Died in the Township of Mariposa on the 1st of April, Elizabeth Reader, after an illness of nine days. Sister Reader was converted to God about seven years ago, under the labors of the Rev. J. Cook united with our church at that time, and continued a member until it pleased God to remove her to another and we trust a better world. May the God of all our mercies sustain her husband and friends, and kindly care for the little ones she has left behind.
Also, Jane wife of George Bateman and mother of the above in the 49th year of her age, and the 30th year of her connection with the church.
Sister Bateman and her husband were among the first who settled in Mariposa. Their house was always open to receive the servants of God. She died on the 11th of April, after an illness of five days, brought on no doubt by over-exertion at he time of her daughter's illness and death. Sister Bateman was an affectionate wife and mother. She leaves an affectionate husband and a large family to mourn, but they sorrow not as those who have no hope, believing their loss to be her gain.
Friend after friend departs
Who has not lost a friend?
There is no union here of hearts
That finds not here an end.
J. P. Sparrow
Research Note: J. Cook was minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Oakwood from 1858 to 1860 and J.P. Sparrow was minister in 1864. At the time of the above obituary, J.M. Simpson was minister (1865-1867). Rev. Simpson probably wrote at least part of the obituary. Source: Irwin, Ross W., 1984, Mariposa, The Banner Township, A History of the Township of Mariposa, Victoria County, Ontario: Ross Irwin Enterprises, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.