The Columbus Republican
Columbus, Indiana
Thursday, October 12, 1899
Page 8

Obituary

Thomas Franklin Steenbarger, son of Joseph E. and Mattie F. Steenbarger, was born May 23rd, 1879, and died October 7th, 1899, being 20 years, 4 months and 14 days old. When about 10 years of age he became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and confessed religion under the pastorate of Rev. J.L. Perry with Petersville congregation.

This death is rendered more distressingly sad on account of its suddenness by which a youth just entering manhood was stricken down. Tom, as he was known and will be remembered by all his large circle of friends, had, by his kind and generous disposition, built a foundation for a useful and honorable life that would have shone out upon others. It was his aim and apparently his greatest pleasure to extend a helping hand to those in distress. This with his pleasant and gernerous disposition, was the strongest trait in his character. His friends are counted to the full bounds of his acquaintance, and while nowhere else like the home circle will he be missed, yet other will miss the sunlight he reflected upon them with his presence and in this way will he yet live.

The funeral took place at Petersville Methodist church on Monday, Oct. 9, at 10:30 o'clock, conducted by Rev R.H. Moore, of Indianapolis, assisted by Rev. W.B. Grimes. Bro. Moore preached a very impressive funeral sermon. The funeral drew a large attendance of mourners and friends and was one of the largest funerals held in that church for many years. The remains were interred at Garland Brook, where they now lay at rest. Brother and Sister Steenbarger and family have the sympathy of a large circle of friends and neighbors.