The Tragic Passing of a Respected Seattle Druggist

Seattle was shocked this morning by the announcement of the sudden death of one of our most prominent and highly respected citizens, Mr. Joseph P. Morrill. He had retired the night before at about 9 o'clock, appearing in his usual health, and in the morning was found dead in his bed. His lodgings were directly over his store on Commercial Street, and the room he occupied was furnished with two beds, one of which was used by himself and the other by his clerk, Mr. Clark. The deceased had been afflicted with asthma for many years and was frequently unable to obtain sleep without the use of chloroform, which alone would tend to alleviate his sufferings. On this occasion, he moistened a handkerchief with the anaesthetic and, placing it on his pillow, lay down with it under his head. He was found dead in this position in the morning by his clerk. Mr. Morrill was born in Winthrop, Kennebec County, Maine, in January 1841. He came to Seattle in 1870. Immediately after his arrival here, he was employed by Mr. M. Maddocks in his drug establishment and subsequently by Mr. Matthew Kelly of his store. In 1873, he went into the drug business on his own account in partnership with Mr. [name illegible] in the present drug store on Commercial street. In one year after, he purchased his partner's interest and has since been conducting the business himself. As a citizen, Mr. Morrill was highly esteemed, and in his profession as a druggist he was most capable and always attentive to his business. By his upright conduct, he won the respect of all, while by his generosity and affability, he endeared himself to a large circle of friends who sincerely mourn his loss. The funeral services will take place this morning at 11 o'clock from the residence of Mr. A. Morrill, under the conduct of the Masonic Fraternity of this city.