James Patrick Thornton was my 3rd great-grandfather. He was born in Ireland and died in Hubbard, Dakota, Nebraska.
This obituary was from the North Nebraska Eagle, dated 28 July 1887.
Last Thursday night Hubbard precinct lost one of her best citizens, Mr. James Thornton. He had been to Jackson and after returning home complained to his wife of not feeling very well. For some years he had been unable to do a day’s work having hurt his back. Soon after entering the house he retired never to awaken again. His funeral took place Saturday followed by a large concourse of friends.
This was apparently also from the North Nebraska Eagle, although I”m not sure if it was from the same edition (I don’t have the original, just a transcription):
Jamas Thornton
A pioneer, a patriot, a neighbor
Has done his part, complet’d the laborAn aged parent, an honored chief
Lies dead, and fills the house with grief.Friends and mourners gathered
And many a fervent prayer rendered.That the soul which left the shell
May henceforth with its Maker dwell.Reader, stop! and shed a tear
For him who went before, who is your pioneerJuly 20, 1887, L.E.
