Lydia Cornelius Coffman, oldest daughter of John and Cornelia Cornelius was born in Ogle Co., Ill., May 27, 1864 and died at the home of her sister, Mrs. C. E. Wells, at Waterloo, Ia., October 21, 1919, aged 55 years, 4 months, and 26 days. Mrs. Coffman lived her entire life in vicinity of Polo. When 19 years of age, she was united in marriage to William Coffman. To this union four sons were born. The first born went immediately to the Glory World. Some years later little William Walker was kicked by a horse and soon passed away. These dear little ones have now been reunited with the mother whose loving heart has yearned for them all these years.

Over thirty years ago, Mrs. Coffman accepted the call of the Savior and united with the United Brethren Church of which her husband was a member. They were active workers for many years in the little church near their home known as “Providence Chapel.” This church was afterward moved away and they have been without a church home. A short time ago, Mrs. Coffman united with the Church of the Brethren. She was also a member of the W. C. T. U.

Several years ago, Bright’s Disease laid its deadly hold upon her. At times her suffering had been almost unendurable. Everything that could be done to stay the ravages of this dreadful disease was done but all failed.

Several weeks ago, her sister, who is a nurse, came from Waterloo to help care for her. They spent several days in the Dixon Hospital, and were successful in getting some relief from suffering. Her eyesight was almost gone. They brought her home. Her physicians thought she might live for many weeks yet and thought a change in surroundings for a few weeks might be a benefit to her. With that In view she was taken to Waterloo. She enjoyed meeting her loved ones there but her stay was short. They arrived in Waterloo on Friday evening. On Tuesday morning, she began to lose consciousness and on Wednesday at 9:40, she calmly fell asleep.

In her passing we lose a devoted wife, a good mother and a dear sister. She spent her life for those she loved. We will all miss her but hope to meet her where partings shall be no more.

She is survived by her husband and two sons: Charles and Alvin; three grandchildren, Theda, Lila and William Robert, children of Charles and Bessie Coffman. She is also survived by her mother, Mrs. John Cornelius of Waterloo, Ia., and the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. Clara Wells, Mrs. Ella Harbaugh, Mrs. Minnie King and A. R. Cornelius, all of Waterloo, Mrs. Ida Miller and J. R. Cornelius of Monticella, Minn., and Mrs. Della Rizner of Big Lake. Minnesota.

Her son Charles arrived in Waterloo after she had passed away. Her mother and Mr. and Mrs. S. M. Harbaugh accompanied him with the remains to Polo. The funeral was held at the home Friday P. M. at two o’clock, services were being conducted by Rev. Lampin and Rev. Wine, ministers of the Church of the Brethren. There were many beautiful floral offerings. She was carried to her last resting place in Fairmount Cemetery by her nephews.

Contributed by Julie Bartimus (source unknown)

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