WILLIAM H. HUGHES GRAVESTONE PHOTO
Buried at Gridley Cemetery, Gridley, Coffey Co., KS.
Died: Sept. 3, 1916
The community was shocked Sunday morning to hear that Uncle Billy Hughes, as he was familiarly known, was dead. His health had been poorly for several years but his final sickness lasted less than a week.
William H. Hughes was born in Blossburgh, Penn., March 25, 1846. He removed with his parents in 1856 to Dodgeville, Wisconsin. On January 27, 1864 he enlisted in the Union army and was honorably discharged about a year later at the end of the war.
He moved to New Cambria, Missouri, in June 1865 and December 9, 1865, he was married to Miss Mary Thomas. In February 1870 they moved to a farm east of Burlington where they lived for 2 years, when they went to Osage City, and made their home till 1881. To this union were born two daughters, Mamie and Della, their mother dying September 10, 1877.
April 19, 1881 he was united in marriage to Mrs. Margaret Rice of Gridley. To this union two boys and two girls were born, Albert, who died September 22, 1902, Grace who died in October 1910, Mary Mellon of Los Angeles, California, and Mark who died in infancy. Their mother died October 28, 1911. Mr. Hughes was a member of the M. E. church, the Masonic lodge and the G. A. R. He was an active member in all and made many friends who mourn with the children and grandchildren in their bereavement. Uncle Billy was a friend of all old and young.
The funeral services were held at the M. E. church conducted by the pastor, Rev. Jassen who delivered an able sermon. Music was furnished by the Masonic male quartet composed of Messrs. Simpson, Pitcher, Flory and Crow.
The pall bearers were J. W. Maclaskey, Thos. Brooks, Griff Williams, Wm. Merrill, Marion Fleming and H. F. Redfearn.
From the church the Masonic lodge took charge of the services conducting the body to the grave where the impressive services of that order were given. J. R. Auspaugh delivered the funeral oration like a veteran and M. B. Crow as marshal had charge of the marching. Mr. Hughes has been a member of the fraternity for a great many years and was always loyal and faithful.