Mrs. Elijah (Susan) Lacey
1806-February 13, 1883
Niles Democrat, Sat. Feb. 17, 1883, page 3, column 3
Another of the old and prominent citizens of Niles has passed away and is at rest. Mrs. Elijah Lacey, who was among the early pioneers and settlers of Niles, died at her residence in this city on Tuesday last. She wad been gradually failing for some time past, and her departure was not unexpected, but when the sad news of her death was announced there was a general feeling of sorrow throughout the large circle of her acquaintance. She was a most estimable and highly respected lady, and leaves many to cherish her memory.
Niles Democrat, Sat. Feb. 17, 1883, page 3, column 4
DIED
LACEY—At her home in this city, Feb. 13, Mrs. Susan M. Lacey, in the 77th years of her age.
Mrs. Lacey was so well and so favorably known in this community that anything more than the simple announcement of her death seems almost superfluous. She was the widow of Hon. Elijah Lacey, one of the first settlers of Niles and who gave it its present name. She was a woman of marked talents, fine education and well calculated to raise the standard of morality and religion in a growing community to a higher plane. The influence of her firm Christian character; the kindly aid and sympathy she extended to all around her and broad charity which thought . .which lead her to do good to all as . .. opportunity, have endeared her to his people and have left an impression upon society which not soon be effaced. Love for children was one of her marked characteristics and she seemed always to be devising little schemes for their pleasure, and this not for their parents sake, but for them and because they were children. She lived to an advanced age, but her councils and example will be missed by a large circle who were wont to defer to her long experience and ripe judgment. She was an honored member of the Presbyterian church, contributing freely to its support and as long as health permitted was a constant and devout attendant. Thus one by one of those who helped to lay the broad foundations of our society pass away leaving behind only choice memories of their bright example which we will do well to head and emulate. Her funeral was largely attended at her late residence yesterday morning.
St. Joseph Valley Weekly Register, Wednesday, February 21, 1883, page 5, col. 1, microfilm Niles District Library
Mrs. Elijah Lacey, a resident of Niles since 1836, died Wednesday, aged 77 years. Her funeral occurred Friday at 10 a.m.