Joseph Henry McPherson

Born in Washington Co, Maryland, Dec. 8, 1834, departed this life Dec. 23, 1915. Henry was the second of a family of ten children, all having preceded him to the spirit world except Jacob, the youngest who is still living in Washington Co., MD.

In 1860, he was united in marriage to Mary A. Stone, also of Maryland and lived a happy married life for almost 56 years. To this union were born four children: Sarah Jane Ambrose of Auburn, IL; Susan Irene Shaw, who died in Feb. 1914; Mary Sophia Jones of Dixon, Ill; and Jas. S. of Oregon, Ill. He has also living 17 granchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Over fifty years ago in March 1864, he and his companion moved to Illinois settling in Ogle County, where they have resided ever since.
For many years, he was a member of the Lutheran Church, but united with the Church of the Brethren in 1894, having lived a faithful consistant Christian life. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a good citizen and neighbor. His kindly gentle spirit was worthy of imitation. He was a faithful attendant at church services and will be greatly missed not only by his life companion and loved ones but by all who knew him. It was always his delight to read his bible, and during his dying hour he repeated such portions of it as the 23rd Psalm and the Lord's Prayer.

"With thee, my Lord, with thee, I do not fear
To cross the threshold of the mystic door
I shall not falter if I find thee near,
For thou hast placed the portico before.
Let me but feel Thy hand. Thy features see,
I shall emerge in happiness with Thee"

Funeral services were held at the Pine Creek Church of the Brethren Sunday at 2 P.M., conducted by Elders M. W. Emmert, Wm. Lampin and C.C. Price. Burial was made in Pine Creek Cemetery.

Tri-County Press, Polo, IL Jan. 6, 1916

Contributed by Gary Shaw

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