E. Ova Kinney, 1877-1960

The Seymour Herald – 4 February 1960

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  Ova Kinney, son of Jesse G. Kinney and Louisa E[noch] Kinney, was born Feb. 10, 1877, in Appanoose county, one mile west of Jerome.  He was the fourth child born in the family of nine.  They were all born on the same farm.

  He was a member of the Knights of Pythias and was active in the work for two and one-half years.  He made his home with his parents and had work in Jerome.  On June 30, 1901, he was united in marriage to Leonie Mitten and to this union was born one son, Walter H. Kinney who passed away at the age of eight years.  The loss of his son was a great sorrow in his life.

  He was a member of the Methodist church for a number of years, being very humble and having a great love for music and its possibilities for good.  He took an active part in the church choir and male quartet.  His favorite music was band and male quartet numbers.  He attended school and Sunday school at Jerome.

  His companion passed away March 24, 1945.

  He was a man of good character and enjoyed the company of friends around him.

  He was preceded in death by his father, mother, three brothers (Clyde, Frank and Carl) and two sisters (Mary, known as Mamie, and Maud Kinney Bolin) and his wife and young son.

  Survivors are two sisters, Mrs. Osta Norris of Jewell and Mrs. Effie Haux of Cedar Rapids, and one brother, George of Cincinnati.

  Death came to Ova Kinney Sunday morning, Jan. 31, 1960, at the Windsor hotel in Seymour where he had made his home since retiring from the farm in 1945.

CARD OF THANKS

  For every kindness to us at the time of the death of our brother, E. O. Kinney, who thank you very much.  We are especially grateful for the thoughtfulness of the people at the Windsor hotel.  May the good Lord bless and keep thee.

Mrs. Osta Norris and family

Mrs. Effie Houx

Mr. and Ms. George Kinney

Mr. and Mrs. Orlando Mitten

Mr. and Mrs. Homer Mitten

Gravestone of 

E. Ova and Leona Mitten Kinney

in the Tharp Cemetery, Wayne County, Iowa
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 Thanks to Jocelyn Faris for the photo of the above gravestone.

Effie Mae Kinney Houx, 1879-1962

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Cedar Rapids Gazette – 14 August 1962

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  Effie M. Houx, widow of J. Sam Houx, 500 Third Avenue SW, a Cedar Rapids resident for many years, died in a nursing home Monday.  She was born October 23, 1879, at Jerome, Ia.  Surviving are a brother, George Kinney of Cincinnati, and a sister, Mrs. Osta Norris of Jewell, Ia.

  Mrs. Houx, an accomplished musician, was a member of Trinity Methodist church for 58 years and of the Ida Gard circle.  She was honored last spring for having started Lenten meditations for the Woman’s Society several years ago.

  Services: Turner chapel at 3’ Wednesday by the Rev. Bernard Olson.  Burial: Cedar Memorial.  Friends may call at the chapel.

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  Effie Mae Kinney married at Jerome, 23 October 1902, John Samuel Houx who was born at Martinsburg, Blair County, Pennsylvania, 26 December 1857, son of William Jacob Houx, Jr. and Susan E. Shimmer, and who died at Cedar Rapids, Linn County, Iowa, 30 November 1934. [findagrave.com]

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Gravemarkers for

Effie Mae Kinney Houx

and John Samuel Houx 

in Cedar Memorial Park, 
Cedar Rapids, Linn County, Iowa

Evergreen, Lot 142

Frank Kinney, 1899-1941

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Centerville Daily Iowegian – 22 April 1941

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FORMER JEROME MAN FALLS DEAD 
IN OKLAHOMA CITY

Frank Kinney, 
Native of Jerome Vicinity Was Well Known

Funeral Will be at Jerome

  Frank Kinney, former well known resident of the Jerome vicinity, died suddenly of heart failure at Oklahoma City yesterday, according to word received here today.  Mr. Kinney is said to have dropped dead without warning having been in apparently good health immediately before his death.

  Mr. Kinney was born and raised on a farm west of Jerome.  He was well known and had many relatives and friends over the community to all of whom the news of his sudden death comes as a shock and sorrow.

  In death he leaves the following brothers and sisters: Carl Kinney, of Marshalltown; Ora Kinney, of near Seymour; and George Kinney, living west of Centerville; Mrs. Guthrie Norris, of Marshalltown; and Mrs. Effie Houx, of Cedar Rapids.

  The body is being brought back TO Jerome and funeral services will be held at the Methodist church there at 2:00 o’clock Wednesday.

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The Seymour Herald – 24 April 1941

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FUNERAL SERVICES FOR FRANK KENNEY

  Funeral services for Frank Kenney, 52, were held in the Methodist church in Jerome Wednesday afternoon, at 2:30 o’clock.

  Mr. Kinney had been a resident of Oklahoma City, Okla., the past 22 years and died from a heart attack.  He is the brother of E. O. and Carl Kinney.

  Burial was made in the Jerome cemetery.

  In death he leaves to morn three brothers and two sisters, Ova of near Seymour, George of near Centerville, Carl of Marshalltown, Mrs. Guthrie Norris of Marshalltown, Mrs. Effie Houx of Cedar Rapids.

  The funeral service was conducted at Jerome by Rev. H. B. Fay of burial was in Jerome cemetery.

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Centerville Daily Iowegian – 24 April 1941

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Funeral Service For Frank Kinney At Jerome 23^rd

  Funeral services were held at Jerome Methodist church Wednesday afternoon, April 23, 1941, for Frank Kinney who died in Oklahoma City, Okla.  He was the son of Jesse and Louise Kinney and was born March 11, 1899, one mile west of Jerome.  He lived on the home farm with his parents until 1919 when he went to Oklahoma and worked for the Sinclair and Stand Pipe Line company, of which he was chief engineer.

  As a boy he always attend Sunday school and the Methodist church in Jerome.

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Centerville Daily Iowegian – 28 April 1941

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EAGLE SCRATCHINGS

  Mrs. George Kinney, of west of Centerville, states that a message came to them of the death of George’s brother Frank. His remains were being shipped to Seymour, Ia.  No date for the funeral had been set at the date of this writing.  George’s brother Frank had visited in George’s home during his 12 year residence on what was for many years called the McFerren farm west of Eagle locality.

JEROME

  Carl Kinney of Marshalltown spent the week-end with friends in the Jerome vicinity.

  Mr. and Mrs. Ova Kinney and Orlando Mitten of Seymour and Mr. and Mrs. George Kinney of Centerville and Mr. and Mrs. Orville Kinney of Des Moines attended the funeral of Frank Kinney Wednesday afternoon.

  Mr. and Mrs. Guthrie Norris and Carl Kinney of Marshalltown, Ia., and Mrs. Effie Houx of Cedar Rapids, attended the funeral of Frank Kinney Wednesday afternoon.

  Mr. and Mrs. Norris remained for a few days visit at the home of his brother Lewis Norris and family.

  Funeral services were held at the Jerome Methodist church Wednesday afternoon for Frank Kinney who passed away in Oklahoma City, Okla.  He was a former resident of Jerome.

  Mrs. Effie Houx of Cedar Rapids is visiting with her cousin, Mrs. Alta Morrison, and other relatives and friends for a few days.

Gravestones in the Jerome Cemetery 

for the Kinney Family and Frank Kinney

Row 5, Block 8, Lot 2

Louisa Enoch Kinney, 1850-1939

Centerville Daily Iowegian and Citizen  
6 June 1939

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Mrs. Kinney of Near Jerome 
Is Taken By Illness

Death This Morning Claims Widow of Civil War Veteran

Funeral Planned at Jerome

  Mrs. Louise Kinney, 89, widow of a Civil War veteran, died at her home one mile west of Jerome at 5 o’clock this morning after a long period of illness.  Mrs. Kinney had been in failing health for some time and her death today was attributed to old age and complicated illnesses.

  Mrs. Kinney’s husband, Jesse Kinney, a civil war veteran, preceded her in death about 20 years ago.  She had been living on the home place near Jerome, with her son Carl, during the past few years.  She moved to Appanoose county from Davis county a number of years ago and made her home here since that time.

  In death she is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Effie Houx and Mrs. Osta Norris, both of Cedar Rapids and four sons, George of near Centerville, Frank of Oklahoma City, Okla., Ova of near Seymour, and Carl at home.  A large number of nieces and nephews and grandchildren also survive.

  Mrs. Kinney was a long time member of the Methodist church of Jerome and her funeral will be held there, with burial in the cemetery nearby.  Definite arrangements have not been made, pending arrival of relatives.

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The Seymour Herald – 8 June 1939

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MRS. LOUISA E. KINNEY DIES 
AT PLANO HOME

  Mrs. Louisa E. Kinney, widow of the late Jesse G. Kinney, died at her home near Plano, Iowa, Monday, June 5, at the age of 88 years, 8 months and 8 days.

  Funeral services will be conducted from the Methodist church in Jerome at 2:00 o’clock Thursday, June 8.

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Centerville Daily Iowegian and Citizen
16 June 1939

The Seymour Herald – 15 June 1939

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Louisa Enoch Kinney

  Louisa Enoch, eighth child of George and Persis Enoch was born September 28, 1850 in Springfield, Ohio and died June 6, 1939, at her home one mile west of Jerome at the age of 88 years, 8 months and 9 days.

  At the age of eight years she moved with her parents to Davis County, Iowa, where she grew to womanhood.

  On January 5, 1870 near Troy, Davis County, she was united in marriage to Jesse G. Kinney and in the following April they moved to the farm where she has since resided excepting a few years in Seymour.

  To this union were born ten children, four of whom preceded her in death.

  Mr. Kinney died June 2, 1920.

  The surviving children are, Mrs. Guthrie Norris of Marion, Iowa, Ova Kinney of Wayne county, Iowa, Mrs. Effie Haux of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, George of Centerville, Iowa, Frank of Oklahoma City, and Carl in the home.

  She leaves also eight grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren, one sister, Mrs. Clarissa Cook of Lyons, Kansas.

  Mrs. Kinney, having come from a deeply religious family, united early in life with the Methodist church.  She was an active member of the Jerome Methodist church throughout her life.

  Interment was in the Jerome cemetery, Rev. J. E. McClellan, Methodist pastor, Jerome, officiating.

Gravestones in Jerome Cemetery for

Louisa Enoch Kinney

Row 5, Block 8, Lot 2

Wayne Kinney Norris, 1908-1912

The Seymour Democrat – 9 September 1912

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  Wayne Kinney Norris, youngest son of Guthrie and Osta Norris, was born Sept. 25, 1908, and departed this life Sept. 3, 1912, age 3 years, 11 months and 21 days.

  On Monday morning he was playing in the yard when he ran to call his papa to eat breakfast with him when a little colt kicked him.  He ran to his manna and told her.  The doctor was called but it was thought to be nothing serious, but that evening he began to get worse and the doctor came again and called council from Centerville, when it was decided that nothing could save his life but an operation.  He was taken to Centerville to the St. Joseph Hospital at 3 a.m., where everything that medical aid and loving hands could do to ease his pain was done, but it seemed as if appendicitis had already formed which was aggravated by the hurt.,

  The doctors did everything that could be done but he passed away at 8:30 Tuesday morning.  The little darling was taken to the residence of Glendora and Pheba Norris Tuesday afternoon.  The funeral was preached by Rev. Bear at the M. E. church at Jerome Wednesday afternoon after which he was laid to rest in the Jerome cemetery.

  A loving father, mother and three brothers and a host of relatives are left to mourn his loss.

Gravestone in Jerome Cemetery for

Wayne Kinney Norris

Row 6, Block 11, Lot 5

Ellen M. E. Norris & John Hayes Murphy

The Idaho Republican - 10 January 1919

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Ellen Minerva Elizabeth Norris Murphy, 1852-1919

   Ellen Minerva E. Norris was born October 13, 1852 at Des Moines County, Iowa. Died at her home near Blackfoot, Idaho January 1, 1919 of heart trouble.  The deceased was a true faithful member of the Methodist Church which she joined when quite young.  She was always ready to lend a helping hand and was loved by all who knew her.    On September 12, 1872 she was united in marriage at her home in Numa, Iowa to John H. Murphy of Burlington, Iowa. To this union were born ten children, four of whom have gone on before.  Her husband and three children, J. Elbert, Nellie Roberts, and Brenice G. Queen were at her bedside at the time of her passing.  The others, Mrs. Carrie R. Rose, W. Ernest of California and Claude I., of Camp Funiston, Kansas. 

  In the year 1883 she moved with her husband and family to Osborne County, Kansas where they resided until 1901.  They then moved to Sheridan County, Kansas where they lived for fifteen years. They left that place in 1916 for California for her health. In 1917 they located near Blackfoot, Idaho where she resided until her death. 

John Hayes Murphy and Ellen Minerva Elizabeth Norris

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Darren Totten of Longmont CO.

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The Daily Bulletin - Blackfoot ID - 26 September 1933

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John Hay Murphy, 1850-1933

  J. H. Murphey [sic] died at the family home west of Blackfoot this morning at 9:30 following a stroke of paralysis two weeks ago. He was born near Des Moines, Iowa in 1850, and has been a resident of this community since 1917. His wife died in January, 1919, and he is survived by three sons and three daughters, Mrs. W. R. Roberts, Mrs. L. J. Queen and Elbert Murphey [sic] of Blackfoot, and Claude and Ernest Murphyand Mrs. Pohn [sic] Rose of Riverside, California.

  Tentative arrangements for the funeral have been made for Thursday afternoon from the Methodist church.

Gravestone in the Grove City Cemetery, Blackfoot, Idaho

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary and the two photographs to The Jerome Journal by Debbie Hess Edward.

Mary Magdaline Norris Dershem, 1878-1933

Daily Iowegian - May 1933

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

  Mary Magdaline Norris, youngest child of Jacob and Mary Jane Norris, was born Jun 8, 1878, in Appanoose County, Iowa, and passed away at the Centerville hospital May 1, 1933, after a short illness at the age of 54 years, 10 months and 23 days.  She was united in marriage to James E. Dershem May 12, 1903.

  She was converted and united with the M.E. church in Numa at the age of 12 years. She was organist at the church for five or six years, attended church and Sunday school until the failing health of her husband prevented it.  She was of a cheerful disposition making friends with everyone who made her acquaintance and was never happier then when doing something to make some one happy. 
  She will be greatly missed in the home and community.  She leaves to mourn her untimely departure her devoted husband, James E. Dershem, three sisters, Glendora and Pheba at home, Lona (sp) Brown of Seymour, three brothers, Lewis of near Numa, Guthrie of Cedar Rapids, Charlie G. of Cincinnati, and a host of nieces and nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her father and mother, four brothers and two sisters. 
  Funeral services were held May 3rd in the Jerome M.E. church, conducted by Rev. Lanning of Centerville, and she was laid to rest in the Jerome cemetery.
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Card of Thanks
  We wish to thank the friends and neighbors for their kindness and help during the illness and death of our dear wife and sister, and for the beautiful floral offering and to those who furnished the music.
James E. Dershem,
Glendora and Pheba Norris,
Lona Brown,
Lewis, Guthrie, and Charles Norris

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Gravestone in the Jerome Cemetery

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Debbie Hess Edward.  It also appears among the obituaries posted on the Appanoose County IAGenWeb site. 

Mary Norris' Farewell Party - September 1895

Iowegian - September 1895

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

  The home of Jacob Norris Saturday evening was the scene of the most pleasant affair of the season. Miss Mary will leave for Sioux City where she will engage in teaching school during the year. It was given in her honor and under her charming supervision the evening was made one of greatest enjoyment to all. The spacious parlor was thrown open to the pleasures of music, both instrumental and vocal.  Delicate refreshments were served and the evening passed quickly by and only at a late hour were the guests willing to bid their farewells, wishing Miss Norris success. The guests who were so well entertained were: Misses Mable Kewley, Thena Russell, Alice Brown, Maggie Dukes, Maud Kewley, Daisy Coleman, Ida Dukes, Ida Coleman, Alice Dukes, Glendora Norris, Phrabe Norris. Messrs John Dukes, Fred Johnson, Will Payne. Mr. and Mrs. I. T. Brown, Mr. and Mrs. O. P. Russell.

David Lawrence Is Heart Attack Victim

Daily Iowegian - 5 August 1963

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

  David Lawrence, evangelist, who was 68, died suddenly in the St. Joseph Hospital Saturday, August 3, 1963, at 6:15 p.m. He had been ill for two days.

  Last Wednesday evening a newsman had talked with David at his home at 205 South Twelfth street during an interview with his mother-in-law, Mrs. Anna Norris, who was 100 years old Saturday. At that time he told of feeling indisposed but thought it was a case of indigestion. He had, however, had a cardiograph made.

  Evangelist Lawrence was born in Treherbert, Wales, July 22, 1895, and was the son of David John and Gwen Griffith Lawrence.

  During World War I he served in the Royal Medical Corps with the British Army. For 10 years following the war he served with a group of Christian Evangelists known as the "Pilgrim Preachers," who toured the Isles.

  Mr. Lawrence came to the United States in 1917, returned to Wales in 1928, then came back to the States in 1929.

  On February 17, 1929, he was united in marriage with Edna Norris in Numa, Iowa. They have lived in Centerville for 30 years.

  During World War II he worked in Christian canteens for service men in various cities of the United States. From 1947 through 1950 he led a group of young men  known as "The Gospel Messengers on Tour." He had been a minister for 49 years and during that time served the Gospel Chapel in Centerville until his passing.

  He had been in charge of a radio program "The Gospel Hour," over KCOG for 14 1/2 years.

  Preceding him in death are his parents, one sister and one brother. Survivors include his widow, two sisters, Miss Margaret Lawrence and Mrs. Elizabeth Ann Rees, of Philadelphia, Pa.; and one brother, Dr. Tom Lawrence of Hartford, Conn.

  The body is at the Miller-Wehrle Funeral Home where funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 7, at 2 p.m. Dave Horn of Denver, Colo., and John Horn of Atchison, Kans., will officiate.

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

Evangelist David Lawrence, 1895-1963

History of Appanoose County, Iowa

[Dallas, TX: Taylor Publishing Company, 1986]

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

  Evangelist David Lawrence was born July 22, 1895, in Treherbet, South Wales, the son of David John and Gwendolyn Griffiths Lawrence. He was one of our children -- two sisters, Margaret Lawrence and Elizabeth Ann Rees, and a brother, Dr. Tom Lawrence.

  He was married to Frances Edna Norris on February 17, 1929, at Numa, Ia.

  During World War I, he served in the Royal Medical Corps with the British Army. For ten years following the war, he served with a group of Christian Evangelists known as The Pilgrim Preachers, who toured the British Isles.

  Mr. Lawrence came to the United States in 1927, then returned to Wales in 1928, then came back to the states in 1929, the year he was married to Miss Norris.

  Mr. Lawrence said two of the most memorable moments in his life was when he was converted to God in 1914, in Wales, and when he became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 1933 in Appanoose County, Iowa. He was always proud and happy to be a citizen of the United States.

  During World War II, he worked in Christian canteens for service men in various cities of the United States. From 1947 through 1950, he led a group of young Christian men known as "Gospel Messengers on Tour." He had been a minister for 49 years, and during that time served the Gospel Chapel in Centerville, Iowa, until his death.

  He had been in charge of a radio program, "Gospel Tidings" over radio station KCOG since its inception in 1949.

  David Lawrence died August 3, 1963, and was buried in Jerome, Iowa, cemetery.

Lloyd William Norris, 1911-1967

Unionville Republican [MO] - May 1967

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

  Lloyd W. Norris, Unionville, Missouri, age 56 years and 24 days, passed away at his home in Unionville, Missouri Saturday, May 27, 1967.

  He was born in Seymour, Iowa May 3, 1911, and was the son of Charles G. and Martha Louisa Elliott Norris, who have preceded him in death.

  On December 20, 1937, he was united in marriage to Edith L. Adamson, at Plattsburgh, Mo., and to this union four children were born. One son, David, of Harris, Mo.; three daughters, Barbara Early of Urbana, Ill., Gale Curry of Iowa City, Ia., and Marsha of Cedar Falls, Ia.; and two granddaughters, Rachel Norris and Joyce Early. Also two brothers, Hobart, who lives north of Unionville, Mo., on the Iowa-Missouri line and Verl, of Cambria, Iowa.

Lloyd William Norris and his wife

Edith Leona Adamson - 1953

  Lloyd was a well known and high respected implement dealer, and has been engaged in this field of endeavor since 1947. He was also one of the largest dealers in IHC trucks in the midwest, and had been recognized for this achievement numerous times. He dealt in stock extensively, farmed successfully, being in business with his son, David, for several years.

Norris Implement Company, Unionville, MO, Early 1950s

  As president of our Putnam County Lake Board, he served this project diligently and untiringly, and with wisdom and foresight of what this held for the future of the residents of this county and surrounding communities, never once faltered in seeking the groundwork laid, and was constantly pursuant toward the goal of completion in an unselfish and determined manner.

  Besides his parents preceding him in death, there was a brother, Boyd. He was a twin of Lloyd's and passed away at the age of 3.

  Funeral services were held Wednesday, May 31st, 1967 at 1:30 p.m., from Comstock Funeral Home, in Unionville, Mo., with Wayne Norris, a nephew of Greenfield, Ia. officiating.

Funeral Card for Lloyd W. Norris

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary, funeral card, and pictures to The Jerome Journal by Gale Norris of Unionville, MO.

Hobart Elliott Norris, 1895-1992

Unionville Republican [MO] - February 1992

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

  Hobart E. Norris, 96, a resident of Unionville, died Friday, January 31, 1992 at his home.

  The son of Charles and Martha Elliott Norris, he was born October 11, 1895 at Numa, Iowa.

  On November 22, 1919 in Des Moines, Iowa he married Lola Alice Packard and she preceded him in death. Four children were born to this union.

  On June 2, 1960 in Centerville, Iowa he married Elizabeth Atkins and she survives.

  Also surviving are one daughter, Charlene Griswold; two sons, Robert and Verba Norris and Donald and Donna Norris, all of Unionville; ten grandchildren, Ronald Norris, Waterloo, Iowa, Deborah Griswold Roney, Gilroy, Calif., Katharine Lee Mika, Michigan, Randall Griswold, Jean Ann Garten, Paula McCormack, Jeff Norris, Doug Norris, Patricia Carter and Michael Norris, all of Unonville; twenty great-grandchildren, Jessica Miller, Douglas Roney, Andrea Roney, all of Gilroy, Calif., Brandon Bennett, Brant McCormack, Amy McCormack, all of Unionville, Robert Young, Rachelle Mika, Katie Mika, Jacob Mika, Jason Maring, Jennifer Norris, LOea Ann Norris,  Bradley Norris, Joseph Carter, Marty Carter, Wesley Carter, Ronald Norris, Patrick Norris, and Kathrine Norris; five great-great-grandchildren, Justin Miller, David Norris, Sherri Norris, Roberta Norris and Jason Norris; and an adopted sister, Helen Rigger Messersmith.

  He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Howard Norris; three grand-children, David Richard, Robert Norris and Karen Norris; three brothers, Vurl Norris, Lloyd Norris, an infant, Boyd Norris; and a step-son, Ralph Belles.

  He attended elementary school in Numa and graduated from the Seymour High School.

  He enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 31, 1917 [entered service at Chicago, IL*] and served in WWI in France [1 May 1918 to 13 June 1919*]. He was honorably discharged on June 18, 1919 at Mitchell Field, New York [Discharge recorded in Centerville, Appanoose County, IA, on 23 June 1921; Serial No. 783457*] .

  Hobart farmed in Cincinnati, Iowa and later owned the Prospect Dairy in Centerville, Iowa for nine years. He moved to Putnam County in 1941. He retired in 1954 and began spending the winder months in Florida.

  He was a member of Prosperity Lodge #504 A.F. & A.M., Cincinnati, Iowa, Moila Shrine Temple at St. Joseph, Kaaba Shrine in Davenport, Iowa, the American Legion, and a member of Centerville Elks Lodge. Hobart was active for many years in the 4-H clubs and was a member of the school board when West Putnam was formed.

  Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, February 3, 1992 in the Comstock Funeral Home with Evangelist Sammy Valentine officiating. Interment was in the Unionville Cemetery.

  Pallbearers were Doug Norris, Jeff Norris, Dwaine McCormack, David Roney, Paul Mika, Randy Garten and Randall Griswold.

  Vocalist Joy Butler sang In the Garden and Beyond the Sunset accompanied by Shirley Comstock, organist. 

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of the above obituary to  The Jerome Journal by Gale Norris of Unionville, MO.
  *Information in [ ]s related to his military service from Veteran's Record compiled by American Legion Post #180 in Seymour, IA. 

WWI Veteran Keeps Comrades' Memories Alive

Daily Iowegian - November 1985

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

By Denise Mart, City Editor

  Ninety-year-old Hobart Norris, a World War I veteran who likes to tell stories about his tour of duty in France and about his grandfather serving in the Civil War, believes today's young people don't fully understand the significance of Memorial Day.

  "I think there are too many other activities that young people are educated to, instead of going to activities put on by the organizations," Norris said, explaining that many people today look at Memorial Day Weekend as a vacation.

  "We ought to be getting this new generation stimulated to the activities of the older generation, like the Memorial Day Services," he said.

  On Oct. 31, 1917, Norris enlisted in a branch of the United States Army called the Quarter Master Corps.

  "Military service runs in my family.  And I think this (American) flag means more to a man who has served it that to one that didn't," he said.

  During Norris' training in Jacksonville, Fla., he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and was assigned to teaching other enlistees how to ride horses. He said he was given this position because of his experience with horses while growing up on a farm.

  In early 1918, after training ended, Norris was stationed in Saint Nazaire, France. His assignment was evacuating horses from the front line to be taken to a recuperation station near Switzerland. At this station Norris was in charge of giving the horses medical attention and feeding them until they were ready to be re-issued.

  "We had to pay $285 for a horse and a man didn't cost anything, so we had to take care of the horses," he said.

  After the signing of the Armistice agreement on Nov. 11, 1918, Norris was assigned to the dty of closing all final statements of solders who died during a flu epidemnic and were buried at sea, and for soldiers who had died in France.

  He was given a special discharge order in June of 1919 and returned home to farm with his father.

  Norris, who usually represents World War I veterans at Memorial Day Services, said he plans to attend this year's American Legion services on the town square and at Oakland Cemetery.

  On Memorial Day Norris said he likes to reflect on his association with veterans, especially those whom he served with in France.

  "It brings memories of the past, and makes me think I'm one of them," he said.

  He said everyone should think of Memorial Day as a time to "remember the past, remember loved ones and those who served the country."

  Norris lives in Centerville with his wife, Alice, and is actively involved withthe oeration of a 1,260-acre farm in Missouri.

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of the above article to The Jerome Journal by Gale Norris of Unionville, MO.

William Washington Elliott, 1845-1927

Past and Present of Lucas and Wayne Counties Iowa

Chicago: The S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1913

Volume II, Pages 50-53

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     For several years William W. Elliott has lived retired in Seymour and by reason of his high standards of integrity and his honorable and upright life has gained the confidence and esteem of many friends. He is a native of Indiana, born in Morgan county, February 18, 1845, and is a son of Brooks and Martha Elliott, natives of Kentucky. In the early days of his career the father of our subject moved into Indiana and there resided until his death, which occurred when his son William W. was only one month old, and only eight days after the death of his wife. Following the death of his parents, the subject of this review was taken into the home of his sister, Mrs. John Bradley. This family left Indiana in the fall of 1854 and moved into Iowa, locating in Appanoose county, where William W. Elliott attended school. 

He was a lad of sixteen at the outbreak of the Civil war and was, in consequence, unable to enlist until 1863, in which year he joined Company H, Eighth Iowa Cavalry, under command of M. M. Walden. He served until the close of the war and was mustered out at Macon, Georgia, on the 13th of August, 1865, receiving his honorable discharge. During the period of his enlistment he saw active service all the time and once was in the thick of a battle or a skirmish every day for thirty-three consecutive days. He was with Sherman on his Atlanta campaign and at Noonan, Georgia, was wounded in his right leg and his horse was killed under him by the same bullet. He suffered from this wound for ten years. On McCook's raid, which took place on July 30, 1864, Mr. Elliott was captured by the rebels and remained in prison for four months, during which time he was afflicted four times with gangrene in his leg. Mis horse fell upon the leg which was not infected and Mr. Elliott has always been more or less disabled as a result of his injuries. After his discharge he returned to Appanoose county and settled on a farm on the 1st of September, 1865. He carried on general agricultural pursuits until 1896 and then moved into Seymour, where he has since lived retired, with the exception of the years from 1907 to 1911, when he resided in Mt. Pleasant in order to educate his children.

     On April 1, 1866, Mr. Elliott married Miss Amanda S. Manning, a daughter of John and U. B. (Morgan) Manning, natives of Ohio, who came to Iowa in 1850 and to Appanoose county in 1854. Mr. and Mrs. Elliott became the parents of three children: Martha L., who married Charles G. Norris, of Numa, Appanoose county; William, who died in infancy; and Edna Love, who lives at home. They are people of wide charity and practical benevolence and at different times have given a good home to five children who were left orphans. They are devout members of the Methodist Episcopal church and in their lives exemplify the doctrines in which they believe.

     Mr. Elliott has firm faith in the principles of prohibition and gives an active and helpful support to the prohibition party. He keeps in touch with his comrades of fifty years ago through his membership in the Grand Army of the Republic, in which he has attained a place of distinction. He has twice been commander of William Kellogg Post, No. 186, and served for two terms in the same position in McParland Post, No. 20, at Mount Pleasant, Iowa. All the relations of his life have been distinguished by the same steadfast courage and perseverance which marked his work on the southern battlefields and his entire career has been a credit and honor to a man who once proved himself a valorous soldier.

William W. Elliott & His Grandson William Lloyd Norris
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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this article and pictures to The Jerome Journal by Gale Norris of Unionville, MO.

Wayne K. Norris, 1908-1912

The Evening Gazette - Cedar Rapids, Iowa 
7 September 1912

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  Centerville -- Wayne Norris, son of Mr. and Mrs. Guthrie Norris, died at the hospital here as the result of being kicked by a mule.

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Editor's Note:  Wayne Norris was buried in the Jerome Cemetery.

Francis Edna Norris Lawrence, 1893-1993

Daily Iowegian - April 1993

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  Francis Edna Lawrence, 99, a resident of the Corydon Care Center for the past four years, died at the Corydon Care Center on Saturday, April 17, 1993.

  She was born Nov. 26, 1893, in Sioux City, the daughter of Jacob A. and Anna A. Norris, former residents of Numa.

  She married David Lawrence on Feb. 17, 1929, in Numa. He preceded her in death on Aug. 3, 1963.

  Also preceding her in death were a sister and six brothers, including Percy E. Norris of Centerville.

  Survivors include a sister, Mrs. Lou White of Hopkins, Minn., and numerous nieces and nephews.

  She attended the Centerville Gospel Chapel.

  Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 22, 1993, at 10 a.m. at the Lange Funeral Home in Centerville, with Pastor Tom Wright of Elkhart, Ind., officiating.

  Visitation will be held Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Lange Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Jerome cemetery.

  A memorial has been established to the Centerville Gospel Chapel.

Isaac Guthrie Norris, 1867-1947

Daily Iowegian - 23 December 1947

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  Funeral services for Guthrie Norris, 80, who died [22 December 1947] in Marshalltown, will be held from the Jerome church at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon, December 26. Burial will be at Jerome.

  Mr. Norris, who was a brother to Charles Norris, living at the Iowa-Missouri line south of Cincinnati, and an Uncle to Percy Norris, Centerville garage man, had formerly lived in this county. He was a farmer and had also been in the harness business. Mr. and Mrs. Norris left his county some 30 years ago.

  Death came following a months illness and took place at Marshalltown Monday night.

  The widow Austa [Osta] Norris, survives together with two sons Harley, of Berkely, California and Claude, of Marshall-town. In addition to Charles Norris, a sister also survives and is Mrs. Lana Brown, of Ames. Mr. Norris will be remembered by many of the older residents of the Centerville-Numa vicinities.

Osta Kinney Norris, 1871-1963

Daily Iowegian - 1 July 1963

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  Osta Kinney Norris passed away Sunday [30 June 1963] at Jewell, Iowa. She left Jerome a number of years ago and had made her home in and around Marshalltown, Iowa.

  She was born Jan. 26, 1871, in Appanoose county one mile west of Jerome, Iowa. She was the oldest of the nine children of Jessie G. and Louisa Kinney. She was a membe of the Methodist Church for many years.

  She is survived by three sons, Harley of Oakland, Cal., Claude of Marshalltown and Otis of Jewell, Ia., and one brother, George of Cincinnati. She was preceded in death by a son, Wayne.

  Funeral services will be held at the Jerome Methodist church Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock.

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The Seymour Herald - 4 July 1963

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  Mrs. Osta Norris, 92, died Sunday, June 30, in Jewell, Iowa, where she had been living several years. She was born Jan. 26, 1871, one mile west of Jerome, Iowa, the daughter of Jesse and Louise Kinney.

  She married Oct. 1, 1890, to Guthrie Norris of Numa, Iowa, the Rev. E. A. Robinson officiating.

  They made their home at Seymour, Iowa, until 1912, when they moved to Cedar Rapids. In 1940 Mr. and Mrs. Norris moved to Marshalltown. The last 12 years Mrs. Norris had lived in Berkeley, Calif., and Jewell. She was a life-long member of the Methodist church.

  She was preceded in death by her husband and a son, Wayne; three sisters and three brothers.

  Surviving are three sons: Harlie R., Berkeley, Calif.; Claude R., Marshalltown, and Otis, Jewell; also a brother, George Kinney, Cincinnati, Iowa,  five grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

  Service will be conducted at 2 p.m., Friday, July 5, in the Jerome Methodist church. Burial will be in Jerome Cemetery.

Gravestone in Jerome Cemetery for 

Guthrie and Osta Kinney Norris

Row 6, Block 11, Lot 5

Willa Mae Thompson Norris, 1913-1988

Daily Iowegian - October 1988

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  Willa Mae "Billie" Norris, 74, of Centerville died Sunday at her home.

  She was born Dec. 14, 1913 to William A. and Lillie J. Godwin Thompson in Garden Grove, Iowa. She married Percy E. Norris in Des Moines on Sept. 6, 1936.

  She attended Centerville schools, graduating in 1933. After her marriage she and her husband made their home in Centerville. She was preceded in death by her husband on Jan. 6, 1978.

  Survivors are one daughter, Carolyn Owen of Centerville; three sons, John D. Norris of Estes Park, Colo., Robert E. Norris of Yorba Linda, Calif., and Richard M. Norris of Montgomery, Ala.; six grandchildren; three sisters, Winnie James of Weldon, Iowa, Carrie Spinks of Corydon, and Helen Leest of Redlands, Calif.; and three brothers, Wayne Thompson of Centerville, Carl Thompson of Promise City, and Don Thompson of Fairfield Bay, Ark.

  She was a member of the Gospel Church in Centerville.

  Services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Miller-Wehrle and Lange Funeral Home in Centerville with her brother-in-law, Pastor George D. Leest of Redlands, Calif., officiating. Burial will be in the Jerome Cemetery. A memorial has been established to the "Christian Missions in Many Lands" and may be left at the funeral home.

Edward Potter Inman, 1893-1979

Daily Iowegian - 8 May 1979

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  Services for Edward P. Inman, 86, were held Monday, May 8, at Liggett-Randolph Funeral Home in Seymour, with the Rev. Ron Johnson officiating.

  He died suddenly at his home near Numa Friday, May 4, 1979.  Born April 23, 1893, near Livingston, Ia., he was the eldest son of Alexander and Larus Inman. With the exception of approximately five years in southeast Missouri and one year in South Dakota, he spent his entire life in Appanoose County as a farmer and coal miner.

  On November 28, 1917, he was married to Cleo O. Norris, and they were the parents of seven sons. His wife, Cleo, one son, Lazelle, his parents and three brothrs, George, Howard and Miles, preceded him in death.

  He was married August 20, 1960, to Mattie Tishaw. He is survived  by his wife, six sons, Byron, Wendell, Mildred, Arthur, Kenneth and Donald; one stepson, Thomas Craig; 16 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Loren and David; and one sister, Myrle Miller.

  Burial was in Jerome Cemetery. A memorial fund has been established at the Seymour Civic Center in Seymour.