Birth: August 26, 1853
Death: June 30, 1940
Location: Lot 25, Section 2, Row 2, Old Cemetery – SW
Lucinda Harper passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Andy (Bertha) Stone, Sunday afternoon, June 30, at 1:00 p.m. She had been ill only a few hours when the end came and the news of her passing was a shock to her friends.
Lucinda Jane Gano was born in Ohio on August 26, 1852. She was married to John Harper on August 26, 1868 at Lane, Illinois at the age of 16. To this union five children were born, who survive to mourn the loss of a devoted mother. They are Mrs. Emma Riesland of Lincoln, Neb., Sam Harper of Omaha, Neb., Nora Brunner, Bertha (Babe) Stone, and Eddie (Bud) Harper, all of Wood River.
The family moved to Wood River on Feb. 24, 1893 and located on a farm north of town where they lived four years. In 1897 they moved into the town property where Grandma made her home continuously until her death. Her husband, John W. Harper, died the 29th of May, 1916.
Grandma Harper, as she was called by young and old alike, shared the joys and sorrows of her neighbors and friends throughout the early days of pioneer life in the vicinity, was always ready to help in time of trouble and sorrow. She was happiest when home with her family around her and their devotion to her was unceasing. With a wide knowledge of current topics and a keen insight into human nature, it was a pleasure to visit with her.
Mrs. Harper was for many years a faithful member of the Presbyterian church. Funeral services were held from the church on Wednesday afternoon, July 3, 1940 with Rev. Fenton C. Jones officiating. “My Task is Done” and “An Evening Prayer” were sung by Mrs. John Jewett who was accompanied by Mrs. Melvin Lanman at the piano.
Casket bearers were H.P. Honold, E.L. Thelen, Rudolph Gloe, Carl McGlasson, John Jewett, and C.O. Williams. Interment was made in the Wood River Cemetery