Obituary from the local newspaper, the Centralia Sentinel

"Mrs. Kate Marsh Called By Death - Passes Away at Home of Daughter, Mrs. J.
L. Davis Today.

Mrs. Kate Marsh, one of Centralia's pioneer citizens, well and favorably known to many in Centralia and the community, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. L. Davis, 384 South Poplar Street today. She was born at Fort Erie, West Canada, February 28, 1930, and came to Centralia in 1854, having lived in this city since that time. She was married to R. L. F. Marsh April 26th, 1857. Her husband died in 1867 and a son, Harley W. Marsh died in 1894. She leaves to mourn their loss a son, George R. Marsh, and a daughter, Mrs. J. L. Davis with whom she had made her home for many years. She is also survived by six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Mrs. Marsh was 92 years of age at the time of her death, and was beloved by all who came into contact with her. Her life was a quiet but beautiful one, and she possessed a great spirit of altruism. She was much interested in the welfare of others, though she never participated in any public events because of her age. She came to Centralia in a stagecoach and watched the growth of Centralia with keen interest. To her children and acquaintances she interestingly told of the growth and development of the city of Centralia. She knew the history of Centralia well, having lived a great part of it. She was much interested in civic affairs, and the evening before her death, asked that the paper be read to her. She noted all progressive movements with interest. Her life was a religious one, and she often told of the first Sunday school that was had in Centralia, being held in the old Illinois Central station. She saw the growth of the railroad terminate in this city, and it was with pleasure that she told of the development of the city. Friends and acquaintances of the deceased delighted to hear her tell of the history of the city. Her life, though a quiet one, was well lived, and her loss is felt with keen regret to all who knew her. The funeral services will be held from the residence of J. L. Davis, 384 South Poplar St. Saturday afternoon at two o'clock. The funeral services will be in charge of the Rev. A. P. Howells of Jacksonville, Ill."

Submitted by The Genseeke