Shelby County Indiana Genealogy, Obituaries

Shelby County Indiana
Obituaries

Spurlin / Spurling

The Shelbyville News
March 2, 2004
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Edith Spurling, 92, of Shelbyville, died Monday, March 1, 2004.
Born Dec. 6, 1911, in Marion County, Kentucky, d/o William and Lucy (Gribbons) Bright.
Married George Spurling on Oct. 26, 1927, and he preceded her in death on Jan. 25, 1988.
Survivors include two sons, John Spurling of Edinburgh and George Spurling of Shelbyville; two daughters, Geneva Potter and Genevieve Kelly, both of Shelbyville; 13 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.
Preceded in death by one son, James H. Spurling, one grandson, five brothers and four sisters.
Lived in Shelbyville for 64 years. Previously lived in Marion County, Ky.
Homemaker.
Employed with Cinch Manufacturing Co. for 35 years, retiring in 1978.
Glenn E. George & Son Funeral Home, 437 Amos Road. Rev. Tom True officiating.
Burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery.
Summarized by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville News
Monday, January 26, 2004
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James H. Spurling, 68, of Manilla, died Friday, Jan. 23, 2004.
Born Nov. 18, 1935, in Spurlington County, Kentucky., s/o George and Edith (Bright) Spurling.
Survivors include his mother of Shelbyville; three daughters, Mary Hardin of Indianapolis, Shirley Brown and Ruth Spurling, both of Manilla; two brothers, John William Spurling and Junior Spurling, both of Shelby County; two sisters, Geneva Potter and Genevive Kelly, both of Shelbyville; and three granddaughters.
Preceded in death by his father.
Lifelong Manilla resident.
Employed at Manilla Grain Co., in Manilla, for 30 years, retiring in 1992.
Glen E. George Funeral Home, 106 E. Franklin St. in St. Paul.
Rev. Tom True officiating.
Burial will be in Van Pelt Cemetery, in Shelby County.
Summarized by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville News
Friday, August 25, 2000
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Ruth Spurling, 83, Waldron, died today, Waldron.
Born Feb. 2, 1917, in Switzerland County, d/o Charles E. and Florence M. (Holdcraft) Davis. Married Julian Spurling on Nov. 2, 1935, and he preceded her in death on June 21, 1986.
Homemaker. She was a member of Waldron Baptist Church, Waldron; taught Sunday school for 40 years.
Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Jim (Helen) Ash, Shelbyville, and Mary Lamb, Waldron; one brother, Howard Davis, Moores Hill; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.
Preceded in death by four brothers and seven sisters.
Waldron Baptist Church, with the Rev. Steve Holland officiating.
Burial Star Cemetery, Decatur County.
Glenn E. George Funeral Home, St. Paul.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Diabetes Association.
Summarized by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville News
Monday, June 19, 2000
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Delva M. “Del” Spurlin, 61, lifetime Shelbyville resident, died Friday.
Born Sept. 12, 1939, in Shelbyville, s/o Delva M. and Ruth (Worden) Spurlin.
Married Patsy (Tucker) Spurlin on June 3, 1961.
Graduated from barber college in Cleveland, Ohio, and owned and operated Del Spurlin Barber Shop, Shelbyville, for 40 years.
Member of First Baptist Church, Eagles Lodge 766, Moose Lodge, American Legion Post 70, all of Shelbyville.
Survivors: wife; 2 sons, Tony Spurlin, Greensburg, and Dean Spurlin, Shelbyville; 2 sisters, Brenda Cooney, Shelbyville, and Judy Strickland, Cleveland, Ohio; 2 brothers, Carl Claridge, Marietta, and Arthur Claridge, Shelbyville; 5 grandchildren.
Glenn E. George & Son Funeral Home, Shelbyville, with the Rev. Harry Mattingly officiating.
Burial: Miller Cemetery, Shelby County.
Contributions: Hospice of Shelby County.
Summarized by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville News
Tuesday, February 27, 1979
Spurling
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Mrs. Irene M. Spurling, 71, R.R. 1, Flat Rock, died at her home at 9:35 p.m. Monday. Services will be announced by the Carmony Funeral Home.
Summarized by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville News
Tuesday, May 31, 1977
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SPURLING
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Nathan M. Spurling, infant son of Michael R. and Gayle (Compton) Spurling, R.R. 3, Batesville, died hours after birth Monday morning. The infant, who was born Sunday at St. Mary Margaret Hospital, Batesville, had been transferred to Good Samaritan Hospital, Cincinnati.
Surviving besides the parents are a sister, Michelle Spurling, at home; and grandparents, Robert Spurling, Shelbyville, Mrs. Betty Davis, Batesville, and Mr. and Mrs. Allen Compton, R.R. 1, Flat Rock.
Graveside rites will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the aptterson Cemetery, near Lewis Creek, with the Rev. David Carnine officiating. The Norman Funeral Home, Hope, is in charge of the arrangements and no calling hours will be observed.
Contributed by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville News
Wednesday, September 22, 1976
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Mrs. Ethel Spurlin, 83, died Tuesday, September 21, 1976, Beech Grove.
Moved from Shelbyville to Indianapolis; to Turtle Creek Nursing Home in October, 1973.
Born July 4, 1893, Osgood, d/o John and Elizabeth Catherine Pickett Degolyier.
Married Clarence Spurlin on September 10, 1912, Versailles. He died in 1954.
Attended Salvation Army.
Surviving: children Mrs. Jack (Catherine) Price, Shelbyville, Mrs. James (Averlial) Collins, Mrs. Raymond (Gertrude) Medsker and Donald G. Williams, all of Indianapolis, John William Spurlin, Huntington Beach, California and Rupert (Jim) Spurlin, Grant's Pass, Oregon; sixteen grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and six step-great-grandchildren.
Rev. Lavern Wing officiating.
Burial: Forest Hill Cemetery.
Summarized by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville News
Tuesday, September 21, 1976
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Mrs. Ethel Spurlin, 83, died Tuesday, September 21, 1976, Beech Grove.
Former Shelbyville resident.
Murphy Mortuary.
Summarized by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Central Kentucky News-Journal
July 30, 1968
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Jesse Hershel Spurling, 67 years of age, died at his home in Shelbyville, Indiana, July 23 after a long illness. He was formerly of Taylor County but had lived in Indiana 20 some years. He is survived by his wife, Mamie Gribbins Spurling, and six children of Indiana; one sister, Mrs. Floy Bottoms of Mannsville and several cousins and other relatives in this county.
Contributed by John Addison Ballard

The Shelbyville News
Tuesday, July 23, 1968
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MR. SPURLING, 66, DIES HERE
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Rites Thursday for Shelbyville Carpenter
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Jesse H. Spurling, 68, Ash Lane, died Monday at Major Hospital.
Born Mannsville, Ky., May 4, 1902, s/o William L. and Siddie Thomas Spurling.
Married Mayme E. Gribbins on October 8, 1922; she survives.
Also surviving: children, Mrs. Charles (Geneva) Kaster, J. C. Spurling, Mrs. Ned (Jeanetta) Fitx and Donald D. Spurling, all of Shelbyville, Henry L. Spurling of Waldron, William H. Spurling of Columbia S.C., Mrs. William (Ina Fern) Fisher, Weisbaden, Germany, and Mrs. Amy (Gloria) Halber of Lakeland, Florida; 19 grandchildren; sister, Mrs. Floy Bottoms, Mannsville, Ky.
Carpenter.
Lived in Shelbyville for 25 years.
Member of the Shelbyville Baptist Temple and Woodmen of the World lodge.
Services: Murphy Mortuary with Rev. Harold Garoutte officiating.
Burial: Forest Hill Cemetery.
Summarized by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville News
Saturday, January 20, 1968
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GUN ACCIDENT
FATAL TO BOY
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Rites To Be Monday
For Ricky Spurling
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Funeral services will be conducted here Monday at 11:00 a.m. in the Murphy Mortuary for Ricky J. Spurling, 14, of 26 Ash Lane, who died Friday about 8:00 p.m. of a gunshot wound which police said apparently was accidentally fired by a companion. Death occurred in Community Hospital at Indianapolis following surgery in an attempt to save his life. Burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery. Friends may call at the mortuary after 4:00 p.m. Sunday.
Police authorities said the Spurling boy, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Spurling, was shot in the temple with a .22 caliber bullet from a six-shot single-action revolver held by Allen Dale Johnson, 15, of 1237 Elm St. Police Chief Robert Nolley said officers and the emergency ambulance were called at 10:27 a.m. Friday to the home of Mr. and Mrs. David William Snyder, 722 Berkeley Drive, where the shooting occurred. The wounded youth was first rushed to Major Hospital and then to Community Hospital.
Police said according to a statement by the Johnson boy, he and the Spurling youth were at the Johnson home when they decided to visit Debbie Snyder. Chief Nolley said the three youngsters were the "best of friends" and had gone into the living room of the Snyder home to put away a pool table. Nolley said that, according to Johnson, Spurling took a toy gun from a rack on the wall and Johnson took the revolver from Snyder's gun rack against another wall. Police said Johnson told them he asked the Snyder girl if the gun was loaded and she replied that she did not know. The Johnson youth, according to police, said he then pointed the revolver at Spurling, waved it and said, "Ain't that scary?" At that time, the gun accidentally discharged with the bullet striking Spurling in the temple, the police report said. All three youngsters were out of school because of a semester-end holiday.
The Spurling boy was born in Shelbyville Sept. 4, 1953 and was an eighth grade pupil in the Junior High School. Surviving besides the parents, are four brothers, Timothy, Jay, Alan, Aaron D. and Benjamin K. Spurling, all at home, and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Spurling and Mrs. Gladys Hewitt, all of Shelbyville.
Contributed by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville Republican
March 6, 1954
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Clarence Spurlin Dies at Hospital
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Clarence Spurlin, 70, died today at Major Hospital.
Lived at Yarling Trailer Court.
Born September 5, 1883, Marietta, s/o Elihew and Nancy Woods Spurlin.
Married September 10, 1912, Ethel Begalyier.
Survivors: wife; 2 sons, John and Rupert Spurlin, both of California; 3 daughters, Mrs. Gertrude Glasser of Indianapolis, Mrs. Catherine Stanley of Valparaiso, Mrs. Averial Wertz of Shelbyville; 3 sisters, Mrs. Algeria Almont of Seattle, Washington, Mrs. Emma Lee Church of Reno, Nevada, and Mrs. Amanda Pope of Shelbyville; 10 grandchildren.
Three brothers and a sister preceded.
Lifelong resident of Shelby county.
Former member of Redmen Lodge.
Murphy Mortuary with Rev. Aonzo Hamilton officiating.
Burial: Miller Cemetery.
Summarized by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville News
Monday, April 24, 1950
Page 1
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HEART AILMENT CAUSES DEATH
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Ora Enos Spurlin Succumbs At Home;
Funeral Tuesday
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Ill or the past 10 years, with a heart ailment and in a critical condition for four weeks, Ora Enos Spurlin retired farmer, died at his home 10 miles southwest of this city in Washington township Sunday at 9:45 a.m. He was 76 years of age.
Mr. Spurlin, who resided in this city for 20 years, and formerly was employed with the local street department, was born in Lewis Creek on Feb. 8, 1874. He was the son of Franklin and Amanda (Sullivan) Spurlin.
On December 26, 1892, he was married to Maude Spurlin, who survives with two of three children born to the union. The children are Raymond Spurlin of this city and Mrs. Alma Young of Marion township. Also surviving are three grandchildren, six great-granchildren and one sister, Mrs. John McCalip, of Shelbyville.
Funeral rites will be held at the Murphy Mortuary Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. Rev. E. V. Wilson will officiate. Interment will be in the Flat Rock cemetery. Friends may call at the mortuary.
Contributed by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville Democrat
Thursday, August 25, 1949
[weekly paper]
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MRS. SPURLIN DIES IN HOSPITAL
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From the daily of Monday, August 22:
Funeral services for Mrs. Bertha Spurlin, 53, widow of Dalton A. (Sprout) Spurlin, will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock at the Murphy Mortuary. Burial will be in Forest Hill cemetery. Friends may call at the mortuary after 6:00 p.m. tonight. Dr. Walter R. Hand will officiate at the last rites. Mrs. Spurlin, whose home was at 124 1/2 E. Broadway, died at the W. S. Major Hospital Sunday morning at 6:45 after suffering for the past 10 days with an abdominal ailment. She had been employed as an operator with the local Bell Telephone Company for the past five years. The daughter of Joshua and Ora Alice (Cherry) Clark, she was born in this city on April 18, 1896. She and Mr. Spurlin operated the Shelbyville Credit Bureau for several years before his death on October 19, 1940. Mrs. Spurlin was the last of her immediate family and the only survivors are several cousins.
Contributed by Nancy Vance Glover

The Shelbyville Republican
Thursday November 22, 1945
Page 1 column 6
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EVERETT SPURLIN
DIES AT HOME
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Former County Man
Succumbs in New Salem
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Everett Spurlin, age fifty-two, former resident of Shelby county, died at his home in New Salem Tuesday evening at 6:15 o’clock. He had been ill for the past year with a complication of diseases and his condition had been serious for the last four months.
Mr. Spurlin was born in Shelby county June 27, 1892, the son of John and Sarah Miller Spurlin. He moved to New Salem in 1935 and operated a filling station there.
He is survived by the widow, the former Miss Dorothy Wilbur; one daughter and two sons, Sharon Kathleen Spurlin and Eugene and Donnie Wayne Spurlin, at home; one brother and one sister, Chester Spurlin and Mrs. Ollie Maple, of this city, and two aunts and one uncle, Mrs. John McCalip, Mrs. Sina Jackson and Ora Spurlin, also of this city.
Funeral services will be held Friday at 1:30 p.m.. at the late home with Rev. William Knox, pastor of the local Wesleyan Methodist church, and Rev. Gordon Smith, of New Salem, officiating. Burial will be made in Forest Hill Cemetery.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Saturday June 24, 1944
Page 1 column 2
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MRS. RALPH P. SPURLIN DIES AT RESIDENCE
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Victim of Kidney Ailment; Ill Many Months
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Mrs. Leora M. Spurlin, age 43, wife of Ralph P. Spurlin, died Thursday at 9:50 p.m. at her home at 126 west South street. Mrs. Spurlin had been ill with a kidney ailment for several months and had recently undergone major surgery.
She was born in Rushville on August 1, 1900, the daughter of John S. and Ida A. Wilson. She attended the Shelbyville High school and the Terhune Business College. Her marriage to Mr. Spurlin took place on October 15, 1921. He survives with two children, Miss Joan Spurlin, a student nurse at the Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, and Miss Phyllis Spurlin, at home. A sister, Mrs. C. G. Schalk, of Logansport, and a brother, Clarence Wilson, of Hollywood, California, also survive.
Funeral services will be held at the Loren H. Murphy funeral home Monday at 2:00 p.m. with Rev, A. J. Spaulding officiating. Burial will be in Forest Hill cemetery. Friends may call at the late residence at 126 west South street after noon Saturday and at the funeral home from 12:30 Monday until the hour of the funeral.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Tuesday February 29, 1944
Page 1 column 7
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FUNERAL SERVICE FOR
COUNTY NATIVE TODAY
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Final Tribute to Be Paid Charles Sandefur
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Charles M. Sandefur, 75-year-old Shelby county native, died Sunday at 12:55 p.m. in his home, 608 south Miller Street, following an extended illness.
Funeral services will be conducted today at 2:00 p.m. at the West Street Methodist Church, with the Rev. A. J. Spaulding, pastor, officiating. Burial in Forest Hill cemetery will be in charge of Edwards & Kohlmeyer. Friends may call at the late home at any time.
Mr. Sandefur was born in Marietta on July 11, 1869, the son of Wesley and Martha (Davis) Sandefur, and was one of 13 children.
On March 15, 1900, he was married to Loreta Evans, and to this union a daughter, who died in infancy was born. Surviving are the widow and a brother, Sylvester Sandefur, of Shelbyville.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Monday, October 21, 1940
[daily paper]
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[a picture accompanies the article]
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SERVICES FOR A. D. SPURLIN
TO BE TUESDAY
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Final rites for A. Dalton Spurlin, 48 years old, secretary of the local Chamber of Commerce and head of the Shelbyville Credit Bureau, who died at 8:00 Saturday morning in his home at 115 east Broadway, will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday in the Loren H. Murphy funeral home. The Rev. Walter P. Halbert will officiate. Burial will be in Forest Hill cemetery. Mr. Spurlin had been ill for the last two years. Mr. Spurlin had been unable to continue his work at the two business organizations' headquarters here for many months, but had been retained in both the posts. Although his condition had been of a more or less serious nature throughout his illness, it did not become critical until Friday. Mr. Spurlin was a lifelong resident of the county. The son of Marion W. and Mary E. Spurlin, he was born November 24, 1891. He attended the public schools and Shelbyville high school and on July 6, 1918, he was married to Bertha Clark, of this city. The widow survives with two brothers, Ralph P. Spurlin, of Shelbyville, and Arvel, of Brownstown, and several uncles and aunts. His parents preceded him in death. Pallbearers for the funeral services will be Horace Yarber, Verne Keigh, Clyde Moore, Earl Neu, Robert Money and Elmer Cord. Members of the Masonic lodge, of which Mr. Spurlin was a member, will conduct graveside services at the cemetery. Friends may call at the Murphy funeral home at any time.
Contributed by Nancy Vance Glover

The Shelbyville Republican
Monday April 18, 1938
Page 1 column 7
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FUNERAL TO BE HELD TUESDAY
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William Sandefur, 70, Dies Here
after Illness of Two Years
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William S. Sandefur, age 70, lifelong resident of this city, died at his home, 821 Meridian street, at 10:20 p.m. Saturday, following an illness of two years.
Mr. Sandefur had been engaged in the carpenter business here for the past several years. He was the son of Wesley and Martha Davis Sandefur.
On October 28, 1866, he was united in marriage to Laura Bell Tucker, and to this union seven children were born, six of whom survive. Mrs. Ethel Atwood, of this city; Mrs. John R. Smith, of Shelby county; Hubert Sandefur, Carl and Earl Sandefur, of this city, and Arthur Sandefur, of Shelby county.
Survivors include four brothers, Harvey, Ves, Charles and Otis, all of this city, sixteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
The deceased was a member of Wesleyan Methodist church. Funeral services will be held at the church at 2 p.m. Tuesday, with the Rev. George Cole, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the Second Mt. Pleasant cemetery in charge of Charles M. Ewing, funeral director. Friends may call at the late home after 4 p.m. Monday.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Wednesday March 21, 1934
Page 1 column 4
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DEATH FOLLOWS LONG SICKNESS
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Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Spurlin, 64, Died Yesterday
At Home 610 S. Tompkins Street
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DECEASED LEAVES 3 SONS
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Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Spurlin, 64 years old, died at 4:30 yesterday afternoon in her home, 610 South Tompkins street, after being in failing health for the past fifteen months. Mrs. Spurlin had been bedfast since November 9. She had been a resident of Shelbyville for twenty-five years.
The deceased was born January 15, 1870, and was the daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Cochran Hawkins. On October 20, 1890, she was united in marriage with Marion W. Spurlin, who preceded her in death in 1911. To this union was born three sons, Dalton, Ralph and Arvel Spurlin, all of Shelbyville.
Besides the three sons, Mrs. Spurlin leaves two grandchildren, Joan and Phyllis Spurlin; three brothers, Sanford Hawkins, of Jackson township; Ed Hawkins, of Lewis Creek; J. A. Hawkins, of Columbus, Ohio, and one foster sister, Mrs. Howard Zimmerman, of Richmond, Indiana.
Mrs. Spurlin was a lifelong member of the Wesleyan Methodist church, and until illness prevented, taught a children’s Sunday school class.
The body has been moved to the Charles M. Ewing funeral home on North Harrison street, where friends may call at any time until 12:00 noon, Friday. Funeral services will be conducted at the Wesleyan Methodist church Friday at 2:00 p.m., with the Rev. C. G. Payne, assisted by the Rev. E.A. Crim, officiating. Burial will be in Forest Hill cemetery, in charge of Charles M. Ewing.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Tuesday March 19, 1929
Page 1 column 6
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DEATH OCCURS MONDAY NOON
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George Washington Spurlin Died
After Long Illness At His Home Monday
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BURIAL SERVICE WEDNESDAY
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Funeral services for George Washington Spurlin who died Monday noon at his home in Washington township, will be conducted at the mausoleum north of the city at two o’clock Wednesday afternoon. Short services will be held at the home at one o’clock. Rev. Bennett, pastor of the Flat Rock M.E. church, will officiate, at both services. Interment will be in the mausoleum in charge of Charles M. Ewing, funeral director.
Mr. Spurlin’s death came following a long illness of a complication of diseases. He was born January 1, 1847 near Lewis Creek in Washington township being at the time of death eighty-two years old. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Spurlin. On December 29, 1866 he was married to Miss Eliza Hupp. To this union six children were born, three of whom survive. Mr. Spurlin was a member of the Flat Rock Methodist church.
Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Eliza Spurlin; two sons, Ivory Spurlin of Hancock county, Marvin of Indianapolis, and one daughter, Mrs. Maude Spurlin; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Tuesday November 23, 1926
Page 1 column 1
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DEATH OCCURS MONDAY NIGHT
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Mrs. Sarah Spurlin Dies At Hospital
After Operation For Gall Stones
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FUNERAL TO BE WEDNESDAY
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Mrs. Sarah A. Spurlin, age 60, of 841 Meridian street, died at ten o’clock Monday night at the Major Memorial Hospital where she was operated on two weeks ago for gall stones. She was the daughter of the late John and Sarah Miller and was born in Washington township, Shelby county November 3, 1866.
The deceased was the wife of John Martin Spurlin, who died May 23, 1916. Of the four children born to the union, one died in infancy and three survive. They are Mrs. Fred [Ollie A.] Maple and Everett and Chester Spurlin of this city. She is also survived by three brothers, Anderson, Jesse and Martin Miller, all of this city; and two sisters, Mrs. Mary Stephens of near Lewis Creek, and Mrs. Vina Carter, of Florida.
Funeral services will be held at two o’clock Wednesday afternoon at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Fred Maple, 1047 Meridian street in charge of the Rev. Jacob Hester, of Arlington and the Rev. C.G. Payne. Burial will be in the Forest Hill cemetery in charge of Ralph Edwards, funeral director.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Tuesday August 8, 1922
Page 1 column 3
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AGED LADY DIED MONDAY NIGHT
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Mrs. Amelia J. Spurlin Passed Away
At Her Home After Lingering Illness
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FUNERAL SERVICE THURSDAY
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Mrs. Armilda J. Spurlin, age 84 years, widow of Joshua Franklin Spurlin, died Monday night at 11:20 o’clock, at her home, 325 Colescott street. She had been in ill health for a year and for four weeks had been confined to her bed suffering from a complication of diseases.
Mrs. Spurlin was born [March 5, 1838] in Kentucky, but had lived in Shelby county since she was two years old. Mrs. Spurlin was a charter member of the Wesleyan Methodist church at Lewis Creek. Her husband died six years ago.
She leaves three daughters, Mrs. Flora Fately, Mrs. Herschel [Sina M.] Jackson and Mrs. John [Amanda J.] McCalip, of Shelbyville, and one son Ora Spurlin, of Lewis Creek. Fourteen grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren also survive.
Funeral services will be held at the home Thursday afternoon at two o’clock, the Rev. Jacob Hester, of Carthage, officiating assisted by the Rev. Hunter, of Lewis Creek. Burial will be made in Forest Hill cemetery, C.F. Fix & Son in charge.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Tipton Tribune
Friday May 28, 1920
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BURIAL OF MRS. SPURLIN
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Rev. George D. Foster conducted the funeral services for Mrs. Wilford [Cerena Lamar] Spurlin at the Hemlock Baptist church Saturday morning at 10 o’clock and the burial took place in the Albright cemetery.
Mrs. Spurlin, age 84 years, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Lina Woodards in Greentown, where she made her home since the death of her husband. Rev. Spurlin and wife were residents of Tipton county for a number of years and were held in the highest esteem. The death of Rev. Spurlin occurred in Tipton one year and two months ago, having come to this city when he retired from the ministry. Mrs. Spurlin had lived a good life of noble Christian character, holding her church membership in the Separate Baptist of the Rock Prairie congregation.
Those from Tipton who attended the funeral were Mrs. Ory Summers and son Paul, Mrs. Dora Cage, Mrs. S. Howard and Mrs. Wilson Cottingham.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Friday March 28, 1919
Page 1 column 5
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OLD CITIZEN IS DEAD
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Resided In Shelby County 50 Years Ago;
Died At Home in Tipton
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WAS MARRIED HERE
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Mr. and Mrs. Rosa Spurlin of 209 east Hendricks street, have received word of the death of the Rev. Wilfred H. Spurlin at his home in Tipton. The Rev. Spurlin was a brother of Joshua Spurlin who lived on Colescott street and of Ithamar Spurlin who lived in east Broadway.
Deceased was born in Butler county, Ohio in 1833 but came to Shelby county when a child. In 1853 he was married to Cerena Lamar. This couple lived happily together for the long period of 65 years the passing on of her good husband leaving her to mourn his loss. They moved from Shelby county to Tipton county in 1872. He was ordained a Baptist minister in 1860. He continued in his work until physical disabilities forced him to retire. The Rev. Spurlin has many relatives now living in this county. His funeral will be held Saturday.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Tipton Tribune
Thursday March 20, 1919
Page 1
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PIONEER MINISTER DEAD
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Rev. W. H. Spurlin Expired at His Home in This City
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Rev. Wilford H. Spurlin died at his home, corner of Maple and Armstrong street, Wednesday evening about eight o’clock, of complications incident to old age.
Rev. and Mrs. Spurlin have been residents of Tipton county for over fifty years. He was born in Butler county, Ohio June 16, 1833 and was the son of Joshua and Hester (Layman) Spurlin. His parents moved to Indiana locating at Shelby county when he was only a few months old and he was reared and educated in that county.
November 17th, 1853 he was married to Miss Cerena Lamar and they went to housekeeping on a farm in Shelby county, which occupation he followed for many years.
In 1860 he was ordained a minister of the gospel in the Baptist church and had served in many different pastorates and had perhaps officiated at as many weddings, baptisms and funerals as any other minister in the state.
Since moving to Tipton county he had ceased from active labors and lived a quiet life, but still giving counsel, consolation and sympathy to those with whom he came in contact, and his home was one of good cheer and comfort, always open to friends and the needy ones. He had been through his earlier and middle life and was one of the most active citizens and prominent in the affairs of the county, and always wielding an influence for good.
He came to Tipton county in 1872 and located in Liberty township near the Howard county line, and for several years held active pastorates of churches in Tipton and Howard counties, besides preaching in many other districts. Deciding to retire from active life he bought residence property in Tipton and they have since resided here.
Surviving Rev. Spurlin is his faithful wife to whom he had been wedded more than sixty-five years and three children, who are Mrs. Lina Wooters, of Greentown, Mrs. Rosa Mills and J. F. Spurlin of Hemlock, eleven grandchildren, Dallie Wooters, Grover Wooters, Walter Wooters, Lora Mills, Mrs. Elsie Dillon, Mrs. Myrtle Tribble, Mrs. Hazel Underriner, Miss Cecil Mills, Wilford Spurlin, Kern Yager and Mrs. Emily Mason. There are also twenty-two great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild, two sisters Mrs. Esther Pherigo, Mrs. Amanda Sullivan, and one brother, Washington Spurlin.
Funeral services will be conducted at the late home Saturday morning at 10:00 o’clock, by Rev. Omer McCoy of Greentown. Burial will be at Union Chapel cemetery one mile west of Fairfield in Howard county.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Tuesday May 23, 1916
Page 1 column 2
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MARTIN SPURLIN DEAD
AFTER LONG ILLNESS
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Had Been Lifelong Resident of Shelby County
Funeral Services At Home On Thursday Morning
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Martin Spurlin, fifty-five years old, died at three twenty o’clock Tuesday morning at his home, No. 321 Meridian street. Death was caused by a complication of diseases and followed an illness covering the last three years. Mr. Spurlin had been confined to his bed for three weeks. He realized that death was near and had called the members of his family to his side, telling them that he was ready to answer the final call.
Mr. Spurlin was a son of the late Frank Spurlin, who died March 24, 1916. He was born in Washington township on November 4, 1860 and had lived all of his life in this county. For the last three years he had lived in Shelbyville with his family. He was a retired farmer. He was married to Miss Sarah Miller, a sister of Martin Miller and Anderson Miller, of this city on November 11, 1880.
He leaves his widow, his aged mother Mrs. Frank Spurlin; two sons, Chester and Everett, and one daughter, Mrs. Fred [Ollie A.] Maple, all of Shelbyville; one brother, Ora Spurlin, of Lewis Creek; three sisters, Mrs. Flora Fately; who makes her home with her mother; Mrs. Herschel Jackson and Mrs. John McCalip, both of this city.
The funeral services will be held at the late home Thursday morning at ten-thirty o’clock, the Rev. Payne, of Lewis Creek officiating, assisted by the Rev. S. J. Cross, pastor of the West Street M.E. church. Burial will be made in Forest Hill Cemetery.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Saturday March 25, 1916
Page 8 column 2
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CIVIL WAR VETERAN HAS HIS LAST CALL
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Joshua Franklin Spurlin Passed Away At Home
On Colescott Street At Midnight Friday
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BORN IN SHELBY COUNTY
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Joshua Franklin Spurlin, who for three years did valiant service for the North in the struggle against the South, died at his late home, 225 Colescott street, at eleven-thirty o’clock last night. He had been ill for the past eight weeks with catarrh of the stomach and his death had been expected for several days. He was aged seventy-five years, one month and fifteen days at the time of his death.
Mr. Spurlin was born in Washington township, this county, February 9, 1841, and had spent his entire life in this county. He was the son of Joshua and Esther (Lemmons) Spurlin, who were pioneer residents of this county. On September 22, 1850, he was married to Miss Armilda J. Sullivan, with whom he spent a happy and contented married life. They were the parents of seven children, two of whom are dead. The five surviving with the mother are – Martin Spurlin, of this city; Ora Spurlin, of Lewis Creek; Mrs. Flora Fately, of Washington township; Mrs. John McCalip and Mrs. Herschel Jackson, both of this city. Thirteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren also survive.
Deceased enlisted in the Civil War as a member of Company D., Thirty-third Indiana Volunteer Infantry, serving three years in the great conflict and doing his duty at all times in a heroic manner. He was a follower of the great Sherman in his famous march from "Atlanta to the sea." When the war ended he was honorably discharged and returned to his home here. He had lived in this city for the past fourteen years. He was a member of the Wesleyan Methodist church at Lewis Creek, which he joined many years ago.
The funeral services will be conducted at the home at ten-thirty o’clock Monday morning, the Rev. Jacob Hester, assisted by Rev. Charles Cain, of Lewis Creek officiating. Burial in Forest Hill Cemetery.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Tuesday July 20, 1915
Page 1 column 1
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PASSING AWAY ARE THE OLD VETERANS
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Ithamar Spurlin, One Of Shelby County’s Best Citizens,
Responds To The Last Long Roll Call
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SERVED TERM AS COUNTY SHERIFF
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Was Twice Trustee of Washington Township
and Five Years Trustee of Addison Township
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Taps have been sounded for Ithamar Spurlin. He died Tuesday morning at 3:10 o’clock at his home in this city, 225 East Broadway. The death of Mr. Spurlin was not expected, although he had been suffering with heart trouble and asthma for some time. He was about his regular occupation all Monday and sit on the front veranda at his home until eight o’clock. During the night he was taken ill and died at the hour named.
Mr. Spurlin was born in Washington township on December 2, 1839. From his youth he was an active, energetic person. Early he took an interest in all things about him. His first marriage was with Elizabeth Green on September 30, 1858. To this union three children survive - Mr. Charles Spurlin, of this city; George W. Spurlin, of Oklahoma; Mrs. Eunice Young, of Washington township. A son Millard Spurlin, was accidentally killed a few years ago. His second marriage was with Phebe Dunn, on October 25, 1869, who survives, no children having been born.
At the beginning of the Civil war Mr. Spurlin enlisted in the first call for troops and was assigned to Co. D, Thirty-third Indiana Volunteer Infantry. This was one of the Indiana regiments that experienced all the horrors of that war. It participated in the battles about Chattanooga, from that city to Atlanta and was in the memorable siege of that city. It went on the march with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea, swung back up through the Carolinas fighting until the surrender of Lee. Through it all Mr. Spurlin was a brave, gallant soldier. He was once captured and lay in Libby prison for three months when he was exchanged. His record, as well as his whole life, is one that his family is proud of today.
Returning to civil life Mr. Spurlin engaged in the grain business at Lewis creek. He served Washington township two terms as trustee. In the campaign of 1870 he was elected sheriff of the county, serving for two years. He was a true blue Republican, working night and day for the success of the party. At the close of his term as sheriff Mr. Spurlin returned to Lewis Creek where he again engaged in the grain business. Coming to Shelbyville about thirty years ago he was active in handling grain and stock. He served Addison township five years as trustee, making one of the best officials the township ever had. Of late years, in addition to the grain business, Mr. Spurlin was city weighmaster. He was a member of Dumont Post, G.A.R., under whose auspices the funeral will be held.
Mr. Spurlin’s immediate relatives are Wilford Spurlin, of Tipton; Frank Spurlin, of this city; Washington Spurlin, of Washington township; Mrs. Amanda Sullivan, of Lewis Creek, and Mrs. Esther Pherigo, of this city, brothers and sisters.
The death of Mr. Spurlin is a matter for deep regret to all his friends and wide circle of acquaintances. The time of the funeral has not been named.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Wednesday July 21, 1915
Page 1 column 4
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SPURLIN FUNERAL SERVICES
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The funeral services of the late Ithamar Spurlin, who died suddenly at his home in East Broadway early Tuesday, will be held at the late home Thursday afternoon at three o’clock, the Rev. W. E. Carroll, pastor of the Christian Church, officiating. Burial will be made in Forest Hill cemetery. Ralph J. Edwards in charge.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Republican
Monday, September 4, 1911
Page 4 column 3
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DEATHS AND FUNERALS
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Wilder Spurlin, a well known resident of this city, died very suddenly at his home, 43 West Locust street, at 11:45 o’clock Sunday night. He had been in poor health all summer, but seemed to feel as well as usual when he retired to his bed Sunday night. At 1 o’clock Mrs. Spurlin awoke, noticed that he had seemed to stop breathing and attempted to arouse him. She later called in physicians but they announced that the husband had been death for half an hour or more. Mr. Spurlin had been a resident of Shelbyville for many years and had long been an employee of the Shelbyville Mirror Works. He was thirty-nine years, ten months and eight days of age. The deceased is survived by his wife and three sons, Dalton, Ralph and Orville.
Also leaves his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Spurlin, of this city, two brothers, Martin and Ora Spurlin, of Lewis Creek, and four sisters, Mrs. Dora Mann, Mrs. Amanda McCalip, Mrs. Sina May Jackson, of this city, and Mrs. Flora Fately, of Flat Rock. He was a member of the Lewis Creek I.O.O.F. lodge. Funeral services will be held at the late residence Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock, Rev. C. A. Billheimer, of Lewis Creek, officiating. Interment in Forest Hill cemetery in charge of Stewart & Fix.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelby Democrat
Monday, September 4, 1911
Page 4 column 2
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WIFE AWOKE TO FIND
HER HUSBAND DYING
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Wilder Spurlin Passes Away
Unexpectedly From Valvular
Heart Trouble.
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DEAD WHEN DOCTORS ARRIVE
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Final Call Also Comes for B. F. McLean,
William Smiley and Dr. O. D. Fitch,
All Prominent and Highly
Respected Aged Men.
----------
(From Monday's Daily.)
Valvular heart trouble caused the death of Wilder Spurlin suddenly and unexpectedly at his home, 43 west Locust street, last night. He passed away at 11:45 o'clock just a few moments after his condition had been discovered by his wife, who was awakened by his death struggles as she slept by his side. Mr. Spurlin was gasping when she awoke and could not speak. She hastily aroused other members of the family and some of the neighbors and Drs. W. W. Tindal, B. G. Keeney and H. E. Phares were called. They reached the house within ten or fifteen minutes after Mrs. Spurlin had discovered the condition of her husband but he was dead when they arrived.
Mr. Spurlin was aged thirty-nine years, ten months and eight days. He had suffered to some extent duing the past few months from attacks of the heart, but neigher he nor any of the members of his family considered his condition serious, and his death was a great shock to his relatives and to his friends as well. He remained at his work till last Friday and then quit as there was nothing further for him to do in his usual line of work. Saturday and Sunday he was apparently in the best of health and made several trips uptown. Sunday evening just as he was retiring for the night he remarked to his wife that his heart felt peculiar, but as he made not further complaint Mrs. Spurlin paid no attention and both soon fell asleep. She was awakened about 11:30 o'clock, and she saw at a glance that her husband was dying.
Mr. Spurlin had been living in this city for several years, but his home was formerly near Lewis Creek, where he had followed farming. He was a member of the Odd Fellows lodge at Lewis Creek and his death is the second to occur among the membership of the lodge since its organization about two years ago.
Mr. Spurlin leaves his wife and three children, Dalton, Ralph and Orville. He is also survived by his aged parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Spurlin, of Colescott street, and by two brothers and four sisters -- Martin and Ora Spurlin, of Lewis Creek; Mrs. Dora Mann, Mrs. Amanda McCallip and Mrs. Sina Jackson, of this city, and Mrs. Flora Fately, of Flat Rock.
The funeral services will be held at the late home of the deceased at two o'clock Wednesday afternoon with Rev. C. A. Billheimer, of Lewis Creek, officiating, and the interment will be made in Forest Hill cemetery in charge of Stewart & Fix.
Contributed by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Shelbyville Republican
Monday October 10, 1910
Page 1 column 6
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DEATH OF MRS. S. J. SPURLIN
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Aged Resident of Washington Township
Expired This Morning
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Mrs. Sarah J. Spurlin died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Nathan Shaw, in Flat Rock, at 6 a.m. Monday, October 10, 1910, aged eighty years, two months and eleven days. She was born in the state of Ohio, coming to this county when only a child. Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. Henry Coffman who for many years resided in Jackson township. She was married to the late Henry Spurlin, who died a few years ago. Five sons and four daughters survive her. They are— George, Harvey, Charles, Bruce and Jesse, Mrs. Mary Shaw, Mrs. Christina Yanzer, Mrs. Jane Andrews and Mrs. Amanda Morris. There are also thirty-five grandchildren. The funeral services will be held at the old family residence in Jackson township at 10 o’clock a.m. Wednesday, October 12^th, the Rev. S. D. Hawkins in charge. The interment will be in the Patterson cemetery in charge of J. J. White, with Hageman & Hawkins.
Contributed by Barb Huff for Margie Bell

The Shelbyville Republican
Wednesday June 2, 1909
Page 1 column 5
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DYING MAN WAS READY TO GO
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Jacob Spurlin Died at His Home In Norristown This Morning
Of Dropsy After Long Illness
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DID NOT COME UNEXPECTEDLY
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Has Been Critically Ill For the Past Few Days
And Was Not Able to Speak Above a Whisper
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Jacob Spurlin died at his home in Norristown Wednesday morning about ten-thirty of dropsy. Mr. Spurlin had been critically ill for the past few days and he was not able to speak above a whisper any of the time. It was indeed a sad sight in the little home when the closing hour approached.
Lying on his death bed surrounded by the immediate family, but at the same time conscious of all that was going on around him, Mr. Spurlin's last words were, "I am ready to go." While he was not a member of any church, Mr. Spurlin was a highly respected citizen in the community in which he lived. Just before he passed away he inquired of one of the members of the family for the time of day, showing that he was fully aware of the things that concern earthly beings.
The deceased was born on a farm in Washington township May 15, 1858. He received his education in the public schools of the township and when he grew to manhood he was united in marriage to Miss Cora Anderson, who with four children survive him. They are Fred, Ray, Sylvia and Blanche. The deceased is also survived by the following brothers and sisters: Jesse, of Jackson township; Harvey, of California; Charles, of Jackson township; Mrs. Elizabeth Yanzer, of Norristown; Mrs. Mary Shaw, of Flat Rock, and Mrs. Pet Andrews, of St. Louis Crossing.
Contributed by Barb Huff for Margie Bell

A Shelbyville Newspaper
Thursday February 27, 1908
Page 4
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ELIHU SPURLIN DIED EARLY THIS MORNING
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Was One of the Oldest Men in the County-Leaves Six children
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(From Wednesday's Daily)
Elihu Spurlin died at the residence of his son, Albert Spurlin, in Jackson township, Wednesday morning at 6:30 o'clock, aged seventy-nine years, six months and seven days. The deceased had been sick about four weeks. He took pneumonia on last Wednesday, gradually growing worse until death. He leaves six children, three sons and three daughters, Omer J., Albert and Clarence, Mrs. Mandy Magee, Mrs. Emma E. Lee and Mrs. Algerta Furgeson. Funeral services will be held Thursday February 27, at 2 o'clock p.m. in the Methodist Protestant church at Marietta, of which he was a member, the Rev. Mr. Schwartzkopf officiating. Interment in the Miller cemetery. Stewart & Fix in charge.
Contributed by Barb Huff for Ellen Dalton

The Shelby Democrat
January 28, 1907
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Mrs. Mary Spurling, widow of the late Joshua Spurling, died at her home in Flat Rock at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, January 26, of paralysis, aged eighty-four years, nine months and twenty-five days. Funeral services were held in the Christian church at 10:30 this morning. Interment was made in the Mt. Auburn cemetery in charge of John White with Edwards & Hageman.
Contributed by Phyllis Miller Fleming

A Shelbyville Newspaper
Tuesday, December 16, 1902
---------
Henry Spurling died at his late residence in Jackson township at 6 p.m., Friday, December 12th, aged 76 years, 1 month and 29 days. He was born in Ohio and came with his parents to Shelby county when a boy. He has long resided on a farm that has been his home; where he raised his family of six sons and a daughter, who with his aged wife survive him. The funeral will be from the house at 10 a.m., Sunday, by Rev. S. D. Hawkins. Interment in the Patterson cemetery, in charge of John White.
Contributed by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Daily Evening Democrat
Saturday November 10, 1883
Page 4 column 2
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The remains of Mrs. Esther Spurlin, mother of Ithamer Spurlin, of this city, was buried yesterday.
Contributed by Barb Huff

The Shelbyville Volunteer
Thursday September 14, 1876
Page 3 column 2
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Joshua Spurlin, and old and respected citizen of Washington township, and father of ex-Sheriff, Ithamar Spurlin, died at his residence near Lewis Creek Switch on the J.M. & I. R.R. on Friday night after a brief but painful illness from fever, and his remains were buried on Sunday. By hard work and close economy Mr. Spurlin had amassed a good deal of this world’s goods and possessions, which he will leave to posterity.
Contributed by Phyllis Miller Fleming

The Repository
Greensburg, Indiana
December 27, 1846
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Page 1, column 1
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Mr. Elija Spurling, of Shelby County, was drowned in attempting to cross Flatrock with a team, on the 1st instant. He leaves a wife and five children.
Submitted by Barb Huff

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