Robinson Constitution - April 26, 1899; page 1, column 3
James Davis Ruddell, the well known druggist, died at his home on South Cross street at 5 am., Saturday, April 22, 1899, after six days illness of plenro-pneumonia, and what makes his death all the sadder for the bereaved family is that Mrs. Ruddell's death occurred on April 27th last year. Mr. Ruddell was the son of George and Martha Neal Ruddell and was born in Grant County, KY, on March 11, 1849. With his parents in 1853 he moved to Crawford County, Ill. He attended the common schools of the county until 1868, when he, with his brother, Zalmon, entered Union Christian College at Merom, Ind. After spending four years in that school he and his brother Zalmon, entered the drug business at Merom, and after five years of successful business at this place they moved to Robinson, where they continued in the same business until 1896, when they also engaged in the furniture, hardware and undertaking business.
On account of failing health this partnership was dissolved, and after an interim of about six years, during which Mr. Ruddell was at Danville for a while and later in the grocery business in Robinson, he again entered the drug business in 1896, in which he continued until his death. He was married to Miss Ettie Updike, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Updike, on Nov. 24, 1881. To this union three children were born, viz: Theo, Harry and Florence, all of whom survive, bereft of the tender ministrations of both father and mother.
While a student at Merom Mr. Ruddell united with the Christian or New Light church at that place. He afterwards united with the M. E. church of this city, remaining a member until his death.
He was a charter member of Robinson Camp, No. 463 Modern Woodmen of America, in which he carried a policy of $2,000. by his death Robinson loses a successful business man and one of its best citizens. He was a kind husband and loving father. Until death claimed Mrs. Ruddell no happier home could be found in Robinson. He idolized his devoted companion and never ceased to mourn her untimely death.
The funeral services were held at the Methodist church Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. C. A. Beckett, after which interment occurred in the city cemetery. The services were under the auspices of Robinson Camp. Neighbors were present from neighboring camps and over 150 Woodmen were in line.