p. 15 | Life Sketch of Elder H. H. Wilcox by J. W. Lair

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 12, 1911

Life Sketch of Elder H. H. Wilcox

By J. W. Lair

At his home four miles south of Potsdam, N. Y., on the morning of Sept. 2, 1911, occurred the death of Elder H. H. Wilcox, in the ninety-second year of his age. He was born at Redfield, Oswego Co., N. Y., Oct. 3, 1819, and therefore lacked but thirty-one days of being ninety-two years old.

Elder Wilcox was married to Didean Miles in 1841. Her death occurred in 1892. To them were born three children, two of whom are still living, Malcolm Wilcox, of Iowa, and William Wilcox, of Hermon, N. Y. Lottie Wilcox Freeman, the only daughter, died about two years ago. From these sprang several grandchildren.

Elder Wilcox was married to Mrs. Eliza Anna McCuen, who lived but a few months after their marriage, falling asleep in the spring of 1895. In the fall of 1896 he was united in marriage to Mary A. Meacham, who has loved and cared for this faithful pilgrim during his old age and last sickness.

Brother Wilcox's religious experience began in the Methodist Episcopal Church. Later in life he became acquainted with the doctrines taught by Seventh-day Adventists through the missionary efforts of a lay member, and by reading tracts and papers which were placed in his hands by this brother. In 1889 he began publicly to proclaim his faith by lecturing on the prophecies. Being a shoemaker, he worked at his trade, then preached as long as his means lasted. Through the snow, rain, and storms of northern New York he traveled by foot in those early days, visiting the people in their homes, selling books, reading the Word, praying and preaching in schoolhouses, as the way opened.

Sept. 26, 1881, he was ordained to the gospel ministry by the Seventh-day Adventist conference. He has been a faithful minister of Jesus Christ, never failing to keep an appointment. He loved his work, he loved the people for whom he labored, and in turn he was loved by them.

Elder Wilcox was an instrument in the hands of the Lord of leading many to a knowledge of the third angel's message. Several of these are actively engaged in the proclamation of the message at the present time.

In his early experience as an Adventist, he was evidently a man of strong faith, being frequently called upon to pray for the sick. He has related some remarkable answers to prayer. He was a member of the New York Conference from the time of its organization. From the time he began to preach until his death, he sustained the relation of minister in the conference.

After his advanced age prevented him from engaging in active evangelistic labor, he continued to serve the churches of West Pierpont and South Russell with acceptance, his influence and instruction being of great assistance and encouragement.

During the past year Elder Wilcox was not able to go from place to place, yet he still retained the use of his mental faculties to a marvelous degree. At the annual conference held in Syracuse, Sept. 1-10, 1910, he bore a testimony of force and power, which was as clear and pointed as any he ever gave. His mind remained active and clear to the last.

It has been my privilege to make him frequent visits during the past year, the last being three days before his death. He spoke of his hope, and of the sure triumph of this message. He desired to live to see the Lord come, but was fully reconciled to sleep until the Life-giver comes. His strong constitution and great vitality combined with adherence to strict temperance principles, gave him a tenacious hold on life. He died of old age, and breathed his last as a child falling asleep. A large company attended the funeral services, which were held in the West Pierpont church. The discourse was based on Rev. 14:13. J. W. LAIR.