William A. Standish was born at Apoynay, Rhode Island, April 10th, 1820 and died at his home near Weldon, Iowa, March 29, 1906.
He was a lineal descendant of the noted Miles Standish, who came to America in the Mayflower. He removed to Delaware County, Ohio, when he was seventeen years of age, where he resided until the fall of 1863, when he removed to Marshall County, Illinois, living there until the spring of 1868 when he came to Iowa which has ever since been his home.
He married February 29, 1842 to Catherine A. Billingsley, who died August 9, 1902. For over sixty years they traveled life's journey together, both sharing their joys and sorrows in loving companionship. To them were born ten children, six of whom are now living. At about the age of nineteen he united with the old Christian Church later known as the New Light Church. His was a consistent, practical Christian life, and he was ever ready to answer the call of the Master to come up higher. He was a kind and loving father and will always be held in loving rememberance by his children and also the grandchildren for whom he had the greatest affection. During the last of his life he has been faithfully cared for by his granddaughter, Ella Standish, who has always made her home with her grandparents. Well and faithfully has she repaid him for his care of her by devoting herself untiringly to making his last days as comfortable as possible. Thus has closed a long and useful life, and a good man has gone to rest.
The funeral service was held at the residence Saturday, March 31st, at (can't read) p.m., conducted by Elder C.H. (can't read), assisted by Reverend G.E. Mitchell, after which he was laid to rest in the Green Bay Cemetery.
Posted in Decatur County Journal-Iowa April 12, 1906
