Dora Potter Lawton, daughter of Stephen and Harriet Greene Potter, was born in the town of Albion, Wis., February 25, 1862, and died at her home in the village of Albion, Wis., January 13, 1929, being nearly sixty-seven years of age.
She was converted in early life and was baptized by Rev. J. L. Huffman, February 4, 1877, and united with the Albion Seventh Day Baptist Church, of which she remained a faithful and devoted member till called home. She was married to Frank B. Lawton, October 24, 1883. Four children were born to this union - Hattie, who died in infancy; Giles; Hattie [Helen], who is now Mrs. Lloyd Simpson; and Stephen, all of whom reside in Battle Creek, Mich. She was a charter member of the Willing Workers society and was one of its most active members, and when not physically able insisted on taking her turn in having the society meet in her home. She was also a charter member of the Royal Neighbors, who for the past three years have met with her. In her church relations she was always a loyal member, interested and tireless in doing her part.
Mrs. Lawton was a loyal wife, a devoted, loving mother, and a most helpful neighbor and friend ready to give aid in any time of sickness and trouble, always doing the little kindnesses and hospitable deeds which so endeared her to the community. Her doors were swung wide with the most generous hospitality warm with friendship. It was one of her greatest trials during the season of her poor health that she could not do for others the things that had always given her so much joy in doing.
Besides her husband, she leaves to mourn her departure, two sons, one daughter, and their companions, two grandchildren, three sisters - Mrs. D. B. Coon of Milton, Wis., Mrs. Herbert Edwards of Milwaukee, and Mrs. M. J. Babcock of Albion, Wis. - besides a host of other relatives and friends. 'Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. They shall rest from their labors and their works do follow them.'
Burial services were held from the Albion church the afternoon of January 15, conducted by Rev. E. Adelbert Witter, a former pastor. The weather was severe but the large number gathered and the display of flowers all breathed forth the sweetness of the friendship for the departed. A wife, a mother is gone, but the husband and the children have to hold the fragrance of her love and devotion as well as her example of loyal devoted life service, Pastor Witter used for the occasion John 14: 1-3. E. A. W.
