This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: TrischHall Surnames: Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/surnames.downing/1152.2/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Cass City Chronicle, 21 Jan 1916, page 1 RHODA ANN DOWNING'S LIFE MADE STRENUOUS BY WAR AND FIRE. Mrs. Rhoda Ann Downing, a resident of Tuscola county since 1871, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Asa Root, in Novesta township on Wednesday, Jan. 19, after a week's illness. She was 87 years of age. Rhoda Ann Bennett was born in New York state on Oct. 1, 1828. She was the eldest in a family of eight and only one, T. C. Bennett, a brother, survives her. At the age of 20 years, she united with the Baptist church and continued her membership in that society until her death. In 1852, she was united in marriage with Hardin C. Downing. Their married life continued for a half century, Mr. Downing passing away 14 years ago on their golden wedding anniversary. They moved from New York to Ohio in 1856 and came to Cass City in 1871. They continued their residence in this vicinity except for a period of three years which they spent in Texas. They returned here from that state in 1881 just in time to lose practically all their property in the fire of 1881. Mrs. Downing's life was a strenuous one. Her husband served in the Civil War for three years leaving her with the care and home-making for four little children and her husband's mother. In this she was successful in keeping them comfortable and together. Mrs. Downing was the mother of 13 children, five of whom survive. They are Willis Downing of Detroit, Mrs. Rosa Sweeny of Grayling, Mrs. Frances Hendrick and Mrs. Betsy Hendrick, both of Ellington, and Mrs. Olive L. Root of Novesta. Thirty-seven grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren mourn her death. Funeral services will be held at the Baptist church at Cass City on Saturday at two o'clock and the interment will be made in Elkland cemetery. Brief services will be held at the home of Asa Root in Novesta township at one o'clock. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board. <br>