William Edgar Poe, the eldest son of Benjamin Franklin and Delana Jane (Redden) Poe was born in Effingham County, Illinois on August 4, 1869. He had spent most of his life in this county.

He passed away on Saturday, March 20, 1926 at the age of 56 years, 7 months and 16 days. He died at his home at the northern limits of Effingham, where he had been in failing health for several months, and his death was caused by cancererous stomach trouble.

William E. Poe was united in marriage to Miriam Hester Beal of Clay County, Illinois on July 31, 1893. To this union ten children were born, seven sons, and three daughters.

At the time of his death he leaves behind his beloved wife and ten children namely: Elwood, John, William Jr., Edwin, Jesse, Glenn and Woodrow; Mrs. John (Alpha) Shadwell, Mrs. Harry (Belva) Shadwell and Mrs. Clinton (Clova) Smith; twelve grandchildren; three brothers: Claude and Ell Poe of Effingham County, and Albert Poe of Missouri; four sisters: Mrs. Rosa Eskew, Mrs. Cora Gephart, Mrs. Clara Gibson of Dieterich and Mrs. Lucy Calhoun of Wayne City, along with many other relatives and friends. There are three sons and three daughters married, and four sons at home. Those at home were Edwin, Glenn, Jesse, and Woodrow.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two grandsons, Robert Smith and Glen Shadwell.

After the body was prepared for viewing by the White Funeral Home on West Jefferson Avenue, Effingham, it will lay in state in the parlor of the Poe home. The funeral was conducted at the Poe residence on Monday by Rev. J.E. Shafer, assisted by Rev. Hall pastor's of the Christian Church. Burial was at the Poe Rinehart Cemetery, located in the southern part of Effingham.

He has lived a respectable and faithful life and one to which we can look back without shame or regret. He bore his suffering with patience and fortitude and without a murmur. He was an honest and industrious citizen and provided well for his family. He was well respected by all his friends and neighbors that he came in contact with. He was ever ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

"Card Of Thanks"
We desire to thank the many friends and neighbors for their help and kindness during the illness and death of our husband and father. Also thanks to those that worked so faithfully at the cemetery in the rain.
Mrs. Miriam H. Poe and children