Richard Francis Tanton

(Taken from 10/11/1928 Tazewell County Reporter)

R. F. TANTON SUMMONED ON SATURDAY

Prominent Citizen Died After Brief Final Illness

R. F. Tanton had been in failing health for the past two years, but his final sickness was of short duration. He was able to be up town on Wednesday and was confined to his bed only one day. Heart complications were responsible for his death. He peacefully sank to his final rest at 10:30 o’clock Saturday morning, Oct. 6.

Mr. Tanton had been prominent in the public life of our city. He was mayor of Washington in 1909 and 1910. He afterwards was alderman of the city for three years. He was a member of the board of education for several years. He took a prominent part in all affairs for the betterment of the city in a business, social and religious way. He was a generous contributor to every worthy cause. He always supported and helped sustain our Commercial club.

He took an interest in public questions and while a Democrat in politics he was an independent thinker and was ever ready to express his opinion on the important questions of the day. He was a large land owner and while in late years he did not actively engage in farming, yet he closely superintended the management of his farms and was successful in his undertakings.

It was in his own home circle that Mr. Tanton was greatly loved. He was a model husband and father, ever looking out for the welfare of his loved ones. He led a most exemplary life and was an example of strict honesty and integrity in all his business dealings. His kindly life is an inspiration for others to follow and an inheritance to his family.

Richard Francis Tanton was born October 26, 1854, at Cazenovia, Ill. He was the third son of Richard and Betsy (Radley) Tanton, early and well known settlers in Illinois. His father, mother and two brothers, Charles and William, preceded him in death.

Mr. Tanton grew to manhood on the farm, attending the district school and Eureka college. He and his father operated farms together until 1893. In that year, on June 14, he was married to Miss Mae Dodds and they removed to Washington, where they had since made their home.

From this union two sons were born, Glenwood Charles in 1894 and John Francis in 1898. He is survived by his wife, two sons and seven grandchildren.

The funeral was held from the home on Monday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock, Rev. H. E. Andrews of Philo, Ill., a former pastor of the Washington Presbyterian church, officiating. Burial was in Glendale cemetery in this city.

Many relatives and friends from out of the city were present to pay their last respects to his memory.