Elizabeth Williams
abt. 1814-May 1, 1882
Niles Democrat, Saturday, May 13, 1882, page 3, col. 4, microfilm Niles District Library
Entered Into Rest
Mrs. Elizabeth Williams departed this life at her residence in West Niles, on Monday, May 1st, aged 68 years. Mrs. Williams was born in Delaware, and emigrated to Michigan during its pioneer history, living in Niles for 46 years. Her husband, William Williams, an esteemed and prominent citizen, brother of Caleb Williams of this city, died many years since, leaving eight children, six of whom preceded her to the spirit world. These repeated afflictions were heavy trials to her, especially the loss of two sons, Will and Frank, grown to manhood, upon whom she had placed so many hopes. for her declining years. Yet she bore all with the calmness and fortitude that marked her life; her trust in every sorrow being, in the "Rock that is higher than I." She was ever hopeful, and could sing in almost the darkest hour. To her friends she was steadfast, and so helpful, tender and kind, that those who knew her best, and were the recipients of her cheering Christian words and offices, feel now that she is gone, as one tried and true, who ministered to her during her last illness, emphatically says: "I have lost my best friend." Naturally retiring and unobtrusive, absorbed in her family cares and duties, the world knew little of her worth; but in the quiet home circle or at her neighbor's hearth in time of trial, the many excellent traits of her character, shone forth with richest lustre. her sickness of months was borne with fortitude, and her last hours were triumphant. Patient, toiling, and suffering, yet sustained by a precious hope, she has entered into rest. For her the warfare is over, the victory gained, the crown won. Why should we weep when the exchange is so full of peace and happiness. Tears, sorrow, and disappointment in our thorny pathway here, but immortal love, joy and life, "over there."
The one after another, of those identified with the early history of Niles are passing away. Soon, of the little struggling band that came to these unbroken wilds, and have lived to see this beautiful St. Joseph valley bud and blossom as the rose, none will be left. Even now the familiar faces are scarcely recognized amid the busy throng that fill our streets.
The preparation of this little tribute has been one of mournful pleasure. A friendship with the deceased, formed by the writer in childhood, and closely cemented through all the intervening years, gives poignance to the pang of separation, and makes her loss, a personal sorrow. In her last hours, there was loving remembrance and now the thought that there will be no more meetings on earth, brings grief that cannot be assuaged. But by and by, in the beautiful beyond, we shall meet where there will no more partings.
To the now lonely daughters, Mrs. Mary Hustin and Miss Carrie Williams, the deepest sympathy will be extended in their irreparable loss. M.S.A.