An
annotated clipping for informational purposes only. Information
linked to is not guaranteed or endorsed by this website. Always verify
information with multiple resources.
Our Best Words, January 1912, p 2 c 3 James M. Riddle passed
from his home, Mattoon, Ill., to his Father’s house of many mansions,
Nov. 17th, 1911. Age, over 91 years. The funeral was at the
home on Sunday, Nov. 19. Rev. Jasper L. Douthit a friend of the
deceased for nearly 40 years, officiated, assisted by Rev. Arthur M.
Smith, of the Presbyterian church, Mattoon. Rev. Smith gave the
prayer. Mrs. Elizabeth McNair, for many years teacher of music in
the public schools of Mattoon, sang: “Lead Kindly Light” and
other songs. Dr. Chas. Boaz of the Baptist church read the
obituary notice as follows:
James M. Riddle was the son of Matthew and Sallie Dole
Riddle, both of New Bedford, NH. They came West after their marriage
(in) Hamilton county, Indiana, where James, the oldest son was born,
Oct. 31, 1820. This son was married Nov. 17th, 1843 to Harriet
Ogen. In 1856, he brought his family to Mattoon. Of the
seven children born to this marriage, two, Sarah and Jennie have passed
away. Mrs. Helen Schzenche who lives near Charleston, Illinois,
was unable to be present on account of illness. The others are
Mr. Harvey S. Riddle, and the three daughters, Carrie, Anna and Hattie,
with whom he lived. For many years he had been interested in
fruit farming, until obliged to abandon active employment, because of
failing eyesight. Naturally of a sweet, generous disposition, his
memory, in most things good, refused to retain any thing unpleasant.
There was nothing for him ever to forgive, for every thing unpleasant
was forgotten. He passed away on the 65th anniversary of his
marriage. Altho never entirely free from pain, he was able to be
dressed and be about the home every day until the very morning he
dressed himself and suddenly and peacefully breathed his last.”
“Father Riddle” was truly a noble old man, free from
habits that defile the body and dwarf mind and soul. He had
implicit faith in an absolutely good God. He was among the first
faithful worshippers at Unity Church, Mattoon. His life was a
benediction to all who knew him. His children rose up to call him
blessed and cared for him most tenderly in his last years. He
lived his lifetime on the Sunny Side of Thanksgiving Street, so to
speak.
“I cannot think and will not say
That he is dead, he is just away.
With a cheery smile and wave of the hand,
He has gone away to that happy land.”
