Obituaries, Death Notices, and Funeral Notices - Si-Sq
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Signs, Charles
Flourtown. Mr. Charles Signs, of Wheel Pump, who had been suffering with a cancer in the mouth, died on Sunday evening. The funeral will be held on Friday afternoon. Meet at the house at one o'clock. Interment at Ivy Hill cemetery.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, December 14, 1899, p. 6. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sill, George, Caleb Heydrick, and Mrs. George Sheetz
The remains of Caleb Heydrick were laid to rest last Thursday in Union cemetery, Whitemarsh. The funeral was a very large one. Services were held in Zion Lutheran church. Rev. Dr. Sheeleigh and Revs. J. Eugene Dietterich, D.N. Dittmar and L.B. Hafer were present. A peculiar circumstance was the interment of three very old persons in this cemetery on three succeeding days. Caleb Heydrick was 92, Mrs. George Sheetz was buried on Friday, having died aged 84. On Saturday Rev. George Sill was buried in the cemetery. He was 78. Mrs. Sheetz was the widow of a retired farmer, who died several years ago. At one time he owned the farm on the Skippack pike near Broad Axe, which Edward Barnes afterwards sold to Mr. Price, of chestnut Hill. For several years she had been residing in Flourtown. Rev. Sill 25 years ago was pastor of Zion Lutheran church and lived at Broad Axe where Harry Stout now resides.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 13, 1898, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]
Simmers, Janet C.
Maple Glen. Janet C. Simmers, wife of Walter G. Simmers, and daughter of Daniel and Annie Campman, died at her parent's residence early Saturday morning, after a lingering illness of several months, in the 29th year of her age. The funeral was held from the residence of her parents near here, on Tuesday at 1 o'clock. Services were held in Upper Dublin Lutheran church at 2.30 o'clock. Interment was made in Rose Hill cemetery. After graduating from the public school at Three Tuns, the deceased took a course of stenography at Schissler's college, Norristown, after which she occupied a position in Philadelphia until within a short time of her marriage on Feb. 3, 1904. While past her suffering, she will be missed by a large number of relatives and friends.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, December 1, 1904, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Simmers, Susanna B.
Susanna B., wife of Joseph H. Simmers, of Maple Glen, died Sunday morning at 12.20 from a stroke of apoplexy, aged 68 years.
Deceased was the daughter of Abram and Mary Barnes and was born in Philadelphia. In 1856 she was married to Joseph H. Simmers, and for many years they resided at Dreshertown. In 1875 they moved to Maple Glen, taking the farm, now owned by J.H. Ringe, opposite the store. 12 years ago they took charge of the store, succeeding Halroyd & Gardner, where they have since resided and built up a large and prosperous business.
A husband, two sons, Walter of Philadelphia, and Edward, of Maple Glen, and a sister, Mary Ella, who resides at home, survive the deceased, who was a most estimable woman.
The funeral will be held this Thursday afternoon from her late residence, services being held in Upper Dublin Lutheran church at 2.30. Interment in Rose Hill cemetery.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, May 19, 1904, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Simpson, Mrs. Robert
Mrs. Robert Simpson died suddenly at her home in Philadelphia on Tuesday of last week and was buried on the following Friday. Mrs. Simpson's former name was Murphy, and at one time she was a teacher in Abington Friends' school. She was very well liked by the pupils of the school and all who knew here.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, December 27, 1894, p. 2. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sinclare, Jane
Flourtown. Miss Jane Sinclare died last We[d]nesday afternoon. The funeral was held Sunday afternoon, interment in Union cemetery, Whitemarsh.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 19, 1901, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]
Singerly, William M.
William M. Singerly, proprietor of the Philadelphia Record and president of the Chestnut Street National Bank and Chestnut Street Trust Company, died at 1 o'clock Sunday afternoon at his home, No. 1701 Locust street, Philadelphia. An autopsy showed that death was due to heart trouble, caused by worry over financial affairs. On December 23 last the banks of which Mr. Singerly was president failed, although it was popularly supposed that Mr. Singerly was a many times millionaire. He had large interests in a number of commercial manufactories and owned a pulp mill, which manufactured the paper used by "The Record."
The deceased was born in Philadelphia, December 27, 1832, the son of Joseph Singerly, a wealthy business man and pioneer in street railway construction. After graduating from the High School he secured a position as bookkeeper in a produce commission house. In 1860 he went into business in Chicago, but was soon called upon to take charge of his father's interests. In 1877 he secured control of "The Record," and the next year inherited his father's railway interests, valued at $1,500,000.
It was at this time that, in addition to other business interests, Mr. Singerly devoted much of his time to farming and stock raising. He owned about 800 acres of land in Gwynedd and Whitpain townships, with his "home Farm" at Franklinville. It was during his residence here that his devoted wife died, in whose memory he erected a beautiful memorial window in the Gwynedd Protestant Episcopal Church. Mr. Jason Sexton, now Assemblyman, was his principal manager and later purchased his Springhouse farm from the deceased. He was for a number of years Road Supervisor in Whitpain, and the highways in his vicinity testify to his progressive ideas in this respect. He spent much from his own means in this way.
He owned the Elkton Stock Farm, at Elkton, Cecil County, Md. At Elkton he also possessed one of the largest paper mills in the United States, from which he supplied not only paper for his own journal, but for many of the Government offices in Washington. He was the owner of the Temple Theatre, in Philadelphia, burned some years ago.
In 1887, upon the retirement of Governor Pattison from office, Mr. Singerly took an active part in establishing the Chestnut Street National Bank, of which the ex-Governor became the first president. Upon Mr. Pattison being called for a second time to the Governorship of Pennsylvania Mr. Singerly succeeded him as president of the Chestnut Street Trust and Savings Fund Company, and had large interests in manufacturing and other establishments.
In 1894 Mr. Singerly was unanimously made the Democratic candidate for Governor, and he entered with great energy into the campaign that followed, but was defeated by the present Republican incumbent, General Daniel H. Hastings. He was for 10 years Commissioner of Fairmount Park, a non-salaried office, and devoted much time to the development of that great pleasure ground.
Mr. Singerly leaves one daughter, Mrs. Balch, who is now in Europe; a brother, George W. Singerly; a granddaughter, Mabel Singerly Meredith, who was with him when he died and a grandson, William Singerly McCartney, son of James S. McCartney, treasurer of the Record Publishing Company.
The funeral took place this Wednesday afternoon, and interment was made in the family vault, at Laurel Hill Cemetery. The services were in charge of the Rev. Francis L. Robbins, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, at Greenfield, Mass., and Rev. John H. Converse, rector of the protestant Episcopal Church at Gwynedd.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 3, 1898, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sipe, Mary Anne
Andrew Smith's aged mother, Mrs. Mary Anne Sipe, died on Thursday last at the home of relatives in Philadelphia. The funeral was held last Monday afternoon.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 29, 1903, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sipe, Mary Anne
Jarrettown. Andrew Smith's aged mother, Mrs. Mary Anne Sipe, died on Thursday last at the home of relatives in Philadelphia. The funeral was held last Monday afternoon.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 29, 1903, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sleifer, Mrs. Charles
Flourtown. The funeral of Mrs. Charles Sleifer last Saturday was largely attended.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, October 24, 1901, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Slemmer, Margaretta
In Norristown, on the 12th inst., Mrs. Margaretta Slemmer, wife of Adam Slemmer, in the 73d year of her age. Funeral from the residence of A. Slemmer, Swede street, near Oak, Norristown, on Tuesday morning, at 10 o'clock.
[Source: Philadelphia Press, October 15, 1860, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]
Slifer, Josiah
Flourtown. Mr. Nace closed his school on Tuesday to attend the funeral of his brother-in-law, Josiah Slifer, of Philadelphia. Burial at St. Thomas, Whitemarsh.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 10, 1904, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Slingluff, Irvin
On Dec. 20th, Irvin, eldest son of George B. and Ellen Slingluff, of near Centre Square, in his 16th year of age. Funeral and interment at the Upper Dublin Brethren's church this Friday at 12.30 o'clock.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, December 22, 1898, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]
Slingluff, William H.
Death on Trolley Car. William H. Slingluff, of Blue Bell, Expires Suddenly. Apparently in the Best of Health He Plans to Go to Norristown--Stricken While Waiting for a Car at Hickorytown--Died on His Way to the Hospital.
William H. Slingluff, aged 76 years, a well known resident of Whitpain township, near Blue Bell, died suddenly Saturday morning while on his way from his home to Norristown.
Evincing a desire to go to the county seat Saturday morning his grandson, who was going to the Plymouth Valley creamery, took the deceased as far as Chalkley Styer's corner, and from there he walked to the Hickorytown school house, on the pike, where the Norristown trolley cars run. It is though that while waiting here for a car he was stricken with heart disease, for he was found lying in the road by two children of Robert Hews, who had gone to the schoolhouse to attend the fire in the heater. They found him lying on the ground partly under the ante-room, which is about three feet from the ground. They went to the hotel and reported the facts, when George Hipple, John Marple and another person took him out from under the building. He gasped, but was unconscious. They helped to put him on the trolley to send him to the hospital, but he was dead before he reached Norristown, having expired on the car. The body was taken to the undertaking establishment of D.J. Mowday, Norristown, before being removed to his home.
The deceased was the son of Henry Slingluff, who years ago owned the Dr. Elliger farm, on Bethlehem pike, Fort Washington, and later resided on the present Weiss farm, Skippack pike, near Broad Axe. He married a daughter of Levi Sheppard, of above Springhouse. Later he moved to his late residence in Whitpain. He was a very estimable man, well known as a progressive and successful farmer. He was elected supervisor of the township some years ago, and was at one time a director of the Peoples' National bank, of Norristown, and a director of the recently disbanded Skippack Turnpike Road company. A widow and four sons survive.
A brother of the deceased is John Slingluff, a Dunkard preacher, who married a daughter of the late Harper Nice, Sr.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 13, 1902, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Slingluff, William H.
Broad Axe. The funeral of William H. Slingluff, of Blue Bell, passed through our village on Thursday to the Dunkard church, near Ambler.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 20, 1902, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Slingluff, William H.
Broad Axe. John S. Schrieber and wife attended the funeral of the late William H. Slingluff on Thursday.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 20, 1902, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Slingluff, William H.
The funeral of the late William H. Slingluff was held on Friday last. A large concourse of neighbors and friends assembled at the house and heard an address by Rev. G.W. Nyce, of Royersford. The funeral arrived at the Upper Dublin Brethren's church about 1 o'clock, where services were continued by Rev. Jesse Zeigler. Mr. Slingluff reached the ripe age of 76 years, one month an d18 days. In 1852 he married Margaret Sheppard, who, with four sons, survives him. He was a member of the Brethren's church 45 years and a trustee and deacon 30 years. In his death the church has lost a staid and worthy member and contributor, one who will be remembered for what he has done.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 20, 1902, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sloman, Belle
Lansdale. On Monday took place the funeral of Mrs. Belle Sloman and her interment was in the Lansdale cemetery. She had died suddenly of heart failure on the Friday previous. She leaves a husband, Henry Sloman now in a city hospital and one son. The deceased was the daughter of the late John E. Cresson and about 50 years of age.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, October 15, 1903, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sloyer, Sophia
Sophia, wife of John R. Sloyer, died at her home, near Springtown, Bucks county, on Nov. 2, of old age, aged 80 years, eight months and 14 days. She is survived by her husband, John R. Sloyer, to whom she was married 54 years ago, four sons and four daughters, John A., of Springfield township; Thomas S., of Glenside; Philip, residing at home; Jacob H., of Springtown; Mrs. Albert Miller, of Springtown; Mrs. William Kressman, of Nockamixon township; Mrs. Oliver Young, of Phillipsburg, N.J., and Mrs. James Frederick, of Catasauqua. Also by one brother, Joseph Emery, of near Hellertown, and one sister, Mrs. Jonas Reichard, of Allentown. 18 grandchildren also survive. Deceased was a member of the Reformed congregation at old Williams.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, November 13, 1902, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Anna Barbara
Anna Barbara Smith, infant daughter of Jacob W. and Anna B. Smith, born July 27, 1902, died Jan. 11, 1903, aged five months and 15 days. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. M.G. Richard at the home of the deceased on Jan. 15. Interment in Rose Hill cemetery.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 29, 1903, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Barbara
Springhouse. Mrs. Barbara Smith was stricken with paralysis on April 14 and lingered unconscious until the 18th, when she died. She was a most estimable woman, very quiet in her way and in her younger days very active in Sunday school work, she having organized and acted as superintendent of a Sunday school in this vicinity. She owned a tract of land here, which she recently disposed of to different parties, the old homestead being the property now owned and occupied by F.E. Bond. Deceased was in her 77th year and leaves a husband and one daughter to mourn her loss. Interment was made on Friday at Rose Hill, Rev. M.G. Richard conducting the services.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 27, 1899, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Barbara
Springhouse. Samuel C. Custer and family, of Norristown, and Daniel Tranckler, of Centre Valley, attended the funeral of Mrs. Barbara Smith on Friday.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 27, 1899, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Catharine
On Sunday morning, March 11, 1900, Mrs. Catharine Smith died, widow of the late Charles Smith, who resided for many years at Rose Hill and from whom the beautiful cemetery was purchased. She was the mother of one son William, who located at Easton, Pa., but was employed in the P. & R. railroad service, and who a few years ago was killed by accident on the train; also one daughter, Mrs. John G. Davis, also resident at Rose Hill, who two years ago was stricken and died with Typhoid fever.
After the death of her children, with whom she divided her time, Mrs. Smith decided to make her home with her niece, Mrs. Harry Ellis, of Upper Providence, where she was kindly cared for. Mrs. Smith was well and favorably known in this community. The funeral is to take place this Thursday at 12 noon, at the Upper Dublin Brethren's church, whence services will be conducted and interment made.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 15, 1900, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Catharine
Broad Axe. The funeral of Catharine Smith, of Upper Providence, passed through here last week to Upper Dublin Brethren's church.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 22, 1900, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Elizabeth Furman
Elizabeth Furman, wife of Samuel S. Smith, died on Saturday in her 62d year. The funeral was held on Wednesday afternoon at her summer home in Horsham. She was a woman highly esteemed for her excellent qualities. She had been ill for several weeks.
The deceased, who was born in Philadelphia where she has since resided, was a daughter of the late David and Mary P. Furman, well known members of the Society of Friends, of which she also was a life-long member.
She is survived by her husband and two daughters, Margaret S. Furman and Mary F. Betts.
The funeral services, largely attended, were conducted according to the Society of Friends, appropriate remarks being made by Anna Way, of Philadelphia and Anna Webster, of Johnsville. Interment at Horsham Friends' burying ground.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, July 7, 1904, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, George Handy
Ex-State Senator George Handy Smith, for many years an interesting figure in Republican politics, died early Thursday evening at his residence, northeast corner of Broad and Tasker streets, in Philadelphia. In the autumn of 1896 Mr. Smith was thrown from his carriage near his summer residence at Gwynedd, and shortly after was stricken with paralysis. A long illness followed, from which the former senator never fully recovered. Six weeks ago he was attached with pneumonia, which developed into uraemic poisoning and caused his death. Last Saturday a week he was compelled to take to his bed. Early Wednesday evening he was visited by his physician. They were in the sitting room when the senator was suddenly seized with a spasm. Everything was done to relive him, but to no avail. His wife died about a year ago, and four daughters survive—Miss Annie M., Helen, wife of Joseph Haines, Virginia, wife of Clifton Peale, and Isabelle, wife of Nathan Sparing. Four grandchildren also survive him.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 21, 1898, p. 7. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, George Handy
Hoyt. Rev. John H. Converse, rector of the Episcopal church, officiated at the funeral service of Senator George Handy Smith. Quite a number of our people went down on Monday to the funeral.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 21, 1898, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, George W.
Mr. George W. Smith, a life-long resident of Glenside and Edge Hill, died Sunday morning. Funeral will be held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, May 13, 1897, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, J.B.
While J.B. Smith, of 2426 Delphi street, Philadelphia, aged about 50 years, was returning to his home from Quakertown last week the conductor of the train discovered that he was dead. His body was taken to Lansdale and placed in charge of the coroner.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 10, 1901, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, John
North Wales. John Smith, the veteran soldier, died Saturday. His funeral took place on Tuesday morning. Interment at St. Luke's Reformed cemetery.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, November 22, 1900, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Lewis F.
Lewis F. Smith, a former resident of the present borough of Ambler, died very suddenly Friday morning in Philadelphia. He had been ill with grip, but that morning had started as usual for his work at Cramp's shipyard, when he was stricken down in the street, dying instantly. He was 64 years of age. He was buried Monday afternoon from the residence of his daughter, Mrs. A.E. Moore, 1810 Allegheny avenue.
He was a soldier, having served during the whole of the Civil war. At the time of the struggle and on one of his trips home he brought up from Manassas to work on his father's farm Daniel Dowlin, the present street commissioner of Ambler.
The deceased owned the farm on Tennis avenue, a part of which is occupied by the Ambler Athletic association. About 20 years ago the property was purchased by Joseph Haywood, and Mr. Smith moved to Philadelphia. He leaves two daughters and a widow.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 2, 1899, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Lincoln E.
Spring Mill Drowning.
Dragging the bed of the Schuylkill river near Spring Mill Tuesday brought to the surface the body of Lincoln E. Smith, who was recently in the employ of a firm in dentistry in Philadelphia. Monday Smith's clothing was found on the river bank and it was their unexplained presence there that led to the dragging of the river. Near the clothing was a knife, a fact which gave rise to a suspicion of foul play, but Coroner McGlathery, after investigation, believes Smith committed suicide.
On Sunday afternoon Smith alighted from a train at Spring Mill. He walked about the station platform several minutes and then toward the river. That was the last time any one saw him until his body was taken from the river. Several persons, who talked with Smith while he was pacing the station platform are of the opinion that he was under the influence of liquor. His mother resides here, and had asked him to visit her on Sunday, but he failed to put in his appearance.
Smith was twice married. His first wife was Miss Kate Connor, who secured a divorce two years ago on the ground of desertion. Smith shortly afterwards went to Lebanon, where he opened a dental office. A little over a year ago he married Miss Annie R. Moyer, of Myerstown. After living together several months Smith and his wife separated. The dentist informed friends here that his wife was engaged as a professional nurse in the western part of the state. It has since been learned that she has been residing at Lititz. Smith informed a relative about two weeks ago that he had endeavored to effect a reconciliation with his wife. He brooded over his domestic troubles considerably, and it is claimed, drank considerably. A week ago he told his mother that if he did not succeeding in squaring himself with his wife he would do something desperate.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, July 5, 1900, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Mary
Mary, wife of Andrew Smith, died on Tuesday last. Mrs. Smith had been in delicate health for a long time. The funeral was held on Thursday, interment at Ivy Hill.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 30, 1903, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Reuben K.
On Tuesday morning, of consumption, at Salfordville, Montgomery county, Pa., Reuben K. Smith, aged 27 years. The interment will take place at the old Goshenhoppen Church, Montgomery county, Pa, this (Friday) morning, the 15th instant, at 10 o'clock. Releatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.
[Source: Philadelphia Press, November 15, 1861, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Mrs. Robert
A horrible murder was committed at Port Kennedy, Upper Merion township, Montgomery county, on Tuesday night. Robert Smith, a depraved Irishman, has been guilty of cruelly and brutally killing his wife. No one saw him commit the deed, but screams were heard during the night, and when the neighbors repaired to the house, they found Mrs. Smith in a dying condition. She died in a few moments after being first discovered. A post-mortem examination was made by Drs. L.W. Reed, Norristown, and John Schrack of Norristown, the opinion of whom was, after a careful and critical examination of the dead body, that the deceased came to her death from bruising and beating. The murdered woman leaves an infant about nine months old, and another child of about five years of age. Smith had a hearing and was committed to prison.
[Source: Philadelphia Press, December 28, 1857, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Robert Franklin
Robert Franklin Smith, (colored) an employe of John Comly, of near North Wales, died very suddenly Thursday afternoon. He had complained in the morning of not feeling well, but went to work as usual. He kept at it until noon, and ate a hearty dinner. After dinner he walked to North Wales, less than a mile distance, and secured some medicine from a physician. On his way home his strength failed him, and he summoned help to aid him in his return. A wagon was brought and he was thus conveyed home, where he died soon after reaching the house. The primary cause of his death was congestion of the lungs. Deceased had been in the employ of Mr. Comly for 23 years, and was regarded as a faithful and reliable man. He was born near Alexandria, Va., in 1852. He is survived by a widow and seven children. Funeral services were held on Sunday at Bethel Baptist church, Penllyn. Interment in Rose Valley cemetery, Ambler.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 29, 1903, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, Sophia Cecilia
Sophia Cecilia Smith, wife of ex-State Senator George Handy Smith, died recently at her home in Philadelphia, from an attack of the grip. She was the daughter of Peter McGowan, who was widely known years ago as an educator and writer. The family of Senator Smith is well known in this county, he occupying a handsome country seat in Gwynedd, near Franklinville, during the summer months.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 15, 1897, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smith, William
Dropped Dead in Pulpit. William Smith, of Ambler, Expires While Preaching. Leading a Spirited Class Meeting the Speaker Falls Headlong from the Platform--The Death Spreads Terror Among the Negroes.
Negroes in this vicinity are much alarmed over the four sudden deaths of members of their color during the past month, and they refer to the calamities with awe and bated breath as the probable wrathful visitations of an angered providence are hinted at. The last of these sudden deaths occurred in Ambler on Friday evening between 8 and 9 o'clock at the African Methodist Episcopal church, when William Smith of Maple Street, South Ambler, without a word of warning clasped his hands together and plunged headlong from the platform over the railing, striking his head on the floor, where he lay unconscious and apparently dead. Instant terror spread over the large congregation present and the wife and daughter of the prostrate man fled precipitously from the building. Dr. C.B. Hough was summoned and when he came the excitement had considerably abated. The doctor found the man alive, but unconscious and all efforts to promote a return of sensibility failed and he died in less than half an hour.
The occasion was the regular weekly prayer meeting and Smith, a lay preacher and politician, was in charge. Robert Newman, a young man had just given his Christian experience and Smith was excitedly inviting his hearers to a higher spiritual life, when he remarked that he would have to stop as his voiced appeared leaving him. However he continued and later turning to the boy he said, "You'd better stick to the Christian army." These were his last words. Clenching his fists and throwing his hands together on his breast his body was seen to sway and then plunge forward heavily, falling over the railing and down to the floor. His head struck the floor, bruising his face, and his prostrate body lay stretched out only a few feet from his wife and daughter, who were in the audience and occupied seats well to the front.
Smith was 42 years of age, and leaves a widow and three children and one grandchild. He has been employed in the Keasbey & Mattison works for eight years, and although almost constantly doctoring, was seldom prevented from working his full time and also taking a active part in church and politics in both of which he was considered a leader. Dr. Hough pronounced the death due to neuralgia of the heart. The body was buried at Rose Valley this Wednesday morning.
As above stated this is the fourth sudden death among the negroes of Ambler in as many weeks. Mrs. Agnes Burl was the first. She had been ill for several years with consumption, but was feeling so much better that the day of her death she got up from her bed and walked about for some time and admitted feeling much improved. That night between 8 and 9 o'clock she was taken with coughing and died from a severe hemorrhage. Mrs. Cole was the second. She had had a stroke of paralysis, but apparently had recovered her usual health and was up and about and as well as usual. One day she suddenly became unconscious and expired almost immediately. Mrs. Menefee was the third, being stricken with a sinking spell while on the road at Rose Valley. She was just able to call for assistance and colored friends nearby rushed to aid her and succeeded in getting her into the house, when she expired.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 16, 1903, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Smoll, Still Born Child of Maxwell
Snelling, Jane
Jane, wife of Rev. Samuel Snelling, rector of St. Thomas' P.E. church, Whitemarsh, died suddenly Tuesday morning about 3 o'clock. She was taken ill in Craig's drug store, Fort Washington, Monday evening about 7 o'clock. She was apparently in good health and spirits, and as she was about to go was stricken. She became unconscious and was taken care of by Mr. Craig. Dr. Seymour, the physician of the family, was summoned. At 10 o'clock she was removed to her home but continued to grow worse and died early next morning.
Mr. Snelling has been spending his vacation abroad and a cablegram was at once sent him at Devonshire, England, and he will be home in about a week.
The deceased was a resident of Massachusetts, having resided there about 10 years ago, when she was married to Mr. Snelling, who is her only survivor.
Some of her relatives were summoned from New England and they arrived this Wednesday morning, when at 9 o'clock a short funeral service was held at the rectory, conducted by Rev. J.L.S. Nisbett, who is substituting for Mr. Snelling. The remains were then forwarded to her former home, where interment will be made.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, August 25, 1898, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Snyder, Charles
Lansdale. Charles Snyder, whose death took place last Wednesday, was buried on Monday in Towamencin Schwenkfelter cemetery.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 18, 1902, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Snyder, Mrs. George
Blue Bell. The funeral of the widow of the late George Snyder took place at the home of her son-in-law, J. Conard Walton, on Wednesday. Interment was made on Thursday.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 2, 1899, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]
Snyder, Kate M.
Miss Katie M. Snyder died suddenly Sunday morning at her home, Highland avenue, Trinity green, Ambler, after an illness of typhoid fever, from which se appeared to be recovering. The funeral services were held this Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from Trinity Memorial church. Interment in Rose Hill cemetery.
Deceased was a young woman of kindly interests and leaves a large number of sorrowing friends. She was very active in church and benevolent work.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, August 27, 1903, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]
Synder, Mrs. William
Coroner Charles Ashton has completed his investigations in the death of Mrs. William Synder late of Line Lexington, whose demise was though was brought on by an over indulgence in headache powders. The investigation shows that the powders were in now way responsible for the woman's death.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 7, 1901, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sohony, Ludwig
The members of Court Ambler, No. 122, F. of A., in a body attended the funeral of Ludwig Sohony on Monday.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 2, 1903, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]
Soladay, Charles
Charles Soladay, who died last Thursday night, was buried at Hill Side cemetery last Monday, the 22d. A large funeral, including the Friendship lodge, of Jenkintown, was in attendance.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 25, 1897, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Solliday, Mrs. Benjamin
Mrs. Benjamin Solliday, a life long resident of Doylestown, died at her home, on Main street, Thursday after a brief illness, aged 64 years.
Mrs. Solliday was born at Gwynedd and is the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. James Wilson. In 1864, when about 24 years of age, she was married to Benjamin Solliday, of Doylestown, moved to the county seat of Bucks, and lived in the same house until the time of her death. Mr. Solliday died about 20 years ago. She was a member of the Doylestown Presbyterian church and in an unpretentious way performed many acts of kindness and philanthropy.
The deceased is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Bradenburg, whose husband is a minister residing at Bridesburg, and Mrs. Rachel Meredith, of Delaware county, and one brother, Charles Wilson, of Castle Valley.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 11, 1904, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Solliday, Catharine
Catharine, widow of Lafayette Solliday, late of Montgomeryville, was found dead in bed Thursday morning. She had suffered from a complication of diseases for some weeks past, principally from heart trouble and dropsy. She was 77 years of age last May, was born in Hottel, and is survived by two sons--George, with whom she resided, and Frank, of North Wales. Her husband died about 11 years ago. Lafayette Solliday, of North Wales, is a grandson of the deceased. The funeral took place from her late residence Monday afternoon at 1.30, interment at Montgomeryville Baptist church, of which she was a member.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, October 20, 1904, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Solly, Phebe
On the 16th instant, Phebe, wife of Wm. Solly, in the 40th year of her age. The relatives and friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend the funeral, from the residence of his husband, Montgomery county, near Montgomery Square, this (Thursday) morning, at 10 o'clock. To proceed to the Montgomery Meeting House.
[Source: Philadelphia Press, May 19, 1859, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]
Souder, Henry O.
Henry O. Souder died at Souderton Saturday, Aug. 28. The cause of death was paralysis, induced by old age. He was born Sept. 1, 1807, and was within four days of 90 years. For about 20 years prior to the advent of the railroad deceased conducted a lumber yard at Souderton, which is now the property of his son William. Much of the real estate of that borough was originally owned by him. His close connection with the locality accounts for its name, and he was often called the "father of Souderton." He was well known far and wide in his earlier days as an energetic business man. A widow and the following children survive: William, proprietor of Souderton lumber yard; Elizabeth, widow of Henry Landis, of Souderton; Edmund H., senior member of the firm of Souder & Crouthamel; Mary, wife of Henry Hemsing; Henry, proprietor of the Bush House, Quakertown; Catharine, wife of Wm. Slifer, of Philadelphia, and Ellis H., of the firm of Landis & Company. Funeral on Saturday at 9 a.m.; interment at the Souderton Mennonite Cemetery.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 9, 1897, p. 2. Submitted by Nancy.]
Souder, Infant Child of Howard L.
Souder, Milton
At Telford, Montgomery county, Milton Souder was at work in a mill when his foot slipped and he fell upon the belt. With lightning rapidity he was drawn towards the large driving pulley near the floor. In close proximity to this wheel protruded two large hooks or spikes, which tore open his abdomen as he was drawn over them, and he died in two hours.
[Source: New Holland Clarion, Saturday, December 18, 1880, p. 2. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sower, David
Death of a Venerable and well-known Citizen of Norristown.
Mr. David Sower, for many years editor of the Norristown Herald, and greatly respected as an exemplary and useful citizen, died at Norristown, on Thursday last, in the 69th year of his age. His funeral took place from his late residence yesterday afternoon.
[Source: Philadelphia Press, June 23, 1862, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]
Sparks, Ralph Conwell
Child Burned to Death. Young Son of Ralph Sparks, Penllyn, Overturns Lamp and Burns Himself and Dies Soon After--Mother Burned Rescuing Child.
A sad accident occurred at Penllyn on Wednesday evening of last week, as a result of which Ralph Conwell Sparks, the 17-month-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Sparks, was fatally burned and Mrs. Sparks received painful injuries.
The little fellow, an only child and of unusually bright and active disposition, had run to the diningroom window to watch for his father, who returns from his business in the city about 7 o'clock. In some way he pulled over a large lamp, which stood burning on a table by the window, and before Mrs. Sparks could reach him, the child's dress was in flames. She quickly caught him up and rolled him in a rug, extinguishing the fire and then ran with him to a neighbor's for help.
Medical attendance from Ambler and Philadelphia was called, but the child died at noon Thursday. The funeral took place on Saturday morning from 2505 North Seventeenth street, Philadelphia, interment being made at Mount Peace cemetery. He was a happy, friendly little fellow and the sad event is deeply felt in the neighborhood.
Mrs. Sparks' hands were painfully burned in her efforts to rescue the child and it will be some time before she can use them. The flames in the diningroom were extinguished by neighbors in time to save the house from being burned.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 8, 1900, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]
Speacht, Reuben
Lansdale. Reuben Speacht, an old citizen of Lansdale, died Thursday. His age was about 85 years. He had been a laborer and leaves a son Henry, residing here. His funeral took place on Monday and his interment was in the Reformed cemetery.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 15, 1903, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Speelhoffer, Mary
On April 19th, 1899, Mary wife of Rudolph Speelhoffer and daughter of the late John and Eunice Robb, aged 22 years. The relatives and friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend the funeral on Sunday afternoon at 1.30 o'clock, from her brother-in-law's residence, Wm. Walmsley, 735 Mattison avenue, Ambler, Pa. Interment at St. Thomas' church, Whitemarsh.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 20, 1899, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]
Speelhoffer, Samuel
Family is Unfortunate.
Samuel Speelhoffer, who met death last week by being run over by a trolley car at Plymouth Meetings, was the second of the family of brothers to meet a violent death. Reuben, an older brother, was burned to death by falling into a lime kiln some years ago. He also served in the war of the Rebellion. They were sons of Reuben Speelhoffer, who at tone time kept the Hickorytown hotel and was a veterinary surgeon. Two other sons are William and Jesse, both living in Plymouth township. Samuel, a son of William Speelhoffer and a nephew of the unfortunate man whose cognomen he bears, was married the day after his uncle was killed.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, August 22, 1901, p. 7. Submitted by Nancy.]
Spence, William
William Spence, a long time resident of Prospectville, who had suffered for several years with cancer of the ear and lately contracted pneumonia, died on Friday. The funeral was held on Monday with interment at Pleasantville Reformed church. He was 82 years old.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 12, 1903, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]
Spickernagle, William
Found Dead in His Garden.
William Spickernagle, a retired resident of Cheltenham, was found dead at his home shortly before noon Monday. He had spent part of the forenoon cleaning up the garden and lawn, and when his wife went to look for him she found him dead in a building back of the garden. Death was due to a stroke of apoplexy. He leaves a wife, two daughters and a son. Miss Caroline Spickernagel, one of the daughters, is a teacher in the public school at Cheltenham. Mr. Spickernagel, who had lived retired for the past 10 years, was formerly employed in Myers & Evans' fork factory at Ashbourne. He was 70 years old.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, November 7, 1901, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]
Springer, Albanus
Struck on a Crossing.
Albanus Springer, of Gwynedd, was struck on the crossing a short distance below Penllyn, on Tuesday, by the north-bound train due at Ambler at 11.55 a.m. Mr. Springer, who had been doing mason work for Alan Mathias in Ambler, was probably on his way to Ambler to start work at noon on Tuesday. His horse and carriage, the latter a no-top vehicle, had gotten fairly on the northbound track when the train came along at its usual speed and struck the horse and threw it between the north and south-bound tracks. Mr. Springer was carried on the pilot of the locomotive for probably 100 years, as was also the carriage. When picked up by the crew of the train Springer was conscious, but it was evident his injuries were of a serious nature. He was taken to North Wales, where a physician was in waiting to minister to his wants. The horse died before the train left the scene of the accident.
The crossing where the accident occurred is not a dangerous one, as a full view of the tracks to the south can be had for more than half a mile and how it is that Springer did not see the approach of the train cannot be imagined. The grade there is also quite heavy, and the train does not run at a rapid rate.
Mr. Springer died about 4 o'clock Tuesday afternoon. He was a married man, and a well-known mason. He had lived for several years past on a lot near Gwynedd station.
Coroner Kurtz held an inquest on the body on Wednesday. After the jury had viewed the body at the home of the deceased they returned to North Wales station and heard the statements of the train crew. Engineer Reagan said he saw the man driving along the road, and as the horse stepped on the track the danger signal was given. The horse turned his head toward the locomotive and the driver stood up in his carriage and tried to urge him across the tracks. Train was running about 15 miles and hour when it struck the carriage. The rest of the crew corroborated the statements of the engineer, and the jury rendered a verdict of accidental death, exonerating the crew and railroad company.
Springer leaves a family of several children. He bore the reputation of being a sober and industrious man.
[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 2, 1896, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]