Annie E. Finley
Feb. 2, 1865-Sept. 14, 1910
Niles Daily Sun, Wednesday, September 14, 1910, page 1, col. 2
MRS. WALTER FINLEY
Well Known Cateress Died Today Without Warning
Mrs. Annie Finley, the well known cateress, wife of Walter Finley died very suddenly this morning about 5 o'clock at their home 710 Emmons street while she was still in bed.
Mr. Finley had already arisen for the day and receiving no response from his wife went to her bedside to arouse her. He found her in a dying condition and although a physician was hurriedly summoned she passed away before he arrived without regaining consciousness.
Mrs. Finley had not been ill and only last evening a social gathering was held at her home when she appeared in excellent health and spirits, hence her death was a great shock to her family and friends.
Mrs. Finley who was 41 years of age came to Niles 14 years [ago] and for the three years following she was employed as a domestic at the home of Mrs. Edward Bacon or until her marriage to Mr. Finley in 1910[sic].
Besides her husband, two children, aged six and three years respectively survive her also four brothers and two sisters.
Mrs. Finley was well and favorably known in Niles and her services as a caterer were greatly in demand. By her industry and thrift she had assisted her husband in acquiring a nicely appointed home of their own in West Niles of which she was justly proud.
The funeral arrangements have not been made.
Niles Daily Star, Wednesday, September 14, 1910, page 2, col. 1, microfilm Niles District Library
MRS. WALTER FINLEY DIES
Was One of the Best Known Caterers in the City
Mrs. Walter Finley, colored, aged 40 years, passed away at her home, 710 Emmons street, this morning at 5 o'clock of heart disease. Her demise comes as a sudden blow to a great many, she having been one of the best known colored women in this city.
She retired last evening about 10:30 o'clock in perfect health, having previously talked to a number of friends who were visiting her, of celebrating her 10th wedding anniversary, which would have occurred Oct. 31.
Mr. Finley having been awakened by her moans in her vain efforts to foil death, quickly ran for help from neighbors, but when he returned five minutes later she had passed away.
For many years Mrs. Finley had been a caterer, preparing luncheons and dinners for elaborate social functions in this city. She was known as an excellent cook and her services, which had extended to different parties years after year, will be greatly missed.
Besides her husband the deceased is survived by two children--Mary Pauline, aged seven years, and Walter Julian, aged three years; three sisters and three brothers, The brothers and sisters all reside out of town.
The funeral arrangements will not be made until a brother and sister residing in Chicago arrive.
Niles Daily Star, Wednesday, September 15, 1910, page 3, col. 1, microfilm Niles District Library
The funeral services of the late Mrs. Walter Finley will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock from the A.M.E. church, also short services at the home. Chas. Ager will officiate. Interment at Silver Brook cemetery.