Loretta Leola Grafford
Jan. 31, 1914-Feb. 13, 1933
Niles Daily Star, Tuesday, February 14, 1933, page 3, col. 6-8, microfilm Niles District Library
MISS LORETTA GRAFFORD IS STRICKEN AT HOME
Dies after illness Lasting Since Before Mid-Year Holidays
Miss Loretta Leola Grafford, 19, daughter of George W. Grafford, assistant road master of the Michigan Central Railroad company, and Mrs. Grafford, died in their home last evening at 10:30 after having been ill since before Christmas. The death of Miss Grafford last evening followed that of her sister, Grace, 20, within less than a year, the latter having died on March 20, 1932. Much sympathy is felt for Mr.and Mrs. Grafford and their family in the loss of the two daughters. The brief lapse of time between their deaths deepens their sorrow.
Miss Grafford was born in Porter, Ind., on Jan. 31, 1914. The family came to Niles when she was a small girl. She began her education in the kindergarten grades of the Niles public schools and received her entire education here with the exception of two years when the family lived in Michigan City, having returned to that city in accordance with Mr. Grafford's plan of work. Nine years ago the family again moved to Niles and have since resided here. Miss Grafford was graduated last June from the Niles High school. Last April her health began to fail but after an operation she was able to continue her studies. However, since before Christmas she had been confined to her bed. Her nineteenth birthday anniversary a week ago today was an occasion for more than 40 friends to remember her with flowers and greeting cards.
Miss Grafford is survived by her parents, by two brothers and two sisters, Russell and William Grafford, Mrs. Cleland Pirdy and Vivian Grafford, all of Niles. an d by her grandmother, Mrs. Jennie Rogers, of Mishawaka, Ind.
The funeral services will be held in the home on Thursday afternoon at 3 o'clock. The Rev. G.W. Simon, pastor of the Presbyterian church, will officiate. Burial will be made in Silverbrook cemetery.