Jonathan Pettibone was born August 4, 1835, in the town of Hornellsville, N. Y., in that portion which was later set off as the town of Hartsville, and died at his home which is located in the same place as the log cabin in which he was born. His parents were Jonathan and Harriet Millner Pettibone.
He was baptized at about the age of sixteen years, and joined the Methodist Episcopal church at Alfred Station. At about the age of twenty-two, having been convinced for some time that he ought to keep the Sabbath, he united with the Seventh-day Baptist church of Hartsville, of which he was a consistent member the remainder of his life.
He was called to the office of deacon by his fellow church-members and was ordained in November, 1882. He also served the church as treasurer for twenty-five years, resigning this charge a few years ago on account of failing health. He was a man on whom the church relied, and was faithful in that which was committed to him.
Jonathan Pettibone was married Dec. 3, 1857, to Miss Harriet C. Clair of Alfred, who after nearly fifty years of married life survives him. To them were born four sons, two of whom died in infancy. Fred Pettibone died about thirty-five years of age, leaving one son, Bernard. The one surviving son is Frank L. Pettibone, who with his family has been living at the old homestead.
There also remain two sisters, Mrs. Langford Whitford, and a half-sister residing in Indiana, Mrs. Emeline E. Fuller.
Deacon Pettibone was a good citizen and an honored member of the community. He was always a strong advocate of total abstinence from intoxicating liquors, and was a Prohibitionist in politics from conscientious conviction. He will be missed not only by his near relatives, but also by a wide circle of friends. He is a good man gone to his rest. He has heard the Master say, "Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of the Lord."
The funeral services were conducted at the Hartsville church on Sunday, November 3, at one o'clock, Rev. William C. Whitford, officiating, assisted by Rev. Jesse E. Hutchins. At the conclusion of the service Brother Pettibone's favorite hymn was sung: "God be with you till we meet again."
