Sept. 19, 1830-October 25, 1918
Niles Daily Sun, Monday, October 28, 1918, page 4, col 4, microfilm Niles District Library
The funeral services for Mrs. Rachel Wells were held Sunday afternoon, from the late residence in Bertrand township in the presence of a large gathering of friends. Rev. Braby of Buchanan conducted the services. Interment occurred at Silver Brook cemetery.
Niles Daily Sun, Wednesday, October 30, 1918, page 4, col. 5, microfilm Niles District Library.
OBITUARY
Mrs. [Rachel] Herkimer Wells was born in Herkimer county, New York, on Sept. 19, 1830. When just a young girl she came with her parents to Bertrand township, Michigan, and from that time on made that locality her home.
She was married to Francis Wells on Feb. 9, 1853, and to this union nine children were born, four of whom died in early childhood. The sadness of bereavement again came to Mrs. Wells, when, wfter 45 years of the closest companionship, her husband was called from this life on July 30, 1898. In 1915 the sadness caused by the loss of loved ones again was felt when her son Charles passed away. Notwithstanding these times of sorrow, Mrs. Wells held close to her faith and trust in the Great Father of us all. She knew in whom she had believed and He was her strength and stay, the refuge in the time of storm. She united with the First Presbyterian church in Buchanan on Oct. 2, 1886, and for 32 years had been a faithful and devoted member of that organization. Because of increasing years and failing health she gave up her farm home about three years ago and made her residence in Buchanan, where her friends and loved ones kept in constant touch with her. Though living to the venerable age of 88 years, her mind and intellect were as keen as ever and she took a lively interest in the concerns of her family and in the events of the community and the world.
It was only a few weeks ago that a more serious breakdown in health occurred and from that time on weakness gradually increased until the final call came at 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon, Oct. 25. It was a call long anticipated in perfect tranquility and peace of mind. Mrs. Wells enjoyed her life and loved ones, but she was perfectly ready and content to go Home and meet the loved ones gone before. Her life had been a confession of faith and trust proving her unfaltering belief in her God.
Mrs. Wells is survived by four of her children, two sons, Frank and Isaac M. and two daughters, Mrs. Joel H. Gillette and Mrs. Fred A. Tichenor. Besides these there are seven grandchildren and one great grandchild and an innumerable host of friends. Once again we together experience the sadness caused by the death of one grown dear, yet through the sorrow comes the ray of joy because our mother and friend has gone in to see the King and we know that she is satisfied and at rest in her prepared place among the many mansions.
Funeral services were held at the old homestead Sunday afternoon, Oct. 27, conducted by Rev. N.D. Brady, pastor of the Buchanan Presbyterian church.
Interment was made in Silver Brook cemetery at Niles.
Same appeared in Niles Daily Star, Thursday, Oct. 31, 1918, page 2, col. 2, microfilm Niles District Library