Mrs. E. E. Slater died at her home at No. 807 Penn avenue at 7 o’clock this morning. The first indications of a serious nature were noticeable yesterday evening and a weakened condition of the heart is the supposed cause of death. About a year ago Mrs. Slater sustained a severe injury in a fall, and although having measurably recovered from this trouble it is believed that the injury had some effect in shortening the period of vitality.
Mrs. Edna Elizabeth Slater was among the well-known pioneer residents of the Northwest. She was born in East Tennessee October 17, 1835. Her parents were Robert D. and Agnes Gray. Her husband, Jas. H. Slater, who died about twenty years ago, was also a well known figure in the early history of the state, having been a representative in the lower branch of congress and in the United States senate.
They came to Oregon in 1853, settling in the Willamette valley. In 1863 they removed to Walla Walla and in 1864 they went to Auburn in Baker county, their team being the first to cross the newly constructed Daily road. On January 5, 1866, they came to La Grande and this has been the family home ever since. In all the trying experiences of pioneer life and in the rearing of a large and honored family Mrs. Slater holds a place that reflects the highest ideal of life and character.
The surviving members of the family are Olive, and John Slater with whom she has made her home in the late years; James D., an attorney of La Grande; Woodson T., an attorney of Salem and former member of the supreme court; Frank S., cashier of the National Bank of Canyon City; Mrs. Nellie G. Neill and Mrs. A. B. Cherry, of La Grande, and Mrs. Bertha Smith of Portland. There are also two brothers, George Gray of Lower Cove, and Joseph Gray of Philomath, Oregon.
It is not definitely known as to the time of the funeral but unless changes are made it will be held from St. Peter’s church Thursday afternoon at 2 o’clock.
La Grande Evening Observer
Tuesday, February 29, 1916
Front Page
Contributed by: Tom Childers
Portland, Oregon
