Wilson Rakestraw was born Nov. 8th, 1828, near West Carlisle, Coschocton, Ohio. October 23, 1852, he was united in marriage to Phoebe Elizabeth Smith, of Licking county, Ohio. Their union was blessed with twelve children of whom a wife and mother and seven children are left to mourn his departure, which occurred Dec. 10, 1902.
The deceased was confined to his room for nearly a year and it was scarcely realized by his friends and relatives that the white winged angel was so near at hand until he had claimed his own. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Ross, on Friday, after which all that was mortal of the dear departed was laid at rest in the Union cemetery. Thus are we suddenly bereft of a faithful father.
How sweetly he is sleeping
In the grave beneath the sod.
We could not wish to wake him
From his slumbers there with God.
He has gone to live with Jesus
In that land so pure and bright,
He is with the holy angels
Robed forever more in white.
He has gone from care and pain,
All the ills of earthly life.
Never more to know of sorrow,
Never more to know of strife.
How sadly we shall miss him
As the days go passing by.
But we hope to meet that dear one
In the home beyond the sky.
'Tis hard, so hard to speak the words,
"Must we forever part?"
Dearest loved one we have laid thee
In the peaceful grave's embrace,
But thy memory will be cherished
'Till we see thy heavenly face.
In that home in ancient glory,
Where the spirit knows no cure,
In that home of light and glory
May we meet our father there.
Current Obituaries in the Astoria South Fulton Argus