F.P. FARTHING DIED IN ELK PRAIRIE SUNDAY

Franklin Pierce Farthing, one of the leading and best known citizens of Elk Prairie, died at his home there about 4:45 P.M. Sunday. Mr. Farthing's illness began a year or so ago and he continued to decline until the end came.

He was born in Elk Prairie February 8, 1856 and had reached the age of 78 years, 3 months and 25 days.

He began his early life as a farmer and teacher, and after teaching several years discontinued that profession and devoted his time to farming.

In 1876 he married Martha Kirk, the surviving widow, who is in very feeble health at the present time.

Mr. Farthing always took an active interest in the civic affairs of his community and always stood for the social and moral uplift of his locality. He served the people of his township as an official in the capacity of the Town Clerk, Collector, Commissioner and Supervisor and was always faithful for every trust imposed upon him.

His marriage resulted in the birth of two daughters, Mrs Edith Harmon and Mrs. Stella Joy, both of whom who are dead.

He is survived by two granddaughters, Mrs. Fay Dare and Mrs. Reva McGhee and six great grand grand children. He is also survived by one brother J. B. Farthing of Colorado and two sisters Mrs. George Bean of Elk Prairie and Mrs. Lorinda Wells of Johnston City, Ill.

Mr. Farthing was one of the leading and most faithful members of the Elk Prairie Christian church.

His funeral was held at the home at 1 P. M. Monday. Services were conducted by Rev. Parsons of Mt. Vernon assisted by Rev. C.L. Wood of Keenes.

The obituary was written by Mrs. Viola Shaw of Ina at his request.

Mrs Robert Bean of Mt. Vernon sang a solo.

Burial was at the Kirk cemetery north of Ina. Many friends and neighbors attended the services.

Source: Article from the Ina Observer
Date: June 7, 1934
Submitted by Phyllis Patterson