Tribune, August 14, 1926, page 1

MRS. RACHEL E. MONTGOMERY

Rachel Elizabeth Barnes, third child of James and Elizarah Gill Barnes, was born at Judson, Parke county, Ind., May 30, 1830; departed this life August 13, 1926, at the ripe old age of 96 years, 2 months and 13 days.

There were three children of her father's family -- Dick, Russell and Rachel, the mother dying, when Rachel was three days old. One year later her father again married, and to this union five children were born -- Thomas, Leonard, Margaret, now Mrs. Margaret Holman, Mary Hartman and Harriet Adams.

"Aunt Rachel", as she was lovingly known was first united in marriage to James Evans. Two children were born of this union, Sarah and Eddie, the latter dying in infancy. While yet young, Mr. Evans was called to the great beyond, leaving her with the care of one daughter. Six years later, on Aug. 6, 1854, she became the wife of James H. Montgomery who preceded her in death 18 years. Seven children blessed this union, all of whom are left to mourn, three sons, John Montgomery, of Montezuma; Smith of Bellmore, and Mason, of Terre Haute; and four daughters, Mrs. Naomi Gates and Mrs. Minnie Stone of Rosedale; Mrs. Margaret Pendergast of Terre Haute, and Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Hawkins of Bridgeton. She also leaves in bereavement 22 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; a half brother, Thomas Barnes of Washington, Iowa; a half-sister, Mrs. Margaret Holman of Rosedale and a host of friends.

For over 30 years the deceased had suffered physical ailment. Eight years ago, in a fall from her chair, she broke a hip and was never able to walk afterward. Her pain and suffering were intense but she bore all the patience and fortitude of a Christian. Loving hands and skilled physicians and surgeons did all possible for her healing, but in vain.

"Aunt Rachel" has only stopped living here in this world and has gone to live with Jesus. She was a friend to everyone and never in her long, well rounded life was she an enemy to anyone. She possessed a bright, sunny disposition, to know her was to love and respect her for her noble character and goodness of heart. Everyone, old or young, rich or poor, received from her the same kind consideration. Fond memories of her will ever be cherished. As a wife she was faithful in all marriage relationships. As a mother she looked upon her children as jewels, gifts from the Creator and she manifested the feeling of great responsibility of guiding and guarding their lives for future usefulness. As a neighbor she was always a courteous, kind-hearted, sympathetic friend, ever ready to help in any way especially to make peace which she so greatly loved. "Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall see "God".

In her childhood home she was brought up in the fear and admonition of the Lord and turned early in youth to her creator for strength and guidance. She became a member of the Baptist church at the age of 16 years and always lived a sincere and devoted Christian.

On realizing that the sands of her life were running low "Aunt Rachel" talked tranquilly and cheerfully of her going away, telling her children she regretted leaving them but that she was ready to answer her Master's call.

There is a vacant chair and there are sad and aching hearts, but there is abounding comfort in the though that heaven is richer by the presence of another soul. God has but called her home.

"Aunt Rachel" was laid in the Jessup cemetery on the hillside where the winds whisper until eternity and where she will sleep the long, sweet sleep.''

To the bereaved children I will say that your labor of duty and love is over. You are now following her lifeless remains to the city of the dead and will soon see her earthly body laid to rest in the ground over which will be raised a little green mound. Her work on earth is done -- she has gone to her reward.

The mortal remains, followed by a large cortege of sorrowing kindred and sympathizing friends, were taken to Liberty Baptist church near Jessup, Sunday afternoon, where the Rev. R. L. Fuson of Brownsburg, preached an impressive funeral discourse. Several appropriate hymns were sung by a choir composed of Mrs. Wesley Barnes, Mrs. George Armstrong, Mrs. Leslie Cox, Mrs. William Biggins, Mrs. Frank Miller and Ed Cox, with Mrs. Elbridge Hartman pianist. An obituary of the deceased was read and at conclusion of the services she was laid to rest by the side of her husband in Friendly Grove cemetery. There were many beautiful floral tributes and these were carried by great grandchildren. Bearers of the pall were Mon and Ezra Hawkins, Tony Pendergast, Homer and Herman Stone and Ray and Harry Montgomery, all grandsons of the deceased.