St. Clair County Obits

WILLIAM WHITLEY

St. Clair County Democrat
Thursday, 28 August 1919
William Whitley
William Whitley, son of John and Margaret Whitley, was born March 10, 1840; passed away August 14, 1919, at the age of 79 years, 5 months and 4 days. Uncle Bill, as he was familiarly known, died on the farm and within a few feet of the foundation of the old building in which he was born. He was united in marriage to Sarah A. Grant, April 10, 1964, she having departed this life in January, 1902. To this union were born four children: Elizabeth F., who died at the age of 12, Coleman, Mrs. J.H. Lusk and Anna, who still own the old farm. Four grandchildren are living: Dorris, Maud, Willie and Edith, children of Coleman.
The Whitleys were truly pioneers, being among the first settlers of St. Clair County, coming here before the Indians were gone. To those who know the sturdy, straightforward, highly, honorable character of the early settler of Missouri and especially St. Clair County it is useless to mention the sterling qualities of such men as Uncle Bill Whitley. The writer has known him personally for 38 years and never during that time heard any man say aught against him, but have heard many highly commendatory remarks. The family has lost a kind and generous father; the community a citizen that will not soon be forgotten. During about seven years almost constant confinement to his room, he demonstrated the kind and considerate disposition, that as so noticeable throughout life.
He had long been a member of the Christian Church at Pape, and the high esteem, in which he was held was shown by the large crowd of people, who followed him to his last resting place.
A friend.