OBIT: John C. WELLER, 1940, Milford Township, Somerset County, PA

File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Meyersdale Library.
Transcribed and proofread by: Richard Boyer.

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JOHN C. WELLER

J. C. Weller, 89, Called To Rest
Veteran Educator, Legislator Dies At Home in Milford Township

  Hon. John C. Weller passed away at his home in Gebhartsburg, Milford Township, 
early Wednesday morning at the age of 89 years.
  Mr. Weller served three terms as a member of the general assembly, was county 
superintendent of schools for six years, and was justice of the peace in Milford 
Township for over 60 years.
  John C. Weller was born in the old stone Somerset County jail building, August 
31, 1851, while his father, John Weller, was sheriff of the county.  His mother 
was Sarah (Critchfield) Weller.
  He attended common and normal schools in Somerset County and completed his 
education in the Millersville State Normal School.  Mr. Weller served as a 
school teacher for many years and was then elected county superintendent of 
schools in 1881, succeeding J. B. Whipkey.
  During his two terms in that office, Mr. Weller spent much time in keeping up 
the standards of county schools.  Many new schools were opened and a larger 
enrollment was noted.  Many new buildings were erected in the six year period.
  Of chief importance was the fact that Mr. Weller brought the annual teachers' 
institute into prominence.  Welfley's "History of Bedford and Somerset County" 
credits Mr. Weller with "so uplifting the county institute that teachers began 
attending the sessions with regularity, learning much to assist them in their 
school work."
  Surviving is a daughter, Miss Marie Weller, at home.  A son, Lieut. Elliott 
Weller, was killed in action during the World War.  His wife, Laura (Elliott) 
Weller, passed away three years ago.  One brother, Elmer Weller, lives in San 
Pedro, Cal.
  Funeral services will be conducted at the late home in Gebhartsburg, Milford 
Township, at 10:30 Friday morning by the Rev. Dr. George L. Roth, pastor of St. 
Paul's Reformed Church of Somerset, assisted by the Rev. Mr. Link, pastor of the 
Rockwood Reformed Church.  Interment will follow in the Union Cemetery at New 
Centerville under the direction of Charles R. Hauger, Somerset mortician.  
Services at the grave will be in charge of the I.O.O.F. of which he was a member 
for over half a century.

Meyersdale Republican, February 29, 1940