THE END OF A GOOD LADY
Mrs. Martha Files Dies After Months of Suffering

Monday evening, shortly after the fading rays of twilight had passed out of view, the spirit of Mrs. Martha A. Files took its flight to another world and to the God who gave it, and all was sad at that home because mother, who is the best earthly friend of man, was no more.

For more than a year she had been an invalid and a constant sufferer from a complication of diseases, mainly from stomach trouble. During all her months of suffering she had been patient, and bearing up under her great affliction with noble fortitude. She was at all times administered to by her children and loving friends, who watched at her bedside, attempting to comfort her during the long, dreary days of her illness.

She was a loving mother, a noble lady, possessing rare domestic traits, which fitted her so well for the duties of the home life which she so much loved and was devoted to. Her friendship was strong and lasting, seldom if ever allowing a friend to be eliminated from her, after once placing her affections upon them.

Quiet, unpretentious, but charitable and kind, not perhaps in her whole life did she allow to pass by an opportunity to benefit and elevate suffering humanity.

Chapters could be written on the life of noble women like Mrs. Files, but suffice it to say that she has left a life that will be a rose tinted heritage to the community, that is fragrant with a pure character, a noble spirit and a loving disposition.

The funeral services were held from the family residence Tuesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. H. Smith, pastor of the M.E. church, after which her remains were laid to rest in the city cemetary along side of her husband, who preceded her to the grave.

Martha Ann Ewers Files was born in Knox county, Ohio, Dec. 7th, 1830, and departed this life Aug. 13th 1900, aged 70 years, 8 months and 6 days. She was united in marriage to Wm. Files in the year 1849. To them were born seven children, five of whom are living, viz: Wm. E., Blanche and Ella, of Lamonte, Mrs. C.W. Weidman of Knobnoster, and Mrs. P.H. Leese, of Espanola, New Mexico. Henry Williams, an adopted son, was raised by them from childhood. Mr. Files died June 24, 1893. All the children were present at the death of their mother except one daughter. In addition to these there were four grandchildren, a brother and a number of relatives and friends to mourn their loss.

Source: La Monte, Missouri, newspaper, 17 August 1900