Occupation: Farmer
MO d/c 21654
(Contributed by Pam Witherow)

Death of Old Citizen.
It is with deep sorrow that we are called on this week to chronicle the passing of one of the oldest and best beloved citizen of Marion county. Judpe W. F.McPike, of near Emerson. His death occurred between seven and eight o clock last Friday evening, and while it was realized he was not long for this earth on account of his advanced years, the summon, came as a shock. For one of his age he had been enjoying unusual health, and was up and around the place that day, and was in his usual happy frame of mind.
He was bom in Henry county, Kentucky, December 9th, 1832, but when six years old came with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jas. McPike, to Marion county, and settled in the Emerson vicinity, where he has lived ever since, and with the exception of the past few year he has been a leader in every movement for the betterment of his neighborhood and the county at large. He never intruded himself in other people's affairs, but took an active interest in the welfare of his neighbor, and his kindly manner and evident sincerity of purpose proved an inspiration to many a younger man. Prior to the time that old age compelled him remain at home, his acquaintance was very large, and there were but few in the western part of the county that did not know him personally and regard him as a friend. His title of Judge was obtained when he served on the county bench, and he has occupied other position of honor and trust, but as a rule he did not care for prominence, and took more real pleasure in advancing the interests of his friends than those of himself.
We know our readers will pardon the personal reference when we say that Judge McPike was probably the oldest continuous reader of the Spectator. Only a few months ago he told us that his father was one of the original subscribers, and that he had read the first number, when it was called the Missouri Whig. So far as we know, he has never missed a copy since then, and we are told that he read it through the day before his death.
The funeral service were held at the Emerson Baptist church Sunday afternoon, of which congregation he had been an active and consistent member for many years. Rev. A. S. Ingman had the services in charge.
His wife preceded him in death in November, 1913, but he is survived by the following children, and a large number of more distant relatives: Dr. Jas. McPike, Fabius township; W. A. McPike, Quincy; John B. McPike, Maywood; H. H. McPike, Round Grove; Mrs. R. W. McCann, Hanford, Cal.; Mrs. Jennie English, Round Grove; Aaron A. McPike, Chicago; Jeter McPike and Misses Eva and Snoda McPike, with whom he made his home.
The Palmyra Spectator, Palmyra, Missouri, 26 Jul 1922, Wed • Page 6, Column 3
(Contributed by Pam Witherow)