Taylor County, Iowa obituaries
Pat O'Dell - genpat@netins.net

[101] Smith, Marian

Funeral services for Marian Smith, age 96, of Lenox, formerly of Reinbeck, Iowa, who died
Friday, October 12, 2007 at Valparaiso, Indiana will be held Wednesday, October 17, 2007 at
10:30 a.m. at the Lenox United Methodist Church. Visitation with the family was held 7-8 p.m.,
Tuesday at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox, with an Eastern Star Service to be held at 7:00.
Visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m. Thursday at United Methodist Church in Reinbeck, Iowa with
graveside services and interment 3:00 p.m. at Reinbeck, Cemetery, Reinbeck, Iowa. Memorials
may be given in Marian's name. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at
www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie
Funeral Home of Lenox.

[102] Smith, Hazel Ruth Miller -         Hazel Ruth Miller Smith was born September 6, 1916 to Thomas Jefferson Miler and Olive Edna Hoffman ;Miller on a farm East of Blockton, Iowa and passed away Sunday, November 12, 2006 in the Bedford Nursing Home & Rehab at the age of 90 years.        

Hazel graduated from Redding High school in Redding Iowa.

Hazel and Orlan Ray Smith were united in marriage on January 22, 1939 in Mount Ayr, Iowa. Hazel and Ray were devoted to each other and to their faith in Jesus. Her faith was important to her and Christianity was an important part of her life.

Hazel lost her sight as a young woman. Her loss of sight never affected her independence. She enjoyed cooking and baking, especially her famous homemade bread. To celebrate her birthday, she always wanted pumpkin pie without whipped cream. She will be remembered for her sense of humor and kind smile.        

Hazel is survived by her sister Mary Ogle of Bedford, Iowa; nieces, nephews and many other relatives and friends.        

Preceding her in death are her parents; husband; brothers Duane Miller and Robert Miller; and sister Ada Mae Moon.

[103] Smith, Marvin -  Graveside Services for Marvin Smith, age 83 of Bedford who died Friday, June 17, 2005 at Ringgold County Hospital in Mt. Ayr were held Tuesday, June 21, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Interment was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be given in Marvin's name. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Marvin Oren Smith was born August 13, 1921, in Siam, Iowa the son of William Steven Smith and Blanche Laverna Miller. He grew up attending country schools. When he was a young man Marvin's family moved to Bedford where he graduated High School in 1940, Vice President of his class. After graduation he went to work for Cudahay Packing in Bedford until 1958 when they closed.

On March 11, 1942 Marvin was united in marriage to Martha Safely. One child was born to bless this union, Ed. After Cudahay Packing closed Marvin went to work for Lucas Feeds until the plant closed and he retired in 1984. Martha and Marvin continued to live in Bedford. Martha passed away in January, 2002.
He was a lifetime member of the Taylor Masonic Lodge #156 and a member of the Bedford United Methodist Church. Marvin was a kind hearted man who enjoyed meeting people and visiting. He enjoyed cars, driving GM products, with Oldsmobile being his brand of choice. Almost all of Marvin's cars were black, with the exception of his 1956 Olds 98 Holiday Coupe, which was metallic pink! He enjoyed dickering and trading for cars on a regular basis.
Left to cherish Marvin's memory are his son, Ed Smith and wife Susan of Madrid, Iowa and sister-in-law, Nellie Smith of Bedford.
Preceding Marvin in death are his parents, William and Blanche, wife Martha in 2002, sister Pauline Hooper, brothers, Delmar Smith and Kenneth Smith.
May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Marvin's passing.

[104] South, Robert Burnell was born October 6, 1934 to Burnell and Doris (Jarvis) South in Maloy, Iowa. He was the eldest of four, being a brother to Larry, Jerry and Jack.

Bob married Marlene Molgaard in 1956. They were married for 25 years and to this union were born 6 children; daughter Gayal Groeneweg, and sons Gregg, Scott, Mike, Doug, and Tim. Bobby met Beverly Noble in Chariton, Iowa in 1988 and they enjoyed 18 years together.Bobby was a proud member of the United States Marine Corps and was privileged to serve his country as one of the proud and the few.

He was an X-Ray Technologist for many years but found his greatest joy in farming. Bobby was well known for his huge gardens which he planted as soon as the frost was gone. Shortly before he passed away, he talked about looking forward to planting a garden with his mother in Heaven.

His children have memories of their dad waking everyone at the crack of dawn with, "Up and at em!" and then heading to the farm. They remember fishing, whether in a Minnesota lake or a muddy cow pond; and their dad's firm discipline, but soft heart.

Bobby went to sleep in the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, January 25, 2006, surrounded by his six children, Beverly, his mother, his brothers and other loved ones. Bobby was preceded in death by his father, Burnell South. He is survived by his mother Doris South of Mont Ayr; his beloved companion Beverly Noble of Russell, IA: his daughter Gayla Groeneweg & husband Jerry of Lincoln, NE, and children Seth, Jessica, and Ashley; son Gregg & wife Mickie South of FT Smith Arkansas and children Trevor and Brooke; son Scott & wife Carla South of Stafford, Virginia and son Zack; son Mike South of Merritt Island, Florida and daughters Leah and Breanna; son Doug South of Englewood, Co and children Kyle, Stephanie, and Kaitlyn; son Tim South of Englewood, CO, and daughter Amanda; brothers Larry & wife Sherrie South of FT Collins, CO, Jack & wife Sandy South of Sterling, CO, and Jerry South of Butte, MT; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and loved ones. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.

[105] Spurrier, Leana Fern

Leana Fern Spurrier, daughter of John & Myrtle Ethington Shaffer,
was born on a farm north of Clearfield, Iowa on May 24, 1911 and passed
away on September 18, 2007 at Clearview Home in Clearfield.
On December 26, 1931, she was united in marriage to R.E.
Spurrier and to this union 3 children were born; Richard, Dean, and John
Paul Spurrier. Fern moved to town at the age of 8 and lived the rest of her
life in Clearfield.

[106] Stacy, Robert Mack - Funeral services for Robert Stacy, age 92 of Bedford, who died Wednesday, August 17, 2005 at his home were held Saturday, August 20, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church with Reverend William Ballard officiating.  Interment with military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164 were held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford.  Memorials can be directed to the Bibbons City Park or the Bedford Public Library. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Robert Mack Stacy was born November 9, 1912, in Adel, Iowa, the son of Walter Stacy and Nancy Jane (Ellenberger) Stacy. Bob grew up living in Adel all of his young life.  He was active and passionate about all sports, having played baseball (Adel and Bedford semi-pro), basketball, football, tennis (Bedford City Champ), golf, swimming and ice skating.  He and his buddies made the most of their young lives and he as able to maintain his relationship with those boyhood friends throughout his life. 

After graduating from the Adel High School with the Class of 1928, he attended Drake University where he played freshman football.  He left Drake after two years, returning to Adel to work to put his younger brother and sister through college.  He enlisted in the United States Navy on March 28, 1942, where he served in the South    Pacific during World War II.  Bob met Mildred Severs who was a school teacher in Adel and
when he was home on leave from the South Pacific, he and Mildred married on May 27, 1945, at the Bedford United Methodist Church.  After Bob's discharge, they returned to Bedford and he became a partner with her father in the Severs-Stacy Hardware Store.  Severs retired in 1960, and Bob purchased the business operating it  until his retirement in 1986.

Bob was a member of the Bedford United Methodist Church having served on several boards and committees.  In the past he had been active on the Library and Parks Boards; Cemetery Board, Zoning Commission, Chamber of  Commerce, Lions Club, and American Legion where he served on the Board of Trustees for many of those organizations throughout the years.  Bob was a man of ethics and character.  He was known for his 'dry wit' and was the 'master of the understatement', and always gave you that 'half chuckle!' Bob was a people person and truly wanted to know people and learn about you and your life.  He possessed a remarkable memory that didn't stop as he grew older, and he could draw from his past experiences and relationships.  During his business years, Bob's motto was "The Customer ALWAYS Came First!".    He and Mildred lived in the same home that was built in 1915, by Mildred's grandparents, having been the third generation to occupy the home.

Robert is survived by his loving wife Mildred of Bedford; two daughters, Julia Stacy of Bedford; and Jane Billings of Greeley, Colorado; a granddaughter Jennifer Jensen and husband Nick of Cedar Rapids, Iowa;
two nephews, Kingsley Clarke, Jr., of Chicago, Illinois; and Lance Clarke of Aspen, Colorado; and a whole community of friends.

Preceding Robert in death are his parents, a brother John Stacy and a sister Mary Jane Messamer.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Robert's passing.

[107] Stanger, Martha

Funeral services for Martha Stanger, age 90 of Lenox,
Iowa, who died Thursday, December 27, 2007 at Clearview
Homes, Clearfield, Iowa, will be held Sunday, January 6,
2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Methodist Church, Lenox, Iowa
with Pastor Gerry Kahler officiating. Visitation with the
family will be held 6-8 p.m., Saturday, January 5, 2008 at
the Ritchie Funeral Home, Lenox Burial with military rites
will be in Blue Grove Cemetery, rural Lenox, Iowa.
Memorials can be directed to the family. Memories and
condolences may be shared with the family on our web
page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home
of Lenox.

[108] Steigleder, Mable Rose Dawson - Funeral services for Mable Rose Steigleder 82 Arvada, Colorado were held Thursday September 15, 2005 at Arvada Chapel of the Angels with Rev. Richard Steward officiating. Interment was at the Arvada Cemetery.

Mable Rose, daughter of Ray and Mamie Lantz Dawson was born at Bedford, Iowa May 25, 1923 and departed this life September 11, 2005 at her home. Rosie was united in marriage to Bill Steigleder September 28, 1947 in Red Oak, Iowa. They lived most of their married life in Arvada CO; Bill preceded her in death March 7th, 1987. Also proceeded in death by her parents, brother Joe; sister Margaret Helen and a nephew Jim Walters.


Left to cherish her memory are sons Bob Steigleder and wife March, Palmyra Virginia; Steve Steigleder and wife Karen, Arvada, CO; daughter Vickie Steigleder, Middleton Wisconsin; Eight grand children and two great grand children. a sister Mary L. Walters and her husband Lee of Red Oak, IA; sister-in law Melba Dawson Bedford, IA; nieces Judy Sederburg and husband Clemie of Essex, IA; Janet Maynes, Arden Hills, Minnesota; Nephews Bob Dawson and wife Carole, Bedford, IA; Rick Dawson and wife Terri, Maryville, MO; and other relatives. Rosie, will be missed by her loved ones, many friends and
neighbors and remembered by always having some thing nice to say about everyone.

[109] Stephens, Doris Loretta Mattson, was born on March 21, 1925, in Conception, Missouri to Blaine Martin Mattson and Flora Cox Mattson. On February 2, 1946, she married Jesse L. Stephens in Golden, Colorado. To this union was born one daughter, Judith. She was a housewife and an avid reader.

Doris passed away Tuesday, Sept 12, 2006 at Villisca Good Samaritan, Villisca, IA, following an extended illness.
She was preceded in death by her parents; step father, Clarence Constance; two brothers, Bermard Mattson of Powell, Wyoming and George Mattson of North Dakota.

To mourn her loss, she leaves her husband Jesse, Hepburn, IA; daughter, Judy Bears, of Blanchard, IA; and two grandchildren, Jessa Bears and Travis Bears, both of Blanchard, IA.
Funeral services were held Thursday, Sept 14, 2006 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Clarinda, with Pastor Charles Mayer officiating. Burial was at Maple Grove Cemetery, Gus, IA. A memorial fund is being established. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Clarinda was in charge of arrangements.
[110] Stephens, Frances Kathryn Bullock - Memorial graveside services for Frances Stephens, age 97 of Bedford who died Sunday, August 7, 2005, at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center in were held Wednesday, August 10, 2005, at 10:00 a.m. at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford.  In lieu of flowers
the family requests memorials be directed to the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Bedford. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
 
Frances Kathryn (Bullock) Stephens was born September 28, 1907, in rural Ray County, Missouri the daughter of David A. Bullock and Mattie Mae (Bowman) Bullock.  She grew up in the Kansas City area where she graduated from Stec High School with the Class of 1926.  She then attended a business college in Chillicothe, Missouri and went to work for John Deere as a bookkeeper for many years.  On November 21, 1929, she was united in marriage to Raymond Kenneth (Al) Stephens in Kansas City, Missouri.  In
1943, Al entered the United States Army.  During this time Frances continued to live in the Kansas City area.  In 1947, Al and Frances moved to Bedford, planning to only stay one year, and ended up owning and operating the 'Hamburger Inn'.  Frances was always partial to boys, and even though they never had any children of their own, they felt like they had a hand in raising most of the town kids.  High school boys would eat lunch with them and when they were rowdy, she sent them outside to settle their problems, and then they could come back in and finish their meal. One of the favorite meals at the Hamburger Inn was a hamburger steak, potatoes, vegetables and always orange jello, there was never any other flavor than orange! And when the young kids cleaned their plate, she always gave them a candy bar.  Frances was famous for her chili (beans were always served on the side) and her homemade pies.  Together, Al and Frances ran this business for twenty-five years, selling out in 1972, to Darlene Derry.  Together they had been very active in the Bedford community over the years.

Upon their retirement, Al and Frances enjoyed themselves, taking many fishing trips to Minnesota.   Frances loved to play golf, keeping active on the golf course well into her 90's with her good friend Marion Anderson.  She also enjoyed playing Bridge and being active in many clubs.

Left to cherish her memory are two nephews and many friends.
 
Preceding Frances in death are her husband Al in 2002 and a sister, Helen (Jibby) Neff.   

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn her passing.

[111] Straight, Clarence Vernon - Clarence Vernon Straight, son of Charles Eli Straight and Hattie Mae (Horning) Straight, was born May 9, 1907 in Beatrice, NE. After homesteading in western Nebraska and living in southern Missouri for a few years, the family moved to rural Taylor County, Iowa. He attended rural school in Taylor County, Iowa and graduated from Conway High School in 1927. He enjoyed
sports and excelled in basketball.

Vernon and Jessie Nickle met at a dance and enjoyed dancing and traveling. They were married on June 2, 1934 and established their home on a farm south of Sharpsburg. He farmed with his brother Lee. He also maintained roads for Taylor County. While living in Bedford for 8 years, he worked for the Iowa State
Highway Commission. Later they farmed a few years in Ringgold County and purchased a farm east of Conway where they resided from February 1948 until moving into Clearfield in 1976.

Vernon enjoyed people. He was an active member of the Christian Church and served as a deacon and held several other offices. He was a 50+ year member of the Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star and a
member of the Clearfield Lions Club.

Vernon passed away on May 23, 2006 at Greater Regional Medical Center in Creston. He was preceded in death by his parents and Jessie’s parents; 2 brothers Marion and Lee Straight; 2 sisters Hazel Bishoff and Edna Straight; 2 sister-in-law Edna Nord and Lois Straight; and 4 brothers-in-law Lyle Nord, G.C.
Hofmeister, Ronald Bishoff, and Max Hunter.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 71 years, Jessie Straight of Clearfield; daughter Patricia Straight of Onalaska, WI, and son Donald Dean Straight and wife Marilyn of Boone, IA: 1 sister Helen Straight Hunter of Hattiesburg, MS; 1 sister-in-law Beatrice Hofmeister of Denver, CO: 2 grandchildren, 3 step-
grandchildren, and several great grandchildren; nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Friday, May 26, 2006 at the Christiana Church in Clearfield, Iowa; with burial in Clearfield Cemetery. Memorials to the Christian church in Clearfield, Iowa. Wilson-Watson & Armstrong Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

[112] Stream, Dorothy

Funeral Services for Dorothy Stream, age 99 of Lenox who died
Friday, November 9, 2007 at the Lenox Care Center were held
Monday, November 12, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at the Lenox
Christian Church. Interment was held in the North Fairview
Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be directed to the Lenox
Christian Church. Memories can be shared with the family at
www.ritchiefunralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements
were entrusted to the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

[113] Sturm, Cleo - Private graveside family services for Cleo Sturm, age 87, of
the Clearfield/Lenox area, who died Friday, December 15,
2006 at Clearview Home in Clearfield were held Monday,
December 18, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at the West Fairview
Cemetery in Lenox with military rites accorded by the
Parkinson American Legion Post No. 250. Public visitation
was held Sunday at the Ritchie Funeral Home from 4 to 8
with the family greeting friends from 7 to 8. Memorials
can be directed to the Lenox American Legion. Memories
can be shared with the family on our website at
www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home
of Lenox.

 

Cleo Leon Sturm was born December 18, 1918, on a farm
near Sharpsburg, Iowa the son of Arthur Sturm and Ethel
May (Leonard) Sturm. He grew up attending school in
Sharpsburg, graduating with the Class of 1936. After
graduation he went to work for the Sheridan Egg & Cream
Company. On April 5, 1941, he was united in marriage to
Alfreda Reynolds in Albany, Missouri. In 1944, Cleo
joined the United States Navy serving in the South Pacific
Theatre during World War II. After his discharge, he
returned home to farm. The couple purchased a farm
between Lenox and Clearfield in the early 1950's. Cleo
also worked as a part-time United States Postal Carrier for
over thirty years. In March of 1981 they sold their farm
equipment and moved to Lenox where Cleo worked full-
time as a mail carrier for few years. His wife Alfreda
passed away in 1986. Declining health forced Cleo to enter
the Lenox Care Center in January in 2004 moving to the
Clearview Home in 2005.

 

Cleo was a member of the Lenox Christian Church; the
Noble Masonic Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Clearfield; the
Clearfield Lion's Club; the Parkinson American Legion
Post No. 250; he was a thirty year member of the National
Rural Letter Carrier's Association; and was also a member
of the M.F.A. Cleo and Alfreda traveled for several years
after retirement spending time in the south during the
winter. He also enjoyed going to auctions, he often said
"He had made so many good deals, he almost went broke!"

Left to cherish Cleo's memory are his three sons, Dave of
Greene, Iowa; Dale of Fargo, North Dakota; and Duane and
wife Reasa of Clarinda; a sister, Leona Minnick and
husband Homer of Kent; fourteen grandchildren and five
great-grandchildren; along with many nieces, nephews,
relatives and friends.

Preceding Cleo in death are his parents; his wife Alfreda in
1986; a son Dennis in 1978; a brother Orlo; and one great-
grandson.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn
Cleo's passing.

[114] Sundell, Ruth Bruner - Funeral Services for Ruth Sundell, age 92 of Lenox who died Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at  the Lenox Care Center in Lenox were held Saturday, December 3, 2005 at
10:30 A.M. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox.  Interment was held in the North Fairview Cemetery in
Lenox.  Memorials can be made to the United Methodist Church in Lenox.  Please leave a message of tribute to the Sundell family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.
 
Ruth was born March 10, 1913, on a farm southwest of Clearfield, the daughter of  Daniel Bruner and Blanche (Knox) Bruner.  She graduated from Clearfield high school and upon graduation began teaching school.  Ruth taught three years until her marriage to Karl Sundell on June 16, 1934.  Together she and Karl farmed and raised their family of three beautiful children on a farm south of Lenox. 

While on the farm Ruth enjoyed raising a flower and vegetable garden each year. Then, in 1956, Ruth continued her passion of teaching.  She attended Northwest Missouri State University and took correspondence classes, Saturday classes, and Summer school.  In 1964, she graduated from NWMSU with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education.  She continued her graduate work at Drake University in areas of Special Education and Learning Disabilities.  Ruth continued to teach elementary school until her retirement in 1975.  After her retirement she continued to teach adult basic education classes at the Taylor County Care facility and did summer tutoring until 1981.  Ruth was also a member of Alpha Omicron Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, a national teacher's organization.

Ruth's family was the center of her life.  Most importantly, she enjoyed being involved in their lives.  Ruth was always proud of her family and their activities. She was a very loving and generous person who enjoyed quilting and giving away her many works.  This included a quilt for each grandchild and many more to others.  Ruth was also a wonderful cook.  Having come from a large family, where her responsibility was to cook, she honed her skills.  There were many favorites "dishes" in the family, but her specialty was her noodles.  Ruth was also a member of the Lenox United Methodist Church.

Left to cherish Ruth's memory are her loving children, Beverly Stream of Lenox; Karl Sundell and wife Joyce of St. Joseph, Missouri; and Vada Calhoon and husband Wayne of Spencer, Iowa; two sisters, Mildred Matthews of Clearfield; and Helen Lyddon of Clearfield; along with nine grandchildren, twenty-six great grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren.  

Preceding Ruth in death are her parents, Daniel and Blanche; husband Karl; two brothers, Fred and Roland; and three sisters, Bernice, Marietta, and Alice.     

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Ruth's  passing.
[115] Swartz, Eugene -

Eugene Swartz was the son of George Swartz and Cora
(Riley) Swartz. He was born on October 26, 1918, on the
family farm in Grant Township, Adams County, Iowa. He
was still living an active life on the farm until he passed
away from complications of a stroke at the Clearview
Home in Clearfield.

Gene attended rural school at Grant No. 6 through the
eighth grade. He graduated from Lenox High School with
the Class of 1936, and then attended Iowa State University
for a year and a half, before returning to the family farm.
On October 19, 1943, he was united in marriage to Estella
Cooper at the Corning Methodist Parsonage. The couple
felt closeness to God in their living on the farm and being
stewards of God's land. Two children were born to bless
this union, Edward and Florence.

Gene entered the United States Army in October of 1944,
serving in the Infantry of the Occupational Army in Japan.
When he returned home, he was greeted by his wife and
their 15-month old son whom he had never seen. Gene and
his family enjoyed outdoor activities and the farm life. He
was active with both children in 4-H, music and
encouraged them on other projects, such as the restoration
of a Model-A Ford car. Education for his children was
very important to him with both Ed and Florence
graduating from Iowa State University.

Gene was a dedicated conservationist having served as a
Soil Commissioner in Adams County for many years. He
and his father were among the earliest farmers to have a
`farm plan' promoting soil and water conservation by
implementing contour planting, terracing, grass waterways
and establishing watersheds on God's land. He was proud
to have helped in the planning and building of the Lake
Icaria Recreation Area near Corning. He also served as
State President for the Iowa District Commissioners. He
was also active in the Backyard Flower Conservation
Team; the Old Tyme Power Tractor Club; a thirty-year
member of the International Edsel Club of Iowa; a leader
and supporter of the 4-H Clubs and the Parkinson
American Legion Post No. 250 in Lenox. Gene was a great
volunteer in the National Parks and Forest Bureau of Land
Management, Fish and Wildlife. He was also involved in
the Heifer Project International offering many new
experiences and opportunities for the farmer retiree. He
felt blessed to have had faith in God without fear.

In 1985, Gene suggested to Estella they become full-time
RV'ers for a year to explore the beautiful United States of
America. The changing weather and scenery of the deserts,
mountaintops, canyons, plains and lakes. They also
enjoyed backpacking and hiking. These new experiences
and style of living gave them a wonderful peace of mind.
What was to be a 'one year adventure' ended up lasting
twelve and a half years!

Left to cherish Gene's memory are his loving wife of 63
years, Estella of Lenox; daughter Florence Jackson and
husband Les of Lino Lakes, Minnesota; grandson Todd
Jackson and wife Liz and their daughter Cassady of North
Liberty, Iowa; granddaughter Becky Sonmore and husband
Scott and their sons Derek and Dylan of Blaine, Minnesota.

Preceding Gene in death were his parents; a sister Ila
Ramsey; and a son Edward.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn
Gene's passing.

[116] Secor, Mary Margaret Gray - Mary Margaret Secor was born July 13, 1937, on her grandfather's farm outside of Duquoin, Kansas, to Charles and Ruth (Wilson) Gray, the youngest of three children and went to be with Jesus on Thursday, February 7, 2008, at their home in Lincoln at the age of 70 years, 6 months and 25 days. As a young girl she received Jesus as her Savior and followed the Lord in baptism. She moved often with her father's ministry as a Pastor and graduated with the Class of 1955 from Milford High School. She furthered her education by attending Bethel College in Mishawka, In. Mary was united in marriage to Larry Secor on July 5, 1957 at the Missionary Church in Milford, Ne, and to this union three children, Cherryl, Kristine and Mark, were born.

Together they began their life in ministry serving pastorates together in Burr Oak, Mi, Milford, Ne, Bedford, Ia, and Wichita, Ks. During this time, Mary served as Larry's secretary, as well as teaching and in music accompaniment and leadership. When Larry served as District Superintendent of the Midwest District, Missionary Church, they resided in Lincoln, and currently they were serving as Associate Pastor of then Northeast Missionary Church on North 66th Street.

Mary was a compassionate person, always putting other needs first. She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed Christian fiction of the pioneer era. Mary enjoyed two special trips, one to South America to visit their daughter and other Missionary friends; and a second trip with the Gaither Music Group on an Alaskan cruise. A highlight was celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary last July with family and friends.

Mary was a loving wife, mother, sister and dearly loved all her family, especially her 12 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, the last one born, February 2nd.

She is survived by her husband, Larry Secor, Lincoln, children and spouses, Cheri and Tim Bauer, Wichita, Ks; Kristy and Brad Weinert, Cordoba, Argentina; Mark and Julie Secor, LaPorte, In; 12 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, sister and brother-in-law Rita and Rev Orville Banks, Elkhart, In; many nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Rev Charles and Ruth Gray and brother, Walter.

Memorials have been established to Northeast Missionary Church, Lincoln or to Timberlake Retreat Center, Warrensburg, Ks.

 

Simmons, Larry David - Larry David Simmons, 46, of Cupertino, Calif. died September 6, 1994 in Cupertino.

Services were held Saturday at the Coen-Beaty Funeral Home with Rick Titus officiating. Burial was at the Graceland Cemetery in Creston.

Larry was born July 10, 1948 in Maryville, Mo. to Lloyd and Norma (Cobb) Simmons. He attended school in Bedford. He lived in Bedford from 1970-1983 and then moved to Cupertino, Calif.

He married Mary Ann Pierpoint May 31, 1969 in Maryville, Mo and later divorced. He was a self-employed electrical contractor.

Survivors include a son, Joshua of Creston; mother, Norma Baker of Bedford; a sister, Joan Freemyer of Fairfax, Mo; three brothers, Allan Simmons of Marshall, Mo; Bill Baker, Jr of Kansas City, Mo; and Jim Baker of Ainsworth, Neb; a special uncle, Wilbur Simmons of Bedford; and a special friend Jeanie Field of Hutchinson, Kan.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Lloyd Simmons; and a son, Shane David Simmons.

Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Sep 21, 1994

[118] Smith, Ellis -

Ellis J. Smith, son of Leslie and Aura Smith was born January 12, 1912 in Taylor County, Iowa and died in a nursing home in Killeen, Tx. after a long illness.
He grew up in Taylor County, Iowa and Nodaway County, Mo. where he attended the public schools. He was inducted into the Armed Services in April of 1942, he was captured and taken prisoner during the Belgium Bulge, being in a Concentration Camp for three months, he received his honorable discharge in November of 1945. He was married to Avis Deardorff in January of 1948, they lived in Worth County, Mo. where he was engaged in trucking and he also farmed several years.
Avis died in June 1960. He was married to Evelyn Cox in October 1963, they lived in Texas for several years being employed by the City of San Marcos for 12 years. Evelyn died in February 1978. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Eugene Smith; a nephew Eldon Larson and his wives Avis and Evelyn.
He is survived by a brother Lawrence Smith and his wife Henryetta of Oak Grove, Mo.; two sisters, Naomi Larson and her husband Dean, Mable Grace and her husband Elgin of Bedford; a stepdaughter Martha Musick and her husband Drexel of Grant City, Mo. and an adopted son of Killeen, Tx.; several nieces and nephews, four step grandchildren; other relatives and many friends. Ellis was very kind and well liked and made many friends where ever he went. He will be sadly missed by all who loved him.

[Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Jan 27, 1988]

[119] Smith, Sue -

Graveside services were held on Wednesday, Nov. 9 at Wash­ington Cemetery, Gravity, la. for Sue B. Smith, 92, Bedford. Rev.
Carl Cummings officiated. Mrs. Smith died November 5, 1988 at Bedford Manor.
She was born February 22, 1896 in Taylor County to Theodore and Mary Burrows. She married Ross E. Smith and to this union one son, Max, was born.   "5 U-oR-88
rShe had been a resident of Bedford Manor for 3 1/2 years. Preceding her in death were her parents, a sister Nellie Davis, her husband on January 2, 1955, and her son Max, November 5, 1973.
She is survived by a great grandson, cousins and nieces. [Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Nov 09, 1988]

[120] Smith, Lawrence -

LAWRENCE SMITH
Services for Lawrence Smith, 72, Oak Grove, Mo. were held at Royer Chapel, Oak Grove with burial at the Mecklin Cemetery near Oak Grove. Mr.Smith died October 28, 1988 at his home.
Lawrence "Jake" Smith was born on May 15, 1916 to Leslie Evans Smith and Aura Mae (Philips) Smith of Taylor County, la.
He lived in the Bedford and Sheridan, Mo. area before moving to Oak Grove, Mo. in the 1950's.
Jake was a farmer and member of the Sni-Creek Antique Machinery Club. Jake was employed by the Blue Springs, Mo. school district for many years and retired in 1982.
Jake was a World War II Army veteran and a member of the Oak Grove United Methodist Church.
Survivors include his wife Henryetta Smith of the home; a son Leslie Smith of Oak Grove; a daughter Dena Quick of Fulton, Mo.; two sisters Naomi Larson and Mable Grace of Bedford; and seven grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Eugene in 1940 and Ellis in 1988. [Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Nov 09, 1988]

 

[121] Snyder, Jeanette Lillian Boyd -

Funeral services for Jeanette Snyder, 80, were held Thursday, September 21, 2:00 p.m. at the Bedford Baptist Church. Rev. Ted DeHass and the Rebekah Lodge assisted in the services. Burial was at Fairview Cemetery. Jeanette Lillian Boyd Snyder, the only daughter of Alfred E. Boyd and Flora Adaline Crull, was born September 10, 1909 at Conway, Iowa and died at her home in Bedford, Iowa on September 17, 1989. She had five brothers: Lyle, her twin who died in infancy; Willie, Harold, Fay, and Newt Boyd. They all preceded her in death.
She was born and raised in Taylor County, Iowa. At the age of 10 she made her home with an aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Higgins of the Blockton area.
She attended school in Taylor County country schools and Maloy High School.
On November 23, 1927, she was married to Glen Weaver Snyder at Blockton, Iowa. To this union nine children were born, two babies dying at birth.
Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband Glen Snyder of Bedford; two children who died in infancy, John Phillip and Helen June; also one stepdaughter Ruth Longfellow and her husband Carl; and two grandsons, John Eric Boyle and Randy Young.
Leaving to mourn are her children Ferne and husband Doyle Mingus of Lexington, Neb.; Harold and wife Martha Snyder of Sidney, Iowa; Leo Snyder and wife Donna Sue of Rock Springs, Wyo.; twins Edward Snyder and wife Cathy of Thorn, Wash., and Eleanor Boyle and husband John of Elwood, Neb.; Donna Mae Pitman and husband Gary of Bedford; Betty Cook and husband Larry of Council Bluffs; also three stepchildren, Paul Snyder and wife Mary Lou of Stafford, Va.; Don Snyder and
wife Julia of Chariton, Iowa; and Lucille McCandless and husband Bill of Lexington, Neb.; also 43 grandchildren, 53 great grandchildren, eight great great grandchildren, a host of friends and neighbors to mourn her passing.
Jean as she was called spent all of her life helping others. She was a member of the First Baptist Church at Bedford and was active in church activities and the Baptist Women's Circle. She was a member of a bowling league in Bedford for two years. She joined the Golden Rule Rebekah Lodge in 1975 and was an active member until her death. She was a Past Noble Grand in the Lodge. Jean was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.
She enjoyed being with her family. She also liked to travel and do handwork. Her favorite Bible passage was the 23rd Psalm.
She will be sadly missed by her family and friends. [Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Sep 27, 1989]