Postmaster William Locher Reinhart, one of Shepherdstown’s best-known residents, died at his home in this place last Saturday morning, at the age of 71 years, 9 months and 14 days. His death had been anticipated, as he had been suffering for several months from a malady that was known to be incurable. Last fall Mr. Reinhart was affected by what seemed to be an enlargement of the glands of his neck, but which was, in reality, a very serious cancerous growth. At first he sought relief by various forms of treatment, but only temporary relief was afforded, and when at last he submitted to surgical operation it was too late to entirely extirpate the affected parts. The disease seemed, indeed, to become rapidly more malignant,and hope was abandoned. For several months he suffered terribly, and his tongue having become paralyzed, he was able to swallow only with the greatest difficulty. As he gradually wasted away he realized his condition, but he was patient in his suffering tnd resigned himself to the will of God. He faced death calmly, and expressed the desire to be at rest, and passed away in full hope of a blessed resurrection. Mr. Reinhart was a son ot the late Christian Reinhart, and was born on the old home place, “Willow Well Farm,” east of town. When but a boy of 18 years, in 1864, he entered the Confederate service is a member of Company D, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, commanded first by Captain Knott and later by Captain Kearley. He fought until the surrender at Appomattox. Practically all his life was spent in this neighborhood. Will Reinhart was one of the biggest-hearted men we have ever known. Generous and kindly and considerate, he was a friend to all, and no trouble was too great and no sacrifice too heavy when it came to serving those whom he esteemed. He was one of the most companionable and genial of men. Always cheerful and optimistic, his way of looking at the right side of affairs was an inspiration, and he has helped to dispel many a cloud if sorrow and anxiety. He was never happier than when he was doing some kindness or service for others. How he will be missed in this community, where his genial good fellowship and kindness had gained him so many friends! Mr. Reinhart ts survived by his wife and seven children : Laura, wife of Frederick VanMeter; Nettie, wife of Charles Miller; Anna, wife of William VanMeter; |ohn Allen, Mabel, Mary and William Jennings, at home. The funeral service was held Monday morning in the Southern Methodist Church, and the large congregation that was present testified to the esteem in which he was held. The Confederate veterans ot this vicinity attended in a body. The service was conducted by Rev. Absalom Knox, assisted by Rev. I. D. Worman. Rev. Mr Knox made a beautiful address appropriate to the occasion, and the sweet singing of a solo by Wm. B. Snyder was very affecting. It vas a solemn and impressive service, After the service in the church, the body was laid to rest in Elmwood Cemetery. Peace to the soul of this old friend, it God’s good pleasure be.
