Deacon Benjamin Fowler

Death of Deacon Benjamin Fowler
Died in Racine Co., Sept. 29, 1848, Deacon Benjamin Fowler, aged 64 years. He was born in Mass., and in a few years moved to Me, where he experience religion when about 21 years of age, and united with the C. Baptist. Subsequently he returned to N. H.; and 40 years ago last March, he was married to Miss Norry Hayes, from thence he moved to Cabot, Vermont. 32 years ago his wife experienced religion, and they both united with the Free Will Baptist church in that place, and he became one of its deacons. He was also once a member of the Legislature of that state. After residing in Cabot 26 years, he removed with his family to the state of Illinois, where he lived three and a half years. He then came to this town, and settled upon the place where he died. The county was then new, and the inhabitants few and far between; of course he had to suffer much inconvenience. The Honey Creek church was organized 8 years ago, with six members. He was one of that number. Subsequently he became one it Deacons, and live to see 7 of his children converted and united with the same church, which gave him and his wife great joy. He was a man of strong mind and strong constitution too. About one year ago he was taken infirm, but was able to labor considerably until the latter part of May, last, at which time he had to yield to disease and retire. The best medical aid was called; but the disease was not stayed, which was said to be chronic inflammation of the stomach and bowels. Very soon after he was taken sick, he was conscious he should not live, and gave directions in relation to his business, made his will, &c. About this time, the writer called to see him. "Well," said he, "I have got my business all settled up to my mind and am ready to go where ever the Lord sees fit to take me", and was very happy; but regretted that he has done so little for God and his cause. I was often to see him during his sickness, and to give all the particulars would require a volume; but, to say the least, it was a feast for the Christian to be with him, for he seemed to have a message form God to every one that called. Often he was very happy. Three weeks before he died, he could speak only in a whisper. A short time before his lingering spirit took its flight, he called his wife to him, shook hands with her and they gave each other a parting kiss. Then what of his children that were at his house were called and he took his leave of them in the same manner often saying. "God bless you, glory," &c. This was one of the most heavenly scenes I ever witnessed. 0, thought I, what a resemblance of heaven this. A few hours before he left us, I called, and as I went to the bed, the victim of death stretched out his emaciated hand, but could not speak. Said I, if you feel happy, press my hand. It was immediately done, and then he pointed up, as much to say that there was his all. He had before this given direction as to his funeral, and selected the writer to preach on the occasion He continued a few hours, and then he died without a groan, leaving a wife and twelve children to mourn their loss, and the church to fell the loss of a benevolent brother. Remarks by the writer at his funeral. Abner Coombs

[From the Morning Star—\/ol. 23, No. 29—Nov. 1, 1848: Transcribed by the Free-Will Baptist Historical Collection, Greg McCarty]