Minor Underwood, Sr.

Kansan, Friday, March 30, 1917

Minor Underwood, an aged and respected colored citizen of Newton, and an old resident, died this morning between 7:30and 8:00 o'clock, passing away in the course of performing his usual work as switch light tender for the Santa Fe railway, and dying as he lived, doing his duty as it came to his hand.

The sand Creek yards switch crew discovered Mr. Underwood lying by the track back of the rail saw mill on the "Y" about 7:20. J. J. Chuck, Frank Quilty and Basil Middleton members of the crew picked the old man up and placing him in a box car brought him to town. He was laying on his face when found. He was undoubtedly breathing his last while being brought to town. Mr. Underwood has been troubled with asthma for some time and there is no doubt but what this malady super-induced heart failure. There was no evidence of violence, and officers dispensed with any further investigation than hearing the story of the switch crew.

The body was removed to the Duff undertaking establishment.

Minor Underwood was an old soldier, and, a man past 70 years old. He was a resident of Newton many years, All who knew him best declare he was as fine an old gentleman as Newton's colored population can boast. He was respected by the railroad men, and was steady and reliable. For years he was a track man, and also served as a section foreman.

It will be recalled that a brother died suddenly while at work in the cinder pit here a few years ago, and only last year his son Lewis died suddenly.