Stafford - 1892 - 50th - Montgomery InGenWeb Project

It was 50 years March 24 that Rev. GW Stafford and Miss Rachel R. Stitt, daughter of Hon. James Stitt were married. The wedding was celebrated at the residence of Judge Stitt just in the suburbs of the city of Crawfordsville.  Mr. and Mrs. Stafford have devoted their lives to the work of the ministry in the Methodist Episcopal Church. First in the Indiana Conference after the division of this conference in the North Indiana Conference until the organization of the Northwest Conference when they were transferred from First Church, Richmond and stationed in this city. Afterward they filled the following stations: Frankfort, Valparaiso, Greencastle and Rockville.  At the close of their pastorate at Rockville they settled their family on a farm adjacent to this city where this happily wedded couple have resided ever since, receiving such appointments as were in reach of their home. A few years ago they took a superannuation which relation they still hold to their Conference. Their Golden Wedding was celebrated at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Stafford by their children, neighbors and many friends. All their living children were present exsception George W, attorney and Eddie A, MD both of Washington. About 75 persons were present and enjoyed to the utmost the sumptuous and rich repast, After dinner many and valuable presents were given this aged couple, including a full, life-sized likeness of each beautifully framed, given by their children. Rev. Dr. JW Greene made the presentation in well chosen, beautiful and tender remarks.  Responses were made by the children, a brother of Mr. Stafford and the aged couple. 50 years Mr. and Mrs. Stafford have traveled life’s highway together, sowing the seeds of kindness that have long since ripened into a fruitful harvest; they literally planted their own vine and fig tree and now are resting under their protecting boughs, enjoying the sweets that come to those who have lived useful and well-spent lives. They have gathered thousands into the Church of God, many of whom became ministers of the gospel and active and useful members in the church.  Two of their sons are engaged in the work of the ministry. All their children are members of church and honorable and useful members of society.  It is the wish of the many friends of this honored couple that they may yet live to enjoy many returning anniversaries of their happy union of long ago. They are among the best and most substantial citizens of the community and will be sadley missed when they are called home. Our loss will be their infinite gain. They will soon rest from their loved employ. They that be wise shall shine as the brighteness of the firmament and that turn many to righteousness for ever and ever … G