Mrs. E. F. Runner, an Old and Respected Lady Citizen, Passes Away -- The Funeral, Wednesday
The end of suffering came at last, for at 1 o'clock on Monday morning the spirit of Mrs. E. F. Runner was freed from the body, and it was whispered around among those is the chamber "She is dead." Conscious almost the last she went to sleep, with no regrets, for she was sure a welcome awaited her in the world above.
The death of Mrs. Runner will cause sorrow in many a home, for during her residence in this city her life has been one of love and kindness for the poor, the suffering and the weak. She lived to do good, and she never tired in her labors for humankind. A devoted and consistent member of the First Methodist church, an earnest and faithful worker in the cause of temperance, and a mother who was revered by her son and daughters, she goes to the better world, amid the regrets and lamentations of all who knew her.
Biographical
The deceased was a native of Clinton Co., Pa., where she was born, Oct. 21, 1815. In 1841 she was married to F. S. Runner, who died in 1853. In 1857 she was again married, J. W. Runner, who survives her, being her choice. She was the mother of eight children, four sons and four daughters, a daughter and three sons having preceded her. Three daughters, Mrs. E. J. Wright, of this city, Mrs. G. C. Bailey, of Lanark, and Mrs. C. F. Emerson, Jr., and one son, Z. T. F. Runner, of this city, remain.
The deceased came to Stephenson County 29 years ago, residing in Freeport and vicinity ever since. Both Mr. and Mrs. Runner resided at the residence of their son for several years, but as that gentleman has been building they have been at Mrs. Wrights, No. 43 Ordway street, for some time. Here Mrs. Runner was taken ill two weeks ago last Friday night. Everything possible that could be done for her comfort was done. She was one of those persons whom everyone respected, and the W. C. T. H., of which whe was superintendent of the flower mission, the cause of religion and the sick and destitute have lost one who was truly a "Good Samaritan."
The funeral will take place Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock. Services will be conducted at 43 Ordway street.
Daily Journal, The (Freeport, IL) 11 Oct 1886