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- from "The Fair Haven Era", 19 Dec 1912 (newspapers.com)
Mrs. Sarah P Shepard, wife of Fennimore H. Shepard, died at her home on Washington Street, Friday afternoon December 13th, at 1:45 o’clock. She had been in failing health for some months and in September went to the Albany hospital for treatment but the Physicians found her condition such that it was impossible to give any permanent help. Regaining strength somewhat, Mrs. Shepherd was brought home in October and since then gradually failed until the end came and she entered into eternal rest. Mrs. Shepherd was the youngest daughter of the late Dr. Joseph Perkins and Cynthia (Claghorn) Perkins and was born in Castleton, June 30, 1843. She was the last member of the family. Her father was one of the most eminent physicians of Vermont and for many years was president of the Castleton Medical College, which institution during his change was best known of any in the state. Mrs. Shepard was educated at the Castleton seminary and at Glenwood seminary in Brattleboro. November 9th, 1871, she was married to Fenimore H. Shepard and in the following year removed to Fair Haven, to the same home where she died. She is survived by her husband and five children, Iola S. wife of Edwin T. Hanford of Middletown, N.Y., Mary K. wife of Clayton W. Parker of this village, Gertrude E. wife of Eugene E. Ward of Amherst, Mass., Joseph P. and Charles H., who are associated in business with their father and also by seven grandchildren. Mrs. Shepherd had been for many years a consistent member of the First Congregational church. Gifted with a keen intellect, she took a deep interest in the literary movements of the day and yet was so devoted to her family and her home life that few outside of her immediate circle of intimate friends had opportunity to know of her and her wide sympathy with all that makes up the best in life. She took great delight in the interest of her children and their families and the picture in Proverbs of the home keeping wife may be aptly applied to her, “her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also and he praiseth her.” The funeral services were held at her late residence, Tuesday afternoon and were attended by a large circle of sorrowing friends. Her pastor, Rev. Robert H. Ball had charge of the services, assisted by Reverend E.C. Farwell of the Methodist church. During the service, Mrs. J.P. Shepherd and Arthur Baker, sang “Nearer My God to Thee.” The interment was in Cedar Grove cemetery. The pallbearers were Joseph Shepard, Charles Shepard, Clayton Parker, Eugene Ward, Edwin Hanford and Dr.. W.C. Greer. There was a profusion of floral offerings. Aside from those from the family and immediate friends there were beautiful pieces from the Business Men's association, Young Men's Bible class of the Methodist church, Congregational church and Sunday school the Monday club, Chautauqua club of Middletown N.Y.. and Doctor E.D. Keys and Co.of Rutland. The stores are all closed during the funeral as an expression of sympathy for Mr. Shepherd who is the oldest merchant in town.
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