HENRY FRANKLIN STAGGS

Henry Franklin Staggs, son of James and Amanda Mains Staggs, was born in Jackson township, Parke County, Indiana, August 22, 1859; entered into blessed rest on the morning of January 19, 1934, at the age of 74 years, 4 months and 27 days. All of his life he had resided at or within a few miles of his birthplace except for a few years spent when a small boy with his parents in Missouri.
On November 6, 1878, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Frances Spencer, who was called to the heavenly home in 1895. To their union, six children were born, two daughters, Ora Myrtle Reed of Bellmore and Maude Harney of Jackson township, and four sons, Herman Staggs of Catlin vicinity, Joseph of Clinton Falls, Edgar of Brazil and Wanda Earl of Indianapolis.
The deceased married a second time on November 15, 1895, his bride being Miss Effie May Carlin, and their marriage was also blessed with six children, two daughters, Lillie Wilson of Bainbridge and Ola Walls of Roachdale, and four sons, Clarence P. Staggs of Ferndale vicinity and Hazel Ray, Frank and Olem all at home. All 12 children are with the faithful wife left to mourn. Others survivors include 32 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, a sister Mrs. Emma Allgood of Bainbridge and a half-sister, Mrs. Belle Lime of Knoxville, Tenn.
For the most part during his adult life, the deceased made his living by farming, although we would do whatever work he found to do. He was skillful in shearing sheep and for 56 years followed this line of work in the spring time. He was an industrious man but declining health had hindered his activities for a number of years. An insidious disease slowly sapped his vitality and made him quite miserable. He endured in silence making a brave fight and was only confined to his bed a short time before his passing. All possible was done for his comfort and happiness by his devoted wife and children until the end. He never affiliated with any church nor made open profession but in his religious belief he held to that of the United Brethren denomination. He enjoyed attending services and often did so when physically able. He was a man who lived the plain, simple life of an upright citizen, good neighbor and trustworthy friend who held the respect of his fellowmen and the love of kindred and friends. In the family circle he was a kind husband, father and grandfather. He knew the end was approaching and talked to his loved ones about it; but he knew no fear of death, for with the sublime confidence of one who had tried to live right and believed firmly in his Savior's precious promise of salvation he was content to await his call. And thus he passed from labor to reward. "To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die."--33


Rockville, Indiana, Wednesday, November 20, 1895

FRANK STAGGS DIES AT FERNDALE HOME

Frank Staggs, aged 74, years, died at his home in Ferndale vicinity Friday morning after an illness of several years duration.
(note: goes on to list survivors, listed in preceding obituary)
Funeral services, largely attended, were held at Farmers Chapel, Sunday morning at 11 o'clock, the Rev. Wm. McKeehan of Beech Grove officiating. Misses Harriett and Marcella Martin sang three appropriate hymns with Mrs. Walter Martin pianist, and an obituary was read. Mr. Staggs was born and reared in the community where he died and was well and favorably known.