IA--The Cambridge Leader....26 May 1927
JAMES W BETTS: 87, son of Jeremiah & Eliza-beth Betts was born in MercerCnty PA in Jul 1839. After several months of serious illness, he departed this life May 10th at RedondoWA-a beach resort near Seattle. He was the first born of the family & was always respectful to his parents. In 1857 they emigrated to IA, settling in the central part. At the call of his country during the Rebellion, he enlisted in the 23rd IA Vol INF. After the war, he settled in the vicinity of Cambridge, where he spent most of the active years of his life. His occupation was farming, he was esteemed by his acquaintances as a deserving citizen. At the time of his death he owned some of the best property in Cambridge.
He is survived by his wife whom he married about 3yrs ago in WA, where she will continue to make her home, also 1 sis: MrsDavid Sharp-D'Moines & the following children all remain: IdaM Hurd & Winifred Thornton-both of Ankeny; Albert-Grimes; Walter-ValleyJunction; Jerry-D'Moines & Adelbert-Carroll. There are 27 grandchildren & several gr grandchildren.
His associations in life were well represented at the last service. The few surviving GAR Veterans attended, tho their organization here was dropped because they are too few in number to hold a charter. The IOOF whom he was long affiliated with attended in uniform. He was the oldest member of the United Brethern Church where the funeral was held, tho not for the longest term of years, the pastor RevDE Myers officiating. The American Legion attended in military uniform & fired a salute at the grave.
The 4 sons & 2 grandsons, Gerald & Gaylord; acted as pallbearers. An impressive sight & tribute for an appreciated parent. Burial was made in the family lot at WhiteOak Cem.