Parke County Indiana Obituaries 

Surnames beginning with the letter "P"

PARIS

Herman Cecil, son of Mr. & Mrs. Charles Paris of Terre Haute, died at Camp Taylor on Tuesday morning of last week of double pneumonia.  Hew as a private in the 159th Depot Brigade. He was born near Byron, on the Howard Clore farm, now owned by Bob Mitchell.   His mother was a sister of Mrs. Will Heslar and a daughter of the late Joseph Wilshire.  Cecil was born July 6, 1890.  He leaves a widow.  Will Heslar, Guy Heslar and Miss Josephine Heslar attended the funeral on Sunday.   -  Waveland Independent, April 26, 1918

PARRENT

Mrs. Elizabeth PARRENT of Tangier mother of John Parrent dropped dead Wednesday morning while working in the yard.  She was about 60 years old but had been in comparatively good health up to that time when she was stricken with paralysis and died instantly.  She had been especially busy the past two weeks in placing her house and surroundings in order to receive her sister from Kansas whom she was expecting soon to pay her an extended visit.  There is no doubt but what the over exertion and anxiety to see her sister was the immediate cause of this paralytic stroke. The time for funeral and burial services up to Thursday morning has not been decided. - Taken from Fountain County Obituaries 1896 -1922 found at Crawfordsville Public Library, Local History Room July 2007

PARRISH

John Everett PARRISH 69 died Thursday noon at his home near West Union in Parke County.  In failing health for two months, he had been a mechanic.  Born in Crawfordsville on Dec 17, 1885 he was the son of Henry and Nancy Miller Parrish.  On June 14, 1919, he married Muriel REITER.  He left Waveland 24 years ago. He was a member of the Montezuma Church of the Nazarene.  Survivors include his former wife, Mrs. Muriel Hillshamer of Brethren, Michigan; two sons, Henry L of Ft. Wayne and Harold of Clinton; two daughters, Mrs. Charles Weaver of Waveland, Mrs. James Ferguson of Clinton and 12 grandchildren.  Funeral services were held Saturday at 2 at the Machledt Funeral Home, Waveland with Rev. Earl Ramey officiating.  Burial in Maple Ridge Cemetery. - Waveland Independent, June 2, 1955

PENFIELD

Died on the 4th inst., at Leavenworth City, Kansas, at the residence of his Grandfather, Col. W. G. Coffin, Harry P., son of A. S. and J. C. PENFIELD, aged nearly sixteen months.” - Parke County Republican, June 15, 1864

PENN

Arthur J. Penn, 80, of Rockville died at 7:18 p.m. Thursday, January 27, 2000, in Indianapolis. He was born December 21, 1919, in St. Joseph, Ill., to William W. Penn and Anna Hartman Penn. Survivors include his wife, Betty Smith Penn; five sons, Richard Penn, Robert Penn, John Penn, Don Penn and David Penn; four daughters, Teresa Allen, Mary Price, Kathy Price and Clara Schutt; 21 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. Services are 11 a.m. Monday in Brown Funeral Home in Montezuma, with the Revs. David Purichia and Keith McIntyre officiating. Burial is in Coloma Cemetery. Visitation is 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday. - Terre Haute Tribune

Betty Penn, 77, of Rockville died at 8:10 a.m. Friday, March 3, 2000, in her residence. She was born March 15, 1922, in Coloma to Russell Smith and Josephine McKeown Smith. Survivors include five sons, Richard Penn, Robert Penn, John Penn, Don Penn and David Penn; four daughters, Kathy Price, Clara Schutt, Teresa Allen and Mary Price; 21 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. Services are 11 a.m. Monday in Brown Funeral Home in Montezuma, with the Revs. Keith McIntyre and David Purichia officiating. Burial is in Coloma Cemetery. Visitation is 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday. - Terre Haute Tribune

PENNINGTON 

The funeral of Mrs. W. E. Pennington, on Friday morning at the home, was in charge of Rev. S. K. Fuson, assisted by Rev. F. B. Solin.  There were many beautiful and appropriate floral tributes.  A large crowd of friends were present.  The body was laid to rest at Maple Ridge.  The following obituary was read: Clara E. Pennington was b. January 27, 1854 in Parke County, Indiana on the farm now owned by her brother J. D. Fisher.  She was the third daughter of Alfred Fisher and Elizabeth, both of whom departed this life several years ago.  Her younger sister, also, Mrs. Laura A. Mahorney passed to the other shore in her young womanhood.  The other members of the family are: Mrs. LF Sherman of Topeka, KS; Mrs. Ellen Smith of Emporia, Kansas; Mrs. Amanda Logan of Arcola, Illinois and J. D. Fisher of this place, who is the youngest of the family.  The deceased was married to W. F. Pennington March 25, 1902.  The brother and sisters with her husband and some friends were present at her bedside on Thus morning at 3:15 o'clock when Clara was taken home by the Heavenly Father to join the innumerable host of relatives and friends who worship continually around the Throne.  Clara united with the Baptist Church of Waveland January 2, 1889 under the pastorate of Elder William Cuppy.  Her church was very dear to her.  Her life was a living example of Christianity. Wed. evening as the family stood by the beside, she united with them in the Lord' prayer and the 23rd psalm, her voice leading in the verse-- "Though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me.  They rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.  Clara was a patient sufferer.  During her several months' illness, her courage and patience was sustained by her faith in the unlimited power of God, completely resigned to His will and believing that all would be well.  She greatly appreciated the gifts of flowers sent by friends and often spoke of these friends and constantly desired that the flowers might be placed near her that she might enjoy the beauty and fragrance of the blossoms and be reminded of the affection of her friends.  Her husband, brother and sisters will greatly miss her kindly counsel and smiling face, but her sweet memory will abide with them 'til they are called to join her on the other shore.  - Waveland Independent, May 22, 1914

PETERMAN

Terry R. Peterman, 71 of Rockville died at 8:07 a.m. Thursday, November 17, 2005, in his residence. He was the retired owner of the Phillips 66 Service Station in Montezuma. He was born July 24, 1934, in Indianapolis, to William James Peterman and Stella Howe Peterman. Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Patricia Louise Bradburn Peterman, whom he married July 23, 1955, in Rockville; one son, George Peterman and his wife, Bobbie of Montezuma; two daughters, Terri Allen and her husband, Dink of Montezuma, and Pam Graves and her husband, Donnie of Rosedale; three brothers; five sisters; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War and a member and served as post commander for American Legion Fellenzer Post 48 in Rockville for four years. He also was past district commander for District 6 of the American Legion and was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Paul Taylor Post 1752 in Rockville. He was a member of Rockville First Baptist Church. Services are 11 a.m. Monday in Gooch Funeral Home, with the Rev. Harold Norman officiating. Burial with military graveside honors is in Memory Garden Cemetery. Visitation is 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday and before services Monday in the funeral home. – Terre Haute Tribune, 18 November 2005

PETERS

Minnie J. PETERS was a daughter of George C. and Sallie Lewis Peters.  She was born near Kokomo, April 12, 1884; died at her home in Billie Creek at 7:15 o'clock Thursday morning aged 28 years, 10 months 1 day.  March 13, 1904 she was united in marriage with Homer Trudell and to them 5 children were given - 3 daughters and 2 sons.  The three baby daughters were called to join the angel band before the mother, little Ruby and Mildred having gone a few weeks of each other only last summer.  The husband, two sons Calvin and Sidney, with her parents, grandparents and one brother are left in bereavement. The deceased was a faithful member of our local church.  She was a home loving woman, a devoted wife and an ideal mother who gave her best talents to the service of her family.  Patience, kindness and affection ruled her daily life.  She was a woman who was always ready to listen and profit by advice and counsel.  During her short residence of 3 years here.  Mrs. Trudell became endeared to a large circle of neighbors and friends.  Her many fine womanly qualities were such as to inspire confidence and trust.  But her life work is ended, family ties are broken for a time, farewell said to neighbor and friend and the spirit of Minnie Trudell, who had perfect faith and trust in Him, who said: Because I live, ye shall live also, has been called before the great white throne, there to receive the judgment of a just, all wise, all merciful Father.  Funeral services were conducted by S. K. Fuson at the church on Saturday morning at 11 o'clock. - Covered Bridge Courier Volume 1 #1 – Shared by Karen Zach

PEVELER

Mrs. Lela E. Peveler  - Montezuma, IN - Mrs. Lela E. Peveler, 76, died Friday. in Union Hospital.  A member of the Nazarene Church, she is survived by 5 daughters, Mrs. Mary CLARK of Columbia City, Ind., Mrs. Louise DIXON of Indianapolis, Mrs. Wanetta VIBBERT of Ft. Wayne, Ind., Mrs Inez BRITTON, of Hillsdale, & Mrs Lou ATHERTON of Martinsville, IN. a son, William, of Montezuma;  and 19 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren. Services will be conducted by Rev Earl Ramey at 2 p.m. Tues. where friends may call after 1 p.m. Monday.  Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery.  - Terre Haute Tribune Page 8,  Sun. June 2, 1974

William Nathaniel. Peveler, 68, of Montezuma died at 3 p.m. Friday, September. 14, 2001, in his residence. He was born May 10, 1933, in Montezuma to Newton Peveler and Lela GILL Peveler. Survivors include one son, Shane Peveler; two sisters, Lou Atherton and Mary Clark; and one grandson. There are no services or visitation. Cremation is scheduled. Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery at a later date. Brown Funeral Home assisted with arrangements. – Terre Haute Tribune, Page A-2, 15 September 2001

PHILLIPS

Tangier, Ind., September 10 - Mrs. Elizabeth Phillips, 91 years old, died at her home yesterday morning. She came from North Carolina in 1876. She was the mother of nine children - five are living  - Mrs. Alex Jones of Clinton; Mrs. A. J. Christie and Nathan Phillips and Jane Grissem, of Tangier, and William Phillips, of Danville, Ill. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren. One sister Mrs. Lunger survives at the age of 88 years. funeral services will be held at the residence Saturday afternoon in charge of the Rev. Mr. Tomlinson. (note: Elizabeth Marshall married George W. Phillips 29 Sep 1853, Paoli, Orange, IN)   -  Tribune; 10 September 1921; Page. 2  - shared by Amy Berga

 PHIPPS  

“Mrs. Gladys L. PHIPPS of Rockville, age 78, died in the hospital at Clinton, Thursday morning April 17. She was born in Parke County, the daughter of Melvin and Lillie Smith Miles and was a retired practical nurse. She was a member of the Daily Chapel Church, Parke County senior Citizens and the Rockville Home Economics club.  Surviving are a son, Paul of Butlerville; two sisters, Mrs. Bernice Miller of Montezuma r.r. and Mrs. Merle Helt of Clinton r.r.; two nieces, Mrs. Hazel Sanders of Dana and Mrs. Zoe Ann Parks of Terre Haute. Funeral services were held, Saturday afternoon, at the Barnes mortuary with Rev. Scott Pricer and Rev. Roger T Rankin officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemetery at Montezuma.” - Rockville Republican, April 24, 1969

“Margaret Maria PHIPPS, daughter of Hiram and Sally Phipps, born May 25, 1849, after an illness of four weeks, passed gently from this life Sept. 1, 1899, at Clinton, aged 50 years, 3 months, 6 days. She was married to Samuel Staggs May 16, 1867, and 12 children blessed the union of which 7 survive her, 4 sons and three daughters.      She united with the Methodist Church at Salem in 1886, and died in that belief. She was of a cheerful disposition ever ready to administer comfort to all.   The funeral services, held at the Methodist Church in Clinton Saturday at 1 o’clock p. m., were very impressive, Rev. Mr. Royse officiating. The text from the sermon was Eccl. xii and John xi. Internment at Salem Cemetery.” - Rockville Republican, September 6, 1899

Joseph V. PHIPPS, 74 years old, passed away at noon Monday at the residence near Mecca.    He is survived by the widow, Corda Alberta Phipps; two sons, Dwight of Portland Mills and Willard of South Bend; three daughters, Mrs. Verlin Norman of Portland Mills, Mrs. Mildred Elkins of South Bend and Mrs. Margaret Jones of Rochester, Mich., two brothers, George and Alfred; two sisters, Sarah Tucker of Rockville and Viola Ferguson of Terre Haute, and 12 grandchildren.  The body was brought to the Branson funeral home here where funeral services were conducted at 2 o’clock Wednesday afternoon. Burial was in Mt Moriah.” - Rockville Tribune, January 20, 1947

“Marjory Luella, eldest daughter of George and Mary PHIPPS, was born in Wabash township January 3, 1908, and died at her home in Mecca March 10, 1920, aged 12 years, 2 months, and 7 days.    She spent all of her life in Wabash Township and attended the public schools at Mecca. … She leaves to mourn her departure a loving father, mother, and sister and brother, also a host of other relatives and friends.  Funeral services were held Friday evening at the church in Mecca, conducted by Rev. C. R. Collings, after which the remains were brought to Rockville for burial in the Rockville Cemetery.   - Rockville Tribune, March 23, 1920

“Jesse PHIPPS, 69 years old, died early Monday morning at the residence of Glenn Williams, R. R. 1, Rosedale, where he resided. He was a member of the Church of Christ of Rosedale.  Surviving are a stepson, Herschel Livingston of Indianapolis; a sister, Mrs. Marrian Brill of Terre Haute, and a brother, John Phipps of Decatur, Ill.  The body was taken to the Cottrell-Williams funeral home where services were held at 1:30 o’clock Wednesday afternoon. The Rev. Richard Hogatt was in charge and burial was in Rosedale Cemetery.”  - Rockville Tribune, April 9, 1959

PHILLIPS

Mary E. Phillips, 89, of Rockville and formerly of Montezuma died at 1:06 p.m. Monday, March 17, 1997, in West Central Community Hospital in Clinton. She was a nurses' aide at the former Vermillion County Hospital in Clinton. She was born December 6, 1907, in Coal Bluff to Henry Fox and Cora Brown Fox. Survivors include one son, Donald Phillips of Bloomingdale; two daughters, Marilyn McCarty of Linton and Doris Weisheit of Fort Wayne; one sister, Helen Webster of Brazil; two brothers, Kermit Fox of Centerline, Mich. and Willard Fox of Farmington, Mich.; 13 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Joan Blackburn March 24, 1992. Services are 1 p.m. today in Brown Funeral Home, with the Rev. Wendell Adams officiating. Burial is in Oakland Cemetery.

PICKARD 

Tangier, January 22 -- Mrs. Elma Pickard, 56, died at 6 o'clock Sunday morning at her farm home near Howard -- just a year to the day after her mother, Mrs. Henry Holton, died in the same house.  She had been seriously ill since Friday and death was due to a complication of diseases. She had suffered with diabetes the past 10 years and had been in poor health for several months. born November 18, 1881, Mrs. Pickard was the daughter of Henry and Mattie (Ellis) Holton. She married Charles M. Pickard August 27, 1902.   Mrs. Pickard was a member of the Howard Presbyterian Church and the Ladies Aid.  She also belonged to the Tangier Friend's Aid, the Women's Relief League and the Women's Relief Corps. Surviving are the husband, one son, Harold Pickard; a granddaughter; four brothers, Austin & Arthur Holton, Newport; Ross Holton, Hillsdale and Edgar Holton, Des Moines, Iowa and 3 sisters, Mrs. Merle Henline, Akron, Oh; Mrs. Vera Kite, Muncie and Mrs. Myrtle Richmond, Clinton.   Funeral services will be held at the Tangier Friends church at 10:30 o'clock Tues. morning with Rev. Stanton Lawyer, pastor of the Howard Presbyterian church officiating. Burial will be made at Terre Haute.  - Crawfordsville Daily Journal, January 23, 1939

Jefferson Pickard was born September 28, 1861 near Marshall, Indiana and died May 7, 1898 at his home two miles So. of Rockville, aged 36 years 7 months and 9 days.  Deceased was a son of Alexander and Sarah Pickard, being the youngest of 11 children.  He was married to Elizabeth Shepard, December 28, 1887.  To this union 3 sons were born, all of who survive him. He resided in Waveland until about a year ago, when he moved to his last place of residence south of Rockville. Mr. Pickard united with the Baptist church in Waveland in the fall of 1896.  He was an earnest Christian and was willing to die, regretting only to leave his family.  Besides his wife and children, he leaves 3 sisters and one brother. - Waveland Independent, June 3, 1898

- Louis A. Pickard Died At Ball Nursing Home - Louis B. Pickard, 84, retried farmer who had spent most of his life in the  Parke County area near Rockville, died at 3:30 Saturday morning at the Ball  Nursing Home where he had been a resident for the past five months. Born January 13, 1881, in Watseka, Illinois, he was the son of Isaac and  Josephine Brockway Pickard. The family moved to the Rockville area during  Mr. Pickard's early childhood. He married Lena Ott in Rockville in 1903 and she preceded him in death on  January 21, 1961. Mr. Pickard, a farmer for 70 years before retirement, was  a member of the Memorial Presbyterian Church and a 50-year member of Parke  Lodge No. 8, F and A.M.  Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Hubert (Ruth) Beeson of Marshall; a  grandson, Marc Beeson of north Terre Haute; a brother, Andy Pickard of  Jennison Beach, Florida; a sister, Mrs. Gloria Woolery of Tucson, Arizona,  and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the Tudor Funeral Home in  Rockville, with the Rev. Morgan Roberts officiating. Interment was in Memory Garden Cemetery.  - Rockville Times, Thursday, December 16, 1965

PICKETT

Mrs. C.C. PICKETT, mother of Mrs. H.E. Hadley of Seattle, and picturesque figure in the hardy pioneer days of the middle west, died at 4:30 o’clock yesterday afternoon at the home of Judge and Mrs. Hadley at Sixteenth avenue and east Union street.  She was 91 years old.   Ill but a comparatively short time, Mrs. Pickett was born in southern Indiana January 4, 1823, and was reared in that state before the entrance of the railroads. She was left a widow when 30 years old, with a family of five children whom she raised on a farm on the banks of the Wabash. She was a member of the Friends or Quaker church.  When the Civil war was declared three of Mrs. Pickett’s brothers and two of her sons entered the conflict at approximately the same time. One of the brothers joined the Confederate army while the other arrayed themselves on the opposing side.  Mrs. Pickett came to Seattle four years ago to reside with her daughter.  Besides Mrs. Hadley she is survived by two sons; Joel L. Musgrave, of Hutsonville, Ill., and Jesse C. Musgrave, who lives in Florida by her first husband. (Note: the rest is too light to read)”  - Rockville Republican, February 11, 1914 (Submitted by Anita Ellis)

PIKE 

Eveline Pike, daughter of Samuel and Mary Pike, was born in Jay county, Indiana, Oct. 1, 1838; died April 29, 1901; aged 62 years, 6 months and 28 days. In October 1857, she was married to John Bryant, who afterward enlisted in Co. I, 31st Ind. Vol., and died at Evansville, Ind., in 1861. In 1863 she was married to David Eubank. Eight children were born to them, seven of whom with her husband survive her. In early life she was converted and joined the Methodist Episcopal church, but in later life she moved her membership to the United Brethren church, of which church she remained a consistent and devoted member until her death. Her life was a beautiful example of Christian fidelity and motherly devotion, and to her children, husband and friends she leaves a sweet memory, which will ever be a guide and incentive to a better life. Funeral services were held at Fairview church, near Tangier, and the remains  were buried in the Causey cemetery. “Asleep in Jesus, blessed sleep.”  Rockville Republican, May 8, 1901 (Submitted by Anita Ellis )

Mrs. Emma PICKARD widow of Levi Picard, who lived at the place now owned by R. E. Eblin at the west end of Main Street died on Monday in Union Hospital in Terre Haute. She had been living with her sister in Rockville. - Waveland Independent, March 3, 1938

POLING

Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon for James Poling, 63 years of age, at the residence three miles south of here. Mr. Poling died at the Union Hospital in Terre Haute from heart trouble.  He had been in failing health for some time.  The Poling family had moved from Allerton, Ill., to this community in 1921.  Mr. Poling is survived by the widow; two sons, John and Donald, at home; three daughters, Mrs. L, E. Riddle of Indianapolis; Mrs. Grace Nelson and Mrs. Stanley, both of Rockville. Rev. E. M. Woodward, pastor of the Marshall Federated church, was in charge of the funeral services, and burial was made in the Bethany cemetery east of Marshall. - Crawfordsville Journal Review, March 28, 1938

POLLARD

Shan Alonzo POLLARD, son of Thomas L. and Elizabeth Ellen POLLARD, was born in Vermillion County, IN, March 10, 1861, and died March 29, 1920, at the age of 59 years and 19 days. He was united in marriage to May E. Southard on the 26th day of February 1896. To this union there came to bless and cheer, 5 children - 3 sons and 2 daughters, Pearl, Orville, Lester, Lucy, Marie, and Beatrice. The latter died at the age of 2 years. He was one of a family of 6 children, of whom one brother, John POLLARD, and one sister, Mrs. A. Warner, and 2 half-brothers, John and Samuel POLLARD, survive him.  Mr. Pollard came to Parke County with his father at the age of 10 and has been a resident of Parke County since, except a few years that he lived in Vermillion County. Mr. Pollard was a very affectionate and tender husband and father, always ready to speak a kindly word to any member of the family or lend a helping hand when physically able; never offered criticism unless he was satisfied it was for the best. His educational advantages were somewhat limited, but he received a fair common school education which was of great value to him in his business relations in after life. He was of a quiet disposition, never meddled with the affairs of others, but attended strictly to his own business. He was honest and square in his dealings with his fellow man and took care of his obligations promptly. He was not a showy or brilliant man but was possessed of those sturdy and enduring traits of character that go to the making of a good husband, father, and citizen. He filled his station in life and was apparently contented with his station.  He leaves not only his immediate family and relatives, but many friends to mourn their loss. Funeral services were held at the house by James M. Swander, pastor of the Coloma Friends Church near his home. After the funeral discourse, the Montezuma Lodge of Odd Fellows, assisted by members of the Rockville Lodge, had charge of the funeral. - Newport Hoosier State, 07 April 1920, Page 001

PONTIAC  -- although not an obituary, interesting' stuff - Waveland Independent, April 15, 1927 -- "Greene Township" news -- "Pontiac Bill" as he is known to everybody, passed through this country Thursday evening. He was returning to Michigan to work in the fruit again this season.  He camped in Bushong's lot.   His little four-wheeled wagon was equipped for his convenience for his traveling as that is mainly the way he has lived for several years.  He was left an orphan at the age of 8 years when his father died; his mother, half Indian, died when he was only two.  

POOLE

Albert Grant POOLE, 78 died at 6:30 Wednesday January 29 at the home of his daughter here, Mrs. Raymond Busenbark.  Mr. Poole died of a heart attack and shock which was supposed to have been aggravated by a fall at the home of his daughter in Rockville a few days previously. He is survived by two other daughters, Mrs. Guy Heslar of Waveland and Mrs. Willis Hammock of Rockville; five sons, Clyde of Waveland; Everett of Alexander, LA; Paul of Thorntown; Clarence of Paris, IL and Harold of Butlerville; a sister, Mrs. Nellie Straughn of Rockville; a brother, Charles Poole of Greensburg and a number of grandchildren. The funeral was conducted from the Rockville Baptist Church Saturday morning at 10 in charge of  Rev. David Canine.  The music was furnished by the church.  The grandsons were pallbearers. He was laid to rest at Coloma Cemetery near Rockville. - Waveland Independent, February 6, 1947

PORTER 

Mrs. Walker Porter, a sister of the Misses Ella and Mary Williams, of the late Charles and Elmer Williams was buried at the Seceder cemetery. near Portland Mills on Wednesday of last week, after funeral services at the church.  She was the daughter of Daniel and Margaret Williams and was born in Waveland in 1863.  In 1891 she married Mr. Porter who survives her, with two sons, Fred and Floyd.  Death was caused by pneumonia following influenza. - Waveland Independent, January18, 1929  

Alex Porter, of Milligan, died on Wednesday after a week's illness with pneumonia.  Mr. Porter lacked a month of being 76 years old. He was born in the neighborhood of Portland Mills.  He leaves 3 sons and one daughter, Charles of Hollandsburg; Ora of Milligan; Roy and D. Thompson of Roachdale.  Funeral services at 11 today will be conducted by Rev. T. J. Boyer in the Seceder Church at Portland Mills. Burial in the cemetery adjoining.   - Waveland Independent, March 3, 1922

Mamie Pearl, oldest daughter of Usher and Mary Miller, was b. May 25, 1883, in Raccoon Township, Parke Co and left this earth to answer the call of the Master just as the evening shadows fell on March 16, 1927, aged 43 years 9 months and 19 days. She was one of a family of 4 children, her oldest brother, Brint, having passed to the great beyond several years ago.  Her mother was called by death while Pearl was yet in her girlhood days and she lovingly and tenderly cared for her younger brother, Carl and baby sister, Carrie (now Mrs. Fay Spencer) and in whose memory today they cherish more than a sister's love. She was united in married to Harry Porter on November 27, 1912 and two sweet little daughters, Irene and Louise  came to bless this happy union.  Pearl was of a quiet, unassuming disposition; was a faithful, loving wife and mother.  She never publicly confessed faith in Christ, but those of her family and friends who knew her best, felt she had that hope in her heart that when this life's work was ended there was a home prepared for her, eternal in the heavens.  Many in numbers are the friends and relatives who so deeply mourn her departure, but greatest of all her present will be missed by her loving husband and two daughters, her fond father, sister and brother.  They are broken hearted today but have that joy of looking into the future and hoping to meet her in heaven.  Besides her immediate family she leaves a stepmother, Mrs. Mayme Miller and her loving niece, Mrs. Harold Gibbs, together with aunts, uncles and cousins who greatly mourn their loss.    - ? newspaper --

Rufus Porter, one of the best known citizens of Green Township, passed away while attending the Porter-Haribson-Spencer reunion at the old Nathaniel Spencer place, north of Portland Mills about half past 3 on Tuesday afternoon. Death resulted from cerebral hemorrhage. He had one seizure in 1914, and had since been troubled with dizziness but for the past few days had been feeling unusual well.  He had just returned from a stay at Winona Lake where he had enjoyed himself very much. At the time of his death he was sitting by a tree playing checkers with Ray England, a game at which he was an expert. While waiting for Ray to move he fell back against the tree and expired.  He was the son of Robert and Elizabeth Harbison Porter and was born in Greene Township in 1860. He spent all his life there with the exception of 3 years in Kansas. He married Mary Ball August 15, 1883. She survives him with four children: Mrs. Ray Heslar; Carl Porter; Mrs. Virgil Vaught and Frank Porter. All were present at the reunion but Frank had left for his home in Portland before his father's death. Funeral services at the home yesterday afternoon were in charge of Rev. WC Ball, pastor of the united Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis, assisted by Rev. H Sigler; Mr. Ball is a nephew of Mrs. Porter. Burial at Seceder Cemetery, near Portland Mills. One of the visitors at the reunion was Miss Kate Spencer, a niece of Mr. Porter who has been a missionary in Indian for six years and is home for vacation.  Waveland Independent, August 26, 1932  - submitted by Karen Zach

POTTS

Miss Emma POTTS, who lived alone in the old McEwen residence in the southeast part of town died after a few hours illness Monday afternoon.  About noon Mrs. Maud Bishop who has been furnishing lunch for Miss Potts called to inquire what she would like, but got no response. She notified Max Holbert who has been helping about the house and he went down found the doors locked but broke in.  Miss Potts was lying on the floor of her bedroom.  He put her back in bed.  She refused to have a doctor called or anyone, in fact. After giving her a drink of water, he left and tried to find Mrs. Ryan, colored woman and have her go to the house but could not locate her. About 2 o'clock, Mr. Max went back to the house and discovered she had died in the meantime.  He went for Deputy Sheriff Moore and they returned to the house and called Coroner Switzer. He has not returned a verdict. It is likely Miss Potts suffered a stroke of some sort. Miss Emma Potts  was born and spent all her life in Rockville. She was a granddaughter of Robert McEwen in his day a prominent and wealthy man. Her father was the son of Joseph Potts also an old-time resident of the town. For many years Miss Potts and Miss Mate McEwen her aunt lived together. After the death of the latter, Miss Potts continued to live alone in the house. She was the last survivor of the family.  She was reticent about herself and her affairs and no one seems to know her age. Until late year she was a faithful attendant of services in memorial Presbyterian Church of which she was a member. Her social activities in her later days were confined to the Current Literature club. So far as known only second cousins survive among these Bert Cornwall of Montezuma who came to Rockville and took charge of the funeral arrangements and Will Nye of Lafayette. In her younger days she participated in the social affairs of the town.  She possessed many charming qualities. Funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock this afternoon in Memorial Presbyterian church , Rev. W. F. Smith officiating. Interment in Rockville Cemetery.  - Rockville Republican, April 16, 1936

POWELL 

Mrs. Mollie Powell died at Wallace on Sunday and was buried at State Line on Wednesday. She was the widow of Will Crooks, and leaves a daughter, Miss Mode Crooks.  "Eat when your hungry Drink when your dry Chine needs the money you ought to know why."  - Waveland Independent, March 26, 1922

PRATT

“Roy E. PRATT of Bellmore, age 89, died Friday morning, February 17, in the Parke County Nursing Home. He was the son of John W. and Nancy Blue Pratt and lived his entire life in the Bellmore community. Mr. Pratt was a retired farmer.      Surviving are a niece, Miss Mary Margaret Payton of Indianapolis; and a nephew, Orval Pratt of RR 1, Rockville.  Funeral services were held at Barnes Mortuary this morning (Monday) with Rev. James O. Trousdale officiating. Burial was in Mount Moriah Cemetery north of Hollandsburg.”  - Parke County Sentinel, February 20, 1978

PRICE

The body of Dr. G. C. Price, of Judson, which was to have arrived from France on Thursday, May 19, did not get here until Saturday.  Funeral services at Mt. Moriah Church on Sunday were conducted by Rev. Mr. Markin of Judson.  The attendance of people was very large, running into the thousands.  Dr. Ball was one of the pallbearers, the others being Dr. Collins, Connerly, White, Bloomer and Shafter, all of whom saw service in the World War.  The burial was in charge of the Litsey-Price Post American Legion.  The funeral was with military honors, a squad of ex-service men firing a salute.  Dr. Price was the only man in Washington Township who lost his life in the World War.  - Waveland Independent, June 3, 1921

PRIEST

Billy Joe Priest Sr., 58, of Montezuma died at 9:24 p.m. Thursday, September 24, 1998, in his residence. He was an iron worker for Iron Workers Local 439 of Terre Haute. He was born June 11, 1940, in Clinton to Tom Priest and Bertha Richard Priest. Survivors include one niece and her husband, Rose Watson and Duane Watson of Montezuma; one sister, Virginia Capps of Mecca; one brother, James Pete Priest of Clinton; several other nieces and nephews; two sons, Billy Joe Priest Jr. and Daniel Priest, both of Terre Haute; one daughter, Cristina Priest of Terre Haute; and three grandchildren. He was an avid musician and banjo player, having played with Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys. Services are 1:30 p.m. Monday in Frist Funeral Home in Clinton, with the Rev. Lindy Russell officiating. Burial is in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Visitation is 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday. - Terre Haute Tribune

PRUETT

Mrs. Rosanna Pruett died at her home North of Carbon in Jackson Twp, Wed. morning after a lingering illness.  She was 85 years old and is survived by two children -- Mathew Pruett at home and Mrs. John Duncan of this place.  Mrs. Pruett was a well beloved woman of many Christian graces.  She was honored by all who knew her.  Funeral services were held at Zion Chapel of which she has long been a faithful member at 10:30 o'clock, Friday morning. The Rev. John McHargue, a nephew, of Kingman officiating, assisted by the Rev. Abner McHargue a life long friend of the deceased and buried was made in the Moore cemetery. The sympathy of many friends is extended the bereaved.    -  Rockville Tribune, November 14, 1923

Mrs. Harvey Pruett, aged 79, died at her home in Bloomingdale, Thursday morning after a lingering illness.  Funeral services were held Saturday at 10 o'clock A.M., Rev. C. C Griggs officiating.  Burial was in the Bloomingdale Cemetery.  Left to mourn are: the husband, two daughters, a son, and grandchildren. (Thanks to the Wolfs for this) - Rockville Tribune, July 11, 1928, Page 7

Mary Ann Nancy BARTON was born in Parke County  Indiana September 1, 1831 and died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Kemper, March 8, 1903 having lived 71 years 5 months and 7 days. The deceased spent all of her life in and near the neighborhood of Mansfield, with the exception of two short periods in her early life which she spent in Illinois, but soon returned.  Last October she went to live with her daughter, Mrs. Kemper of Newton County Indiana.  She was married to Calvin Pruett November 6, 1851 which union was unbroken for a period of 51 years 4 months and two days. To them were born 12 children, six of whom have preceded her to the grave.  Among a people with whom she lived so long and who have known her life so well, it is almost useless for the pen to attempt to pay her the tribute her many friends and neighbors demand.  In her last moments of life, when the messenger of death was knocking to bear her spirit away to her Creator, she showed the characteristic of her life -- thoughtfulness for others. Among her last words were: "Tell the Mansfield folks good bye for they have been so good to me." She leaves a husband, six children, a number of grandchildren and a host of friends.  The funeral services were conducted by Rev. McHargue of Kingman in the ME Church at Mansfield after which the body was taken to the Moore graveyard for interment.  - Obituaries of Fountain Co, Indiana found in Local History Room of the Crawfordsville District Public Library, January 2003

PURCELL

Mrs. Margaret PURCELL died of consumption at her home in the northern part of town Tuesday, February 26, and was buried Thursday in Barnes’ cemetery. This makes the fourth death in that family in less than a year. Her husband, Wm. Purcell, died about four months ago.”   February 10, 1892

PYLE

H. S. McCAMPBELL received a telegram Saturday evening telling of the death of Mrs. Lennie PYLE which occurred at noon that day at Fillmore, California. She with her husband and sister-in-law, Miss Della Pyle, had gone west last October with the hope of benefiting her health which had been failing for about two years. For a time she seemed to improve but telegrams were received here Thursday telling of her critical illness. Mrs. Pyle was formerly Miss Ella CUMMINGS daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wilson Cummings and had spent her entire life in this vicinity. She was a member of the graduating class of Marshall High School in 1908 and later attended Indiana University and State Normal. She was a good pianist a very successful teacher in our grade schools and one of the best beloved and most respected of our young people.  Her marriage to Lennie Pyle occurred October 8, 1913. She is survived by her husband, father, two sisters, Mrs. HS McCampbell and Miss Mable Cummings and many friends and relatives. Her mother died six months ago. WW Cummings and daughter, Mabel left here Friday for Fillmore. Mrs. Pyle's body will be brought here for burial probably arriving Friday or Saturday. Much sympathy is felt here for the family. - Crawfordsville Daily Journal, Tuesday May 2, 1916