Obituaries, Death Notices, and Funeral Notices - Wh-Wz

Click a letter of the alphabet to view the obituaries for a surname that starts with that letter.

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Wheatland, Wesley

Wesley Wheatland, who lived on York road, below Hatboro, died at his home Saturday morning of pneumonia after one week's illness.

The deceased was born in Moreland township, near the Five Points, and was the son of the late Elijah Wheatland, a prominent butcher in his day. After their father's death the three sons, Elwood, Wesley and George, conducted the business, for a number of years. Wesley finally moved to his present home and continued in the butchering business until about two years ago then embarked in the ice business. He contracted a heavy cold while filling his large ice house which finally resulted in pneumonia. He leaves a widow, whose maiden name was Walker, and three daughters. He was a member of the Hatboro, M.E. church. His funeral was held on Tuesday, interment at Hatboro cemetery.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, December 31, 1903, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Whidden, Mrs.

Mrs. Whidden died Friday last at the residence of Charles Hallman, West Ambler. The funeral took place on Monday, Rev. Thomas Ogle officiating. Interment was made at Fernwood, Delaware county.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, June 17, 1897, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]

White, Mrs.

Springhouse. Mr. and Mrs. C. Melvin Greger attended the funeral of the latter's mother, Mrs. White, in Warrington township, Bucks county, on Monday.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 2, 1899, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

White, George

White, George

White, Hannah

Mrs. Hannah White, wife of Isaac White, of Summit avenue, Fort Washington, died on Wednesday morning of last week about 5 o'clock. The deceased had been suffering for several weeks with dropsy. The funeral was held on Saturday afternoon; interment at St. Thomas' cemetery.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, July 28, 1898, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

White, Hannah

North Wales. Mrs. Hannah White, an aged resident of this place for many years, died on Friday at the county hospital. Her funeral took place on Monday. Mrs. White as born in Ireland, came to this vicinity with her husband and kept a shanty boardinghouse when the North Penn railroad was being constructed. After the completion of the road the White family moved into the old school house, at the corner of Main street and the present cemetery road, which stood inside the church yard, now St. Peter's cemetery. This became uninhabitable, so she removed to a smaller house in town, where she resided until old age and disease overtook her, and then she was taken to the hospital where she died. She was an eccentric yet witty character, known far and near, fond of animal pets and of a very kindly disposition. Her husband, long deceased, is interred in St. Peter's cemetery. She leaves one son, John, an only relative in this country, who is clerk in a dental supply house in Philadelphia.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 24, 1903, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

White, Janette

White, John H.

White, Mrs. John

White, Lydia

Mrs. Lydia White died at her residence on State street, Newtown, on Friday night after a lingering illness. The funeral was held on Tuesday morning at 11 o'clock. The deceased is the widow of the late Ephriam White. She is survived by the following children: Anna, wife of Theodore Search; Mrs. Abbie Morton, of Philadelphia; Oscar White, of Cheltenham, and Misses Hannah and Laura White, of Newtown.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, December 25, 1902, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

White, Thomas

An Old Man. A man named Thomas White lately died in Gwynedd township, Montgomery county, at the advanced age of 104 years.

[Source: Philadelphia Press, July 21, 1859, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Whitebread, Emily

Narcissa. The friends of H. Whitebread, who formerly lived in this neighborhood, will regret to hear of the death of his wife, Emily. Her funeral occurred on Tuesday of this week at Wentz's church. She leaves a husband and one child.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 18, 1900, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Whitney, William C.

Whittock, Joanna W.

Joanna W., wife of Harry G. Whittock, of Edge Hill, died at her home Tuesday morning at 7 o'clock, after a long illness from cancer of the stomach, in her 51st year. Deceased was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Sines, and in 1870 was married to Mr. Whittock, who with the following children survive: Charles George, Flora, wife o of Thomas Burgoon, of Edge Hill; William, Albert, Frank, Edgar and Lydia. Mrs. Whittock was for many years an active member of Glenside M.E. church, former Harmer Hill Methodist church. Service will be held this Friday afternoon at her late home at Edge Hill at 1.30, interment at Hillside cemetery.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, November 26, 1903, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Whitty, Nicholas

Jarrettown. Mr. Nicholas Whitty died last Friday of consumption, aged 35. The funeral took place Tuesday morning.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 8, 1900, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]

Widmayer, Frederick Sr.

Frederick Widmayer, Sr., of near Board Axe died last Thursday evening at 7:10, of Bright's disease of the kidneys, after a lingering illness of six months.

The deceased was in his 65th year, having been born in December, 1833, at Calw, Germany. At the age of 20 he emigrated to America, taking charge of the Columbia dye works in Philadelphia. About 1858 he married Mary M. Yeakle, of Hatfield, by whom the following children were born: Emma Luebbert, of Philadelphia; Frederick, of Ambler; Ella, Dr. William, of Philadelphia, and Lillie M., of Broad Axe.

In 1876 he retired from business, having accumulated considerable property, and moved to his place on the Ambler and Plymouth turnpike, near Broad Axe, where he had since resided. Four years later his wife died and in 1887 he married Anna Kissling, of Philadelphia, a widow with five children, who, together with his own children, survive.

The funeral services were held at 12 o'clock Tuesday at his late residence and were in charge of Rev. Wm. F.S. Nelson, of the Ambler Presbyterian church. Interment was made at Hatfield in the Evangelical cemetery.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 8, 1898, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Widner, Mrs. Albert

Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Widner attended the funeral of their sister-in-law, Mrs. Albert Widner, of Norristown on Monday. Mrs. McClellan and daughter, Mrs. Quinley, also attended.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 12, 1900, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wieand, Harry S.

Wiegner, Elizabeth

Wiegner, Mrs. Nathan

Wiegner, Nathan

Wiegner, Nathan

Wiegner, Nathan

Wiegner, Nathaniel

Wiest, William

Wile, John F.

John F. Wile, a well known citizen of near Harleysville, died last Wednesday aged 77 years. Deceased is survived by his widow and two daughters--Mrs. Tobias Nice, of Harleysville, and Mrs. Joseph Frederick, Souderton. Also the following sisters: Mrs. Tobias Clemmer of Harleysville; Mrs. Ephraim Smith, Mrs. Philip Markley, Zieglersville; Mrs. Lena Rosenberger, West Virginia, and Mrs. George Hartzell, of Philadelphia.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, August 25, 1904, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wilgus, Awanna

Awanna Wilgus, daughter of Willis W. and Clara H. Wilgus, of Hatboro, and granddaughter of the late Samuel H. Hough and Annie Hough, died on Sunday at 11 a.m. The little girl had just recovered from the measles, but was not strong. The shock of her grandfather's sudden death on the 25ult., proved too great and she sank under it. And notwithstanding every effort to save her she passed away two days after her grandfather, whose special pet she had been. The funeral services for Mr. Hough were held Monday at 11.30 a.m., those of Awanna Wilgus at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, and both were interred in Hatboro cemetery.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 3, 1904, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wilkins, Frances A.

Funeral of Popular Teacher.

The popularity of Miss Frances A. Wilkins, the Plymouth school teacher, was attested by the outpouring of sorrowing relatives and friends at her funeral on Saturday afternoon, Dec. 17. Services were conducted at the home of her father, David Wilkins, on Spring Mill avenue, by Rev. J.F. Sheppard, pastor of the Presbyterian church, who also read the burial service at the grave in Riverside cemetery, Norristown. Deceased looked lifelike reposing in a quartered oak casket. There were many floral offerings, including a design from her pupils, who were present in a body. The pallbearers included Winfield R. Hartzell, superintendent of Plymouth schools; Elroy Williams, Charles Magee, Howard M. Harry, Orine Matlack and Harold Matlack.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, December 29, 1904, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]

Will, David

Will, James A.

Willard, Child of William

Jarrettown. A six-month-old child of William Willard's was buried in the cemetery here on Tuesday of last week.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, July 26, 1900, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Willett, Maria R.

Mrs. Maria R. Willett, wife of Samuel A. Willett, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Mary Dager, last Thursday, after a sickness of several months. She was in her 67th year. Services were held at the house Sunday afternoon, and the interment, which was private, was made at Union cemetery, Whitemarsh.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, July 8, 1897, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Willett, Milton

Milton Willett, a highly respected citizen of the borough, died at his residence, on Walnut street, Saturday afternoon of a complication of diseases, at the age of 61. He had been a resident of the town for a great many years and was a member of the Masonic order, Knights of Pythias, Odd Fellows and Golden Eagles. Funeral Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock from his late residence. Interment at Hillside.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 14, 1897, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Willey, Charlotte E. Kelley

Mrs. Charlotte E. Kelley Willey, the last niece of Daniel Webster's first wife, Grace Fletcher, died at Newfield, Mass., last week. She was an aunt to Rev. Dr. Albert Kelley, of the Mercer home. Daniel Webster was married in the house in which the deceased was born.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, November 28, 1901, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]

Williams, Daniel

Daniel Williams, of Whitemarsh township, died at his home on Wednesday morning of last week, in his 70th year. He had been sick for three months and was better, but last week had ventured out of the house and became engaged in some farm work, overtasking his strength. An apoplectic stroke was the result.

The deceased was born in 1830 and was the son of Anthony Williams, of Abington township. About 1854 he married Priscilla J. Kirk, daughter of John and Tabitha Kirk, of Abington. Six children were born, one of whom, a daughter, resides at home. About 10 years ago the wife died. The children still survive.

Daniel Williams was one of the most widely known men of the lower end of the county. He was a good farmer and his large farm of 140 acres lying on the Blue Bell and Chestnut Hill and the Flourtown and Norristown roads, in Whitemarsh, is considered one of the finest in the county. About the time of the war he and some relatives from Wilmington, Del., entered into an agreement and shipped a cargo of iron to South America. The venture was most disastrous, for the ship was wrecked and cargo sunk, and the deceased was obliged to make the loss good. At the time of his death he was one of the directors of the Chestnut Hill and Springhouse Turnpike company, having been at one time its president; was president of the Philadelphia hay market and also president of the Upper Dublin Live Stock Insurance company. He was also a director of the Germantown National bank.

The funeral, which was largely attended, was held on Monday afternoon from his late residence. Services were conducted at the house and among the speakers was David Newport. The interment was made by the side of his wife in Abington Friends' burying ground.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, June 29, 1899, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Williams, Daughter of Eugene

Williams, Thomas

Thomas Williams, of Ogontz, died at his residence on Spring avenue, that village, at 4.30 p.m. Thursday sixth month 26th, after an illness of several weeks, at the age of 75 years. He was suffering, it was supposed, from cancer of the liver and on Monday submitted to a surgical operation, but he could not permanently rally and death came as a relief to his suffering.

Mr. Williams was one of the most beloved men in his community and section, having been a member of the school board of Cheltenham township for over 33 years and its president for a greater portion of that long period. He also was a director of the Jenkintown National bank, and also interested in nearly all the turnpike companies in that section. He took the deepest interest in the success of the schools under his charge and in the individual and personal welfare of teachers and pupils. He leaves a widow and seven children.

Mr. Williams was twice married. His first wife was Elizabeth A. Comly, daughter of A. Lukens and Margaret Comly, to whom he was married Fifth month 1, 1850. She died Twelfth month 10, 1865. The issue of this marriage was five children, two sons and three daughters: Comly, who died in youth; Mary K., who died young; Comly 2d; Mary K, who also died young; another daughter by the same name, now the wife of Dr. William C. Powell, of Bryn Mawr, and Maggie who died in infancy. Comly, the second son of that name, survives his father.

His second wife to whom he was married First month 26, 1871, was Susanna D. Nice, daughter of William and Mary Nice, who was born and raised on the homestead at Lawnton. Her ancestors owned 600 acres of land at York road and Fisher's lane, Nicetown. The issue of this second marriage was two sons and three daughters, all of whom are still living as follows: John Roberts, Edith, Elizabeth and Lydia.

The funeral was held at 2 p.m., Sixth month 30, from the late residence of the deceased.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, July 3, 1902, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Williams, W.S.

Murdered by an Elephant.

The telegraph on Saturday announced the killing of Mr. W.S. Williams the keeper of the famous elephant Romeo. The Philadelphia papers give the particulars of the horrible affair which occurred at Hatborough, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. It appears that the huge monster had been placed in winter quarters at the above place, and on Wednesday was visited by his keeper, who found it necessary to administer a punishment. Mr. Williams is said to be the only man living who could exercise any authority over him. He afterwards took 'Romeo' to a trough, for the purpose of washing his face and tusks. As he (Williams) was stooping with his back towards him 'Romeo' suddenly seized him with his trunk, and dashed him with great violence against the wall, after which he gored him fearfully with his tusks. He then kneeled on the prostrate man with his pondrous weight and crushed him fearfully. The screams of Mr. Williams brought persons to his assistance, and with considerable danger the mutilated body of the unfortunate man was dragged out, the elephant being kept at bay by means of pitchforks. Medical aid was at once summoned, but Mr. Williams expired in a little over an hour afterwards. The elephant has since been quiet.

Romeo is a native of Ceylon where he was captured some ten years of age, when he was considered full grown. He, for a number of years, was used in State processions and for warlike purposes. He at last was taken among other munitions of war, and sold to some London menagerie proprietors, who vainly tried to train him to perform tricks. So he was sent to America in 1859 and purchased for the establishment of Mable & Co.

[Source: Waynesboro Village Record, January 3, 1868, p. 2. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wills, Hannah Supplee

Hannah Supplee Wills, widow of Allen W. Wills, formerly of Plymouth township, died at the residence of her brother in Philadelphia, on Friday, 14th inst., after an illness of two weeks. Mrs. Wills had been attacked with grip, accompanied by irregular heart action. Typhoid fever subsequently developed, against which her enfeebled condition rendered her unable to content.

Mrs. Wills was until recently a resident of Norristown, having removed to Philadelphia after the marriage fo her daughter. She leaves two children, Frank A. Wills, and Katherine, wife of H.L. Long, of Philadelphia. Her mother, Mrs. Supplee, the mother also of ex-Director of the Poor Henderson Supplee and Servitus Supplee, lived with her, at the residence of the latter, 1708 N. Twenty-second street, Philadelphia, where funeral services occurred previous to services being held in St. John's church, Norristown, the place of interment.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 20, 1896, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wilson, Ann

Lansdale. The funeral of Mrs. Ann Wilson took place on Monday of last week with interment at Montgomery Baptist. She was in her 76th year, the widow of Thomas Wilson. The latter removed to Lansdale many years ago from Montgomery township, a miles west of Eureka. The deceased left five children.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, October 27, 1904, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wilt, Annie

Wimmer, Frank

Wimmer, William

Wimmer, William H.

William H. Wimmer, son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Wimmer, died at the home of his parents, in Quakertown, Friday. His death was caused by hemorrhages due to an attack of pneumonia.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, July 17, 1902, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wingert, Lovinia

Wingfield, Oscar

North Wales. Oscar Wingfield, the Reading railway porter at Lansdale, whose funeral took place on Saturday, was buried in the family cemetery in Virginia on Monday.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, October 6, 1904, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]

Winship, William S.

William S. Winship, who died at the residence of his son, at Ambler, Pa., on Friday, at the age of seventy-five years, was buried Monday from his late residence, Sixteenth and Wallace streets, Philadelphia, interment being made at Cedar Hill cemetery.

During the last years of his life he suffered greatly from rheumatism, which finally caused inflammation of the brain. His life had been a n active one. He took an enthusiastic interest in public affairs in Philadelphia, particularly in the welfare of the fire department. He was an active member of that department at the time of the volunteer organization. He represented his company in the board of delegates of the Fire association and afterwards became secretary of that association, a position he held for years and only relinquished when his infirmities no longer allowed him to discharge its duties. He was a member of the common council for several years, representing the Fifth ward, and during that time inaugurated and forwarded many measures favorable to the volunteer firemen and their interests. He was a member of the committee that brought about the introduction of the first steam fire engine in use in the city. He was instrumental in procuring for the volunteer department arrears of appropriations from the councils and received from the companies a series of engrossed resolutions acknowledging his services in that direction. He served on the standing committees of the councils having charge of the fire department and of the trusts then in the care of the city and personally superintended, as a member of the latter committee, the disbursements of funds in aid of the worthy poor entitled to relief. Later he held the position of deputy surveyor of the port of Philadelphia under the administration of President Buchanan. He discharged the duties of the office with great enthusiasm and with much profit to the customs service of this port. He was a prominent member of Fredonia Lodge, No. 145, I.O.O.F., and was its secretary for many years, and also a member of Montgomery Lodge, F. and A.M.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, August 22, 1895, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wisler, Henry H.

Henry H. Wisler, who, a short time ago, gave his country home at Chalfont to the Baptist church for a home for old men and women and endowed the institution which is known as the Wisler memorial, died on Sunday at his residence, 1847 North Seventeenth street, Philadelphia, after a short illness.

Mr. Wisler was formerly a member of common council in Philadelphia. He was born in Hatfield, in 1824, and began his career in the grocery business. in 1855 he bought a chair factory and later went into the coal, lime and building store trade. From 1837 until his retirement, four years later, he was engaged in the lumber business, his son Charles H. Wisler succeeding him.

In 1852 Mr. Wisler was nominated for common council by the independent Republicans of the Nineteenth ward and endorsed by the Democrats. In spite of great opposition he was elected and served for two years. Mr. Wisler is survived by one son, Charles H. Wisler.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, August 22, 1901, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wismer, William

William Wismer, aged about 76 years died at his home in Dublin on Sunday evening. He was a veteran of the 104th regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, and a member of Gen. Robert L. Bodine Post, No. 306, G.A.R., of Doylestown.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 21, 1898, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wisser, Flossie

Fitzwatertown. We regret to announce the sudden death of Flossie, infant daughter of Luther and Lydia Moore Wisser, of this place. The funeral took place Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the parents' residence, interment being made in the Jarrettown M.E. burying ground.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, July 28, 1898, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Witman, Margaret

Margaret, the second child of B. Witman and Hettie Dambly, of Skippack, died on Friday afternoon. The funeral was held on Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Services and interment at Trinity Reformed church, Skippack.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 19, 1901, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Woerner, Willie

We note the death of Willie Woerner, son of Selma and Wm. H. Woerner, aged 14 years. The funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon from the residence of his parents, 4315 North Sixteenth street. Mr. Woerner and family lived here for several years previous to their removal to Philadelphia.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 16, 1899, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wolf, Child of Edwin

Wolf, Elizabeth

Lansdale. The funeral services of Elizabeth (Bergstresser) wife of William H. Wolf, were held on Saturday in the Reformed church. She was in her 27th year, and leaves a daughter two years old, and an infant of one week. She gave her life for her child and was a most estimable lady.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 24, 1903, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wolf, Henry

Narcissa. Henry Wolf, of Conshohocken, died at his home on Friday morning. His funeral took place on Wednesday. Interment at Cold Point cemetery.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 13, 1900, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wolf, Jonathan Sr.

Wolf, Son of Joseph D.

Joseph D. Wolf buried his youngest son at Cold Point on Monday of this week. The funeral was private, owing to the disease, diphtheria.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, June 9, 1898, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wolff, Nathan

Nathan Wolff, a former resident of Fort Washington, died on Saturday at the home of his son in Oxford, Chester county, aged about 75 years. Over 20 years ago he occupied the Reiff estate, on Morris road, and after a residence there of several years he removed to Oxford. He had two sons, William who is on the police force in Philadelphia, and Jacob, who has a farm at Oxford. One daughter, Ella, has been dead for many years.

The funeral was held this Wednesday and interment was made at Mount Pleasant Baptist cemetery, Ambler.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 12, 1903, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wood, Charles S.

Centre Square. Charles S. Wood, aged 57 years, son of the late Charles and Malinda Wood, died on Thursday of pneumonia, at his home in Norristown. Mr. Wood was born at Centre Square, residing here nearly all his life. Two years ago he moved to Norristown. He is survived by a widow and two sons, Tyson and Horace C., and two grandchildren, three brothers, Jonathan and Comly, of Philadelphia, and Samuel, of Indiana, one sister, Jeanette, of Norristown. The remains were interred on Monday at Boehm's church, where he was a consistent member.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 10, 1904, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wood, Comly

Comly Wood, an aged and highly respected citizen of Moreland township died at the home of his son, Newton E. Wood just over the borough line of Hatboro, on Nov. 23, aged 85 years.

Mr. Wood belonged to the family of that name, which settled in that locality many years ago. He was a member of Horsham meeting and always took an active part in the interest of the meeting.

He was for many years trustee of Loller academy, of Hatboro, and a school director of Moreland. He leaves a family of four children, Newton, of Moreland; Edwin, of Horsham; Howard , of Fort Washington, and Dr. Alfred C., the eminent specialist of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. A widow also survives him, whose maiden name was shoemaker.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, December 3, 1903, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wood, John and Ida Dieterly

Two Found Dead in Their Beds.

John Wood, of Torresdale, father of Mrs. William Morgan, of Willow Grove was found dead in his bed on Monday morning, Dec. 19. He was in his 85th year, but had been a remarkably hearty old gentleman. He as was well as usual on retiring on Sunday night.

Miss Ida Dieterly, who has been an invalid and almost helpless for a number of hears, was found dead in bed, at Line Lexington the previous Friday morning. Deceased was in the 23d year of her age and is survived by her mother and one sister, Mrs. Eli Frankenfield.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, December 29, 1904, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wood, Jonathan

Jonathan Wood, for most of his life a resident of Whitpain township, near Centre Square, where he carried on farming on an extensive scale, died on Wednesday last at the residence of his daughter in Camden. Deceased leaves several children, of whom William Wood, of Plymouth, is the best known in this vicinity. He had been a widower for many years.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 10, 1898, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wood, Jonathan

Jonathan Wood, the father of our townsman, Wm. Wood, was buried at Plymouth Meeting on Monday afternoon of this week.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 10, 1898, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wood, Margaret

The funeral of Mrs. Margaret Wood was held in Mt. Pleasant Baptist church last Thursday afternoon and interment was made at the cemetery on Mount Pleasant. Rev. Tilton, of Cold Point, had charge of the service and he was assisted by Rev. Ward Willis, of Philadelphia. The choir of the church sang "Safe in the Arms of Jesus" and "Gathering Home." Miss Marguerite W. Johnson rendered the solo "I Shall See Him Face to Face."

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 31, 1898, p. 5. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wood, Margaret M.

Mrs. Margaret M. Wood, wife of Joseph B. Wood, died at the Baptist Home, Philadelphia, on Monday, aged 80 years.

For about 10 years Mr. and Mrs. Wood kept the Broad Axe tollgate at the junction of the Skippack and Plymouth turnpikes, having previously resided at Blue Bell and in Whitemarsh. Mr. Wood is a blacksmith by trade and worked at the forge at Blue Bell and Plymouth. About three years ago the aged couple moved to the Baptist Home.

The deceased leaves a husband in his 88th year and one son, who was of the firm of Price & Wood, but is now with John Wanamaker.

The remains will be interred in the Mount Pleasant cemetery and services will be held in the Mount Pleasant Baptist church, Ambler, at 3 o'clock. Rev. Mr. Tilton, pastor of the Cold Point Baptist church, will have charge.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 24, 1898, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wood, Theodore F.

Theodore F. Wood, M.D., of Philadelphia, died on Monday, April 1, in his fiftieth year.

Theodore Wood was the son of Joseph and Margaret Wood, who have kept the Broad Axe tollgate for several years. He was quite well known in that vicinity, as shown by the residents of that neighborhood who attended the funeral.

Death was caused from blood poisoning from a scratch received while operating on a patient. The doctor was at once removed to the Hahneman hospital where he died on Monday morning at five o'clock in awful agony.

The deceased leaves four children, two sons and two daughters. Margaret and Susie are both known in Ambler and both live with Lydia Conard on Butler avenue, and are employed in the office of the Keasbey & Mattison company. His wife has been dead some time.

Dr. Wood was a member of the North Baptist church, of Philadelphia, but was buried from the Mount Pleasant Baptist church, of Ambler, and interred in the cemetery at Mount Pleasant, where the family lot is situated. The relatives and friends assembled on Tuesday morning at eleven o'clock at the residence of the deceased's brother, John B. Wood, 1171 Sydenham Street. The body was then brought to Ambler. A special car was attached to the two o'clock express and returned with the 4.38 train.

Rev. T.G. Denchfield, of the Ambler Baptist church, had charge of the services.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, April 4, 1895, p. 2. Submitted by Nancy.]

Woodland, Enos D.

Freight conductor Killed.

Enos D. Woodland, 36 years old, residing in Norristown, was instantly killed about 10 o'clock Thursday morning on the North Penn railroad, near Perkasie. Mr. Woodland has for a number of years been conductor of the Bethlehem freight.

He was standing on top of a freight car when he was struck by an overhead bridge at Rockhill station, a short distance above Perkasie. Mr. Woodland was knocked from the car and fell upon the tracks. It is stated that the wheels of two freight cars passed over his body. When the crew of the train reached the unfortunate man it was found that he was dead. The body was removed to the station at Perkasie.

Deceased was a prominent member of Camp 144, P.O.S. of A., and was one of the most active workers in that organization. Mr. Woodland is survived by a wife and several children.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 13, 1900, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Woodroffe, Herbert J. Jr.

Crushed to Death at Moreland.

Crushed to death beneath the wheels of a heavy hay wagon was the sad fate of little three-year-old Herbert J. Woodroffe, Jr., of Moreland Wednesday. Coroner Kane investigated the accident, for such it proved to be, and no inquest was deemed necessary by that official.

Herbert J. Woodroffe, Jr., is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Herbert J. Woodroffe, living on a farm between Southampton and Bethayres. He was a bright little child and the barn was one of the chief objects of interest to him. Leading to the barn floor, as is customary with most of these properties, is a grace and Wednesday morning a heavy hay wagon was standing at the head of it.

The farmer was preparing to go to the fields and Herbert, with other boy companions, was playing about the place. The others went into the house to get hats to wear to the hay field, leaving Herbert near the wagon.

An instant later a child's agonized scream startled the members of the family and from the house they saw the hay wagon speeding down the grade. It had started in some manner and little Herbert had only time to utter one cry before he was knocked down and the heavy wheel passed over his head. He was tenderly picked up and carried into the house, but death from a fractured skull resulted in less than 15 minutes.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, July 17, 1902, p. 6. Submitted by Nancy.]

Woodruff, Eliza

North Wales. Our town is grieved to hear of the death of one of our oldest former residents, Mrs. Eliza Woodruff, widow of the late James Woodruff, at the home of her son-in-law, Adam Van --- at Holland Pa., at the advanced age of 95 years. Her funeral took place on Tuesday morning and she was interred at Churchville, Bucks county. After the husband's death, a number of years ago, she disposed of her real estate to Isaac Rorer, who now resides on the old homestead which, was at one time the parsonage of St. Peter's Lutheran church. She resided with Harry Hergeshimer until from the infirmities of old age and debility she was no longer able to care for herself. She was induced to go to live with her son-in-law, at whose house she died. While living here she was a very attentive member of the Baptist church, on Shearer street.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 13, 1902, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Woods, Ezekiel

Narcissa. The funeral of Ezekiel Woods had to be postponed until Saturday on account of the snow.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, February 23, 1899, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wooley, John and Harvey, and Jas. Godshall

Three Men Killed at Palm.

John and Harvey Wooley, and Jas. Godshall were instantly killed on the Perkiomen railroad at Palm station Friday morning.

The men were returning to their homes at Allentown after several days fishing on the Perkiomen creek. They were riding in an express wagon when the north bound passenger train, due at 11 o'clock, crushed into them killing them instantly. John Wooley was 35 years old, Harvey Wooley, 32 and Godshall 40. The express wagon was broken to pieces and the horse escaped without injury.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, August 23, 1900, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Woolley, Mary

Mrs. Mary Woolley, who made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Joseph MacLennon, 220 Bethlehem avenue, Ambler, died on Monday. The funeral services were held this Wednesday afternoon at 2.30 from the residence of the deceased's son-in-law, Louis Spring, 319 Jefferson avenue, Bristol. Interment private in Bristol cemetery.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, May 5, 1904, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Worley, Francis D.

Francis D. Worley, who died at his home in Gwynedd, Wednesday afternoon, was at one time prominently identified with the interests of the Philadelphia Commercial exchange, being elected treasurer fro a number of years. He was born in Philadelphia Feb. 13, 1831, receiving his education at the public school and finishing it at the high school of his native city. His first experience in business life was with Jacob Witmer & Son, grain, flour, and commission house, in whose employ he entered soon after his school days. The firm at that time was located on Market street. In 1859 they removed to Broad and Arch streets, and in 1863 Mr. Worley succeeded the firm, remaining at the old stand until burned out in 1869, when he removed to Broad and Vine streets. In 1870 he formed a partnership with William H. James under the firm name of Worley & James which continued until the death fo Mr. James in 1878. In April, 1879, Mr. Worley succeeded Mr. Siter, of the firm of Sharpless, Siter & Co. at Broad and Race streets, the new firm taking the title of Sharpless, Worley & Neall, and doing a general flour, grain and commission house business. It being one of the prominent houses of Philadelphia devoted to this particular branch of trade, it annually did a large business. After the death of Messrs. Sharpless and Neall, in 1890 Mr. Worley continued business alone at 216 North Broad street until 1896, when he was stricken with paralysis, which caused his death. Mr. Worley was an active citizen, not only in his commission business, but in the general affairs of the commercial exchange. His re-election several times to the responsible position of treasurer fully attested the very high esteem in which he was held by his fellow members and friends. He leaves two sons: Frank, a Philadelphia builder; and Matthias, a Philadelphia & Reading railway engineer.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, June 14, 1900, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

[Worman, Charles]

The express leaving the Reading terminal at 2 o'clock p.m. on Monday killed a man under the Trenton Cut-off bridge below this place. The man's hat rolled off the engine near the station, but the engineer did not notice that there was anything wrong, for he did not stop. The next train reported to Agent Detwiler that a man was lying along side the tracks. Mr. Detwiler went down and brought up the body. The superintendent was notified. The body was turned over to Undertaker Davis. The dead man was quite well dressed in a black suit and wore a steel gray felt hat. He had no valuables on his person. Several slips of paper were in his pockets, on bearing the name of James Bechtel, Lansdale, another signed by E.F. Cadwalader contained information regarding an appointment at Eighth and Vine streets, Philadelphia. The unfortunate man had a heavy sandy mustache and was about 35 years of age. He had been talking to the brakesman on the south-bound coal train and had followed the train down to the bridge, when it is surmised that a passing train on the Cut-off led him to believe a train was bearing down upon him. He then stepped over to the other track just as the express was rounding the curve. An inquest was held by the coroner this Wednesday at 1 o'clock in Ambler.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, October 24, 1901, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Worman, Charles

Coroner Ashman, of Norristown, on Wednesday afternoon, held an inquest at Davis' undertaking establishment, in Ambler, on the body of the man found Monday afternoon below Fort Washington under the Trenton Cut-off bridge. It was learned that the dead man was Charles Worman, of Sellersville, and that he was on his way walking to Philadelphia. Deceased's father formerly kept the Keelersville hotel. The engineer of the train testified that he did not see the man and did not know he was struck. The train crew were exonerated from all responsibility. The remains were buried at Tinicum on Friday.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, October 31, 1901, p. 6. Submitted by Nancy.]

Worman, Charles E.

Worrell, Mr.

Fort Washington. Mr. Worrell, of this place, after a long illness, died Tuesday morning of neuralgia of the heart, in his 70th year. He leaves a widow and one daughter. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 21, 1901, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Worrell, Samuel K.

After a protracted illness, Samuel K. Worrell died of consumption at his residence, Fort Washington, Wednesday evening, Sept. 15, at the age of 38 years. Mr. Worrell had been confined to his house for some time previous to his death, and his demise was not unexpected. The funeral took place on Monday at 2 p.m. The services were in charge of Rev. L.B. Hafer, pastor of Trinity Lutheran church, who was assisted by Rev. M. Sheeleigh, D.D. A large number of sympathizing friends assembled to pay their respects to the departed, and Wissahickon Council, Jr. O.U.A.M., attended in a body. Mr. Worrell was a highly respected and faithful member of the order. The church choir furnished music. Interment was made at Ivy Hill cemetery.

Mr. Worrell was the son of Joseph and Margaret Worrell. When about the age of 15 he entered the office of the Farm Journal and learned to set type. He remained in the employ of that paper as collector for 10 years, when he moved to Fort Washington and opened a job printing office. He started the publication of a small weekly paper known as The Sentinel, which he continued for about a year and a half. The job office is still operated, and of late has been in charge of Miss Nellie Worrell, a sister of the deceased.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, September 23, 1897, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Worth, Francis May

Springhouse. Mr. and Mrs. I.W. Fleck and family attended the funeral of Francis May, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Worth, near Davis Grove, on Wednesday of last week. Mrs. Worth is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fleck.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, May 11, 1899, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Worthington, Elizabeth H.

Mrs. Elizabeth H. Worthington died at the home of her son-in-law, Jesse Homer, on Cherry street, Willow Grove, last Thursday afternoon, from a complication of diseases. She was the widow of Comly Worthington, late of Byberry, and was in her 86th year. The funeral was held on Monday from her late residence, interment at William Penn cemetery, Somerton. She leaves two sons, John W. Worthington of Ogontz; Joshua Worthington, of Philadelphia, and five daughters, Mrs. Harrison Tomlinson, of Philadelphia; Mrs. A.K. Samms, of Byberry; Mrs. B.F. Walton, of Jenkintown; Mrs. Jesse H. Homer, of Willow Grove, and Mrs. A.T. Paxson, of Langhorne. She was born and raised in Byberry.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 21, 1904, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wrenn, Patrick

Claimed the Corpse.

The funeral of Patrick Wrenn, who died in Charity hospital, June 11, from injuries received by being buried beneath a wall on the premises of B.F. Murphy, at Washington Square, occurred Thursday.

By the merest chance this funeral came off. Instead of receiving a decent burial the corpse nearly went into the pickling vat of the state anatomical board. Just as the corpse was about being shipped, having already been loaded on the dead wagon to be taken to the train, the body was claimed by relatives from Philadelphia.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, June 21, 1900, p. 7. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wright, Edith

Prospectville. Edith, youngest daughter of Frank and Mae Wright, died last Sunday morning at 4 o'clock. The funeral took place Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Interment at Rose Hill cemetery.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 22, 1900, p. 1. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wright, Robert

Robert Wright, one of the most respected colored men ever in this locality, was found dead in his bed last Sunday morning at the Sheaff homestead, near this place. He had been coachman in the family for about 37 years, and a long and faithful service he rendered. His death was due to heart failure, closing a respected career which would do credit to many a white man. He never married, and came here originally from Chester county. The deceased was upwards of 70 years o ld. The remains were interred from the Sheaff residence Tuesday afternoon in St. Thomas' cemetery. His death is a sad blow to the household in which he served so long and faithfully, and his polite bearing and pleasant words will be missed by our residents, who had learned to respect him.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 16, 1899, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wright, Robert

Fort Washington. The funeral of Robert Wright was attended by many of the persons in this vicinity. He was interred in St. Thomas' church grounds, and had been a member of that congregation. He was a most exemplary and trustworthy employe in the Seaff family and in all the years that he served them so well in the capacity of coachman they never had an accident in driving. He was one of the old Virginia style and type that are now rarely to be met with. His good manners and gentlemanly deportment bespoke respect for him from all classes. His training and education was such as prevailed among the F.F. V.'s in "before the war" times.

Honor and fame from no condition rise.
Act well your part, there all the honor lies.
And Robert did act well his part,
for which he was generously honored.

[Source: Ambler Gazette, March 23, 1899, p. 8. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wurster, Harry E.

Murder at Bingen. Night Operator on the North Penn Murdered While on Duty--Man Arrested on Suspicion--Confession Follows.

Harry E. Wurster, night operator at Bingen, on the North Pennsylvania railroad, was horribly murdered while on duty Friday night. He went to work at the usual time in the evening, relieving the day operator, and was in the performance of his duties in the early part of the evening. About 10.30 the operator in the despatcher's office, Philadelphia, called Bingen for orders. The operator at the latter place failed to answer. Repeated calls were made with the same result. Other offices called and failed to receive a reply. The conductor of a southbound freight train from Bethlehem was ordered to stop at Bingen and see what was the matter. When he arrived there a horrible picture presented itself. The ticket office door was open and seated in the chair of the operator, with his feet on the table, was Mr. Wurster, with his head crushed to a jelly and his clothing and the wall thoroughly bespattered with blood. There was no evidence of a struggle. It was plainly evident that Wurster had met death suddenly at the hands of an assassin, who motive was robbery, for the money drawer near by was broken open and empty.

An investigation was at once ordered by the railroad company. A detective was dispatched on a special train from Philadelphia and the surrounding country scoured for a trace of the assassins. Tracks were noticed in the vicinity of the station leading to the village store, thence northward along the railroad tracks, where they were lost. The body of Mr. Wurster was not disturbed, and when the coroner arrived on Saturday morning it was in the same position in which the freight conductor found it Friday night.

Mr. Wurster, the victim of the terrible deed, is a married man of about 28, with a wife and one child. He lived at Bingen and had been in the employ of the railroad company about two years. He was liked by everybody and was a special favorite among the employes of the road. His parents reside at Shelly, Bucks county, not far from the scene of the murder. Wurster was formerly ticket agent at Chalfont.

Detective Doran, of South Bethlehem, arrived at Bingen early Saturday morning and noticed the footprints of a man in the snow, leading from Wurster's office. They led direct to the home of Llewellyn Stout, of Spring Valley, Lehigh county. The detective arrested Stout. Shortly after being lodged in the Easton jail Stout made a complete confession to Detective Johnson. Stout is nearly 18 years of age. In his confession he said he went to the Bingen station Friday night about 11 o'clock. "I went over to play a game of cards with the operator," he said. "We never had a quarrel before that night. Before I left Spring Valley I drank half a pint of whiskey, and had taken another half pint before supper. I was pretty drunk. When I got to the station Wurster asked me if I had brought him any whiskey. He said I had promised to bring some liquor. I told him he lied, and in the quarrel he struck at me and hit me on the left shoulder. Then I went out to look for a club. I picked up a coupling pin and carrying it at my side, where the operator could not see it, I went back into the station room. I took a seat on the opposite side of the room. After a while we got to quarreling again. I went across the room and as Wurster was rising from his chair I struck him on the forehead with the coupling pin. He fell back into the chair, but made an attempt to get up again, when I hit him the second time. Then he sank back with a groan and his hands fell into his lap. I struck him the third blow. After that I put Wurster's feet upon the table the way he used to sit in the office, and then went out and threw the coupling pin back under the station platform. After I had thrown the coupling pin away I went back into the station after money, which I wrapped up in my handkerchief. Then I went up the railroad track to my home. Before going to bed I went out and hid the money in an outhouse and the handkerchief under the floor boards. When they arrested me Saturday morning I denied the killing of Wurster. Then I was released and went home and got $2 of the hidden money. I wanted it to buy whiskey, and had the $2 when I was arrested the second time, but slipped it behind a couch in the hotel dining room before the officers searched me. After I had confessed to Detective Johnson I showed the officer where I had placed the $2 and then took him to the outhouse, where I got the reminder of the money and the handkerchief. There are blood spots on the handkerchief."

[Source: Ambler Gazette, January 12, 1899, p. 4. Submitted by Nancy.]

Wylie, Jas.

At Norristown, Pa., on the 12th inst., Jas. Wylie, in the 57th year of his age. Funeral from his residence, Lafayette street, below Mill, this (Wednesday) afternoon, at 1 o'clock.

[Source: Philadelphia Press, January 15, 1862, p. 3. Submitted by Nancy.]