Hancock County Historical Society
Carthage, IllinoisObit 12
Page 43How true the saying, "We know not what an hour may bring; that to-day we are and to-morrow we are not." Such a realization has come to a happy home in our community and hung it in the weeds of mourning. Mrs. Mary Walton died suddenly at her home three miles northeast of Denver last Friday at 4:20 p. m. Mrs. Walton, though not well, had been about the house in her usual avocations during the day, ate her dinner at the usual hour, and did some sewing in the evening. Later, while sitting in a rocker, she said she was getting sick, and asked to be helped to the lounge, nearby, which was done. She soon lapsed into unconsciousness. Dr. Seigfried, in response to a phone message, made a quick drive to the scene of trouble, but Mrs. Walton died in a few minutes after his arrival. The doctor pronounced the immediate cause of her death cerebral hemorrhage. She had a similar attack, though in a lighter form, about a year ago, and one still lighter a few months ago.
Mrs. Walton was a daughter of the venerable A. J. Clark, of Denver. Her death was the first break in a family of eight children -- all grown and married. She was born and raised in Harmony township, and died at the age of 54 years, 6 months and 22 days. On the 14th day of February, 1867, she was married to W. C. Walton, who died about eight years ago. They occupied an ideal home. Mrs. Walton leaves four children to feel the loss of a dear mother. They are Frederic, Miss Annie, Miss Etta and Ray. She is also survived by four sisters -- Mrs. Wm. Scott, Mrs. Dr. Wade, Mrs. E. Walton, Mrs. George Campbell; and by three brothers -- J. L. Clark, T. J. Clark and John A. Clark, all of whom were soon at their dead sister's side. Their mother died a few years ago.
Deceased was a member of the Missionary Baptist church thirty-three years, and discharged all duties in love and fidelity. She was a devoted wife and mother, a kind neighbor and true friend. A whole community mourns her loss.
The funeral was held at the family home on Sunday at 11 o'clock, and was conducted by Prof. Barber. Many looked on the face of the dead in peaceful sleep. The interment took place at Harmony cemetery.
