The Santa Ana Daily Register
FORTY-NINER DIES IN CHAIR AT AGE 82
Jefferson Williams, Who Has Lived In Tustin Since 1876, Passes Away
He Came to California With the Gold Hunters In the Early Days
Last night, Jefferson Williams, a Forty-niner and for thirty-two years a resident of Tustin, died while sitting in his chair, where he was found this morning by his nephew, A. C. Williams. Mr. Williams was 82 years of age. When seen last night at 6:30 o'clock by his nephew, Mr. Williams was feeling quite well, though he was in bed at the time. During the night he arose, dressed and was sitting in his chair when death came suddenly. He was found at 6'o'clock this morning, and apparently had been dead several hours.
Jefferson Williams came to California with the gold seekers and for many years he followed mining in various parts of California, Oregon and Idaho. In 1876 he made his home with his brother, Washington Williams, who lived at Tustin and who now lives in Pasadena. For many years he had a bee ranch in Trabuco canyon. He was never married.
The funeral will be held from S. W. Smith and Son's parlors at 2 o'clock on Monday.
Vacaville Reporter
Death of Pioneer
Franklin Williams Passes Away at His Home in Berkeley.
Was a Resident of This Vicinity For Over Forty Years and Charter Member of Christian Church.
With the death at his home in Berkeley late Tuesday night of last week of Franklin Williams, there passed to his final reward a man of such Christian character and gentle qualities as it is seldom the fortune of a community to know. Simple and unpretentious in manner, he was unflinching in his stand for the right, and made his life a living exemplification of his principles. By his sons and those of his early associates who still live he will be greatly missed and long mourned.
Deceased had not been in the best of health for many years, and a couple of months ago suffered a stroke of paralysis from which he never recovered, gradually growing weaker until death ended his suffering.
Franklin Williams was a native of Jackson County, Missouri, where he was born February 22, 1830, being nearly eighty years of age at the time of his death. When work at home on the farm did not require his attention he attended the schools in the vicinity and lived the usual life of a boy of those days. With the first news of the discovery of gold in California in '49, Mr. Williams made the overland trip to the mines, locating in Placer county.
In company with thousands of other miners he went down from Hangtown - as Eldorado was then called - to San Francisco to attend the first celebration of the admission of California into the Union, September 9, 1850. Hotel accommodations were inadequate and party was compelled to sleep on board a steamboat, as were many others. One of the boats blew up at the wharf killing 125 men.
He continued mining until 1852, when he returned to his home by way of Panama. The charm of California had taken hold of him to such an extent that he could not be content in the east and the summer of that year again found him bound for the golden state. The following year he again made the journey to Missouri, where he was united in marriage to Mary Jane Morgan. The young couple arrived in California the same year and Mr. Williams purchased the old Williams place two miles south east of Vacaville - now the property of the Wemple estate - which became his home for more than forty years.
In 1873 Mrs. Williams passed away after a happy married life of twenty years. Five years later he married Catherine Stark, who survives him. In 1894 the farm was disposed of and they removed to a ranch in Tulare county, which was their home until two years ago, when they moved to Berkeley.
Mr. Williams was one of the founders of the Vacaville Christian church, the edifice then being at that time located in Jewett's grove. He ever took great interest in church matters and was a lover of his home.
Besides the widow there are left to mourn his death four sons by his first marriage - Oliver C. Williams of Tulare, Claude C. Williams of Suisun and C. Eugene and Everett M. Williams of Vacaville - the two sons by the later union, Rolla F. and Wirt C. Williams of Berkeley, all of whom were present at the funeral and acted as pallbearers - the final service to a loved father.
The funeral was held Saturday from the Christian church. Rev. Frank E. Boren officiating and the remains were followed to their last resting place by numbers of people who had gathered to pay their last respects to a loved and honored friend and neighbor.
Visalia Daily Times
Receives word of death of father.
O. C. Williams, formerly of this city and now residing at Dinuba, has received word of the death of his father, Franklin Williams at Berkeley.
At the time of his death he was living at 2316 Dwight Way, Berkeley, Alameda County, California.
Grizzly Bear, December 1909, Vol. VI, No. 2 (Whole no. 32), page 29 "Passing of the Pioneer"
Franklin Williams, who crossed the plains in '49 and located in Placer County, passed away at Berkeley recently. He was a native of Missouri, aged 79 years. He attended in San Francisco, the first celebration of California's admission to statehood. A widow and six children survive.
The Fresno Morning Republican: Monday, Nov. 26, 1906; Page 5 Col. 2
Death of M. L. Williams
M. L. Williams, an old time resident of Fresno, dies Saturday night at his home in Modesto where he had lived the last few years. Death was due to a stroke of apoplexy. He was stricken Tuesday and passed away without regaining consciousness. About three years ago he suffered his first visitation from the disease but recovered, apparently completely regaining his strength.
The deceased had lived in Fresno County since 1875, settling here a year after coming to California from his native state of Missouri. He was 72 years, 10 months and 13 days old at the time of his death. He is survived by five children, A. C. Williams, W. J. Williams, L. W. Williams, Mrs. W. A. Linforth and Mrs. Will Scott.
The funeral will take place tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock from the residence of A. C. Williams, No. 122 Yosemite Ave.
San Francisco Call
The sad news of the death of the beloved and venerable Mrs. Mary Lewis, the mother of Mrs. John Clack, was announced last Thursday, New Year's eve, her eighty-fourth birthday. Mrs. Lewis was a woman of fine character, an ernest Christian, of patient, sweet disposition and a sincere friend. Whereever she was she drew around her a large circle of loving friends, who appreciated her noble qualities of heart and mind. Mrs. Lewis was the mother of eight children, some of whom have gone before. She leaves forty-three grandchildren, forty-seven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was a native of Virginia and lived in Headlsburg for a number of years. "The dear old grandma" will be sadly missed.
Paso Robles Press
Daniel S. Lewis, Oldest Native Son, Dies At Home
Daniel Stuart Lewis, one of California's oldest native sons, passed away yesterday morning, March 16, at his home at 1345 Vine Street. Mr. Lewis, who was born in Sonoma County, September 17, 1858, was 91 years of age at his last birthday. He had been in frail health for some time and sank rapidly the past two weeks. Him at his passing.
{Photo}
Mr. Lewis came to the Paso Robles district from the San Joaquin valley when he was 25 years old. He pioneered grain farming on a sheep ranch in the fall of 1883 and raised the first crop of grain in El Pomar and Genesco district in 1884. He ranched six miles east of Paso Robles for 27 years and bought grain and almond land in El Pomar.
In 1912 he and his brother, Will, had the first Ford agency in this district, also the first Dodge and Caterpillar tractor agencies. They established and operated the Lewis Implement company in buildings which they had erected, now occupied by Harris and Son and Joseph G. Moore Co. The buildings are still owned by Mr. Lewis and Mrs. Will Lewis.
They also planted almond acreage west of town. After buying his brother's share, Dan operated it until three years ago when he sold to Pat Hewson.
A director of the Citizens Bank before its merger with the Bank of America, Mr. Lewis still serves on the Board of Directors. He has always been interested in schools and served as a trustee at Linne and later in town for three years.
In 1934 at the age of 76, he was Grand Marshall of the Pioneer Day parade and led the parade again in 1935.
He is the third generation in his family to belong to the Christian Church. He is the only living charter member of the local Christian church which he joined in 1888. He has served continuously as treasurer for the past 28 years.
He was a member of the I.O.O.F. Lodge for many years.
Mr. Lewis married Elizabeth Lowe at Creston. Their children, Verna and Alta, were born on Huntington Ranch.
Two years after the death of his wife, he married her sister, Lucile. Their children, Melba and Elsworth, were born in Paso Robles.
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have lived at the present residence, 1345 Vine Street, since 1909. All of their children received their elementary and high school education in the local schools and all are graduates of accredited colleges.
Mr. Lewis is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lucile Lewis, two daughters and a son, Mrs. Alta Spurrier, of Berkeley, Mrs. Melba Hobson, of Santa Maria, and D. Ellsworth Lewis, of Paso Robles, a sister, Maggie Lewis, of Paso Robles, and seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon, at 3 p.m. from Kuehl Funeral Chapel. Rev. Milo Atkinson, of San Luis Obispo, and Rev. J. P. Martyn, of the First Christian Church will officiate. Interment will be in the Paso Robles District Cemetery.
Paso Robles Press
BUSINESS HALTS IN TRIBUTE TO LATE WILL LEWIS
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Whole City Had Known Pioneer as Man and True Friend
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Laid to Rest in Oddfellows Cemetery Amid Profusion of Flowers
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A very long funeral cortege followed the remains of William Sterling Lewis to their resting place in Oddfellows cemetery yesterday at 10 o'clock. Practically all of the city's prominent persons assembled to pay final tribute to one they had long known as a real man and friend, genuine sorrow was written on the countenances of all.
Will Lewis was a pioneer of this district, had seen the district grow and had aided that growth materially. He came here with his brother, Dan, in 1883, and had engaged in agriculture. For many years latterly Mr. Lewis had also conducted a hardware and implement business in this city, with his father-in-law and brother as associates. He was 60 years old at the time of his death, and had been the husband of Maggie Hardie Lewis for the last 35 years. Mr. Lewis was born in Santa Rosa and passed away in this city Monday last. He had been suffering a lingering illness since last August.
Besides his wife, who is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs Angus M. Hardie of Caycuous, the deceased leaves three sisters, Mrs. Lucy Hull of San Jose, Mrs. Gracie Madden of Visalia, and Mrs. Cora Matthews od Paso Robles, and a brother, Daniel Lewis of this city.
The services were conducted at the Palmer funeral chapel by Rev. Leon D. Bliss, and the pall-bearers were Ellsworth Harrold, C. J. Trussler, R. C. Heaton, C. S. Smith, Ed Cliff and Frank G. Wetzel. Paso Robles Odd Fellows lodge officiated at the cemetery.
It is said the funeral of the one-time city treasurer and assistant manager of the Bank of Italy was one of the largest ever held here, and the floral offerings were profuse.
Paso Robles Press
WOMAN DIES AS RESULT OF AUTO ACCIDENT
Mrs. J. F. Mathews Succumbs to Shock at Her Home Later
As the result of shock, more than injuries received in the automobile accident Sunday afternoon, Mrs. Cora Belle Matthews, wife of J. F. Matthews died at her home here Sunday evening. Funeral services were held yesterday at the Palmer Funeral Chapel, interment taking place at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery.
Mrs. Matthews who had been in poor health for several years, accompanied by her husband and Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Lewis were returning from an afternoon's drive on the Adelaide road. At a point opposite the cemetery Mr. Lewis, who was driving, turned out to pass a car coming up the grade. The outside edge of the road caved under the wheels of the Lewis machine and it careened down the slope, turning completely over. Mrs. Matthews received a slight cut on her temple and a bad bruise over one eye. She was taken to her home by a passing motorist, a Mr. Wilson and Dr. Kelker was called. He pronounced her injures not serious, but the patient was suffering from shock. Mrs. Matthews passed into a coma and died two hours later. At the inquest held Tuesday evening Dr. Kelker testified that she died from causes arising from her physical condition brought on by unconsciousness following the accident.
Mrs. Matthews was well known here, having lived in this vicinity for the last forty years, and was 54 years of age at the time of her death. For many years she lived in the Huer Huero district, moving to Paso Robles with her husband about ten years ago. She is survived by her husband, J. F. Matthews; a sister Mrs. Lucy Hull of San Jose; Mrs. Grace Madden of Fresno; and a brother, D. S. Lewis of this city.
Mrs. Lewis received a fractured left arm and severe bruises. Neither of the men was hurt except for minor bruises.
Memorial Services 2:00 p.m. at the Christian Church of Paso Robles:
Alta Leona Lewis Spurrier Booth, was born on March 14, 1895, just southeast of Paso Robles. The daughter of a pioneer family Daniel & Elizabeth Lewis, her father started the first Ford Dealership and a Farm Implement Store in our area. At the age of 3, she started her schooling, and rode 6 miles to the Linne School on the back of a horse named "Old Rave".
Moving to Paso Robles with her family at the age of 7, she attended a school at 17th & Vine. Having a natural talent for music at an early age, she later sang in the girls quartet at the high school. After graduation in 1913, she moved out of the area and obtained her teaching credentials from San Jose State. She also continued her musical talent in studies from the University of Southern California. Later, she married Howard Allen Spurrier, a former Paso Robles classmate of hers. Howard became a successful representative for the Parker Pen Company. Luring her working life as a music teacher, she taught school in Ojai, and the Jenkins School of Music, in Oakland, California.
While living in the Berkeley area, they raised a daughter by the name of Joan, in which they were especially proud of. As with her mother, Joan also continued formal education and obtained teaching credentials. Living in Berkeley for nearly 40 years, they moved back to Paso Robles after her husbands retirement. After 51 years of marriage, Howard died in 1969. She later married the late Gene Booth, a well-known automobile dealer and one of the founders of Pioneer Day in Paso Robles. Alta can be remembered as a talented pianist & organist, an entertainer of many community functions, and as the 1984 Pioneer Queen for the city of Paso Robles. She enjoyed bridge, gardening, & redecorating. She was a member of the AAUW, and a member of the Christian Church of Paso Robles, since 1906.
Paso Robles Press
Obituaries
MELBA LEWIS HOBSON
Melba Lewis Hobson, 83, died June 20 at a Santa Maria hospital.
She was born Jan. 27, 1904, in Paso Robles, and has lived in Santa Maria since 1943. She was a member of the Pioneer Lewis family of Paso Robles.
Mrs. Hobson graduated from Paso Robles High School. She attended UC Berkeley and Chapman College before graduating from San Francisco State College.
She taught elementary school for 30 years, devoting 17 years in the Santa Maria elementary school district where she taught special education, kindergarten and speech therapy. She was PTA teacher of the year in 1958.
Mrs. Hobson was an active member of the First Christian Church of Santa Maria where she held many offices. She was the first woman to chair the church board of directors.
She was also the past president and board member of the Mental Health Association of Santa Maria until she was 80 years old. Until recently she was president of the Life Learning Institute at Hancock College. She has been a board member since its inception.
Mrs. Hobson was a member of the Order of Eastern Star Mizpah chapter 100, a member of Delta Kappa Gamma and the California Retired Teachers' Association.
She is survived by her son, D. Wade Hobson of Fresno; a daughter, Donna Wilson of Burney, Ca.; a sister, Alta Spurrier Booth of Paso Robles; a brother, Ellsworth Lewis of Paso Robles; six grandchildren and one greatgrandson.
Funeral service is 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at First Christian Church of Santa Maria. Internment will be in Santa Maria cemetery.
Visitation is 5-8 p.m. Monday (today) at Dudley-Hoffman Mortuary in Santa Maria.
Friends, if they so desire, can make contributions to the Mental Health Association of Santa Maria, P.O. Box 104, Santa Maria, Ca. 93456.
Stockton Daily-Evening Recorder
CY MOREING SR. ANSWERS CALL
Death Ends Months of Patient Suffering
Stork Hovers Over Home of His Son as the Final Summons Comes
Cyrus Moreing Sr, the well known contractor, died last evening at his home, 143 West Acacia street, after a lingering illness.
Mr. Moreing had been a sufferer for many months. Last November he was taken to St. Joseph's Home, where he remained, confined to bed until January, when he was removed to Lane's Hospital in San Francisco to undergo an operation.
Soon after the operation it was known that the well known citizen could not recover, and he was brought home to await the end. He bore his suffering cheerfully until death finally came mercifully. During his last hours he apparently rested peacefully and without pain.
Cyrus Moreing Sr. was born in Iowa, December 7, 1942. He came to California in 1862 and located in Stockton. For a number of years he teamed from Stockton over the mountains to Carson City. Later he purchased a ranch near Waterloo, where he farmed for twenty-five years and where his family was born and reared.
On moving from Waterloo into Stockton, Mr. Moreing continued ranching on a large scale in various sections of the county. At the same time he engaged extensively in contracting. The decedent was the head of the firm Cyrus Moreing & Sons and held many of the largest contracts for construction work in San Joaquin's bond highways.
A few years ago Mr. Moreing was elected councilman from the Second Ward on the Democratic ticket, a position which he held with honor and credit. Before the expiration of his four-year term, he resigned from office in order that he might become a bidder on street contract work. Mr. Moreing was a life long Democrat and stood high in the councils of his party.
Mrs. Moreing is survived by the following children: Lewis Moreing of Sacramento, who has engaged in large contract work in Oregon recently; Charles Moreing, an island farmer; Cyrus and Will Moreing, who were engaged with him in the contracting business; Helen Moreing of Stockton and Dave Moreing of Vancouver. Dave MOreing has been summoned to Stockton and is expected to arrive tomorrow evening.
There was an unusual circumstance in connection with the death of Mr. Moreing. While death hung over the home of the father on Acacia street, the stork loitered near the home of his son, Will Moreing, at 232 West Vine Street. Mr. Moreing died last evening at 8:30 o'clock. This morning at 4 o'clock a little girl was born to the wife of Will Moreing. The latter's family now consists of two boys and two girls.
Mr. Moreing was a man who always manifested the keenest interest in the doings of his boys, of whom he was justly proud. The affection between father and sons was a matter of note.
The funeral will be held Saturday morning from the late residence on Acacia street. Stockton Lodge, No. 218, B.P.O.E., of which the deceased was a member, will have charge of the services, both at the home and at the grave. The officers and members will meet at 9 o'clock at their lodge room for the purpose of attending the funeral of the body.
Stockton Daily-Evening Recorder
Wednesday, September 13, 1911
DIED-
Stockton Daily-Evening Recorder
MANY ATTEND THE MOREING FUNERAL
Scores of friends of the late Cy Moreing, Sr. paid final respect to his memory today. The funeral was held at 10 o'clock from the Moreing residence, 143 W. Acacia street. the services at the house were conducted by the Rev. R. H. Sink, paster of the First Congregational church. Scared selections were rendered by a quartet.
The officers of Stockton Lodge of Elks, No. 218, of which the deceased was a member, officiated at Rural cemetery. The pallbearers were R. B. Oullahan, A. C. Oullahan, John R. Wilson, Oscar Wright, Arthur Wright and C. L. Neumiller.
There was an unusually large number of floral pieces. The remains were placed in the vault.
Stockton Daily Evening Record
Died - MOERING - In Stockton, September 8, 1924, Cyrus Moreing, beloved husband of Maude Elizabeth Moreing, loving father of Maude Elizabeth, brother of Lewis and Charles Moreing of Sacramento; William Moreing of Stockton; David Moreing of Detroit and Helen Kirkpatrick of Porterville, Calif., a native of California, aged 44 years.
(The funeral will take place Wednesday, September 10, 1924, at 3 p.m. from the family residence, 252 West Vine street. Interment at Rural Cemetery. Friends and acquaintances are invited to attend. DeYoung & Conklin in charge.)
Stockton Daily Evening Record
CYRUS MOREING FUNERAL LARGELY ATTENDED TODAY
All that was mortal of Cyrus Moreing, beloved Stocktonian and known widely throughout the west in baseball and business circles, was laid to rest this afternoon in Rural cemetery, following services at the residence at 252 West Vine street. Rev. R. M. Skinner conducted the services at the home and at the grave the officers of Stockton Lodge of Elks rendered their ritualistic service A great outpouring of sorrowing friends paid affectionate tribute to the memory of the deceased. Many out of town friends attended the services.
A vast wealth of floral offerings, probably the greatest display of its kind seen in San Joaquin county in years, testified to the esteem in which the deceased was held. Notable among many of the elaborate offerings were a floral cup emblematic of Cyrus Moreing's pennant winning baseball days, and an arm chair sent by the Boy Scouts for whom the deceased had done so much and to whom he was always a sincere friend.
The singers at the funeral were Mrs. Florence Waite, Mrs. M. P. Shaughnessy, Carroll Kirkman and Theo Thomas.
The honorary pallbearers were C. W. Hawks, Henry Green, A. H. Patterson, Carlton C. Case, John Triolo and John Raggio. The active pallbearers were: Harry T. Fee, Harry Dunlap, George Howell, C. R. Pearson, Floyd Kenyon and Thomas H. Lake.
Courier-Free Press
Mrs. Nettie Woodfill Passes at Kennett
Kennett, October 30 - Mrs. Nettie L. Woodfill, wife of Charles L. Woodfill, who has been ill ten days with pneumonia, passed away at 4 o'clock Wednesday morning .
Mrs. Woodfill was about fourty-five years of ageand was born in Shasta county. For many years she lived in Redding.
Besides her husband, C. D. Woodfill, she is survived by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. P. K. W. Lewis of Stockton. There are several brothers and sisters. Guy Lewis, brakeman for the Sounthern Pacific company lives in Dunsmuir.
The remains were removed to Redding for burial by Houston Undertaking company.
Fresno Morning Republician
PIONEER PASSES TO GREAT BEYOND
Caleb Bailey Dies at Advanced Age at Home in Mountains
Caleb Bailey one of the oldest pioneers of Fresno county and one who was identified with the early history of the state, crossing the plains in an ox team and establishing himself at the Toll House In the early 70's died yesterday his home at Humphrey's station where he conducted a general merchandise store. Bailey is reported to be about 75 years of age. He had made his home at Humphrey's station for the last 15 years.
Bailey in his early days was a hunter and trapper in the Sierra Nevada mountains and because of his knowledge of the shortest paths to different resorts he became one of the best known mountaineers in his district. Bailey for many years was postmaster at Toll House and was one of the leading Democratics in his district. Bailey for many years was the Democratic delegate from his district and a convention without Bailey was a rare occasion.
Bailey has married children living near Fresno The funeral will be held in the mountains.
Fresno Hearld
MOUNTAIN PIONEER DIES AT RESIDENCE
Caleb Bailey Among First Settlers in Toll House District
Caleb Bailey, of Toll House, one of the earliest settlers in Fresno county died yesterday his home at Humphrey's station. He was about 75 years of age and came to this county in a few years after the Civil war. He crossed the plains in an ox cart and was among the first to take up a home in the foothills.
No funeral arrangements have yet been made, but it has been decided that the services will be held at the mountain home and that interment will be held there. Bailey has several children living in the county.
Bailey was for many years Democratic delegate from his district and was always on hand at the conventions. He was postmaster at Toll House for several years. The pioneer came to the country when game was plentiful in the mountains and is well known as a hunter and trapper.
The Fresno Morning Republican; 3 February 1926 Page 16, Col. 3
Williams - In Oakland, California, February 2, 1926, A. C. Williams, a native of California. He is survived by his wife and one dauaghter; two brothers, L. C. and W. J. and two sisters, Mrs. W. A. Linforth and Mrs. Will Scott.
He resided at 436 East 12th Street, Oakland, California for three years prior to his death.
Oakland Tribune, 1 February 1926
WILLIAMS-In Oakland, Feb. 1, 1926, Alonzo C., beloved husband of Martha T.
Williams, loving father of Elizabeth Langdon and Catherine Malcolm; a native
of California, aged 68 years. Friends are respectfully invited to attend the
funeral from the parlors of Andker and Petersen, 1445 5th Ave., cor. East 15th
St., Tuesday, Feb. 2, 1926, at 2 o'clock. Interment, Fresno.
The Fresno Bee; 21 September 1931
In Fresno City, September 20, 1931, Wade J. Williams, beloved husband of Alice F. Williams, loving father of Nadia Williams of Tranquility, Bradley Williams of Los Angeles, and Wade J. Williams, Jr., of Berkeley; loving brother of Lou Williams of Cottonwood, Mrs. Alice Lynforth and Mrs Maude Scott of SanFrancisco; grandfather of Jackson J. and Wade J. Williams III, a native of California.
The Fresno Expositor
Died - In Fresno, June 24, Clara L., beloved wife of Walter D. Grady, aged 25 years, 8 months and 10 days.
The Fresno Bee
W. D. GRADY, ONCE FRESNO DISTRICT ATTORNEY DIES
Pioneer Lawyer of County Passes at Home in Coalinga
Coalinga, Fresno Co. 10/12 - W. D. Grady, a pioneer Fresno County attorney also a former District Attorney of this county died here last night from a general breakdown due to his advanced years. He was 73 years old.
Grady served as District Attorney in Fresno early in the eighties and after that had an extensive law practice in that city up until 1904 when he moved to San Francisco to continue his practice until he went to Coalinga.
Grady had practiced his profession here until failing health caused him to abandon practice about six months ago.
Funeral arrangements had not been perfected today.
Surviving the deceased are a son, Walter Grady of Coalinga, a daughter in San Francisco and a brother in Fresno.
The Fresno Morning Republican
Summoned: Attorney W. D. Grady, prominent in pioneer history of Fresno County, who died yesterday at Coalinga.
(Photograph)
WALTER GRADY, ONCE DISTRICT ATTORNEY, DIES
Resided in Coalinga for years; Funeral not yet set.
Walter D. Grady, pioneer Fresno county attorney, dies at 4 o'clock yesterday morning at the home of his son, Walter Grady, in Coalinga.
Grady, who was a former district attorney of this county, was a native of Tennessee. He was born August 25, 1852.
In the early eighties he was elected district attorney and later practiced law in this city with H. H. Welch and H. Z. Austin. In 1904 he began practicing in San Francisco, but later returned to Fresno County, settling in Coalinga.
Beacuse of failing health, Grady was forced to give up his practice about six months ago, his death occuring yesterday from a breakdown attributed to his advancing years.
Grady atained a wide reputation as an able attorney and at one time proved before a court and jury that a man had bitten his own ear off. He was admitted to practice law before any attorney practicing law in Fresno county.
He was survived by a son, Walter Grady, a brother, A. M. Grady of Fresno and a daughter in San Francisco. Funeral arrangements have not yet been completed.
Henry Hawson, president of the Fresno County Bar Association, announced yesterday that the organization will meet Monday at 9:30 a.m. in department one of the superior court to take appropriate action in memory of the attorney.
Hawson announced that on Monday he will appoint a committee to draft a resolution to Grady's memory, which will be spread on the minutes of the superior court and the bar association.
Fresno Bee-Fresno Republican
LOCKNANE - In Fresno, December 15th, Surelda Locknane, aged 92 years, native of Missouri; beloved mother of E. H. Locknane of Dinuba; Mrs. W. J. Ross of Los Angeles; and Mrs. C. M. McAllister of Fresno. Funeral service will be held in the chapel of the Lisle Funeral Home, L and Calaveras Streets, Saturday, December 17th at 10:30 a.m. Interment Smith Mountain Cemetery.
Oakland Tribune
Williams - In Oakland, May 22, 1939, Camillus, beloved husband of the late Rennie Williams, loving father of Camillus Williams, Jr., devoted grandfather of Camillus III and James M. Williams, brother of Wirt C. Williams of Dinuba. (Vacaville papers please copy)
Friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral services Tuesday, May 24, at 2:30 p.m. at Piedmont Avenue. Remains at the Mission Chapel of Freeman & Cox-Roach & Kenney, Fruitvale Avenue at East 19th Street.
San Francisco Examiner
LINFORTH- In the city, April 4, 1951, Paul S. Linforth, beloved husband of Ada May Linforth, son of the late Walter A. and Alice G. Linforth. Friends are invited to attend funeral services at 12 noon, Friday, April 6, at Grays, Divisadero Street at Post.
San Francisco Examiner
LINFORTH- In the city, May 8, 1969, Ada May Linforth, beloved wife of the late Paul S. Linforth, loving sister of A. W. Larter of Toronto, Canada and Hazel Larter of San Francisco. A native of Toronto, Canada.
Private funeral services were held Saturday, May 10th at N. Gray & Co., Divisadero Street at Post. Inurnment Cypress Lawn Memorial Park.
Oakland Tribune
WALTER LINFORTH DIES IN BERKELEY
BERKELEY, Nov. 14.- Walter A. Linforth, former hardware merchant of Fresno and
son of the late James Linforth, pioneer San Franciscan, died this morning at
his home, 1539 Arch street, following an illness of two years. Linforth was
61 years of age and had spent practically all of his life in California,
coming from Salt Lake City when an infant. After engaging in business in
Fresno for many years, Linforth retired and went to Los Angeles, coming to
Berkeley six months ago. He was a brother of E.W. Linforth, well-known
Berkeley business man of 2740 Derby street, and an uncle of Professor Ivan
Linforth of the University of California faculty. Surviving are a widow, Mrs.
Alice Williams Linforth; a son, Paul S. Linforth of San Francisco, and a
sister, Miss Caroline Linforth of Berkeley. Funeral services will be
conducted at 3 o'clock Monday from local undertaking parlors.
San Francisco Call Co. 12-15, 1918, 47/1 Death
The Pasadena Star
Obituary - Mrs. Elizabeth M. Williams
Mrs. Elizabeth M. Williams died early this morning at her residence, 170 North Mentor. She was 73 years of age and had lived in California 56 years, eight years of which were passed in Pasadena. She is survived by three daughters and one son. The daughters are Miss Harriet Williams, who was with her mother during her illness; Mrs. J. A. Copeland, and Mrs. W. L. Gaines of Monrovia. The son is A. C. Williams of Santa Ana. The funeral will be held from the residence at 1 p.m. Rev. McKnight, pastor of the Christian Church will officiate. Burial will be at Mountain View Cemetery.
Los Angeles Times, 7 May 1958, Part I, Page 17, Col. 6
Copeland, Lulu, bloved mother of Frances Boem and Elizabeth Copeland. Services Saturday, 11 a.m. at Edwards Brothers Colonial Mortuary. Interment Mountain View Cemetery.
OBITUARY FOR JAMES ROE ROGERS
"James Roe Rogers, aged 83 years, died at his country home in Yosemite Colony last evening at 7:10 o'clock, the end coming while he was surrounded by his family. The deceased had not been ill with disease, but had been gradually sinking for some weeks, and death came to him softly and peacefully, as though he were going to sleep.
"James Roe Rogers was born in Kentucky November 14, 1826, and came to California in 1850. He returned to Kentucky in 1851, but came again to the Golden State, settling in Sacramento in 1852. In 1854 he was married to Miss Williams, and to this union were born two sons and two daughters. The two sons, C.P. Rogers of Arizona and E. M. Rogers of San Jose, survive him, the two daughters having died some time ago. Mrs. Rogers died in 1865. Mr. Rogers married his second wife, who was Mrs. Laura Church of Solano County, in 1866, and to this union were born two daughters. One of the daughters, Mrs. Celia Pettis, died in May, 1908 at the home of her father in Yosemite Colony. The other daughter, Mrs. Bertie A. Hatch, survives, and is a resident of Bradley Colony No. 2, near Merced. Mrs. Rogers also survives the deceased.
"In 1854 Mr. Rogers moved from Sacramento to Vacaville and for years was engaged in the grain and stock business, later engaging in the fruit business, which he continued until 1879, when he removed to Merced and purchased a place in Yosemite Colony, where he has resided ever since, building up one of the prettiest country homes in Merced County. The handsome residence is surrounded by a 15acre grove of fig trees.
"During his life, James Roe Rogers was a consistent and active member of the Christian church. Since coming to Merced, Mr. Rogers attended the Cumberland Presbyterian church, there being no church of his denomination here. He was also a member of the Masonic fraternity, and lived the life of a true Christian and Mason. His was a most generous nature and his home and table were always open to the stranger in need, who was never turned away empty-handed. Mr. Rogers was one of those men who possessed to a marked degree the hospitable western spirit of the early days, and his friends are numbered in the hundreds.
"The funeral will be held at the Cumberland Presbyterian church tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon at 2 o'clock and will be under the auspices of the local lodge of Masons. Rev. James Miles Webb will preach the sermon. Interment will be in the Masonic cemetery. Members of the Masonic fraternity are requested to meet at their hall at 1:30 o'clock and march to the church in a body. All friends of the family are invited to attend the services at the church and at the grave.
"By the death of Mr. Rogers, Merced County has lost one of its best citizens, the members of the family a beloved husband and father and his friends a good and true neighbor."
HIRAM LEWIS
One of the oldest settlers has passed to his rest.
At the ripe age of 82 years, Hiram Lewis, one of the pioneers of Sierra Valley, passed away after a lingering illness of some months.
Mr. Lewis was born in Franklin county Missouri, Dec. 5th 1820, and was the only son of John Stewart and Jane Lewis, there being four half brothers and three half sisters in the family, his mother dying when he was 3 months old. At an early age he removed to Jackson County, Missouri, where he grew to manhood.
In 1844 he was married at Pleasant Hill, Cass county, Missouri, to Sarah Farmer, fifth daughter of John Farmer of that place. After his marriage he resided at Pleasant Hill until 1850. In the meantime in 1849 he became a member of the Baptist Church. In 1854, he with the surviving members of the family and two sisters of Mrs. Lewis crossed the plains by ox team to California arriving in October in the Santa Clara Valley, where they resided one year, then removed to Healdsburg where they resided six years, during which time he was one of the organizers and builders of the Baptist church in Healdsburg.
In 1861 he removed to Vacaville, living there two years, moving to Sierra Valley in the spring of 1868 and bought the pre-emption right to the land on which he resided to his death. Here also he helped to organize and build the Baptist church of Loyalton of which he was a deacon.
The deceased leaves to mourn his loss a devoted wife, two daughters and three sons - Mrs. Linnie Langdon, Mrs. Nannie Weston, William S., Horace E. and Richard H. Lewis, all of whom were with him to cheer his last hours. A third daughter, Mary, wife of C. W. Rees, died November 1, 1882. Of Mr. Lewis' own family, two sisters, Mrs. Celia Clack of Healdsburg and Mrs. Annie Peters of Stockton, and a brother, Isaac Lewis survive him.
Hiram Lewis had been engaged in farming and stockraising all his life and was one of those sturdy rugged natures, the product of pioneer days, a man of more than ordinary intelligence, cheerful, and industrious, generous to a fault, satisfied to fill well the position for which he fitted, devoting himself to his own affairs and to his family. As to how well that work was done his well tilled acres and the family of representative men and women he has left to this community bear ample evidence of his sterling worth - living reminders of a well spent life.
The loss to the community is one that will be keenly felt, as the passing of a comrade from the olden times of out valley and the ending of a life of usefulness that cannot be fully appreciated until it is past.
The sorrowing family has the heartfelt sympathy of the whole community in their bereavement and known to us all we feel to have in a measure a share of their sorrow.
The funeral took place from the M. E. church last Wednesday afternoon, Rev. Driver of Reno conducting the ceremony. Burial at the Loyalton cemetery.
OBITUARY
Died November 1, 1882, at The Dalles, Oregon of bone erysipelas - after an illness of ten days - Mrs. Mary A. Rees, wife of Rev. C. W. Rees.
Sister Rees was born November 21, 1844 in Cass County, Missouri. When nine years old she came to California with her parents - Deacon H. Lewis and wife. At the age of eleven years she joined the Baptist Church at Healdsburg, Ca. She was educated at the Healdsburg Academy, and has left a valuable medal and Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, which were given as prizes to the best scholars in the school. On November 21, 1860, she married to Rev. C. W. Rees, then pastor of the Baptist Church in Petaluma, CA. In 1861 she removed with her husband to the State of Nevada, where he preached the first Baptist sermon in Virginia City, Carson City, Dayton, Silver City and Fort Churchill. In 1862 she came with the family to Gazalton, Cal., and while there her husband was engaged for a number of years in missionary and pastoral work for the Sacramento and Eastern Associations.
In 1866 she came to Eugene City, Oregon, where her husband was pastor of the Baptist Church, and in 1869 to The Dalles, where she remained till her spirit was called to the Angel land. Wherever she has lived testimony will be found to her faithful Christian life and labors. In intellect she was far above the average - she read character intuitively, was a safe counselor, her spirit always kind and genial, a Christian leader wherever she lived. She possessed a beautiful, strong musical voice and but few were her equals in singing the songs of Zion. She was a kind wife and loving mother, a devoted Christian from the age of eleven till the day of her death, and no sacrifice was too great for her to make for the cause of Christ. And her husband can justify, after living with her for near twenty-two years. She was always ready to do her duty, and neve opposed him in what seemed to be his duty, although this often took him from home months at a time.
This trait of character was exhibited during her last sickness. Her husband had been absent near three months on mission work; had come home to spend a few days and attend the Baptist Convention, soon to meet at McMinnville. The morning her husband started to the Convention, her face was much swollen and he said to her, "I fear you are going to be sick, I think I had better not go." She said "you are all ready now, go on and if I get worse I will telegraph you." The telegram came and the death in a few days. During her sickness she said to those around her "I am not afraid to die." At another time she said "O! don't you hear that beautiful music. O! do hear that beautiful music." And then blended her voice in song for some time with this heavenly anthem, but the only word those around her could understand was Hallelujah! Indicating this word in common to earth and Heaven. On the third instant she was buried from the Baptist Church after an eloquent sermon had been preached by Rev. John A. Gray, of Portland, to a large and tearful congregation.
To mourn her departure she leaves a husband and eight children, the oldest just passed twenty-one, and the youngest two years old next March, also a father and mother and three brothers and two sisters in California. She "rests" from her work and her labors do ......... her." Ere this she has seen Jesus in glory - clasped hands with the redeemed - chimed in her voice with the great rolling, swelling ....... of Heaven and entered the bliss of an eternity of joy and glory.
Rev. Cyrus William Rees, A. M.
The following sketch of the late Rev. C. W. Rees will be of interest to that large proportion of our readers who personally knew him.
He was born in Guernsey county, Ohio, Jan. 2, 1828; consequently was sixty years at his death. His father was a Baptist minister, and so were two of his brothers. Deceased was converted at the age of eighteen and baptized by his father at Delhi, Indiana. He studied at Franklin and Kalamazoo colleges, graduating at the later school in 1855. He offered himself as a foreign missionary and was accepted by the board at Boston, but a debt of $60,000 prevented the Union from sending him. In the same year he left school he settled as pastor of the churches of Mt. Clemens and Macomb, Michigan. In 1856 he removed to Fort Wayne. Losing his voice he went from that place to Texas; thence, in 1859, to California where he regained his voice and settled at Petaluma. Both here and at Fort Wayne he built new church houses. In 1861 he removed to Nevada and is said to have been the first Baptist preacher in Carson, Virginia City, Silver City, Dayton and Fort Churchill, and both in Nevada and California he organized many new churches.
In 1873, he organized the Eastern Baptist Association, partly in Oregon and partly in California. He removed to Oregon in 1876 since which time he has been pastor at Eugene City, The Dalles, Forest Grove and Hillsboro - organizing the church at the last named place. A year ago last fall he went to Roslyn and Ellensburg, W. T., where he organized churches, built a house of worship at the former place, secured lots for one at the latter place, and also organized a church at Nanum. Some two months before his death, he contacted a cold which resulted in illness from which he never recovered. As previously announced he died in Roslyn on Saturday morning, June 10th, at two o'clock. His faith was strong and his hope bright.
He leaves a family of eight children - five of them grown, a girl probably thirteen years of age and two boys still younger.
Sacramento Bee
Woman Born in 1852 to Pioneer Parents Dies in Home in Davis
DAVIS (Yolo Co.), March 2 -- Mrs. Malinda Lewis Sawin, 92, died yesterday in the home of her daughter in law, Mrs. Emma A. Langdon, 643 F Street, Davis.
Mrs. Sawin was the widow of Rev. Alphus G. Sawin, who died in 1927 and was the daughter of Hiram and Sarah Lewis who crossed the plains in 1854 and who lived in Healdsburg, Vacaville and in the Sierra Valley. Mrs. Sawin also lived in Modoc County for some time and after the death of her husband went to Oakland and later to Davis.
The survivors are a son, Joel H. Langdon of Alvardo; three grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Funeral services have been arranged by the McNary Funeral Home of Woodland and will be held in the Oak Hill Cemetery in San Jose at 1:30 p.m. Saturday. Mrs. Sawin will be buried beside the body of her husband.
Mrs. Langdon Answers Call
One of the Valley's Oldest Residents Buried Sunday from Church She Helped to Establish
Another of the pioneer residents of Sierra Valley was lost to the community in the passing Friday of Mrs. William E. Langdon at her home here in Loyalton. Death came following an extended illness. Funeral services were held at the Community Church Sunday afternoon, Rev. Snyder officiating, while a choir of women's voices rendered songs dear to the heart of the departed lady. Internment was made in the family lot at the Loyalton cemetery.
Mrs. Langdon, a native daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. Cyrus Rees, was born in this valley, October 11, 1869 and spent most of her life in this vicinity. After completing public schoolwork she attended and graduated from the McMinnville college, McMinnville, Oregon. She was united in marriage to Will Marchbank when a young woman and to this union two children were born, Mrs. Etta Dory, of Quincy and Charles M. Marchbank, of Loyalton. The husband passed away while the children were small. In 1984 she was married to William E. Langdon, the children of this union being Mrs. Beryl Cardinal, and Marjorie Hartwell, of Loyalton, and Norris Langdon, of Battle Mountain, Nevada.
The deceased lady, in her younger days, was an active working in the community and much good was accomplished through her efforts. She, with other members of the Rees family, were instrumental in founding the Baptist church here, and she held a charter membership in the organization. For a good many years she directed the choir in the church and took part in musical events of the community. Her activities cease only ten years ago, when failing health forced her to give up these pleasures. Late years of her life were devoted to her family and home. She is survived by the husband, William E. Langdon; two sisters, Mrs. Sadie Bybee, of Loyalton and Etta Bybee of Sacramento; three brothers, Wm. E. Rees of Orville; Fred Rees, of Oak Park, and Jesse Rees of Portola; the five children named above; five grandchildren and three great grand children.
The sympathy of the people of the community is extended the bereaved family.
Last Rites Held for Jess S. Rees
Friends from many parts of California and Nevada filled the Portola Community Church Sunday to pay final tribute to Jesse Spurgeon Rees, one-time Alaska sourdough, former rancher, banker and newspaper publisher.
Mr. Rees died last Thursday at the age of 84.
He was a native of Eugene, Ore. But went to Loyalton in 1885 and had made his home there and in Portola for many years. Orphaned at the age of 8, he was raised by his grandparents in Loyalton.
As a youth he went to Alaska and joined the gold rush, returning to San Francisco to attend business college, his only formal education.
In 1900 he and Alice Wing were married in San Francisco and went to Loyalton to live. They were the parents of two boys, Donald, who was a medical student at the time of his death in 1920, and Dr. Kenneth Rees of Portola, who survived him.
After starting the first newspaper in Sierra Valley and the first bank in Loyalton, he disposed of his interests and moved to Goldfield, where, with an additional outlet in Tonapah, he engaged in the retail lumber business.
Later he ranched in Mexico, operated a blueprint office in Los Angeles and a ranch and general merchandise store in Kern County.
In 1915 he went into the cattle business in Modoc county and in 1918 returned to the ranch upon which he was raised in Sierra valley.
After about 10 years of ranch life he came to Portola to live and assist with the funeral business his wife had established.
In 1950 the mortuary was sold and he retired, but not for long.
He became licensed as a financial advisor and was the representative of the largest investment firm in California, a position he held until his death.
Friday Evening, 17 April 1908
Page 8, Col. 1
Vol.27, No. 43
Vacaville, Solano County
22 Oct. 1909
Page 1, Col. 5
Visalia, Tulare County
No. 48, Saturday, 15 Oct. 1909
Page 1, Col. 1
Old Time Resident of Fresno passes away in Modesto of Apoplexy.
10 January 1892
Page 2, Col. 6
17 March 1950
Page 1, Col. 3
11 March 1926
Page 1, Col. 5
18 April 1927
Page 1, Col. 4
22 June 1987
September 13, 1911
Page 5, Col. 1
Page 5, Col. 6
MOREING- In this city, September 12, 1914, Cyrus Moreing the father of Charles, Cyrus, Jr., Will and Helen Moreing of this city, Lewis Moreing of Sacramento, Dave Moreing of Vancouver, Washington, brother of Mrs. T. F. Lewis of Omaha, Neb; Mrs. George Healey of Dubuque, Iowa and Mrs. T. J. Stephens of Stockton, a native of Iowa, aged 68 years, 9 months and 6 days. (The funeral will take place Saturday September 16, 1911, from the family residence, 143 West Acacia Street. Interment in Rural cemetery. Friends and acquaintances are invited to attend.)
Saturday, September 16, 1911
Page 3, Col. 5
Tuesday, 9 September 1924
Page 14, Col. 1
Wednesday, 10 September 1924
Page 2, Col. 3
Wednesday Afternoon
October 30, 1918
Page 4, Col. 4
Monday, 12 September 1912
Page 12, Col. 4
Monday Evening
9 September 1912
Page 10, Col. 3
2 July 1884
12 October 1923
Vol. 2, Page 1, Col. 4
13 October 1923
Sec. 2, Page 1, Col. 3
16 December 1932
Page 10-B, Col. 7
Page C23, Col. 8
Monday, 23 May 1938
5 April 1951
Page 17, Col. 6
10 May 1969
Sec. B, Page 11, Col. 5
15 November 1918
Thursday, 8 January 1914
Page 2, Col. 6
PAGE 4, 18 DEC. 1909 ISSUE OF MERCED EVENING SUN
Prominent Citizen
Passes to His Rest
C. 1998