Lyda Catherine Southard

Serial Killer

Lyda Catherine Ambrose: The Black Widow of the Early 20th Century

Early Life

Born in 1891, Lyda Catherine Ambrose's early life remains largely undocumented. Her known history begins in 1917, marking the start of a series of calculated and heinous crimes.

First Fiancé: 1917

In 1917, in Keytesville, Missouri, Ambrose became engaged to an unnamed man. Shortly after he secured a $2,500 life insurance policy naming her as the beneficiary, he died unexpectedly from severe stomach pains. This sudden death raised no immediate suspicions, allowing Ambrose to collect the insurance payout.

Second Husband: 1917

Displaying a disturbing lack of mourning, Ambrose swiftly married her deceased fiancé's brother just days after the funeral. Within three months, he too succumbed to mysterious stomach ailments after obtaining a $2,500 life insurance policy in her favor. Once again, Ambrose benefited financially from the untimely demise. ...Read More

Confirmed Victims: (1)

Edward F. Meyer , Date of Death: 1920-09-07

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Suspected Victims:

Robert Dooley , Date of Death: 1915-10-12

Edward Dooley , Date of Death: 1915-08

Harlen Lewis , Date of Death: 1919-03

Lorraine Dooley Age: (2), Date of Death: 1915

Lyda Ambrose | Murderpedia

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