This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Blake, Ripley Classification: Obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/an/kg.2ADI/1558 Message Board Post: Barry Adage, Barry, Pike Co. IL, Thursday, October 10, 1901: "Preston B. Blake was born the 17th day of January, in the year 1840, in Erie, Penn., and departed this life Thursday evening, October 3, 1901, at his home near Barry, Ill., aged 61 years, 8 months and 16 days. In early manhood he volunteered his services in defence of the Union, enlisting in Company F., 137th regiment volunteer infantry. In 1872 he was married to Miss Sarah Ripley, of Meredosia, Ill., and to this union three sons were born, two of whom survive; also the wife, mother, three brothers and a host of relatives. On various occasions he gave evidence of his belief in God and trusted Him as the righteous judge. In all his dealings with his fellowmen he was honest and upright; as a soldier he was proud of his record of service; as a citizen he was loyal to his country and the flag he loved. Funeral services were conducted at his late residence Saturday afternoon, October 5, by F.M. Rogers, pastor of the Christian church, and the last rites were performed at the grave by the G.A.R. Post."