Athens Free Press

Funeral of Mrs. Smick

Mrs. Eliza Smick, whose death was noted in last weeks Free Press, was a daughter of Darius Phillips, and was born in Darwin, Clark county, Illinois, March 30, 1835. The following year the family moved to Marshall, the county seat, when the father served seven teen consecutive years as county clerk. After this they removed to Michigan City, Indiana, where the father died. Soon after her fathers death she came to Menard county to attend the then famous North Sangamon Academy, residing with her aunt Mrs. Dr. Suddith. On the 20th of August, 1860, she was united in marriage to Mr. John Eberly Smick. Of their five children one, Willie, died in infancy; four, namely, Jessie, Harry A., James E., and Mary Ella, with their father survive. She is survived by two brothers, D. (?) Phillips, of San Diego, Cal. and L. T. Phillips of Los Angeles, Cal. and by a sister, Mrs. H.S. Jennings, also of Los Angeles, who with a daughter was present at the funeral.

Mrs. Smick's last illness came upon her while she was enjoying an extended visit with her brothers in California. After her return home early in May she seemed for a time to improve. But her condition soon changed for the worse. Finally after much suffering endured with true Christian fortitude and resignation she entered into rest at 3 a.m. June 10th, 1904, at the age of 69 years, 2 months and 17 days. She was a member of the Sangamon Presbyterian church, having united with it Feb. 18th, 1800. She was a most loving and devoted sister, wife and mother; and her death leaves an aching void in the heart of many a loved one.

Appropriate funeral services were conducted at 10 a.m. Sabbath morning in the home by the pastor, Rev. D. G. Carson, and her remains were laid to rest in Indiana Point cemetery in the presence of a large gathering of sympathizing friends.

Submitted by: Rajean Gallagher