Rolla S. Nichols

 

Rolla Syrene Nichols, son of Robert T. and Sarah K. (Moots) Nichols was born near Bloomington, in McLean County, Illinois, February 2, 1857, and died at his home south east of Roberts Wednesday, September 28, 1921, aged 64 years, 7 months, and 2? days.
After some years he came with his parents to Iroquois County and there he married Miss Emma Sophia Orr who preceded him in death, May 5th, 1915. After their marriage they lived in the vicinity of Loda and Roberts. Unto them were born four children, two sons and two daughters. The sons died in infancy. The daughters are still living.
The deceased was a good neighbor, a man who was honest in his dealings, generous in his treatment of his fellow man, liberal in helping the needy, and one who could be depended upon whenever assistance was needed for a worthy cause. He was a member of the Modern Woodmen of America having joined the society soon after it was organized here. He was also a charter member of Roberts District Court of Honor, having been a member of both more than a quarter of a century. In them he was prompt in his payments and faithful to his obligations. It was never necessary to remind him that a payment was due.
He had been a man of a strong constitution and had good health until about five years ago when he had a sever siege of illness and has been afflicted with neurotic ailment since. He also had trouble with his stomach which tended to increase the other ailment. His death occurred as we stated last week in the Herald. His body being found hanging in the barn. The coroner arriving about three o'clock Wednesday afternoon and inpaneled a jury which returned a verdict that his death was caused from "strangulation by his own hand." The jury consisted of Alred T. Gullett, John Kief, Fred Rueck, Louis Drechsel, ?ust Hubner and H.R. Minch.
The deceased leaves to mourn his death, two daughters, Mrs. Blanche Keagle of Urbana, Illinois, and Mrs. Ethel Rath of Roberts; eight grandchildren; and one brother, Llewellyn Eugene of Roberts. His sister Mrs. Maggie Hester of Ames, Iowas, died a few months ago. He had another sister but it is not known whether she is living. She, Mrs. Alice Smith, was living in San Francisco and the family heard from her frequently until the great earthquake in that place. They have never heard from her since and it is supposed that she lost her life at that time.
Mr. Nichols' funeral was held at the M.E. Church in Roberts, Saturday, September 30th, Rev. Charles Wunch and Rev. A.E. Rowson officiating after which the remains were laid to rest in Lyman Cemetery. Roberts Camp Modern Woodmen had charge of the ceremony at the grave.

Card of Thanks

We desire to thank the many friends who so kindly assisted us during our bereavement. We wish to thank the choir, those who furnished autos, and for the flowers, and the many who assisted us in various ways. Your kindness will be remembered.
Mr. and Mrs. John Keagle
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Rath

--The Roberts Herald.  5 October 1921.