William Bilyeu, one of the oldest citizens of Linn County, died at his residence near Scio last Wednesday, aged 80 years [June 25, 1879].
He was perhaps the ancestor of the most numerous family in Oregon-the Bilyeu’s reaching over a hundred in number, nearly all of whom reside on the Forks of Santiam.
We deeply sympathize with his large circle of relatives and friends, and shall attempt to secure a more succinct obituary of the good old man at an early day. Peace to his ashes. [William married Dianna Coker in 1816 TN. He fathered 12 children. William is buried in the Bilyeu Den Cemetery].
Contributed by: Shelli Steedman
