The Rockford Morning Star, Wednesday 4 October 1911
(Illinois)

DEATH SUMMONS TO W. J. HAMLEY
END CAME YESTERDAY AFTERNOON AT 4:35 O’CLOCK
FUNERAL THURSDAY
Was Contracting Stone Mason for Over Half Century—Lived in Same House for Fifty-five Years
After a heroic effort to keep life’s sands from running their course, William J. Hamley closed his eyes in a death sleep yesterday afternoon at 4:35 o’clock at his home, 1616 Rural street.
Mr. Hamley had been suffering of heart trouble for the past three months, sustained a paralytic stroke last Wednesday. He was conscious to the last and conversed with the immediate family gathered around the bedside until a few minutes before he breathed his last.
Deceased was born in Wadebridge, Cornwall, England, December 24, 1830. When a youth he embarked for America, settling in the east for a few years before coming to Rockford, June 12, 1854. Immediately after coming to this city Mr. Hamley engaged in mason contracting, which he followed until a short time ago. Many of the stone houses in this city were constructed by decedent. With John Allen and George E. Wilson, Mr. Hamley erected many of the stone structures on the west side. He was considered one of the best stone-masons in the city and commanded contracts in all parts of the city.
He was married in this city two years after coming from the east, which was November 18, 1856. Mr. and Mrs. William Hamley celebrated their golden wedding anniversary November 18, 1906. They were married by the Rev. Mr. Goodwin, then pastor of the First Congregational church. Mr. Hamley became affiliated with the Centennial M. E. church in 1862 and has always been a most willing worker.
Mr. and Mrs. Hamley have lived in the residence at 1616 Rural street for fifty-five years, or ever since they were married. After returning from a brief wedding trip the couple started housekeeping in the Rural street home, in which the husband’s spirit passed out. Had he been spared until November 18, Mr. and Mrs. Hamley would have celebrated their fifty-fifth anniversary.
The decedent is survived by his mother, the widow and four children. They are George W. Hamley of the Superior laundry, James W. Hamley and Mrs. William Hazard of Rockford and Mrs. Richard Fiddick of Greene, Iowa.
Funeral services will be held from the home Thursday afternoon. If Rev. F. W. Barnum has returned from the Rock River conference he will officiate.
Deceased had an extensive acquaintance among the older residents of Rockford and since he has been ill there have been many anxious inquiries as to his condition.

Contributed by Bob Bolitho