BABCOCK, Rocelia G., the eldest of three daughters of Oliver P., and Susannah Fitch Babcock was born December 3, 1848, and died December 27, 1919, at the age of 71 years and 24 days. The place of her birth was on a farm on Gorton Hill. When but a young girl her parents moved to North Brookfield and later to the house where her home has been for fifty-two years. There were two other daughters born to this family, Marcella and Annette, the former wife of the late B. G. Stillman. Marcella alone remains of the immediate family. She tenderly and patiently cared for her sister in her days of ill health.
At the age of nineteen years Rocelia was baptized by the Rev. J. M. Todd and united with the Second Brookfield Seventh Day Baptist Church along with fourteen other young people, among whom were her two sisters. Since that time she has always remained a faithful and consistent member. About four years ago she was stricken with paralysis which left her partially crippled. It has been her portion to endure a great deal of suffering during these latter years, but throught it all her faith failed not, and there has always been manifested a sweet spirit of patience and thoughtfulness for others, fearful lest she should become too great a burden for her loving sister.
Although in poor health and with hands drawn out of natural shape they were not idle and many articles of beautiful lace and embroidery were delicately wrought which afforded her no small degree of comfort. Many a home has been graced by her handiwork which is a token of skill and also a token of her patience and love.
Although deprived of the privilege of attending church services she never lost her interest. She loved her Bible and prayer and often requested the pastors who called to pray with and for her. The worn and tired body returns to the dust whence it came but the spirit remains with its sweet benediction.
The Funeral services were conducted at the home Tuesday at 2 o'clock by Pastor Hutchins and the body laid to rest in the Brookfield Cemetery. J. E. H.
