Obituary from Bagley Gazette, Thursday, 8/23/1917: Mrs. George S. Gidley

Martha Nowels was born December 9, 1853, in Scott county, Iowa, and died at Bagley, Iowa, August 13, 1917. In 1880 she came to Guthrie county with her parents, who settled on the farm in Dodge township now owned by M.B. Carrick. She was united in marriage to Geo. S. Gidley, September 26, 1882. To this union was born one daughter, Marie, now Mrs. F. W. Smith. Up to five years ago, she and her husband lived on their farm in this township, when they removed to Bagley, because of her failing health.

Mrs. Gidley accepted Christ as her Savior early in life and became a member of the M.E. church, which membership she retained until her death. She lived a consistent Christian life, which endeared her to all who came to know her intimately. Her life was gentle, but like the still waters it was deep. In her heart of hearts she carried those she loved and her hand was never weary, her step never failed in ministering unto, caring for, and waiting upon those who were in any way dependent upon her.

The deceased is survived by her husband and daughter, and many relatives.

The following relatives from other towns attended the funeral: Mr. and Mrs. [Ida] F. W. Smith and children, of Redfield; Mr. and Mrs. [Mary Tacy] Whelock [sic], of Marshalltown; Mrs. Clayton Kelsey and Mrs. A. Peterman, of Fedora, S.D.; Frank Hidlebaugh, Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Neal and Mrs. Garnes [? Barnes], of Bayard; Mr. and Mrs. John Nowels and Mr. and Mrs. Harry Neal, of Osage, Canada.

Card of Thanks
We hereby extend our heartfelt thanks to our friends for the many acts of kindness and the beautiful floral tributes by which they endeavored to lighten our burden of sorrow, caused by the death of our beloved wife and mother.
Geo. S. Gidley,
Mrs. F. W. Smith.