Mrs. Mansel Barnes died at her home in this city at 5:20 a.m. on last Tuesday, March 23, 1915, after a 4 weeks' illness. During the 12 hours immediately preceding her death she seemed to suffer no pain, the end coming as in a quiet peaceful sleep.

In the death of Mrs. Barnes Comanche-co. loses another of her early settlers and highly esteemed citizens. It was February, 1891, that she, with her husband and family, moved from near Rolla, Phelps-co., Mo., to this county, settling a few miles southwest of Coldwater. A few years ago Mr. and Mrs. Barnes moved from the farm to town. Mr. Barnes died on May 9, 1913.

Elizabeth Downs was born near Sandusky, Ohio, on February 23, 1840. At the time of death her age was 75 years and 1 month. On June 15, 1854, in Ohio, she was united in marriage with Alfred Steadman. To this union were born 4 children - James M. Steadman, whose home was near Greensburg; W. J. Steadman of Siloam Springs, Ark.; Franklin L. Steadman of Bucklin, and Mrs. M. J. Elliott of this city. Alfred Steadman died in June 13, 1865. J. M. Steadman died on June 27, 1908. On July 21, 1867, deceased was married to Mansel Barnes in Madison, Wis. To this union 6 children were born - Eugene, Delbert, Nat and Orland Barnes and Mrs. John R. Morter, whose homes are in Comanche-co., and Avia Barnes of Siloam Springs, Ark.

In the truest sense of the word, Mrs. Barnes was a good woman. Her kindness, neighborliness and real helpfulness to those about her were proverbial. It seems to be her constant aim to be of some service to others. It was frequently said of her that, "she was called upon oftener than were the doctors." In her home life she exemplified the highest type of devotion and self sacrifices as a wife and mother. During nearly all her life she had been a member of the Presbyterian church, and in countless ways she honored and sincerely served her Master.

Funeral services were conducted at the Presbyterian church at 2 o'clock p.m. on Tuesday, the pastor, Rev. W. B. Leonard, being in charge. Interment was made in the Coldwater cemetery.

Also see:

Cora (Clark) Barnes, mother in law of Elizabeth (Downs) Steadman Barnes.

Thanks to Shirley Brier for finding, transcribing and contributing the above news article to this web site!