Yoder, Joseph W. (1872-1956)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1956 Nov 22 p. 3

Birth date: 1872

text of obituary:

Writer of Books on Amish Dies

JOSEPH W. YODER ALSO WIDELY KNOWN AS SINGER AND LECTURER

Belleville, Pa. — Funeral services were conducted at the Maple Grove Mennonite Church here Nov. 15 for Joseph W. Yoder, 84,well-known singer, lecturer, teacher, and author of "Rosanna of the Amish" and other books on the plain people. Death came at the J. C. Blair Memorial Hospital in Huntington on Nov. 13.

Mr. Yoder was born in the Amish community here, the son of Pre. Christian Z. and Rosanna McGonegal Yoder. He taught English, music and Greek at Elkhart (Ind.) Institute from 1897 to 1901. In the following year he conducted singing classes in Mennonite, Amish, Brethren in Christ and Methodist communities in a number of states, as well as appearing at teachers' institutes.

A graduate of Juniata College, a Brethren school, he was on the staff there for many years and also taught at Lock Haven State Teachers College.

In later years he devoted much time to writing and lecturing. Besides the "Rosanna" book, his books include "Amische Lieder," "Rosanna's Boys" and "Amish Traditions."

The funeral services were in charge of the pastor, Jacob F. Weirich. Also taking part were Rev. J. Raymond Powell, pastor of the Presbyterian church in Huntington, Bishop Aaron Mast, former pastor of the Maple Grove church, and Bishop A. J. Metzler of Scottdale. Several of Mr. Yoder's favorite hymns, including "Ich Weiss Einen Strom," were sung by the mixed chorus of the Belleville Mennonite High School directed by Marian Yoder.

Surviving are his wife, the former Emily Lane, and nieces and nephews.