone at the time of the accident. Mr. WOODS was the son of the late Mr. & Mrs. George WOODS. He has spent his entire life in this county, having been engaged in farming in the Pisgah neighborhood. He is survived by his wife, 2 sons, Albert, Jerseyville, and George of this city; 1 daughter, Mrs. Earl LUKEMAN; 2 brothers, Milton and James, both of this city.
Funeral services will be held at 2:30 o’clock tomorrow afternoon at the Reynold’s Chapel and burial will be in Pisgah Cemetery.

Name of Deceased: WRIGHT, Elizabeth (OYER)
Name of Newspaper: Waverly Journal
Date of Obituary: January 17, 1908
Obituary: Mrs. Elizabeth O. WRIGHT of Franklin, who underwent an operation at 8:30 o’clock Monday evening at Passavant hospital, passed away shortly after the operation. She had been sick since last Wednesday, and by request of her physician, she was taken to the hospital, and although all were hopeful of her condition, her system was not strong enough to ward off the surgical shock. Mrs. WRIGHT was born in Canton, Ohio, Sept. 11, 1848 and her maiden name was OYER. When 23 years of age she came to Franklin where she had resided since. On May 2, 1871, she was married to James B. WRIGHT of Franklin, who preceded her in death eleven years. Three daughters survive, Mrs. Fred BURCH and Miss Mary WRIGHT of Franklin, and Mrs. A. L. HENDERSON of Jacksonville, also one son, Oyer WRIGHT who lives at home. One sister, Mrs. John BRADSHAW of Rockville, Mo., and two brothers, Frank and William OYER, both of Oyer, Mo. Also survive.

Name of Deceased: WRIGHT, Thomas
Name of Newspaper: Franklin Times
Date of Obituary: September 12, 1888
Obituary: A Long Life and a Historic Name
At the earnest wish of many friends, the following biographical sketch of Uncle Thomas WRIGHT, prepared for his funeral at Franklin last week by Rev. H. M. HAMILL, is given by the COURIER to the general public.
No citizen of Morgan county had a larger following of relatives and friends, and the splendid qualities of the good old man through a long lifetime, most of which has been spent with us, have peculiarly endeared his memory. Dr. W. F. SHORT preached the funeral sermon to a large concourse of people, and the occasion will be long remembered as a touching tribute to the high character and Christian worth of the deceased. The following is the sketch, slightly altered from the original as read by Rev. HAMILL.
The history of the family of deceased runs through the history of our country. Members of it to the fifth generation are present in this house. In the wide extent of the family relationship, the large number of living kin and in the sterling character of the posterity through all its branches, the family history is unique, scarcely paralleled in our knowledge. The head of the family - the patriarch - was James WRIGHT, father of the deceased.
Reaching back as it does to the very beginning of our national life, it may not be inappropriate to speak first of the father, then of the son.
James WRIGHT was born in Culpepper county, Va. About the year 1756. He enlisted at Culpepper C. H. in the army of the Revolution and served gallantly as a soldier during seven years of the memorable struggle. He was at times under the immediate command of General WASHINGTON, crossing the Delaware on the ice in his bare feet. He fought with Mad Anthony WAYNE in the wild night charge at Stony Point, and was at Monmouth, Trenton and other historic fields. He was at the Yorktown surrender and saw Cornwallis give up his sword. He delighted to recall thee stormy days and to live over the battles, especially the day when MUHLENBERG, the old Baptist preacher, rode down the charging lines and led the fray.
At the close of the Revolutionary war he married Francis FINNEY, of Culpepper county, Va., who was a splendid Baptist of the old school, renowned for her piety and her good works. Through the veins of her descendants in a large measure runs her spirit of loyalty to God and to the church.
There were born to this pair, eight sons and four daughters - Thomas, the deceased, being the eleventh child, and now the last of this historic family. The family moved from Virginia to Kentucky about 1802, to Scott county, their home, seven miles from the city of Frankfort. They thence moved to Illinois in 1829, the party consisting of twenty-two souls, including the families of two sons, Reuben and Abner, and three unmarried sons, James, William and Thomas. Their journey to this state was made in two wagons.
They settled on the old GALLAGHER farm, south of Franklin, the father entering 160 acres of land and building the log house more lately occupied by Paddy GALLAGHER. Reuben, Abner and James entered farms on the same section. Here the old veteran lived in peace and died in 1845, between ninety and nine-five years of age. His wife, ten years younger than himself died seven days later and both sleep side by side in our Franklin cemetery. How like a leaf from patriarchal history it reads. Six of the original family of children sleep with them, and today we lay to rest Thomas, the last of the twelve. Three sisters are buried in Kentucky, one brother in Kentucky and one in Missouri.
Thomas, whose body is now before us was born in Scott county, Kentucky in 1806, Feb. 1st, and moved here with the family in 1820. He returned to Kentucky one year in 1831. He was married in 1834 at the age of 28 to Jane BURCH,daughter of Benjamin and Anna BURCH, who had moved here from Hardin Co., Kentucky, in 1827. It was another noble family with much that characterized the best social and religious life of the families of that state. Of all those who were present at that happy wedding 54 years ago, May 21, we know of but three who survive, Mrs. Manda RICE, sister of the bride, and the two known to us familiarly as Aunt Sallie WRIGHT and Aunt Sallie LUTTRELL, two of whom are present today. Squire CYRUS married them such being the custom of these days when preachers were few and far between, the circuit preacher living at Auburn, and making his rounds once in four or six weeks. There was preaching occasionally in the old log church that stood on or near the site of the later brick at the cemetery. The first two years of married life was spent with the father on the farm, the eldest child, Mrs. Fannie GRAVES, being born there. The young couple then settled on the farm now occupied by Jas. B. WRIGHT. They had three sons and four daughters, six of whom are living, and except one are present. In the order of their ages they are as follows: Mrs. Fannie GRAVES, James B. WRIGHT, Mrs. Robert SEYMOUR, Wm. C. WRIGHT, Mrs. A. D. SEVIER, Mrs. ALLBRIGHT, the absent one, now sick at her home in Ray county, Missouri. Shelby, the youngest son, preceded his father to the celestial land, dying in 1879.
The wife and mother died at the home Jan. 26, 1882, after forty-eight years, long and happy years of devotion to husband and children. Those who knew her, with one accord, delight in speaking of her rare Christian worth and loving services as neighbor and friend. She sleeps by the side of her youngest boy in our cemetery. Of the old families among which she moved, most of the original sires and mothers are gone. The CALDWELLS, CLAYTONS, KEPLINGERS and some of the SEYMOURS are still links in the broken chain.
Thomas was in the Black Hawk war as lieutenant in Capt. GIVANS’ Company. Two of the sons were in the war of the Rebellion - James and W. C. Indeed, every war of the nation has representatives from this historic family, and members of it who were soldiers from the Revolution down lie in our Franklin cemetery. Andrew J. WRIGHT and Isaac S. WRIGHT were in the Mexican war; Reuben and Abner were at the battle of Thames when Tippecanoe was killed. One of the pleasant war memories of the Revolutionary sire was his appointment from Virginia to greet the returning Gen. LAFAYETTE and introduce him at the banquet of Gov. JOHNSON, of Virginia.
The closing years of Uncle Thomas’s life were serene and quiet. For six years his home has been with his son, Shelt, but he delighted to go from home to home of his children and very large circle of kin. As an indication of its extent the fifth generation, beginning with James WRIGHT, is represented among us in the great-great-grandchildren, Fred BUFFE and Lena TOLIN - one of Franklin, the other of Girard. Uncle Thomas’s last stay with us was at the home of George BOULARE. His last week was spent at his home in Jacksonville. The Sunday before his sickness was spent in making his accustomed rounds among his nephews, dining with his nephew, W. M. WRIGHT, and then, as was his custom, taking down his oft-read testament for Sabbath reading. The last mark he placed in it was at the ninth chapter of Luke, on the seventh round of reading since the death of his wife. On Friday evening before his death he spent several hours in prayer for his family, his relatives and friends, and declared his great happiness and thankfulness to God. He was free from much pain, was sick only a week and on Monday, 27th, at 3 a.m., he passed peacefully away from earth.
His religious life runs back many years to the days of Rev. Newton CLOUD. CLOUD had a curious dream in which he was impressed that Thomas WRIGHT wanted to join the church. There had been no conversion. An appointment at Rynder’s school house was made, near Uncle Thomas’, and to the surprise of everyone he came forward and asked to be received as a member. His Christian life was unstained through all its years. Friend or foe never once questioned his integrity. He was princely in his hospitality, and his home in earlier days was the favorite stopping place of preachers, and often the place of public worship. Few lives have been so full of gentleness and graciousness and so full of peaceful and happy memories.

Name of Deceased: WRIGHT, William M.
Name of Newspaper: Waverly, Illinois, Wednesday
Date of Obituary: October 25, 1899
Obituary: –was born September 19, 1855, two and one half miles south of Franklin, Ill., and was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin WRIGHT, who were among the early settlers of this end of Morgan county. He was married to Miss Ella M. KENNEDY, of Waverly, January 22, 1880, and took his bride to his home in Franklin. To this union six children were born, who, with the mother, survive him. In 1881 Mr. WRIGHT moved to this city and engaged in the harness making business, and, with the exception of one year spent in Winchester and Barnett, has lived here continuously since. In February, 1898, on account of ill health, he gave up his trade and engaged in the grocery business, but financial reverses and continued poor health compelled him to abandon that business, but not to remain idle, for he again took up his old trade, and only ceased active work when the inroads of disease made it imperative on him to do so. In addition to his family he leaves one brother, James, and one sister, Mrs. Sandy EDMONDSON, both of this city; two half brothers, Charles, of Decatur, Ill., and Benjamin WRIGHT, Keokuk, Iowa, and two half sisters, Mrs. Alice MOSS, and Mrs. Ada MARLANE both of Keokuk, Iowa.
William M. WRIGHTdied at his home in Waverly, Ill., at 3:45 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 21, 1899, aged 44 years, 1 month and 2 days. Funeral services were conducted at the M.E. church at 2:30 p.m. Sunday Oct. 22, the Rev. A. WILLARD, in charge, assisted by Rev. A. S. KAYE, of the Congregational church. Besides the wife, he leaves a family of six children - Roy, Bert, Maude, Ralph, Paul and Kenney, the latter but three years old.
Out of town relatives attending the obsequies were Thos. G. KENNEDY, of Chicago; C. P. MOULTON and wife, of Fort Smith, Ark.; T. H. SMEDLEY and wife, of Mt. Pulaski, Ill., and D. F. WYATT, wife and son, Ernest, of Virden.
Deceased was interred in the East cemetery, with the honors of the I. O. F. of which order he had long been an active member. His home lodge at Waverly was joined by a large delegation from Franklin, where he held his original membership, and by the Daughters of Rebekah and the local lodge, Independent Order of Mutual Aid, with which he was also prominently identified and in which he held a $2,500 life policy.
The attendance at the funeral attested the high esteem in which deceased was held, the large church proving inadequate to accommodate the assemblage of friends. The songs were appropriate and full of consolation for the bereaved, while the flora tributes were profuse and most beautiful.
Mr. WRIGHT had been more or less a sufferer throughout the greater part of his life, and of late years had known little but torture of the most acute description. He was the personification of patience, however, and even the members of his own family were not permitted to fully comprehend his physical suffering, much of it being hidden by a stoicism and desire to shield his loved ones, that were characteristic of the man. Overtaken by financial reverses that affected so many Waverly people in the last year or two, he surrendered the home he had made for his family, in order to effect an honorable settlement with his creditors, and bravely set about providing another home for the wife and children. Though physically unable, he worked incessantly and with feverish haste to make the small house as comfortable as possible before the coming of death, which he knew was inevitable and swiftly approaching. He labored right up to the hour of his final prostration and then expressed deep regret that he could not have held out two weeks longer to complete an addition to the building, upon which he was engaged.
His home life was one of unusually tender ties. In the twenty years of his married life his love of wife grew constantly stronger and his devotion to his children made home the dearest spot on earth for them. Ere passing away he talked long and earnestly with each of them, giving them much good advice and bidding each of them a tender farewell. At the last he told his sorrowing wife how much sunshine and happiness she had brought into his life and assured her that leaving her and the children was all the dread death had for him. His books were in order and he had naught to fear. His last few hours were fraught with such physical agony as few mortals are called upon to endure, but through it all he sunk his own pain from sight and conscious to the last, evinced only solicitude for his loved ones and how they would bear up under the final blow. All heroes are not the product of war. The life of W. M. WRIGHT was a constant exemplication of a heroism almost more than human in its affectionate self-effacement.
A. Friend

Name of Deceased: WILLIAMS, Uel
Name of Newspaper: Jacksonville Daily Journal
Date of Obituary: Saturday, Feb. 14, 1880
Obituary: “City and County”: “The funeral of Uel WILLIAMS, an old citizen of this county, occurred at Morgan City yesterday, at 2 o’clock p.m., Rev. P. N. MINEAR officiating. The attendance was large, and included a number from this city. Mr. WILLIAMS was 70 years of age, and had lived in the county most of his life. The body was interred in the family burying ground, near the old homestead.”

Morgan County Illinois Obituaries – W Surnames

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Categories

Archives