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From the Andover News, September 26, 1913.
Transcribed by Suzette Pondillo.


 

JANE DYER CUNNINGHAM

Jane Dyer Cunningham was born in Independence, N.Y., November 27th, 1834. In early childhood she removed with her parents to Andover and here her long and useful life was lived.

In 1856 she was married to Dr. A. E. V. Durand. To them were born five children of whom there are living, E.T. Durand of Buffalo, N.Y., C.N. Durand of Libertyville, Ill., and A.E.V. Durand of Moscow, N.Y. In July 1872, her husband, whose health had been shattered by disease, contracted while serving in the army, died.

In 1876, she married A.C. Cunningham. To them one son was born, Clayton Cunningham, now living in Chicago, Ill. Mr. Cunningham’s death occurred in 1882, and the burdens and responsibilities of life fell again with renewed force upon her. How well she met them, how bravely she did her part, how strong, and self-reliant she was, her character, her friends, her children can testify.

Blessed with keen humor there was always a silver lining to her clouds and in the later years of her life, it was this part of her experience upon which she most loved to dwell and which made her reminiscences, a delight to all who listened. Busy as she was in her home, she had time for all the vital interests of the town. Especially active in temperance work, she was the first President of the Womans Christian Temperance Union in Andover, and was identified with all its efforts for the uplift of the community. Progressive, she stood for the advancement of women, believing that every honorable field of endeavor should be open to them. A devoted member of the Presbyterian church, her influence was felt in all its departments of Christian work. Hers was indeed, a well rounded life. Surrounded by friends, loved and honored by her sons, cared for by a devoted niece, her years were crowned with peace and happiness.

The last months of her life were clouded by pain and suffering but courage and hope did not desert her. The end came quietly Wednesday, September the 3rd, 1913. The funeral was held the following Friday from her home, her pastor, the Rev. H.B. Williams, officiating, and burial was made in the family lot in Hillside cemetery.