The Carthage Republican
Carthage, Illinois
Wednesday
October 8, 1913
Page 5
Column 4Although not unexpected, it was with much sorrow that the many relatives and friends of Royal Brandon learned of his death, which occurred at his home one-half mile south of Fountain Green, on the morning of Oct. 2, 1913.
Stricken down in the very prime of stalwart manhood, with so much to make life worth living; so much needed by the loved ones in the home; so useful in the church and community; so conscientiously faithful in all these departments of life his passing away is a universal loss, greatly regretted and deeply mourned.
Royal Brandon was born March 10, 1875. He was the eldest son of Geo. M. and Laura (Geddes) Brandon. Of his family there survive the mother, one sister, Mrs. Maude Wilson, of Tarkio, Mo.; two brothers, Robert, of Omaha, Neb.; and Lynn, of Fountain Green. Royal has spent his entire life in the home which was his birthplace, here he passed a happy boyhood, carefully guided by a christian father and mother. He early developed sterling qualities of characters, which in maturer years gave him a permanent place in the esteem and deep regard of the many friends, who now sorrow with this family in the great bereavement that as come to them. Royal was liberally educated. After his public school days, he received a collegiate training at Carthage college, from which institution he graduated in 1899. His work in the class room, his genial disposition, with his fondness for healthy, wholesome fun made him popular in college circles. Upon reaching the threshold of life's active duties, he decided upon the legal profession as the one which appealed to him most strongly. But after reading law for a few months, the death of his father in 1900, made his presence in the home imperative. Setting aside his own plans, he returned to the farm and has since given his time to its management and cultivation.
On June 1st, 1905, Royal was united in marriage to Miss Mary Miller of near Fountain Green. Their home has been blessed by the coming of three dear children, two daughters, Genevieve and Geraldine, and one son, R. B., his fond father's special pride. This devoted wife and the little ones, so greatly bereft of the love which has shielded and sheltered them, have the heartfelt sympathy of all.
Royal was converted in early life, and united with the Presbyterian church in Fountain Green, and has been actively identified with its interests for many years. He is also a member of the order of Odd Fellow's and the Woodman lodge. He has been especially prominent in musical circles. He possessed a large degree of talent which had been carefully developed, and is fine cultivated voice, with its range and power, gave much pleasure to music lovers. He was in great demand upon funeral occasions, where he gave his time and services kindly and generously, often at the sacrifice of his own plans. He continued to respond to such calls, even when his own physical condition made the effort a severe drain upon his limited strength. For many years Royal's vigorous manhood gave promise that length of days would be his portion. The first hint of failing health came some fourteen months ago when an internal trouble developed, that from its inception, baffled medical skill. With the hope that surgical aid might bring relief, he went to Rochester, Minn., and entered the institute of the Mayo Brothers, but examination revealed a cancerous condition, from which ultimate recovery could not be expected. He returned home where the remaining months have been marked by increasing physical weakness, and at times great pain and suffering. But those who called to sympathize with a sick man, went away to wonder at the brave spirit that refused to be discouraged, and at the condition of mind and heart in which there seemed no room for repining or impatience to find lodgement. The energy and interest he manifested in planning and directing his business affairs, his forgetfullness of self, his uniform cheerfulness, led his dear ones to long cherish the belief that his condition could not be without hope of ultimate improvement. The last ten days he grew speedily worse and with a rapid decline the long conflict ended.
Royal Brandon was a hero. His brave spirit triumphed gloriously over the infirmities of the flesh; bore cheerfully and submissively the setting aside of his earthly plans and purposes, the breaking of the dearest earthly ties, and with an unfailing trust he passed on to receive the reward of those who have fought a good fight who have kept the faith. He has joined the heavenly chorus. His voice mingles with the anthems of the blest. M. W. B.
