Hancock County Historical Society Siegfried V
Page 180Selden T. Seward
Selden T. Seward, a well and favorably known resident of Fountain Green passed away on the evening of April 10, 1934, aged 74 years, 5 months and 2 days.
This summons came after a long decline in health; increasing weakness being noted, and his enfeebled condition more marked these later months; yet withal nothing evident that might cause immediate alarm. But suffering an extreme and violent seizure, he failed to rally and his sudden passing brings a great shock and sadness to his devoted wife, who has been his most kind and devoted caretaker during the long months of semi-invalidism. Selden Seward was the son of Thomas and Nancy (Pennington) Seward. He was born in Garnett, Kansas, Nov. 8, 1859.
Bereft of a father's care in early childhood, he was brought by his mother to Fountain Green, and with the exception of a short sojourn in Macomb, Ill., has ever since held residence in this community. He was united in marriage to Edna Williams, Feb. 16, 1888. Three children were born to them. Grace, the eldest grew to attractive girlhood and was married to Henry Reed. Her passing in 1917 brought great grief to her loved ones. Surviving with the bereft wife, to mourn this dear father are Frank Seward of Rock Falls, Ill., and Mrs. Martha Stevens of Macomb. There are also three grandchildren -- Harold Reed, Maurine and Maxine Stevens. Mr. Seward followed farming for many years.
Later the family removed to their comfortable cottage home in Fountain Green, where he was always found ready to engage in any honest labor in which his services might be needed. Seldon made public profession of his faith in Christ during the well-remembered revival meetings of Billy Sunday's held in Carthage many years ago. The M. E. church was his preference, and he was a very regular attendant as long as the congregation continued in Fountain Green.
He then attended the Presbyterian services and was very useful to its people in his capacity as the faithful and efficient caretaker of the church building, which position he most satisfactorily filled for many years. Thus his useful and upright life was spent -- in useful activities, and at peace with God and man. M. W. B.
Funeral services for Mr. Seward were held Thursday morning at 10:30 in the church at Majorville, conducted by Rev. J. M. Thompson, pastor of the Presbyterian church of this place. Rev. Thompson spoke from the words found in Phil. 1:21 -- "For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." His words were of comfort and cheer for the life beyond, for those who put their trust in the Lord.
A quartette, composed of Mesdames [sic] George Miller and Leland Hobart, Messrs. Arthur Spangler and Att. Duffy sang the beautiful songs which were favorites and very dear to the deceased and his family. Mrs. George Latherow was the accompanist. Burial was in the family lot at Majorville.
