Thomas Gibson Betts

Princeton Class of 1879: https://books.google.com/books?id=8mtIAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA590

Cedar Rapids Evening Gazette March 22, 1910

Among the many anxious and sorrowing homes in Cedar Rapids and elsewhere, occasioned by the awful railroad disaster at Gladbrook is that of T.G. Betts, whose family resides at 1507 E. Ave. Mr. Betts was among the fated customers who left here early Monday morning full of his usual cheer and hope, planning his route this week so as to get back for the meeting of the Men's club of the First Congregational church on Friday evening and was again at the home of the pastor at six o'clock accompanying him to the Endeavor meeting and evening services to talk over the program for Easter Sunday. The last thing he did before leaving his family at 11:30 Sunday night was to write an Easter invitation, copies of which were to be sent by his stenographer to the families represented in the church and Sunday School. The church in this city, of which he had been an honored and useful member, keenly feels his loss for he was lovingly and enthusiastically identified with all it's work. Being elected to the office of superintendent of the Sunday School in January, he has been giving an unusual amount of time and energy to this department of Christian work, with marked results in the growth and interest of the school. He walked home from the Sunday morning worship with the pastor to discuss Bible school with almost every member of the congregation, regarding this new trust as a sacred work to be discharged with the highest wisdom and faithfulness. There was no religious duty to which he did not give himself with joy and enthusiasm. The prayer meeting, morning and evening worship, special services, Christian organizations of undenominational name, all feeling the inspiration of his strong character, his work and efficient co-operation. As state president of the Gideons his personality has been abundantly felt in that splendid organization. Though quiet and unassuming his life as a citizen was strongly felt in all movements for municipal righteousness. He represented a high type of citizenship, every thing of interest to the commercial, educational and moral welfare of the city being a part of himself. He did not belong to the indifferent order of voters, knowing that right plans and good men do not get their place in the thought and life of the municapity without the wise and energetic co-operation of high-minded and patriotic men. He belonged to that class of citizens who know and have experienced that patriotism costs. No home ever had a more loving husband and noble father. As a commercial traveler for many years, his territory covering a number of states, that Sunday was exceptional that he did not spend with his family, riding long distances to be with his wife and sons. Last Sunday afternoon was spent with the two boys, Warren and William in a stroll through the fields and groves to see and hear the birds, the prophets of spring and summer. His memory as a husband and father will ever be richly cherished. Thomas G. Betts was one of God's noble men, who did his part to make the world happier and better. He was born in Plattsburg, New York, Feb 24, 1858. He removed with his parents, who are still living, to Washington D. C. when he was ten years old. In high school he was prepared for Princeton university where he remained during his freshman and sophomore years. He then came west locating in Hawarden, Iowa, where he was a hardware merchant for ten years. He removed to Cedar Rapids thirteen years ago, from which point he has traveled as a hardware manufacturer's agent, being one of the best known and successful salesman on the road. Mr. Betts was twice married. His first wife being Miss Cornelia Maupin of Washington, D.C. One son, Edward G. was born of this union, who for the past winter has been employed at Jerome, Iowa. On Dec. 13, 1894, Mr. Betts was married to Miss Alice May. Their two sons were Warren and William. Besides the wife and sons, there also mourn the loss of this beloved man, the father and mother, William T.,a brother, Mrs. S.s. English, a sister, all residing in Washington, D.C. and E. H. Betts, a brother in Sioux City. The burial will take place in Hawarden.

• Thomas Betts died in the Green Mountain train accident.
  • Reference: Find A Grave Memorial - SmartCopy: Aug 10 2017, 18:34:33 UTC