Kerr - William Henry
Source: Crawfordsville Journal-Review Dec 3, 1932
Rev. William Henry KERR, age 80 for more than 50 years a minister in the Christian Church died at his home 224 S. Green Street, Saturday morning at 9 o’lcock after an extended illness. Death was due to a stroke of paralysis suffered in November. Rev. Kerr was one of the best known ministers in this part of the state. He entered the ministry in 1872 and served in numerous churches in Indiana and Illinois until his retirement at the end of 50 years service. His charges included the following: 13 years at Fortville; 13 at Antioc, Ill; 5 at Walnut Corner, Ill; and shorter times at church in this county. Since his retirement from active ministry in 1924, Rev. Kerr had often times served as fill-in pastor for church in the vicinity. Rev. Kerr contributed much to the literary world. He wrote two books, The Kings Keys to His Books and Radio Messages From Paradise. Both these books are used as texts in the Christian Church colleges. In addition Rev. Kerr wrote many articles for magazines and church papers. He also compiled the history and program used in the Centennial celebration of the 1st Christian Church of this city in 1926. He left one manuscript unfinished at the time of his death. The deceased was born in Cumberland Co, Ky Sept 6, 1852 son of Dr. Thomas and Patience Spears Kerr. He was left an orphan in 1862 and came to Indiana 10 years later. In the following year he entered the ministry. Rev. Kerr was married to Miss Elva Jane Lough Sept 1, 1874 in Parke Co. In 1924 Rev. Kerr and his wife celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. At the same time, Rev. Kerr retired after 50 years in the ministry and also celebrated 50 years’ membership in the Masonic Lodge. The latter organization presented him with a bible in honor of the occasion. T he survivors include the widow; one daughter, Mrs. Claude Cunningham of this city; and a half sister, who lives at Chandler, Ind. Two daughters, Bertie and Ora preceded their father in death. The funeral services will be held at the 1st Christian Church Monday afternoon at 2:30 in charge of Rev. JH Wilson. He will be assisted by Rev. Samuel Smith of Ladoga, and Rev. WH Newlin of this city. Burial in Oak Hill Cemetery. - kbz