Troy Times

April 17, 1856

ORBISON, DAVID W. - Died, on the 24th of March, at his residence in Miami County, Mr. David W. Orbison, aged 37 years, 2 months and 3 days.　 The deceased was endeared to a large circle of friends by the many excellencies, affability and kindness marked his intercourse with his fellow men, is only to affirm that to which all who knew him can readily testify.　 As a citizen, neighbor, father, husband and son, he discharged the duties of these several relations in a proper and commendable manner.　 In early life, before he had reached the sixteenth year of his age, he made a profession of religion and connected himself with the Presbyterian Church in Troy.　 Submission to the divine will, and a firm reliance upon the divine promises, were decidedly manifested throughout his career as a Christian.　 The writer of this notice, once beheld these traits brought out to view in unusual beauty and power, when the subject of them was bereaved of a darling child.　 The stoke was a severe one, but the father's heart was closed against all murmurings at this dispensation of Providence.　 "Thy will be done," was his only response, and with calm and holy resignation he laid the little one in the ground, in full assurance that he should rejoin it in the morning of the resurrection.　 During his last sickness--which was painful and lingering--he exemplified the faith and hope of the believer.　 Not a doubt escaped him concerning his title to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled.　 "Are you willing to die?" was the question put to him a short time before death.　 "I am willing," was the reply, "to be disposed of by God, as he may deem best."　 At times his sufferings were acute; yet during the paroxyams of pain, he was remarkably patient and uncomplaining.　 In the intervals of comparative ease, he was cheerful, conversing with his family and the numerous friends who visited him, with all the sociable that characterized him while in the enjoyment of perfect health.　 His conversation largely partook of a religious nature.　 He manifested much interest in the salvation of his impenitent acquaintances; frequently declaring that if God should spare his life, he would be more faithful in warning them of their danger, and in exhorting them to repentance.　 To his family and friends, his death was an unexpected event; but for such issue, we have abundant reason to believe, he was fully prepared.　 He fell asleep in Jesus as calmly as the infant drops into slumber in the mother's arms; while his spirit, plumed for a Heavenly flight, soared forth to

　　 "Everlasting Gardens,

Where angels walk and saraphs are the wardens;

　　 Where every flower,

Brought safe through death's dark portal,

　　 Becomes immortal!"