The Galena Gazette, June 25, 1896

Pioneer Resident of Galena Passes Away Wednesday.

Richard Evans died Wednesday evening at 7:30 o'clock at the home of his sister, Mrs. Hannah Yeaman, on Bench Street. He had been failing gradually for a week and the end came not unexpectedly. He was a native of Wales and was 77 years of age. His father, a well known pioneer of Galena, came here at an early day and settled on a farm in East Galena, where he lived until his death occurred. Of his large family of children the survivors are Evan Evans of East Galena, Mrs. Edward Thompson, Mrs. Thos. Burton, Mrs. David Heer, Mrs. Hannah Yeaman and Mrs. Winthrop of this city, and Mrs. R. A. Oliver of Stockton.

The deceased was a proficient musician and devoted his life principally to his favorite art. He was a member of the choir of Father Kent's church in early days, and at the recent semi-centennial celebration of the South Presbyterian church was conspicuous as a member of the "choir of olden times", which took part in the exercises. He was a generous, kindly man, with a soul as gentle as the melodies he loved, and he enjoyed the friendship and good will of all who knew him. His wife has been dead many years. Their children are George Evans of Apple River, Mrs. Hutchinson Hayes of Denison, Iowa, Mrs. Mortimer Clark of Maquoketa, Ia., Mrs. H. M. Barkham of McKenny, Texas.

The funeral will be held to-morrow at 2 o'clock from Mrs. Yeaman's home. Rev. E. C. Arnold will officiate.

Submitted by Jennifer Heer Norman - Jennifer@heergenealogy.com