WILLIAMS, Worthington Buckingham - Putnam

[newspaper obit]

Death of a Pioneer

Worthington B. Williams, an old citizen of Putnamville, died on Thursday [Dec 10] of paralysis after an illness of about two weeks. Mr. Williams was one of the pioneers of Putnam county, and a well educated man on subjects of all kinds. He was a prosperous farmer and a consistent republican. He leaves a family and many friends to mourn his loss. His age was about seventy-five years. [newspaper unknown]

On Saturday last occurred the funeral services of an old and esteemed citizen of the county, Mr. Worthington B. Williams. The following sketch of his life will be of public interest.

Worthington B. Williams was born on Cedar street in New York City, Dec. 20, 1815. His father's family consisted of six daughters and he was one of two sons. He graduated from the Renssaler Polytechnic institute in 1835 and in 1836 he came to Indiana. He engaged in merchandising at Putnamville for a short time, and then settled upon his farm near that place. In 1837 he married Miss Lydia Ann Lapsley Reed a daughter of pioneer Presbyterian minister, Rev. Isaac Reed, who organized many churches in the state, notably, those at Greencastle, Bloomington and Crawfordsville.

Mr. Williams was the father of eleven children, all but one of whom survive him. They have grown to mature age and to honor and rever their parents, both of whom have taken their departure. Mr. Williams was deeply concerned in national affairs; loyal and patriotic always. He was a great reader and kept well informed. He was especially fond of his family, and spent his life amid the circle of his happy, but now desolated home. In many respects he was a model man. Although he had not publicly identified himself with the visible church, in sentiment and feelings he was a Presbyterian; and amongst his last thoughts were those of interest for the village church, in which his family were workers. In his closing weeks he spent much time in Bible study,, and by private letters to his children and conversation with his pastors he evinced deep thought and considerable emotion.

He was almost a continual sufferer for several years, and his fatal sickness was probably paralysis of the brain. Many there are who can testify to his hospitality and friendship. His loss will be deeply felt in this community.

The funeral took place from the family residence near Putnamville, conducted by the Rev. T. D. Fyffe. The internment was at Forest Hill cemetery in this city. Mr. Williams at death had almost reached his seventy-sixth milestone, being 75 years, 10 months and 22 days old. " T. D. F