Thomas Hardwick

A Good Man Gone 

Thomas Hardwick, the subject of this notice, was born in Kentucky, Dec.19, 1819, departed this life, August 15, 1894, at his home near Clapper, Mo.  In the early days he was married to Harriet Yowell.  This loved companion preceded him to the grave some seven years ago, and four children still survive them.  I was asked to write an obituary, but do not feel the words can do justice.  He just simply lived such a true life that it needs no comment to bring out its virtues.  He has run the race from youth to old age, from the cradle to the grave.  His life is worth mentioning, studying and recording.  A loved father, an exemplary Christian (a primitive Baptist).  In humility he lived, in honor to Jesus, caring not to seek vain popularity, persuading us in its simplicity that it is not all of life to live nor all of death to die, but when the heart goes before like a lamp to illuminate the pathway, many things are made clear that else be hidden in darkness.  His memory is a living monument to his children, more precious than gold. He has finished his pilgrimage here on earth, and lay down to rest wrapped in the mantle of death to await the glorious resurrection. 

Alas, Alas, for the shadows which fall,
‘Like on peasant’s cot and on prince’s hall
Alas for the hearts which are yearnings to gaze
On the loved and lost of earlier days’
Heaven alone can help those their grief to bear,
By whose hearth stone stands a "vacant chair".

Jennie Yowell 


Source: 1894 article from unknown newspaper.  Submitted by Debra Branigan.