[This is the obituary of John P. Sheldon, published in the Fitchburg Sentinel in Fitchburg, Worcester, Massachusetts – Thur., 17 Jul 1902 – page 6]

Death of John P. Sheldon.

John P. Sheldon, one of the older of the native Inhabitants of Fitchburg, died at his residence, 130 Academy street, at 4:30 a. m. today. Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon celebrated their golden wedding, Oct 15,1901, and though his health was somewhat Impaired, It was a very enjoyable occasion., Four days later his physical condition compelled him to leave his work and he has not left his residence since that date.

The cause of his disability was heart disease which had been developing for a considerable time, but he did not leave his customary employment till compelled by weakness, though his strong vitality kept him alive nearly nine months after he was confined to the house. He was obliged to sit up continuously for several weeks in order to respire.

Mr. Sheldon was the second of four sons of Samuel and Tamar (Pratt) Sheldon, all of whom lived to be over 73 years old and were lire long residents of Fitchburg.

John P. Sheldon was born in a house which Is still standing on the Ashby West road, on Feb. 4, 1822. His early life was spent on his father’s farm.  He attended the public schools and the Fitchburg academy, and learned the wheelwright trade of Charles Brigham and later worked at Hale W. Page’s piano case manufactory on Water street near the stone bridge. He continued the [illegible] and wheelwright business on his own account in 1861, at the shop at 13 Brook street, where he continued during the remainder of his life.

Though warmly Interested in public affairs he never sought or held public office.

He married. Oct. 15, 1851, Miss Lydia E. Robbins of Augusta, Me, who survives with three sons Frank E., who lives at home. William N. of Providence and John H. of Everitt, and one grandson, Ralph E., son of Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Sheldon. Water Commissioner  Samuel D. Sheldon Is the only survivor of the four brothers.

Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon had resided for more than 50 years In the house here he died. He was greatly respected for integrity and other virtues which make the true husband, father and citizen.