Col. Josiah Willard
Who died April ye 19th
1786. In the 72 year of his age.
His birth & education which were honourable
He dishonored not in his youth. At an early period of his existence
He began to figure on the stage of life.
His disposition & Manners were engaging.
His connections were numerous and respectable.
His vocations various & important.
His influence & usefulness equally extensive.
And ye present populous & flourishing state
of these Western Territories
May be attributed to a great measure
To his vigorous & laudable Exertions
in promoting ye settlement
of ye wilderness.
His principles and morals were unimpeachable.
His faith & practice truly evangelical
sensible, social & benevolent.
His heart and doors were always open
to his friends in general.
And to ye learned regular and reputable
Among ye Clergy in particular.
He lived & died in a firm belief of ye gospel
Supported & animated to ye end of his course
By ye hope& prospect of an eternal crown.
His family & friends in his death
sustain a loss irreparable.
He will be had long in remembrance.
The wise will imitate his virtues
And fools lament they did not
When he shall rise immortal.
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