Wayne Co Press
July 14, 1932

Silas D. Talbert, one of the most prominent and progressive Farmers of Wayne county, died last Friday night at 9 o'clock, at the Mt. Vernon hospital, where he underwent an operation for gallstones six weeks ago.

Mr. Talbert was one of the leading men, not only of the locality in which he lived. But of Wayne Co.  He was a copable business man, a man of excellent judgment, not only of matters in connection with farming, but matters affecting the general good of the community, of which he was a part.  He took much interest in the church and gave freely of his time and means to eleemosynary institutions.

As a farmer, Mr. Talbert was very progressive; he was one of the most successful men in the county in his general farming operations. His acute business mind placed him as one of the first to recognize the quantities of red top.

Funeral services were held last Sunday at 2 o'clock p.m. at Bailey Methodist Episcopal church, north of Wayne City, conducted by Rev. Israel Turner and the Revs. Keltcher, Holler and Rush.  Burial followed at the Bailey cemetery.

Silas Drake Talbert, son on Benjamin C. and Martha Drake Talbert, was born in Muhlenberg county, Kentucky, September 21, 1857. Died July 8, 1932, aged 74 years, 9 months, and 17 days.

When about three years of age with his parents moved to Polk county, Illinois, where they resided about one year, then moved to Hamilton county, living there about six years and then moved to Wayne county, near Wayne City, Illinois.  Here he grew to manhood.

He was married to Martha A. Weaver, January 28, 1883.  To this union was born Geo. Austin, Nora May, Silas Elbert, Cora Jane and Bertha Ann. Nora May died in infancy.  Bertha Ann died at the age of 15.

Besides his companion and three children, he leaves to mourn their loss, three brothers, B. C., F.V.E, and A.W. Talbert, all of Wayne City.  One half-sister, Mary Warren of Wayne City, also seven grandchildren. He leaves a large number of nephews and nieces who loved and admired him.  His friends could be numbered by his acquaintances.

About 46 years ago he professed faith in Christ, at a meeting held at the Weaver school house, conducted by Rev. David Harris.  Shortly  afterward with his wife, he united with the M.E. church at Bailey and  has been a consistent member ever since.

Uncle Silas as he was familiarly called was a quiet unassuming man.  No one ever went to him for help that he did not favor.  In his passing  the community has lost one of its best and most highly respected citizens.

Funeral services was held at Bailey Church, Sunday July 10th at 2 p.m. conducted by Rev. J. J. Turner, of Fairfield, Ill., assisted by  Revs. Keltcher, Holler and Rush. Interment in Bailey cemetery.