Wm. Sherman Belville was born Feb. 8, 1865, died at his home two miles west of Bader, Wednesday, June 9, 1920, aged 55 years four months and one day. On June 1, 1887 he was united in marriage to Ida Gragg, and to this union were born five children, four sons and one daughter, three of whom are living. Edward having died in infancy, Elmer L. of Bader, Mrs. Elsie E. Skiles of Browning and James G. who died at Camp Grant, on Oct. 7, 1918, where he had been called in the service of his country, Gilez, Otoo at home. Besides his beloved companion and three children, he leaves to mourn his loss. Two brothers and two sisters, and one half sister, John and George and Mrs. Malinda Harris of Browning and Mrs. Sylva Twedell of Beardstown and Mrs. Virginia Schisler of Swan Creek. Also ten grandchildren all of whom are living, besides numerous other relatives and friends. He lived most of his life in the vicinity of Bader. For several months he had been complaining more or less, but the immediate cause of his untimely death dates back to August 12, 1919. From which time he has been a constant sufferer until death relieved him and he was called to cross over that river where no traveler returns. On April 5, 1920, he was taken to St. Francis hospital at Macomb, where it was thought his condition could be bettered. Two operations were performed. The first one seemed to give him some relief, but the second one seemed to have no effects. In May he was brought home from the hospital. Having spend five weeks and three days in that institution. Since returning his condition steadily grew worse, until the end came and now his voice is stilled and his suffering over. During his life he was a member of Mutual Protective League, in which order he started in as a charter member. He also was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. To which he remained faithful to his promises. In 1895 he was converted at Mt. Zion, but did not unite with any church at that time. But in 1915 he joined the United Brethren church at Ridgeville. He remained faithful to his Maker till death. He bore all his suffering with patience and he longed for the time to come when he could meet his Savior. His last testimony was that he was ready to go.
All was done that willing hands and loving hearts could do to relieve his suffering but the Savior claimed him for his own.