Emily Sarah Averill-Stiles was born in Norrage, Canada, December 25, 1825, and died at her home in Polkton, Mich., February 27, 1895, of heart disease.
For many years she has been a great sufferer from heart and stomach troubles, and often times have her loved ones been called to her side to bid one of the most faithful friends an eternal goodbye, but each time she rallied and appeared for a short time to improve, only again to succumb to the same dreaded disease. She always bore her sufferings with great patience and trusted in Him whom she had put her faith in for so many years to do what is right.
Deceased moved with her parents from Canada to Battle Creek, Mich., when thirteen years old, where she resided until 1846, when she was united in marriage to Chauncey S. Stiles. After one year's residence in that place they moved to Polkton, Ottawa county, and settled on the present homestead, then a wilderness, where they began to hew out a home for themselves. To Mr. and Mrs. Stiles were born ten children, of whom the four oldest died when quite young. The remaining six, who have been spared to mourn her loss, are: Emma J., wife of G. L. Root of this place; Edgar C., of Grand Rapids; Julia F., wife of C. A. Mills of Grand Rapids; Chauncey C., who she was living with at the old home; Wm. P. and Frank A., of Coopersville; each of whom the greatest desire has ever been to anticipate her every want and gratify her every wish.
In 1881 her beloved companion was called to a higher home, since which time she has continued to reside on the old farm she loved so well, with her son, who assumed the management after the death of his father.
Mrs. Stiles has been a life-long Christian and a member of the M. E. Church for thirty-three years. As a companion she was one of the most devoted wives, ever willing to bear the most extreme hardships that are so manifest in the settlement of a new region. As a mother, none could be more faithful and loving; none more kind and affectionate; always elated over every success and sadly grieved over any misfortune. As a neighbor, always thoughtful of the wants of others; her hand was always extended to their aid, and her face a blessing to all who saw it. Indeed, we may say that these children have lost an exceptionally true mother, and the community a most honored citizen.
The services were conducted by Rev. J. H. Bennett, whose text was taken from Psalm 35:14. The interment was in the Adventist cemetery beside her companion and four children, the oldest one of which was buried there.