Obituary: Albert M. Vinson (1858-1921)

Source: Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, October 26, 1921, page 1.

Sudden Death Takes Ab Vinson at Early Hour

Was on Duty as Patrolman Yesterday and Last Night; Funeral Friday

A.M. Vinson, age 63 years, 2 months and 26 days, passed away at his home, 702 South Harrison street, at 12:30 this morning. His death was very sudden and came within a very few minutes after he had entered his home, having left his duties as patrolman at midnight. It was only three months ago that he was appointed as one of the city's police officers, and during that time he served faithfully and well, although handicapped by a siege of illness that lasted some time and from which he had but recently recovered.

Born in This County.

A.M., "Ab" as he was more generally known, Vinson, was born in Madison county, July 3, 1858. He was the son of the late James and Elizabeth Vinson. He lived on his farm, 3 miles north of Alexandria until about 18 years ago, when he moved to this city. He became engaged in the implement business and for several years was in partnership with Roe Jones in the building now occupied by the Alexandria Motor Sales Co. He was also deputy sheriff of Madison county during the four years incumbency of the sheriff's office by Jack Mountain.

Although weak from the effects of a three weeks' illness, Mr. Vinson insisted upon discharging his duties as patrolman. He was on duty last night as usual until 12:15 a.m., leaving for his home after his shift had expired. He went to his room, and shortly after entering Mrs. Vinson, hearing an unusual sound which had awakened her, went into the room where Mr. Vinson sat and found him lifeless. The angle of death had swooned down on the husband without a word of warning.

A Good Citizen

Deceased was a splendid man, a good citizen and one that was in every way worthy of the respect, confidence and esteem of his fellowmen. He took his responsibilities as patrolman seriously, and accepted the place because he felt it his duty to do so and not because he wanted the place. He was conscientious in the discharge of this duties and showed no favoritism. He did his duty as God gave him the light to see it. His death comes at a time when Alexandria needed his services and his cool and unprejudiced judgment.

Mr. Vinson is survived by his widow, Mrs. Nettie Vinson, one stepson, George B. Epperson, and a stepdaughter, Mrs. F.O. Karll, both of Barraboo, Wis. Also two brothers, Joshua E. Vinson, of this city, and Edward Vinson, of South Bend.

Deceased was a member of Necessity Lodge No. 222, I.O.O.F. and the Encampment; also of Meshingomisha Tribe No. 110, Red Men.

[Note: Albert was my maternal 2nd-great granduncle, having been married 1st to Anna L. Wright (1864-1914), daughter of Joseph and Rebecca (Heaton) Wright.]