Bell, Thomas

NASSAGAWEYA.
On Wednesday night, 8th November, one of the oldest residents of Nassagaweya departed this life -- Mr.Thomas Bell, of lot 19, Con. 6. He had been ailing for years, and a fall in the summer hastened the end. He was confined to his bed till death ended his sufferings. Deceased emigrated with his parents from Antrim, Ireland, in 1819, when about two years of age, and the family settled near Fort Erin, removing three or four years later to the homestead in Nassagaweya and undertaking the hard labor of the pioneers. A sawmill was erected on the farm by Rufus Adams of Acton about seventy years ago, and was managed by the deceased's father and himself.
In the forties Mr. Bell was united in marriage to Rachel Morton, a native of Ireland near Belfast, who predeceased him seven years ago. Four sons and five daughters were born to them, six of whom survive; Mr. Wm. Bell, Mrs. John Kennedy, Mr. John Bell and Mrs. James Cargill, Nassagaweya; and Mr. Alex. Bell and Mrs. Robt. Holmes, Acton. Mr. Bell was an honored resident of the township. All who knew him esteemed him for his sterling character. Of Mr. Bell's own family only one brother outlives him.
The funeral was held on Friday, a service being conducted at the house, and interment was made at Nassagaweya Presbyterian Church cemetery.