McDonough ILGenWeb

from the Macomb Journal on February 15, 1894

Died of Paralysis
William P. Barrett, of This CIty, Succumbs to the Silent Destroyer.

Yesterday morning William P. Barrett arose from his bed in usual good health. He ate a hearty breakfast and was putting on his coat to come uptown to the treasurer's office when he fell over on the floor and had to be assisted to his bed. A physician was hastily called who at once saw the patient was suffering from a stroke of paralysis, his entire left side being already involved. He rapidly grew worse and at four o'clock was dead.

The date of funeral has not yet been decided upon, as the family is awaiting word from County Treasurer Oakman who is visiting in Pennsylvania. The interment will be in Oakwood.

William P. Barrett was born in England in the year 1820. He came to America in 1843; settled in Iowa where he lived a year, then came to McDonough County which has been his home since. June 4th, 1846, he was united in marriage with Margaret Roberts, a native of Wales. She survives him as does four children: William, who resides in Chalmers township; Edward, living in California; Mrs. Sarah Combs, of Lucas county, Iowa; and Hattie (Margaret), who is unmarried and lives at home.

Deceased was a man of more than ordinary attainments, especially in the line of mathematics. He filled many minor offices and was for several years deputy county clerk. Our community deeply sympathizes with the family in their great and sudden loss.

Contributed by Kay Barrett