Ilion High School - Class of 1917

Utica Herald Dispatch - February 23, 1918

Sergt. Hempstead Died in Service

Article 5

ISergt. Hempstead Died in Service

Utica Herald Dispatch Office No 4 First Street

Ilion, Feb. 23. - Sergt William Hempstead, who is the second soldier from here to lose his life in service, died at Camp Greene, S. C. yesterday.

Sergeant Hempstead had been ill with pneumonia for five weeks and his condition from the start had been critical. His father went to Camp Greene when it was known he was seriously ill. It was thought that he would recover at one period of his illness, but he suffered a relapse which hastened his death.

Sergt William Hempstead

The deceased was an excellent young man and bore an honored and highly respected reputation. His death will cause profound sorrow and grief. He was a devoted member of the Methodist Church and Sunday school and was yet under the voting age, but last summer, knowing that he was not subject to draft, he enlisted in the medical department, such was his patriotism and love of country. He was born in South Columbia 20 years ago and had lived in Ilion most of his young life, attending its schools and only a year ago he graduated from the Ilion High School. He is survived by his parents Mr. and Mrs. William Hempstead, and sister, Mrs. Eva Seymour of 51 High street. The remains will be shipped here by express and will be looked after by the Whiter Funeral Company. A military funeral will be held over his remains.