William Hosie Robertson was born Dec. 14, 1849. Departed
this life June 10, 1921, at 4 p.m. aged 71 years, 5 months and
26 days.
He was born near McCormick, Ill., and lived in that community
all his life with the exception of about a year, spent in Arkansas.
He was left practically on his own resources very early in life,
his father having died shortly after coming to this country. Uncle
Bill made his home with friends and relatives during his boyhood
and young manhood days.
At some time in his early life he learned the blacksmith's trade,
which he followed for about fifteen years. After his marriage
he quit blacksmithing to take up farming, which he followed until
about three years ago, when he retired on account of failing health.
He was married Sept. 11, 1873, to Salina Darthula Bilderbeck.
To them were born seven children, viz: Malachi, of Marion, Ill.,
Ezra, of Ozark, Ill., John A., who died in infancy, Pina E. Estes,
of Kearney, Neb., Mary Lambert, of Marion, Ill., Thomas M., of
New Burnside, and Myrtle, of St. Louis.
Uncle Bill professed faith in Christ about 30 years ago, and was
always a faithful attendant at church, an ardent Bible student,
and a true lover of the gospel. He enjoyed hearing songs, and
singing many good old hymns, his favorite being "I Shall
be at Home with Jesus While Eternal Ages Roll," which when
sung, always filled his "cup" to overflowing. He was
a member of Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church.
Uncle Bill was confined to his bed about nine weeks. In spite
of his long confinement and suffering, he was happy on his death
bed. He said to his companion, as he grew worse, "Let's go
home." The end came very peacefully. He closed his eyes and
seemingly fell asleep. He will be missed in the home as a devoted
father, in the community as a neighbor and citizen who stood firm
for the cause of right and the upbuilding of his community.
Funeral services conducted by Rev. Bert Baker, Interment in Zion
Cemetery.
_____copied by Linda