Mary Louise Pile Felt Silver

Biographical Summary:

“… Mary Louise Pile (1835-1912) When Mary Louise was fourteen years of age she came in contact with Mormon missionaries who were preaching in the vicinity of her home. Much against the wishes of her parents she attended their meetings, and being the possessor of a beautiful voice took great pride in singing their hymns.

Because of her acceptance of the Latter-day Saint doctrine she was turned away from her home. Securing employment in the home of Lady Fairbrush, Mary Louise remained with her some three years until the time of her departure to America on the ship Golconda with other converts. During her stay with Lady Fairbrush she was called “Polly” and for many years was known by that name.

Mary Louise arrived in Salt Lake City in November 1856 and immediately found employment in the home of J. B. H. Stenhouse, whose wife was an expert milliner. The young girl soon became adept at making and trimming hats.

Mrs. Felt became an enthusiastic member of the Tabernacle choir and also served as leader of the Stake Relief Society choir for fourteen years.

After the death of her husband, Nathaniel, she married on October 2, 1870, William John Silver. Two children were born to them, William Price and Mary, who accidentally drowned.

Mary Louise practiced homocoplathy and later became a doctor. She acquired most of her training through long hours of study and her nursing activities extended to hundreds of women and children.

Dr. Pile was a devoted Church worker all her life. Death brought to a close an illustrious career at her modest home in Salt Lake City. Services were held for her in the Nineteenth Ward meetinghouse at which time Charles W. Penrose and other prominent speakers paid tribute to her outstanding qualities as a pioneer doctor and leader…”