Thomas Jefferson Forbes
Thomas Jefferson Forbes, son of James and Elizabeth Forbes, was born in DeWitt County, IL., January 27, 1859 and passed away at his home in Redding, Iowa, April 1, 1943, at the age of 84 years, two months and four days. He was the oldest of a family of five boys. His father died when he was nine years of age and he from then on largely took care of himself and helped care for his younger brothers.
He was united in marriage to Sarah Ann Dixon, October 8, 1879 at DeWitt, IL. To this union were born eight children. Two children are deceased, Minor C., November 20, 1902, at the age of eight years and Alice Cunningham, May 11, 1918.
The surviving children are C.W. Forbes of LeRoy, IL., T.E. Forbes of Bagley, Mn., Mrs. Ila Saville of Redding, Mrs. Winifred Mulholland of Viola, MN., Mrs. Eura Mulholland of Bagley, MN. and Mrs. Grace Drews of Rochester, MN. He leaves two brothers, Alex Forbes of Bloomington, IL. and Joseph Forbes of southern IL.; also 16 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. One grandson was deceased 13 years ago.
The family came to Iowa about 1900 and have made their home in Ringgold County with the exception of a few years in North Dakota and Minnesota. They returned from Minnesota to Ringgold County, Iowa 23 years ago. Since retiring from farming, Mr. Forbes had worked as a carpenter and painter. Mrs. Forbes passed away July 25, 1939.
Mr. Forbes united in membership with the Methodist Church near DeWitt, IL., about 1894 following a revival meeting. He and Mrs. Forbes transferred their membership to the Redding Methodist Church in 1922 under the pastorate of the Rev. C.C. Callahan. For several years he served on the church board and at one time taught Sunday school class and for the past few years served as a parsonage trustee.
Grandpa Forbes was energetic, industrious and liked to be busy and see things move along. Heart trouble due to his advanced years confined him to his home the past several months. The thoughts of spending his last days in bed were discouraging to one of his disposition and energetic spirit.
He sought to make contributions to the good of the community and he leaves friends among both young and old.
Funeral services were conducted Sunday afternoon, April 4, 1943, at the Redding Methodist Church by Rev. E.B. Stewart, pastor. Burial was made in Middle Fork Cemetery.
