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SMITH, GEORGE (deceased), who spent his entire active life in mining operations, was for some years before his death a mine manager in Sangamon County, Ill. He was a useful, public-spirited citizen, performing well his duties in public and private life, and enjoyed the good will and esteem of all who came into contact with him. Mr. Smith left a widow and several children to mourn his loss, and his memory is tenderly cherished by all the members of his family. He was born in England, October 3, 1837, son of John and Mary (Homsbey) Smith, both natives of England, where the father worked in the mines. The parents were both reared in England, where both died, the father about 1900 and the mother about 1897. They were parents of seven sons and two daughters, the only survivor being a daughter living in Australia, who is the wife of Adam Gray, a stockholder in gold mines there.

George Smith was educated in the public schools of England and lived with his parents until his marriage. He took up mining as an occupation early in life, and became fully informed in the various methods and processes of carrying on the work, finally becoming a mine manager. He came to America about 1874, and for four years was engaged in mining at Riverton, Ill. He spent eight years in similar occupation at Dawson, and then spent thirteen years in Springfield, taking up mining stock there and in Clear Lake Township. He came to the place now occupied by his widow in 1897, and lived there until the time of his death.

Mr. Smith was married, in Durham County, England, in July, 1863, to Anna Todd, born January 23, 1838, daughter of John and Anna Todd, who spent their entire lives in England and died many years ago. Mrs. Smith has one brother who lives in Henry County, Ill., and is engaged in farming. Four sons and one daughter were born to Mr. Smith and his wife, namely: Ralph, at home; James, living in the country; Oliver; George, living in Bissell, and Lizzie, at home. Mr. Smith died March 12, 1910, and was buried in Oak Grove Cemetery. He was a devout member of the Methodist Church, and in politics was a Republican. Fraternally he was a member of the Order of Foresters and the Loyal Americans. His widow now owns the comfortable home where they resided for many years, and owns forty acres of fine farming land.