William Pearle Newlon was born March 1, 1848 in Morgan County, IL and died unexpectedly Monday evening, May 4, 1925, at the home of his son, Arthur, aged 77 years, 2 months and 3 days. His sudden death was caused by an accident which meant a severe shock for his entire family.

The earlier years of his life were spent at the place of his birth. When he was 20 he moved to Macon County and later Woodford County and other places until he moved to Henry County, Lorain township.

He married Alice Buckley in 1878. They had five children: Joe Newlon of Wells, MN, James, Arthur, Claude and Rose (Newlon) Wirth, all living in Lorain township. In 1849 death removed his life's companion from his side. After being a widower for four years, he entered into a second marriage with Mrs. Amanda Isabelle (Zinser) Helton. This union was blessed with four children: Mrs Sarah Breese of Tuttle, OK, Mrs. Pearl Oltman of Minonk, IL, Mrs. Ruth Eilers of Floyd,IA and Mrs. Ethel Hill of Thayer, IN.

With the exception of his younger years which he spent as a printer, his time was occupied with farming. Even since retiring he made himself useful wherever he made his stay, till death commanded a sudden halt and rest from all labor.

Mr Newlon was a man of friendly disposition, making friends wherever he made his stay, always concerned about the welfare of his children. He leaves to mourn besides his companion and children mentioned above, 37 grandchildren, and two step-children, Mrs. H. J. Heineke (Lizzie) of Benson, IL and William Helton of Boise, ID and many friends.

The funeral service was held on Thursday afternoon at the home of Mr. Newlon's son, Arthur. Interment was made at the Loraine township cemetery, Rev J. V. Bischoff, pastor of Zion Evangelical church at Hooppole, officiating.

(From his obituary)