Lawrence County, Kentucky Genealogical & Historical Society, Inc.

JANUARY 1943

BERRY, Belva (Jordan)

Mrs. Belva Jordan Berry, 76, native of this county, died Thursday of last week at her home in Ashland after a brief illness. Mrs. Berry, widow of the late Dr. W. A. Berry was born at Yatesville, a daughter of the late Judge John J. and Martha Turman Jordan. She was married to Dr. Berry in 1887 and lived in Louisa for some time. She lived in Ashland the last 50 years. Mrs. Berry was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Ashland. Funeral was conducted in Ashland Sunday afternoon and interment made there. Mrs. A. O. Carter of Louisa attended the rites. Mrs. Berry is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Bess Berry Young, of Ashland and a brother, Marion Jordan of Miami, FL. Big Sandy News, Jan 8, 1943

BOGGS, Mary (Hammond)

Mrs. Mary Hammond Boggs, 29, wife of Russell Boggs of Beckley, WV, formerly of Louisa, died at a hospital in Beckley Jan 14 following an illness of 2 weeks. Mrs. Boggs, a native of Bowling Green, KY, is well known in Louisa where she and Mr. Boggs resided for a few years after their marriage. Mrs. Boggs was home economics instructor in the Louisa high school while they resided here. Mr. Boggs is a son of County Judge and Mrs. W. S. Boggs. They moved to Beckley about 6 years ago and Mr. Boggs has been bookkeeper for a coal company there since then. Mrs. Boggs was a teacher in the Beckley schools. Besides her parents, Mr. Boggs is survived by a son, Gordon, age 6. Big Sandy News, Jan 29, 1943

BRANHAM, Jack

Seaman First Class Jack Branham, son of Ned Branham of Louisa, is the first Lawrence county officially reported "killed in action" during the war. His father received a telegram from the Navy Department Dec 19 notifying him his son had been "killed in action in the performance of his duty and in the service of his country." Young Branham joined the Navy in October 1939, shortly after graduating from Louisa consolidated school. He was 21 at the time of his death. Big Sandy News, Jan 1, 1943

BRANHAM, Martha Belle (Roberts)

Mrs. Martha Belle Roberts Branham, 74, widow of the late John J. Branham of near Louisa, died at her home on Deephole Branch Wednesday evening. Mrs. Branham became suddenly ill Wednesday morning and succumbed at 7:30 p.m. that evening. Deceased was a daughter of the late Garner Reid Roberts and Mary Smith Roberts. She was born in the Deephole section near Louisa and had resided there practically all of her life. Mrs. Branham was a rural school teacher in Lawrence County for 20 years. Funeral will be conducted Friday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the Louisa Baptist Church with the pastor Rev. J. C. Hager, officiating and interment will be made in Pinehill Cemetery here. The body is at the Curtright Funeral Home. She is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. W. D. Sparks of Louisa and Lexington, and Miss Swanee Branham at home, and by one brother, Burnham Roberts of near Louisa. Her husband died in 1940. Big Sandy News, Jan 15, 1943

CLAY, Mont

Monterville B. Clay, 81, retired farmer of route 1, Rush, Boyd County, died Monday in an Ashland hospital. Deceased was a native of the Bolts Fork section. Funeral was conducted Wednesday and interment made in the Bolt cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Nancy Jane Clay, 1 daughter, Mrs. James Arnett of Ashland, 6 sons, Fred B. and Franklin T. Clay of Ashland, Jesse Clay at home, Robert Clay of Cannonsburg, Allen Clay of route 1, Rush and Alonzo Clay of Mansfield, OH. Big Sandy News, Jan 8, 1943

COMPTON, James Albert

James Albert Compton, 55 years old, of Warfield, KY, died at a hospital in Huntington Sunday. The body was buried in Dempsey Cemetery at Warfield Wednesday. Mr. Compton was an employee of the United Fuel Gas Co. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Pearl Compton and the following children: Forrest Compton, with the U. S. Army at Pearl Harbor, John Compton, with the Navy at Norfolk, VA, Jack Compton of Columbus, OH, James Compton, Jr. and Donald Compton of Warfield, Mrs. Jess Tramel and Miss Virginia Compton of Columbus, OH and Miss Imogene Compton at home. Big Sandy News, Jan 1, 1943

CRABTREE, Mary

Mary Crabtree, native of the Webbville section, died Jan 12 at her home in Columbus, OH. She is survived by her husband and 5 children. Big Sandy News, Jan 22, 1943

DAVIS, Charlie

Charlie Davis, 57, of the Deephole section, died Friday after an illness of a week. Mr. Davis, native of Carter City, KY, was an employee of the Inland Steel Company at Wheelright who moved his family to this county 4 months ago. He was a member of the Holiness Church. Funeral was conducted at the home Sunday by Rev. Roy Blevins and the body was taken next day in the Curtright funeral car to the home of his sister, Mrs. Lizzie Rice at Carter City and interred there. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Ellen King Davis of Olive Hill, his wife, Mrs. Tenie Wallen Davis, 1 stepdaughter, Miss Mable Sizemore, 3 sons, Casper, George and Russell, all of Detroit, 3 brothers, Robert of Elkhorn City, Harve of Olive Hill and John Davis of Carter City. Big Sandy News, Jan 8, 1943

DIXON, Nannie Ellen (Berry)

1857-1943

Mrs. Nannie Ellen Dixon, 85, died Jan 11 at the home of a daughter in Pikeville. Mrs. Dixon, the daughter of Alfred and Hannah Miller Berry, was born in Lawrence County, KY in 1857. She was one of ten children, all of which preceded her in death, except one brother, James Berry of Yatesville, KY. She was married to W. O. B. Dixon of Paintsville in 1876. To this union 2 children were born, Mrs. C. Norah Thornbury Hopkins of Pikeville. Mrs. Lorah Holbrook of Chesapeake, OH. Besides these 2 daughters, and 1 brother, she was survived by 14 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. At the age 17 she gave her heart to God under the preaching of the great pioneer preacher, Rev. Alfred Lunsford of Ohio. Rev. Lunsford was one the first, if not the first Christian preacher in the Eastern part of Kentucky. Mrs. Dixon was baptized by this pioneer minister in the waters of Blaine Creek, Lawrence county, KY when ice was on the water. At the death of her husband, 23 years ago, she moved to Pikeville, and made her home with her daughter, Mrs. C. Nora Thornbury Hopkins. the funeral services were held Jan 12 in the Christian Church and were conducted by Rev. T. B. Ashley assisted by Rev. Beckett and Rev. Howerton. There was a large group of friends and relatives present to honor the memory of Mrs. Dixon and the floral tributes were profuse and beautiful. The music by the Christian Church Choir was most consoling. Big Sandy News, Jan 29, 1943

ELSWICK, Dan

Daniel Elswick, 82, retired Lawrence County farmer died Saturday at the home of a grandson, Rev. John Hicks in Catlettsburg. He had been ill 3 weeks. Mr. Elswick was born and reared in the lower end of Lawrence County. He had lived in Catlettsburg the past 6 years. He had been a member of the Baptist Church for many years. Funeral was conducted Monday at the Freewill Baptist Church in Catlettsburg and interment made in the Williams Cemetery. He is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Melissa Wilks and Mrs. Geneva Wilks both of Webbville, route 1, Big Sandy News, Jan 29, 1943

ESTEP, Bessie (Carter)

1895-1943

Mrs. Bessie Carter Estep, 48, wife of Manuel Estep of Ashland, died Friday in King's Daughters' Hospital in Ashland several hours after giving birth to a daughter, who survives. Mrs. Estep was born at Adams, this county, Mar 6, 1895, a daughter of Richard and Ella Hayes Carter. She had resided in Ashland the past 26 years and was a member of the First Nazarene Church. Funeral was conducted in Ashland Sunday and interment made there. Surviving in addition to her husband are 8 sons, Harkless and Edward Estep, both of Ashland, William Estep, U. S. Army, Camp Atterbury, IN, Clyde, George, James, Wendell and Carl Estep, all at home, 2 daughters, Mrs. Clay Cooper and Alma Annyce Estep, both at home, a brother, William Cooper, Waynesburg, KY and a sister, Mrs. Morton Adams, Cannonsburg, KY. Big Sandy News, Jan 22, 1943

FERGUSON, Eska (Riggs)

Fort Gay, WV, Jan 2--Mrs. Eska Riggs Ferguson, 50, wife of Wayne Ferguson, of Fort Gay, route 1, died Thursday in a Louisa hospital after a brief illness. Deceased was a daughter of Mrs. Sarah Thompson Riggs of Fort Gay and the late M. D. Riggs. Surviving besides the husband and mother are 5 daughters, Mrs. Edward Finley, Ferguson, WV, Mrs. H. H. Simpkins, Huntington, WV, Misses Wanda, Betty and Glenna Ferguson, at home, 4 sons, Harold and Frank in the U. S. Army and Joe and William at home; 4 sisters, Mrs. Curtis Ferguson, Fort Gay, route 1, Mrs. Alton Fields, Williamson, WV, Mrs. Jay Dawson, Fort Gay and Mrs. Sidney Wilson, Springfield, OH and a brother, Hewlett Riggs, of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Jan 8, 1943

FREESE, Amanda  (Burgess)

Mrs. Amanda Burgess Freese, 88, perhaps the last surviving ex-slave in Lawrence County, died Saturday night at her home in Louisa. She had been ill six weeks. Deceased was the widow of Lewis Freese, who died in 1940. She was born at Gallup in 1855, and spent her girlhood there as a slave in the Burgess family. She remembered that during the Civil War when enemy raiders came through the Big Sandy Valley, member of the Burgess family tied a sac of gold upon her clothes as the safest place to hide it while the raiders were ransacking the place. Mrs. Freese had resided in Louisa the past 60 years. She had been a member of the Baptist Church for 50 years, and was a respected colored resident of the town. Funeral was conducted Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. from the home in Louisa and interment made in Pine Hill Cemetery here. She is survived by 1 son, Fred Freese of Louisa, 5 grandsons, Lewis Burgess Freese and Andrew Stewart Freese, both of Louisa, C. C. Johns, Jr., of Washington, D. C., Andrew Johns of Charleston, WV, and John H. Johns in the U. S. Army and one granddaughter, Alice A. Freese of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jan 22, 1943

FYFFE, George Harrison

George Harrison Fyffe, 70, native of this county and a retired coal miner, died Jan 7 in a Pikeville hospital. He was a son of the late George W. and Sofa King Fyffe of this county, and had resided in Pikeville the past three years. A brother, William Fyffe, of Coal Run, KY, survives. Big Sandy News, Jan 22, 1943

GREEN, Lucy (Ball)

Mrs. Lucy Ball Green, 60, widow of the late D. C. Green of Mattie, died Wednesday noon at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Leonard Adams at Irad. She had been ill about a week. Funeral will be conducted Friday morning at 11 a.m. from the home of another daughter, Mrs. Bert Moore at Mattie, with Rev. William W. Moore officiating and interment will be made in the family cemetery at Mattie. Deceased was born and reared at Mattie, a daughter of the late Green and Fannie Ball. She is survived by 6 daughters, Mrs. Roscoe Berry, Cordell, Mrs. Curtis Green, Columbus, OH, Mrs. Leonard Adams, Irad, Mrs. Joe Thompson, Ashland, Mrs. Bert Moore and Mrs. Everett Cantrell, Red Bush; 5 sons, Green and Roy Moore of Ashland, Thomas Moore and J. R. Green, both of Columbus, OH, and John W. Moore of Irad; 1 sister, Mrs. M. L. Wheeler of Ashland and 3 brothers, Green Ball of Ashland, and Jeff and Att Ball of Adams. Big Sandy News, Jan 22, 1943

GUSSLER, John L.

John L. Gussler, 62, native of this county and a resident of Huntington for 40 years, died Friday at his home there. His mother, Mrs. William Gussler, still lives in this county, as does a sister, Mrs. H. D. Carter. Funeral and interment took place in Huntington Sunday. Big Sandy News, Jan 15, 1943

HANNAH, Judge Jeff Bion

Judge Jeff Bion Hannah, 84, former Eastern Kentucky jurist and one time a judge of the Kentucky Court of Appeals died Friday of last week at his home in Leesburg, FL. Hannah, a native of Malden, WV, moved with his family to Grayson and eventually to Sandy Hook, Elliott county, where he read law in his father's office. The elder Hannah was also a doctor. Elected a circuit judge, Hannah served a number of terms, on the bench of Carter, Elliott, Boyd and Lawrence counties before being elected to the Court of Appeals, in which he served one term. Afterward, he retired and made his home in Leesburg for 17 years. Twelve years ago, he returned to Kentucky and became the senior member of the firm of Hannah, Van Sant and McKenzie of Ashland, a partnership which was dissolved a year ago after Campbell Van Sant became a commissioner of the appellate court. Hannah is survived by his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Henry Hannah, a native of Mount Sterling, a son, O. Bion Hannah, Frankfort, and a sister, Mrs. R. H. Van Sant, Frankfort. Big Sandy news, Jan 29, 1943

HAYES, Arta Corilda (Berry)

1856-1943

Mrs. Arta Corilda Hayes, 87, native Lawrence Countian and a former resident of Louisa, died Monday afternoon at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Lindsey Hayes, Thomas street, Ashland, 3 days after suffering a stroke. Mrs. Hayes had resided in Ashland with her daughter the past 18 months. Prior to that time she lived in Louisa with 3 of her other children. She was born at Adams, this county, a daughter of the late George A. Berry and Nancy Ball Berry, and had resided there until the death of her husband, James L. Hayes, 20 years ago. Mrs. Hayes had been a member of the Methodist Church for 67 years. Funeral rites were conducted in the First Methodist Church in Louisa Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. with Rev. L. D. Rounds and Rev. Sylvester Ball officiating and the body was taken in the Curtright funeral car to Adams for interment in the Berry Cemetery. Mrs. Hayes is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Lindsay Hayes of Ashland; Mrs. A. W. (Nancy) Hudson and Mrs. George (Susan) Cheek of Louisa, and three sons, Dr. Willie Hayes, John and Lee Hayes, all of Louisa, 22 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jan 29, 1943

HUTCHINSON, Frederick Eugene

Frederick Eugene Hutchinson, 2 day old son of Marvin and Garnet Perry Hutchinson of Houston, TX, died Dec 27 in a local hospital. Funeral was conducted Wednesday and burial was made in the Wellman Cemetery near Eloise. Surviving besides the parents are the maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Perry of near Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jan 1, 1943

KAZEE, Jack

Jack Kazee, 22, died Monday at his home at Blaine following an illness of 3 years. Funeral was conducted at the home Tuesday and interment was made in the Blaine Cemetery. A son of the late Lewis and Murtie Rule Kazee, he was born and reared at Blaine. He is survived by his mother, his wife, Mrs. Laura Wheeler Kazee, 2 sisters, Mrs. Ernest Boggs of Martha and Mrs. O. Murry of Ashland, and 2 brothers, John Kazee of Ashland and Scott Kazee of Blaine. big Sandy News, Jan 15, 1943

KIRKPATRICK, W. H.

Fort Gay, WV. Jan 20,--W. H. Kirkpatrick, 74, former mayor of Fort Gay and a resident of the town for nearly 20 years, died Friday at his home at Delbarton, WV. Mr. Kirkpatrick, who was a retired mine foreman, moved back to Delbarton a few years ago. He came to Fort Gay in the early 20's and operated a hotel and grocery store. He served as mayor from 1933 to 1937. He was a member of the Baptist church. Funeral was conducted at Delbarton Sunday by Rev. Wilbur Estep and interment was made there. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Florence O'Brian; a daughter, Mrs. Gertrude Ratcliff of Delbarton, 3 brothers, Robert Kirkpatrick of Fort Gay, Sam Kirkpatrick of Oakdale, WV and James Kirkpatrick of Ironton, OH and 2 sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Crane of Paintsville, KY and Mrs. Mary Crane. Big Sandy News, Jan 22, 1943

MARCUM, Emma (Carter)

Mrs. Emma Carter Marcum, 72, died Wednesday at her home in Catlettsburg. She was the widow of Henry Marcum and was born in Lawrence County, a daughter of Dave and Polly Joe Carter. She moved with her family to Catlettsburg in 1911 and was a member of the Catlettsburg Methodist Church. Surviving are 2 sons, Walter Marcum of Ashland and Jas. V. Marcum of Columbus, OH; 3 daughters, Mrs. Bertha Harmon of Catlettsburg and Mrs. Georgia Burton and Mrs. Mary Hignite of Ashland, 1 sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Kitchen of Catlettsburg and 11 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jan 15, 1943

MAY, Julia (Mayo)

Prestonsburg, KY--Mrs. Julia Mayo May, wife of Congressman A. J. (Jack) May, died Sunday at her home in Prestonsburg, the day after her 64the birthday. She had been ill 2 years and recently was returned to her home on a special C & O train from Washington. She was a daughter of Mrs. Ann Porter Mayo who still resides on the Mayo farm in Floyd County and the late J. D. Mayo. She was prominent in Prestonsburg church work and was a charter member of the Prestonsburg chapter D. A. R. being a direct descendent of Gen. John Graham, Revolutionary War hero. Big Sandy News, Jan 1, 1943

MEEK, Jesse Andrew

Jesse Andrew Meek, 61, native of Busseyville section of this county, died Jan 10 at his home in Whitesboro, TX following a prolonged illness. A son of Mr. and Mrs. Felix Meek he was born at Busseyville, May 11, 1881, and moved to Texas in 1901. From the standpoint of years of service he was the oldest blacksmith in Whitesboro, TX, having followed the trade there 25 years. Funeral was conducted at the Robertson Memorial Methodist Church there Monday, Jan 11 with the pastor, Rev. A. Travis, officiating, and interment was made in the Oakwood cemetery there. He is survived by his father, Felix Meek, by 2 brothers, Amos  and Green Meek, by his wife, and 3 grown children. Big Sandy News, Jan 29, 1943

MILES, Hester Jane (Castle)

Mrs. Hester Jane Miles, 36, daughter of Carl and Missouri Boyd Castle of this county, died Saturday at her home in Catlettsburg after an illness of 1 year. She is survived by her husband, Donald Miles, 1 son, Jack, at home, 5 brothers, Will, George, John, Leslie and Ben Castle, all of Catlettsburg, 2 sisters, Mrs. Hazel Bell, Richardson and Mrs. L. B. Mullins of Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, Jan 15, 1943

NAPIER, Edmund

Edmund Napier, 59, native of Wayne County and a retired school teacher, died Saturday at the home of a son, Morgan Napier, in Williamson, He was a son of Alfred and Cynthia Adkins Napier, and married Ann Napier of Wayne. Funeral was conducted in a Williamson Church Sunday and the body was brought to Dunlow for burial. Big Sandy News, Jan 22, 1943

PARSLEY, James

James Parsley, 37, an employee of the Crystal Block Coal & Coke Company at Rawl, WV, died Friday of injuries he received Jan 7 while at work. He was born at Naugatuck, a son of Mr. and Mrs. David Parsley. The funeral was conducted Monday at the Parsley family cemetery in Martin County. Big Sandy News, Jan 22, 1943

QUEEN, William H.

1855-1943

William H. Queen, 88, retired farmer, died Friday morning at the home of a son, Den Queen on the Mayo Trail near Trace in Boyd County. Funeral was conducted Sunday in the East Fork Methodist Church with Rev. E. E. Ashley and Rev. Bryan Edmons officiating and interment was made in the family cemetery. Mr. Queen was born Oct 3, 1855 in Lawrence county, the son of the late Walter Scott Queen and Virginia Riffe queen. He had been a resident of Boyd County for a long period of years. Mr. Queen was a member of the East Fork Methodist Church and of the Green Hill Masonic Lodge of Bolt's Fork. Surviving are 3 sons, Den Queen with whom he made his home, Levi of Rush, KY and Harve of Ashland, 3 daughters, Mrs. C. D. Prichard and Mrs. McKinley Harris both of route 1, Catlettsburg and Mrs. Oakley Brown of Detroit, MI, 3 brothers, Jay Queen of Louisa route 4, Jim Queen of Greenup, KY and Frank Queen of Ashland, 21 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. His wife, preceded him in death on Jan 2, 1941. Big Sandy News, Jan 15, 1943

RIGGS, Cordelia (Hatfrield)

Mrs. Cordelia Riggs, 65, died Sunday night at her home at Centerville, Wayne County, WV. She was the wife of William Riggs and brother of Peter and William Hatfield of Prichard, and mother of Mrs. Susan Lewis of Prichard. Big Sandy News, Jan 1, 1943

SALYER, Emery Kay

Emery Kay Salyer, 2 months old son of Mr. and Mrs. Chester Salyer of Chillicothe, OH, formerly of this county died Jan 9. Big Sandy News, Jan 22, 1943

SEXTON, Jesse

Jesse Sexton, 74, native of this county and an employee of the Waite Furniture Company in Portsmouth, OH for several years, died Sunday at his home in Portsmouth of a sudden heart attack. Deceased was born in this county a son of Harvey and Sidney Houck Sexton. He moved to Carter, KY in 1914 and moved from there to Portsmouth in 1918. His wife, Lilly Ann Prince, died in 1935. Big Sandy News, Jan 15, 1943

STAPLETON, Samuel

1888-1942

Samuel Stapleton, 54, Chesapeake & Ohio Railway freight clerk at Richardson, died at his home there Thursday evening of last week. He had been ill 2 weeks. Funeral services held Sunday morning at 11 a.m. at the Baptist Church at Richardson, with Rev. German Walters and Rev. Ide Preston officiating, and interment was made there under direction of the Curtright Funeral Home. Mr. Stapleton was born at Mingo, KY, a son of the late Ross and Elizabeth Arrowood Stapleton. He lived at Richardson for 18 years, and had served as freight clerk at the Richardson station for 7 years. He was a member of IOOF lodge. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Julia Borders Stapleton, 3 daughters, Mrs. Walter Henderson, Graves Knobb, KY, Mrs. Mae Meek, Richardson, KY and Miss Neva Stapleton, at home; 1 son, Clarence Stapleton, at home, 1 sister, Mrs. John Travis, of Tutor Key, KY and 2 brothers, Millard and William Stapleton, of Estill, KY. Big Sandy News, Jan 1, 1943

SWITZER, Mary Belle (Chaffin)

Fort Gay, WV, Jan 14--Mrs. Mary Belle Switzer, 77, widow of the late George Switzer, died Monday at 1:30 a.m. at her home here. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. at the home with Rev. Enos Scraggs officiating and interment will be made in the Wellman Cemetery 2 miles east of Fort Gay. Mrs. Switzer, a daughter of the late Thomas and Rhoda Billups Chaffin, was born and reared near Fort Gay. She lived at Lodi, OH until the death of her husband 20 years ago, moving back to Fort Gay. She was a member of the Little Hurricane Methodist Church. She is survived by 2 sisters, Mrs. Noah Wellman of Wayne, WV and Mrs. Victoria Burris of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Jan 15, 1943

VINSON, Matilda M. (Chapman)

Mrs. Matilda M. Vinson, 79, of Webb, Wayne County, died Thursday, of last week at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Martha Anne Meadows of West Williamson. Deceased was born Aug 21, 1863. She was the widow of William Vinson who died in 1908, and a member of the pioneer Wayne county, farming family. She resided at Webb for the past 50 years and was removed to the home of her daughter, 3 weeks ago, after she had complained of being indisposed. Mrs. Vinson was a staunch member of the Baptist Church. Surviving besides the daughter, Mrs. Meadows, are the following children, Filmore, Wallace, Minzie, Monzola, Burthen, L. D. and Harrison. Several grandchildren, a brother, Marion Chapman and sister, Mrs. Martha Davis, both of Naugatuck, also survive. Funeral services were held at the Copley Cemetery at Webb Saturday. Big Sandy News, Jan 29, 1943

WALKER, Georgia Ann

Mrs. Georgia Ann Walker, 77, of Ashland, died Friday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. W. P. Barton of Pedro, OH. She was born in Wayne County, WV and was the sister of Aley Thompson and Mrs. Jane Thompson of Glenhayes, WV. Burial was in Ashland. Big Sandy News, Jan 29, 1943

FEBRUARY 1943

ARTRIP, Delbert

Delbert Artrip, 4 months old son of Mr. and Mrs. Arvil Artrip, died at the Artrip home on Paddle Creek, Fort Gay, route 1, Monday afternoon. Funeral was conducted Wednesday at the home and interment made in the family cemetery. Surviving besides the parents are a brother and sister. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

BERNARD, Charles

Charles Bernard, 72, died Saturday morning at his home near Potters following an illness of two months. He was a son of the late Ira and Mary Mills Bernard and was born and reared in the Tow Mile Section near Louisa. Funeral was conducted Monday at the home. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Melissa Bernard, one son, John J. Bernard of Louisa, one brother, James Bernard of Martha, WV and one sister, Mrs. Beckie Young of Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

BLEVINS, William D.

Second Lieutenant William D. Blevins, 22, bombardier in the U. S. Army Air Force and a native of the Webbville section, was killed Tuesday of this week in a plane crash at Avon Park, FL, according to a War Department message received Wednesday by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Carson Blevins, now of Ashland. No details of the accident were given. Lieut. Blevins enlisted in the Air Force in January 1941 shortly after graduating from Ashland Junior College. He was born near Webbville. He is a grandson of Mr. R. F. Blevins of Webbville. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

BROWN, Hattie

Hattie Brown, 45, a lifelong invalid, died Saturday at the home of her sister, Mrs. James Rowe near Potter. She was a daughter of William and Minnie Borders Brown and was born at Ulysses. Funeral was conducted from the Rowe home Monday afternoon and interment made in the family cemetery. Besides Mrs. Rowe, she is survived by 2 other sisters, Mrs. Kenis Hatfield, Lowmansville and Mrs. Maude Hellier of Ohio and 3 brothers, Lonzo Brown, Lowmansville, Charles of Sciotoville, OH and Scott of Lucasville, OH. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

CHAFFIN, B. J.

J. Chaffin, 71, one of Louisa's most respected citizens, dropped dead Monday morning at 6:40 at Kermit, WV. Mr. Chaffin, a salesman for Sehon-Stevenson & Co of Huntington visited the Tug river section each Monday and Tuesday, and went to Kermit Sunday afternoon in order to start from there early Monday. He was starting for his automobile after eating breakfast and dropped dead after leaving a boarding house. The body was returned to Louisa in the Curtright funeral car. Funeral was conducted in Louisa Methodist Church, where he had worshipped regularly for many years. Thursday afternoon, with the pastor, Rev. Leslie Rogers and Rev. C. L. Neff, officiating. Mr. Chaffin was born and reared at Yatesville and was a son of George W. and Margaret Short Chaffin, pioneer citizens, but had lived in Louisa most of his life. He had traveled for Sehon-Stevenson & Co for more than a quarter of a century and earlier had traveled for the Goldcamp Milling Co. of Ironton, OH. He was widely known throughout the Big Sandy section. As a young man he taught a number of rural schools in this county, and for a time was associated with his brother in law, the late G. J. Carter, in the general merchandise business at Yatesville before moving to Louisa. He had long been a member of the Louisa Methodist Church and was a regular attending member of the Men's Bible class of the church. He was also a member of the board of stewards of the church. Also he was a member of the Louisa Masonic Lodge. He was instrumental in organizing the Lobaco Company and the Big Sandy Commercial Bank in Louisa. He served as vice-president of the Lobaco Company and fro a time was assistant cashier of the Big Sandy Commercial Bank. Mr. Chaffin is survived by his wife, Mrs. Emaline Carter Chaffin to whom he had been married 49 years, 1 daughter, Mrs. John W. McNabb of Louisa, 1 son, Hubert Chaffin of Grayson, who is stationed in the U. S. Navy at Williamsburg, VA; 2 sisters, Mrs. Frank Bradley of Yatesville and Mrs. Emma Chaffin of Ashland and 2 grandchildren, Bill Jim and John Wilson McNabb of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

COOPER, Historia Elizabeth (Wheeler)

1858-1943

Mrs. Historia Elizabeth Wheeler Cooper, 85, who for the past 13 years had made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Earl Kotcamp in Greenup, died Thursday of last week. Her death followed an extended illness and was attributed to a complication of diseases and the infirmities of age. She was born at Blaine in Lawrence county, Aug 20, 1858 and was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. James Wheeler, pioneer resident of Eastern Kentucky. On Nov 10, 1878, she was united in married to Andrew T. Cooper and to this happy and mutual union was born 8 children, five of whom survived the aged mother. Her husband died Apr 10, 1935. Mrs. Cooper was a lifelong member of the Baptist Church and attended services regularly. She is survived by 4 daughters and 1 son, Mrs. Lester Winters of Buena Vista, OH, Mrs. Belva May of Greenup, Jesse R. Cooper of Portsmouth, OH, Mrs. Izzie Hale of Lynn and Mrs. Ella Kotcamp of Greenup, 4 brothers, Jesse, James, Jilson and John Wheeler all of Washington state. The funeral services were conducted Sunday afternoon at the Kotcamp home in Greenup. The Rev. Ben Hunt officiated at the last rites. Burial was made in the Riverview Cemetery at Greenup. Big Sandy News, Feb 19, 1943

COPLEY, Palmer

Fort Gay, WV, Feb 24--Palmer Copley, 40, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Copley, Fort Gay, died suddenly at Rittman, OH, Saturday night, Feb 20 from a heart attack while attending church services. He had been suffering from a heart ailment for a year and this was his first attendance at church for several months. His body was brought to the home of his parents in Fort Gay on No. 16 Monday, Feb 22. He is survived by his wife and 2 children, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Copley of Fort Gay; 1 brother, Dallas Copley of the Navy, 3 sisters, Mrs. Lima Noe of Ceredo, WV, Mrs. Leafy Snyder of Chatteroy, WV and Ethel Copley. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

DEREFIELD, Esa Belle (Roberts)

Mrs. Esa Belle Roberts Derefield, 60, widow of the late Enos Derefield, died Monday on Irish Creek. Funeral was conducted Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. at the home of the son. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

FIELDS, Rose

Miss Rose Fields, 68, native of the East Fork section, died Monday at the home of a nephew, John Hogan of East Fork. She was a daughter of the late Anderson and Lucinda Manis Fields and was a member of the East Fork Methodist Church. Funeral was conducted at the East Fork church Wednesday. Big Sandy News, Feb 19, 1943

GARRED, Jennie (Elam)

1873-1943

Mrs. Jennie Elam Garred, 79, wife of Lee A. Garred, of Louisa, route 1, died unexpectedly Monday morning at the home of her son, Dr. I. M. Garred in Morehead. Mrs. Garred, who had been in failing health for several months, had gone to the home of her son in Morehead a week earlier to received medical treatment. A pioneer citizen of the county, Mrs. Garred was born and reared at Louisa, a daughter of the late Matthew McClure Elam and Emma Grant Botner Elam. She had been a member of the Methodist Church since girlhood. She formerly was a rural school teacher. She was married to Mr. Garred, scion of another pioneer family, in 1893. Had she lived until July they would have been married 50 years. Funeral services was conducted at the Garred home 10 miles south of Louisa on Mayo Trail Thursday afternoon with Rev. Leslie Rogers, pastor of the Louisa Methodist Church officiating. A large assemblage, including many people from other towns, attended the rites. Mrs. Garred is survived by her husband, 4 sons, all physicians, Major M. D. Garred, former orthopedic surgeon of Ashland, who now is serving in the Army at Abilene, TX; Capt. E. W. Garred, formerly of Louisa, stationed in the Army at Fort McClellan, AL, Dr. U. V. Garred of Ashland, and Dr. I. M. Garred of Morehead; 4 daughters, Mrs. Rice K. Brailey and Mrs. Nancy Denues, both of Ashland, Mrs. L. C. Richmond of Milton, WV and Mrs. Lonzo Arrington, of Louisa, route 4, a sister, Mrs. M. L. Burgess of Louisa, route 1, and 3 brothers, Oliver M. Elam of Ashland, Dr.  Arthur M. Elam of Lexington, KY and Dr. Botner P. Elam of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

GRIFFITH, Lafe

Lafe Griffith, 54, native of the Blaine section, died Monday at his home in Reynoldsburg, OH. Mr. Griffith was born and raised in this county, a son of Mr. and Mrs. R. L. Griffith. He moved to Ohio 20 years ago and had been supervisor for several years of a country club called the Wigwam at Reynoldsburg, owned by the Wolf banking and newspaper family of Columbus. Funeral was conducted Wednesday in Reynoldsburg and interment was made there. Mr. Griffith is survived by his wife, Mrs. Cora Lyon Griffith, a son, Russell Griffith in the U. S. Army, 2 daughters, Pauline and Hazel, both married, 3 brothers, Henderson, George and Curt Griffith all of Reynoldsburg and 5 sisters, Mrs. W. F. Fyffe of Louisa, Mrs. Nelson Sparks of Martha, Mrs. George Sturgell and Mrs. Corbett Stambaugh, both of Reynoldsburg and Mrs. W. L. Stambaugh of Circleville, OH. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

HALE, Mary E. (Loar)

Mrs. Mary E. Hale, 63, widow of the late Rail Hale, died Monday shortly after noon at her home in Louisa. She had been ill since Thanksgiving. Funeral was conducted at the home Wednesday afternoon with Rev. J. C.  Hager, pastor of the Baptist Church, officiating and the body was taken to Fort Gay for interment in the Beaire Cemetery. Deceased was a daughter of the late James and Harriet Harris Loar and was born and reared in Fort Gay. She had been a lifelong member of the Methodist church. Surviving are 2 sisters, Mrs. Will Hale, Cincinnati, OH and Miss Bertha Loar of Huntington, WV, and 2 brothers, Willie Loar of Fort Gay and Taylor Loar of Gary, IN. Her husband, died 26 years ago. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

HAMPTON, Nora (Clay)

Mrs. Nora Clay Hampton, 52, widow of the late Berth Hampton of Louisa, died Tuesday at 5 p.m. at the Hampton home on Lower Lock Avenue here. She had been ill for nearly 6 years. Funeral will be conducted Friday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Louisa Baptist Church with the pastor, Rev. J. C. Hager, officiating and interment will be made in the Bolt Cemetery at Bolt's Fork. Mrs. Hampton was born and reared on Bear Creek, a daughter of the late William and Ida Newman Clay. She had lived in Louisa the past 40 years. Her husband, the late Bert Hampton, a veteran of the Spanish-American War, was killed while serving at night patrolman in Louisa 7 years ago. Mrs. Hampton had been a member of the Baptist Church since girlhood. She is survived by 3 daughters, Willa, Helen and Ida, all at home, 3 sons, Carl Clay Hampton, a private in the Marine Corps at San Diego, CA, Wesley Hampton of Tampa, FL, and Wayne Clay Hampton at home; 3 sisters, Mrs. Emory Kirk of Cannonsburg, KY, Mrs. Lester Lovely and Mrs. Ersel Roberts, both of Louisa and 2 brothers, Denver C. Clay, Columbus, OH and Virgil Clay of Ona, WV. Big Sandy news, Feb 26, 1943

HARDWICK, Georgie

1861-1943

Mrs. Georgie Hardwick, 81, died Tuesday, Feb 17 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Bert Fugett of Nolan. Funeral services were held Wednesday and burial was in the Chambers Cemetery at the head of Mill Creek. Mrs. Hardwick was born Aug 19, 1861. She was a member of the Church of Christ at Radnor. She was preceded in death by her husband, the late James Hardwick. Surviving in addition to Mrs. Fugett, is another daughter, Mrs. C. T. Pratt of Wayne; 4 sons, Edward and George Hardwick of Fort Gay and Colonel and Luther Hardwick of Grassy; 33 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

JOHNSON, Nancy Sue (Cummings)

Mrs. Nancy Sue Cummings Johnson, 38, wife of John M. Johnson and a native of Louisa, died Sunday morning in a hospital in Statesville, NC where  she had been a patient for one week. She had been in failing health 2 years. A daughter of John H. Cummings, Louisa grocer, and the late Ida Billups Cummings. Mrs. Johnson was born and reared in Louis. She had been a member of the Louisa First Methodist church since girlhood. The body was returned here Tuesday and funeral service, was conducted at the Curtright Funeral Home Wednesday afternoon with Rev. L. D. Rounds, pastor of the First Methodist Church, officiating, Interment, which was made in Pinehill Cemetery here, was delayed until Thursday until the arrival of her only son, John Manley Johnson, stationed in the Navy at Miami, FL. Since her marriage, Mrs. Johnson had resided in Winston Salem, NC until moving to Statesville, NC, 2 years ago. Her husband owned an insurance business there. Besides her father and husband, she is survived by 3 daughters, Nancy Sue, Ida Jean and Margaret Ann, all at home, and 1 son, John Manley of the U. s. Navy and a brother, John W. Cummings. Big Sandy news, Feb 5, 1943

KANE, Josephine Nancy (Slone)

Mrs. Josephine Nancy Kane, 84, widow of the late W. T. Kane, of near Fallsburg, died Friday afternoon in the Beaver Valley hospital at Martin of injuries to her hip sustained two weeks before when she fell at the home of her son, John Kane at Allen. Mrs. Kane went to Allen to live with her son 7 months ago. Short funeral rites were conducted Saturday evening at 8 p.m. at Allen and the body was brought to the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa where funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. Interment was made in the Kane family cemetery near Fallsburg. Mrs. Kane was born in Ohio, a daughter of Eli and Elizabeth Ackley Slone, but had lived on a farm near Fallsburg practically all her life. Her husband, died 27 years ago. She is survived by one son, John Kane, Allen, KY, and 3 brothers, E. C. Slone, Albia, IA, Charles E. Slone, Vancouver, British Columbia and Milton C. Slone, Galena, OH. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

LYNCH, Burrel

Fort Gay, WV, Feb 10--Burrel Lynch, 83, retired Wayne county farmer, died Monday afternoon at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Charles Raines of the Paddle Creek section. He had been ill 5 years. Funeral rites will be conducted Sunday morning at 10:30 from the Bartram Chapel on Mill Creek with Rev. Enos Scraggs officiating. The funeral is being delayed to await the arrival of a son, Edgar Lynch from his post in the Army at Camp Beale, CA. Deceased was born at Grayson, KY, a son of Fenner and Darkas Bowe Lynch. He had lived in Wayne county the past 50 years and was a member of the Methodist Church. Surviving are 2 daughters, Mrs. Raines and Mrs. Bertha Crabtree of Yatesville, KY; 4 sons, Charles and Wayne Lynch of Fort Gay, route 2, Edgar Lynch, U. s. Army at Camp Beale, CA and Luther Lynch, address unknown; 1 sister, Mrs. Sarah Ratcliff and 1 brother, John Lynch, Salt Petre, WV. His wife, Mrs. Nancy Copley Lynch, died in 1931. Big Sandy News, Feb 12, 1943

MCCOWN, Minnie (Thompson)

1878-1943

Mrs. Minnie Thompson McCown, 65, wife of Lee McCown, and a native of this county, died at the McCown home in Ashland, Saturday. Mrs. McCown was born Jan 2, 1878, in Lawrence County, a daughter of A. J. and Mary Jane Spencer Thompson, both of Lawrence County. She was a member of the Evergreen Methodist Church at Busseyville since the age of 13. Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Monday in the South Ashland Methodist Church with the Rev. J.L. Layne, pastor, officiating and assisted by Rev. S. W. Funk, Catlettsburg. Surviving in addition to the husband are a daughter, Mrs. Fred B. Moore, Ashland, a grandson, Milburn Lionel Moore, Ashland, 2 brothers, W. K. Thompson, Louisa and John B. Thompson, Huntington, WV, 3 sisters, Mrs. Tilda Burton, Louisa, Mrs. Jerry Williams, Beckley, WV and Mrs. J. C. Plummer, Ashland. Big Sandy News, Feb 19, 1943

MCCOY, Manona (Miller)

Mrs. Manona McCoy, died at home at Prichard, route 2, Feb 16. Funeral services were conducted Friday at the Central Methodist Church in Huntington. Burial was in Woodmere Cemetery. Mrs. McCoy is survived by her husband, W. A. McCoy, 3 sons, Horace, Troy Hayes and W. Raymond McCoy, all of Huntington; a daughter, Kathryne McCoy, at home; 2 sisters, Mrs. Kate Ray and Mrs. G. W. Hatfield of Williamson, a brother, Charles Miller of Logan; 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Big Sandy news, Feb 26, 1943

MEADE, Frances

Miss Frances Meade, 70, lifelong resident of Lawrence County, died Friday night at the home of L. A. Garred of Louisa, route 1, where she had make her home for many years. She had suffered a stroke 2 weeks before. Funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon at 2:30 at the Garred home, 9 miles above Louisa, on the Mayo Trail and interment made in the Garred Cemetery. Deceased was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Meade. Her parents died when she and her sister Miss Ardelia Meade were very young and they were raised in the Garred home. She is survived by the sister. She had been a member of the Methodist Church for 40 years. Big Sandy News, Feb 19, 1943

MEADE, Stella (Castle)

Mrs. Stella Castle Meade, 39, wife of Thomas S. Meade, died at the Meade home in Louisa Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. Mrs. Meade was a daughter of the late Daniel Castle and Mrs. Julia Segraves Miller of Louisa and was born and reared at Martha. Funeral will be conducted from the home Friday morning at 10 a.m. with Rev. William W. Moore officiating and interment will be made in the Wellman cemetery near Walbridge.
Besides the husband, she is survived by 3 sons, Pvt. Thomas S. Meade, Jr., serving with the U. S. Army in North Africa, Seaman Eugene V. Meade of the U. S. Army, somewhere at sea, and Ronald at home, 3 daughters, Mrs. Roy Mullins, Louisa, Mrs. Ed Newsome, route 3, Louisa, and Miss Shirley at home; 3 sisters, Mrs. H. C. Brown, Ashland, Mrs. Proctor Rowland, Louisa, and Mrs. Curtis Meade, Whitehouse, and 1 brother, Thurman Castle of Burdine, KY. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

MEADOWS, Emma (Harless)

1861-1943

Mrs. Emma Harless Meadows, 82, pioneer citizen of Martin County, died Saturday Jan 30 at her home in Inez. Mrs. Meadows was the wife of Jerry Meadows and was a daughter of the late John and Edith Lilley Harless, early settlers of Eastern Kentucky. She was a member of the Baptist Church, having been baptized by Elder Floyd Kirk. Born Sep 17, 1861, Mrs. Meadows was 82 years, 4 months and 13 days old at her death. Mrs. Meadows continued through life the pioneer methods she learned in early life. She made her own blankets and coverlets, and for years after she was married she continued cooking at on open fireplace the old fashioned way. Her home was always open to travelers and she was a friend indeed to the sick and bereaved. She was the mother of 3 children. Two preceded her in death. The survivor is John Meadows, merchant and postmaster at Debord. Also surviving are 5 grandchildren and a sister, Mrs. Susie Cornett of Inez. Mrs. Meadows was buried in a casket which she had a local carpenter to make 10 years ago. Rev. William H. Preece and Floyd Kirk conducted the funeral rites at the home and the body was laid to rest in the family cemetery. Big Sandy News, Feb 19, 1943

MICHAELS, James Harvey

James Harvey Michaels, 83, of Prichard, WV, route 1, died at his home in Wayne County, WV Tuesday. Funeral was conducted at the Shilo Church on Elijah's Creek Thursday morning with Rev. Henry Mullens officiating. He is survived by his sister, Mrs. Butler Davis of Prichard, a brother, Lon Michaels of Ceredo, 5 sons, William, Fort Gay, James, Denver and Walter all of Prichard and Charles of Kenova. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

MILLS, Ira

Ill for the past year, Ira Mills, 67, of 36th and Lark Street, Catlettsburg, died last Thursday morning. Mr. Mills was a native of Lawrence County, son of the late John M. and Sarah Barnett Mills. He had been a resident of Catlettsburg since 1921 and had followed the trade of blacksmith until ill health forced his retirement a year ago. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Laura Newsom Mills, one daughter, Mrs. Vernie Boyd of Catlettsburg and 3 sons, James and John of Catlettsburg and Ed of the United States Army, stationed in Florida, and 18 grandchildren. Big Sandy news, Feb 5, 1943

MOORE, Gerald

Gerald Moore, 6 months old son of Mr. and Mrs. Russell Moore of Columbus, OH, died Feb 11 of pneumonia. The body was returned to this county and funeral was conducted Saturday at the Evergreen Church and interment made in the Burton Cemetery. Surviving besides the parents are the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Moore of Columbus and Mr. and Mrs. Freelin Blackburn of Louisa, route 1. Big Sandy News, Feb 19, 1943

PENNINGTON, Lutie Belle (Wellman)

Fort Gay, WV, Feb 25, Mrs. Lutie Belle Pennington, 26, wife of Elbert Pennington, of Fort Gay route 1, died Wednesday morning at the Pennington home on Tabors Creek, a few miles from Fort Gay. Deceased was a daughter of George and Bird Akers Wellman and was born and reared on Tabors Creek. Funeral will be conducted Friday morning at 10:30 a.m. and interment made in the Wellman Cemetery. Besides the husband and parents she is survived by 2 children; 4 sisters, Mrs. Floyd Pennington, Huntington, Mrs. Kelly Castle, Baltimore, MD, Mrs. Jack Carroll, Detroit, MI and Miss Mildred Wellman at home and 7 brothers, Fred, Floyd, John, Frank and Claude Wellman all of Fort Gay, route 1, George of Chesapeake, OH and Carl of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

POTTER, Isaac

Isaac Potter, 71, Greenup County farmer, died at his home in Greenup county Jan 22 after an illness of several months. Mr. Potter was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Potter of Catalpa, this county. Funeral was conducted at the Quillen cemetery in Greenup county with Rev. Johnson officiating. Mr. Potter is survived by 2 brothers, Martin and K. C. Potter of Catalpa, 3 sisters, Mrs. Lettie Burke, of Louisa, Mrs. Cassie Vanover of Burdine, KY and Mrs. Mary Newsome of Beaver, OH, by his wife, 2 daughters, Mrs. Marie Osborn and Miss Margie Potter of Troy, OH and 7 sons, Ernest and Leslie of Lynn, KY, Vernon and William of Troy, OH, Charles of Niagara Falls, NY, Daniel with the U. S. Army overseas, and Coleman stationed in the U. S. Army at Omaha, NB. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

REYNOLDS, Dr. J. F.

Funeral rites for Dr. J. F. Reynolds, 77, who died at his home in Mt. Sterling Wednesday night, will be held in the Louisa Baptist Church Friday afternoon at 2 p.m. and interment will be made in a cemetery at Fort Gay, WV. Dr. Reynolds, a son of Silas F. and Elizabeth Wellman Reynolds, was born on a farm near Fort Gay. He studied medicine in Louisville and practiced as a general physician in Louisa until moving to Mt. Sterling 45 years ago. After leaving Louisa he studied as a special of eye, ear, nose and throat diseases and opened an office in Mt. Sterling where he had practiced since. He is survived by his wife, a son, Franklin, a lawyer in Mt. Sterling, 2 daughters, Mrs. Keith Marshall of Louisville and Miss Elizabeth Reynolds at home. he was a brother of the late Dr. J. H. Reynolds, Louisa druggist. Big Sandy news, Feb 12, 1943

Funeral services for Dr. J. Frank Reynolds, 77, who died Feb 10 at his home in Mt. Sterling, was conducted in the First Baptist Church in Louisa last Friday afternoon. Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the church, and Rev. Thompson of Mt. Sterling, conducted the service and a large assemblage, including many from other towns, attended. A brief service was conducted in Mt. Sterling Thursday. Interment was made in Fairview Cemetery at Fort Gay. Dr. Reynolds is survived by three brothers, Barney Reynolds of Logan, WV, Ed Reynolds of Fort Gay and Benton Reynolds of Welch, WV, and by 4 sisters, Mrs. Frank Vinson of Louisa, Mrs. C. M. Crutcher and Mrs. J. M. Bromley of Huntington and Mrs. Perkins Ellis of Manteo, VA. Also surviving are one son, and 2 daughters, Sergeant Franklin Reynolds of the Marine recruiting station in Louisville, Mrs. B. Keith Marshall of Louisville and Miss Elizabeth Ann Reynolds of Mt. Sterling.  Big Sandy news, Feb 19, 1943

SEE, Mrs. George

Mrs. George See, 70, native of Louisa, died Jan 26, at her home in a suburb of Seattle, WA. Mrs. See was born and reared in Louisa, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ike Dawson. She moved to Seattle, WA with her husband in 1889 and settled in what is known as the Freemont District. She was one of the oldest residents of that district and for the past few years had lived just outside the city on a small farm. She was affectionately known as "Aunt Tuck" and maintained until the very last hat Southern hospitality in her home and a happy disposition. She is survived by her husband, 1 son, Frank See, 2 daughters, Mrs. Frank (Lena) Freeman and Mrs. Harry (Jessie) Leonard and 3 grandchildren, Corporal Jack Freeman, Mrs. Karl Welland and Mrs. George Grant all of Seattle. Funeral was conducted in Seattle and interment made there. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

SISSON, Dr. R. R.

1898-1943

Dr. R. R. Sisson, 45, prominent physician of Kitzmiller, MD, and son in law of Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Marcum, Sr. of Louisa, dropped dead Sunday morning at his home in Kitzmiller. Short funeral service was conducted at the home in Kitzmiller Monday afternoon, and the body was brought to Louisa in the Curtright funeral car. Funeral rites were conducted in the Louisa Christian Church Wednesday afternoon with Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. William W. Moore, officiating and interment was made in Pinehill Cemetery here. The body lay in state at the Curtright Funeral Home here until an hour before the church service. Dr. Sisson was married to Miss Fadana Marcum of Louisa in 1927 and had visited here frequently and was well known here. He was born  Feb 23, 1898 in Richmond, VA. He received his M. D. degree from the Virginia Medical College in Richmond and practiced at Galloway, WV for 2 years before locating in Kitzmiller, MD, 8 years ago. He was a member of the Christian Church, the West Virginia Medical Association and American Medical Association. Besides his wife, he is survived by 4 sisters, Mrs. Mary Faircloth and Miss Catharine Sisson, both of Washington, D.C., Mrs. Lucille Seifert, New York, NY, and Mrs. Clementine Gault, Beckley, WV, and 3 brothers, Dr. N. W. Sisson, East Orange, NJ, Zach Sisson, Norfolk, VA and W. J. Sisson, Beckley, WV. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

STUART, Ellis

Ellis Harmon Stuart, 91, aged citizen and farmer of the Catt section, died Sunday afternoon at 4 p.m. at his home near Cadmus. He had been ill since suffering a stroke 3 years ago. Mr. Stuart, one of the county's oldest citizens, was born in Scott Co., VA and came to Lawrence County at the age of 14 with his parents, Dale C. and Barbara Booth Stuart, walking the entire distance. One of the county's substantial and respected citizens. Mr. Stuart was a member of the Christian Church and the Willard Masonic Lodge. He was honored a few years ago by the lodge and awarded a 50 year membership pin. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon at the home with Rev. Fred Vanhorn officiating and interment made in the family cemetery near Cadmus. Mr. Stuart is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mary Thompson Stuart; 2 daughters, Mrs. Orville Rice, Hitchins, KY, and Mrs. Ida Gray, Denver, CO; 2 sons, Oscar Stuart, Williamson, WV and Claude L. Stuart, Alameda, CA; 2 sisters, Mrs. Mimi Wilson, Russell, KY and Mrs. Samantha Taylor, Fort Branch, WV, 4 brothers, George W. Stuart, Cadmus, Miles M. Stuart, Webbville, KY, Charles B. Stuart, Oldtown, KY and Henry Stuart, Grayson, KY. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

THOMPSON, Deletha (Kelley)

Mrs. Deletha Kelley Thompson, 31, wife of Cecil W. Thompson of Louisa route 2, died Tuesday morning at the Thompson home on Three Mile. Funeral was conducted at the home Wednesday afternoon and interment made in the Thompson family cemetery at Three Mile. Deceased was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. M. J. Kelley of Grayson. She is survived by the husband, 4 children and a sister, Mrs. Oliver Hildred, of New Boston, OH. Big Sandy News, Feb 19, 1943

THOMPSON, Louverna (Thompson)

1868-1943

Mrs. Louverna Thompson, 74, died Sunday night at the Thompson home at Cherryville following an illness of ten months of a heart ailment. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the Cherryville Church with Rev. Ide Preston officiating and interment made there. Mrs. Thompson was born and reared at Noris, a daughter of the late Arch and Minnie Meade Thompson. She had been a lifelong member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving are her husband, Lonzo Thompson, 2 daughters, Mrs. Robert Mullens and Mrs. Ernest Perry, both of route 2, Louisa, 3 sons, Scott Thompson, Glenwood, KY, Arch Thompson, Louisa, route 2, and Lace Thompson, Ashland, KY and 1 brother, H. B. Thompson of Beaver, OH. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

THOMPSON, Vina (Spencer)

Mrs. Vina Spencer Thompson, 82, native of this county and widow of the late Lewis W. Thompson, died Friday of last week at the home of a daughter, Mrs. James White of Laurel, Boyd County. Funeral for the aged woman was conducted Sunday in the Methodist Church at Cannonsburg with Rev. Burns Hogan officiating, and interment was made in the Thompson Cemetery, at Meade Station. Mrs. Thompson had been ill for 2 months. She was born and reared in this county, a daughter of the late John B. and Fannie Davis Spencer of the Little Blaine section. She was married to Mr. Thompson Feb 12, 1890. She was a member of the Little Blaine Baptist Church. Surviving besides the daughter is one brother, Rhode Spencer of Louisa route 1. Big Sandy news, Feb 5, 1943

VARNEY, James

James Varney, 50, member of the Mingo County board of education and a native of Wayne county, died Sunday night of a heart attack at Delbarton, WV. He was a son of Tom and Polly Parsley Varney, and lived at Naugatuck and Kermit before moving to Delbarton. He was a brother of John B. and W. J. Varney, Mrs. Frances Simpkins and Mrs. Laura Sammons, all of the Crum section. Big Sandy News, Feb 26, 1943

WELLMAN, Hugh E.

Fort Gay, WV, Feb 18--Private Hugh E. Wellman, 22, son of Noah D. Wellman of Huntington, formerly of near Salt Petre, died recently in a Japanese prison camp of wounds received during the battle of Corregidor, according to a War Department telegram received by his parents this week. Mr. Wellman, a brother of Taylor Wellman of Louisa and Mrs. Alice Knode of Fort Gay, said he had not heard from his son since the attack on Pearl Harbor. The War Department had listed him as missing since the surrender of Corregidor in the Philippines last May. The father was born and reared on Mill Creek near Salt Petre and moved to Huntington 26 years ago. He operates the Black & Yellow Cab Company in Huntington. Big Sandy News, Feb 19, 1943

WHEELER, Mrs. Ben

Mrs. Ben Wheeler, 36, of Sciotoville, OH, route 2, died Wednesday Jan 27 at Mercy hospital in Portsmouth a few hours after she was admitted as a medical patient. Surviving are her husband, and 8 children. Two children preceded her in death. She also leaves her father, Charlie Ross of Blaine, KY and these sisters and brothers, Mrs. Della Cordle of Portsmouth, Mrs. Hobart Green and Mrs. Mona Cordle of Blaine, Mrs. John Bayes and Mrs. Carl Bayes and Mrs. Cella Cordle of Sciotoville, Walter Ross of Flat Gap, KY, Proctor and Isaac Ross of Centerburg and Hershel Ross in service overseas. Funeral was held Saturday at the residence with Rev. Sandy Phillips officiating. Big Sandy News, Feb 5, 1943

MARCH 1943

BLANKENSHIP, Robert Mose

Robert Mose Blankenship, 85, former resident of Louisa, died Thursday of last week at the home of a son, Charles Blankenship in Catlettsburg. He had been ill for a month. Mr. Blankenship was born near Hewlett, Wayne County, WV, a son of William Blankenship, and Mildred Hewlett Blankenship, pioneer resident. he lived for 20 years in Catlettsburg, but moved to Louisa in 1938. He was a member of the Christian Church. Funeral was conducted Saturday at the home of his son in Catlettsburg, with Rev. Manuel Sherman and Rev. D. H. Matherly officiating, and interment was made in the William cemetery there. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Sarah Holley Blankenship, 2 sons, Charles Blankenship of Catlettsburg, and Dan Blankenship of Prichard, WV, 2 daughters, Mrs. J. C. Roberts of Huntington, WV and Mrs. Harry Hoff of Ashland, 2 brothers, Dan and Burch Blankenship both of Louisa, 2 sisters, Mrs. C. M. Evans and Mrs. M. Saulsbury, both of Chandler, OK and 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Mar 19, 1943

COLLINS, Virginia (Matney)

Devern Collins, 48 year old,, 200 pound Louisa Negor, is the object of a wide manhunt following the knife slaying of his wife, Virginia Matney Collins, 43, at their home in Louisa Monday night. Mrs. Collins died almost instantly of two butcher knife wounds in her back said to have been inflicted by her husband about 8:30 Monday night in the Collins home on the southern outskirts of Louisa. the husband fled shortly afterward and has not been apprehended. Their son, Asa, age 11, told the grand jury here Tuesday he saw his father grab his mother and stab her in the back and then throw her on a bed. One stab penetrated the abdominal cavity and the other the lungs.

Collins' aged mother called neighbors, saying, " He's killed her," and they notified officers, but Mrs. Collins was dead when they arrived. The bloody butcher knife was found on the mantle. Sheriff Arch Thompson, said Collins, after stabbing his wife, apparently placed the knife on the mantle, changed his clothes, grabbed a .32 pistol from under a bed and fled. His clothes, spattered with blood, were found in the home and a pistol belonging to his mother was missing from its hiding place.

A sheriff's posse searched Louisa and surrounding sections Monday and Tuesday nights without avail. Sheriff Thompson has sent a description of the murderer to police in surrounding towns. Collins, officers say, had "beat up" his wife on frequent occasions, and he was fined and (next few words unreadable) circuit court jury here last week on an assault and battery charge for beating his wife. He had spent 32 days in jail and this was credited against his fine, enabling him to be set free again. Collins came here form Magoffin County but his wife was a native of Louisa. Funeral for the slain woman was conducted at the home Wednesday afternoon with Rev. J. C. Hager officiating and interment was made in the Wallace Cemetery near Louisa.

 Mrs. Collins, a daughter of Reece B. Matney and the late Emma Johns Matney, was born and raised in Louisa. She is survived by a daughter, Margaret, and a son, Asa, both at home, 3 sisters, Mrs. Joe Fisher and Mrs. James Johnson, both of Huntington and Mrs. Wayne Garred of Louisa, 5 brothers, Harry Matney of Fort Gay, Frank and Wallace Matney both of Huntington, Eugene Matney of Lexington, and Reece Matney, Jr. of Williamson, a half brother, Alf Matney of Louisa and a half sister, Mrs. Ambrose Fisher of Greensboro, NC. Big Sandy News, Mar 19, 1943

CORDLE, Herston

Lawrence County's first war dead to be returned home for burial was Herston Cordle, 22, a Naval aviation cadet who was killed Thursday of last week in the crash of his training plane near the auxiliary naval air training station in Kingsville, TX. The body was shipped by train to Louisa, arriving here Monday morning and was taken in the Curtright funeral car to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Cordle, on the Louisa-Blaine road, 2 miles and a half east of Blaine, where funeral was conducted the next afternoon. The remains were accompanied by Aviation Cadet Don Emerson Wegley of Dayton, OH who had served with Cordle all through their 10 months of aviation training. Cadet Cordle, one of 3 sons of Willie and Laura Sparks Cordle of Blaine, was a rural school teacher before joining the Navy as an aviation cadet 10 months ago. He was graduated from the Blaine high school and attended Morehead College 2 years. He had taught at Glenwood and Cordell and later worked at Armco in Ashland. Cadet Cordle had practically completed his aviation training and was due to received his wings at the Navy's air school in Corpus Christi, TX Monday of this week, four days after he met death. The wings were awarded posthumously. He had written his parents, recently, telling of his forthcoming graduation as a pilot and said he would probably get to come home on a furlough after graduation. A large crowd attended the funeral Tuesday at his parent's home. Rev. Arthur Morris, Rev. Jarrett Cordle and Rev. Hood Wallen conducted the rites and interment was made in the family cemetery. Surviving besides the parents are 2 brothers, Thurman Cordle of Cordell and Herman Cordle, at home both school teachers. Big Sandy News, Mar 19, 1943

CRABTREE, Roberta

1941-1943

Roberta Crabtree, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Woodrow Crabtree, was born May 6, 1941 and died Feb 17,1 943. She died at the home of her grandparents, Rev. and Mrs. Carmi Crabtree of Fort Gay route 1 and in addition to the paternal grandparents, she is survived by the maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Jackson, of Mill Creek. Funeral services were held at the home of Rev. Crabtree by Rev. H. B. Thompson and Rev. Carmi Webb. Burial was in the family cemetery near the home. Big Sandy News, Mar 5, 1943

DEREFIELD, Mrs. Lawrence

Mrs. Lawrence Derefield, 62, route 1, Ironton, OH, died Sunday afternoon at her home following an illness of 5 years. Mrs. Derefield was born in Lawrence County, Aug 6, 1881, a daughter of the late Henry and Easter Blankenship. The Derefields moved to Ohio in 1909 and had resided there ever since. Surviving in addition to her husband are the following children, Dewey of Deering, OH, Roscoe of Ashland, Oscar of Chicago, George of Deering and Arnold Derefield of Ironton, 2 daughters, Mrs. Shirley Wineka and Mrs. Bessie Spears, both of Deering. A sister, Mrs. Eliza Evans, Columbus and 5 brothers, Charles and Elbert Blankenship both of Columbus, William of Gary, OH John of Kitts Hill and Dockie Blankenship of Williamsport, OH. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday afternoon at the Ice Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Dillon officiating. Burial was made in Deering, OH. Big Sandy news, Mar 5, 1943

FAULKNER, George

George Faulkner, 74, construction laborer and native of this county, died Sunday at the home of Fred Fraley on the Big Sandy river near Catlettsburg. Funeral was conducted Tuesday and interment made in the Faulkner family cemetery on Savage Branch, Boyd County. He had been ill a week. There are no immediate relatives. Big Sandy News, Mar 19,1 943

FRAZIER, Melvin Sparks

1870-1943

Melvin Sparks Frazier, 72, native of this county, died Saturday at his home in Ashland. He was born Sep 29, 1870 in this county, a son of Irvin and Amy Berry Frazier, but had resided in Ashland the past 54 years. He was a member of the First Methodist Church of Ashland. He is survived by his wife, Mary Belle Frazier, 2 sons and 2 daughters. Big Sandy News, Mar 5, 1943

LESTER, Mary (Osburn)

Fort Gay, WV--Mar 3, Mrs. Mary Osburn Lester, 70, widow of the late N. T. Lester, died Tuesday evening at the home of a son, E. T. Lester on Wolf Creek, 10 miles east of Fort Gay.  She had been ill 2 years and suffered a stroke 2 months ago. Deceased was born in Greenbriar county, VA, and came to Wayne county when a child with her parents, the late Lee and Caroline Vaughan Osburn. She had been a lifelong member of the Baptist Church. Funeral will be conducted Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the Greenbrier church with Rev. Carmi Crabtree officiating, and interment will be made in the Christian cemetery at the mouth of Wolf Creek. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Ira Price, Branchland, WV, 3 sons, Charles Lester, Doylestown, OH, Garland Lester, Washington, D. C. and E. T. Lester, Fort Gay, route 1. Her husband died in 1939. Big Sandy News, Mar 5, 1943

LYCAN, Henry T.

1882-1943

Henry T. Lycan, 60, of Portsmouth, an N & W railway fireman and native of near Ferguson, WV, died Thursday of last week on a train enroute home from Miami, FL. He had been at Miami since Jan 15 for his health. He died of a heart attack about 5 minutes before the train's arrival in Cincinnati. Funeral was held at the Manley Methodist Church in Portsmouth and the body was returned to Wayne County, WV for interment. He was born in 1882 at Ferguson, WV and started work as a fireman for the N & W in 1910 and had served since then as a fireman and engineer on the Kenova division. Jacob and John Lycan of Ferguson are brothers. Big Sandy News, Mar 19, 1943

MILUM, Robert

Fort Gay, WV, Mar 24--Robert Milum, 86, retired farmer of Genoa, WV, died Tuesday afternoon at the home of his son, Rev. A. B. Milum in Fort Gay. He had been in failing health for 3 years and had suffered a stroke a week ago. Short funeral services was conducted at the home of Rev. Milum in Fort Gay, Thursday morning, and the body was taken to Genoa for interment. Funeral rites were conducted at the Napier Ridge cemetery there at 1 p.m. with Rev. J. C. Hager, Baptist pastor at Louisa, officiating. Mr. Milum was born at Pikeville, KY but moved with his parents to Genoa, WV at the age of 5 and had lived there until 3 years ago, when he came to Fort Gay to live with his son. His wife, Mrs. Lizzie Pinson Milum died 31 years ago. Deceased had been a member of the Big Lynn Baptist Church near Genoa for 70 years. He is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. R. C. Preston of Borderland, WV, and Mrs. S. H. Hulen of Hagerstown, MD, 5 sons, J.H. Milum, Bluefield, WV, Rev. A. B. Milum, Fort Gay, James F. Milum, Ferguson, WV, George Milum, Genoa, WV and Robert Milum, Jr. Borderland, WV. Big Sandy News, Mar 26, 1943

MOORE, Everett

Ledocio, KY, Mar 15--The community was greatly grieved and shocked to hear of the passing of Everett Moore of Columbus, OH. Mr. Moore was born and reared at this place but went to Ohio in his young and married Delta O'Brian Moore, who survives. Besides his wife, he leaves 2 brothers, Arlie and Hubert Moore of Columbus, OH, 3 half brothers, Henry and Mont Moore of Adams and Elman Moore of Corpus Christi, TX, who joined the Navy some time ago. Mr. Moore belonged to the Church of Christ and was loved by all who knew him. May God bless the heart broken family in their hour of grief. Big Sandy News. Mar 19, 1943

MORRIS, L. S.

S. Morris, 83, died Jan 20, at the home of a daughter, Mrs. K. b. Thompson, of Fort Gay. Funeral services were conducted at the residence by Rev. Carmi Crabtree, Bill Isaac and Lindsey Thompson. Burial was in the Thompson Cemetery. Mr. Morris is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Dan Ferguson of Catlettsburg, KY and Mrs. Thompson; 4 grandchildren, 1 brother, Sidney Morris of Wayne. Big Sandy News, Mar 5, 1943

PAGE, Charles Bromley

Charles Bromley Page, 24, of Louisa, died Monday shortly after noon in a local hospital following a brief illness. Deceased was son of Mrs. Tessie Heston Page of Louisa and the late Lewis E. Page and was born and reared in Louisa. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at the Page home with Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the Baptist church officiating, and interment was made in Pinehill Cemetery here. He is survived by his mother, his wife, Mrs. Georgia Delong Page, a son, Lewis F. Page, a sister, Mrs. J. M. Rankin of Louisa and 4 brothers, John W. and Thomas Page, of Louisa, Ben Page, U. S. Army stationed at Aberdeen, MD and Bruce Page of Cleveland, OH. Big Sandy News, Mar 5, 1943

PRICHARD, Dr. Robert A.

1864-1943

Dr. Robert A. Prichard, 78, former Boyd physician, died of a heart attack Sunday at his home, Boerne, TX, according to word received by his son, Phillip H. Prichard of Ashland. Dr. Prichard was born Jul 15, 1864 on Garner in Boyd County, a son of Dr. Allen Prichard and Samantha Jones Prichard. He practiced medicine in Boyd County until 28 years ago when he moved to Missouri. for the past 16 years he has resided at Boerne. Surviving in addition to the son are a sister, Mrs. J. W. Mullan of Catlettsburg and a nephew, A. J. Finley of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Mar 12, 1943

ROBINSON, Rev. W. E.

Rev. W. E. Robinson, 58, of Summit, Boyd County and a native of Dobbins, Elliott County, died suddenly Monday of a heart attack suffered while seated in his car at Morehead. He was a son of George W. and Lucy Robinson of Dobbins and had been a minister of the Christian Baptist Church for several years. In recent years he had been employed by the State Highway Department in its transportation division. Funeral was conducted at Summit Wednesday and interment was made in Rose Hill Burial Park, Ashland. Besides his wife, he is survived by 10 children. Big Sandy News, Mar 5, 1943

SPENCER, Nannie (Mills)

1894-1943

Mrs. Nannie Mills Spencer, 48, widow of the late Lewis W. Spencer of Charley, died Sunday night at the home of her mother, Mrs. Malissa Ward Mills at Davisport, Martin County. Mrs. Spencer went to Davisport 2 weeks ago to see her mother, who was ill at the time with pneumonia, and died suddenly of a heart attack, Sunday night at 10 p.m. Funeral rites were conducted at the Mills home at Davisport, Monday and interment was made in the Mills family cemetery there. She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving besides her mother are a sister, Mrs. Richard Penix of Davisport, 4 brothers, Millard, Epp and Bascom Mills, all of Davisport and Albert Mills of Akron, OH and a stepdaughter, Mrs. L. S. Hayes of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Mar 12, 1943

THOMPSON, Leo Teddy

Fort Gay, WV, Mar 10--Leo Teddy Thompson, 10 years old, was found Monday morning Mar 8th after he had been missing for a week from the home of his aunt Mrs. Irvin Jones and Mr. Jones with whom he resided. He was found by Johnny Wellman, 18 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. George Wellman, a member of a searching party, on the head of Hurricane Creek about 1 mile from the Jones home. He was found in a pasture field about 1/4 miles from the road and 1/2 mile from any dwelling. He was lying in a prone position with part of his clothing and shoes missing. One shoe was discovered 10 feet away. It is supposed he was trying to find his way back home when he became exhausted and died of exposure. He ran away from his home Monday, Mar 1 about 6 p.m. Large searching parties searched intensely until he was found but a heavy snowfall concealed the body. Young Wellman declined the reward of $100. Funeral services were conducted from the Jones home Tuesday and interment was made in the Crabtree cemetery on Joel's Branch. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Thompson, of Inez, KY and 5 brothers and 1 sister at home; his grandfathers, F. B. Thompson, Fort Gay and Alfred Blankenship, of Williamson. Big Sandy News, Mar 12, 1943

WALLACE, John A.

1864-1943

John A. Wallace, 79, well known and respected Louisa colored citizen, died Tuesday shortly after noon at his home here. He had been ill since suffering a stroke ten months ago. He was born in Louisa, Feb 8, 1864, and had lived here all of his life and was one of the town's best known colored citizens. Funeral will be conducted Thursday afternoon at 2:30 from the home of a daughter, Mrs. Emogene Burgess in the Italy section, with Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. William W. Moore officiating, and interment will be made in the Wallace Cemetery. he is survived by his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Moore Wallace, 1 daughter, Mrs. Emogene Burgess, Louisa, 2 sons, Pvt. Austin Wallace, U. S. Army stationed in India, and Stanley (Mose) Wallace, of Louisa and 3 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Mar 19,1 943

WEBB, Rebecca

Mrs. Rebecca Webb, 74, of Kenova, died Monday of last week at the home of her son, Max Crabtree, of Columbus, OH. She had been ill there for several weeks, following a paralytic stroke. Funeral services were held at the First Baptist Church in Kenova, with burial in the Dock's Creek Cemetery. She is survived by 3 sons, Elias Crabtree with whom she made her home, Cary and Clyde Crabtree, all of Kenova, a sister, Mrs. Noah Chaffin of Kenova and a brother, James Thompson of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Mar 5, 1943

WILSON, Elizabeth (Stiltner)

Fort Gay, WV, Mar 2--Mrs. Elizabeth Stiltner Wilson, 88, widow of the late Charles R. Wilson, died Friday afternoon at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Thomas Frasher at the Forks of Hurricane, Fort Gay, route 1. She had been ill 2 years. Funeral was conducted Tuesday morning at the Big Hurricane Baptist Church with Rev. Ben Curnutte and Rev. J. T. Spencer officiating and interment made in the Christian cemetery on Big Hurricane. A daughter of the late James and Clara Watts Stiltner. Mrs. Wilson was born at East Lynn, WV, but had lived on Big Hurricane most of her life. Her husband, who died in 1929, operated a store in Louisa for 12 years. She had been a member of the Baptist Church for 68 years. She is survived by 4 daughters, Mrs. C. W. Frazier, of Fort Gay, WV, Mrs. Thomas Frasher of Fort Gay, route 1, Mrs. E. K. Belcher of Prichard, route 1, and Mrs. Louray Lycan of Fort Gay route 1, 1 sister, Mrs. Virginia Jackson of East Lynn, WV and 1 brother, Jimmerson Stiltner of East Lynn, WV. Big Sandy News, Mar 5, 1943

APRIL 1943

BELL, Rev. J. D.

Rev. J. D. Bell, 62, retired Methodist minister and one time pastor of the Louisa M. E.. church, South, died Monday in a local hospital in Charleston, WV. He had been in failing health for 2 years. Rev. Bell, a native of Alabama, was formerly pastor of 5 West Virginia churches. He entered the ministry in 1910 and joined the Western Virginia Conference of the M.E. Church South in 1919. He served as pastor of the Louisa Church 2 years immediately after the first World War. he was a member of the Apperson Lodge No. 195 F & AM of Louisa and also of the Royal Arch Masons of Louisa and a member of the Knights Templer. Funeral was conducted  in Charleston Wednesday morning and the body was brought to Ashland for burial in Rose Hill Burial Park. Brief rites were conducted in the Ashland Centenary Wednesday afternoon. He served as pastor of the Centenary church in 1928 and 1929. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Mary Ida Bell and 7 daughters, Misses Marie, Mildred, Martha and Betty Sue Bell, at home, Misses Calvin Brown, Detroit, Mrs. Maurice Hammond and Mrs. Earl Wiggin both of Charleston. Big Sandy News, Apr 23, 1943

BENTLEY, Anna (Kelley)

Mrs. Anna Kelley Bentley, 81, widow of the late John M. Bentley of Yatesville, died Thursday evening of last week at the Bentley home after an illness of five months of complications. Funeral was conducted Saturday afternoon at the home and interment was made in the Riffe cemetery near Yatesville. Mrs. Bentley was born in Greenup county, a daughter of Ephriam and Sally Nolan Kelley and came to this county 65 years ago and had lived at Yatesville since. She is survived by 1 daughter, Mrs. E. W. Wellman of Lakeworth, FL and 1 son, J. M. Bentley, Jr. of  Fallsburg. Big Sandy news, Apr 16, 1943

BERRY, James

James Berry, 66, died Thursday of last week at his home hear Irad of after an illness of 3 years. Funeral was conducted Saturday with Rev. Custer Bishop officiating and interment was made in the Berry family cemetery. Mr. Berry was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. William O. Berry and was one of the county's respected citizens. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Laura Adams Berry, 3 daughters, Mrs. John Perkins, Webbville, Mrs. Shelby Blankenship, Louisa, route 4, Miss Margie Berry, at home, 6 sons, Floyd, Worth, Curt, Custer, and Russell all at home and Pvt. Manley J. Berry, Camp VanDorn, Miss; 4 sisters, Mrs. Lee Skaggs, route 1, Chesapeake, OH, Mrs. Millard Carter, route 1, Bainbridge, OH, Mrs. Ren Berry, route 3, Louisa, and Miss Elizabeth Berry of Irad and 2 brothers, John and Jesse Berry of Irad. Big Sandy News, Apr 16, 1943

BRANHAM, T. B.

B. Branham, 72, farmer an prominent citizen of Louisa route 2 died Thursday night of last week at his home on Rockcastle Creek following an illness of 5 weeks. Funeral rites were held Saturday afternoon at the home and burial was made in the family cemetery. Mr. Branham was born and reared and had lived all of his life on the farm he operated in the Rockhouse section. He was a son of David T. and Ellen Bowe Branham pioneer citizens of the county. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Izela Lycan Branham, 3 daughters, Mrs. Samuel Hall, Jackson Center, OH, Mrs. John Dobbins, Gallup, KY and Mrs. William Thornsberry, Wyandotte, MI; 1 son, John H. Branham, at home, and 2 brothers, Samuel Branham, Clifford, KY and Ed Branham, Ashland, KY. Big Sandy News, Apr 30,1 943

CHANDLER, Mrs. Lanie (Castle)

Mrs. Lanie Castle, 52, died Mar 17 at her home at Chandlersville after suffering a stroke. Mrs. Castle was the mother of 7 children, Devina, Jason, Hansel, Fonnie, Norman, Oval and Clearia. Her parents were the late Mr. and Mrs. John Castle, Lowmansville, and her husband, Henry Chandler who died last July. Brothers and sisters are Hollie, Paris, Lafe and Clearia. She was a member of Old Hood United Baptist Church. Big Sandy News, Apr 2, 1943

CREEL, Harry W.

Harry W. Creek, 70, for many years a drilling contractor in Lawrence county died unexpectedly at his home in Louisa Sunday morning. Mr. Creel was home for the week end from Ona, WV where he had been employed the past 7 years by the Virginia Gasoline and Oil Co. Funeral was conducted Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. at the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa, with Rev. J.C. Hager, pastor of the First Baptist Church officiating and interment was made in Pinehill Cemetery here. Mr. Creel was born in Point Marion, PA in 1873, a son of Tecumseh and Mary McCormack Creel. He came to Lawrence County as a drilling contractor in 1912, after working in oil fields in Pennsylvania, Illinois and West Virginia. He drilled many wells in this county, but for the past 7 years had worked at Ona, VA. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Minnie Hayes Creel, 2 daughters, Mrs. Ray Grabeel of Ona, WV and Mrs. Harry A. Carney of Charleston, WV, a sister, Mrs. Bert Dehaven of Chicago and 2 brothers, Sam Creel of Boston, Mass., and J. J. Creel of Chicago and a granddaughter, Miss Gloria Carney of Charleston, WV. Big Sandy News, Apr 2, 1943

CROSS, Judia (Hicks)

1873-1943

Mrs. Judia Hicks Cross, native of this county and wife of Alvin Cross, died Wednesday of last week at her home in Cincinnati, of a heart ailment. She was born Mar 1, 1873 in Lawrence County later moving to Portsmouth and then to Cincinnati. Besides the husband, she is survived by 3 children, John Cross of Portsmouth, Mrs. Elva Collins, and Elmer Cross at home; 2 brothers, Charles Hicks, Marion, OH and Sherman Hicks, Rush, KY and 2 sisters, Mrs. Dora Nunley of Buchanan and Mrs. Duffie York of Mt. Orab, OH. Big Sandy News, Apr 23, 1943

DAVIS, Roscoe (Dewberry)

Roscoe (Dewberry) Davis, 54, of Catlettsburg, but a native of this county, died Monday. Mr. Davis, who was employed in a shipyard at Baltimore, MD became sick 2 weeks ago while visiting in Catlettsburg. He was born in this county, a son of John and Rebecca Borders Davis, and was a veteran of the first World War. He was a brother of Mrs. Wade Hampton and Mrs. Ethel Howard of Catlettsburg. Funeral was conducted Thursday at the United Baptist Church in Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, Apr 30, 1943

DIALS, William

1858-1943

William Dials, 84, a native of this county, died last Friday at Wheelersburg, OH, following an illness of 4 years. Funeral was held in the Wheelersburg United Baptist Church Sunday and interment made in the Long Run cemetery near Wheelersburg. Mr. Dials was born Dec 13, 1858, in Lawrence County, KY, a son of George and Sarah Dials. He was married in 1900 to Perlina Allen and 8 children were born to them. Surviving are his wife and these children, George C. Dials and Mrs. Homer Nelson of Wheelersburg, Mrs. Ovie Burchett of Lucasville, route 1, Mrs. Joel White of Poca, WV, James Dials of Scioto Furnace, OH, Grace, Esther and John Dials at home and Grover Dials of McAlister, OK by a former marriage. A son, Hugh Dials, died May 18, 1939. He also leaves a sister, Mrs. George Ball of Ashland and a brother, George Dials of Pinson Fork, KY. Big Sandy News, Apr 9,, 1943

FANNIN, Elizabeth (Lakin)

1861-1943

Mrs. Elizabeth Lakin Fannin, 82, widow of John D. Fannin, and a native of this county, died Tuesday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Morley Fout in Portsmouth, OH after an illness of several months. Mrs. Fannin was born in this county, Apr 8, 1861, a daughter of James and Sarah Lakin. She was married to Mr. Fannin in 1880 and them moved to Oak Hill, OH where they resided many years. Mr. Fannin died last November. She was a member of the Oak Hill Methodist Church and Order of the Eastern Star. Funeral was conducted Thursday at Portsmouth and interment made in Memorial Park there. Besides her daughter at whose home she died, Mrs. Fannin is survived by another daughter, Mrs. Ella McClave of Portsmouth and a son, Clem Fannin of Oak Hill. Big Sandy News, Apr 30, 1943

FERGUSON, Fred

Fort Gay, WV, Apr 29--The body of Fred Ferguson, 17, who died suddenly at Rittman, OH Monday was returned  here for burial at his former home on Big Hurricane. Funeral arrangements are incomplete, pending the arrival of a brother, John H. Ferguson from Camp Swift, TX. Young Ferguson moved with his parents, F. F. and Ruth McComas Ferguson, to Rittman, OH two weeks ago. He became ill Monday while seated in an auto after driving his father to a doctor's office. When his father returned from the doctor's office, the youth complained of being ill. The doctor had him removed to a hospital but he died soon after admittance, apparently from monoxide poisoning. Besides the parents, he is survived by 2 sisters, Misses Lucille and Gloria Jean, at home and 3 brothers, Pvt. John H. at Camp Swift, TX, and Garland M. and Clarence at home. The deceased was a grandson of the late Rev. John H. McComas of Little Hurricane. Big Sandy News, Apr 30, 1943

FIELDS, Estill

Estill Fields, 49, native of Fielden, Elliott County, who had operated the Fields grocery store at Gartrell Hill, Ashland the past 26 years, died at his home Saturday. He was a son of Mrs. Mary Creech Fields of Fielden and the late Jason Fields. Big Sandy news, Apr 16, 1943

FRANCE, Miss Edna

Noris, KY, Apr 5--Miss Edna France, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Marion France, died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Asberry Thompson where she had made her home for the past few months. She was 47 years of age, and was born and reared at this place. She is survived by 3 sisters, Mrs. Dovie Moore of Ashland, Mrs. Fannie Gatten of Ohio and Mrs. Leola Moore of Ohio and 1 brother, Garfield France of Marion, OH. Funeral was conducted Wednesday at the Little Blaine Church with interment made in the Miller-Judd Cemetery. Big Sandy News. Apr 9, 1943

GARTIN, Charles Earl

Hannah, KY, Apr 20--The death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Gartin and took their 2 months old son, Charles Earl. Pvt. Gartin is stationed in Tennessee. Big Sandy News, Apr 23, 1943

KITCHEN, W. C. "Wirt"

C. "Witt" Kitchen, 61, prominent farmer of Dennis and vice chairman of the Lawrence county AAA committee, was found dead early Friday morning on the road leading from Dennis up the Cooksey Fork of Catt to his home. Mr. Kitchen had been to Louisa the day before to attend the weekly meeting of the county AAA committee. He went home that evening, with the chairman of the committee, Walden R. Riffe of Bells Trace, getting out at Dennis on the Webbville road, where he helped unload some feed and seed at his son's home. This done, he started walking home at about 7 p.m. Next morning, Jay Cooksey, a neighbor, found his body in the road on the Cooksey Fork road about 100 yards of the Kitchen home. Death was attributed to a heart attack. Funeral services were conducted Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the home with Rev. Fred Vanhorn officiating and burial was made in the family cemetery. Mr. Kitchen was the father of Sgt. Kenneth Kitchen of Fort Knox, the first Lawrence county man to volunteer after enactment of the Selective Service Act. Mr. Kitchen was a son of the late Joe and Emaline Sargent Kitchen and had operated a farm on Cooksey Fork for many years. Big Sandy News, Apr 16, 1943

MASSIE, Fred

Fort Gay, WV, Apr 15--James Frederick Massie, 66, prominent Wayne county farmer, died suddenly of a heart attack at his home at the forks of Hurricane Wednesday evening at 7"30 p.m. He was stricken while seated at the supper table and expired in a few moments. Funeral will be conducted Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Bellomy Chapel at Hubbardstown with Rev. Enos Scraggs and Rev. Dave Hewlett officiating. Mr. Massie, a son of George and Sarah Clay Massie, was born and reared and had spent all of his life in the Hubbardstown section. He had been a member of the Methodist Church for 35 years. Surviving are his second wife, Mrs. Stella Hodge Massie; 8 daughters, Mrs. Charles Smith of Huntington, Mrs. William Williams, of Youngstown, OH, and Miss Bertha, Reva, Orthia, Audra, Maxine and Clotine, all at home; 6 sons, Raymond of Youngstown, OH, Homer of Fort Gay, Burgess and Lloyd of the U. S. Navy and Charles and Fred, Jr. at home and 2 sisters, Mrs. B. C. Boyd of Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Edward Bellomy of Hubbardstown. His first wife, Mrs. Martha Massie died 25 years ago. Big Sandy news, Apr 16, 1943

MAY, George W. Sr.

George W. May, Sr., 44, painter and farmer of Irad, died Monday at 4 p.m. in a Lexington hospital after an illness of 2 weeks. The body was returned to Louisa and funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon in the Freewill Baptist Church with the pastor Rev. William W. Moore, officiating. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery here under direction of Curtright Funeral Home. Mr. May was born in Pike county and came to this county as a youth with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hammond May. He was one of the county's respected citizens. Mr. May became ill after receiving notice that his son, George W. Jr., a tank commander in the AEP that invaded North Africa, was reported missing in action on Dec 10. He was removed to a hospital 2 weeks ago. Mr. May is survived by his wife, Mrs. Maude Curnutte May, 3 daughters, Mrs. Wesley Holbrook, Jackson, MI, Mrs. Forest Holbrook, Richwood, OH and Miss Elsie May, at home, 2 sons, Lovell and Lowell at home, 2 sisters, Mrs. Henry Moore, Cherokee and Mrs. Ernest Ward, Columbus, and 5 brothers, Tom, Russell and Jeff May, all of Cherokee, Harry May, Ashland and Dave May, Columbus. Big Sandy News, Apr 9, 1943

MAYNARD, Clovis

Dunlow, WV, Apr 26--Clovis Maynard of Kiahsville, died last Wednesday in a Beckley hospital. Surviving are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Elijah Maynard, also of Kiahsville, 3 sisters, Mrs. Golden Maynard and Mrs. James Ramey, Kiahsville, Mrs. Ivan Matthews, of Cleveland, OH; 4 brothers, Claude, Charles K. and Tim Maynard of Kiahsville and Pvt. Alvis Maynard, who is stationed with the U. S. Army in Washington, D. C. Funeral and burial services were conducted Friday. Big Sandy News, Apr 30, 1943

MAYNARD, Elijah

An immense crowd attended the funeral of Elijah Maynard, 88 years old, who succumbed to burns sustained following a field of broomsedge which he had set near his residence at Kiahsville. State Forester R. O. Bowen of Logan said the disaster was the first in the state's history. Big Sandy News, Apr 30, 1943

MONTGOMERY, George W.

1877-1943

Fort Gay, WV, Apr 20--George W. Montgomery, 66, of Belo, near Williamson, died Apr 7, at his home. He was born Jun 2, 1877 at Concord, KY and was married Jan 20,1 904 to Delphia McCloud at Breeden. Before going to Belo, Mr. Montgomery lived on Fort Gay. In addition to the widow, he is survived by 11 children, Mrs. J. E. Williams of Baltimore, Mrs. P.G. Ratcliff of Grundy, VA, Mrs. Maynard Wellman of Fort Gay, Mrs. Wilson A. Curry of Williamson, Mrs. Lummie Ward of Grundy, Misses Sylvia, Mary Fern and Alice Faye Montgomery, George E. Robert Lewis and Charles Phillips Montgomery, all at home; 1 sister, Mrs. D. E. Jenkins of Columbus. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. H. L. Marcum with burial in the Wellman Cemetery on Mill Creek, Fort Gay. Mr. Montgomery was operator of a wholesale fruit and produce firm at Belo. Big Sandy News, Apr 23, 1943

NOE, Alfred

Fort Gay, WV, Mar 30--Alfred Noe, 83, retired Wayne county farmer of Genoa, died Tuesday morning at 7:45 p.m. at the home of a son, Pearley P. Noe in Fort Gay where he had made his home for the past 10 months. Funeral for Mr. Noe will be conducted Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Genoa school house with Rev. Henry Mullins officiating, and interment will be made at Genoa. Mr. Noe was born at Genoa, a son of Samuel and Hannah Napier Noe, pioneer Wayne county citizens, and lived all of his life at Genoa where he operated a farm. He had been a member of the United Baptist Church for over half a century. His wife, Mrs. Victoria Thompson Noe , member of another pioneer Wayne county family died in 1941. He is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Anderson Harvey of Genoa, Mrs. Ova V. Troutwine, Sidney, WV and Mrs. Elk Maynard of Fort Gay, 4 sons, Carl, Pearley F. and Lewis Noe, all of Fort Gay and G. Noe of Genoa, 3 sisters, Mrs. George Perry of Pike county, KY, Mrs. Nancy Napier and Mrs. Ben Wellman both of East Lynn, WV. Big Sandy News, Apr 2, 1943

PENNINGTON, Miss Mabel

Miss Mabel Pennington, 44, daughter of the late A. O. and Laura Sparks Pennington of Fielden, died Thursday of last week at home of a sister, Mrs. Dewey Slone in Ashland. Big Sandy News, Apr 16, 1943

POWELL, Rebecca (Shannon)

Mrs. Rebecca Shannon Powell, 83, resident of the Kavanaugh section for 60 years, died Friday at her home at Kavanaugh, Boyd County. She was the widow of the late Joseph Powell and was a native of Wayne Co., WV being a daughter of William and Jane Hatten Shannon. She was an active member of the Kavanaugh Methodist Church and a member of the Boyd County Homemakers Club. Surviving are 2 daughters, Mrs. L. T. Compton of Ashland, and Mrs. James rice of Cincinnati and 1 son, William Powell of Lucasville, OH. Funeral was conducted at Kavanaugh Chapel and interment made there. Big Sandy News, Apr 30, 1943

PRICE, Charles M.

Charles M. Price, 86, a retired mine foreman who worked for many years in West Virginia, died at his home in Ashland Wednesday of last week. Funeral was conducted Friday in the Enterprise Baptist Church there and interment made in the Dixon cemetery. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Clist Borders Price; a daughter, Mrs. Beulah Ogle of Red Jacket, WV, a son, Charles H. Price of Red Jacket, WV, a stepdaughter, Mrs. A. J. Napier of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Apr 2, 1943

RICE, James M.

James M. Rice, 86, retired government construction foreman and Big Sandy river steamboat pilot, died early Friday morning at the home of a daughter, Mrs. John Dials in Louisa. He had been in failing health since suffering a stroke 7 years ago. Funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon from the Dials home in Louisa and interment was made in the Rice family cemetery on Two Mile near Louisa. Mr. Rice was a son of the late Jake and Allon Crabtree Rice and had been a lifelong resident of Louisa. He had been a member of the Methodist Church for many years. Mr. rice was a licensed pilot on the Big Sandy river during steamboat days and for many years he was employed by the government as a construction foreman on lock and dam work. His wife, Mrs. Mary Loar Rice, died in 1914. He is survived by 4 daughters, Mrs. John Dials, Louisa, Mrs. DeWitt Diamond, Yatesville, KY, Mrs. Nolvis Carter, Huntington, WV, Mrs. Samuel Beeman, Wheeling, WV; 3 sons, Ezra T. Rice, Kittining, PA, John M. Rice, Pittsburgh, PA, and James S. Rice, Cincinnati, OH and 1 sister, Mrs. Effie Rice, Williamson, WA. Big Sandy News, Apr 23, 1943

RUSSELL, David

David Russell, 85, native Lawrence countian, died Friday at his home at Hardy, KY. He was a retired coal miner. Funeral was held Sunday and interment made at Hardy. Big Sandy News, Apr 16, 1943

SANDERS, Jennie

Funeral services for Mrs. Jennie Sanders, 48, 529 Tenth Street, Huntington, who died Apr 26 at her home were held in the Buchanan Chapel, Zelda. KY. Burial was in the Buchanan Chapel Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Apr 30, 1943

STONE, Harrison

Harrison Stone, 55, a prosperous farmer of Carey, OH was killed instantly about 8:45 p.m. last Saturday night when his ton and a half Ford truck plunged over an embankment on the Mayo Trail near the William May dairy farm on East Fork, 18 miles north of Louisa. The body was brought to the Curtright Funeral Home here and prepared for burial and taken Sunday to his home in Ohio. Funeral was conducted there Wednesday. Stone, who was born and reared in Magoffin County, KY, a son of the late Steve Stone, was enroute to Prestonsburg to move a Floyd county family to his farm in Ohio to work. His mother, Mrs. Jane Risner Stone, lives in Prestonsburg. A coroner's inquest, conducted by Dr. H. S. young, revealed that a car traveling toward Ashland passed Stone's truck on a sharp curve, and it is believed that Stone was blinded by the lights as a result failed to make the curve. His truck plummeted down a rocky embankment and he was found dead in the cab, apparently from head injuries. Certificates from the U. S. Department of Agriculture revealed he was a grower of onions and potatoes and a dealer in fresh vegetables. Besides his wife, he is survived by 5 daughters, 2 sisters and 5 brothers. Big Sandy News, Apr 23, 1943

SWETNAM, Flora (Stafford)

Blaine, KY, Apr 27, Mrs. Flora Stafford Swetnam, 70, a former resident of Blaine, died Mar 25 at Lawrenceville, GA. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Stafford of Paintsville. She is survived by her mother and 3 sons and a daughter. The daughter was a missionary in Japan until war broke out. Big Sandy News, Apr 30,1 943

VINSON, Virginia (See)

Mrs. Virginia See Vinson, 88, scion of a pioneer Big Sandy family, died Friday at the home of a daughter in law, Mrs. Ed J. Vinson, five miles south of Louisa on the Louisa-Inez road. Her husband, Dan Vinson, died in 1900. Mrs. Vinson was a daughter of William G. and Kizzie Wellman See, pioneer citizens of the Big Sandy section and had resided in and near Louisa all of her life. She had been a member of the Louisa Christian church for 63 years. Funeral was conducted at the home of Mrs. Ed J. Vinson near Salt Petre Sunday afternoon at 2:30 and interment will be made in the See Cemetery south of Louisa. She is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Sam Crum of Huntington, WV and Mrs. C. L. Graham of Tollesboro, KY, 22 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Apr 23, 1943

WOODS, John W.

1871-1943

John W. Woods, prominent attorney, banker, and business man of Ashland and a native of this county, died Sunday in a hospital in Florida where he and Mrs. Woods had gone to spend a part of the winter. Mr. Woods became ill in Florida about 4 weeks ago and was removed to a hospital in Hollywood, FL for treatment. He suffered a relapse Saturday night and succumbed Sunday morning. The body was returned to Ashland Tuesday and funeral was conducted Wednesday in the First Presbyterian Church there with the pastor, Rev. Samuel R. Curry, officiating. Burial was made in Rose Hill Burial Park, Ashland. A large assemblage including prominent personages from many parts of the state and throughout the tri-state section attended the rites. Mr. Woods was born Feb 6, 1871 on Little Catt, this county, a son of Mr. and Mrs. William H. woods, pioneer citizens of the county. During his early manhood he taught rural schools, and then went to the University of Kentucky, graduating there in 1896. He returned to Louisa to commence practicing law and for 2 years was associated with A. O. Carter in a law firm known as Carter & Woods. He removed to Ashland in 1902, and had resided there since. Mr. Woods was a symbol of stability in the business life of Ashland, during the period of its greatest expansion. He helped organize the Third National Bank of Ashland in 1916 and served as president of the institution until about 2 months ago when he resigned to turn the affairs over to his son, John W. Woods, Jr. He was attorney and director for the Ashland Federal Savings and Loan Association since its founding. He also was interested in many other businesses and ?? endeavors. He was a director of the Henry Clay Hotel, he served as chairman of the Ashland board of education for several years during the period when modern school buildings were built. He was a member of the board of deacons and an elder in the Presbyterian Church, a Mason, a Kiwanian and member of Sigma Chi fraternity.

Mr. Woods also was active in the political life of Boyd County. In 1904 he was a delegate to the Democratic national convention, and in 1905 was elected Boyd County attorney. He was senior member of the Ashland law firm of Woods, Stewart and Nickell. Mr. Woods was a famed athlete at the University of Kentucky, in the years when the "flying wedge", an offensive formation of the "Gay Nineties", came into prominence. Mr. Woods had many relatives in this county. He frequently practiced before the Lawrence county bar and was held in the highest esteem here. Pall bearers at the funeral were Lawrence and W. T. Woods of Vessie, Dr. William H. Vaughan of Morehead, Ira m. Nickell, Carson L. Davis, Wilbur Witten, John T. Dictrich and W. H. Keffer all of Ashland. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Frances Peebles Woods, who was at his bedside when the end came and by 6 children, John Woods, Jr., Mrs. Ed Emerick of Ashland, Mrs. W. S. Hilletimeyer of Washington, D. C., Mrs. Roger Thompson of Ashland, T-Sergeant Robert Woods of the United States Army and William Woods of the Atmospheric Nitrogen Co., South Point, OH. The following brothers and sisters also survive: 3 brothers, Harlan Woods, Webbville, Ezra Woods, Ashland, and Walter T. Woods of Ashland, 2 sisters, Mrs. Sally Hankes of Ashland and Mrs. Dora Doty of Lexington, 8 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Apr 2, 1943

WORKMAN, Frances (Ball)

Fort Gay, WV, Arp 12--Mrs. Frances Ball Workman, 75, widow of the late J. D. Workman of Sidney, died Friday afternoon at he home of a son, Okey Workman at Sidney. Funeral services were conducted Monday afternoon in the Twelvepole Baptist Church with Rev. Oscar Hutton officiating, and burial made in the Smith cemetery at Sidney. Mrs. Workman was born and reared in Wayne county, a daughter of pioneer residents, Joseph and Rebecca Griswold Ball. She had been a member of the Twelvepole Baptist Church for many years. Her husband, who was a prominent farmer of Sidney died in 1937. She is survived by 5 daughters, Mrs. Walter Hutchinson, route 1, Wayne, Mrs. Albert Jackson, Williamson, Mrs. John Deane, Huntington, Mrs. Emory Thompson and Mrs. Arthur Fields, both of Sidney, 2 sons, Sidney and Okey Workman, both of Sidney, 4 brothers, Bayless Ball, route 1, Fort Gay, Sidney and Otis Ball both of Sidney and Alva Ball of Kenova and a sister, Mrs. Birdie Hall of Rittman, OH. Big Sandy News, Apr 16, 1943

WORKMAN, John

John Workman, 84, retired Louisa merchant who with his wife, Mrs. Mary Chaffin Workman, celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary Mar 1, died Monday noon at his home in Louisa, a week after suffering a stroke. Funeral was conducted in the Curtright Funeral Home here Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the Baptist Church, officiating and interment made in the Bussey Cemetery at Busseyville. Surviving besides the wife, who is 86, are 3 sons, Lon Workman, Prestonsburg, KY, Oscar Workman, Columbus, OH, and Charles Workman, Lucasville, OH and 1 stepson, Rev. W. B. Curnutte, of Louisa and a brother, Allen Workman, Portsmouth, OH. Big Sandy news, Apr 9, 1943

MAY 1943

ADAMS, Elwood

Private First Class Elwood Adams, 22, formerly of the Buchanan section of this county, was fatally injured Monday during tank maneuvers at the Desert Training Center near Camp Young, CA. The body is being shipped to Catlettsburg, but funeral arrangements had not been completed Wednesday. Pfc. Adams, who joined the armed forces Jan 9, 1942, is a son of Mrs. Tennie Poe Adams and the late John Adams of Buchanan. Mrs. Adams now resides at Sunberry, OH. Besides the mother, he is survived by 5 brothers and 2 sisters. Two of his brothers are in the armed forces--Herman at Fort Leonard Wood, MO and Willie Adams at Camp Campbell, KY. Big Sandy News, May 21, 1943

BARTRAM, Claude

Fort Gay, WV, May 13--Claude Bartram, 24, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Bartram of See station, 2 miles above Fort Gay, was killed by N & W passenger train No 3 west bound from Norfolk, at 3:18 Thursday morning about a half mile above Fort Gay. The engineer on No 3 said Bartram was walking up the middle of the track. The accident took place at the end of a curve and it is believed Bartram thought the train was approaching him on the other track. The train stopped and trainmen notified N & W employees at Fort Gay who had the body removed to the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa. Bartram is the second son of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Bartram to be killed by trains. Homer Bartram and Paul Branham, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bill Branham, were killed 6 years ago by an N & W train as they were enroute home from attending church at Crum. Funeral for Bartram will be conducted from the home of his parents at See station at a time to be set after word is relayed to a brother, Jerry Bartram, who is serving in the Army at Camp Atterbury, IN. Rev. Enos Scraggs will officiate and interment will be made in the Frasher Cemetery on Mill Creek. Besides the parents, Bartram is survived by 3 sisters, Mrs. Homer Bartram of Ona, WV and Misses Margaret and Juanita, at home, 4 brothers, Jerry, U. S. Army, Carl H. Bartram, Huntington, WV, and Jess and Randall at home and his maternal grandparents, Rev. and Mrs. J.H. Holbrook of Louisa, KY. Big Sandy News, May 14, 1943

BAYLESS, T. E.

E. Bayless died suddenly of a heart attack at his home at Kilgore, TX, May 3, relatives here have been informed. He is survived by his wife, the former Eleanora Saulsberry, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Saulsberry, of Louisa, route 4 and a sister, Miss Minnie Bayless of Kilgore. Funeral was conducted in the Christian Church in Kilgore May 6, and interment made there. Mrs. Saulsberry, Mrs. t. J. Vance and  daughter, Tony Jean Vance, of Ashland, attended the funeral and returned to their homes Saturday. Big Sandy News, May 14, 1943

BELCHER, George B.

1866-1943

George B. Belcher, 76, former resident of Lawrence County, died at his home at 1008 Jefferson Ave., Evansville, IN, May 7 after a lingering illness. Mr. Belcher was born on East Fork, Aug 23, 1866. he was the son of Isaac and Eliza Belcher, one of a family of 10 children of which only 2 sons survive, William Belcher and I. A. Belcher, both of Ironton, OH. Mr. Belcher is survived by his widow, Ethel of Evansville, IN, 2 sons, Vincent of Marion, IN, and Clifford of Evansville, 2 daughters, Belle Fasciano and Mrs. Grace Workman also of Evansville, IN and 8 grandchildren. Mr. Belcher was active in stock raising and agriculture in this county. Her served as Deputy Sheriff of Lawrence county. Mr. Belcher was grand secretary of Mutual Protection Society of Kentucky, an organization devoted to law enforcement. In 1906, while serving in this capacity a posse led by him captured the men who, the day before, attempted to rob the Willard Bank at Willard, KY. In 1935 Mr. Belcher moved to Cheston, WA, where he served on the po9lice force, until his return to Evansville in 1939, where he remained until his death. Big Sandy News, May 28, 1943

BROWN, Elbert A.

MULLINS, Tom

Two men are dead and a woman lies critically wounded in a Louisa hospital as the result of a shooting in the Italy section of Louisa last Sunday night. A jury, summoned Monday morning,, by Dr. H. S. Yong, coroner, reported that Elbert A. Brown, 54, of Memphis, TN and Miss Garnett Mullins, 25, were shot by Tom Mullins, 58, father of the girl, who then shot and killed himself. Condition of Miss Mullins, who as a .38 bullet wound through her chest from side to side, was reported serious Thursday morning at the Riverview hospital where she is a patient. She is recovering satisfactorily so far, however, and there is a chance she may recover, the attending physician said. Neighbors who lived near the Mullins home in the Italy section told the coroner's jury they heard six or seven shots fired in an alley about a block from the Mullins home about 9:30 Sunday night.

Testimony showed that Brown and Miss Mullins got out of a car and entered the home a short time before the shooting. Another witness said he saw Mullins earlier in the evening, "drunk and mad, " hunting for the couple. Mullins appeared on the scene as the couple was leaving the home and the shooting followed in an alley. Billy Mullins, 11, a son of the girl told the jury "He shot ma first and then shot Brown". Having emptied his pistol, a .38 caliber Spanish Special, at the couple, Mullins was said to have removed the empty shells placed one cartridge in the cylinder and fired it into his head. Brown was killed almost instantly by a bullet that entered over his left ear. Mullins died almost instantly, too, from the bullet that he fired into his head over his right ear.

Brown, a buyer for the Darby Lumber Company of Memphis, TN had been in Lawrence county four 233ks. He spent week days near Richardson inspecting lumber his company was buying from the Republic Creosoting Company, and spent weeks ends in Louisa. He had been seen frequently with Miss Mullins, officers reported. Brown's body was shipped Monday night to Memphis for funeral and interment. His wife and 3 daughters live in Memphis, friends said. Mullins was buried Tuesday in the Wellman Cemetery a mile above Louisa. Mullins, who had lived in and near Louisa and Fort Gay for many years attempted suicide by firing a bullet into his chest last December in his home on the Mayo Trail at the northern outskirts of Louisa. Sheriff Arch Thompson, who investigated the case at the time, reported that Mullins said "family troubles' was the cause of his act. His wife is dead. Big Sandy News, May 14, 1943

CASTLE, Madge (Borders)

1904-1943

Mrs. Madge Castle, 40, died May 13 at her home at Ulysses of heart trouble. She was a daughter of Forrest and Pricie Burton Borders and the wife of Clyde Castle. Besides the husband she is survived by 2 children, 1 brother, Walter Borders and 2 sisters, Mrs. Meza Bowens and Mrs. Mary Daniels both of Ulysses. Big Sandy news, May 28, 1943

CHAPMAN, Sophie (Limbers)

1921-1943

Mrs. Sophie Limbers Chapman, 22, died Friday at the home of her father, Christ Limbers, Forty-fifth Street, Ashland, after an illness of 3 weeks. Mrs. Chapman was born Apr 29, 1921 at Webbville, this county, a daughter of Chris Limbers and the late Lena Barker Limbers. Surviving are the husband, Wilburn Chapman, the father, 2 brothers, Angel Limbers, U. S. Army and James Limbers, at home, and one sister, Mrs. Christine Hopn, of New Jersey. Big Sandy News, May 21, 1943

CLARK, Antony

Antony Clark, 54, Louisa colored citizen died at the home of his mother, Mrs. Sarah Freese Clark, here Monday noon. He had been ill for 2 weeks. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at the home of his mother and interment was made in the Wallace Cemetery. Surviving are his brother, Lewis Clark, also of Louisa. Deceased was a son of the late George Clark. His wife, Allie Clark, died a few years ago. Big Sandy news, May 21, 1943

COPLEY, Lindsey Monroe

Lindsey Monroe Copley, retired teacher and insurance man, died Thursday of last week a the home of his daughter, Mrs. Stanley Rolfe, 235 Montgomery Avenue, Ashland, after an illness of 3 months. Funeral services were conducted at the Clark Funeral Home Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. Burial was in the Rose Hill Burial Park, Ashland. Surviving, in addition to the daughter are 3 sons, Paul Copley of Glenwood, KY, Pearl Copley of Ashland and L. N. Copley, U. S. Navy somewhere in the Pacific; 2 brothers, Ali Copley of Ashland and Will Copley of Louisa; 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren also survive. Big Sandy News, May 14, 1943

DEAN, Emma (Riggs)

Fort Gay, WV, May 26--Mrs. Emma Dean, 80, widow of William Dean, of Fort Gay, passed away Wednesday of last week at the home of her daughter, Mrs. R. B. Billups, of Kenova. Her only brother, Jacob Riggs,  passed away on the same day as Mrs. Dean. Besides the daughter at whose home she died, she leaves these other children, Mrs. Paul Dawson of Portsmouth, Mrs. A. V. Osborn of Circleville, OH, Mrs. P. J. Smith of Columbus, Mrs. Ivan East of Roanoke, VA, Mrs. Henry Perdue, of Huntington, Wayne Dean of Detroit, and Benton Dean of near Fort Gay.  She also leaves 32 grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren; four grandsons are in the service. Funeral was held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Kenova Baptist Church. Big Sandy News, May 28, 1943

EDWARDS, Georgia (Sparks)

Mrs. Georgia Sparks Edwards, 47, wife of George W. Edwards, died suddenly of a heart attack at the home in Fort Gay Tuesday morning. Mrs. Edwards had been in failing health for a year. Deceased was born and reared at Yatesville, KY, a daughter of Cobe Sparks and the late Martha Chaffin Sparks. She had lived at Fort Gay the past 22 years. Funeral rites will be conducted in the Fort Gay Methodist Church, Friday morning at 10:30 with the pastor, Rev. Enos Scraggs, officiating. Mrs. Edwards had been a member of the Methodist Church for 17 years. surviving besides the husband and father are 6 sons, Clyde, Paul, George W. Edwards, Jr. all of Huntington, Eugene Edwards, serving in the Navy at Chicago, Lawrence Edwards, serving in the Navy in Florida, and Robert Wray Edwards at home; 4 sisters, Mrs. S. J. Jobe and Mrs. T. W. Graham, both of Akron, OH, Mrs. Flora Williams of East Bank, WV and Miss Rose Sparks, Yatesville, KY and one brother, J. B. Sparks, Lexington, KY. Big Sandy News, May 28, 1943

EDWARDS, Martha Ella

Mrs. Martha Ella Edwards, 64, died Wednesday May 12 at her residence in Pike County, OH, after an illness of 2 years of asthma. She is survived by her husband, George Duffy Edwards, a son Everett Edwards of Firebrick, KY and 4 grandchildren. Mrs. Edwards was a native of Lawrence county, KY and had lived in Pike county, OH for the last nine years. Funeral services were held Saturday in the Firebrick Baptist Church with interment in Firebrick Cemetery. Big Sandy News, May 21, 1943

FANNIN, Mrs. Mollie (Hogan)

Mrs. Mollie HOgan Fannin, 63, died Monday at her home in Boyd County. Mrs. Bascom Fannin of this county is a sister of the deceased. John and Drew Hogan of Boyd County are brothers. Big Sandy News, May 21, 1943

FISHER, Ben

Ben Fisher, 50, died Tuesday night at the home of his father, Bill Fisher, in the High Bottom section of Louisa. He had been sick six months. Funeral was conducted Thursday afternoon in Pine Hill Cemetery with Rev. W. B. Curnutte officiating. Besides his father he is survived by a sister, Mrs. Carl Forbay of Ohio. Big Sandy News, May 7,1 943

GILLUM, James Meredith

James Meredith Gillum, 67, native of Elliott county and office manager of the Emory Gillum Wholesale Meat Company in Ashland, died Sunday at his home in Ashland. He was a brother of John Gillum of Burke and Charles Gillum of Sandy Hook. Big Sandy News, May 28, 1943

HANLEY, Consie

Fort Gay, WV, May 6--Consie Hanley, 70, prominent Wayne county farmer, died early Wednesday morning at his home on Tabor's Creek, a few miles from here. He had been ill 2 weeks of a heart ailment. Funeral rites will be conducted Friday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Tabor's Creek Baptist Church, and interment will be made in the Hanley family cemetery near the home. Mr. Hanley was a son of the late A. C. and Julia Ferguson Hanley. He operated a farm on Tabor's Creek and was one of the sections' respected citizens. For 12 years he served as a cook for the N & W Railway, retiring 5 years ago. He had been a member of the Big Hurricane Baptist Church for more than half a century. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Grace Christian Hanley, a daughter, Mrs. Frank McKinster, Ceredo, WV, and 2 sons, Gus Hanley of Route 1, Fort Gay and Anderville Hanley of Huntington. Big Sandy News, May 7, 1943

HAYES, Dr. W. A.

1876-1943

Dr. W. A. Hayes, 66, a practicing physician in Lawrence county for a third of a century and one of its beloved citizens, died shortly after midnight the morning of Saturday May 22 at his home in Louisa. Dr. Hayes had been suffering from a heart ailment for nearly 2 years, but had continued to practice his profession. He became slightly ill the previous day but continued in his office until evening. He, however, was feeling to bad to attend the high school commencement that evening, as he had planned, and retired about 11 p.m. He died in his sleep shortly after midnight of a coronary occlusion. Dr. Hayes was born at Adams, this county, Sep 23, 1876, a son of the late James L. and Arta Berry Hayes, pioneer citizens of the county. He attended college at Lebanon, OH, receiving his A. B. degree. He then entered the Hospital College of Medicine in Louisville and studied medicine 3 years. Then he studied at the University of Louisville Medical department one year, graduating there in 1908. Returning to this section, he became associated with Dr. H. H. Hatfield and practiced with him in the West Virginia coal fields 2 years. He returned to his home county in 1910 and commenced practicing at Adams. He remained at Adams, until moving to Louisa 17 years ago and had practiced here since. He had been on the staff of the Louisa General Hospital since shortly after it was established here in A quiet and kindly man, interested in the welfare of all people, Dr. Hayes numbered his friends in the hundreds throughout the county. For more than 33 years he had traveled into the remotest parts of the county, riding horseback a great part of the time, and through any and all weather, day and night, to administer to the sick. He continued to serve  his patients to the end despite a knowledge that his own condition was serious. His passing will be deeply mourned by hundreds.

Dr. Hayes had been a member of the Methodist Church for 27 years. He was a devoted member of the First Methodist Church here and had served as a member of the official board. An assemblage which filled the church to overflowing attended the funeral, which was held in the First Methodist Church in Louisa Monday afternoon. Many people from the rural sections and from other towns attended the rites. The floral offering was profuse, testifying  to the high esteem in which the deceased was held. Rev. L. D. Rounds, pastor of the church, preached the funeral sermon. Rev. Sylvester Ball and Rev. George A. Thompson each made brief personal remarks and Rev. William Burgess offered the prayer. Rev. C. L. Neff read the scripture. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery overlooking Louisa under the direction of Curtright Funeral Home. Dr. Hayes is survived by his wife, Mrs. Monnie Moore Hayes; 2 daughters, Miss Artha Ruth and Miss Sue, at home; 3 sons, Paul E. Hayes, Washington, D. C., Carl Hayes, U. S. Navy stationed at Memphis, TN and Jeff Hayes at home, 2 brothers, John Hayes of Louisa and Lee Hayes, of Adams. Big Sandy news, May 28, 1943

HUGHES, Shirley (Newsome)

Mrs. Shirley Newsome Hughes, 28, wife of James Hughes of Yatesville died Tuesday night in an Ironton hospital where she had been a patient 3 days. The body was returned to this county and funeral services will be conducted Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the home of Mrs. Belle Hughes at Morgan's Creek and interment made in a cemetery there. Deceased was a daughter of Jeff Newsome and the late Sarah Ferrell Newsome. She was a member of the Methodist Church. Surviving besides the husband and father are 2 children, Donnie Jean and Emily Hughes, at home, 3 sisters, Mrs. Ottis Rice, Dennis, KY and Misses Lela and Ernestine Newsome at home; and 4 brothers, Lafe Newsome, U. s. Army at Camp Campbell, KY, Charles Newsome, U. S. Army at Fort Thomas, KY and Jeff and James Ottis Newsome, both of Yatesville, Big Sandy News, May 28, 1943

LAMPERT, Thomas D.

Fort Gay, WV, May 18--Thomas D. Lampert, 31, former resident of Fort Gay, died May 14 at his home in Mansfield, OH. The body was returned to Fort Gay Monday and funeral was conducted in the Fort Gay Methodist Church Tuesday afternoon with Rev. Enos Scraggs officiating. Interment was made in the Frasher Cemetery at Fort Gay. Deceased was born and reared in Fort Gay, a son of the late T. K. and Eunice Hancock Lampert. For the past several months he had been employed as a carpenter in defense work at Mansfield and prior to that was an employee of the Erie Railway. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Pearl Lampert; 2 sisters, Mrs. Claude Slusher, Roanoke, VA and Mrs. Wayne B. Ferguson, Denver, CO and 3 brothers, Claude Lampert, Fort Gay, WV, Howard Lampert, Van Wert, OH and Lewis Lampert, Portsmouth, OH. Big Sandy News, May 21, 1943

MARKS, Anna (Burchett)

Mrs. Anna Burchett Marks, 51, widow of the late J. L. Marks, of Huntington, and a native of this county, dropped dead on a street in Huntington Wednesday, relatives here have been informed. Funeral will be conducted in Huntington and the body will be taken to Cincinnati for interment beside her late husband. Mrs. Marks, a daughter of Tom H. Burchett and the late Mrs. Burchett, was born and reared at Deephole near Louisa. She is survived by 1 son, Sam Marks of Huntington and her father. Big Sandy News, May 7, 1943

MCGUIRE, Olive Myrtle (Boggs)

Blaine, KY May 12--Mrs. Olive Myrtle McGuire, 44, wife of Morris McGuire, of Blaine, died suddenly Saturday night at her home of a heart attack. Deceased was a daughter of the late Wash and Miranda Edwards Boggs and was born and reared on Caines Creek. Funeral was conducted Tuesday morning at the home and interment was made in the family cemetery. Besides the husband, she is survived by one daughter, Opal McGuire of Columbus, OH, one son, John H. McGuire of Akron, OH, 3 sisters, Mrs. Harry Griffith, Hannah, Mrs. George Maddox, Dobbins, and Mrs. Cora Boggs, Martha and 5 brothers, Harry Boggs, Blevins, Henry Boggs, Warnock, KY, Troy Boggs, Ashland, Charles Boggs, Ashville, OH and John M. Boggs, Blaine. Big Sandy New, May 14, 1943

PERRY, Clarence

Clarence Perry, 12, of Prichard, WV, died Saturday May 15, in a Huntington hospital. Funeral services were conducted at the Prichard Memorial Methodist Church with Rev. Wood and Rev. Roy Bellomy officiating. Burial was in the Davis Cemetery. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Myrtle Perry Gilkerson, a step brother, John D. Gilkerson, 3 step sisters, Emma Edna, Joyce and Connie Gilkerson all of Prichard. Big Sandy News, May 28, 1943

PHILLIPS, Sarah (Slone)

Mrs. Sarah Phillips, 41, wife of Coy S. Phillips, of Blaine died at her home Sunday morning at 10 a.m. after an illness of 5 years. Funeral rites were conducted Tuesday afternoon at the home with Rev. Dave Hulett, of Fallsburg, officiating, and interment was made in the Gambill Cemetery at Blaine. The Phillips family purchased, a farm in the Blaine section 6 years ago and moved from Waynesburg, KY. She was a daughter of the late John and Rosetta Cantrell Slone, native of Pike county. Surviving besides the husband, are 4 daughters and 4 sons, Evelyn, Pauline, Christine, Norma, Charles, Carl, Conley and Lester, all at home. Big Sandy News, May 7, 1943

PHILPOTT, Theresa Ann

Fort Gay, WV, May 11--Theresa Ann Philpott, 2 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence B. Philpott, former Fort Gay residents, died Monday at the Philpott home in Mansfield, OH. The body was returned to Fort Gay and funeral was conducted Wednesday from the home of Mr. and Mrs. N. B. Peters in Fort Gay, with Rev. Enos Scraggs officiating and interment made in the Philpott family cemetery near Saltpetre. The Philpott family moved to Mansfield a year and half ago from Fort Gay. Surviving besides the parents are 2 brothers, Carey Burgess and Larry, at home and the grandfathers, J. S. Philpott, of Fort Gay and K. P. Moulder of Starratt, WV. Big Sandy News, May 14. 1943

RATCLIFF, Dennie

Fort Gay, WV, May 26--Dennie Ratcliff, 42, who lived on the left fork of Bull Creek, near Crum, died May 13, of gunshot wound reported to have been self-inflicted. He was the father of 10 children. Mr. Ratcliff, it is reported, placed the muzzle of the shotgun against the side of his dead and used a forked stick to discharge the weapon. Part of his head was blown away. Cause of his action was not learned, although he is reported to have worried about the war. He has a son and a brother in the army. The shooting took place in the yard at his home. Funeral services were held at the home and burial was in the family cemetery on Bull Creek. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Mary Ratcliff, 10 children, Pvt. Donald Ratcliff of Camp McCain, Miss., Mose, Dorothy, Helen, Colista, Thomas, Jack, Loretta, Lacy, and Nancy Josephine Ratcliff, all at home; his mother, six brothers, John Ratcliff of Stonecoal, WV, W. M. Ratcliff, of Crum, G. W. Ratcliff of Fort Gay, L. P. Ratcliff of Baltimore, MD, Walter Ratcliff of Portsmouth, OH, and Sgt. Ermel Ratcliff of Philadelphia, PA and 2 sisters,  Mrs. Ida Brumfield of Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Minerva Stafford of Panther, WV. Big Sandy News, May 28, 1943

RIGGS, P. J.

J. Riggs, 83, of Buffalo, Kenova route, died at his home May 18, following a stroke. He is survived by the widow, a son, James Riggs, at home, 6 children by a former marriage, Mrs. J. T. Hawes of Ceredo, Mrs. James Brumfield and Mrs. Hubert Smith of Kenova, Mrs. Drury Sammons and Millard Riggs of Buffalo, Pearlie Riggs of Huntington, 6 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, a sister, Mrs. Emma Dean, of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, May 28, 1943

ROSE, Charles C.

Charles C. Rose, 51, federal government whisky gauger under indictment on a charge of possessing non-tax paid liquor, was found shot to death at his home in Frankfort, KY, last Thursday. Coroner Louis Lecompte pronounced the death a suicide. Rose, employed at distilleries in Frankfort for 6 years, recently waived preliminary hearing. H. B. Taylor, district supervisor of Government whiskey gaugers said at the time of Rose's arrest that whiskey was found in Rose's automobile and at his home. There was no indication Rose obtained the liquor to sell an official here said. A native of Elliott County, Rose is survived by his widow and 3 children. Big Sandy News, May 21, 1943

SALYERS, Jay

1906-1943

Jay Salyer, 27, farmer of Adams, died Monday morning after a 2 day illness. Deceased was born and reared in this county, a son of B. F. and Amanda Brown Salyers. He had been a member of the Baptist Church 4 years. Funeral was conducted Tuesday afternoon at the Enterprise Baptist Church on Brushey with Rev. Hood Wallin and Rev. Arthur Morris officiating. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Zelda Goins Salyers, 2 sons, Charles and Lowell, at home, 2 daughters, Marie and Frances at home; by his parents, 2 sisters, Mrs. Hubert Sturgill, Cherokee and Miss Leilla Salyers, Adams, and 3 brothers, Eslie and Walter Salyers of Adams and Junior Salyers, Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, May 14, 1943

THOMPSON, George

George Thompson, 59, farmer of the Meades Branch section on Louisa R. F. D. No 1, died at his home Thursday at noon. He had been ill 2 years of a heart ailment. Funeral was conducted Saturday morning at the home with Rev. Arlie Blackburn and Rev. Trigg Fraley officiating, and interment was made in the Thompson family cemetery. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Sarah Moore Thompson, 2 daughters, Mrs. Roy Vanhoose, Mechanicsburg, OH and Mrs. Mitchell Boyd, Louisa route 1, 4 sons, Milt Thompson, Noris, Ern Thompson, Louisa, route 1, and Clyde and Grayden Thompson both of Charley; 3 sisters, Mrs. William Workman and Mrs. H K. Miller, both of Louisa route 1 and Mrs. Thomas McCowan of Minnie, KY and 2 brothers, Millard Thompson, Marysville, OH and Bert Thompson, Louisa, route 1. Big Sandy News, May 14, 1943\

VANOVER, Aaron

Aaron Vanover, 79, brother of James Vanover of Adeline, died Monday at his home in West Hamlin, WV. Big Sandy News, May 14, 1943

VAUGHAN, Julia (Warnick)

Mrs. Julia Ann Vaughan, 86, widow of the late William Vaughan, of Richardson, died Thursday evening at Richardson after a 2 weeks illness of pneumonia and complications. Mrs. Vaughan, a daughter of the late William and Jane Preston Warnick, was born and reared at Richardson and had spent all of her life there. She was a devout member of the Richardson Methodist Church and was one of the community's best loved women. Funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Warnick family cemetery at Richardson, J. C. Hager of Louisa, officiated the funeral. Interment was made in the Warnick family cemetery. Mrs. Vaughan is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. W. F. Troxel of Ashland, KY and Mrs. C. M. Preston of Corbin, KY and Mrs. Arch Childers of Auxier, KY, one sister, Mrs. Tom Layne, Ashland, KY and one brother, William Warnick of Richardson. Her husband died in 1935. Big Sandy News, May 14, 1943

JUNE 1943

ADAMS, Elwood

19181-1943

In loving memory of our beloved son, Pfc. Elwood Adams, born Oct 12, 1918, age 24 years 8 months and 5 days. He was the son of Mrs. Tennie Poe Adams, of Sunbury, OH and the late John Adams, He departed this life on May 17,1 943. He was fatally injured in a tank accident that occurred during training on maneuvers near Camp Young, CA. His body was returned to Lawrence county for burial. He was laid to rest in the Harmon cemetery. He is sadly missed by his mother, Mrs. Tennie Poe Adams, his 5 brothers and 2 sisters. Monroe of Detroit, MI, Jesse sand Isaac of Sunbury, OH, Pvt. Willie at Camp Campbell, KY, Pvt. Herman at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Mrs. Ray White, of Rits, WV, and Mrs. Willie Kitchen of Sunbury, OH. Funeral was conducted by Rev. Dave Hewlett at the home of Sam Poe. He is missed by a host of friends and relatives. He was like by everyone who knew him. He is gone but not forgotten. Never will his memory fade, Sweetest thoughts will ever linger, Around the grave where he is laid. From this world of pain and sorrow To the land of peace and rest  God has taken you, dear loved one. Where you have found eternal rest. His mother and family. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

ANDERSON, Harold

Harold Anderson, 17, son of Mrs. Belle Osborn Anderson of Hewlett, WV and the late George Anderson, was drowned in Big Sandy river near Hewlett Sunday afternoon while swimming. Anderson, back home on a visit from Rittman, OH, where he had been working for the Erie Railway, went in swimming with his brothers, Sunday afternoon and got in swift water over his head. An older brother, Jesse, 22, tried to rescue him but was nearly drowned and had to come to shore. Neighbors succeeded in recovering the body Monday morning after dragging the river for several hours. Funeral was conducted Tuesday afternoon at the home of his mother and interment was made in the Potter Cemetery at the mouth of Blaine in Kentucky. The youth's father was drowned in Big Sandy River near the same place in 1935. Besides the mother, he is survived by 4 brothers, Jesse, James and William all at home, and Frank in the U. S. Army over seas and 4 sisters, Mrs. Rufus Burk, Fullers, KY, Mrs. Creed Bates and Mrs. Earl Hall, both of Pigeon, KY and Mrs. Dallas Blair, Lookout, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 18, 1943

BAYS, William H.

William H. Bays, 85, pioneer Carter county citizen, died Monday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Hattie Wagner. Funeral was conducted Thursday in the Christian Church at Willard. Leonard Bays of Webbville is a son. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

BEVINS, Fernistean

The body of Fernistean Bevins, age 9, daughter of Thomas and Sarah Bevins, who was killed by a C & O train near the home at Lockbourne, OH, Wednesday of last week, was brought to this county last Friday and taken to Georges Creek, the family's former home, for funeral and interment. The dead girl's sister, Darlene, 6, suffered severe shock and a fractured arm when hit by the same train. The sisters, accompanied by their brother, Ervin, were walking on the track on their way from a store and the brother told officers he screamed to warn his sisters of the approaching train but that they did not hear him. According to the telegraph operator at Lockbourne station, the engineer on the train was unaware of the accident and did not stop the train. Lockbourne is near Beaver, OH. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

BLANKENSHIP, Burch

Burch Blankenship, 69, was found dead in bed at his home in Louisa Thursday morning. He had died sometime during the night of a heart attack, Coroner H. S. Young reported. Funeral arrangements had not been made at the time the News went to press. Mr. Blankenship was born in 1874 on Potter Branch, 4 miles below Louisa, a son of William and Mildred Hewlett Blankenship. He resided for many years at 2 mile and had lived in Louisa a year. He is survived by 2 sons, Paris of Paintsville and Frank of Lockwood; 4 daughters, Mrs. Okie Stith, Martin, KY, Mrs. George McGuire, Lockwood, KY, Mrs. E. A. Dunaway, Olive Hill, KY, and Mrs. Cora Brown of Virginia, one brother, Dan Blankenship of Louisa and one sister, Mrs. C. M. Evans of Chandler, OK. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

BOGGS, Lon

Lon Boggs, 42, a resident of the East Fork section and a native of Caines Creek, died Thursday evening of last week of a sudden heart attack at his home on the Mayo Trial near the mouth of Seedtick. A son of Will and Carnola Holbrook Boggs, he was born on Caines Creek, but had resided in Boyd County many years and was employed by the Rural Highways division. He moved to Lawrence county last February. Funeral was conducted Sunday at the Pilgrim Holiness Church on Bolts Fork and interment was made in the Bolt Cemetery in this county. Surviving are his mother, Mrs. Will N. Boggs of Ironton, OH, his wife, Mrs. Esta Sammons Boggs, 3 sons, Norman E., Earl F. and Donald J. Boggs, all at home; one daughter, Mary Sue Boggs, 2 brothers, Henry Boggs of Buchanan, and Carl Boggs of Chester, PA and 5 sisters, Mrs. Fred Elswick of Catlettsburg, Mrs. Edward Rogers of Crystal, KY, Mrs. Arnold Huff of Ironton, OH and Mrs. Henry McGinnis and Miss Edith Boggs, both of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Jun 18, 1943

BRADLEY, Angie (Skaggs)

Mrs. Angie Skaggs Bradley, 42, wife of W. N. Bradley, died Sunday night at the Bradley home at Lowmansville following an illness on 9 months. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the Chestnut Grove Church with Rev. Brack Skaggs, of Lowmansville and Rev. Bird Webb of Ulysses officiating. Deceased, a daughter of Lewis M. Skaggs and the late Hester Griffith Skaggs. She had been a member of the Freewill Baptist Church for 15 years. Surviving besides the father and husband, are 2 sisters, Mrs. Charles Deboard of Greasy Ridge, OH and Mrs. Will Burton of Louisa route 2, and 3 brothers, Charles Skaggs, of Akron, OH, and Burns and John Skaggs of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

BURK, Hiram

The body of Hiram Burk, 50, whose body was found on the C & O Railway at Dawkins Junction near Paintsville, Sunday morning, was shipped to his home at Fullers, this county, for funeral and interment. Time of the funeral has not been set, pending the arrival of 2 sons, Paris and James H. Burk, who are serving in the Army. Deceased, a son of Mrs. Julia Fitzpatrick Burk and the late William Burk, was born and reared at Fullers. He was employed by the C & O Railway as a member of Wm. Peterman's  extra force and had left home Saturday morning to go to Jenkins to get his pay check. The Johnson County coroner said Burk enroute home stopped in Paintsville and that he was last seen shortly after midnight Sunday morning at the Paintsville Depot where he told friends he was going to nearby camp cars. His body was found next morning by a railway employee. Death was caused by head injuries. Guy Preston, Johnson County coroner, said he evidently tried to catch a passing freight train and was thrown to the ground. His head and torso bore numerous lacerations and he suffered concussion. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Anna Davis Burk, 6 sons, William T., James H., Paris L., John, William H. and Jackie and 1 daughter, Mrs. Mary R??e, his mother, Mrs. Julia Fitzpatrick Burk, of Fullers, and 1 brother, Lyss Burk, a government guard at the war plant at South Point, OH. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

CHAPMAN, N. B.

B Chapman, 83, of Ashland, a native of this county died Tuesday in the King's Daughters' Hospital in Ashland after a month's illness. Mr. Chapman was born in this county Jan 13, 1860, a son of Elijah H. and Mary McClure Chapman. He attended the University of Kentucky and was a member of the Methodist Church. He resided in Louisa at one time, but had resided in Ashland the past 25 years. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Ida Belle Porter Chapman, one son, Lt. James W. Chapman, Army Air Force, Hawaii and one daughter, Miss Lucille Chapman at home. Funeral will be conducted Friday afternoon at 3 in the Lazier Funeral Home, Ashland, and interment will be made at Ashland. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

CLARK, Mrs. A. G.

Mrs. A. G. Clark, 72, of Lenore, WV, native of this county, died May 18 of injuries sustained when she was hit by a C & O train at Wilkinson, near Logan, WV, while visiting her stepdaughter, Mrs. J. A. White. Mrs. Clark was born in this county, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arch Borders. Her husband, now retired, is a former justice of the peace at Lenore. Burial was made at Kermit, WV. Survivors include her husband, and the following children by a former marriage. Everett Maynard of Huntington, Eula of Huntington, Garnet of Pittsburgh, PA and Mrs. George Dawson of Kermit. She also leaves 2 sisters, Mrs. Cordelia Blankenship of Kermit and Mrs. Milton Preston, Lawrence county and one brother, John Borders of Dingess. Big Sandy News, Jun 18,1 943

CLARK, Sarah Kathleen

Sarah Kathleen, 26, colored, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Clark, died Wednesday evening at the Clark home here following an illness of one year. Funeral will be conducted Friday afternoon at 2:30 from the Louisa A. M. E. Church with Rev. J. C. Hager officiating and interment will be made in Pine Hill Cemetery here. Deceased had been a member of the A.M.E. Church for a number of years. Surviving besides her parents are a sister, Phoebe at home, and 4 brothers, George W. Clark, Cincinnati, Alexander Clark, U. S. Army at Camp Sutton, NC and Fred and Tom Clark of Louisa and the grandmother, Mrs. Sarah Clark, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

CRABTREE, Miquell David

Miquell David Crabtree, day old son of Hubert and Helen Zercles Crabtree of Busseyville, died Sunday afternoon in a Louisa hospital. Funeral was conducted Monday morning at the Zercles cemetery near Busseyville. Surviving besides the parents, are a brother, Jackie and the grandfather, E. E. Zercles of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

CRANK, Nannie (Short)

Mrs. Nannie Short Crank, native of this county died Tuesday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Guy Collins in Huntington. Mrs. Crank, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Short of the Fallsburg section, was the widow of James F. Crank, for many years a building contractor in Ashland. She had lived in Huntington the past 3 years. She was a member of the Methodist Church. Surviving are 2 daughters, Mrs. Guy Collins of Huntington, Mrs. Normo Giora of Huntington, Technical Corporal William H. Crank and Technical Corporal Homer Crank both with the U. S. Army at Fort Lewis, WA, 1 sister, Mrs. Homer P. Nearns of Charleston, WV also survives. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

DELONG, Margie

Miss Margie DeLong, 47, of the Twin Branch section, died early Thursday morning in a Louisa hospital after an illness of six months. Deceased was born in Martin County, a daughter of the late William and Malinda Meadows DeLong. She had been a member of the Christian Church for 30 years. Funeral will be conducted Saturday morning at 11 from the DeLong cemetery on Twin Branch. Surviving are a sister, Mrs. M. L. McCoy, Louisa route 3 and 4 brothers, E. H. and Jerry DeLong both of Akron, OH and Oliver and Joe DeLong both of Louisa route 3. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

EVANS, Anthony

Mr. Anthony Evans, 72, prominent Mingo county citizen, died of a heart attack last Friday at his home at Kermit. He was born on Long Branch near Naugatuck, a son of James and Polly Evans, and was one of the first timber contractors in the Tug River section. Dr. A. E. Evans of Kermit is a brother. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

FERGUSON, James D.

1865-1943

James D. Ferguson, 77, native of Blaine section, died Friday at his home at South Bloomfield, near Columbus, O, following an illness of several months. He was born Dec 4, 1865, at Blaine a son of Meredith and Rebecca Rice Ferguson, He married Arminda Boggs in 1884. He moved to Ohio in 1909 residing in Wheelersburg and was engaged with a son, Isaac W. Ferguson for 30 years in farming in the Wheelersburg section. He lived for a time at Warnock, Greenup County. Funeral was conducted Sunday at Warnock, KY and burial made there. Surviving are his wife and his son, who now is located at Lockbourne, OH. He also leaves 3 grandchildren, Miss Eugenia and Phillip Ferguson of Lockbourne and Maxwell Ferguson of Williamsport; 3 great grandchildren and 3 sisters, Mrs. William Gambill of Sistersville, WV, Mrs. Maggie Evans of Louisa and Mrs. Lydia Foster of Chicago and a brother, Meredith Ferguson of Blaine. A son and daughter preceded him in death. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

HAMMONDS, Pliny

Miss Pliny Hammonds, 61, of Webb, route 1, died Sunday at her home on Rockcastle Creek. Funeral was conducted Monday morning at the home of Willie Gable and interment made in the Hammonds cemetery. Deceased was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hammonds. Big Sandy news, Jun 11, 1943

HAYES, Norman Randall

Norman Randall Hayes, 13 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. L. B. Hayes of Georges Creek, died in a Louisa hospital Tuesday afternoon following a 9 day illness of appendicitis and peritonitis. He had been a patient in the hospital 5 days. Funeral was conducted Thursday afternoon at the home at Georges Creek and interment made in the family cemetery there. The deceased attended the Meade consolidated school and the Bells Chapel Sunday school. Surviving are the parents, one sister, Frances Lois and one brother, Therman Wray Hayes, both at home and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William Hayes and Fred Castle, all of Louisa route 1. Big Sandy News, Jun 18, 1943

HOWE, Mrs. Nora (Brown)

1881-1943

Mrs. Nora Brown Howe, 62, wife of Cleve Howe of the Lewisburg section near Maysville, KY, died Wednesday of last week at the home of Mrs. Lou Helvey in Maysville of paralysis. Deceased was born in Lawrence County, July 7, 1881, a daughter of Joseph and Finetta Duncan  Brown. She is survived by her husband, 4 daughters and 5 sons. Mrs. Martha Rose of Louisa is a sister. Funeral and burial was at Lewisburg. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

HYLTON, Annias

Gallup, KY, Jun 14--Annias Hylton, who had been seriously ill for some time, passed away Sunday morning at 7 a.m. He was loved and respected by all. Funeral was conducted by Z. W. Chapman and interment was made in the Peck Cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Belle Hylton, 2 daughters, Mrs. Lucy France of Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Jerry Moore of Gallup, and one son, Charley Hylton of Portsmouth and one step daughter, Mrs. Milt Parker of Gallup. Big Sandy News, Jun 18, 1943

JONES, Harry Millard

A memorial service for Corporal Harry Millard Jones, 25, of Salyersville, reported missing in action in India on March 12, will be conducted in the Christian Church in Salyersville, Sunday, Jun 13 at 2:30. Rev. Gabriel C. Banks, of Morehead will deliver the sermon. Cpl. Jones was a son of Mrs. Ella Millard Jones, of Magoffin County, a sister, of Dr. F. A. Millard, of Louisa. He enlisted 2 years ago and was serving in the Army Air Force as a radioman when his plane was lost March 12. Big Sandy news, Jun 11, 1943

JUDD, Arminta Frances (Roberts)

Mrs. Arminta Frances Judd, 56, native of near Louisa, died Friday of last week at her home in Sciotoville, Portsmouth, OH, following an illness of the last 2 years of complications. Deceased was born at Deephole Branch, near Louisa, a daughter of the late Reuben C. and Emorilla Diamond Roberts, pioneer citizens of the county. She taught in the rural school of the county in her early womanhood, and was married to James S. Judd in 1900. They lived near Charley for 17 years and moved to Sciotoville 27 years ago. She was a member of the Sciotoville Methodist Church, the Ladies Aid Society and the Eastern Star. The body was returned to Lawrence county and final rites were conducted Sunday afternoon at the family cemetery at Deephole Branch with Rev. L. D. Rounds, pastor of the Louisa First Methodist Church, officiating. Besides the husband, she is survived by 3 children, Mrs. Virginia Ball, Bluefield, WV, Kermit Judd, Columbus, OH, and Robert Judd, at home, 2 brothers, W. L. Roberts of Louisa and John B. "Bristo" Roberts of Deephole Branch and 3 sisters, Mrs. S. J. Picklesimer of Louisa, Mrs. Eugene Crank of Fallsburg and Mrs. George B. Hayes of Louisa and Detroit. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

LAUHON, Tom

Thom H. Lauhon, 53, of Catlettsburg, one time Kentucky Railroad Commissioner, died in an Ashland hospital Saturday. Funeral was conducted in Catlettsburg's Methodist Church Monday and interment made there. He was a son of Charles H. and Susan Meeks Lauhon and was born and reared in Catlettsburg where he was active in civic and fraternal circles. he was employed for many years as salesman for Hagen-Ratcliff Company of Huntington. Last year he accepted a position with the government at the Air Service Command. Patterson Field,, near Dayton, OH and was engaged in this work there when he became ill. Big Sandy news, Jun 4, 1943

LESTER, Vinnie (Bloss)

Fort Gay, WV, Jun 1--Mrs. Vinnie Bloss Lester, 73, wife of Rufus Lester, former State Representative and a prominent Wayne County farmer, died at 1:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Lester home on Fort Gay, route 1, 10 miles east of Fort Gay on the Wayne road. She had been in failing health for a number of years. Funeral rites will be conducted Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the Greenbriar Baptist Church with Rev. Carmi Crabtree and Rev. Henry Mullins officiating. Interment will be made in the Mt. Vernon cemetery on U. S. 52 7 miles east of Wayne. Mrs. Lester, a daughter of the late Valentine and Priscilla McClure Bloss, pioneer citizens, was born and reared in Wayne County near Dixon. She had been a member of the Baptist church for 44 years. Surviving besides the husband are one daughter, Mrs. C. L. Matthews of Huntington, WV, one son, Harry L. Lester of Fort Gay, route 1, one sister, Mrs. Julia Ellis of Kenova, WV, and 3 brothers, P. E. and G. C. Bloss, both of Kenova, WV and W. B. Bloss of Columbia, TN. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

LUSK, Chester

Fort Gay, WV, Jun 8-- Chester Lusk, 51, operator of Chet's Place in Fort Gay died Saturday night in St. Mary's hospital in Huntington after becoming suddenly ill here earlier that day. His death was ascribed to a heart condition. A native of Wyoming county, Mr. Lusk, had resided in Fort Gay the past four years. His wife, who recently submitted to an operation in a Columbus hospital, remains seriously ill at the home of relatives in Huntington. The body of Mr. Lusk was taken to Mullins, WV for funeral and interment. Big Sandy News, Jun 11, 1943

MAGANN, Sally (Ford)

Mrs. Sally Ford Magann, 59, widow of C. C. "Chet" Magann, formerly of Catlettsburg, died Wednesday of last week following a stroke and the body was brought back to Catlettsburg for funeral and burial. Big Sandy news, Jun 18, 1943

MCGLOTHLIN, Jay Vinson

1913-1943

Pvt. Jay Vinson McGlothlin, native of Rush, KY, and a resident of Portsmouth, OH, was fatally injured Sunday when he fell from a roller coaster at Coney Island, near Cincinnati. Pvt. McGlothlin, former operator of the tire repair shop in Portsmouth known as "Jay' s Place" was inducted into the Army May 30 and was stationed at Fort Thomas, KY. Conley Island officials said that member of McGlothlin's party riding with him could not explain how the accident happened. The body was returned to Portsmouth Monday for funeral. Pvt. McGlothlin was born at Rush, KY, Oct 14, 1913, a son of Traber and Hermia Vinson McGlothlin. He moved to Portsmouth with his family when he was 6. Besides the parents, he is survived by his wife and daughter, aged 7, 2 sisters and a brother. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

MEADE, August

Staff Sgt. August Meade, son of Mrs. Verdantsle Meade of Weeksburg, was reported by the War Department this week as killed in action in the Middle East. Big Sandy News, Jun 25, 1943

MICKLES, Sphia Helton

Mrs. Sophia Helton Mickles, 17, wife of Warren K. Mickles and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Watt Helton of Catlettsburg, died Wednesday of last week and was interred in the Shepherd cemetery near Webbville. She was the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Monroe Blevins of Willard. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

MORRIS, Crate

Crate Morris, native of this county, was killed May 11 in a motor vehicle accident in the Pacific war theatre. He was serving as a technician in the Army, having volunteered at Columbus, OH 3 years ago. Morris, a son of Daniel J. Morris of Lucasville, OH and the late Mary Kimbler Morris, was born and partly reared on Caines Creek, this county. Big Sandy news, Jun 11, 1943

PENNINGTON, Nannie E. (Rice)

1894-1943

Mrs. Nannie E. Pennington, 48, wife of A. M. Pennington of South Shore, near Portsmouth, OH, died suddenly Monday morning at her home of a heart attack. She had been ill for 2 weeks and had been a patient in a Portsmouth hospital until 2 days before her death, when her condition apparently improved. She was born Aug 19, 1894, at Willard, KY, a daughter of James and Elizabeth Rice. Surviving are her husband and these children: James l. of Baltimore, Jack C. of Portsmouth, William D. of the army stationed in Idaho, Roy of the signal corps at Lexington, Addie M. Jr. of the army stationed at Nashville, TN, Celia Margaret, Mary Frances, Donald Ray and Ronald Lee at home. She also leaves these sisters and brothers, Mrs. James Britts of Pittsburgh, Charles rice of Princess, KY, Alf Rice of St. Louis, MO, Mrs. Herdy Pope and John Rice of Akron, Lloyd Rice of Ashland and Clarence Rice of Huntington. Big Sandy news, Jun 25, 1943

PERTEE, Alice (Marcum)

Mrs. Alice Marcum Pertee, 64, died Tuesday morning at her home at Crum, WV. She was born at Bull Creek, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Marcum. She is survived by her husband, Kelly Pertee, and 8 sons and 2 daughters. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

ROWE, Harry Curtis

The body of a man found at noon Wednesday on the bank of the Ohio river near Ashland Armco plant was identified Wednesday night as that of Harry Curtis Rowe, 26, of Fort Gay, WV. The body, badly decomposed, was removed to the Yelton Funeral Home in Ashland and is being held there pending funeral arrangements. Two cards, one bearing the name of Rowe and the other that of James Elmo Conley, Louisa, KY were found on the body. Conley was called to Ashland and he identified the body as that of Rowe. Rowe left his home in Fort Gay May 22 saying he was going to Virginia, according to his mother, Mrs. Gertie Rowe. The youth's father, Harrison Rowe, hanged himself near Fort Gay more than a year ago. Rowe, it was reported in Fort Gay, was discharged from the Army about 8 months ago. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

SPARKS, Dewey

Dewey Sparks, 23, of Mazie, was killed and Herbert Phillips, 23, also of Mazie, was seriously injured by a Pennsylvania Railway passenger train while working on a bridge near Plain City, OH Friday of last week. Sparks was an air hammer operator in a crew helping build a railway bridge across Big Darby Creek near Plain City. The workers were said to have become confused when 2 trains passed on a double track. Phillips and other members of the crew leaped into the creek to avoid being hit. Phillips sustained a head injury and was unconscious for several hours, but relatives reported Wednesday that hospital attaches held hope for his recovery. A third Lawrence county man, a son of Henry Collier of Martha, saved himself by jumping. the body of Sparks was returned to Lawrence County, Saturday and taken to Mazie where funeral and interment took place Sunday. He was a son of Rev. and Mrs. Will Sparks of Mazie, and a grandson of William Barker, Sr. of Mazie. Before going to Ohio to work for the Pennsylvania Railway, he worked as a truck driver for Nelson Sturgill. Phillips, is a son of Mr. and Mrs. George Phillips of Mazie and worked in the oil fields before going to Ohio a few weeks ago. Big Sandy News, Jun 18, 1943

SPARKS, James Alvin

1875-1943

James Alvin Sparks, 68, farmer of route 1 Ashland, and native of Johnson County, died Sunday at his home in Boyd county. A son of the late Tillman and Murray Sparks, he was born near Flat Gap. He married Miss Mary E. Salyer of Flat Gap in 1896, who survives. Big Sandy News, Jun 18, 1943

THOMAS, Ada (Rice)

Mrs. Ada Rice Thomas, 84, widow of the late Ben F. Thomas, former Louisa residents, died Tuesday morning at the Thomas home in Ashland, after an extended illness. Funeral rites will be conducted this afternoon (Thursday) at 2:30 from the Thomas residence at 2618 Forest Avenue, Ashland, with Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor of the Methodist Church in Paintsville, officiating, and the body will be brought to Louisa immediately afterward for burial in Pine Hill Cemetery here beside her husband. Mrs. Thomas, daughter of the late Judge J. M. Rice and Sarah Poage Rice, was born and grew to womanhood in Louisa. After her marriage to Ben F. Thomas, a government engineer, they resided here for a time, moving to Catlettsburg more than 40 years ago, then to Ashland. She was a member of the Louisa Methodist Church. Mrs. Thomas is survived by one daughter, Mrs. George Gunnell, of Catlettsburg. Mrs. Josephine Rice, of Louisa is a sister in law of the deceased. Big Sandy News, Jun 4, 1943

VICARS, Harrison G.

1875-1943

Fort Gay, WV, Jun 23--Harrison G. Vicars, 68, former resident of Fort Gay, died Tuesday morning at his home at Rittman, OH, and the body was returned here Wednesday night. Funeral will be conducted in the Fort Gay Baptist Church Thursday afternoon at 1:30 with Rev. W. Eccles of Rittman, Rev. J. C. Hager of Louisa and Rev. A. B. Milan of Fort Gay officiating and interment will be made in the Billups Gap Cemetery near Fort Gay. Mr. Vicars resided in Fort Gay and nearby for many years, moving to Rittman, OH 18 months ago. He served one term as postmaster here and for many years was employed as toll collector on the Louisa & Fort Gay Bridge. He operated a farm near Fort Gay for many years. Mr. Vicars was born in Scott county, VA and came to Wayne county in his youth. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Myrtle Trent Vicars, 3 daughters, Mrs. Arnold Bellomy, Wadsworth, OH, Mrs. Davis Borders, Gallion, OH and Mrs. Willard Smith, Rittman, OH; 3 sons, Douglas and Joe Vicars of Rittman, OH and James Vicars, serving the U. S. Army over seas, and 2 sisters, Mrs. Jennie Lycan, Parkersburg, WV and Mrs. Martha Bartram, Philadelphia, PA. Big Sandy news, Jun 25, 1943

WILSON, Claudius B.

1916-1943

Drowned Friday night when his canoe overturned on a lake 12 miles from his camp at Fort Dix, New Jersey, the body of Sergeant Claudius B. Wilson, 26, Army Air Force Technician, was returned to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Claude T. Wilson in Louisa, Monday. Relatives were advised of his death Saturday morning, just 5 days after he had returned to camp from a brief furlough here, and the news was a great shock to everyone. He had returned to his post Monday of last week after visiting his wife and parents over the previous week end. The body, which arrived in Louisa, Monday afternoon on C & O train  No. 38, was accompanied by 2 solider in arms, Staff Sergeant Allen Iannuzzi of Philadelphia, and Corporal Robert O. Castle of Ashland, both of whom had been with Sgt. Wilson since they entered the armed forces, and were close friends. Cpl. Castle is a son of Mrs. C. C. Castle of Ashland, formerly of Richardson. Iannuzzi and Castle described the tragedy. Their platoon was on a practice bivouac, and had camped for the night on the edge of resort lake, Cedar Lake, about 12 miles from Fort Dix. Sgt. Wilson and a friend, Sgt. Hessong were in a canoe on the lake. Other soldiers at the camp heard Stg. Hessong yell for help, and another officer, Staff Sergeant Dana Sidebottom, leaped into the lake and swam in the direction of the scream. He reached Sgt. Hessong as he was sinking and brought him to shore where comrades resuscitated him and saved his life. Sgt. Sidebottom and Lt. Michael O'Rourke, of California, went back to the center of the lake where the canoe capsized and dived several time but were unable to find Wilson's body.

Sgt. Hessong, after being resuscitated, told comrades he and Sgt. Wilson started swimming to shore, but Sgt. Wilson being in heavy clothes, commenced going down and that he held him up as long as he could but had to let go when they both went under the water a few yards form shore. Comrades found Wilson's body about 15 or 20 feet from shore. they worked 4 hours over the body before abandoning hope of resuscitation. Sgt. Wilson, a popular young man here was born in Louisa, Sep 9, 1916, a son of Claude T. and Hermia Chapman Wilson, and was reared here. He was graduated from Louisa High School in the class of 1936. He had been in the Army Air Force 2 years and had advanced to the rank of staff sergeant in a maintenance platoon. He regularly attended the Baptist Sunday school while here and was on of 72 members of the class of L. F. Wellman that had entered the armed forces. He is the second of the class to die in service, the other being Jack Branham, killed in a naval battle in the Solomons area. Sgt. Wilson was married last October to Miss Herma Lee Fyffe, daughter of ex-sheriff and Mrs. Proctor Fyffe of Blaine, who survives. Also surviving are his parents, 3 sisters, Mrs. Ralph Cabiness, of Portsmouth, Mrs. R. T. Burns, of Louisa and Miss Betty Lou, at home and 3 brothers, Sgt. Herbert Wilson, assigned to the Army Air Force in Panama, Lawrence Wilson, Louisville and Elmer Wray Wilson, employed at Patterson Field, Dayton, OH. Funeral rites for Sgt. Wilson will be conducted in the Louisa First Baptist church Friday afternoon at 2:30 with the pastor, Rev. J. C. Hager, officiating, and interment will be made in Pine Hill Cemetery hers. The funeral was delayed in the hope that a brother, Sgt. Herbert Wilson, who is serving with the Army Air Force in Panama, could attend. Sgt. Wilson, wired this (Thursday) morning that he had arrived in Houston, TX at 10:45 a.m. Thursday and the Red Cross wired from Washington a few minutes later that he would be flown though on an airplane. Big Sandy News, Jun 18, 1943

YATES, Willia Elizabeth (Diamond)

Mrs. Willia Elizabeth Diamond Yates, 53, wife of Jay Yates of the Deephole section 8 miles from Louisa, died Tuesday morning at the Yates home. She had been in failing health for 2 years and seriously ill for 6 months. Funeral rites were conducted Thursday morning at 10:30 from Myrtle Chapel at Five Forks with Rev. Dave Hewlett officiating, and interment was made in the Myrtle Cemetery. Deceased, a daughter of the late Marion and Minerva Muncy Diamond, was born and reared at Deephole. Besides her husband, she is survived by a daughter, Miss Aileen Yates, at home, 2 sons, Raymond Yates, Detroit, MI and Gordon Yates with the U. S. Army in North Africa; 2 sisters, Mrs. Lee Fuller, Ashland, KY, and Mrs. T. L. Burk, East Point, KY; 3 brothers, G. D. Diamond, Baltimore, MD, W. V. Diamond, Lucasville, OH and J. P. Diamond, Fallsburg, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 11, 1943

JULY 1943

ADAMS, L. C.

C. Adams, 89, well known farmer of the Ellen section, died at his home there Jun 27. He had been an invalid since being injured by a horse four years ago. Funeral was conducted at the home by Rev. William W. Moore and Rev. W. T. Fraley. Mr. Adams was converted and baptized 3 years ago and was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Bertha Blevins of Circleville, OH and 6 sons, Willie, Tom, and Kay Adams all of Urbana, OH, Lee Adams, Circleville, OH, jay Adams in the U. S. Army and Ray Holt Adams, at home. Big Sandy News, Jul 9, 1943

ADAMS, Leander

In long remembrance of our dear father, Leander Adams, age 86 years, who departed this life Jun 27, 1943. Mr. Adams was converted and baptized several years ago. Rev. Willie Moore of Louisa, baptized him and he had lived a true and Christian life ever since. Just a few days before he left this world, he asked all his children and friends to meet him in Heaven for the promise that he had. He is resting in Paradise. We want to thank Brother Moore, Brother Fraley and Brother, Eslie Salyers for their kindness. Also the choir for those beautiful songs. Mr. Adams was laid to rest in the family cemetery Jun 28. He is survived by one daughter and 6 sons, 15 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and an host of friends. Mr. Adams was loved by everybody and had many friends. --A Friend. Big Sandy News, Jul 9, 1943

BEVINS, Gracie Belle

Gracie Belle Bevins, 8 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Junior Bevins of Louisa, route 2, died Jun 10 at 1 p.m. Funeral was held Jun 11 at the See Cemetery where interment was made. Surviving are the father, who is serving in the U. S. Army in California, the mother, who resides on Louisa route 2 and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Marion Thompson, of Louisa route 2. Big Sandy News, Jul 16, 1943

BISHOP, Charles

Charles Bishop, affectionately known as "Uncle Charley", died Monday Jun 28 at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Isaac Lester at Blaine. He was a son of the late George and Elizabeth Bishop, natives of Virginia. He was a member of the United Baptist Church of Brushey and a member of the Masonic lodge. Interment was made in the Bishop family cemetery on Hoods Creek. The Masonic Lodge conducted their ritual at the interment. The deceased is survived by 5 sons, John and Gus Bishop of Ashland, Henry Bishop of Lawrence county, and Tom and Clifford Bishop, now with the U. S. Army overseas; 5 daughters, Mrs. Isaac Lester of Blaine, Mrs. Alex Tatton and Mrs. John Dixon of Ashland, Mrs. Fred Hardey of Plainfield, NJ, and Mrs. Pearl Bishop of Cincinnati and 1 brother, Will Isaac Bishop of Virginia. His wife died 4 years ago. Big Sandy news, Jul 9, 1943

BREWER, Alice (Slone)

Mrs. Alice Slone Brewer, 26, wife of Earl Brewer, died Wednesday morning at their home in Charleston, WV following an illness of 2 years. Deceased, a daughter of Elva J. and Lula Hall Slone, was born and reared in the Georges Creek section near the Johnson county line. the family moved to Charleston 2 and a half years ago. The body was returned to the home of an uncle, M. H. Slone at the mouth of Georges Creek and funeral will be conducted at the Slone home Friday. Besides the husband and parents, Mrs. Brewer is survived by 5 children, 3 brothers, Leroy Slone, Thealka, KY, Grover Slone, Georges Creek and Hansel Slone, Columbus, OH and one sister, Mrs. Ivel Ekers, Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Jul 9, 1943

BURGESS, Dr. Thomas Dickerson

1869-1943

Dr. Thomas Dickerson Burgess, 73, prominent physician and surgeon of Williamson, WV and a former resident of Louisa, died suddenly Thursday afternoon of last week at his summer home in Shelbyville, KY. He had been ill for several months and had retired from active practice about 6 months ago, going to his farm at Shelbyville to rest and recuperate. The body was returned to Williamson Friday evening and funeral was conducted in the Williamson Methodist Church Sunday afternoon. Rev. Fred B. Wyand, pastor of the church and Rev. Cecil Jones, pastor of the Baptist Church officiated. The body was taken to Huntington and interred in the Burgess family plot. Dr. Burgess was born on a farm near St. Albans, Kanawha County, WV, Dec 15, 1869, a son of James W. and Elizabeth Harmon Burgess. He entered Marshall College, Huntington at the age of 17. After 2 years at Marshall, he entered  the Medical College of the University of Maryland at Baltimore and graduated there at the age of 22, one of ten honor students of his class.

He began his professional career at Matewan, WV. He was physician and surgeon for 14 coal companies in that section of West Virginia, then in early development as a coal mining empire. Dr. Burgess gained reputation as an eminent surgeon through successfully performing major operations under extreme disadvantages in private homes before any hospital had been established closer than 100 miles. He moved to Louisa in 1908 and practiced his profession here until 1927 when he moved to Williamson where he had been associated with his brother, Dr. William H. Burgess, since. During his long residence in Louisa he acquired much property and built the 3 story Burgess business building opposite the court house. For a number of years he also operated a large farm south of Louisa. During his long career as a physician and surgeon, his practice extended into all parts of Tug, Levisa and Guyan rivers and into other sections of Eastern Kentucky. Although devoted to his profession, he took an active interest in community affairs. He was a member of the board of directors of the Williamson Chamber of Commerce. He also was a Master Mason and a Knight Templer.  In recent years, Dr. Burgess did graduate work at New York and Baltimore and became an extensive traveler. In 1935 he toured many foreign countries and spent 3 months in the Holy Land. Recently he had purchased a home and small farm in Shelby county, KY with the intention of moving there to retired and was at this place when his sudden death occurred.

Dr. Burgess was married in 1899 to Miss Willie Burgess, of this county, and they were the parents of 3 children, Julia Jane died several years ago. A son, Cornelius Burgess of Narrows, VA and Mrs. K. C. Elswick of Louisa, survive. Also surviving are his widow, Mrs. Bess Harris Burgess, a brother, Dr. William H. Burgess of Williamson, and 2 sisters, Miss Frances Burgess of Huntington, a retired Marshall College instructor, and Mrs. Victoria Shumate of Glyn Lyn, VA. Big Sandy News, Jul 2, 1943

CAREY, George B.

George B. Carey, president of Carey-Reed Construction Company of Lexington and a native of Lawrence county, died Monday at his home in Lexington after a long illness. His death followed 13 days after that of a sister, Mrs. Maude Carey Johnston, who died Jul 13 at the home in Louisa of a sister, Mrs. Emily McDonald. Mr. Carey, a son of the late William and Emily Burgess Carey, was born near Louisa and was reared here. Funeral was conducted in Lexington Thursday and interment made there. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Catherine Reed Carey, one son, Burgess Carey of Lexington, 4 sisters, Mrs. C. W. McDonald and Mrs. D. J. Burchett, both of Louisa, Mrs. J. J. Johnson of Frankfort, KY and Mrs. George B. Roberts, of Memphis, TN and 3 brothers, Charles W. and Lyss Carey, both of Louisa and M. F. Carey of Lexington. Big Sandy News, Jul 30, 1943

CARTER, Emma

1883-1943

Miss Emma Carter, 59, died Saturday morning at the home of a sister, Mrs. Mart Robinett at Adams. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon at 2:30 at the Carter Chapel near Busseyville with Rev. Vess Ball and Rev. William Burgess officiating. A large assemblage attended the rites. Deceased, a daughter of the late Lon and Fannie Thompson Carter, was born and reared at Adams. She had been a member of the Methodist Church since girlhood. Surviving are 2 sisters, Mrs. Mart Robinett, Adams and Mrs. John Ferrell, Hillsboro, OH and one brother, Dock Carter of Busseyville. Big Sandy News, Jul 16, 1943

CHAPMAN, Dewey, Jr.

Dewey Chapman, Jr., 5 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. George Dewey Chapman, of Logan, WV, died Wednesday of last week at the home of his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Hampton Maynard near Clifford. The boy became suddenly ill and expired in an hour. Big Sandy News, Jul 23, 1943

CHAPMAN, Napoleon Bonaparte

1860-1943

Funeral services for Napoleon Bonaparte Chapman, 83, former Louisa resident were conducted last Friday afternoon at the Lazear Funeral Home in Ashland. Mr. Chapman died Tuesday after an extended illness in the King's Daughters' Hospital, Ashland. The service was in charge of Rev. O. P. smith, pastor of Meade Memorial Methodist Church of Russell, assisted by Rev. David Bryce Sagasad, assistant pastor of the First Methodist Church of Ashland, of which the deceased was a member. Burial was made in the Ashland Cemetery. Mr. Chapman was the last surviving child of the late Elijah Franklin and Mary McClure Chapman of Gallup, and was descended from two of this counties prominent families. He was born at Gallup Jan 13, 1860 and received his education in the Lawrence County schools and at the University of Kentucky. Mr. Chapman engaged in the coal industry. He served one term as County Surveyor of Lawrence county and at one time owned and operated a store in Louisa. After moving to Ashland, he was employed by the C & O Railway Co. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ida Porter Chapman, 717 29th Street, Ashland, 1 daughter, Miss Lucille Chapman, head of the history department of the Ashland high schools, 1 son, Lt.-Col. James W. Chapman, who had been stationed at Hickam Field, Hawaii for the past 2 and half years and 2 grandsons, James W. Chapman, II and Stephen Chapman, Long Beach, CA. Big Sandy News, Jul 2, 1943

COOPER, James Edward

James Edward Cooper, 40, C & O Railway bridge carpenter of Garrison, KY, and son of John e. and Elizabeth Lewis Carpenter, of Red Bush, was killed Wednesday of last week while working near Columbus, OH. Mr. Cooper stepped into the path of a train on a second track when the noise of another train passing made it impossible for him to hear the approaching train. Mr. Cooper had been with the force since 1924. Big Sandy New, Jul 9, 1943

CORDLE, John R.

John R. Cordle, 72, retired plumbing contractor of Ashland and brother of Mrs. Ned Branham of Louisa, died Tuesday at his home in Ashland. Big Sandy News, Jul 2, 1943

DAVIS, Walter

Walter Davis, native of Johnson county, died last week at his home in Arizona, and the body was returned to the Big Sandy section for funeral and burial. Deceased was a son of Dan Davis, a large landowner of Johnson county and first president of the Paintsville National Bank. Deceased was born on the Davis farm near Paintsville. Funeral was conducted Monday in Johnson County. Deceased was a brother-in-lawn of Dr. W. L. Gambill of Ashland. His wife was the daughter of Ransom Sagraves of the Flat Gap section. Big Sandy News, Jul 30, 1943

DAVIS, William Columbus

William Columbus Davis, 30, native of Lawrence county, died at his home near Cannonsburg, Boyd County after a month's illness. He was shipping clerk at the Evans Bakery in Ashland for 6 years. He was born in Ohio, a son of Lorenza and Lydia Sturgill Davis natives of this county. Big Sandy news, Jul 30, 1943

FRASHER, Mary Jane (Stith)

Mrs. Mary Jane Stith Frahser, 86, widow of Eli Frasher and a native of this county, died Monday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Solomon Nicholas in Ashland. She had been ill for a year. Funeral was conducted Wednesday morning at Newcomb, near Fallsburg, and interment was made in the Harmon family cemetery at Newcomb. Mrs. Frasher was born in Wayne County, WV, but resided most of her life in this county. She had lived in Ashland the past 20 years. She was a member of the Fallsburg Methodist church. Surviving besides the daughter is one son, Purl Frasher of Louisa route 4 and one half-brother, Jake Thompson of Prichard, WV and 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jul 2, 1943

FYFFE, John

John Fyffe, 74, Greenup county farmer, and an native of the Barnrock section, died recently at his home at Maloneton, KY. He was a son of William H. and Anna McKenzie Fyffe of Johnson county, and was a brother of Felix Fyffe of this county. Burial was made at York, Greenup County. Big Sandy News, Jul 16, 1943

GRIFFITH, Ida

Miss Ada Griffith, Farm Security Administration home demonstration agent in Lawrence County, was called to her home in Berea Wednesday morning by the serious illness of her mother Mrs. Ida Griffith. Her mother died later that day and funeral will be conducted in Berea Saturday afternoon. Louisa friends have been informed. Big Sandy news, Jul 2, 1943

HAYES, Willie

Mattie, KY, Jul 26--We were sorry to hear of the sudden death of Willie Hayes on Saturday Jul 24th at Columbus, OH. He leaves a wife and one son and his mother, Mrs. Florence Hayes of Cincinnati, OH, a sister, Mrs. Oscar Ball of Cincinnati, and a brother, John H. Hayes of Mechanicsburg, OH. He was formerly of this place and has many friends and relatives here who regret his passing. His father preceded him in death some years ago. Big Sandy News, Jul 30, 1943

HENSON, James

James Henson, 70, retired C & O Railway section laborer, died Sunday at his home in Louisa. He had been in failing health for several months. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Louisa Freewill Baptist Church with the pastor, Rev. William W. Moore, officiating and interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery hers. Mr. Henson was born and reared near Yatesville. He had lived in Louisa the past 35 years and was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. He is survived by 2 sons, Robert and Thomas Henson, both of Louisa, and 2 stepsons, Coon Hampton, Ironton, OH and Ross Hampton, Ashland, KY and 2 sisters, Mrs. Jennie Graham, Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Sam Maynard, Catlettsburg, KY. His wife, Mrs. Anna Henson, died 6 years ago. Mr. Henson also is survived by his second wife, Mrs. Melda Phillips Henson. Big Sandy News, Jul 23, 1943

JOHNSON, Lucy Belle

Lucy Belle Johnson , 13, and Bernard E. Meade, 16, both of Prichard, WV, were drowned in Big Sandy river at Prichard Sunday afternoon. The youths were members of a swimming party that took to the river during the intense heat of Sunday afternoon. Miss Johnson stepped into a deep hole over her head and Meade went to her rescue. Neither could swim and they both drowned before others could pull them out. Donald Lambert, 16, son of Mr. and Mrs. French Lambert, of Sciotoville, tried to rescue them but was nearly drowned himself, according to reports. Others in the party pulled Lambert out and administered artificial respiration. The mother of one of the victims went to the river with the group but did not go in swimming. A group of neighbors, some from Buchanan across the river, searched for the bodies. Eugene Wallace, RFD mail carrier of Buchanan dived and recovered both bodies. Meade's body was recovered one hour and 15 minutes after he drowned and Miss Johnson's body about 2 hours after she drowned. Efforts to resuscitate them failed. Funerals for the victims were conducted in the Methodist Church at Prichard Wednesday afternoon. Rev. Jarvis Wood, of Buchanan, preached the funeral of Miss Johnson and Rev. Roy Bellomy and Rev. Ira Copley preached the funeral of Meade. A large assemblage attended the rites. Miss Johnson was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Johnson and Meade was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Elza Meade, all of Prichard, Big Sandy news, Jul 2, 1943

JOHNSTON, Maude (Carey)

Mrs. Maude Carey Johnston, 75, native Louisan and widow of the late Charles R. Johnston, died early Tuesday morning at the home of a sister, Mrs. C. W. McDonald in Louisa. Funeral rites were conducted Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the McDonald home here with Rev. L. M. Rogers, pastor of the Methodist Church, officiating, and the body was taken to Ashland for interment in the Ashland Cemetery. Mrs. Johnston, a daughter of the late William and Emily Burgess Carey, was born near Louisa. She was married in 1889 to Mr. Johnston, a construction engineer, and they had resided in Ashland, Pikeville and Nitro, WV. Mr. Johnston died in 1938. She had resided here the past four years. Deceased had been a member of the Methodist church since early girlhood. Surviving are 4 sisters, Mrs. C. W. McDonald and Mrs. D. J. Burchett, both of Louisa, Mrs. J. J. Johnson of Frankfort, KY, and Mrs. George B. Roberts, of Memphis, TN; 4 brothers, G. B. and M. F. Carey, both of Lexington, KY and Lyss and Charles W. Carey, both of Louisa and a grandson, Glen Parson, serving in the U. S. Navy on the east coast and 2 great grandchildren, Bryan and Rebecca Parsons of Philadelphia, PA. Big Sandy news, Jul 16, 1943

KIRK, Ulysses K.

Ulysses K. Kirk, 74, farmer of Beauty, Martin county, died Saturday in a Williamson hospital. Deceased was born at Stonecoal, a son of John and Rinda Marcum Kirk. Funeral was held Monday and burial made at Beauty. Big Sandy News, Jul 16, 1943

MCCOY, Larry A.

Larry A. McCoy, 8 months son of Mr. and Mrs. Hassel McCoy of Williamson, WV, died Monday at the McCoy home and the body was brought to Louisa and taken to the home of the maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Manley on Three Mile. Funeral was conducted Thursday afternoon at the See Cemetery a few miles south of Louisa. Surviving are the parents, 3 sisters, one brother, and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Manley and Mrs. Bertha McCoy, Toler, KY. Big Sandy News, Jul 16, 1943

MCKINSTER, Roscoe

Roscoe McKinster, 44 years of age, died in Mount Carmel Hospital at Columbus, OH, Jul 5. Roscoe was born at Adams, this county, the son of Delila McKinster and the late E. G. McKinster. He had resided at Columbus for the pat 18 years. Funeral services were conducted Wednesday afternoon, Jul 7 at the Washington avenue U. B. Church by Rev. Rife, and interment made in Greenlawn Cemetery. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Goldie McKinster and a daughter, Juanita May of Columbus, his mother, Mrs. Delila McKinster of Adams, 6 brothers, Ray, Roy, Jesse of Columbus, William of Kingsport, TN, Milton of Pulaski, VA, Stanley of Adams and one sister, Mrs. Demata Skaggs of Beaver, OH. Roscoe was baptized and joined the Methodist church early in life. Big Sandy News, Jul 16, 1943

MEADE, Bernard E.

Lucy Belle Johnson , 13, and Bernard E. Meade, 16, both of Prichard, WV, were drowned in Big Sandy river at Prichard Sunday afternoon. The youths were members of a swimming party that took to the river during the intense heat of Sunday afternoon. Miss Johnson stepped into a deep hole over her head and Meade went to her rescue. Neither could swim and they both drowned before others could pull them out. Donald Lambert, 16, son of Mr. and Mrs. French Lambert, of Sciotoville, tried to rescue them but was nearly drowned himself, according to reports. Others in the party pulled Lambert out and administered artificial respiration. The mother of one of the victims went to the river with the group but did not go in swimming. A group of neighbors, some from Buchanan across the river, searched for the bodies. Eugene Wallace, RFD mail carrier of Buchanan dived and recovered both bodies. Meade's body was recovered one hour and 15 minutes after he drowned and Miss Johnson's body about 2 hours after she drowned. Efforts to resuscitate them failed. Funerals for the victims were conducted in the Methodist Church at Prichard Wednesday afternoon. Rev. Jarvis Wood, of Buchanan, preached the funeral of Miss Johnson and Rev. Roy Bellomy and Rev. Ira Copley preached the funeral of Meade. A large assemblage attended the rites. Miss Johnson was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Johnson and Meade was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Elza Meade, all of Prichard, Big Sandy news, Jul 2, 1943

MILLER, Alice (Meade)

Noris, KY, Jul 12--Mrs. Alice Meade Miller, 84, died Saturday at the home of her son, Att Miller at this place. She was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Ambrose Meade. She was borned and reared at Noris. "Aunt" Alice had been a member of the Methodist Church for several years. Her husband, Orville Miller, preceded her in death 8 years ago. Also 2 daughter, Lizzie and Lou, preceded her in death several years ago. Mrs. Miller was seriously ill for about 3 weeks. She bore all her suffering and now has gone on to reap her reward. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Surviving are 4 sons, Att and H. K. Miller of Noris, Levi Miller of Georges Creek, and Bob Miller of Oak Hill, OH; 2 sisters, Mrs. Martha Moore of near Cannonsburg and Mrs. Agnes Austin of Meades Branch. Funeral service was held Sunday at the Spencer Church with Rev. W. T. Fraley and Rev. Arlie Blackburn officiating. Interment was made in the Miller-Judd Cemetery. Big Sandy news, Jul 16, 1943

MURPHY, Carrie Lee (Chaffin)

Mrs. Carrie Lee Murphy, 77, died Sunday shortly before noon at the Murphy farm on Twin Branch. She had been ill 3 months. Funeral rites were conducted Tuesday morning at 10 from the home and interment made in the Chaffin cemetery. Mrs. Murphy was born and reared in the Twin Branch section. She was a daughter of the late Kenis and Margaret Goins Chaffin. She was the wife of Jeff Murphy, well known Twin Branch farmer. Surviving besides her husband are 2 sisters and 2 brothers. Big Sandy News, Jul 30, 1943

PRESTON, Rhodean

1915-1943

Rhodean Preston, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Preston, of Waverly, OH, formerly of this county, died April 17 in Mt. Logan sanitarium. Big Sandy News, Friday, July 2, 1943

PRINCE, Dock Mason

Dock Mason Prince, 63, native of this county, died Saturday at his home in Detroit, MI. The body was shipped to Louisa and was taken to the home of his mother-in-law, Mrs. Susan Thompson near Webbville where funeral was conducted Tuesday morning with Rev. Fred. Vanhorn officiating. Interment was made in the Thompson family cemetery. Mr. Prince, son of the late David and Mary Ferguson Prince, was born and reared near Adams, this county. He lived in Columbus for 26 years before moving to Detroit 2 and a half years ago. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lena Thompson Prince; 2 daughter, Mrs. Lloyd Webb and Mrs. Paul Nolan,  both of Detroit, one stepson, Reuben Adams, at home, 2 sisters, Mrs. Isaac Adams, Columbus, OH, and Mrs. Ella Bowe, Louisa, route 2 and 2 brothers, John and Sam Prince, both of Adams. Deceased was a member of the Baptist Church. Big Sandy News, Jul 23, 1943

RANSON, Elizabeth (Pigg)

1882-1943

Mrs. Elizabeth Pigg Ranson, 61, widow of the late Thaddeus Ranson, died Wednesday noon at the Ranson farm home near Louisa. She had been ill nine months and had been bedfast since April. Funeral rites will be conducted Friday morning at 10:30 in the Myrtle Chapel Church on Five Forks with Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. L. S. Alley officiating. Interment will be made in the Myrtle Chapel Cemetery. Mrs. Ranson until she became ill, had taught the primary department of the Myrtle Chapel Sunday school since the church was built. She had been a member of the Methodist Church since early girlhood. Mrs. Ranson was born near Busseyville Jun 4, 1882, a daughter of D. L. and Betty Meek Pigg. Her husband died in 1939. Surviving are 3 daughters, Mrs. Elizabeth Cooksey, Ashland, KY, Mrs. David Rice, Louisa and Miss Myrla Sue Ranson, at home; and 3 sons, Paul Ranson of Leewood, WV, Herbert Ranson of Ashland, KY and Robert Ranson of Tulsa, OK. Big Sandy News, Jul 23, 1943

RICE, Charles Wesley

Charles Wesley Rice, 57, retired Armco employee, died Thursday of last week at his home in Ashland, after an illness of one year. Mr. Rice was born in Lawrence County, a son of the late Dr. and Mrs. Scott Rice and had lived in Ashland for 18 years. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Grace Sparks Rice, 3 sons, Sergeant Randall Rice, U. S. Army, Camp Livingston, LA, Stanley Rice, Detroit, and Rex Rice, at home, 4 daughters, Miss Beulah Rice, Baltimore, MD, Misses Emily Louise, Dorothy and Thelma Rice, all at home and 1 sister, Mrs. Maude Rittenhouse, Oshkosh, NB. Big Sandy News, Jul 2, 1943

ROSS, Minnie (Castle-Porter)

1876-1943

Mrs. Minnie Castle Porter Ross, 67, wife of Charles Ross, died Monday at the Ross home at Winifred on Hood following a sudden heart attack. The body was taken to Greenup county and funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at the Castle cemetery, where interment was made. Deceased was born in Johnson County May 31, 1876, a daughter of John and Minnie Brown Slone. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Big Sandy News, Jul 2, 1943

RUCKER, Paul

Paul Rucker, 19, who has been ill for several months, died Jul 20 at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Watt Rucker at Webbville. Funeral was conducted Thursday of last week at Webbville and interment was made in the Pennington cemetery. Big Sandy News, Jul 30, 1943

SALISBURY, Carolyn

Carolyn Salisbury, 8 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Salisbury of Hunter, died at the home Jul 11. Big Sandy News, Jul 16, 1943

SALMONS, Nancy B. (Slade)

Fort Gay, WV, Jul 15--Mrs. Nancy B. Salmons, 35, wife of A. E. Salmons of Webb, WV, died at the Salmons home Wednesday morning. She had been ill 6 months. Funeral will be conducted Thursday afternoon and interment made in the Copley cemetery near Webb. Rev. Thomas Salmons will officiate at the rites. Mrs. Salmons, a daughter of Joseph Slade and the late Anna Pack Slade, was born and reared at Queens Ridge, WV. The family had lived at Webb 2 years, moving from Huntington. Besides the husband she is survived by her father, Joseph Slade of Webb, 2 daughters and 2 sons at home and one son, Lake Salmons, of Emmitt, WV; 4 sisters, and one brother. Big Sandy News, Jul 16, 1943

SALYERS, Audrey (Jones)

In memory of my beloved sister, Audrey Jones Salyers, 25, who died in Ephrata, PA, after an extended illness, Jul 17. She was buried at Ephrata Jul 20th. She was baptized at Cadiz, KY at the age of 16. Her many friends of the Webbville section and Fallsburg will remember her as a kind and loving angel, for in life that's what she seemed to us all. She is survived by an only sister, Mrs. Fred Crank of Catlettsburg, her husband, Charles Salyers of Chester, PA and a grandfather, Bob Hendricks of Cadiz, KY. God called her away, Left us with grief and sorrow, But who knows--try to be gay, For He may call us tomorrow. Her sister, Bobby Jones Crank. Big Sandy news, Jul 30, 1943

SHORT, Brack

Brack Short, 19, of Ledocio, died Wednesday noon in a Louisa hospital where he had been a patient 10 days. He had been ill of complications for some time. Deceased was born and reared at Ledocio, a son of J. M and Etta McKinster Short. He worked for a few weeks in the Curtis Wright air plant in Columbus, OH before becoming ill. Funeral was conducted Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the home of his parents at Ledocio with Rev. William W. Moore of Louisa officiating, and interment was made in the Short family cemetery. Besides his parents he is survived by 3 sisters, Mrs. Carl Smith, Columbus, OH, Mrs. Howard Hayes, Adams, KY and Mrs. Ellis Moore, Chester, PA and 5 brothers, Ezra and Elsie Short, both of Baltimore, MD, Shelva Short, Columbus, OH, J. M. Short, Jr., Bridgeport, Ct and Jack Short, Adams. Big Sandy news, Jul 30, 1943

SMITH, Lenora (Parks)

Fort Gay, WV, Jul 14--Mrs. Lenora Parks Smith, 64, wife of William F. Smith of Hewlett, 4 miles north of here, died at the Smith home Wednesday morning at 5 following a week's illness. Funeral will be conducted Friday afternoon at 2 from the Forks of Hurricane church and interment will be made in the Lakin cemetery on Big Hurricane Creek. Mrs. Smith, a daughter of the late Robert and Emaline Frazier Parks, was born in the Big Hurricane section and had resided in Wayne county all of her life. She had been a member of the Methodist Church for 20 years. Surviving besides the husband, are 4 sisters, Mrs. John L. Ratcliff, Broad Bottom, KY, Mrs. McKinley Basenback, Huntington, WV, Mrs. Cal Roberts and Mrs. Charles Thomas both of Prichard, WV, and 2 brothers, Ed Parks of Ashland and Harrison Parks of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Jul 16, 1943

SMITH, Mary Magdalene (Skeens)

Mrs. Mary Magdalene Smith, 37, wife of Max Smith of Louisa, died Tuesday noon in the C & O hospital in Huntington where she had been a patient the past month. The body was returned to Louisa Tuesday in the Curtright funeral car. Funeral rites will be conducted in the Louisa First Baptist Church Friday afternoon at 2 with the pastor, Rev. J. C. Hager, and Rev. William Moore, officiating. The body will lie in state at the church from 1 p.m. until time of the service. Mrs. Smith was a daughter of Mrs. Clara Fannin Skeens of Louisa and the late Andrew Skeens of Fuller. She was born and reared at Fullers. She had been a member of the Kenova Baptist Church for 20 years. She is survived by the husband and mother, one son, Max, Jr. at home, 5 sisters, Mrs. Ed Jones, Potter, KY, Mrs. Ed Henson, Louisa, Mrs. Sam Jarrell, Allen, KY, Mrs. Lewis Roberts, Portsmouth, OH and Miss Helen Skeens of Troy, OH and one brother, Kenos Skeens of Fort Gay, WV. Big Sandy News, Jul 9, 1943

TURMAN, James David

James David Turman, native of this county, who had lived in Catlettsburg the last 30 years, died Wednesday of last week. Funeral was conducted at the Kavanaugh Chapel Methodist Church and burial made there. Mr. Turman was born in this county but moved to Turman's Ferry in Boyd County at an early age. He was a brother of Sam Turman, Jr. of Catlettsburg, Allen H. Turman of Ashland, Paul Turman of Huntington and Mrs. B. G. Lockwood of Paintsville. Big Sandy News, Jul 23, 1943

WELLMAN, Bird Della (Akers)

Fort Gay, WV. Jul 21--Mrs. Bird Della Wellman, 51, wife of George Wellman of Fort Gay, route 1, died Saturday morning at the Wellman home on Big Hurricane Creek, four miles from Fort Gay. She had been ill four years. Funeral rites were conducted Monday morning at the home and burial was in the family cemetery. The deceased, a daughter of the late John and Susan Thompson Akers, was born and reared in the Big Hurricane section. Surviving besides the husband are 4 daughters, Mrs. Jack Carroll, Detroit, MI, Mrs. Lloyd Pennington, Huntington, WV, Mrs. Kelley Castle, Baltimore, MD and Miss Mildred, at home, 7 sons, Floyd Wellman, Detroit, MI, Fred and Carl Wellman, both of route 1, Fort Gay, George A. Wellman, Prichard, WV, John Wellman, Fort Gay and Frank and Claude Wellman both at home; 5 sisters, Mrs. Naomi Booth and Mrs. William Lambert, both of Huntington, WV, Mrs. John Booth, Wayne, WV, Mrs. James Frazier, Fort Gay and Mrs. Harvey Luther, Indianapolis, IN and 2 brothers, William and Ezra Akers both of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Jul 23, 1943

AUGUST  1943

BELCHER, Edith

Fort Gay, WV, Aug 17-- Miss Edith Belcher, 43, daughter of Elihu and Josephine Wilson Belcher of the Big Hurricane section, died Saturday in a Huntington hospital after an illness of 8 months. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon in the Forks of Hurricane Baptist Church and interment was made in the Christian cemetery. Besides the parents, Miss Belcher is survived by 3 sisters, Mrs. Andrew Hall of Prichard, WV, and Misses Opal and Ruby Belcher, both at home, 7 brothers, O. P. and P. J. Belcher, both of Williamson, WV, Haskell Belcher, Cleveland, OH, Sam and Holt Belcher, stationed in the Army in South Carolina, Paul Belcher, serving with the Army in the Solomon Islands and Gentry Belcher at home. Big Sandy news, Aug 20, 1943

BLACKBURN, Payton, J.

Sgt. Payton J. Blackburn, 21, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harlan Blackburn of near Louisa, was one of ten Army Air Force men killed Monday when a bombing plane crashed a short distance from Gowen Field, Idaho. Mr. and Mrs. Blackburn, who live a few miles south of Louisa on the May Trail, were notified of their son's death Tuesday morning in a telegram from the commandant at the field. Details of the accident have not been received here but a second telegram from Gowen Field, received Thursday morning, said Sgt. Blackburn's body was badly burned and permission was sought from the parents to have his body cremated before being returned for burial. Sgt. Blackburn, who entered the Army Air Force last November 3, was training as an aerial engineer on a B-24 bomber. It is presumed the crash occurred while the plane was on a training flight. Two other Kentuckian were killed over the week end in Army airplane crashes. Sgt. William G. Parkey, Shopville, KY was killed when a bomber crashed at Dubois, WY and Cpl. Kenneth L. Mason, of Berry, KY was killed when a bomber crashed near the Pueblo, CO air base. Sgt. Blackburn is the second Lawrence countian to be killed in airplane crashed during the present war and his body is the third Lawrence County soldier to be shipped home for burial. The first Lawrence county airman to be killed in a plane crash was Herston Cordle, 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. Willie Cordle of Blaine, who was killed last Mar 11 when his training plane crashed near the auxiliary naval air training station in Kingsville, TX, just four days before he was due to get his wings as a pilot. The other Lawrence County soldier whose body was returned for burial was Sgt. Claudius B. Wilson, 26, of Louisa, who drowned in a lake near Fort Dix, NJ while on a practice bivouac. Big Sandy News, Aug 20,1943

The body of Sgt. Payton J. Blackburn, 21, who was killed in an airplane crash Monday of last week near Gowen Field, Idaho, arrived in Louisa Monday by train and was taken immediately to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harlan Blackburn on the Mayo Trail 6 miles south of Louisa.  A military funeral for the dead U. S. Army Air Force sergeant was conducted Tuesday afternoon at the home of the parents with Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. S. B. Ball officiating, and interment was made in the family cemetery. The W. O. Johnson Post American Legion of Louisa conducted the Legion ritual and the Legion firing squad fired a salute at the grave. A large assemblage attended the rites. The body wa accompanied here by Sgt. Phillip Comerford, of Gary, IN, a fellow officer at Gowen Field. Sgt. Comerford said Sgt. Blackburn was killed when his plane, a b-24 bomber, crashed late in the afternoon of Aug 16 about 3 miles from Gowen Field shortly after taking off on a training flight. All ten member of the crew were killed. Sgt. Comerford said  the plane evidently "stalled" or the pilot "banked" it too sharply. It fell and burst into flames almost immediately. Sgt. Blackburn's body was badly burned. Sgt. Blackburn, who entered the Army Air Force Nov 3, 1942, was training as an engineer-gunner on a bomber. The father of the dead Air Force sergeant is a veteran of World War I. He served 12 months in France with a machine gun company and saw action on the western front. Sgt. Blackburn was born Jan 22, 1922 and was reared in this county. He attended high school.... Big Sandy News, Aug 27, 1943

BURCHETT, Mart

Mart Burchett, 76, prominent farmer of Louisa route 3, died Wednesday night at 9:45 at this home in the Morgan Creek section. He had been ill a year of a heart ailment. Funeral rites will be conducted from the home Friday morning at 10:30 with Rev. Fred Vanhorn officiating and interment will be made in the family cemetery on Monday Creek. Mr. Burchett, a son of the late Harvey and Mary Coffman Burchett, was born and reared in the Yatesville community. He was one of the county's substantial farmers, and served one term on the county board of education. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Jessie Carter Burchett, 1 daughter, Mrs. L. E. Bradley of Yatesville, 3 sons, Riley Burchett of Akron, OH, and Harry and Paul Burchett of Louisa, route 3 and 1 brother, Carlos Burchett of Yatesville. Big Sandy News, Aug 6, 1943

BURGESS, Eva (Miller)

1893-1943

Mrs. Eva Miller Burgess, 50, wife of Rev. William Burgess, died Friday afternoon at the Burgess home in Louisa after a month's illness. Mrs. Burgess, a daughter of James S. Miller of Louisa and the late Mrs. Miller was born and reared near Louisa. She had long been a member of the Methodist Church. The family lived at Busseyville until moving to Louisa temporarily 2 weeks ago. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon in the First Methodist church in Louisa with Rev. L. D. Rounds, the pastor, and Rev. William W. Moore officiating. A large assemblage attended the rites. Besides her husband, Mrs. Burgess is survived by 4 daughters, Mrs. Harry Adams and Mrs. Willard Wellman, both of Muskingham, MI and Misses Willie and Ida Mae Burgess, at home; 6 sisters, Mrs. S. W. Castle of Drift, KY, Mrs. William Fraley, Van Lear, Mrs. W. C. Moore, Kenova, Mrs. James Justice, Pikeville and Mrs. Charles Allen and Miss Dimple Miller, both of Louisa, and by one brother, Bryant Miller of Drift, KY. Big Sandy News, Aug 6, 1943

CAMPBELL, James

James Campbell, 73, farmer of the Twin branch section, died in a Louisa hospital Wednesday afternoon following an illness of 10 days of complications. Funeral will be conducted Friday morning at 10:30 at the Campbell family cemetery on Irish Creek, where interment will be made. Mr. Campbell, a son of Thomas and Elizabeth Jordan Campbell, was born and reared at Cherokee and had been a member of the United Baptist Church 20 years. He is survived by his wife, Victoria Spillman Campbell; one daughter, Mrs. Rauleigh Salyers, Circleville, OH, four sons, Millard Campbell, Pactolus, KY, W. T. Campbell, Marysville, OH, John B. Campbell, Webbville, and Howard Campbell, Irvin, OH, one sister, Mrs. Thomas Adams, Orr, and 2 brothers, George Campbell, Blaine and Henry Campbell, Lucasville, OH. Big Sandy news, Aug 13, 1943

CAREY, George B.

1869-1943

The following account of the death of a noted Louisan, George B. Carey, appeared in the Lexington, KY Herald of July 27. George Burgess Carey, 74, owner of the Southern Amiesite Asphalt Company of Birmingham, Ala., and former president of the Carey-Reed Company of Lexington, died at 2:40 yesterday afternoon, at his home 1302 East Main Street, after an illness of several months.

Widely known in Kentucky and southern construction circles, Mr. Carey at the time of his death was recognized as one of the leading authorities on highways and street construction in the south.

Mr. Carey was born in Lawrence county, KY in 1869. He was the oldest son of William and Emily Burgess Carey. He received his early education in the schools of his native county and later received an engineering degree at the University of Kentucky. He was graduated in the class of 1893. While at the University he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and captain of the 1893 football team. After being engaged in construction work in the east for several years. Mr. Carey returned to Lexington and organized the Carey-Reed Company. This company operated extensively throughout the south. He remained president of the firm until its voluntary liquidation in 1940.

During his career, Mr. Carey served as president of the Kentucky Association of Highways Contractors, the Lexington Rotary Club and recently was elected president of the Plant-Mix Asphalt Industry of Kentucky. He was a member of Central Christian Church. In 1900 he married Kathryn Jouett Reed of Lexington, who survived him, along with his son, Burgess Carey, owner of the Carey Construction Company of Lexington. Also surviving are 2 grandchildren, Sybil and George Carey, Lexington, 4 sisters, Mrs. J. J. Johnson, Frankfort, Mrs. D. J. Burchett, Louisa, Mrs. Charles McDonald, Louisa, Mrs. George Roberts, Memphis and 3 brothers, M. F. Carey of Lexington, and Ulysses Carey and Charles Carey both of Louisa. Big Sandy news, Aug 6, 1943

CASTLE, Amanda Alice (Ramey)

Mrs. Amanda Alice Castle, 63, wife of Hollie Castle, of Portsmouth, OH, formerly of this county, died Saturday at her home in Portsmouth. Mrs. Castle, a daughter of John and Nancy Pack Ramey, was born at Lowmansville, this county. In 1898, she was married to Mr. Castle and 2 years later they moved to Ashland. She had lived in Portsmouth since 1929. Mrs. Castle was a member of the First Christian Church of Ashland. In addition to her husband, she leaves 3 sons, Clarence Castle, William Howard Castle who is stationed with the armed forces at Ft. Knox, KY and Hollie Edward Castle, Portsmouth, 2 brothers, John Ramey of Springfield, OH and Charles Ramey of the Veterans hospital, Norfolk, VA; and 4 sisters, Mrs. Thursa Cottle of Lowmansville, Mrs. Zelda Scarberry of Springfield, OH, Mrs. Belva Dillon of New Bedford, OH and Mrs. Dola Ward of London, OH survive. The last rites were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Emerick funeral home, Rev. Wendell Poole of Minford officiating. Burial was in Greenlawn Cemetery, Portsmouth. Big Sandy news, Aug 20, 1943

CASTLE, Ida (Bell)

Mrs. Ida Bell Castle, 34, wife of Okie Castle of near Richardson, died Thursday of last week in a Paintsville hospital after a 13 day illness of typhoid. Funeral was conducted Friday at Mt. Zion Church with Rev. Ide Preston officiating. Tow of Mrs. Castle's five children also are patients in a Paintsville hospital suffering of typhoid, but their condition was reported improved this week. Besides the husband and 5 children, she is survived by 2 sisters. She was a daughter of Tardy and Rosa Boyd Bell. Big Sandy News, Aug 27, 1943

DEBORD, daughter

Funeral for the infant daughter of Clarence and Grace Dotson DeBord of Mill Creek, WV, which died shortly after birth in a local hospital Jul 28 was conducted Friday in the Montgomery cemetery on Mill Creek. Surviving besides the parents are 3 grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Debord of Fort Gay, route 1, and Mrs. Dora Dotson of Pike county. Big Sandy News, Aug 6, 1943

DIAMOND, Warner

Warner Diamond, 2 months old son of Beckham and Mary Liesegang Diamond, died Wednesday a.m. at the Diamond home in the Smokey Valley section near Louisa following a brief illness. Funeral was conducted at the home Thursday morning and interment made in the family cemetery. Surviving besides the parents are the grandmothers, Mrs. Emma Diamond, Louisa, route 3, and Mrs. Martha Liesegang, Smokey Valley. Big Sandy news, Aug 6, 1943

FRANKLIN, Leah (Hilton)

Mrs. Leah Hilton, 93 of Durbin, Boyd county, died at her home Wednesday of last week. Deceased was a native of Johnson county and had lived in Boyd county the last 60 years. Ben Franklin of Buchanan, is a brother and Mrs. S. C. Black of Buchanan, is a sister. Big Sandy News, Aug 6, 1943

FULLER, Bigle

Bigle Fuller, 52 year old coal miner of Breeden and a native of Wayne County, WV, died Saturday in a Williamson hospital. He was a son of Elijah and Chloe Messer Fuller. Funeral was conducted Tuesday in the Anderson Cemetery on Jennies Creek in Wayne County. Big Sandy News, Aug 13, 1943

GRIFFITH, Viola (Vaughan)

Mrs. Viola Vaughan Griffith, 38, wife of Sherman Griffith, of Martha, died at 1:30 Monday morning while being brought to a hospital in Louisa in the automobile of a neighbor. She had been in failing health 21 months. She became suddenly ill after attending church Sunday night. Funeral was conducted Wednesday morning at the Skaggs Cemetery at Union Camps where interment was made. Rev. Willie Sparks officiated. Deceased, a daughter of the late Wallace and Amanda Boggs Vaughan, was born and reared at Sacredwind on Cines Creek. Besides her husband, she is survived by 5 daughters, Mable, Avalee, Georgia Mae, Betty Jean, and Edna Carol, all at home; 5 sons, Carl Griffith, in the U. S. Army, and Hoover, Kenneth, Robert and Paul, all at home. Big Sandy News, Aug 13, 1943

HILL, Carrie (Fyffe)

Mrs. Oba D. Hill died Sunday, Jul 25th in the Paintsville Hospital after undergoing an operation on Jul 22. Carrie, as she was familiarly known to her friends and neighbors, was born at Relief, Morgan county, and spent her entire life there. She leaves to mourn her loss her husband, Oba D. Hill, 2 children, Dainty, 14 and Jesse, 6, her father, Joseph Fyffe, now of Red Bush, 2 sisters, Mrs. Sallie Fyffe of Relief, and Mrs. Emmet Kelly of Red Bush, Ambrose Fyffe of Louisa, Jay and Link Fyffe of Red Bush, John Henry Fyffe of Staffordsville, Alva Fyffe of Relief, and Lonza Fyffe, now in the armed forces. Preceding her in death were 3 small children, Eugene, Earl and Burl. Carrie had been a member of Enterprise Baptist Church at Paint Valley for 16 years. She took her sickness as she did life, uncomplainingly, and seemed to always practice the golden rule of doing unto others as you'd have them do unto you. To know Carrie was to love her, a warm welcome when you visited her. Her friendly smile and kindly words radiated cheer in the hearts of all, both young and old who knew her. A Godly light shining through Carrie while here will surely illuminate the path for loved ones and friends who want to walk the straight and narrow way. Oba will miss a cheerful companion. Dainty and Jesse a loving mother, the community a kindly friend and neighbor. Big Sandy News, Aug 6, 1943

HORTON, Alice (Lawson)

Alice Lawson Horton, 79, native Lawrence countian, died Aug 3 at her home at John's Run, Carter county. After the death of her father, Andy Lawson, a Confederate soldier who was killed while back home to see his wife and infant baby, his mother moved to Lawrence County and later to Carter county. John Lawson, 84, of Webbville, is the only surviving brother. Big Sandy News, Aug 13, 1943

JOHNSON, Claude W.

Fort Gay, WV. Aug 17--Geraldine McCoy Johnson, of Williamson, who is here visiting her aunt, Mrs. A. B. Milum here, was notified Friday that her husband, Sgt. Claude W. Johnson, 22, had been killed in Sicily Jul 20. The message, which was sent to Williamson by the War Department was brought to the Milum home here Saturday by Mrs. Johnson's mother, Mrs. Jane McCoy of Williamson. Mrs. Johnson is the sister of the four McCoy brothers of Mingo county who are serving in the armed forces. Sgt. Cair is fighting with and armored regiment in Sicily after surviving 3 hits on his tanks in Tunisia. Sgt. Clyde McCoy was captured i the Tunisian campaign and is now a prisoner in Germany and Claude and Charles are in camps in this county. Mrs. Johnson and her son, Thomas Barry, aged 3, have been visiting in the Milum home here 2 months. Her husband was serving with a quartermaster company with the Seventh army in Sicily. Big Sandy News, Aug 20, 1943

LYCAN, Cynthia (Preston)

1873-1943

Fort Gay, WV, Aug 12--Mrs. Cynthia P. Lycan, 70, of Fort Gay, died at the home of a daughter Mrs. W. C. Ellis in Kenova at 6 p.m. Tuesday. She had been in ill health for several years. Funeral services were held Thursday at 2:30 p.m. at the Freewill Baptist Church at Kenova with the Rev. J. Duvall and the Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. Surviving are 2 sons, Andrew J. Lycans of Fort Gay and Anthony W. Lycans, of Portsmouth, OH, 5 daughters, Mrs. Harmon Hoosier and Mrs. Henry Phipps of Huntington and Mrs. Ellis. Mrs. Harry Caniff and Miss Grace Lycans of Kenova; 4 brothers, Tom and William E. Preston of Quaker, WV, Wayne Preston of Wheelersburg, OH and James Preston of Kenova, one sister, Mrs. Sibble Smith of Denver, CO and 21 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Aug 1943

MILLER, Gilbert

1866-1943

Rev. Gilbert Miller, 77, well known minister and farmer of the Meades Branch section, died Wednesday morning at 2 p.m. at the Miller home on Meades Branch. He had been ill 3 weeks of complications incident to advanced age. Funeral rites were conducted Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. at the Miller home and interment made in the Miller family cemetery. Rev. Miller, a son of the late Rev. Thomas and Susan Meade Miller, was born near Louisa but had lived practically all of his life on Meades Branch, where he was a farmer and blacksmith. He had been a minister in the Freewill Baptist Church for 52 years. Surviving are 2 daughters, Mrs. William Hayes, North Matewan, WV and Mrs. Milt Thompson, Noris, KY and 4 sons, Frank, Noah, and Thomas T. Miller, all of Columbus, OH and Jarrett P. Miller of Louisa, route 1. Rev. Miller's wife, Mrs. Jennie Johnson Miller, died last October. Big Sandy News, Aug 6, 1943

Gilbert Miller, son of Thomas and Susan Miller, was born near Louisa, KY, Nov 6, 1866 and departed this life Aug 4, 1943. He was the last survivor of a family of 11 children. On Mar 15, 1887, he was united in marriage to Jennie Ann Johnston. This union was broken by the death of the wife, Oct 27, 1942. To this union were born 10 children--four of whom preceded their parents in death. He leaves to mourn his loss the following children: Frank, Noah F. and Thomas T. Miller of Columbus, OH, Jarrett P. Miller of Louisa, KY, Mrs. Julia Hayes of North Matewan, WV, and Mrs. Audrey Thompson of Noris, KY; also 25 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. He was ordained a minister of the Freewill Baptist Church  in early manhood and remained faithful until his death. Services were conducted at his home by Rev. Elliott Maynard and Rev. Arlie Blackburn and he was laid to rest beside his companion. Big Sandy News, Aug 13, 1943

MORRIS, Martha (Adams)

Mrs. Martha Adams Morris, 76, widow of the late Rev. John J. Morris, died Sunday morning at the Morris home on Long Branch near Cordell. She had been ill two weeks of complications. Funeral rites were conducted Tuesday afternoon at 1 from the home and interment made in the Morris family cemetery. A large assemblage attended the rites. Mrs. Morris, a daughter of the late Arthur and Lizzie Horn Adams, was born near Cordell and had spent all of her life there. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church for 53 years and was a highly respected resident of this section. She is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. J. M. Adams, of Beaver, OH, and Mrs. Sherman Gartin of Cordell; 3 sons, Rev. Arthur Morris of Cherokee, David Morris of Blaine, and Archie Morris of Columbus, OH; 1 sisters, Mrs. Ella Cordle of Cordell and 4 brothers, Isaac, James and Harry Adams, all of Ashland and Lum Adams of Louisa route 3. Big Sandy News, Aug 27, 1943

O'BRIAN, Emmaline

Mrs. Emmaline O'Brian, 80, widow of the late Sylvester O'Brian, died Wednesday night of last week at the home of a son, John J. O'Brian of the Wilbur section. She had been ill since March. Her husband died nearly 3 years ago. She had been a church member for 30 years and was highly respected. She is survived by 2 sons and 2 daughters. Funeral was conducted at her old home last Friday afternoon and interment was made in the family cemetery. Big Sandy news, Aug 6, 1943

PREECE, Hiram Wesley

Hiram Wesley "Wes" Preece, 75, of Williamson, a native of Rockcastle Creek, Martin county and one time resident of Louisa, died Tuesday in a Williamson hospital, after a 6 months illness. Deceased was born on Rockcastle, a son of Neely and Lucy Maynard Preece, pioneer citizens. He came to Louisa and resided for a time and them moved to Mingo County where for 40 years he had engaged extensively in a number of business enterprises. He owned valuable farms in Ohio and in Martin county and city property in Williamson, Kermit and Lakeland, Florida. He was a member of the Baptist Church. He had been chief of Police of Matewan, deputy sheriff and assessor of Mingo county. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Cordle Collins Preece, a daughter, Mrs. Bill Curnutte, of Louisa and the following brothers and sisters, W. S. Preece, Turkey Creek, John Preece, of this county, Mrs. Mary Smith of Inez, and Mrs. Elizabeth Hale of Wolf Creek. Big Sandy News, Aug 13, 1943

RICE, Mamie (Frazier)

Mrs. Mamie Frazier Rice, 46, wife of Thomas Rice formerly of the Two Mile section near Louisa, died Thursday night of last week in Grant hospital in Columbus, OH following an operation. The Rice family moved to Columbus 10 months ago. The body was shipped back to Louisa Saturday and funeral rites were conducted Sunday at Myrtle Chapel at Five Forks with Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. L. S. Alley officiating and interment was made in the Myrtle Chapel cemetery. A large assemblage attending the rites. Mrs. Rice, a daughter of the late James C. and Sophia Booten Frazier, was born and reared near Louisa. Surviving besides the husband are 3 daughters, Betty Jean, Ella Louisa and Mary Catherine, all at home, 3 sons, Thomas Rice, Jr., serving in the U. S. Army in England, and Billy Joe and Robert at home, and 2 brothers, Alex Frazier and Fred Frazier. Big Sandy News, Aug 20, 1943

SKEENS, Fred J.

Fred J. Skeens, 38, of Fullers, who had been employed for many years as a carpenter by the C & O Railway Co., died suddenly of a heart attack while swimming in Big Sandy river at Potter last Saturday evening about 8:30. A good swimmer, Skeens went under suddenly, but was recovered within 10 minutes by Homer Waller and Ed Jones, who were with him. Efforts at resuscitation failed, and a physician who was called soon after the drowning reported he died of a heart attack. Deceased was a son of Sam and Alma Crank Skeens, lifelong resident of the Fuller Branch section, where the deceased was born and reared. He had worked for the C & O as a carpenter 14 years. Funeral was held at the home of his parents near Fullers Tuesday afternoon with Rev. J. C. Hager of Louisa officiating. He is survived by his parents, his wife, Mrs. Opal Waller Skeens, 2 daughters, Carol June and Lola Fay, at home, 3 sons, Fred, Jr., Homer Ray and Dennie Carson, at home, by 3 sisters, Mrs. Drew Adkins, Catlettsburg, Mrs. Jake Evans, Ashland, and Mrs. F. G. Childers, Tulsa, OK, and by one brother, Morris Skeens, of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Aug 13, 1943

SMITH, Willie

Willie Smith, 38, of Culver, Elliott county, was fatally injured Thursday of last week in a fall at a shipyard in Baltimore, MD. The body was returned to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Smith at Culver Sunday and funeral and interment took place there. He is survived by his parents, his wife, and 3 children. Big Sandy News, Aug 6, 1943

STAPLETON, W, C.

C. Stapleton, 68, native of Stephens and a former resident of Ashland, died Jul 27 in Monticello, KY. The body was returned to Ashland where funeral was held in the Fairview Holiness church Saturday and burial was made in the Dixon Cemetery at Ashland. Surviving in addition to his wife, Dell Lenard Stapleton, are the following children, Tom Albert, Ivy, Topath, Priscilla, Rebecca and John Stapleton of Huntington, WV, 7 sisters, Mrs. Charity Sturgill of Ashland, Mrs. Easter Boggs of Webbville, Mrs. Susan Salyers of Stephens, Mrs. Jane Salyers of Ashland, Mrs. Mousoria Yates of Ashland, 2 brothers, John Stapleton of Burke and J. N. Stapleton of Dobbins. Big Sandy News, Aug 6, 1943

THOMPSON, Ida Fay (Bartram)

Fort Gay, WV, Aug 4--Mrs. Ida Fay Thompson, 44, widow of the late Elmer Burke Thompson, died Sunday morning at the home of a brother, Edgar Bartram, a mile and a half above Fort Gay. She had been ill 7 weeks. Funeral rites were conducted Tuesday morning at 11 from the Bartram Chapel with the Rev. Sam Wellman and the Rev. Enos Scraggs officiating. Interment was made in the Thompson Cemetery at Bromley Ridge. Deceased was born and reared near Fort Gay, a daughter of the late Jerry and Wilda See Bartram. She is survived by one son, James Ray Thompson, at home, one sister, Mrs. Bennie Lynch, Mansville, OH and 3 brothers, Edgar and Harlan Bartram of Fort Gay and Forest Bartram of Mansville, OH. Big Sandy News, Aug 6, 1943

WARD, Delores Jean

Stepping into water over her head, little Delores Jean Ward, 9 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Ward of Offutt, drowned Monday of last week while playing in Big Sandy river a mile below the mouth of Greasy Creek. The little victim had run hand in had with 2 Daniels girls from shallow water into the deeper part of the stream, while the victim's sister, Mrs. Beatrice Arrowood and the mother of the 2 other children sat on the bank looking on. The mother, although unable to swim, ran into the water in an attempt to save the children and she herself had to be rescued. Two of the children, playmates of the victim, and Mrs. Daniels were pulled from the river by Ralph Castle, of River, who also was swimming in the river nearby. The Ward girl's body was found an hour later. Funeral was conducted by Rev. German Walters of Georges Creek and burial was made in the family cemetery near Offutt. Big Sandy News, Aug 13, 1943

WELLS, Estill J.

Pvt. Estill J. Wells, 21, a native of this county stationed in the U. S. Army at Fort Meade, MD, died Aug 12 in Walter Reed hospital in Washington, D.C where he underwent an operation for brain tumor ten days earlier. Pvt. Wells became ill at Fort Meade on Jul 31. Deceased was a son of L. W. and Mary Miller Wells, of near Ulysses, this county. He joined the Army several months ago. The body was returned to Louisa and taken to the Curtright funeral car to the home of his sister near Ulysses. Funeral was conducted Sunday morning at 10 a.m. at the home of a sister, Mrs. Leander Miller near Ulysses, and interment was made in the Miller family cemetery on Meades Branch. Pvt. Wells is survived by 3 sisters, Mrs. Vernon B. Rigsby, Ashland, KY, Mrs. Leander Miller of Louisa, route 1, and Mrs. Everett Griffith, Plain City, OH, and 3 brothers, Pfc. Phyllis Wells, serving in the U. S. Army overseas, William Wells, Plain City, OH and Sherley Wells, Ada, OH. Big Sandy News, Aug 20, 1943

WHEELER, Lon

Lon Wheeler, 53, well respected farmer of the Lower Laurel section near Blaine, died at his home Thursday of last week following an illness of five months. Funeral was conducted Saturday at the Castle Cemetery on Hood Creek where interment was made. Deceased was a son of Marion and the late Laura McKinney Wheeler and was born and reared in the Blaine section. He had been a member of the United Baptist Church for 30 years. Besides his father, he is survived by his wife, Emily Green Wheeler, 5 sons, Leslie Wheeler, Huntington, WV, Howard Wheeler, Ashland, and Fred, harry and Herman, at home; 8 daughters, Mrs. John Kazee and Mrs. Richard Dials, both of Ashland, Mrs. Laura Kazee of Blaine, and Misses Lenora, Leatrice, Maxine, Roberta and Delores, all at home; 2 sisters, Mrs. Elmer Lester of Blaine and Mrs. Clifford Lyon of Powell, OH and 6 brothers, W. H. of Martha, Morton and Ossie Wheeler of Blaine, Darwin, Marvin and Otis Wheeler all in the nation's armed forces. Big Sandy News, Aug 20, 1943

WHITE, Pearl (Fugett)

Mrs. Pearl Fugett White, wife of Walter White of Detroit, MI, died Sunday midnight in Detroit after an illness of one year. The body was returned to Louisa Wednesday morning and taken in the Curtright funeral car to the home of a sister, Mrs. Allen Clay, near Fallsburg. Funeral rites were conducted Thursday afternoon at 2 in the Savage Memorial Methodist Church at Fallsburg with Rev. Fred Vanhorn officiating. Deceased, a daughter of the late John E. and Arminta Taylor Fugett, was reared at Fallsburg. She had lived in Detroit the past 23 years. Besides the husband, she is survived by an adopted son, Robert White at home; one sister, Mrs. Allen Clay of Fallsburg and 2 brothers, R. L. Fugett of Logan, WV and B. J. Fugett of Huntington, WV. Big Sandy News, Aug 27, 1943

WILSON, Millard J.

Millard J. Wilson, 59, well known farmer of the Lick Creek section near Louisa, died at his home 3 miles south of Louisa Friday morning after a long illness. Deceased was born and reared on Lick Creek. He was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Wilson. He submitted to an operation a month ago for removal of a kidney and never recovered. Funeral was conducted at the Wilson cemetery near the home Wednesday afternoon. Surviving are the wife, Mrs. Mattie M. Wilson, 4 daughters, Mrs. Sheridan Cyrus, Martin, KY, Mrs. J. D. Bowen, Ivington, KY, Mrs. Hollis Whitaker, Columbus, OH, and Miss Relda Wilson at home, 3 sons, John Wilson of Louisa, Carl E. Wilson in the U. S. army in California and Lawrence B. Wilson in the Navy; 2 sisters, Mrs. Ida Castle, Drift, KY and Mrs. Nova McCann, Ashland, KY, and 3 brothers, Harrison and Marion, both of Louisa and George Wilson of Ashland, KY. Big Sandy News, Aug 20, 1943

SEPTEMBER 1943

CLARK, James

James Clark, 62, years old, employee of the Pennsylvania RR was killed near Orville, OH Monday afternoon. His remains were brought to the Curtright Funeral Home Wednesday morning for burial preparation. Funeral will be held in the First Baptist Church of Louisa Friday at 2 p.m. Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. Burial will be in Pine Hill Cemetery. Mr. Clark was born in England. He came to America when only 2 years of age. He moved from Williamson to Louisa 15 years ago. He is survived by his wife, Sarah Clark, 3 daughters, Mrs. B. Blankenship, route 3, Louisa, Mrs. Charles Smith, Ashland, KY, and Mrs. Earl Hale, at home and one son, James H. Clark of Williamson, WV. He is also survived by one sister, Mrs. Richard Nesbit, Bakerstown, PA, one brother, Joe Clark, Bakerstown, PA. The Clark family lived in the western section of Louisa. They are a highly respected family and all will be grieved to hear of the tragic passing of this good man. Big Sandy New, Sep 3, 1943

EDWARDS, John

John Edwards, 86, native, of Georges Creek section of this county, died Monday night at his home in Williamson, WV after an illness of six months. Moving from this county, Mr. Edwards married the former Miss Susie Hatfield of Mingo county. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. Funeral was conducted Wednesday at the home of Mrs. Bertha Williamson in South Williamson and interment was made at Matewan. Big Sandy News, Sep 24, 1943

FANNIN, Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson Fannin, 80, who died Wednesday of last week at his home in Catlettsburg, was buried in the Riffe Cemetery on East Fork, last Thursday after funeral services held in the Trinity church at East Fork. Deceased, a native of Missouri, had resided in Kentucky 45 years and had lived in Catlettsburg since 1937. He worked for many years as a stationary engineer for the Semet-Solvay Co. and the Kentucky & West Virginia Power Co. Big Sandy News, Sep 17, 1943

JOHNSON, Mont

Mr. Mont Johnson of Meades Branch, age 70, passed away Friday, Sep 10, at the home of his niece, on Meades Branch. He was the son of the late Tom and Lucinda Muncey Johnson. Born and reared on Meade's Branch, Mr. Johnson was a retired store manager working for different Coal companies in Mingo and Logan counties, WV. He had some very valuable property in Huntington, WV and other cities. Mr. Johnson was never married. He had a quiet, friendly disposition and was liked by all who knew him. Funeral was held Sunday at 2:30 with Rev. William Moore of Louisa and Rev. Arlie Blackburn of Meade's Branch officiating. Burial was in Johnson Cemetery. Mr. Johnson was a Spanish-American War Veteran. He leaves one sister, Cora Boyd of Ulysses, this county. Big Sandy News, Sep 17, 1943

O'NEAL, Agnes (Blankenship)

Mrs. Agnes Blankenship O'Neal, 28, wife of George O'Neal, was burned to death in their trailer at Ypsilanti, MI Thursday afternoon, Sep 9. She and her husband had returned from work at the Willow Run plant of the Ford Motor Co. during a downpour of rain when the discovered a leak in the roof of their trailer. They put some tar on the stove to melt to fix the roof and the tar became overheated causing a nearby gasoline tank to explode, burning Mrs. O'Neal to death. Mrs. O'Neal was a daughter of Jack and Belle Welch Blankenship of Louisa. She was born and reared in Louisa and had lived here all of her life, until she married Mr. O'Neal and moved to Michigan. Mr. and Mrs. O'Neal held responsible positions with the Ford Willow Run plant. Surviving in addition to her husband and parents and a brother, Clyde Welch of Louisa. The body arrived here Saturday afternoon and was taken to the Curtright Funeral Home. The body was later removed to the home of her parents. Funeral services were conducted Monday afternoon at 2:30 at the parents home with the Rev. L. D. Rounds, assisted by the Rev. William W. Moore officiating. Burial was made in the Crabtree Cemetery, north of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Sep 17, 1943

PRITCHARD, James

James Pritchard, 68, formerly of Louisa, died of a stroke Monday evening Sep 6 at 5:30. Mr. Pritchard had been in Columbus for the past year as overseer for the O.M. Tucker Green House Co. He was a son of the late Noah and Arminta Reeves Pritchard. He was a member of the Baptist Church for the past 43 years. Funeral services were held this afternoon, Thursday at 2:30, the Rev. J. C. Hager, officiating. Mr. Pritchard leaves the following, his wife, Cordelia Watson Pritchard, 2 daughters, Mrs. G. W. Blankenship, Louisa, Mrs. William J. Millard of College Park, MD, 3 sons, Lawrence of Louisa, Lewis of Ashland, Russell of Columbus, OH, 1 step daughter, Mrs. John Mansville of Ashland, 3 sisters, Mrs. Martha Walker of Ironton, OH, Mrs. Maude Morris of Logan, WV, Mrs. Samantha Wells of Catlettsburg, 3 brothers, J. F. Pritchard of Welch, WV, Ralph Pritchard of Beckley, WV, B. B. Pritchard, Rush, KY. Burial took place in Pinehill cemetery under the direction of Curtright Funeral Home. He was well known in Lawrence County and his passing will bring regrets to a large number of relatives and friends. Big Sandy News, Sep 10, 1943

ROBINETT, Frank

Fort Gay, WV, Aug 29--Frank Robinett, 33, of Fort Gay, route 1, died Saturday at 5 a.m. at his home a mile from Fort Gay, following an illness of a year. Funeral was conducted Sunday at 10:30 at the Spruce Lick Baptist Church with Rev. Enos Scraggs officiating and interment was made in the Wellman Cemetery. Mr. Robinett served in the U. S. Army from May to October of last years, being discharged because of failing health. He was a member of the Baptist Church and of the Vinson Masonic Lodge of Fort Gay. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Flora Wellman, his wife, Mrs. Edna Spears Robinett, one daughter, Rita Louisa, at home, 4 sisters, Mrs. Alma Waller, Mrs. Henry Wellman, and Mrs. Morris Skeens, all of Fort Gay and Mrs. Henry Gilkerson of Route 2 Prichard, WV and 4 brothers, Sgt. Loren Robinett, serving in the Air Transport Command in New Mexico; M. J. Robinett, Wayne County superintendent of schools  and Virgil and Clyde Robinett, both of route 1, Fort Gay. His father, the late Alex Robinett, died some years ago. Big Sandy news, Sep 3, 1943

SECREST, William

Norman Barker, 40, tenant farmer, shot and killed William (Bill) Secrest, 29, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bennett Secrest, wealthy Greenup county farmers, late Saturday. The shooting took place at a small store operated by young Secrest, located at Bennett's Mill, ten miles south of Fullerton. According to Deputy Sheriff William Adkins, one eye-witness, Mrs. William Wireman, saw the shooting. According to Adkins, Mrs. Wireman said Barker came into the store cursing and pulled out a pistol and shot Secrest through the lip, the bullet ranging upward. Secrest was unable to make a move and died instantly, according to Mr. Wireman. Barker worked on the Secrest farm and was an employee of Secrest's father for a number of years. Young Secrest is well known throughout Eastern Kentucky, having coached football and basketball at Wurtland high school for one year, and 3 years at McKell High School near Fullerton. He is a graduate of Morehead State Teacher College and played football at Morehead. Secrest's father is one of the best known and wealthiest farmers in Greenup county and was one time a member of the Greenup County Board of Education. Secrest is an employee of the Ashland Oil and Refining company at their Leach, KY plant and operated the store during time away from the plant. Big Sandy news, Sep 10,1 943

SMITH, Margaret Emily (Dinguss)

Mrs. Margaret Emily Smith, died at her home in Blaine, KY, Sunday evening, Sep 5, 1943 at 7 p.m. She was the wife of Alfred Smith and they had been married 56 years. Mrs. Smith was the former Miss Margaret Dinguss. She was a member of the Regular Baptist Church for over 50 years. She was born in Scott County, VA and leaves besides her husband, 3 sons, Charles L. and H. D. Smith of Blaine, Cecil Ferguson of Martha by a former marriage. Also, one daughter, Mrs. Isaiah Houck of Grayson, KY. Burial will be in the Knob Branch cemetery after funeral services at 2:30 at the home under the direction of the Curtright Funeral Home of Louisa. The family of the Smiths are one of the most prominent families in Eastern Kentucky. Always highly respected and this fine Christian lady will be missed by, not only her immediate family but the neighborhood in general.  It is a great consolation to be able to truthfully say he or she was a Christian, when we have to give them up. Big Sandy News, Sep 10, 1943

VAUGHAN, Ada Mae

Relatives here were notified Tuesday of the death Saturday of Miss Ada Mae Vaughan, 42, former Ashland resident, at her home in Hollywood, CA. Miss Vaughan's death followed an operation. The funeral was held Wednesday in Hollywood. Miss Vaughan with her mother, Mrs. Bruce Preston and sister, Alberta Vaughan Egil, went to Hollywood in the days of the silent films where both girls were employed by the film industry. Alberta starred in comedies and her older sister was cast in supporting roles. Both have been retired for a number of years. Surviving are the mother and sister, Miss Vaughan was a niece of Mr. and Mrs. J. Frank Stewart of Ashland. Miss Vaughan lived near Estep in this county before moving to Ashland. Big Sandy News, Sep 17, 1943

VINSON, Maude (Frazier)

Mrs. Maude Vinson, age 72, wife of John J. Vinson, died at her home in Ellenboro, WV, Sep 1, 1943. She was the daughter of the late Niel and Sarah Wellman Frazier of Fort Gay, WV. She had lived in Ellenboro for the past 13 years. She leaves besides her husband, 4 daughters, Mrs. J. E. Kinstler, Lucasville, OH, Mrs. James E. Bumbardner, Barboursville, WV, Mrs. Russell Littleton, Charleston, WV, Mrs. Lucy Caldwell, Huntington, WV, one son, Nile of Ellenboro, WV, one sister, Mrs. Wesley Bellomy, Fort Gay, 2 brothers, Boyd and Henry Frazier, Fort Gay, WV. Funeral was held last Saturday in the Fort Gay Baptist Church, with Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Louisa, officiating. Burial was in the Vinson cemetery at Glenhayes, under the direction of the Curtright Funeral Home of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Sep 10, 1943

OCTOBER 1943

BALINGEE, Leander

Leander Balingee, 73, died at his home in Cyrus, WV, Friday. Funeral was conducted Sunday and interment made in the family cemetery on Whites Creek. Big Sandy news, Oct 1, 1943

BERGER, Mrs. Charles W.

Mrs. Charles W. Berger, 80, native of Wayne county, WV and one of Catlettsburg oldest residents, died Thursday of last week at her home in Catlettsburg. She was a daughter of Sam and Hannah Peters Hensley and was born and reared in Wayne county, going to Catlettsburg soon after her marriage to the late Charles W. Berger, for many years a merchant in Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, Oct 1, 1943

BOOTH, Ellen (Tucker)

Fort Gay, WV, Oct 19--Mrs. Ellen Tucker Booth, 70, wife of E. J. Booth of Fort Gay, route 2, died Monday evening at the Booth home on Long Branch, 12 miles from Fort Gay. Funeral rites will be conducted Wednesday afternoon at 2 at the Forks of Hurricane Baptist Church and interment will be made in the Tucker family cemetery on Long Branch. Mrs. Booth had lived in the Long Branch section practically all of her life and had been a member of the Forks of Hurricane Baptist Church since girlhood. Besides the husband, she is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Crit Crabtree, Gallipolis, OH, one son, Arthur L. Booth, Prichard, WV, one sister, Mrs. Garfield Yates, Dooty, WV, and 3 brothers, George Tucker, route 1, Fort Gay, Lee Tucker, Kenova and Tom Tucker, Westmoreland. Big Sandy News, Oct 22, 1943

BURKE, Val

1874-1943

Valentine (Val) Burke, 69, of Louisa route 4, died Sunday about noon at his home at Fullers. Deceased was born at Catlettsburg, Feb 14, 1874 a son of the late Hiram and Mildred Burke. The family moved to this county when the deceased was a youth and he had lived at Fullers most of his life. Funeral was conducted Tuesday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Methodist Church at Prichard, WV and interment was made there. He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. W. E. Meade, Prichard, WV, and 3 sons, Rufus Burke, Louisa, route 4, and Forest and Claude Burke both of Portsmouth, OH. His wife died a number of years ago. Big Sandy News, Oct 22, 1943

CHRISTIAN, Anna Mary (Frasher)

Fort Gay, WV, Oct 26--Mrs. Anna Mary Frasher Christian, 71, widow of the late Freelin Christian, died Friday night at her home in Fort Gay. She had been ill 3 months. Funeral rites were conducted in the Mary's Chapel Methodist church in Fort Gay Monday morning at 11 and interment was made in the Christian family cemetery on Big Hurricane Creek under direction of the Curtright Funeral Home. Deceased, a daughter of the late Nathan and Nancy Ratcliff Frasher, was born and reared on Mill Creek, near Fort Gay. She had lived in Fort Gay the past 23 years and was one of the town's highly respected residents. Her husband, for many years a Fort Gay merchant, died in 1937. She is survived by 3 brothers, Lonnie Frasher and Thomas Frasher, both route 1, Fort Gay and Dock Frasher of Fort Gay; 2 nieces, Mrs. Lucy Johnson, route 1, Fort Gay and Mrs. Fred Springer, Louisa, and by 2 nephews, Clyde Frasher, Fort Gay and Charles Frasher, Columbus, OH. Big Sandy news, Oct 29,1 943

COLLINS, Margaret (Gibson)

Mrs. Margaret Collins, 78, colored, widow of the late Noah Collins of Louisa, died yesterday afternoon at the home of a daughter, Mrs. John Burchfield in Ashland. She had been visiting her daughter in Ashland 3 months. Funeral was conducted at the Burchfield home in Ashland Thursday afternoon and the body will be returned to Louisa for burial in the Wallace Cemetery. Deceased was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Billy Gibson and was born at Salyersville. She is survived by 5 daughters, Mrs. Burchfield, Mrs. Ollie McGhee, Cincinnati, Mrs. James Goff, Mrs. Everett Jones, both of Ashland, and Mrs. Hood McKenzie, Louisa, route 4, and by a son, Devern Collins, LaGrange. Big Sandy News, Oct 15, 1943

DAVIS, Carl

Carl Davis, 28, of Barnabus, WV, formerly of this county, was killed Friday while working in the mines of the U. S. Coal & Coke Company near Barnabus. He died of a fractured neck sustained when his body was caught in a coal cutting machine. The body was returned to Louisa and taken in the Curtright funeral car to the home of his mother, Mrs. Jack Adkins on Lick Creek, six miles from Louisa, where funeral rites were conducted Monday afternoon by Rev. William W. Moore. Interment was made in the Chapman cemetery. deceased, a son of Hannah Fletcher Adkins and the late Flid Davis, was born and reared on Lick Creek. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Hazel Gibson Davis, his mother, 2 sisters, Misses Irene and Phoebe Davis of Louisa and 3 brothers, Bob Davis, Stair, WV, Martin L. Davis, Keesler, WV and Jack Davis, in the U. S. Army in Indianapolis, IN. Big Sandy news, Oct 1, 1943

DAVIS, Emma (Byrd)

Mrs. Emma Byrd Davis 50, wife of Mike L. Davis and a native of this county, died last Thursday in a Louisville hospital. Funeral was conducted from the former Davis home on Bear Creek, Boyd county, Monday with Rev. Garis T. Long and Rev. A. N. Richardson officiating. Interment was made in the Fannin cemetery on Bear Creek. Deceased was born in Lawrence county, KY, a daughter of the late William H. and Lee Carter Byrd. She had resided on Bear Creek for many years and was a member of the Grassland Methodist church. Big Sandy News, Oct 29, 1943

EDWARDS, John

John Edwards, a native of Charley, this county, and a son of the late Rev. Joe Edwards and Patty DeBord Edwards, succumbed at his home in Williamson, WV Monday morning Sep 20 after an illness of 5 years. He was 86 years of age. His wife, Mrs. Susie Hatfield Edwards died about 5 years ago. He is survived by 4 daughters, Mrs. Mary Vanhoose of Louisa, Effie Perkins of St. Louis, MO, Nora Bolding of Gallaher, WV, and Bertha Wilson of Williamson, WV. Also surviving are the following brothers and sisters, Joe Edwards of Catlettsburg, Lizzie Kazee of Ulysses and Mrs. Martha Spaulding of Plain City, OH. Big Sandy news, Oct 1, 1943

FERGUSON, Mrs. Phoebe (Ewing)

Mrs. Phoebe Ewing Ferguson, 54, colored, native Louisan, died at her home in Detroit, MI Sep 21. Deceased was born and reared in Louisa, a daughter of the late James O. and Anna Heston Ewing. She had lived in Detroit the past 5 years. The body was returned to Louisa and funeral was conducted in the Louisa A.M.E. Church Sunday afternoon with Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. Interment was made in the Wallace Cemetery near Louisa. Mrs. Ferguson is survived by 2 sons, Charles Fisher, Jr. in the U. S. Army stationed in Texas, and Donald Ferguson in the Army stationed in Michigan; 3 sisters, Mrs. Willis Barnes, Mrs. Rebecca Harris, and Miss Elizabeth Ewing, all of Huntington and 3 brothers, Wallace Ewing, Louisa, Chester and James Ewing both of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Oct 1, 1943

HEABERLIN, Amanda (Cooksey)

1874-1943

Amanda Cooksey Heaberlin was born at Fallsburg, KY, Mar 21, 1874 and died Oct 7,1 943 at Prichard, WV, age 69 years 6 months and 17 days. She was the daughter of the late Lafe and Mary Bradley Cooksey. She was united in marriage to John B. Heaberlin Feb 2, 1893. To this union were born 12 children, 3 of whom preceded her in death. Surviving are her husband and the following children, Carl of Prichard, WV, Jack of Rittman, OH, Bruce, serving in the U. S. Army at Camp Sutton, NC, Purl, also of the U. S. Army , stationed at Fort Worth, TX, and Oscar at home; also by 4 daughters, Mrs. Quinn Hurt of Prichard, Mrs. Marie Brinkley of Columbus, OH and Mrs. Lucille Stilt and Mrs. Frances Lycan of Newport News, VA, also by 18 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren and by 2 brothers, B. H. Cooksey of Prichard and L. E. Cooksey of Charleston and 2 sisters, Mrs. Hattie Compton and Miss Quinn Cooksey of Buchanan, KY and by a host of relatives and friends. She was converted and joined the Methodist Church at Fallsburg at the age of 16 and has lived a devoted Christian life and loving wife, a devoted mother and an inspiration to all with whom she came in contact. Big Sandy News, Oct 22, 1943

JOHNSON, Priscella

Mrs. Priscella Johnson, a native of Willard, died at her home in Rainier, OR, Oct 7. Her husband, Andrew Johnson, died several years ago. She was a sister of Mrs. C. C. Kitchen of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Oct 22, 1943

KAZEE, Henry Wise

Henry Wise Kazee, 28, son of L. W. and Julia Reynolds Kazee of Ulysses, was killed instantly Sunday, while working in the shipyard of the Great Lakes Ship Company at Ashtabula, OH on Lake Erie. The body was shipped to Louisa Tuesday and taken in the Curtright funeral car to the home of his parents at Ulysses. Funeral was conducted Wednesday at the Chestnut Grove Church near Ulysses with Rev. Henry Griffith officiating. A large assemblage attended. The father was told in a telephone conversation with officials of the company at Ashtabula that Kazee fell 20 feet while working and was killed almost instantly. He had worked at the shipyard 18 months. Besides his parents, he is survived by his wife, Beulah Stapleton Kazee and a daughter, and by 5 sisters, Mrs. Clarence Yoake, Ashtabula, OH, Mrs. Edward Yoake, Mrs. Dan E. McCloyd, and Miss Bradett Kazee, all of Kingsville, OH and Miss Emogene Kazee, at home and by 2 brothers, Raymond and Eugene Kazee both of Ulysses. Big Sandy news, Oct 1, 1943

KELLEY, Deal

Deal Kelley, 56, of Ceredo, died at his home Oct 13. Funeral service was held Friday at Prichard, WV with the Rev. Ted Jarrell officiating. Burial in the Burks Cemetery at Prichard. Surviving are the widow, one daughter, Miss Patty Marie Kelley of Ceredo, 6 sons, Marlin Kelley, U.S. Army, overseas, Sherman Kelley of the army, James, Roy Jack, Herbert and Ray Kelley of Ceredo; 2 sisters, Mrs. Rose Davis of Prichard and Mrs. Ellen Blankenship of Buffalo and one brother, S. M. Kelley of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Oct 22, 1943

KINNER, Burgess

Burgess (Burg) Kinner, 71, native of this county and for many years a well known business man of Greenup, died suddenly Monday night at the office of Dr. H. H. Holbrook in Greenup. He was stricken at his home and member of the family rushed him to the physician's office where he expired with a few minutes. Mr. Kinner, a son of the late Lafayette and Elizabeth Durney Kinner, was born at the mouth of Blaine, this county in 1872. He operated a general merchandise store at the mouth of Blaine for many years, moving to Greenup 35 years ago. Until his retirement 2 years ago, he had been engaged in the wholesale grocery business in Greenup for 32 yeas. He served 12 years as a member of the Greenup school board. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Irwin Kinner, 2 daughters, Mrs. Russell Davis, Lexington, KY, and Mrs. Davis Elam, East Orange, NJ; 3 sons, Sgt. Irwin Kinner, serving with the Army overseas and Paul and James Kinner of Greenup; 2 brothers, Fred Kinner of Catalpa, this county and John D. Kinner, present mayor of Greenup and a sister, Mrs. J. P. McCloskey, Columbia, KY. Funeral was conducted Thursday afternoon in Greenup with Rev. W. W. Garriott, pastor of the Methodist church, officiating, and interment was made at Hopewell, west of Greenup. Attending the rites from this county, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Kinner and F. B. Kinner of Catalpa, Mr. and Mrs. Earl W. Kinner of Louisa and Burg Bolt of Blaine. Big Sandy news, Oct 8, 1943

LANEY, Alifair

Mrs. Alifair Laney, 77, native of this county, died Saturday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Margaret Fraley in Portsmouth, OH. Deceased was born in this county May 17, 1864. the body was returned to Martin county for interment near Milo. Big Sandy News, Oct 29, 1943

PLYMALE, Sarah Adron (Billups)

Fort Gay, WV, Sep 29--Mrs. Sarah Adron Plymale, 75, widow of the late W. C. "Bill" Plymale of route 1, Prichard, WV, died last Saturday morning at her home on Queen's Creek following a stroke suffered Friday. She had been in failing health the past year. Funeral rites were conducted Monday afternoon from the Forks of Hurricane Baptist Church with Rev. Ben Curnutte and Rev. Spencer officiating. Deceased was born and reared on Queen's Creek, a daughter of the late Richard A. and Hulda Moore Billups, natives of Virginia. She had been a member of the Baptist Church for 62 years. Surviving are 2 daughters, Mrs. Arthur Skeens of Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Lee Tucker of Kenova, WV; 3 sons, Perry Plymale, Huntington, WV, Floyd Plymale, Portsmouth, OH, and Ralph Plymale, route 1, Prichard, and one sister, Mrs. J.H. McKinster, route 1, Fort Gay, WV. Her husband died in 1917. Big Sandy News, Oct 1, 1943

RICE, Sarah A. (Brainard)

Mrs. Sarah A. Rice, 49, wife of D. A. Rice of Webbville, route 1, died early Monday morning at the Rice home on Catt near Brammer Gap. She had been in failing health four years. Funeral rites were conducted at the home Wednesday morning at 10:30 with Rev. J. C. Hager of Louisa officiating. Deceased, a daughter of the late William and Lucinda Whitely Brainard, was born and reared near Brainard Gap. Besides the husband, she is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Glenn Jordan of route 1, Webbville and Miss Charlotte at home, 3 sons, Bernard Rice, Columbus, OH, Ronsford and Ronald Rice both at home, one sister, Mrs. Maggie Frasher, of route 1, Webbville, 4 brothers, Rev. Dan Brainard, Elizabethtown, TN, John Brainard, Baltimore, MD, Hobert Brainard, Detroit, MI, and Naaman Brainard, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Oct 15, 1943

SNOW, Mrs. David

Mrs. David Snow, 80, of Chattaroy, WV, died Tuesday of last week at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Victoria Hampton in Charleston. Deceased was born at Grassy, WV, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steward Porter and was a sister of John Porter of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Oct 29, 1943

SPILLMAN, Freddie Donald

Freddie Donald Spillman, 6 weeks old son of Mr. and Mrs. Willie Spillman of Gladys, died Thursday night of last week at the home of his grandmother, Mrs. Sarah Kitchen at Gladys, after a five day illness of pneumonia. Funeral was conducted Saturday at the Kitchen home with Rev. Fred Vanhorn officiating and interment made in the family cemetery at Gladys. Surviving besides the parents are a brother and sister and the grandmothers, Mrs. Victoria Spillman of route 3, Louisa and Mrs. Sarah Kitchen of Gladys. Big Sandy News, Oct 22, 1943

STEWART, Nancy Lucinda (Hogan)

1878-1943

Mrs. Nancy Lucinda Stewart, 65, wife of George W. Stewart of Buena Vista, Ashland, route 1, a native of East Fork died Monday evening at her home following an illness of the past year. She had been seriously ill for the past 3 weeks. Mrs. Stewart was born at East Fork, Jan 31, 1878, a daughter of W. H. and Elizabeth Hogan. Big Sandy news, Oct 29,1943

WEBB, Mary Ann

Diphtheria developing a week earlier proved fatal Friday morning to Mary Ann Webb, 2 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Webb at their home at Clifford. Funeral services were conducted Saturday afternoon at 2 at the Fitzpatrick Cemetery near Clifford where burial was made. Rev. Sam Maynard officiated at the rites. Besides the parents, the child is survived by 2 sisters, and 3 brothers, and its maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Rucker of Clifford. The family has been quarantined and all contacts immunized, the local health department reported. Big Sandy news, Oct 15, 1943

WHITE, Maude Elizabeth (Bryant)

Mrs. Maude Elizabeth Bryant White, 61, native of the Buchanan section of this county, died Saturday at the home of a son, Alfred White at Friendship, Boyd county. Funeral was conducted Monday at the Grassland Methodist Church and interment was made in the White family cemetery on Bear Creek. Mrs. White, a daughter of the late Johnson and Elizabeth Bryant, was born in this county but had resided in Boyd county the past 32 years. Surviving are 3 sons, Alfred White of Friendship, Orlando White of Balden, CO, and James Colegrove of route 1, Catlettsburg; a daughter, Mrs. Arnold Moore of Kirkville, OH, 3 brothers, Critt and Jim Bryant of Buchanan, KY and Jeff Bryant, Adeline, KY, one sister, Mrs. Martha Chaffins of Greenup, KY. Big Sandy News, Oct 1, 1943

WILLIAMS, Thelma (Hatten)

Fort Gay, WV, Oct 12--Mrs. Thelma Hatten Williams, 23, wife of Roy Williams, of Fort Gay, route 1, (Tabors Creek) died Friday night in a Huntington hospital following an illness of 4 days of complications. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon at 2:30 from the Forks of Hurricane Baptist Church, 4 miles from Fort Gay, with Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. A large assemblage attended. Deceased was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight M. Hatten of route 1, Prichard, WV. Besides her parents and husband, she is survived by 2 sisters, Mrs. Junior Frazier of Fort Gay and Miss Leta Hatten, at home, and by a grandfather, C. C. Hatten of route 1, Prichard, WV. Big Sandy news, Oct 15, 1943

WOOTEN, Fannie (Wimer)

Mrs. Fannie Wooten, 43, wife of Tom Wooten, of Washington, PA, a native of the Hulett section of this county, died Aug 11 at a hospital in Washington, PA. Attending the funeral from this county were Mrs. Purl Frasher, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Wooten and Mrs. T. A. Moore all of Hulett. Deceased was born at Alleppo, PA, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Wimer. She is survived by her mother, husband, daughter and sister. Big Sandy news, Oct 1, 1943

YATES, L. M.

M. (Clell) Yates, 74, retired carpenter and highly respected citizen of the Ridge section between Potter and Fallsburg, died  Sunday night at his home following an illness of a month. Funeral was conducted at the home Wednesday afternoon at 2 and interment made in the Bernard family cemetery near the home. Deceased, a son of the late Howard and Louise Atkins Yates, was born at Hanging Rock, OH, but came to this county with his parents early in life. He had resided near Fallsburg practically all of his life. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Bernard Yates, one son, Jess M. Yates , U. S. Army at Fort Eustice, VA, and 2 daughters, Miss Sarah Yates, at home and Mrs. Sol Savage, Louisa route 4. Mr. Yates had been a member of the United Baptist Church several years. Big Sandy News, Oct 22, 1943

NOVEMBER 1943

BAKER, William Roscoe

1880-1943

Fort Gay, WV, Nov 17--William Roscoe Baker, 63, well known Fort Gay carpenter and respected citizen, died Saturday night in a Louisa hospital a week after suffering a stroke. Deceased was born at Cordell, KY, Jun 19, 1880, a son of the late Jack and Susan Osborn Baker. He had lived at Fort Gay for many years. Funeral rites are incomplete pending the arrival of a son, John Homer Baker, serving in the U. S. Signal Corps in Florida. Mr. Baker is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ruby Daniels Baker; 5 daughters, Mrs. Joe George, Louisa, Mrs. Joe Bland, Waverly, OH, Mrs. Stanley Spaulding, Huntington, WV, Mrs. L. B. Crum, Jr., Glenhayes, WV and Mrs. Earl Lambert, Rittman, OH; 2 sons, John Homer Baker, U. S. Signal Corps in Florida and Joe Baker, Fort Gay; 3 sisters, Mrs. Walter Lester, Cordell, KY, Mrs. Carolyn Cordle, London, OH and Mrs. Thaddeus Cordle, Lancaster, OH and one brother, M. M. Baker, postmaster at Cordell, KY. Big Sandy News, Nov 19, 1943

BORDERS, Mary Alice (Young)

Mrs. Mary Alice Borders, 69, wife of Martin Borders, and a native of this county, died at the Borders home in Huntington Monday. Brief funeral rites were conducted Wednesday morning in Huntington, after which the body was brought to this county and taken to Ulysses where funeral rites were conducted at the Freewill Baptist Church Wednesday afternoon with Rev. Millard Vanhoose officiating. Burial was in the family cemetery near Ulysses. Surviving are her husband, Martin Borders, 2 daughters, Mrs. John Short and Mrs. Oliver Lane of Huntington, 3 sons, F. G. Borders of Huntington, J. H. Borders of Akron, OH and F. M. Borders, Monroe, LA; 3 sisters, Mrs. Nellie Chaffin of Ashland, KY, Mrs. Linda Daniels of Bowman, KY and Mrs. Julia Crace of Catlettsburg, KY; 3 brothers, Garfield Young, of Adams, KY, Frank Young of Lomansville, KY and Grant Young of Ashland and 12 grandchildren. Big Sandy news, Nov 26, 1943

BRANHAM, Charles Eugene

Coxswain Charles Eugene Branham, 23, of Glenhayes, WV, has been killed in action while serving on a destroyer and was buried at sea, according to a message received from the Navy department last Thursday by his parents, James F. and Jessie Sammons Branham of Glenhayes. Coxswain Branham enlisted in the Navy Jan 1, 1941, and was serving in the Atlantic or Mediterranean  relatives believe. He was a nephew of Major Nile Sammons of Clifford now in the Army Air Force in North Africa. He has a brother serving in the Navy--Seaman Jack M. Branham. Also surviving are 2 other brothers, 3 sisters and his parents. His father is a retired N & W Railway employee. The message received from the Navy department last week reads:

Mr. and Mrs. James Franklin Branham, Glenhayes, WV

The Navy Department deeply regrets to inform you that your son Charles Eugene Branham, Coxswain, U. S. Navy, was killed in action in the performance of his duty and in the service of his country. The department extends to you its sincere sympathy in your great loss. On account of existing conditions, the body was buried at sea. If further details are received, you will be informed. To prevent possible aid to our enemies, please do not divulge the name of his ship or station. Rear Admiral Randal Jacobs, Chief of Naval Personnel. Big Sandy News, Nov 5, 1943

CALLOWAY, H. C.

C. Calloway, of Bluefield, VA died Oct 29 at his home in Bluefield, VA. He had been connected with the Bluefield Daily Telegraph as Editor of the Virginia Daily News in that paper for the past 45 years. He was an older brother of B. J. Calloway of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Nov 5, 1943

CANADY, Nancy (Stepp)

Mrs. Nancy Stepp Canady, 73, wife of William Canady of McCarr, KY, died Thursday at her home. Deceased was born and reared on Wolf Creek near Pilgrim, Martin County, a daughter of Rev. Elias and Peggy Stepp. Big Sandy news, Nov 26, 1943

CASKEY, W. A.

West Liberty, KY--Former Morgan County Judge W. A. Caskey, 62, died Monday after a brief illness. Big Sandy News, Nov 12, 1943

DEAN, Willie

Fort Gay, WV, Nov 3--The body of Willie Dean, 65, who died Sunday at his home in Kenova, was brought to Fort Gay following funeral in Kenova Tuesday and taken to the Billups Gap cemetery 2 miles east of Fort Gay for interment. Deceased, a son of the late B. C. and Missouri Wellman Dean, was born in Fort Gay. He had lived in Kenova 30 years. Surviving are 5 brothers, Edgar Dean, Fort Gay, Sam and Fred Dean, both of Kenova, Roy Dean of Canal Fulton, OH and Bert Dean of Charleston, WV; 2 sisters, Mrs. Fred Frickle of Canal Fulton, OH and Mrs. Dewey Fuller of Akron, OH. Big Sandy News, Nov 5, 1943

DUNCAN, Major

Major Duncan, 61, retired N & W freight agent at Kermit, WV, died Saturday following an illness of several months. He was born at Nolan, WV, a son of Mr. and Mrs. B. A. Duncan. Surviving are his wife, Rebecca Duncan and several son and daughters. Big Sandy news, Nov 19, 1943

GILKERSON, Edna (Davis)

Fort Gay, WV, Nov 23--Mrs. Edna Gilkerson, 68, died last Thursday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Olive Meredith at Centerville. Funeral was conducted Sunday morning at Shiloah Methodist Church near Prichard with Rev. Enos Scraggs of Fort Gay and Rev. Henry Mullens of Wayne, officiating, and interment was made in the Davis cemetery. She is survived by 2  daughters, Mrs. Meredith and Mrs. Sadie Shy of route 2, Prichard; 2 sons, Henry Gilkerson and Oval Phillips, both of route 2, Prichard; a brother, Jack Davis of route 2 Prichard and 3 sisters, Mrs. Ida Hayton, Mrs. Margaret Hatten and Mrs. Rosie Allen, all of route 2, Prichard. Big Sandy News, Nov 26, 1943

GRAHAM, J. E. (Jim)

Word has been received here of the death of J. E. (Jim) Graham, at Spokane, WV. His death came on Nov 4 at Sacred hospital, where he had been ill of pneumonia for a few days. Mr. Graham was born in Lawrence County but went to Washington as a youth where he had lived since that time. At the time of his death he owned and operated a feed and grain store at Verndale, WV. He is survived by 3 brothers, J. N. Graham, Spokane, WV, L. W. and V. E. Graham of Cherokee, this county and one sister, Mrs. F. H. Moore of Winchester, KY. Big Sandy News, Nov 19, 1943

HOOSIER, Earl

Fort Gay, WV, Nov 23--Earl Hoosier, 40, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Hoosier, of route 1, Prichard, WV, died Tuesday of last week in a Weston, WV hospital. The body was returned to Wayne county and funeral was conducted Saturday at Shiloah Methodist Church near Prichard with Rev. Ben Curnutte officiating. Interment was made in the Davis Cemetery. Surviving besides the parents are 2 sisters, Mrs. Basil Reed of Huntington and Mrs. Paul Pickle of Charleston, WV. Big Sandy news, Nov 26, 1943

LYON, Lora (Wallen)

1883-1943

Keaton, KY, Nov 16--We are sorry indeed to report the passing of Mrs. Sherman Lyon at her home at Keaton Monday afternoon, Nov 8, after a prolonged illness and much suffering the last week or so before her death. She had been in poor health ever since she suffered the first stroke a few years ago. The last stroke, which caused her death, also caused her untold suffering until death came to relieve her. We are at a loss to find words to describe the grief and sorrow at the passing of such a good woman, but we feel that the influence of such a good Christian woman will live on and on and we feel she is resting from her labors among which was that of ministering to the sick and afflicted in the neighborhood and in which capacity she will be sadly missed.. Mrs. Lyons was converted early in life and lived a conscientious Christian life until death. She was a member of Red Bush church of the Enterprise Baptist. the funeral was conducted Wednesday at the church at Christian Union and several ministers being present, each spoke a few words of comfort to the bereaved husband and children. She leaves her husband and four children, Mrs. Ray McKenzie of Flat Gap, Tivis of Keaton, and Con and Kerlin of the U. S. Army, besides a host of other relatives and friends. She was laid to rest in the Lyons Cemetery, there to await the summons of her Master at the resurrection morning to enter into the joys of the Lord and enjoy Heaven with all its glory as a reward for having lived a faithful Christian while here on earth, amid trial and hardships that every true Christian has to undergo. Big Sandy News, Nov 19, 1943

MAY, James Jefferson

James Jefferson May, 85, well known retired farmer of Cherokee died Tuesday at the home of a son, Morgan Wheeler. funeral was conducted Thursday and interment made in the family cemetery. Big Sandy News, Nov 5, 1943

MEADE, Robert J.

1919-1943

Pvt. Robert J. Meade, 24, of Glenhayes, WV, who has been a prisoner of the Japanese since the fall of the Philippines, died in a Jap prison camp recently according to a telegram received from the War Department Monday by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Luther Meade of Glenhayes. The telegram stated merely that Pvt. Meade was reported dead in the Jap prison and that a letter would follow as soon as additional information was received. Pvt. Meade volunteered in the Army 10 months before Pearl Harbor and was with Gen. Douglas McArthur's forces in the Philippines when the Japs attacked. He was officially reported as missing in action in the spring of 1942 and later was reported as a prisoner of war. His mother, the former Miss Mary Wilson, received one card from her son while he was in prison--a form printed card on which he had checked that he was in usual health. He was a brother of Mrs. Homer Perry of near Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Nov 19, 1943

PERDUE, Clifford

Fort Gay, WV, Nov 23--Clifford Perdue, 33, former resident of route 1, Prichard, was accidentally killed in Detroit, MI Nov 15. The body was returned to Wayne county and funeral was conducted Saturday at Kenova with Rev. U. S. Pinson officiating. Burial was made in Dock's Creek Cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. M. O. Perdue of Kenova; the widow, 2 sons, Donald and Bruce Perdue of Prichard, 2 daughters, Phyllis and Josephine Perdue of Prichard; 4 brothers, Alfred Perdue of Lockland, OH, Shelby Perdue of Kenova, Sergeant George Perdue of Fort Leonard Wood, MO and Corporal Carl Perdue of Fort Benning, GA and a half brother, John Riggs of Logan and 4 sisters, Misses Olive and Martha Perdue of Detroit, Mrs. Myrtle Plymale of Everest, WV and Mrs. Mildred Plyburn of Kenova. Big Sandy News, Nov 26, 1943

PERRY, Wade

Richardson, KY, Nov 24--Sorry to report the death of Wade Perry of near this place, Wednesday Nov 17. He worked for the gas company for 15 years and was working on Wolf Creek at the time of his death. He died suddenly of a heart attack. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Cinda Hammonds Perry, and by 4 daughters and 3 sons, Mrs. Arthur Wooten, Richardson, Mrs. Sherman Marcum, McVeigh, KY, Mrs. Lawrence Haney, Milo, Eunice, at home, Sherman of Rockcastle and Arthur and Joy at home. Big Sandy News, Nov 26, 1943

SPARKS, Labe T.

Labe T. Sparks of Portsmouth, OH, native of Elliott county, died Wednesday of last week in the Veterans Hospital in Huntington. A veteran of World War I, Sparks was born in Elliott county a son of Frank and Matilda Sparks. His father now lives at Walsh, Greenup county. He is also survived by his wife and 2 children. Burial was made at Shultz, KY. Big Sandy News, Nov 26, 1943

STAMBAUGH, Ruth (Wheeler)

Mrs. Ruth Wheeler Stambaugh, 34, wife of Frank Stambaugh of Kenova and a native of Flat Gap, KY died Thursday of last week at her home in Kenova. She was the daughter of Shanklin and Mollie Slone Wheeler of Flat Gap. Big Sandy News, Nov 5, 1943

THOMPSON, James Henry

James Henry Thompson, 75, well known retired Lawrence county school teacher, died Monday midnight at the home of a brother, J. Thompson at Cordell. He had been in failing health more than a year. Death was caused by pneumonia and complications.. Funeral rites were conducted at the J. W. Thompson home at Cordell Wednesday at 4 p.m. with Rev. William W. Moore officiating, and interment made in the Baker Cemetery at Cordell. He is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Wid Carp of Ashland and Mrs. Clyde Spears of Columbus, one son, Bromley Thompson of Columbus, 2 sisters, Mrs. Lina Moore of Columbus and Mrs. James Carter of Adams, and one brother, J. W. Thompson of Cordell. In addition to teaching school, Mr. Thompson served one term as Lawrence County superintendent of schools and one term as county road and bridge commissioner. Big Sandy News, Nov 19, 1943

TRAVIS, Samantha (Tackett)

1879-1943

Mrs. Samantha Travis, 64, of Lucasville, widow of Marion Travis, died Monday in Portsmouth General hospital following an illness of complications.  She was born Jul 20, 1879, in this county and 20 years ago moved to Ohio, locating for a while in New Boston before moving to Lucasville. She belonged to the United Baptist Church for 45 years. Surviving are the following children, Mrs. Marie Yorks and Mrs. Eva Kurzwell of Pontiac, MI, Mrs. Laura Barker of Minford Pike, Hermalee Travis of Dayton, Roy, Hubert and Richard Travis of Lucasville and Russell Travis of Toledo, 9 grandchildren and these brothers and sisters, Mrs. C. B. Collins, of Garrison, George, Jesse and Briten Tackett of this county. Burial was in Lucasville Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Nov 5, 1943

UTTER, Sylvia (Hunter)

Mrs. Sylvia Utter, daughter of J. Thomas and Roselia Crand Hunter, died at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Lexington, Nov 12. She is survived by her mother, 3 brothers, Joe, Walter, and Herbert Hunter; 4 sisters, Lea, Anne, Elizabeth and Magdalene; one daughter, Rosalene, wife of Representative Roy Taylor of Augusta, formerly of Louisa; 4 grandchildren, Art, Maureen, Margaret Rose and Martha Ann. Mrs. Utter for a number of years operated a store at Foster, KY. For the past 6 years she has lived with her daughter and Mr. Taylor in Augusta. She had been suffering from heart trouble for some time but had consented to going to the hospital only 10 days before her death. Mrs. Utter was born Jan 26, 1880 in Pendleton County, KY. She passed away at the age of 63 years 9 months and 6 days. Funeral services were conducted Sunday at the Methodist Church in Augusta with Rev. C. L. Cooper and Rev. E. B. Scott officiating. Burial at the Johnsville Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Nov 19,1943

WALTERS, H. C.

C. Walters, 81, a brother of Robert Walters, Mrs. Mary Swetnam and Mrs. Sallie Graham of Blaine, died 2 weeks ago at his home in Shreveport, LA. A native of Johnson County, Mr. Walters went south in 1881 and had been associated the past 45 years with the Long-Bell Lumber Co. in Louisiana as land and timber agent, Mrs. Elizabeth Davis of Williamsport is another sister. Big Sandy News, Nov 12, 1943

WEBB, Fred

Fort Gay, WV, Nov 1--Fred Webb, 57, farmer of Wayne, route 1, died at his home at Coleman Wednesday of last week 5 days after suffering a stroke. Deceased was born on Big Hurricane near Fort Gay, a son of John M. and Sarah Copley Webb, pioneer Wayne county citizens. Funeral was conducted Sunday morning at the Twelvepole Valley Baptist Church, of which he was a member, with Rev. O. F. Hutton officiating. Interment was made in the Watts cemetery at Genoa. The Wayne Masonic Lodge, of which he was a member, will conduct its ritual at the interment. Mr. Webb is survived by his wife, Mrs. Frankie Watts Webb, one daughter, Mrs. Spurgeon Copley of Rittman, OH, 3 sons, Air Force Sergeant Chester Webb, Fort Myers, FL, Ernest Webb of Genoa, WV and Clarence Webb of route 1, Wayne, WV and 2 sisters, Mrs. Alice Christian and Mrs. William Watts, both of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Nov 5, 1943

WEBB, J. M.

1872-1943

M. Webb, 71, well known citizen of near Webbville, died at his home Tuesday at 4 p.m. after suffering a stroke Sunday. Deceased was  born at Webbville, Feb 6, 1872, a son of J. C. and Rebecca Wright Webb, pioneer citizens and had lived there all of his life. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. Funeral will be conducted at the home at a time with Rev. G. G. Bentley officiating. Time of the funeral will be determined after word is received from a son serving in the Army in Washington. Mr. Webb is survived by his wife, Mrs. Louanna Cordle Webb, 3 daughters, Mrs. Ephriam Enyart and Mrs. J.O. Moore, both of Columbus, OH, and Mrs. Troy Caldwell of Webbville; 7 sons, Lonza Webb of Webbville, Rev. C. A. Webb, Raceland, KY, Buchanan, Kenneth, Lee and Elwood Webb, all of Columbus, OH and E. C. Webb, U. S. Army Fort Lewis, WA and by one brother, Paris Webb, Webbville. Big Sandy News, Nov 26, 1943

WIECHERS, W. F.

F. "Bill" Wiechers, 53, a former resident of Louisa, died Monday at his home in Saginaw, MI. The body was returned to Huntington where funeral was conducted Thursday. Interment was made in Woodmere cemetery, Huntington, with member of the Masonic lodge conducting their ritual. Mr. Wiechers resided in Louisa from 1918 to 1924 while serving as land agent for the Pure Oil company. He moved to Huntington in 1924 and later to Saginaw. He was a member of the Louisa Masonic lodge and also of the Bay City, MI Consistory, El Khurafeh Shrine and the Germania. He is survived by his wife, the former Miss Nova Plybon of Huntington, the mother who resides in Cincinnati, one sister, Miss Louisa Wiechers and 2 brothers, Henry Wiechers, at home and Charles Wiechers of Prestonsburg, KY. Big Sandy News, Nov 19, 1943

WILLIAMS, Ashby David

Ashby David Williams, 40, died Tuesday at the home of his father, Jake Williams, at Hannah. Funeral was conducted at the Jake Williams home at Hannah Thursday and interment will be made in the family cemetery there. Deceased was born and reared at Hannah and had lived there all of his life except for 2 years when he worked in Columbus, OH for the Columbus Bolt Works. He was a member of the Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mary Phillips Williams, 5 sisters, Mrs. G. C. Moore, Mrs. C. E. Bard and Mrs. F. B. Joseph, all of Columbus, Mrs. Frank Polley of Portsmouth and Mrs. Effie Summers, Seattle, WA and 4 brothers,  Iron, Jesse, William and Luther Williams all of Columbus. Big Sandy News, Nov 12, 1943

WOOTEN, Clyde W.

1917-1943

First Lieutenant Clyde W. Wooten of Louisa, who had fought with the Seventh U. S. Army Air Force in the Solomans area since last May as a bombardier, was killed in action Nov 16 over Munda, the Ward Department informed his mother, Mrs. L. C. Wooten, here Tuesday:

The terse telegram read:

Mrs. Cora Wooten, Louisa, KY

The Secretary of War desires me to express his deepest regrets that your son, First Lieutenant Clyde W. Wooten was killed in action over Munda on 16th of November. Letter will follow. Adjutant General

Details of the mission on which he was killed, of course, are not known here, but Lt. Wooten had completed his maximum number of combat missions sometime late in October and was due to come home before he went on the "extra" mission that proved fatal. On Nov 5, he wrote he had completed his combat hours and was eligible for a leave but that replacements had not arrived. Near the end of one of his letters written early this month he said "Sixteen kisses, 16 hugs and 16th of November at 4:40 in the morning, "indicating that he was scheduled for and "extra" mission and no doubt, an important one on that date. The telegram said he was killed in action over Munda. Munda is a base halfway between Guadalcanal and Bouganville. Press dispatch describing air force action in that theatre on Nov 16 indicates that the Seventh Air Force had been busy day and night harassing Jap naval unites throughout the area.

Lt. Wooten volunteered in the Army Air Force April 25, 1941, and received his basic training at Kilington Field, TX. He was transferred to the Bombardier Army Flying School at the Army Air Base, Victorville, CA, Feb 24, 1942 and received his wings as a bombardier there May 24, 1942. He went to the South Pacific with the Army Air Force bomber group last May and was promoted to first lieutenant Jul 17. He was crew bomber on a four-motored bomber at the time of his death. Lt. Wooten, one of Louisa's most popular and esteemed young men, was born Jan 17, 1917. He was graduated from Louisa high school in 1934 and attended Morehead College 3 years. He quit college in his junior year to become bookkeeper for the Louisa Supply Company, a firm owned by his family, and served in this capacity until volunteering in the Air Force 8 months before Pearl Harbor. He was a member of the Louisa Methodist Church. at Morehead he was a member of the Campus Club, the Dramatics Club and the Art Club. Lt. Wooten has a younger brother, Technical Sergeant Wayne Wooten, serving in the Air Force at McChord Field, IN.  A third brother, Russell Wooten, was inducted into the Army last week. Besides his parents, Lt. Wooten is survived by 3 sisters, Mrs. W. E. Kouns, Louisa, Mrs. M. H. Holiday, Jr., Jackson, KY and Mrs. James H. Woods, Jr., Piney Point, MD and 4 brothers, Earl Wooten, California, Charles and Russell of Louisa and S. Sgt. Wayne Wooten, McChord Field, IN. Big Sandy News, Nov 26, 1943

DECEMBER 1943

ADAMS, Thurmond

Thurmond Adams, 27, of route 1, Webbville, died in a local hospital last Friday night of injuries sustained 12 hours earlier when a tree which he helped saw down, fell on him. Adams and his father, Rube Adams, were sawing down a walnut tree on the Adams farm near Hinton Knobb, 18 miles from Louisa, when the accident occurred. Top of the walnut tree lodged in the tip of a nearby tree and the butt swing back and hit young Adams, falling across his abdomen and causing internal injuries. Funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon at 2 from the home with Rev. Fred Vanhorn and Rev. Jack Perry officiating and interment was made in the Holbrook Cemetery near the home. Deceased is survived by his parents, Rube and Rebecca Holbrook Adams, his wife, Mrs. Louella Cooksey Adams, a sister, Mrs. Nigle Kitchen, Gladys and 2 brothers, Willie Adams, Midland, PA and Leonard Adams, at home. Big Sandy News, Dec 3, 1943

BARTRAM, Gypsy (Brown)

1893-1943

Fort Gay, WV, Dec 14--Mrs. Gypsy Brown Bartram, 50, widow of the late J. Frank Bartram of Fort Gay, WV died early last Friday morning in a Louisa hospital. She had been ill 18 months. Funeral rites were conducted Monday afternoon in the Bartram Chapel Methodist church on Mill Creek, 4 miles from Fort Gay. The body was removed from the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa to the home of a step daughter, Mrs. Theron Copley on Paddle Creek, Sunday afternoon and remained there until time of the funeral. Deceased was born at Crum, WV, a daughter of Joshua and Sarah Bowen Brown. She moved to Fort Gay 31 years ago and had lived there until a year ago except for 10 years when the family lived in Raceland, KY. She had resided in Louisa the past year. Deceased was a member of the Bartram Chapel Methodist Church. Surviving are 3 daughters Mrs. Marvin Johnson, Hager Hill, KY, Mrs. Archie Bartram, Mansfield, OH and Miss Georgia Bartram of Louisa; one son Sgt. Frank Bartram, Jr., serving in the Army Air Force in Texas; 5 sisters, Mrs. William Adams, Raceland, KY, Mrs. Jerry See, Mansfield, OH, Mrs. Matt Jude, Thacker, WV, Mrs. Jud Mullens, Glen Alum, WV and Mrs. Joseph Stacey, War Eagle, WV and 2 brothers, George Brown, Crum, WV and Wallace Brown, serving in the Army overseas. Big Sandy News, Dec 17, 1943

BELCHER, William

1855-1943

William "Bud" Belcher, 87, a retired blacksmith and native of this county, died Monday in Lawrence county General Hospital in Ironton, OH, where he had been a patient since suffering a stroke four weeks earlier. Deceased was born at East Fork, this county, Dec 16, 1855, a son of Isaac and Elizabeth Riffe Belcher. Mr. Belcher had lived at the mouth of Catt, the mouth of Blaine and on Bells Trace, moving to Lawrence county, OH about 2 years ago. He was a blacksmith by trade and also engaged in the saw mill business. Funeral was conducted Thursday in the Ice Creek Baptist Church at Deering, OH and interment was made in the Woodland Cemetery at Ironton. He is survived by 4 daughters, Mrs. T. J. Dean, Coal Grove, OH, Mrs. W. D. Chadwick, Cadmus, KY, Mrs. F. B. Keller, Akron, OH and Mrs. Ben Hawes, route 1, Ironton, OH, and by one son, John R. Belcher, South Point, OH and a brother, Isaac A. Belcher, Ironton, OH. His wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Neal Belcher, died 11 years ago. Big Sandy News, Dec 3, 1943

BENCH, William

William Bench, 68, a native of Wayne county, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Bench, died Tuesday of last week at Chattaroy. Mrs. Rachel Smith of Fort Gay is a sister. Burail was made in Borderland. Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

BRYAN, Jack

The body of Jack Bryan, 70, former merchant and farmer of Zelda, was brought back Thursday night from Columbus, OH, where he was fatally injured when hit by an automobile Thursday morning. The body was prepared for burial at the Curtright Funeral Home here. Funeral rites were conducted in the Buchanan Chapel Methodist Church near Zelda Monday afternoon, and interment was made in the Buchanan Chapel cemetery. Mr. Bryan, who had been in Columbus the past 15 months employed as a night watchman for the Douglas Guardian Warehouse Corp. suffered a skull and fractured leg when hit by a car driven by one E. H. Creeger of Columbus, who was not held responsible for the accident by Columbus police. He died in St. Francis Hospital in Columbus shortly after being admitted. A native of this county, Mr. Bryan owned a farm at Zelda and conducted a general store there for a number of years. He went to Columbus in September of last year. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lizzie Burton Bryan, one daughter, Mrs. P. d. Sartin, Georgetown, KY, and one son, Cpl. Elbert Butt Bryan, stationed at Fort Lewis, WA. Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

CHAFFIN, Alice

Alice Chaffin, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michel Chaffin of Ashland, died Sunday morning. The body was brought to this county and taken to the Twin Branch for interment. She is survived by the parents, a twin sister, Alma, another sister, Sonja; 2 brothers, Wray and Demoin. Big Sandy News, Dec 17, 1943

CHILDERS, Haden

1850-1943

Haden Childers, 94, farmer and respected citizen of Richardson, died Dec. 27 at his home.   Deceased was born on Georges Creek, a son of Russell and Betty Wells Childers, members of pioneer Big Sandy families.  He had lived at Richardson the past 35 years. Funeral rites will be conducted Thursday afternoon at 2 in the Baptist Church near Richardson with Rev. German Walters officiating. He had been a member of the Baptist Church for 55 years. Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Ruth Davis, Richardson; Mrs. Lafe Preston and Mrs. Glen Davis, both of Paintsville; three sons, Reck, Frank and Harmon Childers, all of Richardson; a sister, Miss Pricie Childers, Hager KY. And a brother, Pres Childers of Paintsville. His wife, Mrs. Mary Borders Childers, died in 1936.

Big Sandy News, Dec 31, 1943

DEMPSEY, Mrs. Essie

On Nov 30, 1943, the little town of Inez, KY was completely shocked to learn of the sudden passing of Mrs. Essie Dempsey. Not only was Inez stirred, but all of the surrounding communities were sadden when the news rapidly spread that their neighbor and kindly friend. Mrs. Essie Dempsey, widow of the late Lewis Dempsey, had been called unexpectedly to make her, "crossing of the bar." It is seldom the good fortune of most people to become what men often call and "institution". Mrs. Essie Dempsey was thrice blessed along this line. She was an Institution, first of all in that she was a loving, sacrificing and devoted mother of four accomplished daughters--Mrs. Charles Barton of Warfield, KY, Mrs. E. P. Stepp of Kermit, WV, Mrs. Evelyn Moss and Mrs. Corrine Cooper, both of Inez, Martin Co., KY. Big Sandy news, Dec 24, 1943

DERIFIELD, Anna Elizabeth (Ingle)

1858-1943

Mrs. Anna Elizabeth Derifield, 85, wife of William C. Derifield of Clifford died Nov 25 at the home of a son, Charles Derifield at Clifford. She had been ill since suffering a stroke 2 months ago. Deceased was born in Wise county, VA in 1858, a daughter of Jefferson and Mary Robinette Ingle. She came to this county 55 years ago and had lived at Clifford since. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church 50 years and was one of the county's most respected citizens. Funeral was conducted Saturday at the home of her son at Clifford with Rev. Nelson Hughes officiating, and interment was made in the family cemetery. A large assemblage attended the rites. Besides her husband, she is survived by 4 daughters, Mrs. Sam Branham, Mrs. William Martin and Mrs. Frank Peters, all of Clifford and Mrs. Taylor Frazier of Ashland; 2 sons, Charles and M. F. Derefield both of Clifford; 2 sisters, Mrs. Polly Meade, Coburn, VA and Mrs. Sarah Robinette of Georgia; and one brother, J. M. Ingle of Thacker, WV. Big Sandy News, Dec 3, 1943

ESTEP, William Henry

1865-1943

Death claimed William Henry Estep 83 year old resident of Flat Gap, Dec 13. Mr. Estep was buried at the home cemetery on Tuesday. The son of Ambrose J. and Jane Holbrook Estep, Mr. Estep had been a farmer his entire life. Fifty-six years ago he married Hollie Ann Evans who survived, in addition to the following children, Ambrose J. , Wallace, Mrs. Sarah J. Cantrell, Martha and Walter, all of Flat Gap. Brothers and sisters surviving are Scott, Paris, Bob, Mrs. Minnie LeMaster, Mrs. Maude Cantrell and Mrs. Frankie Ellen Conley. Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

FRASHER , Ned

Fort Gay, WV. Dec 14--Ned Wallace Frasher, 25, a former resident who moved from Mill Creek to Mansfield, OH, last August to work for the Great Lakes Steel Co., died suddenly of a heart attack at the home of his father-in-law, A. E. Seamour near Fort Gay Sunday shortly before noon. He had come back Friday on a short visit, and was stricken while talking with members of the family in the home and died in a few moments. Deceased was a son of G. J. and Della Thompson Frasher of Fort Gay route 1, the Mill Creek section. Besides his parents, he is survived by his wife, Mrs. Bertha Marie Frasher, 3 sisters, Mrs. Norman Henderson, Mrs. Carl Elliott and Miss Nellie Frasher, all of Wadsworth, OH, Miss Elizabeth Frasher at home and 2 brothers, Bleucher Frasher, Rittman, OH and Lucian Frasher, stationed in the U. S. Army in California. Funeral arrangements are incomplete pending the arrival of the brother in California. Big Sandy News, Dec 17, 1943

FRASHER, William V.

1847-1943

Fort Gay, WV, Dec 22--William V. Frasher, 97, retired farmer and well known citizen of the Mill Creek section near Fort Gay, died Sunday noon at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Harry E. Robertson near Fort Gay. Deceased, a son of John L. and Mary Wellman, pioneer Wayne County citizens, was born in Fort Gay May 15, 1847 and had spent all his life in and near Fort Gay. He had been a member of the Methodist Church since the age of 18. Funeral rites were conducted Tuesday morning at 11 in the Fort Gay Methodist church with Rev. Henry Mullens of Wayne officiating and interment made in the Frasher Cemetery at Fort Gay. Deceased is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Robertson, Mrs. N. B. Ferguson, Huntington, and Mrs. Beckie Sipples, Fort Gay; and 3 sons, Reynolds Frasher, present mayor of For Gay, G. J. Frasher, of route 1, Fort Gay and John L. Frasher of Kenova. He also leaves 29 grandchildren, 42 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren. Big Sandy news, Dec 24, 1943

GAMBILL, Tommie

Tommie Gambill, 25, native of Red Bush, died Dec 8 at Columbus, OH, in which city he had been working the past 2 years. Death was attributed an infection resulting from an accident which occurred on his job. His wife, Mary Rowland, and 2 children survive. The body was returned to Red Bush and services were held at the Baptist church at Red Bush on Sunday. Burial was in the home cemetery. Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

HEWLETT, Maude

Miss Maude Hewlett, 59, daughter of the late Rev. H. B. Hewlett and Adelaide Riffe Hewlett of Louisa, died Friday afternoon in a Lexington hospital and the body was returned to Louisa Friday night. Funeral rites were conducted Monday morning at 10 at the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa with Rev. L. M. Rogers, pastor of the Methodist Church, officiating, and interment was made in the Riffe cemetery on U. S. 23 at the mouth of the East Fork road. Deceased was reared here but had lived in Lexington for the past 14 years. She had been a member of the Methodist Church since early girlhood. She is survived by 3 brothers, Linus and Richard Hewlett both of Louisa and Horton D. Hewlett of Drift, KY and 2 uncles, John and Theodore Riffe, of Louisa route 4 and by 4 aunts. Big Sandy News, Dec 10, 1943

HUGHES, William Andrew

William Andrew Hughes, 80, native Lawrence countian, died Sunday morning at his home in Catlettsburg after an illness of 7 months. Deceased was born in this county, a son of Jarred and Jerimah White Hughes, and had lived in Catlettsburg for the past 4 years. He was a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church. Surviving are 4 sons, Frank of England Hill, William of Ashland, Milton of Huntington, and Lon of Montgomery, AL, one daughter, Mrs. Bass Crank of Ashland, 2 brothers, Dave Hughes, of Busseyville, KY and Marion Hughes of route 1, Catlettsburg, and one sister, Mrs. Mellie Davis of Middletown, KY. Funeral services were conducted from the Enterprise Baptist Church, Catlettsburg, Tuesday afternoon with Rev. Manuel Sherman, pastor, and Rev. Walter Pack, officiating. Burial was in the Catlettsburg Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

JUDD, Mary Elizabeth (Daniel)

1859-1943

Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Judd, 84, died Wednesday shortly before noon at her home at Charley. She had been ill 4 years. Deceased was born on Tom's Creek in Johnson County, a daughter of Thomas and Agnes Swann Daniel, and came to this county with her parents at the age of 14. Her first husband, Jasper Hinkle, died 55 years ago. Her second husband, Roland B. Judd, who died 28 years ago. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church 66 years. Funeral will be conducted Friday at 10:30 at the Mary's Chapel at Charley and Rev. William Daniels and Rev. Roscoe Lemaster officiating. Surviving are 2 daughters, Mrs. Sam Castle of route 1, Louisa, and Mrs. Lindsey Miller of Charley, 4 sons, Dolly Hinkle, Lowmansville, Lonzo Hinkle, Charley, Fred Hinkle, state of Washington, and Roy Judd, Lowmansville, 2 sisters, Mrs. William Johnson, Charley and Mrs. Ira Preston, Tutor Key, and 4 half brothers, John, Tom and Burns Daniels, all of Tutor Key and Julius Daniels, Whitehouse. Big Sandy News, Dec 3, 1943

JUSTICE, Bertha (Layne)

Mrs. Bertha Layne Justice, 32, wife of Cecil Justice of Ashland, OH, died Dec 4 in the Avalon Sanitarium at Mt. Vernon, OH, relatives in this county have been informed. Deceased was born and reared at Hulette, this county. Left an orphan at an early age, she was reared in the home of Mrs. Exona Layne at Hulette. She moved to Ohio 6 years ago and had been ill 3 years. She was a member of the Methodist church. Funeral was conducted Dec 7 at the Bearie Funeral Home in Ashland, OH and interment made there. Surviving besides the husband are 2 sons, David and Charles, at home. Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

LAMBERT, William

William Lambert, 54, of Webb, WV, who died at his home Dec 1, was buried in the Dock's Creek Cemetery, following funeral services in Kenova, by Rev. Green. Mr. Lambert was a section foreman with the Norfolk and Western Railway Co. He is survived by the widow, Mrs. Julia Lambert, one daughter, Mrs. Esther Hall of Huntington, 3 brothers, Henry, Carnie and Elmer, of Aflex, KY, 5 sisters, Mrs. Nokie Lawson of Aflex, Mrs. Mary McCoy of Detroit, Mrs. Elizabeth Morris of Lima, OH, Mrs. Emma Fields of West Virginia and Mrs. Frances Lester of Kenova. Big Sandy News, Dec 17, 1943

LEWIS, John H.

John H. Lewis, 65, of Dry Run near Portsmouth, OH, died Nov 26. He was born in Elliott county, a son of Johnathan and Ellen Lewis. He served as a policeman in Portsmouth and in later years operated the Commercial Hotel there. David and D. J. Lewis of Elliott county are brothers. Big Sandy News, Dec 3, 1943

LIVISAY, Foster

Fort Gay, WV, Dec 15--Forster Livisay, 83, respected colored citizen of Fort Gay died Tuesday following an illness of 13 days. Funeral will be conducted Thursday afternoon at 2:30 at the home of a brother, Grant Livisay in Fort Gay, with Rev. J. C. Hager of Louisa, officiating. Deceased was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church. Livisay, born at Floyd, VA, moved to Fort Gay 75 years ago. He is survived by a daughter, Mamie Cardwell of Fort Gay; 2 sisters, Mrs. Ruth Lee and Mrs. Ella Braxton, both of Huntington and 2 brothers, Grant of Fort Gay and Stansberry Livisay of Roanoke, VA. Big Sandy News, Dec 17, 1943

LUSK, Lillian (Cooksey)

Fort Gay, WV, Dec 1--Mrs. Lillian Cooksey Lusk, 49, widow of the late Chester Lusk of Fort Gay, died in a Huntington hospital Tuesday. Mr. and Mrs. Lusk came to Fort Gay 3 years ago and operated a restaurant here. Mr. Lusk, died 4 months ago and Mrs. Lusk had been ill since then. She is survived by her father, L. C. Cooksey of Catlettsburg, a brother, Fred Cooksey of Detroit, and 5 sisters, Mr. L. J. McKelvey, Brooklyn, MI, Mrs. Mattie Carter, Lockbourne, OH, Mrs. Curtis Napier, Catlettsburg, Mrs. Marie Garele, Fort Wayne, IN and Mrs. James Stover, Huntington. Mrs. Lusk was born and raised in Lawrence county, KY. Big Sandy News, Dec 3, 1943

MAY, Joanah (Damron)

Mrs. Joanah Damron May, 82, widow of the late Reuben Thomas May of Louisa route 3, died Dec 26 at the home of a son, Critt May of route 1, Pikeville. She had been ill 10 days. The body was returned to this county and funeral was conducted Tuesday morning from the home of a son, Tom May of route 3(the Twin Branch section) with Rev. Sylvester Ball officiating. Interment was made in the May family cemetery. Deceased was born in Pike County, a daughter of Christian and Matilda Blair Damron. She had lived in this county most of her life and had been a member of the Baptist Church 65 years. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Lonzo Billiter, Cincinnati, 6 sons, Critt and Don May both of route 2, Pikeville, Dave May, Columbus, OH, Henry may, Williamsburg, OH, Charles May, Cincinnati, OH, and Tom May of route 3, Louisa. Her husband, died in 1937. Big Sandy News, Dec 31, 1943

MCCLURE, John H.

1866-1943

John H. McClure, 77, prominent and respected citizen of Gallup, died Monday night at his home in Huntington, where he had lived the past year. Mr. McClure had been in failing health for many years and had been critically ill the past 3 months. Funeral rites were conducted Thursday morning in the Central Methodist Church in Huntington with Rev. M. W. Castle officiating. Immediately following the Huntington funeral service the body was brought to this county and taken to Gallup for interment in the McClure family cemetery. Short rites were held at the grave at Gallup conducted by Rev. William Burgess. Mr. McClure was born at Gallup in 1866, a son of the late George C. and Jane Borders McClure, pioneer Lawrence county citizens. he operated a general store and was postmaster at Gallup for many years but retired a number of years ago because of ill health. Mr. McClure long had been a member of the Methodist church and for many years served as superintendent of the Gallup Sunday school. He moved to Huntington to reside early last winter. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Nettie Shivel McClure, 3 daughters, Mrs. W.G Wilks, Newton, IA, Mrs. Hugh L. Vaughan, Norfolk, VA and Miss Anita McClure, at home, 2 sons, John H. McClure, Jr., Ashland and George T. McClure at home; one brother, Tom S. McClure, Ashland, and one sister, Mrs. Julia Atkinson, Omaha, NB. Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

MCGOWAN, Nancy Jane (Welch)

Mrs. Nancy Jane McGowan, 43, wife of Charley E. McGowan of Portsmouth, OH, died Saturday. She was born in Wayne county, WV, a daughter of Peter S. and Vinie Lane Welch, and had lived at Louisa a number of years. The family had lived in Portsmouth the past 3 years, and in Wurtland before that. Besides the husband, she is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Hila Heberlin, Mrs. Betty Jane Hay and Miss Lottie McGowan, all of Portsmouth, 3 sons, James H. McGowan of Louisville, Albert H. and Charles E. McGowan both in the Army, by 4 sisters, Mrs. Belle Blankenship of Louisa, Mrs. Elizabeth Diamond of Chandler, OK, Mrs. Ida Meeks of Paintsville and Mrs. L. R. Dingus of Russell and 2 brothers, Peter L. Welch of Ashland and Drew Welch of Pittsburg. Big Sandy News, Dec 17,1 943

PARKS, Virginia Lee

1940-1943

Three year old Virginia Lee Parks, was killed almost instantly and her twin sister, Opal Marie, was injured in a tragic accident that took place Tuesday evening in the road in front of the home of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Parks at Richardson. The twins were run over by a truck which started rolling down a slight incline after being parked by the father when he came home from work. A wheel passed over Virginia Lee and she died almost instantly. Opal Marie was knocked down but the wheels missed her. She was treated at a Louisa hospital for an injured ear and bruises on the head and later discharged from the hospital. She will recover. Mr. Parks, who drives a truck for his brother-in-law, Hubert Pack, engaged in hauling lumber for the Republic Creosoting Co. had come home from work at about 8 p.m. and parked the truck at the roadside in front of the home. He put chock blocks under a wheel and then drained the water from the radiator and started the engine to pump all the water out of the motor. A moment later he noticed the truck moving and jumped back in the cab to tighten the breaks. Suddenly, he heard one of the children scream. He had not known that they had come out of the house until her heard the scream. The truck moved about 10 or 12 feet before he brought it to a stop. It was during this time that Virginia Lee was fatally injured. He jumped from the cab and carried the screaming child to the house, and came back and found Virginia Lee. A five year old brother also had come to the truck with the twin girls but he was not injured. Funeral for Virginia Lee was conducted Thursday afternoon at 1 p.m. from the home and interment will be made in the Childers cemetery near Richardson. Surviving besides the parents and twin sister are 3 brothers, Hubert Ray, Robert Jean and William Edward, all at home, and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Parks of route 2, Louisa and Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Childers of Richardson. Big Sandy News, Dec 17,1943

PORTER, John H.

John H. Porter, 75, of Mill Creek, died at the home of a son, Walter Porter, of Grassy, Nov 14, after an illness of several months. Funeral services were conducted at the Mill Creek school house Nov 15 by Rev. W. S. Ross and Rev. Jim Harvey, with burial in the Workman cemetery. He is survived by the following children, Walter, Steward, and Cecil Porter of Grassy, James W. Porter of Wayne, Mrs. Belle Moore of Radnor, Mrs. Virdie Hampton of Grassy; one sister, Mrs. Bertie Smith of Grassy, his widow by a late marriage, Mrs. Vicie Phillips Porter. Big Sandy News, Dec 3, 1943

PRICHARD, Laura (Compton)

1883-1943

Mrs. Laura Compton Prichard, 60, widow of the late Dr. J. Allen Prichard, of Buchanan, and one of the county's most beloved citizens, died early Friday morning, Dec 17 in the King's Daughter's Hospital in Ashland. She had been in failing health several months and was removed to the hospital a few weeks ago. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon in the Buchanan Chapel Methodist Church with the pastor, C. L. Neff, and Rev. C. B. Morris officiating. A large assemblage including many people from Catlettsburg, Ashland and other points attended the funeral. A quartet composed of Mrs. Charles Martin, Mrs. Ed Burns, Mrs. R. B. Hutchinson, and Miss Maxine Yost presented the song service. Interment was made in Buchanan Chapel Cemetery beside her husband, who died in 1932. Mrs. Prichard, a native of this county, was born Oct 3, 1883, a daughter of Jake R. and Martha Kinner Compton. She had been a member of the Methodist Church since early childhood and was a faithful and loyal church worker until her death. She and her late husband were the leading forces in establishing the Prichard Memorial Methodist Church at Buchanan. In addition to her church and community activities, Mrs. Prichard had served as postmaster at Buchanan for the past 28 years. She is survived by 2 sons, Dr. Marvin C. Prichard, resident physician at Billings Hospital at the University of Chicago and Capt. Hubert J. Prichard of the U. S. Army Medical Corps, stationed in Chicago. The 2 brothers, formerly operated the Prichard Clinic in Catlettsburg. Also surviving are 3 brothers, Jake Compton of Buchanan, Lafe B. Compton of Louisa and Joe Compton of Yatesville. Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

REECE, Mrs. William

Mrs. William Reece, 74, mother of Mrs. Creed Heston, of Louisa, died Nov 11 at her home at Silver Grove, KY near Covington. Mrs. Heston had been with her mother practically all of the time from July until her death. Mrs. Reece had visited here a number of times and had many friends here. She had been a member of the Christian Church for 30 years. Her husband died 10 years ago. Big Sandy news, Dec 3, 1943

SPARKS, Nelse

Nelse Sparks, aged about 65, a highly respected citizen of the Wilbur section, died at his home Friday morning after an illness of several months. Big Sandy News, Dec 17,1943

SPARKS, Tennie (Thompson)

1876-1943

Mrs. Tennie Thompson Sparks, 67, widow of the late M. E. Sparks of Webbville died Monday afternoon at the home of a daughter, Mrs. L. B. Porter in Ashland. She had been ill 5 months. Funeral rites were conducted Thursday afternoon in Ashland with Rev. James Hamilton officiating, and interment was made in the Dixon Cemetery, Ashland. Mrs. Sparks was born Jul 5, 1876, a daughter of Martin V.. and Elizabeth Webb Thompson, pioneer citizens of Webbville section. She was a member of the Undenominational Christian church. Her husband, the late M. E. Sparks, well known Lawrence County teacher and one time State Representative of the Lawrence-Elliott district died a few years ago. Surviving are 2 sons, Kenneth and Arthur Sparks of Russell; 4 daughters, Mrs. Lewis Fraley, Morehead, Mrs. Clara Fraley and Mrs. Herbert Webb, both of Columbus, OH, and Mrs. Marvin Boggs of Webbville; 3 brothers, Dr. C. L. Thompson, Blaine and Levi and John M. Thompson, both of Webbville, and one sister, Mrs. C. F. Wurts of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

SPRADLIN, Kelley

Kelley Spradlin, 41, was killed by N & W passenger train No. 24 at Chattaroy, WV last Friday morning about 6 a.m. Spradlin, enroute home from Williamson where he worked, apparently did not see the approaching passenger train and drove his car in front of it shortly after a freight had passed. The tragedy occurred in front of the Chattaroy depot. Mr. Spradlin is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mary Mounts Spradlin, formerly of Fort Gay and 2 brothers, John of Kings Mountain, WV and Haskell of Williamson and his mother. Big Sandy News, Dec 3, 1943

TACKETT, Ellen

Ellen Tackett, 18 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paris Tackett of the Wilbur section, died last Friday following an illness of measles complicated by pneumonia. Besides the parents, she is survived by 3 sisters and 2 brothers, and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. George Tackett  of Wilbur and Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Caldwell of Lowmansville, Big Sandy News, Dec 24, 1943

THOMPSON, Ken

Ken Thompson, 88, retired carpenter and native of the Busseyville section, died Wednesday noon at the home of a sister, Mrs. A. T. Burton in Louisa. He had been ill a week. Funeral will be conducted Friday afternoon at 2 in the Burton home on Lady Washington street with Rev. George L. Thompson and Rev. L. M. Rogers officiating. Mr. Thompson was born at Busseyville, a son of the late Andy and Mary Spencer Thompson, pioneer citizens. He had made his home in Louisa the past 11 year. He had been a member of the Methodist Church 50 years. Surviving are a daughter Mrs. Dova Bensinger, Takoma Park, MD, 3 sisters, Mrs. Jerry Williams, Bolt, WV, Mrs. A. T. Burton, Louisa, and Mrs. J. C. Plummer, Ashland; 3 sons, J. C. Thompson, Columbus, OH, L. F. Thompson, Falls Church, VA and Lloyd Thompson, Portsmouth, OH and a brother, John B. Thompson, Huntington. Big Sandy News, Dec 31, 1943

WEDDINGTON, Lena (Stump)

Mrs. Lena Weddington, 34, of Kenova, died in a Huntington hospital Dec 2. Mrs. Weddington was cashier at the Catlettsburg-Kenova-Ceredo, Water company office in Kenova. She is survived by the husband, Winfred Weddington, 1 son, Clyde Weddington, the parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Stump of Kenova; 2 sisters, Mrs. Earnest Loar and Miss Geneva Stump of Kenova; 3 brothers, Sgt. Everett Stump of the U. S. Air Corps in England, George Stump of Akron, OH and Cecil Stump of Huntington. Funeral services were conducted at the Kenova Methodist Church last Sunday with burial in a cemetery at Warfield, KY. Big Sandy News, Dec 17, 1943

WELLMAN, Floyd

Floyd Wellman, 63, retired farmer, died last Friday morning at 4:50 at the home of his sister, Mrs. Carl Heston in Louisa, following an illness of 7 weeks. A son of Mrs. Lydia Robertson Wellman, and the late James Harvey Wellman, Mr. Wellman was born at Fort Gay, route 1. He had spent the last 39 years of his life in Louisa. Surviving are his mother, 4 sisters, Mrs. Harry May of Louisa, Mrs. Milt Vinson, Louisa, Mrs. Mary Daniels of Huntington and Mrs. Carl Heston, and 4 brothers, Elisha Wellman of Fort Gay, route 1, Warnie Wellman of Catlettsburg, KY, Harvey Wellman of Louisa and Elvia Wellman of Huntington. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the home of Mrs. Heston, with the Rev. J. C. Hager and the Rev. Elba Martin, officiating. Burial was in the Pine Hill Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Dec 10, 1943

WILKINSON, A. G.

Dr. A. G. Wilkinson, 77 years old, president of the Wayne county bank and Wayne county health officer, died of heart disease at his home at Wayne, WV, Nov 28. Dr. Wilkinson had been in declining health for about a year. He was a patient in a Huntington hospital for several weeks, but returned to his home recently and on Saturday was able to take a brief walk o the street in front of his home. He suffered an attack at about 1:30 Sunday morning and died an hour later. Big Sandy News, Dec 10,1 943

WILLIAMS, Buell

Buell Williams, 40, native of Johnson county and brother to Mrs. Beulah Salyers of Adams, died Christmas day in a Portsmouth, OH hospital. He was employed at the Wheeling Steel Company plant in Portsmouth. Big Sandy News, Dec 31, 1943