After a brief illness, resulting from an attack of influenza with pneumonia complications, Mrs. S. J. Gilchrist died at her home in this city at 12:20 a.m. yesterday, October 17, 1918. The news of her death came as a surprise and conveyed to all a sense of peculiar sadness. As is the case with many other influenza pneumonia patients, the disease made rapid inroads upon her vitality and despite the best efforts of loving hands and of medical skill, her life rapidly slipped away.Deceased was the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Curran, who were among the early day settlers in this county. She was born in this county on the 5th day of March, 1891. Her age at the time of her death was 27 years, 6 months and 12 days. On October 12, 1912, in Lawrence, Kansas she was united in marriage with S. J. Gilchrist. Three children were born to this union - Virginia, aged about 5, Pattie, aged about 3, and John, aged 10 months.
Mrs. Gilchrist, formerly Miss Idress Curran, was educated principally in Coldwater schools, graduating with the class of 1910. Later she attended the University of Kansas for a year or more. With all her associates she was popular, her kindly and pleasing demeanor always winning lasting friends. She was a member of the Presbyterian church of this city and was active in social and religious work. The home which is so bereaved by her death, and the entire community, as well, will miss her and will feel keenly the loss of a good friend, a loving wife and mother. Mrs. Gilchrist's mother died about four years ago. Her father has since made his home with Mr. and Mrs. Gilchrist.
John, Mr. and Mrs. Gilchrist's young son, died shortly before noon yesterday, less than 12 hours after the mother had died. The death of the little one brings additional sadness to the home which has been made so bright by his presence. Mr. Gilchrist had been quite sick, but was better yesterday morning.
Arrangements for the holding of funeral services had not been definitely decided upon at the time of going to press, but it is probable that the time will be Friday afternoon. The bereaved family have the heartfelt sympathy of all. Their hearts are bowed with grief, but the eternal truths of the Gospel of Christ abide, and in His word we are told, "All things work together for good to them that love God."
Also see:
Ada (Macomb) Curran, mother of Idress (Curran) Gilchrist.
George Curran, brother of Idress (Curran) Gilchrist.
Thomas J. Curran, father of Idress (Curran) Gilchrist.
Maude (Curran) Holcomb, sister of Idress (Curran) Gilchrist.
Thanks to Shirley Brier for finding, transcribing and contributing the above news article to this web site!
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