This is the only photograph I have of my Great, Great Grandfather, Edison Smith. The photo comes from a United Brethren yearbook.

Obituaries

Rev. Ed Smith:

Rev. Ed. Smith was born Jul 13, 1849, at Rochester, N.Y., and died at his home in Pittsfield, Pa., on the 13th day of June, 1926. For a half century he preached the Gospel of Christ in Erie Conference, as Presiding Elder for ten years, and as pastor of different congregations throughout the Conference. Rev. Smith was an excellent pastor and a great organizer, knowing full well that the great good could only be obtained by a union of church forces, he always succeeded in perfect harmony with the church he had in charge. He was a fine speciman of a Christian diplomat, and understood how to lead men and churches in undivided service.

In preaching he was evangelistic, and took delight in conducting revival meetings, a sphere in which he was very successful, holding many gracious revivals during his ministry.

He was twice married, his first wife dying at Sugar Grove some fifteen years ago. To this union were born two daughters, one dying in infancy, the other living to womanhood and married when she went to her crowning about 20 years ago. His second wife was Mrs Brooks of Pittfield, who survives him. A granddaughter in the west, and a nephew in Cassadaga are the only other near relatives the writer knows of.

Brother Smith was never a rugged man, and labored always under the handicap of a weak body; but what he lacked in physical strenght he made up in social qualities, being always cheerful and a good entertainer.

Funeral services in his memory were held in the United Brethren Church at Pittsfield, the church where he preached his last sermon and a church he was largely responsible for. His last work on earth, a child of his age. It was largely attended by ministers of the Conference, and the sermon, according to his request, was given bt Rev. N. J. MacIntyre. The tabernacle of flesh rests in the family plot at Cassadaga, N. Y., by the side of his wife and daughters. His spirit is with God, who gave it.

18 Jun 1926
page 11, col. 5
Warren Morning Mirror

PITTSFIELD, June 17 - The funeral of Rev. E. Smith was held at the U.B. church Wednesday at one P.M. A large number attended the funeral. There was a number of beautiful flowers given by the church W.C.T.U and friends of the family. Rev. N.J. MacIntrye of Bradford, Pa. spoke words of comfort, and appreciation of Rev. Smith. A large delegation of ministers was present. . Other friends who attended the funeral from a distance were Mrs. C. Cogswell, Warren, Pa., Mrs. Ford Union City, Pa., Mrs. C. Woodcocks, Pleasantville, Pa., Mrs. Willet Carson Pleasantville, Pa., Mrs. Chas. Snell, Mrs. Bertha McKinney, Mrs. M. Whitney of Youngsville, Pa., Mrs. Chas. Stone and son Ralph of Marion, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Penner, Cherry Creek, N.Y. Mr. and Mrs. Roy Smith and son of Cassadaga, N.Y.

Rev. Smith was born in Rochester, N.Y. He was Dist. Supt. in Erie Conference for ten years, and in the active ministry for fifty years. He was a man who was loved by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed in Erie Conference, and in the local U.B. church.

Rev. E. Smith

Rev. E. Smith of Pittsfield, died at his home, Sunday afternoon at 5:30. Funeral services will be held at the late home at 12:30 Wednesday afternoon and at the United Brethren church at 1:00 p.m.