Matthew Potter, son of Edward and Nancy Burdick Potter, was born July 4, 1826, and died at his home at Hartsville, N. Y., January 29, 1914, aged 87 years, 6 months and 25 days.
Mr. Potter was married to Sarah S. Hemphill on March 13, 1856. To them were born three daughters - Mabel, who died in infancy, Mrs. Eva Palmiter, Mrs. Flora Pettibone, and an adopted daughter, Mrs. Lillian Howard. His wife died twelve years ago.
Mr. Potter, left fatherless when he was twelve years old and being the eldest of four children, helped his mother to make a living for the family, and was the last of the family to survive. He died on the farm where he was born and had always lived. He knew no other home than the quiet country home where he lived a life that might well be admired for honesty, loyalty and uprightness. His father was one of the pioneer settlers of Allegany County, and one of the earliest Seventh Day Baptists, a constituent member of the First Seventh Day Baptist church of Allegany County.
Mr. Potter was a lover of his Bible. He was always at his place at church and took an active part in the Sabbath-school work, until prevented by old age and failing health. He was hospitable to all, always ready to help in time of need. He found comfort in the promises his Bible offered him, and we might well admire him for this. He continued his daily devotions until he was called home.
"Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them."
The funeral was held at the home, Sunday afternoon, February the first, conducted by Pastor I. S. Goff. Interment was made in the Hartsville Cemetery on the farm that was owned by his father. I. S. G.
