JANUARY 1944


 

ADAMS, America (Young)

1857-1944

Mrs. America Young Adams, 84, widow of the late Felix Adams, died at her home Webbville route 1, Friday. Deceased was a daughter of the late John W. and Haley Kelley Young, pioneer citizens. She had been a member of the Freewill Baptist Church 40 years and was on of the county's beloved citizens. Funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon at the home and interment was made in the Adams family cemetery. A large assemblage attended the rites. She is survived by a daughter, Miss Virgie Adams, at home, 4 sons, Rube Adams of route 1, Webbville, Drew B. Adams of Plain City, OH, Charles Adams of Woodstock, OH, and Cecil Adams of Midland, PA; 4 brothers, Frank Young in the Army, Richard Young of Webbville, route 1, Ronnie Young of Bainbridge, OH. Deceased was an aunt of J. W. and C. C. Yong of Louisa. Her husband, died 4 years ago. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

ALEXION, Nick

 Nick Alexion, a former resident of Louisa, died from a cerebral hemorrhage last Monday evening in a Williamson hospital. Nick formerly owned and operated The Louisa Confectionary and while here married Miss Mona Wilson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Wilson. They were divorced in 1931--twenty years afterwards. Nick was born in Athens, Greece, but came to this country while quite young. He was a friendly, quiet man and well liked by all who knew him. He has many friends in our city. He is survived by a son, Thomas, of Detroit, and two daughters, Mrs. Helen Moore and Miss Billy Jean Alexion, also of Detroit. Three grandchildren, Lindsey Owen Alexion, Wilson K. Alexion, and David Moore and a brother, Alex Alexion, also survive him. Funeral services were conducted from the Lazear funeral Home in Ashland by a Greek priest from Cincinnati and burial was in an Ashland Cemetery. Big Sandy news, Jan 14, 1944

 

ALLEY, Molly (Ward)

Mrs. Molly Alley, 76, widow of the late Joseph Alley, died Thursday evening at her home at Adams. She had been in failing health 8 years. Funeral was conducted Saturday morning at the home with Rev. S. B. Ball of Louisa officiating and interment was made in the Ball family cemetery near Adams. Deceased was born at Ironton, OH, but had lived in this county most of her life. She is survived by 4 daughters, Mrs. Robert Sowards, Mrs. James Cordle, Mrs. J. T. Pack, and Mrs. Everett Wears, all of Columbus, OH, 3 sons, John Alley, Fallansbee, WV and Charles and Sim Alley, both of Adams, and one brother, Tilden Ward of Walla Walla, WA. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

ANDERSON, Melvin

Isaac Newton Hood, of Ashland, driver of a truck for the Early & Daniel feed company of Ashland was held under bond of $5,000 on a manslaughter charge here as the result of an automobile truck collision at the mouth of Lick Creek Monday afternoon in which a Floyd county man was fatally hurt and another seriously injured. Melvin Anderson, 55, McDowell, died of a crushed chest and other injuries about half an hour after being admitted to the Riverview Hospital here. Wayne Stumbo, 38, also of near McDowell, driver of the car, suffered injuries to his chest and was treated at the local hospital and later removed to St. Mary's Hospital in Huntington. His condition was described as dangerous. Anderson and Stumbo in 1 1941 Chevrolet coupe were coming down the Mayo Trail enroute to Gallipolis, OH to lease coal land. The Early & Daniel truck was going up the Trial, enroute to deliver a load of feed to the Kitchen Poultry Farm at Blaine. The car and truck collided on the stiff curve at the mouth of Lick Creek on the southern outskirts of Louisa. Sheriff Arch Thompson, after investigating the wreck, held Hood on a manslaughter charge. He posted bond the same night in the amount of $5,000 to answer at an examining trial here Monday. Funeral for Anderson was conducted at his home at McDowell today (Thursday). He is survived by his wife and five sons and five daughters. A sixth son, Marion Anderson, was killed in the crash of an Army Air Force plane near Barksdale Field, LA a few months ago. Stumbo, son of E. H. Stumbo of Minnie, operates a truck mine near McDowell. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

ARRINGTON, Laura A.

1859-1944

Laura A. Arrington, daughter of Jacob Arrington and Susan Arrington, was born Jul 27, 1859, departed this life Jan 13, 1944, at the age of 84 yeas, 6 months, and 14 days. She was united in marriage to Dr. Allen T. Roberts at the age of 24. To this union were born 2 sons. The elder son, Celsus Roberts, preceded her in death 12 years ago. The younger son, Benson Roberts, survives. She leaves to mourn her loss, her son, 3 grandsons and one granddaughter. The two older ones, Allen T. Roberts and John Benton Roberts are serving in the armed forces overseas. The two younger one, Jackie Roberts and Betty Roberts at home. She has been a member of the Methodist Church of Blaine for 45 years. her husband preceded her in death 40 years ago. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

ARTRIP, William D.

William D. Artrip, 89, retired farmer of Glenhayes, WV, died Saturday in a Louisa hospital where he had been a patient 9 days. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon in the Community church at Saltpetre, WV and interment was made in the Wellman Cemetery near Saltpetre. Deceased was born near Fort Gay, a son of the late Rev. Alexander and Narazetta Fraley Artrip. He had been a member of the Christian church for 70 years. Surviving are 3 daughters, Mrs. Arnold Perry, route 1, Fort Gay, Mrs. Frank James, Glenhayes and Mrs. Alexander Hitchcock, Orlando, FL; 3 sons, Ed and Ora J. Artrip both of Glenhayes and Martin B. Artrip of Louisa; 2 sisters, Mrs. Anna Plymale, Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Lucinda Adkins, Huntington, WV and a brother, I. D. Artrip of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

BATES, Nora (Holbrook)

Mrs. Nora Bates, wife of George Bates, died at her home at Powell, OH, Jan 14, age 56 years. She was married to George Bates 40 years ago. To this union were born 9 children, Mrs. Lewis Bentley, Thacker, WV, Roscoe Bates in U. S. Army overseas, Mrs. George Caldwell of Cherokee, KY, Mrs. Edgar Houck of Amlin, OH, Mrs. Clarence Kitchen of Linworth, OH, Estill, David, Junior and Marie at home. She also leaves to mourn her loss a husband and mother, Mrs. Nancy Holbrook, 4 brothers, Charlie Holbrook, Beaver, OH, Morton Holbrook of Hilliard, OH, John Holbrook of Powell, OH and Luther Holbrook of Webbville, route 1; 3 sisters living, Mrs. Lyda Sparks of Columbus, OH, Mrs. Lottie Hicks of Hilliards, OH, and Mrs. Lula Young of Columbus, OH. Mrs. Bates had lived all her life on Irish Creek until about 3 years ago, when they moved to Powell, OH. The body was returned to Irish Creek for burial. She was laid to rest in Rube Adams Cemetery with Brother Custer Bishop officiating. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

BLANKENSHIP, Sarah (Holley)

Mrs. Sarah Holley Blankenship, 76, native of this county and widow of the late Robert Mose Blankenship, died Tuesday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Henry Hoff in Ashland. Funeral was conducted Thursday at the home of a son, Charles Blankenship in Catlettsburg and interment was made in the Williams cemetery, Ashland. Deceased was born in this county, a daughter of Frank and Cecelia Carter Holley. She had resided in Catlettsburg for 3 years. Surviving are 2 sons, Charles of Catlettsburg, Dan of Prichard, WV, 2 daughters, Mrs. Hoff of Ashland, and Mrs. J. C. Roberts of Huntington, WV, one brother, Henry Holley of Kenova, WV, a sister, Mrs. Permelia Marcum of Dunbar, WV, 16 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

  

BOOTH, William McKinley

 

"Bill" Booth, 46, employed as a gasoline loader at the Virginia Gasoline Company's plant at Warfield, shot himself fatally Monday afternoon. Booth was found shortly after 3 p.m. in the supply room of the plant with a bullet hole ranging from under his jaw upward through the head. A pistol was at this side. No one was in the supply room at the time of the tragedy. Booth a highly respected citizen of Warfield, recently had been elected master of the Masonic lodge there, and was a nephew of Henry Booth, superintendent of the Warfield's gas pumping plant at Walbridge, who recently was elected master of the Louisa Masonic lodge. Funeral rites are incomplete, awaiting the arrival of a son, Pvt. Bennie Booth who is serving in the Marine Corps in California. He is survived by 3 other sons, Woodrow Booth, Philadelphia, PA, and Robert Lynn and James Booth, at home, 3 daughters, Mrs. Jack Sutherland, Warfield and Misses Billy Joyce and Joann, both at home; by his wife, Mrs. Marie Booth, by one sisters, Mrs. Laura Davenport, Warfield and one brother, Lunsford Booth, Warfield. Big Sandy News, Jan 7, 1944

 

BRAINARD, Mayme

Miss Mayme Brainard, 79, bookkeeper for 15 years for the Kitchen Lumber Company and prior to that bookkeeper for the Van Sant & Kitchen Lumber Company, died at her home in Ashland, Thursday of last week. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

BROWN, Robert H.

Three Wayne county youths were killed and a fourth died later in a Huntington hospital as the result of an automobile-train crash right at Kellog crossing in West Huntington. Killed were Orville Hall, 22, of Patrick's Creek near Wayne, Virgil Ray Gilkerson,16 and his brother, Morris Gilkerson, 17m both of Prichard. The fourth victim was Robert H. Brown, 16, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse L. Brown of Neal, who died later in Memorial Hospital. The youths was returning home from a basketball game in Catlettsburg and their car was hit by a B & O Train. Others injured in the wreck are : Loren B. Hatten, 16, of Neal, Frank Smith and Franklin McComas of Centerville. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

CAINES, William Henry

William Henry Caines, 87, retired Chesapeake & Ohio Railway carpenter foreman, died Friday at midnight at his home on Big Sandy River, 3 miles north of Louisa. He had been ill for 2 weeks with pneumonia. Mr. Caines was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Hiram Caines, natives of Virginia and was employed by the C & O for 50 years, the majority of which period he was foreman over a carpenter force. He retired 18 years ago. Mr. Caines was married 65 years ago to Miss Mary Saulsberry, who survived him along with 2 daughters, Mrs. J. P. McHale of Dallas, TX and Mrs. Minnie Caines Kelly of Ashland, 3 sons, Robert and H. C. Caines of Ashland, and W. W. Caines of Clifton Force, VA and 2 brothers George of East Lynn, WV and Andy Caines of Kenova, WV. Rev. Herbert French of Catlettsburg and Rev. J. C. Hager of Louisa officiated at the funeral, which was conducted from the home Monday. A group composed of J. W. Copley, Milt McGuire, Mrs. W. G. Crutchfield, Alberta Copley and Blanche Jones, rendered 3 beautiful hymns. Mr. Caines was laid to rest in the beautiful little cemetery near his home. The beautiful floral offerings and the ice and snow covered trees added to the solemnity of the occasion. Mr. Caines was a man who was loved and admired by all who knew hi. To know him was to love him, He will be greatly missed by all of his friends and loved ones in this community, as well as in the Big Sandy Valley. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

CHILDERS, William

1865-1944

William Childers, 78, retired lockmaster, and respected citizen of Chapman, died Monday noon in a Louisa hospital where he had been a patient six days. Mr. Childers became ill of flu four weeks ago, and complications developed. Funeral rites were conducted Wednesday afternoon in the Chapman Methodist Church and interment was made in the Gallup Cemetery. Mr. Childers was born at Whitehouse in 1865, a son of Marion and Isabelle VanHoose Childers, pioneer citizens. He had lived at Chapman the past 54 years and served as lockmaster there for 30 years, retiring 10 years ago. He had been a member of the Methodist Church for 23 years. He also was a member of the I.O.O.F. Lodge, Mr. Childers was one of the county's best respected citizens. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Laura McClure Childers; two brothers, Frank and W. T.  Childers, both of Gallup and a sister, Mrs. Jennie Childers of Richardson. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

CLARK, Mary (Tate)

1873-1944

Mrs. Mary Clark, 70, widow of the late Richard Clark, died Monday night at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Katherine Crank, 1809 Prospect Avenue, Ashland, after an illness of four months. Mrs. Clark was born Apr 15, 1873, in Lawrence County, a daughter of Joel and Mary Friley Tate. She spent most of her life in Catlettsburg and moved to Ashland 18 years ago. She was a member of the Pentecostal Church at  Catlettsburg. Surviving are a son, Mason Clark, Catlettsburg, 5 daughters, Mary Katherine Clark, Mrs. Russell Kelley, and Mrs. Ed Morrison, Ashland, Mrs. Harry Leibee, Catlettsburg and Albert Adkins, Montgomery, WV, one sister, Mrs. John Akers, Huntington, 27 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

CLEVENGER, Marion

Marion Clevenger, retired C & O conductor of Ashland, died Thursday of last week in an Ashland hospital. He was born in Elliott county, a son of Mr. and Mrs. John Nelson Clevenger. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

COOKSEY, Lilly

Dennis, KY, Jan 26--The death angel came into our community last Thursday morning and removed from our midst one of our most loved women, Mrs. Lillie Cooksey. Mrs. Cooksey had been in failing health for a good many years, but as summer faded into autumn and autumn passed into winter it became quite apparent that Aunt Lil's stay here was short. One of her chief characteristics was administering to the sick. there is scarcely a home in these communities but that Aunt Lil has been on hand to aid in any way her strength or natural medical knowledge would permit. The community has lost a helpful friend and her children a devoted mother. However, we can have the pleasure of knowing that she has passed on to a place of rest where a just reward will be given her for her labors here. Her suffering was endured with much patience and at one time we heard her say that she was never lonely, for Jesus seemed always near. What a precious thought, to know that when our friends and loved ones come to the crossing--we know we can't accompany them but there is one who can pilot them through the chilly waters of death and land them safely on the shore of Paradise. We would say to her unsaved children, make sure that you accept the Christ that your mother loved and be thou ready when the summons comes. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

CRUTCHER, Charles

The body of Charles M. Crutcher, 78, who died Friday night at this home in Huntington of pneumonia, was brought to Louisa Sunday, and funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon in the Louisa Baptist Church with pastor, Rev. J. C. Hager, officiating. Interment was made in Pinehill Cemetery here. Mr. Crutcher was born in Louisa in 1865, a son of Robert and Mintie Crutcher. He had resided in Huntington, the past 25 years where he was a plumbing contractor. Surviving are 2 brothers, J. B. Crutcher of Louisa, and Frank Crutcher of Holden, WV, his wife, Mrs. Gene Reynolds Crutcher, a native of Louisa, and a son and daughter, James and Lucy, both of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

CUNNINGHAM, Elizabeth

Mrs. Elizabeth Cunningham, 80, one of Lawrence County oldest residents, died Dec 26, at the home of a niece, Mrs. Alice Riggs of Webbville. Surviving is one son of Chillicothe, OH. Funeral services were held Dec 28 at the Pilgrim Holiness Church at Willard. Rev. Kenneth Flemming officiated. Burial was held at the Kitchen cemetery near Willard. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

CYRUS, Evelyn

Mrs. Evelyn Cyrus, 84, died at Genoa, WV, after a short illness. Mrs. Cyrus had been a member of the Oak Grove Methodist Church for 35 years. Funeral services were conducted at the Rush Branch Church by Revs. H. B. and Charley Thompson with burial in the Cyrus Cemetery on Mill Creek. She is survived by 3 children, James Cyrus of Fort Gay, Albert Cyrus of Genoa and Mrs. Mary Young of Genoa. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

DAMRON, Nola Mae (Childers)

Mrs. Nola Mae Childers Damron, 33, wife of Jay Damron and a native of this county, died Sunday at the Damron home in Catlettsburg after an illness of two weeks. Deceased, a daughter of Winfield and Martha Castle Childers, was born in this county. Besides the husband, she is survived by two sons, 3 daughters, and one sister, Mrs. David Pack of Catlettsburg. Burial was made in the Catlettsburg cemetery. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

DEAN, Lee Roy

Fort Gay, WV. Jan 18--Lee Roy dean, 23, son of Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Dean of Prichard, route 2 on Gragston Creek, died Monday in a Huntington hospital of injuries received in an explosion of natural gas near his home last Friday. Funeral was conducted at the Prichard Church by Rev. Henry Mullens and interment was made near Prichard. An aunt, Mrs. Ida Perdue, 46, who also was injured in the explosion, is being treated for facial burns in a Huntington hospital. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

DIXON, John Ray

The body of John Ray Dixon, 7 day old son of Mr. and Mrs. Herman Dixon of Columbus, was brought back Wednesday and taken to Blaine for burial. The child died Tuesday. The Dixons are natives of the Hood section near Blaine. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

FARLEY, Frances (Varney)

Mrs. Frances Farley, 63 died at the home of a daughter in Columbus, OH, Jan 12. She had been in failing health for 3 years and was the daughter of Thomas and Polly Varney, who preceded her in death several years ago. Mrs. Farley was a member of the United Baptist Church and is survived by the following 8 children, Oscar Farley of Columbus, OH, Chester Farley of Pittsburg, PA, Albert Farley of the U. S. Army overseas, Howard Farley of the U. S. Navy, Great Lakes, IL, Mrs. Myrtle Chaffin and Mrs. Lee Janes of Columbus, OH, Mrs. Ethel Weddington of Williamson, and Mrs. Edna Copley of Colorado; one stepdaughter, Mrs. Mary McCloud of Sardina, OH, one sister, Mrs. Laura Salmons of Crum, 3 brothers, W. J. and J.B. Varney of Crum and Albert Varney of Williamson. Funeral services were conducted at the home in Crum by Rev. Alvis Varney and Rev. Mitchell Marcum, with burial in the family cemetery near Crum. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

FELTNER, J. M.

M. Feltner, 66, field agent for 4-H clubs in Eastern Kentucky and prominent churchman and civic leader, died suddenly at his home near London Jan 13. Mr. Feltner, perhaps the most widely known man in Eastern Kentucky had endeared himself to thousands of youths in the 56 counties of Eastern Kentucky where he had worked the past 26 years to promote 4-H clubs. He had visited Lawrence county frequently and was known by hundreds of people in the county. In 1936 he was chosen one of the three most outstanding agricultural workers in the Central States by the Fraternity of Extension Workers of the United States. He frequently visited civic clubs and only a few weeks ago appeared as a speaker at a meeting of the Louisa Rotary club. He was also prominent in Sunday school and church work in London, having stated to friends on his last visit here that he had not missed a Sunday school for the past 12 years. His many friends in Lawrence County will be saddened to hear of his death. Big Sandy  News, Jan 28, 1944

 

FERGUSON, Louisa R.

Blaine, KY, Jan 19--Louisa R. Ferguson, age 77 years, 2 months and 27 days, died Jan 10, 1944. She had been a member of the Christian Church many years. She leaves 3 sons, Bert in Texas, Homer and Fred at home and one daughter, May Bradley of Huntington, WV and many relatives and friends. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

FITCH, James H.

James H. Fitch, 67, farmer of the Georges Creek section, died Friday midnight at his home on the Mayo Trail 16 miles south of Louisa. He had been ill two months of complications. Funeral rites were conducted Monday morning at the home of a son-in-law, Irvin Bevins on Georges Creek, and interment was made in the Bevins family cemetery. Surviving are two daughters, Dimple Lee and Edith Fitch, at home; 6 sons, Walter and Hobart Fitch, both of Irvington, KY, Kay Fitch, serving in the Army in North Africa, James H. Fitch, Jr., serving in the Army in North Africa, James H. Fitch, Jr. serving in the army at a camp in North Carolina, Willie Fitch, serving in the Army at a camp in Oklahoma, and John Fitch, of Belfry, KY and a half-brother, Charles Ross of Wilbur. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

FUGITT, Walter Earl

The body of Walter Earl Fugitt, 10 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Milt V. Fugitt of LaCorne, OH, who was killed by a passenger train near his home New Year's day, was returned to this county and taken to Chapman for burial. Funeral was conducted Tuesday morning in the Chapman Methodist church with Rev. C. H. Peters of Chapman, officiating. Burial was made in the Peck cemetery there. The Fugitt family moved from Louisa to Ohio about 2 years ago. The tragedy occurred while the youngster was out playing rabbit hunting with 2 pups. A passenger train struck him as he was crossing a railroad and he was killed instantly. The father, a veteran of World War I, volunteered shortly after he start of the present ward and served for a time at a camp in Ohio. Before moving to Ohio, he was employed on the Big Sandy division of the C & O Railway in the water supply department. In addition to his parents, the youth is survived by a brother, Bill Don, and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Fugitt and Mr. and Mrs. Don Damron, all of Chapman. Big Sandy News, Jan 7, 1944

 

GILKERSON, Virgil Ray

GILKERSON, Morris

Three Wayne county youths were killed and a fourth died later in a Huntington hospital as the result of an automobile-train crash right at Kellog crossing in West Huntington. Killed were Orville Hall, 22, of Patrick's Creek near Wayne, Virgil Ray Gilkerson,16 and his brother, Morris Gilkerson, 17m both of Prichard. The fourth victim was Robert H. Brown, 16, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse L. Brown of Neal, who died later in Memorial Hospital. The youths was returning home from a basketball game in Catlettsburg and their car was hit by a B & O Train. Others injured in the wreck are : Loren B. Hatten, 16, of Neal, Frank Smith and Franklin McComas of Centerville. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

HALL, Orville

Three Wayne county youths were killed and a fourth died later in a Huntington hospital as the result of an automobile-train crash right at Kellog crossing in West Huntington. Killed were Orville Hall, 22, of Patrick's Creek near Wayne, Virgil Ray Gilkerson,16 and his brother, Morris Gilkerson, 17, both of Prichard. The fourth victim was Robert H. Brown, 16, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse L. Brown of Neal, who died later in Memorial Hospital. The youths was returning home from a basketball game in Catlettsburg and their car was hit by a B & O Train. Others injured in the wreck are : Loren B. Hatten, 16, of Neal, Frank Smith and Franklin McComas of Centerville. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

 

HARDWICK, Dan B.

Dan B. Hardwick, 70, prominent attorney of Wayne and Huntington and a native of the Mill Creek section near Fort Gay, died Monday night in a Huntington hospital. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon in the Vinson Memorial Christian Church in Huntington and the body was returned to Wayne county for interment in the Wayne cemetery. Members of Mr. Hardwick' s Sunday school class served as pall bearers. A son of the late John and Isabelle Vinson Hardwick, pioneer Wayne county citizens, Mr. Hardwick was born and reared on Mill Creek, 6 miles from Fort Gay. After attending local schools, he enrolled in Taylor McClure's Academy at Wayne, a private school. Later he was graduated from the West Virginia University college of law and was admitted to the bar approximately 40 years ago.. Mr. Hardwick was an assistant prosecuting attorney in Huntington for 12 years and prior to that time had been prosecutor in Wayne county. His death was caused by a heart ailment. He had been in failing health for about a year and suffered a heart attack at his home late Saturday night. He began practice at Wayne and early in his career was elected to the House of Delegates. He later served 3 terms as prosecutor in Wayne. He had resided in Westmoreland and Huntington for the past 20 years and at the time of his death was closing his third 4 year term as an assistant prosecutor in Cabell County. Mr. Hardwick was a member of the Vinson Memorial Christian church. Surviving are his widow, the former, Miss Zena Ketchum of Wayne county, to whom he was married about 30 years ago, 2 daughters, Mrs. Beatrice Hardwick Quarles of Joplin, MO, where her husband, Corporal J. L. Quarles, Jr., USA, is stationed and Mrs. Julian Houchin of Huntington, and 2 brothers, William T. Hardwick of Genoa, WV and Dr. R. Hardwick of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Jan 7, 1944

 

HINKLE, R. D.

1886-1944

D. Hinkle, Jr., 57, well known merchant and gas producer of Richardson, died at his home Monday afternoon. He had been in failing health for several months and became seriously ill December 8. An oxygen tent was rushed to his bedside from Louisville last week when his condition became critical. Deceased was born at Peach Orchard in 1886, a son of Randolph D. Hinkle and Charlotte Harris Hinkle. He was reared at Richardson and had been in the merchandising business there since the age of 16 when he began working in his father's store. In late years he became interested in the gas business and helped develop a large acreage near the Lawrence-Martin County line at Milo.  He had been a member of the Methodist Church for 23 yeas and was a member of the Richardson Masonic Lodge No. 699. Funeral rites were conducted Thursday afternoon in the Methodist Church at Richardson with Rev. J. C. Hager of Louisa officiating. the Masonic lodge of Richardson conducted its ritual. Mr. Hinkle is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ethel Ward Hinkle, 3 daughters, Mrs. O. G. Sparks and Mrs. George L. Childers, both of Louisville and Mrs. Ernest Johnson of Pikeville; a son, Pvt. Lafe S. Hinkle, stationed at Camp Davis, NC; 3 brothers, County Attorney J. W. Hinkle, of Louisa and Richardson, Oscar F. Hinkle of Richardson and John S. Hinkle of Louisa and 3 sisters, Mrs. C. R. Boller and Mrs. O. C. Burgess both of Richardson and Mrs. Nola H. Castle of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

HOLBROOK, Jesse H.

1858-1944

Rev. Jesse H. Holbrook, 85, minister of the Freewill Baptist Church and one of Lawrence County's most respected citizens, died at his home in Louisa last Friday shortly after noon. He became ill of flu the day before Christmas and this was complicated by the subsequent development of pneumonia. A son of the late John K. and Elizabeth Salyers Holbrook, Rev. Holbrook was born at Martha November 25, 1858, and had resided and worked in the county practically all his life. He lived for a time in North Dakota, but moved back to this county after 13 years. He was a plasterer and carpenter by trade and was widely known. He had lived in Louisa the past 20 years. Rev. Holbrook became a member of the Freewill Baptist Church 52 years ago and for the past 26 years had been a minister. He had preached in many sections of Lawrence and Wayne Counties and was loved by all who knew him.

 

His first wife, Margaret Woods Holbrook, died in 1918. He was married in 1921 to Mrs. Frances Workman Graves, who survives. Also surviving are three daughters, Mrs. W. M. Boggs, Crystal, KY, Mrs. Samuel Wellman, Speed, WV, Mrs. Edgar Bartram, of Fort Gay, WV, one son, John M. Holbrook, Burlington, KY and a sister Mrs. Ely Moore, of Cordell. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon in the Louisa Freewill Baptist Church with the pastor, Rev. Wm. W. Moore, Rev. W. S. Boggs, Rev. Herbert French of Catlettsburg, and Rev. Waldron of Blaine, officiating. a large assemblage attended the rites. Interment was made in the See Cemetery of the Point three miles from Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

MCCLURE, Edgar E.

1878-1944

Edgar E. McClure, 65, of Huntington, native of this county, died Wednesday in a Huntington hospital. Mr. McClure was born at Chapman, this county in 1878, and until 1922 was in the coal business. More recently he has been identified with the real estate business in Huntington. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Sallie McClure, 3 daughters, Louella, Juanita and Marchita McClure, all at home, and 3 sons, Private Paul H. McClure U. S. Army Air Corps, Richmond, VA, Private First Class Earl N. McClure, U. S. Army Air Force, Newport, Ark., and Private Edgar M. McClure, U. S. Army medical attachment, stationed somewhere in England. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

MCCOY, Johnson

Johnson McCoy, 88 years old, of near Williamson, died Jan 10, of a paralytic stroke. He is survived by the widow, 6 daughters, 4 sons, and a sister, Miss Polly McCoy of Glenhayes. Burial was in Turkey Creek cemetery, near Williamson. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

MCNEAL, Ivory (Akins)

Mrs. Ivory Adkins McNeal, 25, native of Elliott County, and her 3 children, were burned to death early Tuesday morning when flames destroyed their home in Portsmouth, OH. Her husband, Leonard McNeal, discovered the house afire a few minutes after he awakened and was preparing to go to work in the plant of the Wheeling Steel Corp. His wife and 3 children were trapped in an upstairs bedroom. He suffered serious burns in trying to rescue them and is in a Portsmouth hospital where his condition was reported improved Thursday. Mrs. McNeal was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Adkins, native of Elliott county. She and her 3 children, Myrtle, Dorothy and Larry were buried in the same casket Thursday at Portsmouth. Big Sandy news, Jan 28, 1944

 

MURRAY, Orville

1902-1943

LOWMANSVILLE MAN DIES OF GAS POISONING IN TRAGEDY AT HAZARD

In a holiday tragedy occurring at Hazard, Orville Murray, 40, employee of the East Kentucky Beverage Company and a native of Lowmansville, lost his life and seven other critically ill when they were poisoned by fumes escaping from a hot water tank in the basement. They were discovered on the Sunday night following Christmas by a friend who, seeing their car in the driveway and getting no response from inside the house, broke down the doorway. Mr. Murray died on Monday, December 27. His wife, and mother, Mrs. Laura Murray, remain in a critical condition at a Hazard Hospital. It is reported that their four children and a niece of Mr. Murray's who were all unconscious when found are now out of danger. The dead man was a native of Lowmansville. The funeral was conducted December 30 at his old home place there and an impressive burial by the Paintsville Masonic Lodge followed at the family cemetery. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

PECK, Deanna Jeannette

Deanna Jeannette Peck, 3 months old daughter of Clyde and Lona Presley Peck of route 1, Fort Gay, died Jan 17 in a Louisa hospital after one day's illness of pneumonia. the father is serving in the U. S. Army in Sicily. Surviving besides the parents are 3 grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Presley of route 1, Fort Gay and Walter Peck of Davis, WV. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

PINSON, John B.

John B. Pinson, Sr., 79, retired merchant and timberman of Mingo and Pike counties, died Jan 13 at Kermit, WV. "Uncle John" as he was widely known in the Tug River section, was born near Nolan in 1865. He lived for many years on Rockhouse fork of the Big Creek before moving to Nolan. He was the first man in the early coal days to lease the coal lands of the Pond Creek area. His mother, "Aunt Nan" Pinson, is still living and resides at Inez. She will be 100 years old Jun 7. Also surviving are 5 brothers, Ben of Kenova, Boone of Warfield, Bob of Kermit, Mack of Inez and Jim of Varney. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

PRESTON, Jack

1918-1942

Mrs. Gladys Stepp Preston of Louisa has been notified by Adjutant General Ulio of the War Department that her husband, Pvt. Clifford E. (Jack) Preston, who was officially, reported missing in action in the North African invasion Nov 8, 1942, now is officially regarded as killed.

 

Pvt. Preston, member of an infantry unit that landed in North Africa Nov 8, 1942, was the son of Mrs. Arthur Preston and the late Mr. Preston of Richardson. Maj. Gen. Ulio's letter stated he was aboard a vessel which was sunk during the landing of the invasion army on the northern coast of Africa.  All efforts to find his body have failed, the officer wrote. Mrs. Preston and her son, who was born two days after his father was killed in the Nov. 8 landing, live in Louisa.

 

Major General Ulio's letter said in part:

"It is my distressing duty to inform you that all possible efforts have failed to locate your husband, Pvt. Clifford E. Preston, Infantry, who was officially reported missing in action on Nov 1, 1942. He was aboard a vessel which was sunk in the action incident to the landing of our forces on the northern coast of Africa.

"I very much regret that the conditions of warfare on many fronts and over isolated areas and vast expanses of water, as well as the disinclination of some of our enemies to report deaths in occupied territories have all served to deny some of us of accurate knowledge of the actual dates and circumstances of the deaths of our loved ones. We can nevertheless find sustaining comfort in the knowledge that this uncertainty regarding actual circumstances and time can in no way alter the significance of their sacrifice; and to them as those others the circumstance of whose deaths have been fully recorded, must be ascribed the great honor of having given their lives for their county in her greatest crisis.." Mrs. Preston and her son, who was born 2 days after his father was killed in the Nov 8 landing, lived in Louisa.  A Purple Heart was awarded to Pvt. Preston posthumously by the government and has been received by Mrs. Preston. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

PRINCE, John Patton

1861-1943

John Patton Prince, son of David Prince and Mary Ferguson Prince, was born Jun 8, 1861, departed this life Dec 25, 1943, at the age of 82 years 6 months, 17 days. He was united in marriage to Florence Whitt in 1882. To this union were born 10 children, David of Twin Branch, Mrs. Milton Fugitt of Adams, Mrs. Chester Roberts of Sharpsville, PA, Mrs. Wilson Roberts of Springfield, OH, Mason and Noah Adams. the other four departed this life some time ago. He left 28 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, 2 sisters, Mrs. Isaac Adams of Columbus, OH, and Mrs. Ella Bowe of Louisa, one brother, Sam Prince of Adams, besides a host of friends and relatives. He was converted 31 years ago and lived a strictly devoted Christian life. He joined the Freewill Baptist Church Jun 8, 1939. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

RATCLIFF, Wayne Andrew

Wayne Andrew Ratcliff, son of the late Isaac and Deniza Sutier Ratcliff, died of a heart attack Wednesday morning Dec 29, 1943, at the age of 62 years 9 months and 26 days. He leaves to mourn his death his wife, Isabelle Hicks Ratcliff, and 4 daughters, Grace, Mrs. George Leidy of Barberton, OH, Mrs. Hylbert Heflin of Shinnston, WV, and Marjorie, at home, also one grandson, Phillip Wayne Leidy; 2 brothers, Henry of Gowen, OK, and Charles of Kingston, OH; one sister, Mrs. Paris Webb of Webbville, KY. Another sister, Mrs. Lewis Thompson of Holden, WV preceded him in death Dec 11, 1942. Andy was a member of the Methodist Church for the past 20 years. He was laid to rest in the Sunset Cemetery at Clarksburg, WV. Big Sandy news, Jan 21, 1944

 

ROBERTS, Laura (Arrington)

1859-1944

Blaine, KY, Jan 19--Laura Roberts died Jan 13, 1944 aged 84 years. She had been a life long member of the Methodist Church. She was the wife of Dr. Allen T. Roberts who preceded her in death many years ago. She leaves one son, Benson, at home and many relatives and friends. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

Mrs. Laura Arrington Roberts, 84, widow of the late Allen T. Roberts, died Thursday at her home at Blaine. Funeral rites were conducted Saturday afternoon at the home and interment was made in the family cemetery. Mrs. Roberts, a daughter of the late Jake and Susan Edwards Arrington, was born in Virginia. She had lived in the Blaine section of this county for the past 58 years, and had been a member of the Methodist Church 45 years. Surviving are 3 sisters, Mrs. Eustice Grubb of Oklahoma, Mrs. Ed Chapman of Texas, and Mrs. Miriam Fitch of New York, NY, 2 brothers, Allen Arrington, of Dingus, WV and Robert Arrington of New Mexico and a son, B. F. Roberts of Blaine. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

Laura A. Arrington, daughter of Jacob Arrington and Susan Arrington, was born Jul 27, 1859, departed this life Jan 13, 1944, at the age of 84 yeas, 6 months, and 14 days. She was united in marriage to Dr. Allen T. Roberts at the age of 24. To this union were born 2 sons. The elder son, Celsus Roberts, preceded her in death 12 years ago. The younger son, Benson Roberts, survives. She leaves to mourn her loss, her son, 3 grandsons and one granddaughter. The two older ones, Allen T. Roberts and John Benton Roberts are serving in the armed forces overseas. The two younger one, Jackie Roberts and Betty Roberts at home. She has been a member of the Methodist Church of Blaine for 45 years. her husband preceded her in death 40 years ago. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

RUCKER, Percy

Percy A. Rucker, 52, of Hitchins, a veteran of the first world war, died Jan 15. He was a son of John Rucker of Rush. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

SALYERS, Thomas S.

1866-1944

T.S. SALYERS, ONCE U. S. MARSHALL, DIES

Thomas S. Salyers, 77, native Lawrence Countian, who as a U. S. Marshall 40 yeas ago covered his district in the Eastern Kentucky hills on horseback, died Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. at his home. At the time Mr. Salyers was marshall, his district extended from Pike to Mason counties. Later he served as chief of police at Catlettsburg and as a policeman. He was an honorary member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

SCARBERRY, Lina (Castle)

1862-1944

Mrs. Lina Scarberry, the mother of 10 children, 69 grandchildren, and 79 great grandchildren, passed away on Jan 3 at her home at Lowmansville. A few days previously she had suffered a stroke of paralysis. The funeral was conducted Sunday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Amos Castle, with Nathan VanHoose officiating, and at the Sycamore Church with Brothers Scott Castle and Millard VanHoose in charge. Seven of her ten children survive besides a host of relatives and friends. She had been a faithful member of the Freewill Baptist Church for some 60 years. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

SHY, Robert R.

Robert R. Shy, 75, died suddenly at his home on Prichard, WV, route 2, Jan 3. He is survived by 2 sons, Delbert Shy of Prichard and Robert L. Shy of the U. S. Coast Guard patrol; one daughter, Mrs. Elva Paulin of Minersville, OH; 2 brothers, A. A. and Girard Shy of Huntington. Burial was in the Meredith cemetery on White's Creek. Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

SMITH, Anna (Miller)

Mrs. Anna Miller Smith, 84, respected citizen of the Bear Creek section, died Monday morning at 1:30 at her home at Adeline. She had been ill six weeks of complications. Deceased was born in Switzerland and came to America at the age of six with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ulric Miller. She had lived in the Bear Creek section since coming to America, and had been a member of the Sulphur Springs Methodist Church since early girlhood. Funeral was conducted at the home Wednesday afternoon and interment was made in the Olge family cemetery near Adeline. Mrs. Smith's first husband, F. W. Ogle, died in 1922. She later was married to W. D. Smith, who survived. Also surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Ira Vanhorn of Adeline, a son, Uric Ogle of Ashland, a sister, Mrs. Clara Lew of New Martinsville, WV, 5 grandchildren, Mrs. J. Walter Thompson, Miss Mary Lou Ogle, of Ashland, Charles Vanhorn of Buchanan and Roy and Ray Ogle in the U. S. Army. Big Sandy News, Big Sandy News, Jan 14, 1944

 

SPARKS, Macon S.

Macon S. Sparks, 61, former New Boston, OH city fireman and lately an operator of a service station in Ironton, was accidentally killed in Ironton. The death wound resulted from the discharge of a pistol he carried in his belt as was his custom when he went to his filling station. He was the victim of a holdup a year ago. His body was beside his auto in front of his home. He was a brother of Arlie Sparks of Whitehouse and Carnis Sparks of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944

 

THOMPSON, Billy Joe

Billy Joe Thompson, 7 year old son of Lonnie D. and Wilma Foster Thompson died at the Thompson home in Louisa Monday at midnight. the Thompson family moved to Louisa 2 weeks ago from near Fort Gay. Another son, Montie Wray, age 11, died a month ago. Funeral for Billy Joe will be conducted Friday at 2 p.m. at the Spruce Lick Baptist Church with Rev. Audrey Lester officiating. Surviving besides the parents are 2 brothers and a sister. Big Sandy news, Jan 28, 1944

 

THOMPSON, Emma Elizabeth (Hayes)

1875-1944

Mrs. Emma Elizabeth Thompson, 68, wife of Milton S. Thompson, died Friday morning at 3:45 o'clock at the Thompson home at Adams. She had been in failing health five years and pneumonia developed a week before her demise. Funeral rites were conducted Saturday afternoon at the home with Rev. S. B. Ball of Louisa officiating., and interment was made in the family cemetery. Mrs. Thompson was a daughter of the late Martin and Mary Dean Hayes and was born and reared near Adams and had lived there all her life. She had been a member of the Methodist Church for 25 years. Surviving besides the husband are two daughters, Mrs. Morgan Wheeler of Adams and Miss Maxie Miller, at home, and one son, Frank Thompson of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Jan 21, 1944

 

YORK, Alex

Alex York, 44, native of this county who has resided at McAndrews the past year, died Monday while being removed to a Williamson hospital after he had sustained fatal injuries in the Black Gem coal mine on Pond Creek. He is survived by his wife and 9 children. The family moved from the Torchlight section to McAndrews about a year ago. The body was returned to this county Tuesday for funeral and interment. Funeral rites will be conducted Friday or Saturday, the time to be determined after a son arrives from a defense plant. Big Sandy News, Jan 28, 1944


 

FEBRUARY 1944

 


 

BAILEY, Blanche M. (Burchett)

1899-1944

Mrs. Blanche M. Bailey, 44, died early Saturday morning at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Burchett of Louisa, route 3, in the Deephole section. She had been ill for many months. Funeral rites were conducted Monday afternoon at 2 from the Burchett home with Rev. Oscar Segraves and Rev. Gallie Isaacs officiating and interment made in the Burchett family cemetery. Deceased was born Mar 6, 1899. She was a member of the Methodist church. Surviving are her parents, Thomas H. and Maggie Cooper Burchett, two sons, Lester Bailey, serving in the Army overseas and Seaman Billy Bailey, serving in the Navy at sea; 4 sisters, Mrs. Harvey Preece, route 3, Louisa, Mrs. E. A. Jensen, San Francisco, CA, Mrs. Gladys Hall, Lexington, and Mrs. G. B. Johnston, Clarksburg, WV and 5 brothers, Arthur Burchett, Barboursville, WV, George Burchett, Los Angeles, CA, Oliver T. Burchett, of Huntington, WV, now in the Navy, Sgt. Robert Burchett, Stockton, CA and Fulton L. Burchett in the navy at sea. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

BAYS, James B.

Last rites for Jams B. Bays, 75, of Hitchins, were held Feb 3rd at the Holiness Church, with Rev. Leonard Fleming, officiating. Mr. Bays died on Tuesday Feb 1 at 12:35 p.m. following a long illness. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Temple Bays of Hitchins, besides many other relatives and friends. Burial was in the family cemetery at Hitchins. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

BOGGS, Mary Elizabeth (Boggs)

Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Boggs, 81, native of Elliott county, died Monday at the home of a brother, John Boggs at Franklin Furnace, OH. Deceased was a daughter of John and Helena Cox Boggs and was born in Elliott county. She was married to Charles Boggs, also of Elliott county. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

BOWLING, A. C.

C. Bowling, 65, well known merchant and stock dealer of Hitchens died suddenly at 5 Monday morning. Death was caused by a heart attack. He had been in apparent good health and his death was a shock to his family and a host of friends. He had been prominent in the Hitchins business scene for many years and was formerly a hotel owner before entering the retail business. In addition, Mr. Bowling owned a large stock farm and was well known as a stock dealer. His first wife, Minnie Stuart Bowling, died several years ago, and one son, O. D. Bowling, was killed in an auto accident in Texas a number of years ago. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Madge Rice Bowling, 2 daughters, Mrs. Thelma Vanvelkinburg of Los Angeles, CA and Mrs. Belva Rice of Houston, TX, one son, Ernest Bowling of Grayson and four grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

BRANHAM, Mrs. G. W.

Mrs. J. C. Hager, of Louisa received word last Thursday that her grandmother, Mrs. G. W. Branham, had died in Tulsa, OK. She was 93 years old. She lived in Catlettsburg before going to Oklahoma. She is survived by 7 children and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Big Sandy news, Feb 18, 1944

 

BREWER, Louise (Stepp)

1876-1944

Mrs. Louise Brewer, 67, of Kermit, died Friday at her home. She had been ill since last December and death was caused by a tumor. Deceased was born in 1876 at Inez, KY, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mat Stepp. She was the widow of David Brewer of Kermit. Big Sandy News, Feb 4, 1944

 

BURCHETT, William Lyod

In memory of my loving brother, William Lyod Burchett, who died at his home on East Fork Jan 29. He was 7 days old. He was buried in the Fannin Cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Burchett, one brother, Floyd, at home and one sister, Miss Virginia Burchett of Yatesville. Gone but not forgotten and left us here to weep till we are called to follow him to the grave to sleep. He was dearly loved by his parents and will be greatly missed. His sister, Virginia H. Burchett. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

BURTON, Ella Jane (York)

1858-1944

Mrs. Ella Jane Burton, 85, widow of the late Judge Samuel H. Burton, died Jan 20, at her home on Brushey near Blaine. A large assemblage attended the funeral which was conducted Saturday morning, Jan 22 at the home by Rev. David Hewlett of Fallsburg. Interment was made in the Burton family cemetery on Rich Creek. Mrs. Burton, one of the county's most respected women, had been a lifelong member of the Methodist Church and was a member of the Blaine chapter Order of the Eastern Star. A native of Ohio, Mrs. Burton had lived on Brushey the past 40 years. Her late husband died 6 years ago. She is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. J. L. Hewlett of Adams, Mrs. J. D. Sturgill and Mrs. G. N. Wellman, both of Ashland, and 3 sons, Dr. C. C. Burton of West Liberty, L. A. Burton, cashier of the Bank of Blaine and Frank Burton of route 1, Ashland, Bit Sandy News, Feb 4, 1944

 

CANTRELL, Ison

1858-1944

Ison Cantrell, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jim Cantrell, formerly of Blaine, died at the home of one of his sons, at Blaine about 3:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb 8th He was born Dec 16, 1858, his age being 86 years 1 month and 22 days. His wife, the former Margaret Skaggs, preceded him in death several years ago. He leaves to mourn his loss 2 sons, Proctor Cantrell and Pilate Cantrell, both of Blaine, 2 daughters, Mrs. Chilt Osborne and Mrs. Hobe Justice also of Blaine, 27 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

CAUDILL, Lois Gay (Thompson)

1925-1944

The body of Mrs. Lois Gay Caudill, 18, who died suddenly at Hollister, CA, Jan 31, was returned to this county Sunday and taken to the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Walker Thompson at Wilbur where funeral was conducted Tuesday. Rev. Milt Cordle officiated. Mrs. Caudill went to California about the middle of January to be with her husband, Petty Officer First Class Homer J. Caudill, who had just been assigned to shore duty in the Navy there after serving 3 years at sea, part of the time in the Solomon Islands and South Pacific war zone. Mrs. Caudill was a patient in a Louisa hospital shortly before Christmas when a son was born, but the infant died at birth. Deceased was a daughter of Walker and Nancy O'Bryan Thompson of Wilbur. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

CHAFFIN, Fred

Fred Chaffin, 73, well known Lawrence county farmer, died early Saturday morning at his home at Yatesville after suffering a stroke the day before. Mr. Chaffin was stricken Friday noon while standing in front of the fireplace in his home talking to a son, Sgt. Willard Chaffin, who had returned the day before on a furlough from his post in Florida. Funeral arrangements are incomplete pending word from another son, Sgt. Edison Chaffin, serving in the U. S. Army in Alaska. Deceased a son of the late John and Harriet Goins Chaffin was born in the Twin Branch section. He is survived by four daughters, Mrs. Medley Toppins, Holden, WV, Mrs. Tom Hayes, Racine, WV and Misses Harriet and Cuba Chaffin at home, and 5 sons, Sgt. Willard Chaffin, U. S. Army, stationed in Florida, Sgt. Edison Chaffin, U. S. Army stationed in Alaska, J. D. Chaffin, Louisa, route 3, Stant Chaffin and Mitchell Chaffin, both of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

CONLEY, John

1878-1944

John Conley, 66, well known Louisa citizen, died Wednesday midnight at his home here after an illness of 7 weeks. Deceased, a son of the late James and Nancy Stansberry Conley, was born and reared at Clifford. He moved to Louisa 23 years ago. Funeral rites will be held in the Louisa Freewill Baptist Church Sunday afternoon at 2 with Rev. William W. Moore and Rev. William Burgess officiating. Deceased had been a member of the Freewill Baptist Church one year and was a member of the Louisa, I.O.O.F. Lodge. The Lodge will conduct ritual at the funeral. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Recie Sammons Conley, 3 daughters, Mrs. J. A. Ward, Charleston, IN, Mrs. T. A. Hardin, Louisa and Miss Dapthna Conley, at home; one sister, Mrs. A. T. Shannon of Louisa and one brother, Ed Conley of Louisa route 2. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

John Conley, 65, widely known through her and in West Virginia, died Thursday morning Feb 10 at his home in Louisa after an illness of 7 weeks. Deceased had been a retired merchant for the past year, due to ill health. He was a son of the late James Conley and Nancy Stansberry Conley. From a very young age he was reared by an uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Elsworth Stanberry. Deceased was born Oct 20, 1878, in Lawrence county, KY. He was reared near Clifford and has been a highly respected citizen of Louisa for the past 24 years. He was a member of the Freewill Baptist church with Rev. William W. Moore and Rev. William Burgess, officiating. He was laid to rest in Pine Hill Cemetery with the Louisa I.O.O. F. Lodge, of which he was an active member since early manhood, conducting their ritual. Deceased is survived by his wife, Rissie Sammons Conley, 3 daughters, Mrs. J. A. Ward, Charlestown, IN, Mrs. T. H. Hardin, Louisa, and Daphne Frances Conley at home; 3 grandchildren, Jimmie Ward, Charlestown, IN, Barbara June Hardin and Janet Rhoe Hardin, Louisa, one brother, Edd Conley, Louisa, a sister, Mrs. A. T. Shannon, Louisa and an aunt who raised him, Mrs. Sadie  Stansberry Newberry, Kenova, WV. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

DAVIS, Madusie (Derosett)

1864-1944

Mrs. Madusie Davis, 80 widow of the late W. B. Davis, died Monday evening at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Alonzo Castle at Ulysses. She had been ill 11 months. Funeral was conducted Wednesday at the home of Mrs. Castle with Rev. Howard George of Neon, KY, officiating and interment was made in the Davis cemetery at Ulysses. Deceased was born and reared at Prestonsburg but had lived  near Ulysses the past 60 years. She had been a member of the Freewill Baptist church 20 years. Surviving are 6 daughters, Mrs. Alonzo Castle, Ulysses, Mrs. Ine Price, Richardson, Mrs. John Preston, Phoenix, AZ, Mrs. Earl Jacoby, Johnstown, OH,  Mrs. Arthur Weikert, Columbus, OH, and Mrs. Charles Hatfield, Mt. Vernon, OH, and six sons, L. T. Dennis, June and Alvin Davis, all of Columbus, OH, Corbet Davis of Catlettsburg and Burns Davis of Ulysses. Her husband died 5 years ago. Big Sandy news, Feb 18, 1944

 

ELLIS, Charles E.

Fort Gay, WV, Feb 19--Pvt. Charles E. Ellis, son of Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Ellis, of the mouth of Little Hurricane, 5 miles below Fort Gay, was killed in action while serving in the Fifth Army in Italy, the War department has informed his parents. Pvt. Ellis was inducted from Wayne county draft board No. 2 Feb 4, 1943 and had been over seas only a few months. He is survived by his parents and several brothers and sisters. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

EVANS, Ora Bell (Sagraves)

On Jan 31 the angel of death visited the home of J. H. Evans, at Martha and took his loving and devoted wife. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. She was a loving mother, a kind and considerate wife. She leaves to mourn her passing 3 sons, C. G. Evans, Springfield, IL, Mont of Martha and Ray of Flat Gap; 2 daughters, Mrs. Addie  Sagraves of Flat Gap and Mrs. Audrey Wright of Blaine, her husband and several grandchildren. At her passing all of the children were at her home except one daughter, she being unable to be there due to a recent operation. Big Sandy news, Feb 11, 1944

 

FYFFE, Susan Francis (Ferguson)

1870-1944

Keaton, KY, Feb 1--Death the grim reaper entered our little village early Saturday morning to relieve the suffering  of Mrs. James Fyffe, who had suffered untold agony the past five weeks. She leaves to mourn her passing her husband, and 10 children--Mrs. Margaret Lyon and Mrs. Charley Bailey, Barnrock, Mrs. Merida Wright, Mrs. Hood Wallin, and Mrs. Herman Kelley of Keaton, Mrs. Isaac Ferguson of Moon, Mrs. Lonnie Hill of Relief, Mrs. Hurshell Conley of Keaton, Noah and Shelby of Portsmouth, OH, 43 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren besides a great number of other relatives and friends. The funeral was conducted from the home Sunday by Rev. Tommy Bailey of Keaton and Rev. Lonza Reed of Flat Gap. She was laid to rest on the hill overlooking the home. Having visited her during her illness, we known her suffering was unbearable and we also known everything was done for her that human hands could do, for her children, neighbors and friends were at her bedside constantly to wait on her needs and try in any way possible to alleviate her suffering, but God needed her on high and when He called we believe she gladly answered the summons. Though her suffering was great, her crown will be bright for her life these past many years has been a shining pathway to her children and all who came in contact with her. She had been a member of the Upper Keaton Baptist Church for many years and will be sadly missed in the church as well as in the old home, but we know she is only sleeping the sleep of the just and when death came she only laid down her cross and in the morning of the resurrection will pick up the crown that Jesus has for all his children who live faithfully to the end. Big Sandy News, Feb 4, 1944

 

GRANT, Julia Borders

1855-1944

Mrs. Julia Borders Grant, 89, native of the Peach Orchard section of this county, died Sunday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. W. J. Walker in Ashland. She had been critically ill several days of infirmities incident to advanced age. Deceased was born Apr 12, 1855 at Peach Orchard. She moved to Catlettsburg later and was a devout member for many years of the Catlettsburg Methodist Episcopal Church South. Funeral was conducted Tuesday at the Walker home in Ashland with Rev. O. P. Smith officiating, and interment was made in the Ashland Cemetery. She is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Walker and Mrs. John M. Moore of  Russell, 2 sons, Robert M. Grant of Huntington and A. W. Grant of Memphis. Her husband died 20 years ago. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

HENSLEY, William

1864-1944

The Rev. William Hensley, 79, pastor of the United Baptist Church at Kermit for the past 15 years, died Jan 26 at his home at Kermit, terminating an illness of one month and 50 years of service as a minister of the Gospel. He was born Jan 28, 1864 at Oppy, KY, a son of S. D. and Marinda Ball Hensley and was married to the former Mary E. Fannin. Decedent had served as pastor at Long Branch, KY for 40 years. He is survived by the widow, who is 73 years of age, 7 children, S. D. and David Hensley of Warfield, KY, Moses Hensley of Kermit, Mrs. Telia Cassady of Inez, KY, Mrs. Stella Chaffin, Mrs. Bertha Sartin and Mrs. Zipporah Dalton, all of Warfield. Big Sandy News, Feb 4, 1944

 

HOOSER Herbert

Herbert Lindbergh Hooser, 15 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. John Hooser of Buchanan, died at Buchanan Tuesday. Funeral was conducted at the Buchanan Chapel Methodist Church Wednesday with Revs. Neff, Copley and Morris officiating and interment was made in the Buchanan Chapel Cemetery. Deceased was a member of Prichard Memorial Methodist Church at Buchanan. Surviving besides the parents are 4 sisters, Mrs. Ollie Courtney, Buchanan, Mrs. Herbert Arey, Chester, PA, Mrs. Maude Opell, Michigan, Miss Mary Hooser, Hubbardstown, WV, and 4 brothers, Ben Burke, Hawaii, Carl Hooser in the U. S. Army and Buddy and Warren Hooser, Hubbardstown. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

JACKSON, Fred

Fred Jackson, aged about 50, native of this county, died Feb 10 at his home in Logan, WV following a stroke suffered the same day. Deceased, a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Hinton Jackson, was born and reared on Bolts Fork section of this county. He had lived in Louisa the past 18 years and was employed by a machinery firm. He was a cousin of Judge Naaman Jackson of Logan, also a native of this county. He is survived by his wife, the former, Miss Lona Queen, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John E. Queen of this county, and 4 sons, and a daughter and one brother, Wade Jackson of Portsmouth, OH. Funeral was conducted at Logan Sunday and interment made there. Lawrence countians who attended the rite were Eugene Queen, Bascom Queen and Earl Elswick. Big Sandy news, Feb 18, 1944

 

JORDAN, David

David Jordan, 55, native of Cordell who has been working in a Curtis-Wright plant in Columbus, OH, the past year, died in a Louisa hospital Thursday night. He had been seriously ill a week of a heart ailment and was admitted to the hospital Thursday morning. Funeral will be conducted at the Morris cemetery on Brushey Sunday afternoon at 1:30 with the Rev. Arthur Morris officiating. Interment will be made there. Deceased was a son of the late Laben and Emma Moore Jordan of Cordell. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving are a sister, Mrs. John Nelson of Columbus, OH; 2 half sister, Mrs. Jesse Cordle and Mrs. Jesse Stewart, both of Alton, OH and 2 half brothers, Si Jordan and James Jordan, also of Alton, OH. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

JORDAN, Woodrow D.

Woodrow D. Jordan, infant son of Calvin and Grace Coburn Jordan of Ashland, and a grandson of Green Jordan of Glenwood, died Tuesday and was buried in the Leslie Cemetery of Bolts Fork. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

MAYNARD, Rinda (Moore) Damron

Mrs. Rinda Damron Maynard, of Dunlow died of pneumonia at her home Jan 31. Mrs. Maynard had been in ill health for several months. She was the daughter of Thomas Pat and Oma Williams Moore. After the death of her first husband, M. F. Damron, she was married to Jason Maynard, who survived. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

MESSER, W. M. "Bill"

M. "Bill" Messer, 91, farmer and pioneer citizen of the Jennies Creek section near Kermit died Feb 11. He was a son of Morgan Messer, famed logger and hunter of Jennies Creek. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

MIDKIFF, Valkey W.

Capt. Valkey W. Midkiff, 63, of Louisa, Chesapeake & Ohio special agent on the Big Sandy division, died at noon Saturday in the C & O hospital at Clifton Forge, VA. Capt. Midkiff, who had been ill 3 weeks, was removed to the Clifton Forge hospital Monday of last week for medical attention. Mrs. Midkiff was called to his bedside last Thursday when he suffered 3 heart attacks and was with him when death came Saturday. The body was returned Saturday night to Huntington, his former home, and funeral rites were conducted at the Reager Funeral Home there Monday afternoon with Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Louisa, officiating. Interment was made in Woodmere cemetery, Huntington. A large assemblage attended the funeral, including many from Louisa and elsewhere along the Big Sandy division of the C & O where the deceased was widely known and well liked. Capt. Midkiff served in France as Captain of an infantry company in the First World War, having been mustered into service when serving in the West Virginia National Guard. After the war, he served two years as captain in the West Virginia State Police and handled assignments during the Logan county mine war in the early '20's. Later he was in charge of federal prohibition enforcement in Southern West Virginia. He came to Louisa as C & O special agent 10 years ago and had resided here since. He had many friends in Louisa and throughout the Big Sandy Valley. Capt. Midkiff was reared in Huntington and was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Huntington. He also was a member of the W. O. Johnson Post American Legion of Louisa and a number of local Legionnaries attended the funeral in Huntington. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Bessie Midkiff, one son, Sgt. William O Midkiff, U. S. Army Air Force at Fort Benjamin Harrison, IN, 2 daughters, Mrs. Paul Simonds, of Logan, WV and Mrs. H. e. Rhodes of Newport News, VA. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

MILLER, Della May (Griffith)

Mrs. Della May Miller, 53, wife of Henry F. Miller of Meades Branch died Feb 14 at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Bernard Adkins at Georges Creek. She had been ill several months. Funeral was conducted Thursday afternoon at the Gilbert Miller home on Meades Branch with Rev. Arlie Blackburn officiating and interment was made in the Miller family cemetery on Meades Branch. Mrs. Miller, a daughter of the late Irvin and Matilda Deboard Griffith, was born and reared at Lowmansville. She had resided on Meades the past 24 years and had been a member of the Church of God 36 years. Surviving besides the husband are 3 daughters, Mrs. Earl Meade, Patrick, Mrs. Clyde McKinster, Adams, and Mrs. Adkins of Georges Creek; 3 sons, Cecil and Bert Miller both of Columbus, and Sgt. Gilbert Miller, U. S. Army Air Force, Orlando, FL; one sister, Mrs. Charles Young, Lowmansville and 3 brothers William M. Griffith, Ulysses, Henry Griffith, Lowmansville and Frank Griffith, Estil, KY. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

MILLER, Tom

Tom Miller, 71, well known Lawrence county farmer, of Louisa route 1, died Wednesday morning at 2 at his home a little above Walbridge. Deceased a son of the late A. H. and Marie Shannon Miller, was born and reared and had lived all his life on the Miller farm. He had been a member of the Methodist Church 14 years. Funeral services will be conducted at the home, Friday afternoon at 1 with Rev. William W. Moore and Rev. Sylvester Ball officiating, and interment will be made in the family cemetery. Mr. Miller is survived by a sister, Mrs. John Ratcliff of Lancer, KY, and 3 brothers, Hose Miller of Columbus, OH, Goebel Miller of Louisa, route 1, and Jim Miller of Louisa. His wife, Mrs. Rosa Miller, died in 1941. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

MOORE, Minnie (Scarbury)

Mrs. Minnie Scarbury Moore, 55, wife of Noah Moore, died Wednesday morning at the Moore home at Gallup after a long illness. Funeral will be conducted Friday afternoon at 2 at the home and interment will be made in the McClure Cemetery at Gallup. Mrs. Moore was born at Georges Creek, a daughter of Jake and Mary Wildes Scarbury and had resided at Gallup the past 40 years. She was a member of the Gallup Methodist Church. Surviving besides the husband are 3 daughters, Mrs. Floyd Hardin, Chapman, Mrs. Jesse Watts, Huntington, and Miss Shirley Moore, at home, 2 sons, Gussie and Hiram at home, 3 sisters, Mrs. Ed Boyd, Catlettsburg, Mrs. Ed Watts, Huntington and Mrs. Ray Peterman, Columbus and 3 brothers, Tom and Gus Scarbury of Catlettsburg and Jesse Scarbury of Columbus. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

MURPHY, Dixie (Goff)

1865-1944

Mrs. Dixie Goff Murphy, 78, widow of Floyd Williamson Murphy and a native of White Post, Martin county, died at her home at Nolan, Sunday. Deceased was a daughter of Capt. John Benton Goff, a native of Mississippi, who came to the Civil War and acquired vast real estate holdings. A staunch Southerner, Capt. Goff, organized and commanded a company of soldiers in the Civil War that won renown as the "Pine Knots." Members of the company were recruited mostly in Martin and Pike counties.  While some of the properties were sold during his life time he left as a legacy to his children a tract of about 1800 acres in Martin county and a tract of about 1400 acres in Pike county. These tracts are now under development by leases to the Cinderella Coal Corporation, the Big Creek Winifrede Coal Co., and the Winco-Block Coal Co.  Mrs. Murphy was born Dec 19, 1865, and her marriage to Mr. Murphy was solemnized at White Post by the Rev. Elijah Hensley on Aug 4, 1884. Mr. Murphy , who died in 1939, was born on a farm that later became the site of Williamson, then in Logan county.  A woman of fine Christian character, Mrs. Murphy endeared herself to thousands of friends. She was a devout member of the Methodist Church. Her passing, while not unexpected will be deeply regretted by all how knew her. Only surviving child is Grover C. Murphy, prominent Nolan resident. She leaves 2 sisters, Mrs. Sarah E. Young of Nolan and Mrs. Maggie Sluss of Great Neck, Long Island, whose husband, John Sluss, was an early resident engineer of the N & W with headquarters in Williamson. Big Sandy News, Feb 4, 1944

 

MURRAY, Nannie (Pyles)

1866-1944

Mrs. Nannie Pyles Murray, 77, widow of the late Albert Murray, died at the Murray home here Thursday night of last week. She had been ill since suffering a stroke three years ago. A large assemblage attended the funeral rites, held Sunday afternoon in the Curtright Funeral Home with Rev. L. M. Rogers, pastor of the Methodist Church, and Roy J. C. Hager, pastor of the First Baptist church officiating. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery here.  Mrs. Murray was born and reared at Whites Creek, WV, a daughter of the late George and Elizabeth Belangee Pyles. The family moved to Louisa 28 years ago. Mr. Murray died in 1934. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. F. M. Younkin and Mrs. Elizabeth Wallace, both of Louisa; two grandchildren, Mrs. Charles Hager and Miss Madlyn Wallace of Louisa, four brothers, Valentine Pyles, R. 1, Wayne, WV, Laben and Henry Pyles, both of Kenova, WV, and George Pyles of Huntington, WV. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

NORRIS, Leonard

The body of Leonard Norris, 14 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Emmett Norris of Midas, Floyd county, who was fatally injured Sunday when a C & O train hit a car in which he was riding, was brought back to this county and taken to the Martha section for burial. Funeral was conducted Tuesday at the Edwards Cemetery at the mouth of Knobb Branch with Rev. Herman Ross officiating. Young Norris died in the Martin General Hospital about 30 minutes after sustaining a broken neck when a train hit the rear end of an auto in which he was a passenger. Seven others were in the car and another person was seriously hurt. The Norris family moved to Floyd county about a year ago. The youth is survived by his parents and 5 brothers and sisters. His mother is the daughter of Merida Edwards of Caines Creek. Big Sandy News, May 18, 1944

 

O'PELL, George

George O'Pell, 71 year old farmer of the Durbin section of Boyd county, died Sunday in a Kenova hospital. Deceased, a native of Germany, had lived in Boyd county 64 years. Funeral was conducted at the home on Durbin Wednesday with Rev. Sam Slone, pastor of the Missionary Baptist Church of Catlettsburg, officiating, and interment was made in the Fannin cemetery. Surviving are his wife,  Mrs. Dora Rankin O'Pell, 5 sons, Frank of Catlettsburg, Perry, Nick, Ray and Marvin all of Buchanan, KY, 3 daughters, Mrs. Della Childers of Catlettsburg, Mrs. Cora Belle White and Mrs. Alma Moore both of Buchanan, KY. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

OSBORN, Pharoah H.

Pharoah H. Osborn, 77 of Kenova, coroner of Wayne county, died at his home Jan 31. Funeral services were conducted at the First Baptist Church in Kenova Friday with burial in the family cemetery, near Echo. Mr. Osborn was born at Echo, a son of the late Walter and Martha Vaughan Osborn. for several years he was employed by the N & W Railway Co., In 1918, he established an automobile business in Kenova. He is survived by the widow, Mrs. Julia Osborn, 2 sisters, Mrs. Freelin Bartram of Echo and Mrs. Louella Plummer of Los Angeles, a brother, A. V. Osborn of Circleville, OH. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

ROBINSON, Cleve

Cleveland Robinson, 50, native of this county, died Thursday morning at his home in Johnson City, TN relatives have been informed. Deceased, a veteran of World War I, was born and reared near Zelda. He is a brother of Warren Robinson and Mrs. John Hart of Zelda. Funeral arrangements had not been completed at the time The New went to press. Big Sandy News, Feb 4, 1944

 

ROBINSON, Grover Cleveland

Grover Cleveland Robinson, age 63, died Feb 3 at Johnson City, TN in the Veteran's hospital. He was a former resident of this county, coming here from Pike county when but a small boy. He was a son of R. P. and Satchie Robinson, who preceded him in death several years ago. Cleve, as we all knew him, was well known here. He served in World War I and served on the police force in New York City for several years. When he became disabled, he spent the rest of his life in the D. V. A. home and with his brothers. He belonged to the Salvation Army. Two days before his passing he was asked by Capt. Hall concerning his standing with God, and his answer was "I am ready to go just waiting for God to call me." He is survived by his wife, Stella Robinson of Johnson City, one daughter, Mildred Satchie Robinson of New York City; one sister, Mrs. Isom Howell of Orville, WA, 2 brothers, Warren of Zelda, KY and Ben of Neon, KY. Funeral services was conducted by Rev. Ira Copley and he was laid to rest at Buchanan Chapel near Zelda. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

ROBINSON, John

John Robinson, 71, native of near Fort Gay, died Sunday at his home in Huntington where he had lived the past 35 years. He was a concrete contractor until retiring a few years ago. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. C. W. White of Washington, 3 sons, T. F. Robinson of Huntington, Fred Robinson of Baltimore and Ernest Robinson, serving with an Army unit in Italy; 2 brothers, Sam and William Robinson of Fort Gay; 2 sisters, Mrs. Frances Walker and Mrs. Harvey Kitts of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Feb 4, 1944

 

SMITH, Adam Gilbert

1876-1944

Adam Gilbert Smith, born Aug 21, 1876, age 67 year, died at his home on Grassy, WV, Feb 3, after an illness of 11 months. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. He was married Mar 30, 1900, to Miss Betty Porter. Seven children were born to this union, four of whom survive, Mrs. Emma St. Clair, of Aflex, KY, Miss Minerva Smith and Mrs. Rosa Thompson at home, and Mrs. Mary Brady of Huntington, the widow, Mrs. Betty Smith, one brother, Allen Smith, of Grassy, 2 sisters, Mrs. Jenny Napier, of Stiltner and Mrs. Martha Raines of Dunlow, 4 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

SPARKS, John T.

John T. Sparks, 79, farmer of Louisa route 4, died Feb 11 at his home near the mouth of Horseford. He had been seriously ill since suffering a stroke 6 weeks ago. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon at the home of a brother, Fred Sparks at Adams, with Rev. Vess Ball and Rev. William W. Moore officiating, and interment was made in the Wellman cemetery at the mouth of Brushey. His first wife, Mrs. Patsy Sparks, died a number of years ago. Later he married Mrs. Jennie Hall, who survives. Also surviving are 4 daughters, Mrs. Robert Porter and Mrs. Lewis Certain, both of Kermit, WV, Mrs. Sam Evans of Camp Creek, WV, and Mrs. Anse Parsley of somewhere in Ohio and one brother, Fred Sparks of Adams. Deceased was born in Elliott county a son of Thomas and Jelanie Lucas Sparks. he had been a member of the United Baptist Church 35 years and had lived at Horseford the past 15 years. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

STEEL, Felcie (Lyons)

Mrs. Felcie Lyons Steel, 47, wife of Fred Steele formerly of Cordell, died Feb 17 at her home in Columbus, OH after a 9 day illness of pneumonia. The body was returned to the county and taken to the former home at Cordell. Funeral was conducted at the Cordell Church Saturday morning with Rev. William W. Moore and Rev. Green Cordle officiating. Deceased was born and reared near Blaine, a daughter of John and Alice Craft Lyons. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church 30 years. Besides the husband, who is a former deputy sheriff and rural school teacher of this county, she is survived by 3 sons, Sgt. Lowell Steele, with the U. S. Army in England, Douglas and Kendall of Columbus, and one brother, Ogly Lyons of Cordell. The Steele family moved from Cordell to Columbus 15 months ago. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

THOMPSON, Bertha (Wells)

Mrs. Bertha Wells Thompson, 48, wife of Milt Thompson of Buchanan, died Wednesday morning in an Ashland hospital where she had been a patient 5 weeks. Deceased was a daughter of the late William and Mary Lemmons Wells. Funeral will be conducted at the Buchanan Chapel Methodist Church Friday morning at 10:30 with Rev. Roy Bellomy officiating. Deceased is survived by her husband, 4 sons, 4 daughters, 4 sisters and a brother. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

VANHOOSE, Annie Jewell

Mrs. Annie Jewell VanHoose, Lowmansville, died in the Golden Rule Hospital in Paintsville, Feb 8. Her death was attributed to complication following the birth of a baby two months ago. Her husband, Ova Lee VanHoose and 2 children mourn her passing. the funeral was held at the Sycamore Church, of which church she was a member. The Elder Caldwell was in charge. Big Sandy News, Feb 18, 1944

 

VANHOOSE, Jams A.

1877-1944

James A. VanHoose retired furniture dealer of Greenup and member of a prominent Big Sandy, died Wednesday of last week, in an Ashland hospital. He was a member of the Johnson county VanHoose family and was a brother of Mrs. James Compton of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

WILLIAMS, H. W.

Rev. H. W. Williams, 81, retired farmer and Freewill Baptist minister, died at 2 Saturday morning at his home here. He had been ill 2 months of complications incident to advanced age. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon in the Louisa Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. William W. Moore and Rev. D. A. Hayes officiating and interment made in the Pine Hill Cemetery here. Rev. Williams was born in Paintsville in 1862, a son of T. S. and Melissa Stafford Williams. He lived at Charley, Lawrence County, for many years and operated a farm there, moving to Louisa when he retired a year ago.  He had been a member of the Freewill Baptist church 61 years and a minister 40 years. He is survived by his third wife, Mrs. Sarah Pelfry Williams, six sons, W. J. Williams, Gideon, Mo., G. T. Williams, Ashland, Bert Williams, Churchill, Tenn., Charles Williams, Paintsville, M. B. Williams, Bowling Green, KY., and Rev. S. T. Williams, Rading, Ohio; sister, Mrs. Frank Chandler, Lowmansville, KY. and one brother, G. B. Williams, Catlettsburg. His first wife, Mrs. Victoria Walker Williams died in 1920, and his second wife, Mrs. Sarah Hayes Williams died in 1932. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

WOOTEN, Clyde W.

A memorial service for the late Lt. Clyde W. Wooten, son of Mrs. L. C. Wooten of Louisa, will be held Sunday  afternoon at 2:30 in the Louisa Methodist Church of which the deceased was a member. Lt. Wooten, a bombardier-navigator in the U. S. Army Air Force, was killed in action near Munda in the South Pacific last Nov 16. He was crew bomber on a four-motored bomber at the time of his death. The service, which will be conducted by the pastor, Rev. Leslie M. Rogers, will be preceded by a period of organ music and will be opened with a violin solo by Mrs. F. O. See. the church choir will provide the music, which will consist of hymns having the nature of a victorious challenge to remember those who are paying the supreme price for out liberty. The choir also will assist in the responsive reading. Rev. Rogers' memorial address will be based on the theme, "Remembrance and Duty." Big Sandy News, Feb 11, 1944

 

WORKMAN, Charles

Fort Gay, WV, Feb 23--Charles Workman, 51, farmer of Saltpetre, WV, died at his home Monday at 1 a.m. after an illness of 10 days of complications. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at the Saltpetre Church and interment made in the Lynch Cemetery. Mr. Workman, a son of Chilt and Jane Harris Workman, was born and reared in the Catt Section of the county, and had lived at Saltpetre the past 20 years. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Fannie Adkins Workman, one daughter, Miss Hazel, at home, one son, Lyman Workman of Louisa, 2 sisters, Mrs. Katie Leslie and Mrs. Victoria Estep both of  Huntington, and 3 brothers, Will Workman, Fallsburg, Jay Workman, Genoa, WV, and Alfred Workman, Stiltner, WV. Big Sandy News, Feb 25, 1944

 

YORK, Treca

Miss Treca York, 24, daughter of G. W. and Virgie Thompson York of Louisa, route 2, died Jan 26 at the York home on The Point near Louisa, following an illness of a week. Funeral was conducted Friday at the See Cemetery by Rev. William W. Moore of Louisa. Surviving besides the parents are 3 sisters, Mrs. Arnold Ramey of Mansfield, OH, Mrs. Fannie Smith of Detroit, MI, and Miss Geneva York at home and one brother, Edward G. York in the U. S. Army in England. Big Sandy News, Feb 4, 1944


 

MARCH 1944

 


BARTRAM, Wayne

Wayne Bartram, 70, retired merchant and farmer of the Mill Creek section, 3 miles from Fort Gay died early this morning in a hospital in Louisa, KY, where he had been a patient several weeks. He had been ill a year. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon at the Bartram Chapel Methodist Church on Mill Creek and interment in the Bartram family cemetery. A large assemblage attended the rites. Deceased was born and reared on Mill Creek, a son of the late David and Lizzie Ratcliff Bartram. He operated a general store and farm on Mill Creek for 42 years, retiring in 1942 because of ill health. Mr. Bartram, one of the county's substantial citizens, was widely known and well liked throughout this section. He had been a member of the Methodist Church for over 40 years. He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. John Wells, Louisa, KY, a son, Clyde Bartram, of Fort Gay, a grandson, Jarvis Bartram, Fort Gay, and a brother, W. V. Bartram, Staunton, VA. His wife, Mrs. Norma Frasher Bartram died in 1925. Big Sandy News, Mar 3,1944

 

CARTER, Virgie (Short)

Mrs. Virgie Short Carter, 63, wife of G. E. Carter, died Thursday morning at the Carter home on the Mayo Trail 3 miles below Louisa. She had been ill 8 weeks. Funeral will be conducted in the Myrtle Chapel Church at Five Forks Saturday afternoon at 2 and interment will be in the Clem Short Cemetery on the Deephole road. the body will be at the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa until 1:30 Saturday. Deceased was born and reared near Louisa, a daughter of the late James C. and Laura Jordan Short. She had been a member of the Methodist Church over 30 years. Surviving besides the husband are a daughter, Mrs. Norman Bandy, Ashland, and a brother, John Jay Short, Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

 

CASKEY, Jeff D.

1877-1944

A Grayson man, Jeff D. Caskey, 65, was killed by a truck while walking along U. S. Route 52 near Wheelersburg, OH Tuesday night of last week. The driver, Russell Prichard of Louisa, was exonerated of blame. Caskey, a laborer, was born at Wrigley, Morgan County, Jan 22, 1877, a son of John and Ellen Elliott Caskey. He is survived by 2 sisters, Mrs. Nealy Atkins of Portsmouth and Mrs. Nora Ellicott of New Boston, OH; 4 brothers, Perry Caskey of Ashland, and William and Arthur Caskey of Grayson, and Tom Caskey of Bowling Green, OH. Funeral for Caskey was conducted at Grayson Friday. Big Sandy News, Mar 3, 1944

 

CASTLE, Minnie (Hinkle)

1881-1944

Mrs. Minnie Hinkle Castle, 62, wife of Sam Castle, of Louisa route 1, died early Friday morning at her home on Meades Branch. Funeral was conducted Saturday afternoon at the home and interment made in the family cemetery. Deceased was born and reared at Charley, a daughter of the late Jasper and Mary Daniels Hinkle. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church 45 years. Surviving besides the husband, are 3 daughters, Mrs. Clyde Carter and Mrs. Martin L. Moore, both of Columbus, and Mrs. Lon Scarberry of Flatwoods, 3 sons, Lewis L. Castle, serving in the U. S. Army in the South Pacific, Elmer Castle, Powell, OH and Jack Castle, Columbus, one sister, Mrs. Lindsey Miller of Charley, and 4 brothers, Dolly Hinkle and Roy Judd, both of Lowmansville and Fred Hinkle of Washington, D. C. and Lon Hinkle of Charley. Big Sandy News, Mar 3, 1944

 

COMPTON, Rose (VanHoose)

Mrs. Rose VanHoose Compton, 73, widow of the late James H. Compton, died Thursday morning at 9 at the Compton's home in Louisa. She had been ill for several months. Funeral rites, while not definite, will probably be Sunday afternoon at 2:30 in the Louisa Baptist church, Rev. J. C. Hager, the pastor, will officiate, and interment will be made in Pine Hill Cemetery here. Mrs. Compton, a daughter of the late Rev. John Wesley VanHoose and Elizabeth Bowling Vanhoose, was born and reared on Barnett's Creek, Johnson County. She had resided here the past 40 years and was one of Louisa's  esteemed older citizens. She had been a member of the Baptist Church 50 years. Her late husband, who conducted a blacksmith ship in Louisa for many years, died in 1932. Mrs. Compton is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Lindsey Hayes of Ashland, 5 sons, Leonard and Ross Compton, both of Louisa, Tanner Compton of Edwardsville, IL, Chester Compton, Dayton, OH, and Staff Sergeant Leon Compton, serving in the Armored Force at Fort Knox, KY; 3 sisters, Mrs. Minerva Williams, Oil Springs, KY, Mrs. T. J. Parsons, and Miss Della VanHoose, both of Oak Hill, OH; and 2 brothers, Charles VanHoose, Hitchins, KY and Oscar VanHoose of Portsmouth, OH. The body will be removed from the Curtright Funeral Home to the Compton home Saturday. Big Sandy news, Mar 17, 1944

 

DIAMOND, Albert

Albert, infant son of Dewey and Iona Spillman Diamond of Two Mile section, died Sunday in a Louisa hospital. Funeral was conducted Monday by Rev. W. O. Spillman and interment made in the Spillman family cemetery at Twin Branch. Besides the parents he is survived by a sister, and 11 brothers. Big Sandy News, Mar 3, 1944

 

ELSWICK, Sallie (Phillips)

Mrs. Sallie Phillips Elswick, 82, born at Sprigg, WV, died Thursday of last week at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Tobe Farey of McCarr, Pike County. John Phillips of Sprigg is a son. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

 

EVANS, Margaret (Crabtree)

Mrs. Margaret Crabtree Evans, 80, widow of the late Green Evans, died Monday night at the Evans home on route 1, Webbville. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at the Crabtree cemetery, with Rev. Fred Vanhorn officiating. Deceased was born and reared in Pike County, a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Crabtree. She moved to this county 35 years ago and was a member of the Baptist Church. She is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Noah Sprouse of route 1, Webbville, and Mrs. Lydia Hylton, Columbus, OH, and 4 sons, G. W. Evans, Webbville, Cecil Evans, Borderland, VA, John L. and Monroe Evans, both of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Mar 17,1944

 

FERGUSON, Martha Jane

Mrs. Martha Jane Ferguson, 83, died Thursday of last week at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Henry Lambert of the Zelda section. Funeral was conducted Sunday at the Buchanan Chapel Methodist Church with Rev. O. P. Smith of Russell officiating. Burial was made in the Buchanan Chapel cemetery. A large assemblage attended the rites. Mrs. Ferguson is survived by a son, Charles Ferguson of Waverly, OH, 5 daughters, Mrs. Robert Burns, St. Albans, WV, Mrs. John Thompson, Louisa, KY, Mrs. W. H. May, Whitaker, KY, Mrs. C. K. McWain, Cleveland, OH, and Mrs. Lambert. 38 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 10 great-great grandchildren also survive. Big Sandy news, Mar 17, 1944

 

FERGUSON, Rhoda

Fort Gay, WV, Mar 23--Mrs. Rhoda Ferguson, 80, of Waverly, OH, former resident of Wayne county died in a Huntington hospital Sunday. Funeral was conducted Thursday at the Greenbriar Baptist Church a few miles east of Fort Gay and interment was made in the Bartram cemetery on Wolf Creek. Rev. Carmi Crabtree officiated. Surviving are the husband, S. L. Ferguson, one daughter, Mrs. Nellie Baker of LeGrand, OH, One sons, Milton Ferguson of Parson, KS and 16 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. The body will be at the Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova until the services. Big Sandy News, Mar 24, 1944

 

FLETCHER, Phillip

Phillip Fletcher, 29, died Saturday night at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Fletcher of Louisa route 1, 5 miles South of Louisa on the Mayo Trail. He had been ill 18 months. Mr. Fletcher formerly was employed by the Wheeling Steel Corp. at Portsmouth, OH. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday at the Burgess Chapel on the Mayo Trail 6 miles from Louisa with the Rev. Henry Preece officiating. Besides the parents he is survived by 5 sisters, Mrs. W. M. Payne and Mrs. E. W. Pyle, of Portsmouth, OH, Mrs. Blaine Meade of Louisa, route 1, Mrs. Robert Bivens of Cincinnati and Mrs. Charles Kennard of Charleston, WV and 3 brothers, Henry Fletcher of Portsmouth and J. S. and W. M. Fletcher with the U. S. Army in the South Pacific. Big Sandy News, Mar 10, 1944

 

Philip Fletcher, son of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Fletcher of Louisa route 1, passed away at the home of his parents, Mar 4th at 9:55 p.m. following an illness of 18 months. He is survived by his parents, and 5 sisters, Mrs. William Payne of Portsmouth, Mrs. Robert Bivens of Cincinnati, Mrs. Charles Kennard of Charleston, WV, and Mrs. Ernest W. Pyle of Portsmouth and Mrs. Audrey Meade at home, 3 brothers, Henry Fletcher of Portsmouth, OH, and George and William Fletcher who are in the armed forces in the South Pacific. Phil was 29 years of age when he passed away and will be missed by scores of friends and relatives, as he was well liked wherever he was known. His closest relatives are sure that he has gone to a far better home as he was converted and came to know his Saviour just a few days before he left us. Big Sandy News, Mar 17, 1944

 

FRAZIER, Emma

Mrs. Emma Frazier, 71 years old, died at her home on Spring Valley Road, near Huntington, Mar 3. She is survived by 2 sons, Bascom Frazier, of Prichard and Martin Frazier, of Charleston, 6 daughters, Mrs. I. C. Chapman, Mrs. George Mallard and Mrs. Frank Long, of Huntington, Mrs. H. K. Mallard of South Charleston, Mrs. William Waller of Dayton, OH and Mrs. Nora Gilkerson of Prichard. Big Sandy News, Mar 17, 1944

 

FRAZIER, Nannie (Nolan)

Mrs. D. J. Frazier, for many years a resident of Catlettsburg and well known here, died Saturday evening in Catlettsburg. Mrs. Frazier with her husband, who was a native of Fort Gay section had frequently visited in Louisa. Funeral was conducted Tuesday afternoon at the home  in Catlettsburg with Rev. W. W. Travis, pastor of the Catlettsburg Presbyterian church, officiating and interment was made in the Catlettsburg cemetery. R. L. Vinson of Louisa, was one of the pall bearers. Before her marriage to Mr. Frazier at Ironton, OH on Nov 15, 1893, Mrs. Frazier was Miss Nannie Nolan, a native of Parkersburg, WV and a daughter of Patrick and Hannah Kennedy Nolan. She completed her education in Parkersburg and was a resident of South Point, OH, at the time of her marriage. The Frazier made their home in Catlettsburg continuously after their marriage, observing their fiftieth wedding anniversary last November. Mrs. Frazier was a devoted member of the Catlettsburg Presbyterian Church and was active in the work of the women's organizations of the church. She was a charter member of the Catlettsburg branch of the Needlework Guild and one of its directors. She will also be remembered as a former teacher in the Catlettsburg city schools. Her death bereaves her husband, 2 nieces, Mrs. Hannah Hardinge of Hagerstown, MD and Mrs. Anne F. Dawson of Rockville, MD and 2 cousins, Dr. Will Kennedy and Walter Kennedy both residents of Baltimore, MD. Big Sandy News, Mar 24, 1944

 

HARDIN, Philip S.

Philip S. Hardin, 34, well known young man of Gallup and a former rural teacher, died at 3 a.m. Tuesday in a Huntington hospital following an operation submitted to March 8th. Mr. Hardin became ill while employed as a chemical operator for the Sharples Chemical Co. in Wyandotte, MI, where he had been employed for 2 years. He was removed to the Huntington hospital 2 weeks before his death. Double pneumonia developed after the operation. Funeral rites will be conducted in the Chapman Methodist Church Friday afternoon at 2. the body was removed from the Curtright Funeral Home here to the home at Gallup Wednesday afternoon. Deceased was born and reared at Gallup, a son of Mrs. Lucretia Preece Hardin and the late W. H. Hardin. He attended Louisa high school, graduating with the class of 1931, and later attended Morehead College 2 years. He was an outstanding football player here and at Morehead. He also taught school in this county for 9 years, and was widely known. He had been a member of the Chapman Methodist Church 15 years. Surviving are his mother, Mrs. W. H. Hardin of Gallup, his wife, Mrs. Dorothy Hardin, 4 children, Phyllis, Doris, James and Thomas, all at home, 4 sisters, Mrs. E. W. Lambert, Louisa route 2, Mrs. Frank Cyrus, Dehue, WV, Mrs. Fred Sammons and Mrs. Homer Taylor, both of Detroit, MI, 7 brothers, Elias Hardin, Detroit, S. J. and T. H. Hardin, both of Louisa, John Hardin, Ashland, J. W. Hardin, Chester, PA, W. H. Hardin, Detroit, and D. B. Hardin, Gallup. Big Sandy News, Mar 17, 1944

 

HAYES, Charlie

Mattie, KY, Mar 6--Our community was again saddened on Saturday, Mar 4 when Mr. and Mrs. Zealie Hayes received a telegram from the War department that their son, Pvt. Charlie Hayes died in North Africa on Feb 9th of wounds received while in action. They received a telegram recently telling he was seriously wounded on Jan 26th. This news has brought sadness in all our homes as Charlie was a good boy and always had a smile and a kind word for his many friends. His dear parents are heartbroken over the loss of their dear son. He entered service Mar8th, 1943 and has a brother, Paul Hayes serving somewhere in Australia. He leaves to mourn his loss, father, mother, 4 sisters, Mrs. Edward Moore and Mrs. Hershel Pope of Columbus, OH, Mrs. Elizabeth Boeman and Miss June of Ashland, and 2 brothers, Donald Hayes of Columbus, OH and Paul in Australia. Also 2 grandmothers and a grandfather, Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Hayes of Georges creek and Mrs. D. B. Johnson of near Jenkins besides a host of friends and relatives. He attended Louisa high school and was employed at Columbus, OH before he entered service. He was 19 years of age. Big Sandy news, Mar 10, 1944

 

HEWLETT, Dave

David Hewlett, 82, of Buchanan, died Wednesday of last week at the home of a niece, Mrs. William Courtney, at Nelsonville, OH, where he had been visiting the past few weeks. Death followed an illness of one week. The body was returned to Catlettsburg and later taken to the Grassland Church where funeral was conducted Saturday afternoon. Burial was made in the Fannin cemetery on Bear Creek. Mr. Hewlett was born and reared at Fallsburg, a son of J. D. and Emma Moore Hewlett, pioneer citizens. For the past 35 years he had made his home with a nephew, Frank Hewlett, at Buchanan. He was a veteran of the Spanish-American War. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

 

HOLT, D. P.

Louis relatives of Rev. D. P. Holt of Cincinnati have been notified that he died in a Cincinnati hospital Monday. His funeral will be conducted Thursday afternoon in Cincinnati. Rev. Holt, a minister in the Methodist Church, is a native of Louisa. His only sister, Mrs. Ida Marcum of Kenova, is seriously ill in a Kenova hospital. Big Sandy news, Mar 10, 1944

 

HOOSER, Hubert L.

1928-1944

Hubert L. Hooser, was born to John and Emma Hooser, May 12, 1928, died Feb 22, 1944, age 15 years 10 months 20 days. He leaves to mourn his loss mother, father, 4 sisters, Mrs. Ollie Courtney, Buchanan, KY, Mrs. Herbert Arey, Chester, PA, Mrs. William O'Deif, Michigan and Miss Mary Hooser of Waverly, OH, and 4 brothers, Ben Burke and Carl Hooser, who are serving in the armed forces of our country--John Jr. and Warren G. Hooser of Waverly, OH, 3 aunts and 4 uncles, together with a host of relatives and friends. He was converted at the age of 12 years and held to his belief in God throughout his short life. He was a bright boy of sunny disposition and loved Sunday school and church and his school days with his class mates. He will be greatly missed by the entire community in which he lived. The funeral was conducted at Buchanan Chapel with Rev. C. B. Morris, Rev. G. L. Neff and Rev. Ira Copley officiating. Burial was made in Buchanan Cemetery under the direction of H. H. Curtright, Louisa, KY. Big Sandy News, Mar 17, 1944

 

JACKSON, W. M.

M. Jackson, 86 years old, died at his home on Mill Creek, near Fort Gay, Mar 6, after a long illness. He is survived by the widow and 10 children. Mr. Jackson had been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church for many years. Funeral services were conducted at the home of Rev. Wayne Thompson and Rev. Jim Harvey, with burial in the family cemetery near the home. Big Sandy News, Mar 24, 1944

 

KISE, Charles David

Charles David Kise, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kise of the Georges creek section, died Monday morning at the home. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon and interment made in the family cemetery. Surviving are the parents and a brother, Robert, Jr. Big Sandy News, Mar 10,1944

 

KITCHEN, Wanedith Elizabeth

Wanedith Elizabeth Kitchen, 19 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Kitchen of route 1, West Jefferson, OH, died Mar 19. Funeral was conducted Mar 22 at the Rader Funeral Home in West Jefferson and interment was made in the Pleasant Hill cemetery there. She is survived by her parents, sisters, Virginia and Norma Jean, brothers, Clarence, Cpl. Russell, Jeff and Junior. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

 

LAWSON, Mary Emmaline (Collier)

Mrs. Mary Emmaline Lawson, 46, wife of Robert Lawson, of Ellen, died early Monday in a Louisa hospital where she had been a patient four days. She had been ill 3 months. Funeral was conducted Wednesday at the church at Martha with Rev. William W. Moore, officiating and interment made in the Collier family cemetery. Mrs. Lawson was born and reared at Martha, a daughter of the late Henry and Samantha Kelley Collier. She had long been a member of the United Baptist Church. Besides the husband, to whom she was married 2 years ago, she is survived by 4 daughters by a previous marriage: Mrs. Cam Holbrook, Barnrock, Mrs. Hubert Osborn, Blaine, Mrs. Ray Cornelius, Springfield, OH and Miss Marie Sparks of Louisa, and by two brothers, Harry Collier of Martha and John Collier of Ohio. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

 

LYONS, Mrs. Shir

LYONS, Shirlene

LYONS, Inez

LYONS, Phyllis

LYONS, John

Five members of the family of Shir Lyons and 3 members of the family of Lewis Sherman, all former residents of the Keaton-Flat Gap section near the Lawrence- Johnson county line, were killed Sunday night in Ohio when a car in which they were returning from church was sliced in two by the Pennsylvania Railroad's "Spirit of St. Louis" at a crossing at West Jefferson, OH. Killed ware Mrs. Shir Lyons, 31, and her four children, Shirlene, 12, Inez, 10, Phyllis, 8, and John, 6, and Mrs. Lewis Sherman, 45, and her 2 children, Betty, 14, and Lena, 12.

 

Mr. Sherman, driver of the car suffered internal injuries and is a patient in Mt. Carmel hospital in Columbus. A fifth child of the Lyons', David, suffered cuts and bruises, but will recover. The bodies of Mrs. Lyon and her 4 children were brought back Wednesday morning on the Big Sandy passenger train and taken from Paintsville to the Keaton section for burial.

 

The bodies of Mrs. Sherman and her 2 children were buried at Otway, OH near Portsmouth. The families were enroute home Sunday night from church, after finding services were not scheduled when the fast-flying Pennsylvania passenger train crashed into the Sherman auto at a crossing, snuffing out the lives of 8 of its 10 passengers. Mr. Sherman was driving the car he had obtained it the day before in a trade with Mr. Lyons. Mr. Lyons and Mrs. Sherman were brother and sister. Mr. Lyons probably escaped death when he declined to accompany the families to church services at Lilly Chapel, near West Jefferson.

 

The Lyons family lived near Rome, Franklin county, OH, having moved from the Flat Gap section of Johnson county some time ago. Mr. Lyons, a son of the late Clabe Lyons of Flat Gap, served as mail carrier from Flat Gap to Paintsville for several years before moving to Ohio. His wife, was Nellie McKenzie, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John McKenzie, who now resided at Keaton. Mrs. Lyons was born and reared on Keaton. Mrs. Sherman was the former Miss Malissa Lyons, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clabe Lyons of Flat Gap. Her husband, Lewis C. Sherman, was born and reared at Relief, Morgan County. Mr. Sherman, a Baptist minister, has been employed as a crane operator in the Curtis-Wright plant in Columbus for several months and moved from Portsmouth to Columbus in January of last year.

 

Shir Lyons has 3 brothers, Luke Lyons, of Blaine, Willie Lyons of Portsmouth, and Ferd Lyons of Flat Gap and 4 sisters, Mrs. Millard Conley and Mrs. Frankie Williams both of Flat Gap, Mrs. Herbert Ferguson of Relief and Mrs. Millard Ferguson of Terryville.

 

Mrs. Lyons is survived by 2 brothers, one of whom is William McKenzie of Hilliards, OH and four sisters, and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John McKenzie of Keaton.

 

Mrs. Sherman, besides her husband and her brother, is survived by 3 other sons, Kendrick Sherman of near Rome, OH, Private Charles Sherman, with the U. S. Army at San Francisco and Seaman Second Class Lee Sherman, with the U. S. Navy at Baltimore and 3 daughters, Susan, at home, Mrs. Ruth Park, and Mrs. Marie Thomas of Peebles, OH. Big Sandy news, Mar 17,1944

 

MAYNARD, Ida V. (Copley)

Mrs. Ida V. Maynard, 39, died Feb 15 at Pinecrest Sanitarium, Beckley, after an illness of 3 and 1/2 years. Mrs. Maynard is survived by her husband, Lat Maynard, 2 sons, Lat, Jr., and D. J.; 3 daughters, Ida Pearl, Mildred Pauline and Mrs. Volla Maynard; one sister, Mrs. Ralph Lester, of Fort Gay, one brother, James F. Copley of the U. S. Army, in Italy. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Audra Lester, with burial in a cemetery near Genoa. Big Sandy News, Mar 10,1 944

 

MOORE, Malissa (Newman)

Mrs. Malissa Pride Moore, 98, one of the county's oldest residents, died early Sunday morning at the home of a son, Lee Moore at Gallup. she had been ill since suffering a stroke a week earlier. Funeral rites were conducted Monday afternoon at the Moore home at Gallup and interment made in the McClure Cemetery there. Deceased was born at Fed, Floyd county, a daughter of Jack and Jane McCoy Newman. She had resided at Gallup for the past 40 years. Her husband, Noah Moore, died many years ago. She had been a member of the Baptist Church 45 years. Surviving are 4 sons, Jerry Moore, Chapman, Noah, Lee and John Pride Moore, all of Gallup and 2 sisters, Mrs. Rhoda Workman and Mrs. Eliza Burchett, both of Olive Hill. Big Sandy News, Mar 3, 1944

 

NEW, Sallie (Marcum)

Mrs. Sallie New, 34, native of Camp Creek, Wayne county, died Monday at the home of a brother, Lum Marcum at Chattaroy. She was a sister of Bill Marcum of this county, and was a daughter of Bill and Tennessee Marcum of Camp Creek, WV. Big Sandy News, Mar 3, 1944

 

NEWSOM, William

Pvt. William Newsom, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hesekiah Newsom of the mouth of Blaine near Catalpa, was killed in action in Italy Jan 21, according to a telegram received by the parents from the War Department last Thursday. Newsom entered service in 1942 and had been overseas several months. Big Sandy News, Mar 3, 1944

 

PACK, Gypsy (Thompson)

Mrs. Gypsy Pack, 52, widow of the late Mardia Pack, died Monday morning at the Pack home at Noris 4 weeks after suffering a stroke. Funeral rites were conducted Wednesday afternoon at the Pack Church on Little Blaine and interment was made in the Pack Cemetery. Deceased a daughter of Felix and Ella May Thompson, was born and reared at Noris. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church 36 years. Her husband, Mardia Pack, died in 1941. She is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Hobart Thompson of Noris and Miss Mary Lou Pack, at home, 9 sons, Roy Pack and Arnel Pack both of Mechanicsburg, OH, Arley and Edgel Pack, both of Woodstock, OH, Escom Pack, O'Bannon, OH, Graden and Ray Pack at home, George Pack, U. S. Army stationed Little Rock, Ark., Willis, U. S. Army stationed at Camp Blanding, FL; one sister, Mrs. Cleve Ward, Estill, WV and 5 brothers, Fred, Willis, Stamp, Graden Thompson, all of Noris, Dave Thompson, Jenkins, KY. Big Sandy News, Mar 10, 1944

 

PERRY, Esau

1872-1944

Esau Perry, 71, died at his home on Milum Creek, Wayne county, WV, Feb 29, after an illness of 5 months of tuberculosis. Mr. Perry was born in Wayne county, Dec 9, 1872, and had lived here all his life. He married Miss Polly Maynard, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Owen Maynard of Twelve Pole, 47 years ago. Mrs. Perry died Jan 22, 1941. He is survived by the following children, Hobert Perry of Delbarton, Owen Perry of Fort Gay, Melvin and Curtis Perry of Milum, Charles e. Perry of Columbus, OH, Cpl. Ance Perry of New Jersey, Sgt. Carl Perry, of Louisiana, Mrs. Gracie Maynard and Mrs. Lula Williamson, both of Dunlow; one brother, Melvin Perry of Man, a son, Jesse Perry, died Sep 1942. funeral services were held at the graveside Mar 3, by Rev. Andrew J. Perry with burial in the Copley Cemetery, near McComas. Big Sandy News, Mar 24, 1944

 

PETERS, Mary Elizabeth (Robinson)

Fort Gay, WV, Mar 1--Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Peters, 72, widow of the late Rev. Lewis G. Peters of Fort Gay route 1, died Tuesday afternoon at the Peters home on Mill Creek. Deceased, a daughter of the late Warren and Sarah Frasher Robinson, was born and reared on Mill Creek. She had been a member of the Methodist Church 46 years. Funeral will be conducted in the Peters Chapel on Mill Creek Friday afternoon at 2. Interment will be in the Peters family cemetery. Mrs. Peters is survived by 4 daughters, Mrs. Cecil Bartram, Mrs. Harlan Bartram, Mrs. Elwood Raines and Mrs. James B. Wells, all of Fort Gay, route 1, 3 sons, C. R. and Jack Peters, both of Fort Gay, route 1 and Noah Peters of Fort Gay and 6 sisters, Mrs. Lydia Wellman and Mrs. C. B. Wellman, both of Louisa, Mrs. Amanda Lycan, Mrs. Eliza Ferguson and Mrs. Isador Spears all of Fort Gay and Mrs. Cuzzie Peters, of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Mar 3, 1944

 

PRESTON, John Harper

1878-1944

Funeral rites for J. H. Preston, 65, retired merchant who died Wednesday of last week in Ashland, was conducted Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the home of a sister, Mrs. J. W. Akers of George Creek, with Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the Louisa Baptist church, officiating.  Burial was made in the Preston family cemetery across the river from Richardson.  A son of the late John McDonald Preston and Jane Borders Preston, pioneer citizens, Mr. Preston was born at Richardson Dec. 14, 1878.  He operated a general store there for a number of years and late was a merchant in Kenova, W. VA and Ashland, KY.  In recent years he had been employed by the Pump Engineering Company in Cleveland.  He retired two months ago.  Mr. Preston died suddenly of a heart attack at the home of a son in Ashland, Lindsey Preston. Besides the son he is survived by two sisters, Mrs. J. W. Akers, George Creek, KY, and Mrs. Betty Wallace, Richardson, KY, and a grandson, Henry McDonald Preston.  His wife, Mrs. Lora Childers Preston, died in 1925. Big Sandy News, Mar 10, 1944

 

RICE, Ronsford

Ronsford Rice, 23, son of D. A. Rice of Dennis, died at 1:30 Wednesday afternoon in a Louisa hospital after being found unconscious at dawn near his wrecked motorcycle on the Fort Gay-Wayne road a half mile from Fort Gay. Death was attributed to a fractured skull and shock. Henry Frasher, of near Fort Gay, found Rice early Wednesday morning lying unconscious near the highway, as he was enroute to Louisa. A passing truck brought him to Louisa hospital. The wrecked motorcycle was found nearby. Scene of the accident was on a stiff curve near where the Glenhayes road joins state route 37. Rice, it is believed, had lain there since about 11 p.m. Tuesday. Frasher said he heard the motorcycle engine stop at about that time. Rice is survived by his father, 2 sisters, Mrs. Glen Jordan of route 1, Webbville, and Miss Charlotte Rice, at home, and 2 brothers, Bernard Rice of Columbus, OH and Ronald Rice at home. His mother, Mrs. Sarah Brainard Rice, died last October. Funeral for Rice will be conducted Saturday morning at 11 from the home of his father at Dennis. Big Sandy News, Mar 17, 1944

 

RICHMOND, B. F.

F. Richmond, 62 year old Inez merchant, died Thursday of last week in Memorial hospital, Huntington after a lingering illness. A member of a prominent Martin county family and a former resident of Kermit, Mr. Richmond had spent the last several months in Florida and became seriously ill while en route home. His death was ascribed to Brights Disease. Mr. Richmond was born in Martin county where his father, a native of the Tazewell section of Virginia, settled more than three quarters of a century ago. While a resident of Kermit, Mr. Richmond was a member of the firm of Richmond Bros. in the operation of a general store. The last four years he engaged in the hardware business in Inez. He was prominent in Masonic affairs as a member of Marion Hale Lodge No. 672 at Inez. Surviving are the widow, the former Miss Lucy Rouse, 2 children, Jack Richmond and Mrs. Della Kallaham, both of Inez, and the following brothers and sisters, W. B. Richmond, president of Inez Deposit Bank, Grover Richmond of Kermit, Mrs. Vernon Collinsworth of Inez, Rev. I. S. Richmond of Mt. Airy, NC, Dr. L. C. Richmond of Milton, WV, and Mrs. H. H. Williams of Kermit. Funeral services were conducted at the home in Inez Sunday afternoon. Burial was in charge of the Inez Masonic Lodge. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

 

ROBINSON, May (Hanson)

Fort Gay, WV, Mar 7--Mrs. May Hanson Robinson, 69, merchant and widow of the late Willard Robinson, died Saturday evening at her home on the Wayne road 5 miles east of Fort Gay. She had been ill a year. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon in the Spruce Lick Baptist Church near the home with the Rev. J. C. Hager of Louisa officiating and interment was made in the Hanson Cemetery. Deceased was born near Prichard, a daughter of David and Louverna Stewart Hanson. She had resided at Fort Gay, route 1, the past 40 years and had operated a general store for many years. She is survived by a cousin, Miss Cora Bryan, Buchanan, KY and several other distant relatives. Big Sandy News, Mar 10, 1944

 

ROSS, Gretta

The body of Miss Gretta Alice Ross, 20, native of Flat Gap, who died Monday night in Reynoldsburg, OH at the home of a cousin, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Griffith, was returned here Tuesday in the Curtright Funeral car and taken to Flat Gap for burial. Funeral was conducted Thursday at Flat Gap and interment made in the Ross Family cemetery there. Deceased was born and reared at Flat Gap, a daughter of the late Oscar and Jessie Williams Ross. She went to Columbus, four years ago and had made her home the past ten months at Reynoldsburg. She is survived by an aunt, Mrs. Lester Ross, of Waverly, OH, and five uncles, Noah, Mason and Mitchell Ross, all of Waverly, OH and Glen Ross of Flat Gap and Dewey Ross of Columbus. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

 

SALYER, James M.

1869-1944

James M. Salyer, who was born seventy-five years ago on the waters of Mud Lick, near Flat Gap, passed away at the home of his son, Ezra Salyers, Collista, on March 8. He had been in good health until a few weeks ago. On the morning of his death after he had eaten breakfast, he had sat down with his son and evidently suffered a stroke bringing instant death. His wife died several years ago and a daughter Mrs. Stella Blevins has also preceded him in death. Two sons, Ezra and John Logan, and a brother, Ben J. Salyers, Lawrence County, survive. Funeral services were conducted by the Preston Funeral Home, were held at the home, burial being made at Hager Hill cemetery. Big Sandy News, Mar 24, 1944

 

SCAGGS, Jesse Harmon

1860-1944

Jesse Harmon Scaggs, 83, a well known resident of Wayne, died suddenly of heart attack at his home Friday at midnight Mar 3. Mr. Scaggs had been ill for a few days but his condition was not considered serious and his death was unexpected. Funeral services were held at the Wayne Baptist Church with the Rev. U. S. Pinson officiating, assisted by Rev. H. V. Bennett. Burial was in the Wayne Cemetery. Mr. Scaggs was born on Blaine Creek, Lawrence County, KY, Jul 16, 1860, son of Squire Scaggs. He moved to Wayne county in 1878 at the age of 18 and spent the remainder of his life in this county. He married Alice Alberta Sanders of Rocky Mount, VA, Dec 24, 1884. His wife died on Dec 24, 1931. By profession Mr. Scaggs was a stonemason and supervised construction of the bridge abutments for the Norfolk and Western  Railway in building its line between Wayne and Dunlow. Mr. Scaggs was a member of the Wayne Masonic lodge, which awarded him a 50 year service pin last year. He was a member of the United Baptist Church of Wayne. He followed the career of Dr. B. R. Lakin of Fort Gay, pastor of the Cadle Tabernacle at Indianapolis, with interest and heard every sermon broadcast by Dr. Lakin until illness intervened a few days ago. Mr. Scaggs' death removed from Wayne one of the town's older citizens who during his lifetime was a helpful neighbor to those in distress and who never missed an opportunity to assist his fellowman in any way possible. Surviving are 2 sons, Attorney F. f. Scaggs of Wayne and Clyde Scaggs of Huntington, one sister, Mrs. John H. Smith of Kenova, and 4 grandchildren, James Franklin Scaggs, Ashland, Sgt. Bob Scaggs of the U. S. Marine at Parris Island, SC, and Margaret Alice and Jack Scaggs of Huntington. The Wayne Masonic lodge had charge of services at the graveside. Big Sandy News, Mar 17, 1944

 

SCOTT, Nancy (Elswick) Thompson

Mrs. Nancy Thompson Scott, 81, widow of the late John Scott of Ashland and a native of this county, died Friday at the home of a son, James R. Thompson. Funeral was conducted Monday in the Freewill Baptist Church in Catlettsburg with Rev. L. E. Colliver officiating and interment was made in Buchanan Chapel Cemetery near Zelda, this county. Mrs. Scott was born in this county, a daughter of the late Jack and Matilda Crank Elswick. She had been a member of the Catlettsburg Freewill Baptist Church 29 years. She had resided in Ashland since 1937. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

 

SHERMAN, Malissa (Lyons)

SHERMAN, Betty

SHERMAN, Lena

Five members of the family of Shir Lyons and 3 members of the family of Lewis Sherman, all former residents of the Keaton-Flat Gap section near the Lawrence- Johnson county line, were killed Sunday night in Ohio when a car in which they were returning from church was sliced in two by the Pennsylvania Railroad's "Spirit of St. Louis" at a crossing at West Jefferson, OH. Killed ware Mrs. Shir Lyons, 31, and her four children, Shirlene, 12, Inez, 10, Phyllis, 8, and John, 6, and Mrs. Lewis Sherman, 45, and her 2 children, Betty, 14, and Lena, 12.

 

Mr. Sherman, driver of the car suffered internal injuries and is a patient in Mt. Carmel hospital in Columbus. A fifth child of the Lyons', David, suffered cuts and bruises, but will recover. The bodies of Mrs. Lyon and her 4 children were brought back Wednesday morning on the Big Sandy passenger train and taken from Paintsville to the Keaton section for burial.

 

The bodies of Mrs. Sherman and her 2 children were buried at Otway, OH near Portsmouth. The families were enroute home Sunday night from church, after finding services were not scheduled when the fast-flying Pennsylvania passenger train crashed into the Sherman auto at a crossing, snuffing out the lives of 8 of its 10 passengers. Mr. Sherman was driving the car he had obtained it the day before in a trade with Mr. Lyons. Mr. Lyons and Mrs. Sherman were brother and sister. Mr. Lyons probably escaped death when he declined to accompany the families to church services at Lilly Chapel, near West Jefferson.

 

The Lyons family lived near Rome, Franklin county, OH, having moved from the Flat Gap section of Johnson county some time ago. Mr. Lyons, a son of the late Clabe Lyons of Flat Gap, served as mail carrier from Flat Gap to Paintsville for several years before moving to Ohio. His wife, was Nellie McKenzie, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John McKenzie, who now resided at Keaton. Mrs. Lyons was born and reared on Keaton. Mrs. Sherman was the former Miss Malissa Lyons, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clabe Lyons of Flat Gap. Her husband, Lewis C. Sherman, was born and reared at Relief, Morgan County. Mr. Sherman, a Baptist minister, has been employed as a crane operator in the Curtis-Wright plant in Columbus for several months and moved from Portsmouth to Columbus in January of last year.

 

Shir Lyons has 3 brothers, Luke Lyons, of Blaine, Willie Lyons of Portsmouth, and Ferd Lyons of Flat Gap and 4 sisters, Mrs. Millard Conley and Mrs. Frankie Williams both of Flat Gap, Mrs. Herbert Ferguson of Relief and Mrs. Millard Ferguson of Terryville.

 

Mrs. Lyons is survived by 2 brothers, one of whom is William McKenzie of Hilliards, OH and four sisters, and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John McKenzie of Keaton.

 

Mrs. Sherman, besides her husband and her brother, is survived by 3 other sons, Kendrick Sherman of near Rome, OH, Private Charles Sherman, with the U. S. Army at San Francisco and Seaman Second Class Lee Sherman, with the U. S. Navy at Baltimore and 3 daughters, Susan, at home, Mrs. Ruth Park, and Mrs. Marie Thomas of Peebles, OH. Big Sandy news, Mar 17,1944

 

SHORT, Margaret Ann

Margaret Ann Short, 13 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harlan Short, formerly of Louisa, died Mar 3 at their home at Girard, OH, where they had lived since moving from Louisa 13 months ago. The body was returned to this county and taken to Whitehouse for burial in the family cemetery. The child died of pneumonia that followed measles. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

  

SOWARDS, Henry Spencer

Henry Spencer Sowards, son of Rev. H. G. Sowards and a former resident of Louisa died Feb 19 in the Brooklyn Naval Hospital. Sowards, age 34, had been in the Navy over 2 years and had worked up through the ranks and had lately been selected for special schooling at Fort Schuyler, NY. He entered the hospital Friday for an operation of his knee which was injured last September when he was serving at Miami, FL. He died 3 days later. The Sowards family lived in Louisa for a few years moving here from Paintsville when Rev. Sowards was assigned as pastor of the M. E. Church South. Big Sandy News, Mar 10,1 944

 

THOMPSON, Curtis L.

Dr. Curtis L. Thompson, 65, retired dentist and well known citizen of Lawrence county, died Wednesday at  6 p.m. at his home at Blaine. He had been in failing health 2 years. The body will remain at the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa until Saturday morning when it will be taken to Wilmore, KY, for funeral there Saturday afternoon at 2 in the Methodist Church. The Rev. Dr. W. L. Clark of Wilmore will officiate, and interment will be made in the Wilmore Cemetery. Mrs. Thompson will be at the home in Louisa of her nephew, J. Walter Thompson, until the funeral party leaves for Wilmore. Dr. Thompson was born and reared at Webbville, a son of the late Martin Van Buren and Elizabeth Webb Thompson. After graduating from the Louisville College of Dentistry, he practiced in Wilmore for 10 years, and later in Ashland and Grayson. He was superintendent of the Methodist Sunday School while he resided in Wilmore. He retired 9 years ago and moved to Blaine and was superintendent of the Sunday school there at the time of his death. He had been a member of the Methodist church 36 years. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Amanda Walter Thompson, one daughter, Mrs. Robert Martin, Cincinnati, one sister, Dr. Emma T. Wurts, Ashland, and 2 brothers, W. L. and John M. Thompson, both of Webbville. Big Sandy News, Mar 24, 1944

 

WEBB, James Wesley

James Wesley Webb, 57, native of the Catt section of this county, died Wednesday in a hospital at Montgomery, WV. A former resident of Ashland, Mr. Webb moved to Powellton, WV and had worked for the Koppers Coal Co. The body was brought to Ashland and interment will be made in Rose Hill Burial Park there Saturday. Surviving are a son, Chester Webb, Helen, WV, a daughter, Mrs. Freida Webb, at home, 8 brothers, Lindsey, J. M., Lewis P., A. J., Howard Webb, all of Dennis, KY, M. E. Webb, Ashland, Cyrus Webb, Chillicothe, OH, and Lafe Webb, Cincinnati, 4 sisters, Miss Belle Webb, Mrs. Cora Thompson and Mrs. Martha Compton all of Ashland and Mrs. Hattie Neal of this county. Big Sandy News, Mar 10, 1944

 

WELLS, S. M. "Shade"

M. "Shade'" Wells, 67, native of Boones Camp, died Mar 16 at his home in Paintsville. Surviving are the following children: Mrs. Aaron Ward, Boones Camp, Mrs. French Holbrook, Jackson, KY, Mrs. Wilbur Daniels, Paintsville, Mrs. Malcolm Shearer, California, Mrs. Nancy Vicars, Chillicothe, OH, and Mrs. Sally Sparks, Van Lear, and the following brothers and sister, W. G. Wells, Jr., Boones Camp, E. R. Wells, Boones Camp, Atty., Z. Wells, Paintsville, Mrs. Paulina Robinson, Paintsville, and Mrs. Scott P. Duncan, West Van Lear. Big Sandy News, Mar 31, 1944

 

WILLIAMS, Raymond Harold

A telegram has been received by Mr. and Mrs. Albert Williams of Merrimac, form the War Department advising them of the death of their son, Pvt. Raymond Harold Williams, who was killed in action Jan 31, in Italy. Pvt. Williams had been stationed overseas since last October, a member of the Infantry division. He entered the Army on Mar 31, 1943 when he was 18 years of age and was given basic training at Camp Wheeler, GA. He attended Sprigg grade school before he finally discontinued school work. A brother, Thomas, is serving in the U. S. Marine Corps. He was home recently and after returning to his base at Parris Island, SC, was transferred to New River, NC. Other survivors include one sister, Hazel, and another brother, John Paul, both of Merrimac. Big Sandy News, Mar 17, 1944

 


 

APRIL 1944

 


ABBOTT, James A.

James A. Abbott, son of Judge and Mrs. J. H. Abbott, of Jenkins, formerly of Louisa, died April 18 at the home of Judge Abbott in Jenkins. Young Abbott became ill last December while attending a school in Milwaukee, WS, preparing for the engineer corps of the Seabees and had been in a hospital there until Easter Sunday when he was removed to Jenkins. Funeral and interment took place at Jenkins Thursday of last week. He is survived by his parents, Judge and Mrs. Abbott, his wife, the former Miss Ada Lee Pace of Jenkins, 2 daughters, and a sister, Miss Evelyn Abbott, who is in school at Virginia Intermonte at Bristol, VA. Abbott was a graduate of Jenkins high school and later attended Castle Heights Academy in Nashville. He had visited frequently in Louisa. Mrs. Alice Carey and Mr. and Mrs. P. O. See of Louisa and Dr. C. Y. Abbott of Ashland, attended the funeral in Jenkins. Big Sandy News, Apr 28,1 944

 

ADAMS, Donna Jean

Donna Jean Adams, 5 year old daughter of William H. and Esta Wellman Adams, of route 1, Rush, died in a Louisa hospital early Wednesday morning. The child had been ill a week and was admitted to the hospital Tuesday. Funeral was conducted Thursday afternoon at the Adams Cemetery on Daniels Creek, this county, with Rev. Leonard Adams of Irad officiating. Surviving besides the parents are a brother and sister and 3 grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Stant Adams of Irad and Mrs. Minnie Wellman of Rush. The Adams family moved from Irad, this county to Rush. Big Sandy News, Apr 21, 1944

 

ALLEN, Martha

Mrs. Martha Allen, 77, wife of Ed Allen and well known Louisa woman, died Friday shortly after noon at the Allen home here. She had been ill several months. Funeral service was conducted Sunday afternoon in the Curtright Funeral Home by Rev. William W. Moore. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery here. Mrs. Allen moved to Louisa with her family 26 yeas ago and for many years conducted the Allen Restaurant here. She had been a member of the Christian Church 33 years. Surviving besides the husband are 3 daughters, Mrs. Russell Brown, Ashland, Mrs. William Elam, Morehead and Mrs. Thomas Hockaday, Lanexa, VA; 4 sons,  by a former marriage, Bunn Wilson, Soldier, KY and Burl Wilson, Hamm, KY, and Charles Allen of Louisa and Clarence Allen, Columbus, OH. Her first husband, Abijah Wilson, died many years ago. Big Sandy News, Apr 14, 1944

 

ALLIN, Mar. Warren R.

Word was received here Saturday of the sudden death of Mrs. Warren R. Allin, native Louisan and former resident of Catlettsburg, who had lived in the Avalon Inn at Harrodsburg the past few years. Mrs. Allin's body was discovered early Saturday morning in her rooms at the Inn. Her death was attributed to a heart attack, and followed an illness of several months. Funeral service and burial was at Harrodsburg. Mrs. Allin will be remembered by many of the older residents as the former Miss Vinson, daughter of the late Zachariah C. and Josephine Broley Vinson of Louisa. She was born here and spent part of her childhood in Catlettsburg. Her husband preceded her in death. Big Sandy News, Apr 14, 1944

 

BOWEN, Blytha

Mrs. Bytha Bowen, 60, died at her home at Prichard, WV, Apr 14. Funeral services were conducted at the Smith Memorial church at Prichard by Rev. Ira Copley, with burial in the Davis Cemetery. Mrs. Bowen is survived by her husband, Allen Bowen, a daughter, Melba Mae Bowen of Cleveland, OH, 2 sons, Ross Bowen of Ironton, OH and Russell Bowen of New York in the armed forces. Big Sandy News, Apr 28,1 944

 

BOWSHIER, Marie Irene (Jordan)

Mrs. Marie IRene Bowshier, 32, wife of Earl Bowshier and a native of this county, died mar 29 at the Bowshier home at Mechanicsburg, OH. Besides her husband, she is survived by a son and daughter, Kenneth, 9, and Barbara, 5; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Arbie Jordan of Mechanicsburg, OH, 5 brothers, Mart Jordan of Urbana, OH, Herman, Raymond and Walter Jordan of this county. Funeral was conducted Saturday in the Davis & Byers Funeral Home in Mechanicsburg and interment was made there. Big Sandy News, Apr 7, 1944

 

BRANHAM, Charles Eugene

Coxswain Charles Eugene Branham, 23, of Glenhayes, WV, was killed in action while serving on a destroyer and was buried at sea, according to a message received from the Navy department 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. 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 employee. Big Sandy News, Apr 14, 1944

 

CALDWELL, Joe

Joe Caldwell, 66, farmer and painter of the Webbville section, died Monday at his home on route 1, Webbville. He had been ill a year. Funeral was conducted Thursday morning at the home with Rev. Jack Perry and Rev. Cecil Daniels officiating. Born in Virginia, Mr. Caldwell came to this county when a young man and had resided in the Webbville section the past 46 years. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Della T. Caldwell; 3 daughters, Mrs. Sam Young, Columbus, OH, and Mrs. Calvin Blevins and Mrs. Nannie Holbrooks, both of Webbville, 2 sons, Deek Caldwell, Plain City, OH and Troy Caldwell, route 1, Webbville, a sister, Mrs. Jennie Prince of Cherokee and a brother, Kenneth Caldwell of Houckville. Big Sandy News, Apr 14, 1944

 

COLEGROVE, Helen Frances

Suffering severe burns late Thursday of last week when her clothing caught fire from an open grate at the home of her uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred White of Bear Creek, 3 year old Helen Frances Colegrove, daughter of James Nathan Colegrove and the late Flora Lawson Colegrove, died enroute to an Ashland hospital. Surviving are the father, a sister, Phyllis Gene Colegrove, and a half sister, Lora Elizabeth Colegrove, the maternal grandmother, Mrs. Lillie Lawson of Ashland. The body was removed to the Kilgore-Collier Funeral Home in Catlettsburg and was taken to the residence of the father, James Colegrove of Chadwick's Creek, Boyd County. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at 2 in the Grassland church on Bear Creek with burial following in the White family cemetery. Big Sandy News, Apr 7, 1944

 

COLLINS, Virginia (Potter)

The body of Mrs. Virginia Potter Collins was returned to Akron, CO for funeral from Ventura, CA where she had made her home the past 12 years and where she passed away Mar 23 in a hospital there after being critically ill with a heart ailment for 2 weeks. Surviving are her husband, A. B. Collins, recently discharged from the Army, her mother, Mrs. L. E. Roberts of Akron, 4 brothers, W. O. of Denver, CO, James, E. of Peetz, CO, H. G. of Akron, CO and Lacy M. of Camp Lee, VA; and a sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Fabion of Sterling, OH. Her father, Marion Potter died 10 years ago. She was a granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Potter of Catalpa and had visited with her parents, their relatives in the mouth of Blaine section several years ago. Big Sandy News, Apr 7,1944

 

CRABTREE, Jack

Jack Crabtree, 62, farmer of near Louisa, died shortly before noon Saturday at his home a mile below Louisa. He had been ill four months of a heart ailment. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon in the First Baptist Church in Louisa with Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. William W. Moore officiating and interment was made in the Crabtree cemetery below Louisa. The Louisa Lodge I. O. O.F. Lodge conducted its ritual at the interment. Mr. Crabtree, a son of the late Smith and Martha Whitt Crabtree, was born and reared on the Crabtree farm below Louisa and had spent all of his life there. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Sylvia Webb Crabtree, one son, John J. B. Crabtree, at home, 2 sisters, Mrs. Pete Blankenship, Louisa and Mrs. Phoebe Lee, Grundy, VA, and 2 brothers, Sam Crabtree, Springfield, MO and Smith Crabtree, Charleston, WV. Big Sandy News, Apr 21, 1944

 

DOTSON, Richard W.

Richard W. Dotson, 3 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Dewey Dotson who moved to Louisa recently from Freeburn, died Wednesday at 6:45 p.m. in a Huntington hospital of diphtheria. The child became ill Monday and was taken to the hospital Wednesday afternoon. Private funeral rites will be conducted at the Dotson home on Sycamore street here Friday afternoon with Rev. Hager officiating and interment will be in the Pine Hill Cemetery. Surviving besides the parents are a sister, and 2 brothers, and 3 grandparents, Mrs. Polly Kearns of Louisa and Mr. and Mrs. Stonewall Cline of Freeburn. The Dotson home had been quarantined and all contacts advised to visit their family doctor, the health department reported. Big Sandy News, Apr 14, 1944

 

GRAVES, Sarah (Waller)

Mrs. Sarah Waller Graves, 33, wife of Albert L. Graves and native of this county, died Mar 28 at her home at Beltsville, Md. The body was returned to Louisa Friday and lay in state at the Curtright Funeral Home until 12:30 Saturday when it was taken to Clifford where funeral rites were held at 2:30 at the Branham cemetery. Mrs. Graves was born and reared at Clifford, a daughter of the late James Waller and the present Mrs. Mittie Hughes Waller. She had resided in Washington, D. C. for 10 years prior to moving to Maryland a year ago. Besides the husband and mother, she is survived by 2 brothers, John Waller, Fort Gay, WV and U. G. Waller, Beltsville, MD. Big Sandy News, Apr 7,1 944

 

HAMM, Genoa (Burchett)

1854-1944

Genoa Burchett Ham was born to Calvin and Mellie Chaffin Burchett on Big Blaine the year of 1854. She was converted and baptized when a girl of 15 years of age in the Freewill Baptist church and lived a very devoted Christian life until God called her home. To known her was to love her for she was a real saint of God. She departed this life Tuesday, Apr 11, 1944, age 99 years. She was united in marriage to Isaac E. Ham of Willard, Carter county, when she was near 26 years old. To this union were born 5 children, 3 sons and 2 daughters, Charlie Ham, Louisa, KY, Fred Ham, Columbus, OH, Mrs. Gracie Ball, Adams, KY, Mrs. Victoria Ball, Columbus, OH. She leaves to mourn her loss 2 sons and 2 daughters, 17 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, one brother, Milton Burchett, 2 sisters, Mrs. Anna Roberts and Mrs. Eliza Carter of Adams, KY and a host of relatives and friends. She will be sadly missed for she had a smile and kind word for every one and was loved by the whole community. Big Sandy News, Apr 21, 1944

 

HENSLEY, Delbert

Delbert Hensley, 20, of Bedford, IN, a son of the late Roy Hensley, who was a native of Louisa, was killed in action somewhere in the South Pacific war zone on Mar 24, according to a telegram from the boy's mother received by Mrs. Fay H. See, his aunt, this week. Hensley had been overseas one year. He is a grandson of C. E. Hensley of Crum, WV, formerly of Louisa. His father died 2 years ago. His mother, Mrs. Ella Hensley lives in Virginia. Big Sandy News, Apr 21, 1944

 

HUGHES, Wayne

Wayne Hughes, 42, of Cadmus, died Apr 20 in a hospital in Lexington. The body was returned to this county and funeral was conducted Sunday morning at 10 at the home of a brother, John Hughes at Cadmus with Rev. Fred Vanhorn officiating. Interment was made in the Hughes family cemetery at Yatesville. Deceased was a son of the late James and Mellie Marcum Hughes and was born and reared at Yatesville. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Hazel Cooksey Hughes, 5 sisters, Mrs. Jay Saulters and Mrs. Sarah Chaney, both of Mahan, WV, Mrs. George Workman, Yatesville, Mrs. Mary L. Adkins, Louisa, Mrs. Lora Kitchen, Gladys, and 8 brothers, Gabe Hughes, Ashland, Walter and Ora Hughes, Mahan, WV, James and Woodrow Hughes, Yatesville, Homer and John Hughes, Cadmus, and Robert Hughes, U. S. Army stationed in India. Big Sandy News, Apr 28, 1944

 

KIBBY, Mary Geneva (Blevins)

Mrs. Mary Geneva Kibby, 20, of Franklin Furnace, OH, and a native of this county, died Friday in Mt. Logan sanitarium, in Ohio where she had been a patient since Jan 12. She was born in this county, Dec 9, 1923, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Blevins and moved to Ohio with her family when quite young. Her mother, Eassie Wright Blevins, died in 1936. Big Sandy News, Apr 28, 1944

 

MASSIE, John

Fort Gay, WV, Apr 12--John Massie, 73, well known citizen of the Hurricane Creek section on Prichard route 1, died Saturday at his home. Funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon at the Massie cemetery near the home with Rev. Freelin Akers officiating. Mr. Massie, a son of the late James and Polly Perry Massie, was born and reared on the farm where he died. He had been a life long member of the Methodist Church. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Stina Hursey Massie, a son, James Massie, Prichard, a daughter, Mrs. William Skeens, Prichard and a brother, Fred Massie, Prichard. Big Sandy News, Apr 14, 1944

 

MATTOX, James

James J. Mattox, 20, farmer of Kaylong, WV was instantly killed Sunday afternoon 2 miles below Fort Gay when he was struck by N & W passenger train No. 16 eastbound from Cincinnati to Bluefield. Mattox and his wife were walking the railroad to Fort Gay from the home of Mrs. Mattox's sister, Mrs. Oliver Mounts below Fort Gay, where they had been visiting. At the approach of a westbound freight they stepped onto the westbound track.  Passenger train No. 16 approached shortly afterward on the east bound track and Mrs. Mattox stepped off but Mr. Mattox for some reason did not. A rod on the front of the passenger train ran through his body and held him in front of the engine until it could be stopped about a half mile from the scene of the accident. Mrs. Mattox, the former Miss Opal Crabtree of Webbville, route 1, was married to Mr. Mattox four months ago. They had spent a few days in this county visiting her mother, Mrs. Eva Crabtree of the Catt section, and then had gone to the Mounts home for a brief visit before returning home. Mattox's body was taken in the Curtright funeral car to the home of his mother, Mrs. Alice Mattox at New Haven, WV where funeral and burial took place Tuesday. Big Sandy News, Apr 7, 1944

 

MILLER, Minyard

Minyard Miller, 65, died Thursday night of last week, at his home at Charley. Funeral was conducted at the home with Rev. William W. Moore officiating and interment was made in the Judd Cemetery near Noris. Mr. Miller was born at Charley a son of the late Allen H. and Emma Thompson Miller. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Amanda Miller, 2 sons, Homer Miller in the U. S. Army in California and Edgel B. Miller, U. S. Army in England; and 2 brothers, Bascom Miller of Charley and Charles Miller of Accoville, WV. Big Sandy News, Apr 7, 1944

 

NORRIS, Emma (Hutchison)

Mrs. Emma Hutchison Norris, 80, well known and respected resident of Fallsburg, died early Sunday morning at her home Sunday morning after a month's illness of a heart ailment. Mrs. Norris was the widow of the late George W. Norris, who died 27 years ago. She was born and reared at Fallsburg, a daughter of the late Vinson and Susan Lakin Hutchinson, pioneer citizens. Funeral rites were conducted Tuesday afternoon at 2 at the Savage Memorial Methodist Church in Fallsburg with Rev. C. L. Neff and Rev. Dave Hewlett officiating. Interment was in the Hutchinson family cemetery at Fallsburg. She had been a member of the Methodist Church 61 years. A large crown attended the rites. Surviving are a sister and brother, Mrs. Eliza Coyler and L. N. Hutchinson both of Fallsburg. Big Sandy News, Apr 21, 1944

 

OWSLEY, Sally (Foley)

Mrs. Sally Foley Owsley, 87, widow of Floyd Owsley, died Thursday of last week at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Sam Courtney near Buchanan. Mrs. Owsley was born and reared in Floyd county. She moved to this county 30 years ago and had lived near Zelda most of the time. Her husband died 40 years ago. Funeral was conducted in the Buchanan Chapel Methodist Church with Rev. Ira Copley officiating and interment was made in the Buchanan Chapel Cemetery. Surviving in addition to the daughter are a son, Gardner Owsley of Zelda and a sister, Mrs. Lizzie Crider of Centerville, IN. Big Sandy News, Apr 7, 1944

 

PRESTON, Ide

1879-1944

Rev. Ide Preston, 64, well known minister merchant and farmer of near the mouth of Georges Creek, died suddenly at his home there Saturday evening. He had been in failing health since last September. Deceased was a son of the late James and Clista Ward Preston, pioneer citizens. He operated a general merchandise store above the mouth of Georges Creek and had been a minister of the United Baptist Church for 21 years. He also operated a large farm. Funeral was conducted Monday afternoon in the Little Ethel United Baptist Church on Georges Creek with Rev. German Walters and Rev. Charley Preston officiating. A large assemblage attended the rites. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lizzie Childers Preston, 4 daughters, Mrs. Arbie Murray, Beaver, OH, Mrs. Edgel Rowe and Mrs. Charles Thompson, both of Ashland and Mrs. Clarence Thompson of Catlettsburg, 2 sons, James C. Preston and Ira Preston, both of Georges Creek, 3 sisters, Mrs. Grant Short, Mrs. William Short and Mrs. Elbert Jennings, all of Meally, KY and 2 brothers, Lafe and Sam Preston both of Meally, KY. Big Sandy News, Apr 7, 1944

 

RUCKER, J. D.

D. Rucker, 69, farmer, died Friday night at his home at Clifford after an illness of 9 days. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon at 2 at the home with Rev. Rush Frazier officiating and interment made in the Fitzpatrick cemetery near Clifford. Deceased was born at Catlettsburg but had resided at Clifford the past 45 years. He had been a member of the United Baptist Church 29 years. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Della Fitzpatrick Rucker, one daughter, Mrs. Lloyd Webb, Glenhayes, WV, one son, Fred Rucker, 3 sisters, Mrs. Carrie Carter, Cincinnati, Mrs. Annabelle Sammons, Detroit, MI, and Mrs. Sarah L. Duty, Omar, WV and 2 brothers, R. D. Rucker, Milton, WV and E. A. Rucker, Meadows Creek, WV. Big Sandy News, Apr 28, 1944

 

SAMMONS, Jesse Willard

Jesse Willard Sammons, 28 years old died at his home in Williamson, Apr 10 after an illness of 2 weeks. He was the son of Mrs. Sarah Sammons of Matewan. His father, Henry Sammons, died 18 years ago. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Mrs. Nellie Pressley Sammons, and a step son, Roy Pressley; 3 brothers, Lou and Prentice of Logan, Pvt. Carlos Sammons, West Palm Beach, FL, 2 sisters, Miss Iola Sammons of Ohio and Mrs. Goldia Thompson of Fort Gay. Funeral services were conducted last Friday at Warfield, KY by Rev. Roy Hall with burial in a cemetery there. Big Sandy News, Apr 28, 1944

 

SEE, Basil

Fort Gay, WV, Apr 19--Basil See, 44, employee of the Republic Creosoting Company of Louisa for the past 2 years, died early Wednesday morning at his home in Fort Gay. He had been ill 2 weeks of complications. Deceased was a son of the late David G. and Hannah Darkas Wilson See and was born at Saltpetre, WV. He was reared in Fort Gay and had lived here most of his life. Funeral will be conducted at the Fort Gay Methodist Church at a time to be determined after word is received from a son in the Navy stationed at Camp Bradford, VA. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mary Spears See, a daughter, Miss Frances Joann, at home, a son, Seaman William Mack See, stationed at Camp Bradford, VA in the Navy, and by 6 sisters, Mrs. H. C. Salyers of Huntington, Mrs. J. H. Marcum of Huntington, Mrs. Bessie Compton of Fort Gay, Mrs. Ed Adkins of Fort Gay, Mrs. Walter Boyd of Logan, WV, Mrs. Freelin Peck of Logan and 2 brothers, Oscar See of West Salem, OH and Jerry See of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Apr 21, 1944

 

THOMPSON, Levi

Levi Thompson, member of a pioneer Webbville family, died at his home in the Webbville section Mar 29. He was a son of the late Martin V. and Elizabeth Webb Thompson and was the oldest brother of the late Dr. D. J. Thompson of Webbville and Dr. C. L. Thompson of Blaine. Funeral rites were conducted by Rev. Dave Sturgill of Ashland and interment was made in the family cemetery overlooking his home. He is survived by his wife, 13 children, 36 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, one brother, John M. Thompson of Webbville and one sister, Mrs. C. F.Wurts of Ashland. Surviving are his wife, Nancy Thompson, 13 sons, and daughters, Mrs. Ollie Pennington, and Arville Thompson, both of Ashland, Mrs. Naomi Johnson and Kenneth Thompson and Mrs. Talva Hunnicutt, all of Webbville, Vanzil Thompson of Sciotoville, OH, Edgar Thompson and Mrs. Mary Carter, both of Cincinnati, Mrs. Ada Gagoff, of Toledo, OH, Mrs. Gladys McDonald of Springfield, OH, Ernest Thompson of Washington Court House, OH, Mrs. Bessie Beggs of Toledo, OH and Earl Thompson of Springfield, OH. Big Sandy News, Apr 21, 1944

 

THOMPSON, Sarah (Sallie) (Thompson)

Mrs. Sarah (Sallie) Thompson, 72, widow of Johnson Thompson, and a native of this county, died Tuesday night at the home of a daughter, Mrs. C. C. Tussey in Ashland. She succumbed suddenly of a heart attack. Mrs. Thompson was born at Blaine, a daughter of Sam and Rettia Thompson, both native so this county. Her husband, died in 1921. The Thompsons formerly resided in Louisa and Mrs. Thompson was a member of the Louisa Methodist Church, South. She had resided in Ashland since 1926. Funeral rites will be conducted in Centenary Methodist Church, Ashland, Friday afternoon at 2. The body will be brought to Louisa for interment in Pine Hill Cemetery. Brief rites will be conducted at the grave here by Rev. William W. Moore about 4 p.m. Surviving in addition to her daughter, Mrs. Tussey of Ashland, are 2 other daughters, Mrs. G. G. Rowley of Ashland, and Mrs. T. J. Shannon of Detroit, MI, 2 sons, Ross Thompson of Williamson, WV, and Jack Thompson, U. S. Navy in foreign service and a brother, Lys Thompson of Sciotoville, OH and a sister, Mrs. Vina Berry of Stockdale, OH. Big Sandy News, Apr 21, 1944

 

WHEATLEY, Heber

Heber Wheatley, 56, son of Prof. J. B. Wheatley of Paintsville, was drowned Thursday of last week while fishing in Big Sandy river near the home of a cousin, Frank Wiley at Whitehouse. His body was not recovered for several hours. Wheatley, a civil engineer who lost a leg several years ago, toppled from the boat in which he was fishing. Three persons, Mrs. Wiley and her 2 small sons saw the tragedy, but he sank immediately. He attended Paintsville schools and was a graduate of the Sandy Valley Seminary and was one of this sections most widely read men. Besides his mother, he is survived by 3 brothers, James G. Wheatley and William Wheatley, both of Paintsville and Virgil Wheatley of Baltimore and a sister, Mrs. May Layne of Paintsville. Big Sandy News, Apr 28, 1944

 

WHEELER, M. H.

1865-1944

H. Wheeler, 78, well known resident of Blaine, died at his home there Saturday midnight. Mr. Wheeler, son of the late Stephen and Jemima Wheeler, had lived practically all of his life at Blaine. He was a member of the Jake Rice Masonic Lodge of Blaine and a member of the United Baptist Church for over 50 years. Funeral service was conducted Monday morning at the Castle Cemetery near Blaine where interment was made. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Artie Justice Wheeler; 2 daughters, Mrs. Clifford Lyon of Powell, OH and Mrs. Elmer Luster of Blaine, and 6 sons, W. H. Wheeler of Martha, Morton and Ossie Wheeler, both of Blaine, Darbam Wheeler, U. S. Army in England, Marvin Wheeler, U. S. Army at Camp Atterberry, IN, and Ottis Wheeler of Blaine. Big Sandy News, Apr 7, 1944

 

WHEELER, Mrs. Sam

Mrs. Sam Wheeler, 64, widely known Huntington resident and member of a prominent Lawrence County family, died Thursday at her home in Huntington. Mrs. Wheeler was born and reared in the Yatesville section, a daughter of the late Rev. and Mrs. J. French Rice. She attended college in Virginia and went to Huntington in 1903.  She was an active member of Johnson Memorial Methodist Church in Huntington and was prominent in the affairs of the Pythlan Sisters and the auxiliary of the Jas. Russell Camp No. 3 United Spanish War Veterans. Surviving besides her husband are 2 brothers, Matthias Rice of Buchanan and James rice of Stone. Big Sandy News, Apr 14, 1944


 

MAY 1944

 


 

ADAMS, Bill

Bill Adams, farmer citizen of this county, was injured in the Utility Coal Mines at Martin, Floyd County, Saturday night, May 6th, and died early Sunday morning in a Martin hospital. His occupation had been coal mining for the past 16 years and the last year he spent working for the Utility Coal Co. He was the son of Mrs. Elizabeth Adams and the late Douglas Adams of Irad. He leaves a wife, Mrs. Vivian Fannin Adams; a fifteen year old son, Elmer Clay; his mother and five sisters, Mrs. John Adams, Louisa, Mrs. Gernie Adams, Catlettsburg, KY, Mrs. Homer Campbell, Charleston, WV, Mrs. Peter Albertson, Chicago, IL, and Mrs. Harlan Wellman, Irad, KY; and two brothers Seymour Adams, Torchlight and Fred Adams of McDowell. Big Sandy News, May 19, 1944

 

AILIFF, Howard

Fort Gay, WV, May 23--Mrs. Goldie Reed Ailiff, who recently received a telegram from the War Department that her husband, Howard Ailiff was missing in action in the Mediterranean area, received another telegram last week that he was killed in the performance of his duty and a letter would follow later giving details. Ailiff has 2 children, Phyllis, 7, and Phillip, 5. He is the son of Mrs. Sadie Ailiff and the late Lewis Ailiff of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, May 26, 1944

 

BERRY, Andrew

Andrew Berry, 70, well-known farmer of the Adams section, died Saturday at his home at Dry Ridge. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon at the home and interment was made in the Berry family cemetery at Dry Ridge. Mr. Berry was born and reared at Dry Ridge, a son of the late Isaac and Emmaline Moore Berry, pioneer citizens of the county. Mr. Berry was never married. He is survived by a sister, Mrs. John Curnutte of Columbus, OH, and 2 brothers, William H. Berry of Ashland and Sam Berry of route 2, Louisa. Roscoe Berry, clerk in the Louisa post office, is a nephew of the deceased. Big Sandy News, May 12, 1944

 

BROMLEY, Belle (Walker)

1861-1944

Mrs. Belle Walker Bromley, 83, widow of the late Sam Bromley of Louisa, died Monday morning at the home of a daughter, Mrs. W. B. Trevillian in Huntington and the body will be brought to Louisa for interment in Pine Hill Cemetery this afternoon (Thursday). Funeral service will be conducted in the Klingel-Carpenter Mortuary in Huntington this afternoon at 2 with Rev. C. G. Billups of Point Pleasant and Rev. L. E. Gould, pastor of the Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church in Huntington, officiating. Mrs. Bromley was born in Wayne county, WV in 1861, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. Walker and was reared in Fort Gay. She resided most of her life in Louisa where her late husband conducted a store in his later years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church here. She moved from Louisa about 12 years ago. Surviving are 5 daughters, Mrs. W. B. Trevellian and Miss Sue Bromley, both of Huntington, Mrs. George B. Skene, of Point Pleasant, WV, Mrs. George W. McAlpin, of Charleston, WV, and Mrs. W. H. Boatright of Benham, KY and 2 sons, C. B. Bromley of Louisa and J. M. Bromley of Huntington. Big Sandy News, May 26, 1944

 

CHAPMAN, Sheridan

Sheridan Chapman, aged about 65, native Lawrence countian, was killed instantly by an automobile at Long Beach, CA Sunday night relatives here were informed Monday. Further details of the accident have not been learned here. Mr. Chapman, a son of the late John R. and Joanah Booth Chapman, was born and reared on Lick Creek near Louisa and is a brother of William Chapman of Louisa. He had been away from Lawrence county the past 20 years. At the time of his death he was employed in a ship yard at Long Beach. The body was shipped to Detroit, MI for interment. He has 2 sons and 4 daughters and some of them reside in Detroit. Also surviving are 4 sisters, Mrs. Anolda Vanhoose, Georges Creek, KY, Mrs. William H. Moore, Wayne, WV, Mrs. C. B. Hill, Huntington, WV, and Mrs. Cora Booth, Baltimore, MD and 2 brothers, William Chapman of Louisa and Edgar Chapman of Alberta, Canada. Big Sandy News, May 26, 1944

 

CHILDERS, Will

1883-1944

Will Childers, 60, farmer and well known citizen of Richardson, died Saturday at 12:00 a.m. at his home.  Funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon in the Baptist church at Richardson with Rev. German Walters and Rev. Charles Preston officiating. And interment was made near Richardson.  A large assemblage attend the rites. Mr. Childers was born and reared at Richardson, a son of the late Mose and Wilda Boyd Childers, pioneer residents.  He had been a member of the United Baptist church 29 years. Surviving besides the wife are four daughters, Mrs. Raymond Parks, of Louisa, Mrs. Ira Preece of Catlettsburg, and Misses Moteene and Myrtle Childers both at home, three sons, Pvt. Virgil Childers, station at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Clyde Childers, Mechanicsburg, Ohio, and Seaman 1-C J. M. Childers in the Mediterranean, and three sisters, Mrs. Price Childers, of Richardson, Mrs. Jennie Branham of Emma, KY and Mrs. Elsie Gobel of Prestonsburg. Big Sandy News, May 5, 1944

 

COPLEY, Thomas A.

Thomas A. Copley, 75, member of a pioneer Wayne county family, succumbed to a sudden heart attack at 9 Thursday morning of last week at his home near Webb. A son of William (Dicky) Copley, of the Webb section, decedent was one of a family of 25 children, 15 boys and 10 girls. Apparently in usual health Mr. Copley worked on his farm Wednesday and was digging post holes Thursday morning when the seizure occurred. He was a member of the Methodist Church and highly regarded in his community. Funeral services were conducted at the late home Friday afternoon by the Rev. Ballard Copley of Tripp and burial was in the family cemetery near Webb. Surviving in addition to the widow are 3 sons and 2 daughters, J. H. Copley of Williamson, WV, W. H. Copley, Luther Copley and Dove Marcum of Webb, and Mrs. Sylvia White, of Crum. Among the surviving brothers and sisters are Mitchell Copley, Henry Copley and Harmon Copley of Webb, L. Copley of Nolan, Logan Copley and W. H. (Buddy) Copley of Chattaroy, Albert Copley of East Lynn, George Copley of Whalen, KY, Mrs. Alice Davis of Goodman and Mrs. Katherine Jarrell of Williamson. Big Sandy News, May 5, 1944

 

CRABTREE, Judith Lou

Born in a Louisa hospital an hour after her father had left Louisa with a group of 22 for induction into the Navy, Judith Lou Crabtree died 7 hours later here. She was the daughter of Hubert L. and Helen Zirkles Crabtree of Louisa. The father, carrier of a star mall route of Louisa, left Wednesday morning at 6 for Louisville for induction into the Navy and the child was born an hour later. Funeral was conducted Thursday morning at the Bussey Cemetery at Busseyville. Surviving besides the parents are a brother and a grandfather. E. E. Zirkles of Huntington. Big Sandy News, May 12, 1944

 

FOX, Martha (Hunt)

Fort Gay, WV, May 1--Mrs. Martha Fox, 78, wife of Dan M. Fox, died Friday at the Fox home on Mill Creek 7 miles from Fort Gay. Funeral was conducted Saturday afternoon at the Thompson cemetery on Mill Creek with Rev. Luther Hardwick officiating. Deceased was born in Pike County, KY, a daughter of Mose and Rebecca Runyon Hunt. She had lived on Mill Creek the past 63 years and was a member of the Baptist church. Surviving besides the husband are 2 daughters, Mrs. Garlan Thompson of Glenhayes, WV and Mrs. Ollie Copley of Logan, WV and 3 sons, John W. Holt of San Francisco, Emery Pack and Emmett Pack, both of route 1, Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, May 5, 1944

 

JOHNS, Virginia (Wilson)

Mrs. Virginia Wilson Johns, 64, died Tuesday morning at 3 at her home on Boone Street here of a sudden heart attack. Funeral rites will be conducted in the Louisa Baptist Church Thursday afternoon at 2:30 with Rev. W. K. Wood of Ashland, officiating. Interment will be made in Pine Hill Cemetery here. The body will lie in state in the church an hour before the services. Mrs. Johns was born at Radnor, WV, a daughter of Elbert and Elizabeth May Wilson. She moved to Louisa 55 years ago and had resided here since. Mrs. Johns had been a member of the Louisa Baptist Church 30 years. Surviving are 5 daughters, Mrs. C. L. Curry, Sylvania, GA, Mrs. Max Crabtree, Albany, OH, Mrs. Theodore Hudson, Ashland, KY, Mrs. Blaine Lewis, Youngstown, OH and Miss Elizabeth Johns at home, one son, Tech. Sgt. James H. Johns in England, and 4 sisters, Mrs. C. F. See, Jr. and Mrs. W. H. Burk, both of Louisa and Mrs. Walter Carr of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, May 19,1944

 

MCCANN, Nora (Wilson)

Mrs. Nora Wilson McCann, 66, native of this county, died Tuesday at the home of a son, Burtram M. McCann of Ashland. Deceased was a daughter of Mordici Wilson and Mrs. Vashti Jarrell Wilson  and was born in this county. She had resided in Ashland the past 8 years. Surviving are 3 sons, Burtram M. and Jennings McCann of Ashland and Ray McCann, U. S. Navy, a daughter, Mrs. D.J. Chapman of Detroit, a sister, Mrs. Ida Castle of Drift, KY, 3 brothers, Harrison and Marion Wilson of Louisa and George Wilson of Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, May 26, 1944

 

MCKEE, W. J. (Uncle Billy)

J. (Uncle Billy) McKee, 86, who served for 58 years as a conductor on the Eastern Kentucky Railway that formerly ran to Webbville, died Sunday at his home in Greenup. He retired when the equipment and right of way of the E. K. Railway were secured by the C & O several years ago. Mr. McKee, one of Greenup county's most progressive citizens, was president of the Union Grocery Co. of Greenup, a member of the board of the Commercial Bank of Grayson, a Mason, and a Methodist. He had served as member of the Greenup city council and the Greenup school board. Funeral was conducted Tuesday at the home in Greenup. Big Sandy News, May 26, 1944

 

NUNNERY, Sherman

Sherman Nunnery, 71, former Betsy Layne merchant who had resided in this county the past 12 years, died Monday shortly before noon at his home on the Mayo Trail 4 miles below Fallsburg. Funeral rites were conducted Thursday morning at the home of a sister, Mrs. J. H. Loar at Betsy Layne with Rev. Stratton officiating and interment made there. Mr. Nunnery was born in Pike county, a son of Thomas and Rebecca Maynard Nunnery. He lived at Betsy Layne for many years and conducted a general merchandise store there. The family moved to a farm near Fallsburg 12 years ago. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Alice Skaggs Nunnery, 3 sisters, Mrs. J. H. Loar and Mrs. Will Crum, both of Betsy Layne, and Mrs. Thomas Deskins of Oak Hill, OH and one brother, M. H. Nunnery of Oak Hill, OH. Big Sandy News, May 5, 1944

 

SARGENT, Mrs. L. W.

The body of Mrs. L. W. Sargent, 63, who died Thursday of last week at the home of her son, Leonard Sargent in Sellersburg, IN, was returned to Louisa, their former home and funeral and interment was here Sunday. Mrs. Sargent, who had been in failing health for 2 years, had been bedfast since suffering a stroke last December. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon in the Curtright Funeral Home here with Rev. H. J. Francis of Cincinnati and Rev. L. M. Rogers, pastor of the Louisa Methodist Church officiating. A large assemblage attended the rites. The floral offering was profuse and beautiful. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery here. The Sargent family lived in Louisa from 1900 to 1937 and Mrs. Sargent was a member of the Louisa Methodist Church. The family moved to Central City, KY in 1937 and later to Sellersburg, IN. She had many friends here who were shocked to hear of her passing. Mrs. Sargent was born and reared at Marietta, OH, a daughter of the late James and Anna Themister Congleton. She is survived by her husband, a daughter, Mrs. Roy Muncy of Williamstown, PA, and a son, Leonard Sargent of Sellersburg, IN, a brother, Bert Congleton, of Marietta, OH and 3 grandchildren, Jane Sargent Muncy and Evelyn Ann Sargent and L. W. Sargent, III. Big Sandy News, May 5, 1944

 

SHROUT, M. M.


M. M. Shrout, 46, C & O special officer and former resident of Louisa, was injured fatally Wednesday in an automobile-truck collision at Covington. Details of the tragedy were not available at the time The News went to press. Spencer Heaton, 44, also of Ashland, was injured. A brief newspaper report of the accident said a 17 year old Bromley young had been arrested on a manslaughter charged in connection with the death of Shrout. Shrout, a native of Salt lick, had been employed as  C & O special officer of the Ashland division between Ashland and Covington for several months, with headquarters in Ashland. For many years Shrout worked in the Blaine oil field. Later he moved to Louisa and resided here several years operating a local business. He was manager of the Louisa baseball club back in the late 30's and was popularly known here. Big Sandy News, May 12, 1944

 

SPEARS, Clyde

SPEARS, Maxine

Member of a Lincoln coroner's jury heard a mother sob out the details of how her husband shot and killed their 4 year old daughter after having threatened to "kill the whole family." The father and husband, Clyde Spears, 42, operator of a grocery store on Neal's Creek Road, himself was shot and killed by a sheriff's posse a short time after slaying the child, Maxine. Mrs. Spears told the jury her husband came home drunk from Stanford and threatened to kill her and the rest of the family. "Daddy, what did you bring me?" Maxine was quoted as asking her father when he came home. The witness said her husband replied, "I'm going to kill the whole family" She grabbed the child and started to run when the bullet was fired striking the child in the head. Big Sandy News, May 19, 1944

 

STONE, Francis Jones

Francis Jones Stone, 37, of Westerville, OH, native of Louisa, died Sunday in a Lexington hospital, and the body was returned to Louisa Monday in the Curtright funeral car. Funeral rites were conducted Wednesday afternoon in the Louisa Methodist Church with the pastor, Rev. L. M. Rogers, officiating and interment made in Pine Hill Cemetery here. Deceased was born in Louisa, a son of R. A. Stone and the late Jennie Jones Stone, and he was reared here. He was a painter and decorator by trade. Surviving are his father and stepmother, Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Stone of Louisa, his wife, Mrs. Flora Cassady Stone of Westerville, OH; one son Harold Richard Stone at home, 3 half sisters, Mrs. Haskell Price, Mrs. James Pickrell and Miss Mary Louisa Stone, all of Louisa and 4 half brothers,  Rev. Richard Stone of Seattle, WA, T. Sgt. Lucian Stone, at an Army base in South Dakota, Radio Operator Thomas O. Stone, at an Army base in California, and Porter Cam Stone of Louisa. Deceased was an associate member of the Methodist Church at Westerville, OH. Big Sandy News, May 26, 1944

 

THOMPSON, Susan (Webb)

1868-1944

Mrs. Susan (Webb) Thompson, 76, well known resident of the Brammer Gap section near Webbville, died Monday morning at 5:30 at her home. She had been ill 2 weeks following a heart attack. Deceased was born in 1868 near Willard, a daughter of Levi and Mary Riffe Webb, pioneer citizens. She had resided near Webbville all her life. Funeral was held from the home near Brammer Gap Wednesday and interment made in the Webb family cemetery at Webbville. Rev. Dave Hewlett, Rev. Lloyd Jordan and Rev. Jack Perry officiated. Deceased was the widow of the late Lafe Thompson. She is survived by 5 daughters, Mrs. Mont Adams, Cherokee, KY, Mrs. George Holbrook, route 2, Sunbury, OH, Mrs. Jay Yates, route 3, Louisa, Mrs. Lena Prince, Detroit, MI, and Miss Zella Thompson, at home. 2 sons, Jake and Henderson Thompson, both of Detroit, 2 sisters, Mrs. Milt Watson of Chillicothe, OH and Mrs. Martha Roberts of Louisa and 3 brothers, E. L. and George Webb, both of Webbville  and W. L. Webb of Ashland. Big Sandy News, May 26, 1944

 

WILLIAMSON, Garland

Garland Williamson, 36, one of two Jenny's Creek residents injured Apr 14 in a truck accident at Sandbar Bend, near Stepptown, died May 3 in a Williamson hospital. the other accident victim was Freddie Horn, 26, who died about 2 weeks ago in a Logan hospital where he was taken. Williamson and Horn were both well-known resident of the Crum section. According to information received here, the driver of the ton and a half truck was Gid Williamson, brother to Garland. The accident happened on a stiff curve and the theory is that the steering wheel became locked and caused the truck to overturn.

 

Gid escaped injury but his brother and Horn were brought to a Williamson hospital in a serious. Williamsons suffered a broken hip and Horn sustained a cerebral concussion. Horn was later taken to a Logan hospital where he remained unconscious. Williams was a farmer on Jenny's Creek and sometimes was employed as a truck driver. He was a native of Wayne county and the son of Wayne and Ida Marcum Williamson. Surviving are the parents, 5 children, Dolly, Nancy, Bobby, Billy and Benny, one brother, Gid, of Crum and 4 sisters, Mrs. Nannie Justice of Mice, Mrs. Gertrude Maynard, Mrs. Myrtle Lowe and Miss Selva Williamson, all of Crum. Funeral services were held Saturday at the Walnut Grove church with the Revs. Tom Messer and Henry Mullins in charge of services. Burial followed in Crum. Horn was buried on Jenny's Creek. He is survived by the widow and 3 children. Horn is said to have been employed at Stirrat, near Logan. Big Sandy news, May 12, 1944

 

YORK, Doc Jim

Doc Jim York, widely known doctor and farmer of the Three Mile section near Louisa, died suddenly of a heart attack at his home Wednesday evening. His lifeless body was bound slumped on the floor of the living room by his wife, when she returned from the home of a neighbor about 8 Wednesday evening. Mr. York had been in Louisa that day and had returned home on the afternoon train. He was in apparent good health, ate a hearty supper and was preparing to do the churning when his wife left for the neighbor's home. Deceased, a son of the late Glocus and Elizabeth Bates York, was born and reared near Louisa and had resided on Three Mile most of his life. He was a member of the Methodist Church. His first wife, Mrs. Cora Jane Thompson, died in 1913 and he was married in 1917 to Dora Belle Fraley, who survives. Also surviving are 5 daughters, Mrs. Lee Moore, Raceland, Mrs. Winfield Roberts, Long Beach, CA, Mrs. Clifford Anglin and Mrs. William Trockel, both of Cleveland, and Mrs. Esther Gilbert, of Prestonsburg, 9 sons, Chester in the Navy somewhere in the Pacific, James M. and Elmer, U. S. Army in England, Henry H., U. s. Army, stationed at Seattle, WV, Mont, Chester and Kenneth E. all of Louisa, Lawrence of Cleveland, OH, and Luther of Long Beach, CA; 4 brothers, Rev. Ern York, Will York, and G. W. York, all of Louisa and Nat York of Glenhayes, WV; and 2 sisters, Mrs. Thomas Walden, Louisa and Mrs. Dave Wellman of Williamson, WV and 33 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Funeral will be held at the See Cemetery on The Point if it is a clear day and at the home if it is rainy, at a time to be determined after word is received from the children. Rev. William W. Moore will officiate at the rites. Big Sandy News, May 26, 1944


 

JUNE 1944

 


 

BARTRAM, Sarah Elizabeth (Thompson)

1850-1944

Mrs. Sarah Elizabeth Bartram, 93, widow of the late Rev. W. C. Bartram and widely known citizen of Fort Gay, died Monday evening at the home of a daughter, Mrs. J. H. Blodgett in Fort Gay. She had been ill the past 2 and a half years. Mrs. Bartram, one of this section's oldest citizens, was born near Louisa, KY Dec 3, 1850, a daughter of Johnson and Sarah Akers Thompson. She had spent her entire life in and near Louisa and Fort Gay, and had been a member of the Methodist church since 12 years of age. Funeral rites will be conducted Thursday afternoon at 2:30 in the Fort Gay Methodist Church and interment will be made near Fort Gay. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Blodgett, a son, L. D. Bartram, of Huntington; 12 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and 18 great-great grandchildren. She was the mother of the late Dr. Bartram of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 

BENTLEY, Noah

Noah Bentley, 83, died Saturday morning at his home on route 1, Webbville after an illness of several years. He resided in the Bells Trace section. Deceased was born near Webbville, a son of the late Joe and Anna Justice Bentley, and had lived near Webbville all his life. Funeral was conducted at the home Sunday afternoon and burial made in the family cemetery. Deceased was a member of the Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Virginia Daniels Bentley and one sister, Mrs. Mittie Sexton of Princess, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 23, 1944

 

CAIN, Charles Cleon

The body of Cpl. Charles Cleon Cain, 27, well known Louisa young man who was killed by lightning Monday afternoon at Drew Field, Tampa, FL, has been shipped to Louisa and will arrive Friday morning on C & O Train 36. Cpl. Cain, a U. S. Army radio technician, stationed at Drew Field, was on of three persons at the field killed by lightning at 4:30 Monday afternoon, One was a corporal from Chattanooga and the other was a civilian employee. Details of the accident were not available in Louisa at the time the News went to press. The body will be accompanied her by Staff Sergeant James L. McCave, also of Drew Field. Funeral rites for Cpl. Cain will be conducted in the First Methodist Church here Sunday afternoon at 2:30 with Rev. L. D. Rounds and Rev. J. c. Hager officiating. The Louisa post American Legion will conduct its ritual at the burial in Pine Hill Cemetery. The body will lie in state at the church one hour before the funeral. The body will be removed from the Curtright Funeral Home to the home of Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Crutcher Friday. Cpl. Cain was the son of Walter L. Cain of Louisa and Mrs. Eula H. Ready of Lexington, KY. He was born and reared here and was one of Louisa's most popular young men, well liked by everyone. His wife, the former Miss Rosemary Crutcher, resides here with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Crutcher. Cpl. Cain was a graduate of the Louisa high school and later attended Transylvania University at Lexington. He had been in the Air Force approximately 16 months. His older brother, Cpl. Chester Cain, left his post at Camp Polk, LA, Tuesday morning to be here for the funeral. Another brother, Herbert Cain, resides in Cincinnati, W. T. Cain, Jr., Louisa businessman, and J. M. Cain, Huntington contractor are uncles of the deceased soldier. Also surviving are his grandmother, Mrs. W. T. Cain, Sr., of Louisa, an aunt, Mrs. Charles Shannon of Rossmore, WV, and 3 other uncles, A. V. Cain, Fred Cain and Russell Cain, all of Louisa. Deceased was a member of the First Methodist Church here. Big Sandy News, Jun 2, 1944

 

CHILDERS, Mrs. Arminta (Borders)

1865-1944

Mrs. Arminta Childers, 78, of Louisa route 1, died Thursday morning at 2 at her home 11 miles up the Mayo Trail. Funeral will be conducted at the home Saturday and interment will be in the Preston cemetery. Big Sandy News, Jun 2, 1944

 

COMPTON, Louisa (Clay)

Mrs. Louisa Compton, 87, native of this county, and a resident of Catlettsburg for more than 25 years, passed away Monday night at her home in Ashland. Death terminated an illness of more than 3 months. She was a native of Lawrence county and was the daughter of the late Evan and Rebecca Stitch Clay of Lawrence county, Her husband, preceded  her in death many years ago. She is survived by one sister, Mrs. Nancy Strother of Cincinnati and a number of nephews and nieces, among whom are the following, Frank B. Clay, Rev. Fred P. Clay of Ashland, Robert Clay of Cannonsburg, Jesse and Allen Clay, Bolts Fork and Millard Bolt of Bolts Fork. Also a niece Mrs. James Arnett of Ashland. Funeral was held at the Missionary Baptist Church in Catlettsburg at 2 Wednesday. The Rev. Sam Slone, pastor of the church conducted the funeral with burial taking place at the Bolt cemetery in Lawrence County. Big Sandy News, Jun 16, 1944

 

COOKSEY, James Landon

Private funeral rites were held on the Hutchinson cemetery on Catt Wednesday for James Landon Cooksey, 5 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Willard Cooksey, who died the day before at the home at Dennis following a 4 day illness of spinal meningitis. The child became ill last Friday and succumbed Tuesday at 2. The family had been quarantined and numerous contacts isolated by the health department. Rev. Loyd Jordan officiated at the private funeral and interment was made in the Hutchinson Cemetery near Dennis. Surviving are the parents, Willard and Emma Hutchinson Cooksey, 3 sisters, Mrs. Thurman Adams, of Dennis, and Misses Elouise and Shelba Jean at home; and 6 brothers, Seaman Roland Cooksey in the South Pacific, Pvt. Earl Cooksey stationed in Panama, and Lawrence B., Elwood, Estill and Dalton, all at home. Big Sandy news, Jun 9, 1944

 

DIALS, Edward E.

Edward E. Dials, 43, native of the Flat Gap section and for many years a resident of Portsmouth, died Jun 18 in a hospital at Athens, OH. Funeral was conducted at the home in Portsmouth Monday and the body was brought to Louisa and taken to Keaton for burial in the Kelley cemetery Tuesday. Mr. Dials was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. T. A. Dials of the Flat Gap-Keaton section. He was an employee of the N & W Railway for 21 years. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Myrtle Dials, a daughter, Gladys Dials of Elliott county, 2 sisters, Mrs. John McKenzie of Flat Gap and Miss Martha Dials of Portsmouth, and 4 brothers, William Dials of Plain City, OH, R. R. and Tillman Dials of Portsmouth and Paris Dials of Russell, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 23, 1944

 

DIAMOND, Donald

Penicillin, the "wonder drug", was used in Louisa for the first time Sunday in a futile effort to save the life of Donald Diamond, 12 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Diamond of Fallsburg. Suffering from an intestinal ailment (sometimes called summer complaint), the youth was brought to the local hospital several days ago, but his condition would not respond to regular treatments and a quantity of the drug was obtained from the new penicillin depot in Ashland Sunday. It failed, however, to save his life, and the youth succumbed Tuesday. Young Diamond was a student in the 8th grade at Fallsburg consolidated school and was a regular attendant at the Savage Memorial Sunday school in Fallsburg. He was well liked by everyone. Funeral was conducted Thursday morning in the Savage Memorial Methodist Church at Fallsburg with Rev. Dave Hewlett officiating, and interment was made in the Austin cemetery under direction of the Curtright Funeral Home. Surviving besides the parents are 2 sisters, Mrs. John Ben Patton and Miss Grace Diamond of Fallsburg; 2 brothers, Howard in the U. S. Navy at Great Lakes, IL and Ray Diamond, in U. S. Army over seas and one grandfather, John J. Jobe of Gladys. Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 

DIXON, Alonzo

1868-1944

Alonzo Dixon was born July 9, 1868, deceased June 06, 1944, age 75 years, 10 months, and 27 days.  He was the son of Isaac and Ella Margarett May Dixon.  Was married to Mary Hayes Jan. 09, 1890.  To this union were born the following children: Arla of Charleston, W.VA., Rolla and Hascal of Paintsville, Mrs. C.M. Davis of Winifred, KY., and Elmer of Staffordsville.  He has 19 grandchildren and one great grandchild.  Also survived by the following brothers and sisters, Mrs. Emma VanHoose of Tutor Key, Tobe Dixon of Staffordsville, Clark Dixon of Jackson, Oh, Guy Dixon of Wittensville, KY., Mrs. Warren M. VanHoose, of Frankfort, KY., Don Dixon of Catlettsburg, Mrs. James McKenzie and Mrs. J. Langley Preston of Wittensville. He was converted and baptized in the year 1911 and shortly after became a minister of the Freewill Baptist Church and lived a devoted Christian life until death.  He will be greatly missed but we  feel our loss is heaven's gain. Funeral services were held at the home Thursday afternoon by the Rev. Scott Castle of Paintville.   A large crowd was present at this service. Burial was made in the Dixon family cemetery by the side of his father who was buried there about 42 years ago. Big Sandy News, Jun 23, 1944

 

DOUGLAS, William

William Douglas, 19 years old, son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Porter, of Big Sandy, formerly of Fort Gay, died May 17 in a Welch hospital, following an illness of 36 hours. Death was attributed to complications. Surviving are the parents, one brother, Donald, 8, and one sister, Margaret, 15. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Coffman and Rev. Rose with burial in a family cemetery near Paintsville, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 9, 1944

 

FANNIN, Randall

Pfc. Randall Fannin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Sherman Fannin of Glo, Floyd county, natives of the Yatesville section of this county, was killed in action with the Fifth Army in Italy May 30 according to a telegram received by his parents recently. Pfc. Fannin enlisted in the Army while a senior in the Wayland high school and went overseas in June of 1943. He took part in the North African campaign, the invasion of Sicily, and the landing at Salerno, Italy. Later he participated in the violent battles at the Valturno river crossing and Cassina, and then was transferred to the Anzio beachhead. The Americans at Anzio started their drive in mid-May, broke out of the beachhead and advanced on Rome. It was in this drive that Pfc. Fannin lost his life. He was serving in an infantry division. His mother is the former Lula Derefield, a former Lawrence county school teacher and his father is a veteran of World War I and served in France. He is a nephew of Mrs. G. A. Hawes, of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jun 23, 1944

 

FERGUSON, Joe Lon

Joe Lon Ferguson, 3 years old son of Mr. and Mrs. Cassie Ferguson, natives of this county died Jun 7 at Springfield, OH of complications following mumps, measles and chickenpox. The body was returned to the Flat Gap section and buried in the Camat Cemetery. Funeral was conducted by Rev. Addie Ferguson of Relief and John Burchwell of Springfield, OH. Accompanying the family to Lawrence county were Mr. and Mrs. Luther Skaggs, Mr. and Mrs. John H. Skaggs and Mr. and Mrs. John Burchwell of Springfield. Big Sandy News, Jun 16, 1944

 

FITZPATRICK, D. J.

J. Fitzpatrick, 60, well known citizen of Clifford, died Thursday morning at 8 at the home of a daughter, Mrs. John Dameron of the High Bottom section of Louisa. The family moved from Clifford to Louisa a week ago. Mr. Fitzpatrick had been ill a year. The body was taken to Clifford today and funeral will be conducted Saturday morning at 10 at the Fitzpatrick cemetery where interment will be made. Mr. Fitzpatrick was born and resided at Clifford, a son of Ulysses and Elizabeth Maynard Fitzpatrick. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Minerva Frazier Fitzpatrick, 3 daughters, 5 sons, 4 sisters, Mrs. Dameron and Mrs. Andy New both of Louisa, Mrs. William Burk, of Potter and Mrs. Alber Crum of Glenhayes, WV and 2 brothers, James Fitzpatrick of Clifford and Shelton Fitzpatrick of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jun 2, 1944

 

FLEMING, Anna

Miss Anna Fleming, prominent Grayson resident, died Tuesday at her home. Born in Ohio she came to Willard at an early age and lived there until 2 years ago. She was a member of the Baptist Church and superintendent of the Sunday school at Willard for many years. Funeral was conducted at Grayson and burial made at Willard. Big Sandy News, Jun 16, 1944

 

FOWLER, Louisa C. (Davis)

Mrs. Louisa C. Fowler, 67, died at the home of a daughter Mrs. Garnet Staley of Prichard, May 27. Funeral services were conducted at the White's Creek Baptist Church Tuesday of last week, with burial in the Cyrus Cemetery. She is survived by her husband, Frank Fowler, 6 daughters, Mrs. Staley, Mrs. Ruth Goody of Wayne, Mrs. Nora Adkins and Mrs. Inez Shaffer of Huntington, Mrs. Agnes Lewis of Kenova, Mrs. Pearl Davis of Georgia, 4 sons, B. D. Fowler of Prichard, Mort and Scotty Fowler of the U. S. Army, Virgil Fowler of Indiana, 4 brothers, Joe Davis of Ansted, Lewis Davis of Pennsylvania, Zepiner Davis of Kentucky, and Harlan Davis of Stiltner; 26 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Big Sandy News, Jun 9, 1944

 

GREEN, Louverna (Pennington)

Mrs. Louverna Pennington Green, 83, widow of the late William M. Green of Webbville, died Saturday morning in a Louisa hospital where she had been a patient 9 days. Funeral rites were conducted Monday morning at the home of a sister, Mrs. T. L. Green at Webbville with Rev. William W. Moore of Louisa officiating. A large assemblage attended and interment was made at Webbville. Deceased was a daughter of the late John W. and Agnes Sturgell Pennington and was born and reared at Webbville and had spent probably all of her life there. She was a member of the Church of Christian Scientists. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. D. C. Flaugher of Huntington, one sister, Mrs. T. L. Green, of Webbville and 3 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jun 9,1944

 

HALL, Sula (Branham)

The body of Mrs. Sula Branham Hall, 44, wife of Sam Hall of Ohio, who died last Friday in a hospital at Jackson Center, OH, was returned to this county and taken to the home of her mother, Mrs. Thomas Branham near Clifford, where funeral was conducted Saturday. Mrs. Hall had been ill several months. She was born and reared on Rockcastle, a daughter of the late Thomas Branham and Mrs. Branham. The family moved to Ohio a few years ago. She is survived by the husband and a number of children, a sister, Mrs. William (Red) Thornsbury of Michigan and a brother. Big Sandy News, Jun 23, 1944

 

HELMS, Mattie (Goff)

Mrs. Mattie Goff Helms, 80, daughter of the late Felix W. and Frances Randle Goff and a former resident of Louisa, died in Memphis, TN, May 25. Mrs. Helms was born at Shellmound, Miss., May 29, 1864. She laced only 4 days being 80 years of age, yet she was not thought of as an old woman, by those who knew her. She took an active interest in all the affairs of life, and until cataracts covered her eyes, a little over a year ago, she kept up with the news of the war and all current events of the day. In March of this year she underwent an operation for the removal of the cataracts. In order to resume her reading, and while the eye operation was a success, other complications developed which she was not able to overcome. After the death of her mother, Mrs. Helms went to Louisa with her family and resided there for 16 years. At one time she was a teacher in the Lawrence county schools. She was twice married, her first husband, W. A Bounds, was a plantationist of Schlater, Miss. and after his death she married S. W. Helms, a conductor for the Yazoo and Mississippi Valley Railroad. He preceded Mrs. Helms in death May 16, 1941. She is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Willis Bounds DePratter and Miss Mary Helms of Memphis, and one grandson, Lt. W. a. DePratter of Ft. Benning, GA. Mrs. Helms was a sister of the late Mrs. C. F. See, Sr., of Louisa and has visited in Louisa and Lawrence county many times, where she still has many relatives and friends. Senator Ira W. See of Louisa and his sister, Mrs. C. T. Roberts of Birmingham, AL attended the funeral. Big Sandy News, Jun 9, 1944

 

HICKMAN, Carl R.

Technician Fifth Grade Carl R. Hickman, youngest son of George W. Hickman of Ashland, formerly of Meades Branch section of this county, who previously was reported wounded in action in Italy, is now officially reported killed. He was serving with a  brother, Sgt. Charles b. Hickman, at the time he was wounded, May 4. Sgt. Charles wrote his father that his brother died May 20 of a head injury from a wound. Carl R. Hickman enlisted Mar 15, 1941 and had served overseas 23 months, first in Ireland, then England, North Africa and Italy. He was 21, the youngest of 3 sons. A third brother, Pfc. Edmond B. Hickman, is serving in the New Hebrides Islands in the South Pacific. Other survivors are his father and a sister, Miss Allene Hickman, at home. Big Sandy News, Jun 23, 1944

 

ISON, Chilton

Pvt. Chilton Ison, 19,natvie of the Webbville section and son of Mr. and Mrs. William Ison now of route 5, Hillsboro, OH, was killed in a parachute jump at Fort Benning, GA recently according to a clipping sent to relatives here from a Hillsboro paper. According to information received from Pvt. Ison's commanding officer, he was electrocuted when his parachute hit a high tension wire. Mrs. Ison had received a letter from her son the day before he met his death, in which he said he had only one more jump to make before becoming a completely trained paratrooper. Deceased was reared near Webbville and was a grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. B. J. Webb of Caney, near Webbville. The body was returned to the home of his parents by a military escort and funeral was conducted at the South Liberty church with burial in the Hillsboro cemetery. Pallbearers were Air Force men from the Wilmington Glider Base. The Hillsboro American Legion Post conducted its ritual at the interment. Besides his parents, Pvt. Ison is survived by a brother, Glenn, at home and 4 sisters, Mrs. Eleanor Bonner of Winkler, OH, Mrs. Pauline Doval of Dayton, OH, Mrs. Clara McCune of Hillsboro and Mrs. Louisa Wardlow, at home. Big Sandy News, Jun 23, 1944

 

KAZEE, Ottis

1895-1944

Ottis Kazee, 49, native of Blaine, died May 28 at South Bend, IN following a year's illness of a heart ailment. Deceased was born at Blaine in 1895, a son of Frank and Mary Lester Kazee. He lived at New Boston, OH before moving to South Bend. He was a veteran of World War I. Surviving are his wife, Mabel, 3 sons, Cpl. Kenneth Kazee of the marines in the South Pacific, Earl Harrison and Richard Thomas, at home; 2 daughters, Esther Arlene and Susan Faye, at home; his father, Frank Kazee of Indiana, 2 brothers, Claud Kazee of Inglewood, CA, Clyde of Benton Harbor, MI and 3 sisters, Mrs. Brown of New Boston, Mrs. Frank Elliott of Canton and Mrs. Fred Heeter of Indiana. His mother died in 1918. Big Sandy News, Jun 16, 1944

 

KEYSER, Charles J.

Pvt. Charles J. Keyser, of Webbville was killed in action in Italy May 14, according to a telegram received from the War Department last Friday by his mother, Mrs. Lizzie Pennington of Webbville, Further details were not available. Big Sandy News, Jun 16, 1944

 

LAMBERT, Elmer Lee

1907-1944

Elmer Lee Lambert, 37, was killed Saturday night when he was run over by a motor in a cola mine at Aflex, KY. Mr. Lambert, motorman in the mine, accidentally fell in the path of the advancing motor and was unable to get to safety in time. Mr. Lambert was born Mar 17, 1907, a son of Jim and Nancy Jane Robinson Lambert. He was united in marriage on Nov 28, 1928, to Miss Grace Sammons in Lawrence County, KY. He had been employed at the Alfex coal mine 15 years. Funeral services were held Jun 21 at the United Baptist Church in Kenova with the Rev. Mr. Green officiating, and burial was in Dock's Creek Cemetery. Surviving are the widow, 3 children, Nancy, Jimmy and Margaret Lee, all of Aflex; 2 brothers, Henry and Cornie Lambert, Julia Lawson of Aflex, Mrs. Emma Fields of Pie, Mrs. Elizabeth Norris of Lodi, OH, Mrs. Mary McCoy of Huntington and Mrs. Frances Lester of Kenova. Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 

MARCUM, Verona Josephine

Mrs. Verona Josephine Marcum, 66 years old, of Crum, WV, died in St. Mary's hospital, Huntington, Jun 10, after a brief illness. Funeral services were conducted at the United Baptist Church, Crum, by Rev. J. A. Williams, with burial in the family cemetery there. She is survived by 2 sons, H. G. Marcum and C. L. Marcum of Columbus, OH; 2 daughters, Mrs. Aubrey Stepp and Mrs. A. C. Varney of Crum, one brother, Sherman Jeffrey of Oma, 3 half brothers, Harley, Albert and Asa Jeffrey all of Jeffrey, WV; 3 half sister, Mrs. Walter Aleshire, Mrs. Charles Browning and Mrs. Brookie Burgess of Jeffrey. Mrs. Marcum was the widow of General H. Marcum, former merchant of Crum and a member of the West Virginia legislature, who died in 1930. Big Sandy News, Jun 23, 1944

 

MAY, Charley A.

Cpl. Charley A. May, 29, who recently received a medical discharge from the Army after 3 years service, died Saturday in a Cleveland, OH hospital of injuries received while working for the Pennsylvania Railway. The body was shipped to Louisa, arriving Tuesday morning and funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at the home of his parents, Harry and Fredonia Wellman May here. Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the Baptist Church, officiated and the Louisa post American Legion conducted its ritual at the interment in Pine Hill Cemetery. Cpl. May recently returned to the States after serving with the U. S. Army in Alaska 20 months. He received a medical discharge Mar 31 and soon afterward commenced working for the Pennsylvania Railway. Details of the accident were not available at the time the New went to press. Cpl. May is survived by his parents, 2 sisters, Mrs. Kay Estep, Columbus, OH and Mrs. William Fitch, Louisa and 3 brothers, John, Fred and Robert May all of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jun 9,1 944

 

MEEK, J. F. (Feel)

1860-1944

F. (Feel) Meek, 83, died May 15, following a prolonged illness at his home in Whitesboro, TX. Mr. Meek was born May 1860 at Louisa, a son of Capt. Jesse Meek and Martha Goble Meek. With his wife, the former, Miss Jesse Adams, who he married in Louisa, and their children, he went to Texas in 1901. He lived in Whitesboro a number of years where he was a real estate dealer. Funeral services were conducted May 16 at the family residence with his pastor Rev. A. T. Mayes, officiating. Assisting were Rev. Nat Farley, pastor of the Baptist Church and Rev. S. R. Stiles of the Methodist Church. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery. Pallbearers were 6 grandsons. Survivors include his wife, and 2 sons, Amos B. Meek and C. G. Meek of Whitesboro. Three sons, Jesse A. Meek, William H. Meek and George G. Meek preceded their father in death. Other survivors are a brother, Mart Hall of Sadler, a sister, Mrs. Argie Manning of Whitesboro, 15 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Mr. Meek last visited Lawrence County in June 1925 when he came during the illness and death of his sister, Mrs. Bettie Pigg of Busseyville. Big Sandy News, Jun 2, 1944

 

MILLER, Craton

Craton Miller, 70 years old, well known merchant and farmer died at his home on the Wayne-East Lynn road, near Wayne, WV, Wednesday of last week, after an illness of 7 months. Death was attributed to cancer of the spinal cord. Mr. Miller was born in Lawrence county, KY, a son of the late Erastus and Emmaline Miller. He moved to Wayne county 41 years ago. He married Miss Clista Borders of Menifee county, KY 48 years ago, who survived with the following children, Mrs. Clara Carter, Erastus and Steve Miller of Wayne, route 2, Mrs. Millie Booth of Wilson Creek, WV, Mrs. Jennie Mills of Wayne route 1, Mrs. Laura Adkins of Wyoming county, Mrs. Louella Carter of West Huntington, 2 brothers, Oliver Miller of Catlettsburg and Winfield Miller of Stiltner, WV. Mr. Miller was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church and conducted a store near his home since 1911. Burial was in the Mills Cemetery on Peter Cave Creek. Big Sandy News, Jun 23, 1944

 

NAPIER, Ella (Maynard)

Mrs. Ella Maynard Napier, 57 years old of Williamson died Jun 6 at Memorial hospital, Huntington, where she had been a patient for 2 weeks, after undergoing an operation. Mrs. Napier and her husband, Charley Napier, had operated a general store in Williamson for the past 10 years. They were both natives of Stiltner, having moved to Williamson about 30 years ago. She was a daughter of Mrs. Nancy Ellen Frazier Maynard of near Stiltner and the late Henry F. Maynard, and was a member of the United Baptist Church there. In addition to the husband, and mother, she is survived by 2 sons. Big Sandy News, Jun 16, 1944

 

PERRY, Thomas E.

Thomas E. Perry, 23, died at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Perry, near Sidney, WV, Jun 15, after a lingering illness. Funeral services were conducted at the Bethel Baptist Church last Sunday by Rev. Glen Arrowood, with burial in the Ratcliff cemetery on Bromley Ridge. In addition to the parents, he is survived by 3 brothers, Rush and Ronnie Perry, at home and Robert Perry of the U. S. Navy, 2 sisters, Miss Belle Perry at home and Miss Mary Louise Perry of War. Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 

PIGG, Sarah (Osborn)

1870-1944

Mrs. Sarah Osborn Pigg, 74, wife of Frank W. Pigg, of Louisa, died Thursday morning shortly after midnight at the Pigg home here. She had been in failing health several months and had been seriously ill 2 weeks. Funeral service will be conducted in the Louisa First Baptist Church Sunday afternoon at 2:30 and interment will be in the Pine Hill cemetery here. Deceased was born near Sandy Hook in 1870, a daughter of Meredith and Lucy Lyon Osborn, pioneer citizens. She had lived in Louisa more than half a century and for many years conducted a boarding house here. She was widely known and beloved by a large circle of acquaintances. She had been a lifelong member of the Baptist church. Surviving besides her husband are 2 daughters, Mrs. Emma Braid and Mrs. A. V. Cain both of Louisa and 2 half brothers, Walter and John Osborn, both of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 

PREECE, William S.

Killed in action in France on Jun 18 was Pfc. William S. Preece, member of a parachute infantry battalion, son of Mr. and Mrs. M. T. Preece of the High Bottom section of Louisa. Pfc. Preece volunteered Jun 3, 1942 and later volunteered fro a parachute infantry battalion. He is one of 3 sons of Mr. and Mrs. M. T. Preece serving in the armed forces. Victor C. Preece volunteered for duty overseas a few hours after the attack on Pearl Harbor and is serving as an airplane mechanic in Hawaii. Pfc. Malcolm T. Preece, Jr. entered service in the Army Engineers.  Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 

PYLES, Victoria

Mrs. Victoria Pyles, of Whites Creek, WV, died at the home of a son, Clyde Pyles of Ashland, KY, Jun 17 after a lingering illness. She is survived by her husband, Valentine Pyles; 3 daughters, Mrs. Elizabeth Bartram, Mrs. Sadie Ferguson and Mrs. Laura Adkins, all of Huntington; 5 other sons, Covey Pyles of Baltimore, MD, Paul Pyles of Kenova, George, Alex and Pharo Hawkins of Huntington, 3 step sons, J. C. Pyles of Chicago, G. W. Pyles of New York and Everett Pyles of Whites Creek. Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 

SAMMONS, Mrs. Henry C.

SAMMONS, Milton B.

Mrs. Henry C. Sammons, 81 and her son, Milton B. Sammons, 60, were fatally injured and 2 of Mrs. Sammons' daughters were injured, one seriously, in a tragic automobile accident on the Mayo Trail near Louisa last Thursday afternoon. Mrs. Sammons died en route to the hospital, and her son died a few minutes after being admitted to the hospital. Other injured were Miss Nancy Mae Sammons, a Huntington school teacher, and Mrs. John A. Collinsworth, of Louisa. Miss Nancy Mae Sammons suffered a compound fracture of the left leg near the ankle and she was taken to St. Mary's Hospital in Huntington following treatment in the Louisa hospital. Mrs. Collinsworth suffered cuts and bruises and was dismissed from the hospital after treatment.

 

The accident occurred about 2:30 Thursday afternoon when the car in which the 4 were riding was about to make a left hand turn onto the Mayo Trail about a quarter of a mile above Louisa. the 4 were returning from the home of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Phillips in High Bottom and were driving up the inclined side road onto the Trail. Miss Nancy Mae was driving. At the junction of the side road with the Trail, Miss Sammons attempted to turn left, but seeing an approaching truck, she stopped at the top of the incline with the front wheels partly turned onto the Trail. The engine stalled and the brakes apparently failed to hold the cra on the inclined road. The car started rolling backwards and Mrs. Collinsworth jumped out and attempted to hold it. Leaving the road, the car rolled backward down a steep grade, then plunged backward over a 75 foot embankment into the bed of Lick Creek. Mrs. Collinsworth was knocked down and the running board dragged her almost to the brink of the embankment. The others went over the embankment in the car.

 

The auto was badly crushed at the back, top and side, and rescuers had difficulty in extricating the 3 victims. Mrs. Sammons died soon after being removed from the wreck. Milton died about 10 minutes after reaching the hospital of a chest injury. Condition of Miss Nancy Mae Sammons was described as better this week and attending physicians said they would be able to save the leg. The tragedy spread gloom over the town. the victims were pioneer citizens of Louisa and beloved by everyone. Mrs. Sammons was the widow of the late Henry C. Sammons, who died in 1927. She had resided in Louisa 61 years and was on of the town's best loved ladies. Her son Milton, who had been a semi-cripple for many years, had lived here all his life and had a host of friends. Double funeral rites were conducted in the First Baptist Church here Sunday afternoon. Rev. Olus Hamilton, of Mt. Sterling, Rev. J. C. Hager, the pastor, and Rev. William W. Moore, officiated. A large assemblage, including scores of people... Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 

SMITH, Elijah W.

Elijah W. Smith, 83, well known citizen and prosperous farmer of the Dry Fork section, 2 miles from Webbville, died suddenly of a heart attack, at his home Tuesday morning at 7. Deceased was born and reared on Catt Creek near Tuscola, a son of James W. and Martha Baker Smith, pioneer residents. He had lived on Dry Fork practically all of his life, where he operated a large farm. Funeral rites were conducted Thursday afternoon at the Baker church on Little Catt Creek and interment made in the Smith cemetery near the church. Deceased had been a member of the Methodist Church since early manhood. He is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. W. I. Webb of Ashland and Mrs. W. O. Lay of North Fork, WV, 4 sons, D. A. Smith of Ashland, Henry Smith of Webbville, J. E. Smith of Nellis, WV and E. R. Smith of Portsmouth, OH, and 3 brothers, John Smith of West Hamlin, WV, William Smith of Tuscola, and D. M. Smith of Louisa. Big Sandy News. Jun 2, 1944

 

SPURLOCK, Madge (Miller)

1905-1944

Mrs. Madge Miller Spurlock, 39, wife of Fred Spurlock, of Cherryville, died at the home Monday morning after an illness of one year. Deceased was a daughter of the late George and Dora Pack Miller. Funeral will probably be held Thursday afternoon at the Cherryville Baptist Church and interment will be in the Wallace cemetery of Donathan. Rev. W. B. Curnutte of Louisa, will officiate. Mrs. Spurlock is survived by her husband, 4 daughters, Misses Pearl, Dora Elizabeth, Georgia Louise and Linda Lou, all at home; 3 sons, Cpl. Eugene W. Spurlock, U. S. Army at Fort Crockett, TX, Roy and Robert at home, 5 sisters, Mrs. Eugene Hensley of Cherryville, Mrs. James Lemaster, Mrs. Albert Maynard and Miss Ethel Miller, all of Louisa and Mrs. Lace Thompson of Ashland and 2 brothers, James A. and Raymond Miller, both of Cherryville. Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 

STARR, Jack

Pfc. Jack Starr, 20, who was raised in the Irish Creek section near Blaine, this county, was killed in action at the Anzio beachhead in Italy Apr 24, relatives here have been informed. His wife lives in Chicago and she relayed the War Department message to relatives here last week. Pfc. Starr, a son of William Starr of Beckley, WV and the late Mrs. Starr, was born at Montgomery, WV, but was reared by his grandfather, Enos Derifield of the Irish Creek section of this county. His mother died when he was 9 days old. Pfc. Starr, member of an Infantry regiment, was inducted from Chicago Apr 28, 1943 and went overseas last November. He was employed on the Santa Fe Railway out of Chicago when he was inducted. His wife and 2 sisters reside in Chicago. Big Sandy News, June 2, 1944

 

VANHOOSE, Fred C.

Fred C. Vanhoose, 73, of Tutor Key, Johnson county, prominent farmer and former State Senator of this district, died Wednesday of last week in a Huntington hospital of pneumonia that followed an operation. He was a brother of F. S. VanHoose of the VanHoose Lumber Co. here and was widely known in this county. Funeral was conducted at his home at Tutor Key Sunday morning and a large assemblage attended. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Miranda Daniels VanHoose and 3 children, Wendell and Perry VanHoose and Mrs. Anna Ruth Wheeler. His first wife, Mrs. Stella Spears VanHoose, died many years ago. By his first wife, he had the following children, Arvill, Hobart, Edna, Clyde, Roger and Quinbia. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. Big Sandy News, Jun 16, 1944

 

WHEELER, Amos H.

1869-1944

Amos H. Wheeler, 75, died Monday night at his home near Blaine. Funeral rites were conducted Wednesday afternoon at the home with Rev. Jarrett Cordle officiating and interment was made in the family cemetery. Mr. Wheeler, a son of the late John R. and Kate Wheeler, was born and reared and had lived all of his life near Blaine. He had been a member of the United Baptist Church for more than 50 years. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Mary Booth Wheeler, 4 daughters, Mrs. Clarence Pennington, of Dobbins, Mrs. Hugh Boggs and Mrs. Lunda Murray, both of Ashland, and Miss Monnie Wheeler at home; 3 sons, Gus Wheeler of Columbus and Arville and Ernest Wheeler both at home, and one brother, Isaac Wheeler of Blaine. Big Sandy news, Jun 9, 1944

 

WHEELER, Lena (Ramey)

1915-1944

Mrs. Lena Ramey Wheeler, 28, wife of William Wallace Wheeler, died Jun 23 at the Wheeler home at Ashville, OH following a week's illness. The body was brought to Louisa Sunday and taken to Wilbur where funeral was conducted at the home of her mother in law, Mrs. Ethel Lemaster, with Rev. Boll Skaggs, Rev. L. T. Preston, Rev. Jarrett Cordle, Rev. Thomas Bailey and Rev. Dennis Caldwell officiating. Deceased was born at Davisville, this county, Sep 21, 1915, a daughter of Isaac and Cassie Davis Ramey. She moved to Ohio 14 years ago. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church 14 years. Surviving besides the husband are 7 children all at home; 4 brothers, Earl Ramey of Sunbury, OH, Hershel Ramey in U. S. Army overseas, Ray Ramey in Army overseas, and Norman Ramey of Ashville, OH; and 5 sisters, Mrs. Gus Wheeler, Mrs. Amos M. Wheeler both of Ashville, OH, Mrs. Oscar Waller of Columbus, Misses Shirley and Sylvia, at home, Sunbury, OH. Big Sandy News, Jun 30, 1944

 


 

JULY 1944


 

 

BOWLING, Robert L., Jr.

Mrs. R. L. Bowling, route 1, Ashland, has been notified by the war department of the death of her son, Pvt. Robert L. Bowling, Jr., U. S. Marine Corps, in action in the South Pacific. Private Bowling entered combat service Jan 22, 1944. Big Sandy News, Jul 21, 1944

 

CAMPBELL, Otis

Blaine, KY, Jul 18--Again death has visited our community. On Sunday night at 10:30 Otis Campbell died at the home of Charley Griffith. He was 26 years old, the son of the late Dave and Artie Campbell. He had been converted and baptized by Bro. Dave Hewlett about a week ago. The burial was in the Griffith cemetery on Cains Creek with Rev. Hewlett officiating. Big Sandy News, Jul 21, 1944

 

CARTER, J. C.

C. Carter, 75, well known farmer of Adams, died Thursday evening at his home on a tributary of Brushey where he was born and reared and had lived all his life. He had been in failing health 2 years and seriously ill 2 weeks of a heart ailment. Funeral rites were conducted Saturday afternoon at the Carter family cemetery with Rev. Arthur Morris officiating. Deceased was a son of the late Thomas and Polly Berry Carter, pioneer citizens. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Eliza Thompson Carter, one daughter, Mrs. Roscoe Jones of Ashland, 2 sons, Henry Carter, of Ellen and William Carter, of Adams, 5 sisters, Mrs. Jack Muncy of Louisa and Mrs. Gus Dean, of Columbus, OH, Mrs. Robert Frazier of Adams, Mrs. John Young of Winchester, KY and Mrs. Wiley Moore of Ellen and a brother, George Carter of Cherokee, KY. Big Sandy News, Jul 21, 1944

 

CARTER, Joe Ann

Joe Ann Carter, 4 months old daughter of Talmadge and Nellie Blythe Carter of Irad, died last Friday at the home after a short illness of summer diarrhea. Funeral was conducted Saturday and interment made in the Carter family cemetery near Irad. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

CASTLE, Homer Clyde

1924-1944

Homer Clyde Castle, 20, formerly of Martha, and Charles Perkins, formerly of Dry Fork, were killed in action. Castle was born and reared at Martha a son of Floyd and Effie McBrayer Castle, who reside near New Boston, OH. A card from relatives received here last Saturday by Mrs. C. B. Rice said that Castle was killed in action the day after his 20th birthday. It did not name the war theatre where he served. The boy's father is a cousin of Mrs. Ernest P. Wellman of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

CHANDLER, Charles Jeff

1863-1944

Charles Jeff Chandler of Lucasville, Ohio, died Wednesday of last week at the home of his son, Roscoe Chandler of Lucasville, Ohio, Route .  He had been in ill health for some time, having suffered a stroke about three years ago. He was born May 12, 1863, a son of Henry C. and  Elizabeth Grimm Chandler, of near Blaine, and moved to Lucasville  community about 31 years ago. His wife, Clista Jane Young, died in  1933. Four daughters and two sons also preceded him in death.  Mr. Chandler had been a United Baptist minister, although he had not  been active for some time because of ill health, and also worked as a  cooper.  He is survived by five daughters, Mrs. Lindsey Wheeler and Mrs.  Harrison Pack of Blaine; Mrs. Walter Cup of Franklin Furnace, Ohio and  Mrs. Arlie Kelley and Mrs. Harvey Fitcher (?) of Lucasville, and three  sons, Wesley and Henry of Lucasville, and Roscoe of Lucasville, Route  1. Two sisters also survive, Mrs. Elizabeth Eldridge of Ironton, Ohio  and Mrs. Linda Fannin of Jackson, Ohio. Two sisters and two brothers  are deceased.  Funeral services were held Saturday at the home of Mrs.  Arlie Kelley of Lucasville. Rev. Sandy Phillips and Rev. Paul Turner  officiated. Big Sandy News,  Friday, July 28, 1944.  

 

FERGUSON, Estelle

Fort Gay, WV, Jul 10--Estelle Ferguson, 3 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Essler Ferguson of Wayne, was killed instantly Jul 4 when she fell from a truck on the Hurricane Creek Road. The accident occurred as Mrs. Ferguson with the 2 children was enroute to visit her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Luther Meade of Lost Creek. She was riding in a truck driven by J. W. Porter of Wayne, who was going to work at Glenhayes. When the youngest child, 20 months old Phyllis Jean, became car sick, Mrs. Ferguson attempted to roll down the window to give the child air. The door became unfastened and the other child, who was leaning on the door, plunged directly under the rear wheels. The father, Essler Ferguson, private in the U. S. Army is stationed at Camp Campbell, KY having been inducted last March. In addition to the parents, sister and maternal grandparents, the paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Cleveland Ferguson, of Wayne, survive. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

FUGITT, John Felix

John Felix Fugitt, 71, of Chapman, died suddenly Thursday of last week at the home of a niece, Mrs. Z. W. Chapman at Chapman. He had been suffering several months with a heart ailment and was found dead in his bed Thursday morning. Funeral rites were conducted Saturday at the Walnut Gap Church near Adams with Rev. S. B. Ball and Rev. William W. Moore officiating and interment was made in the Ball family cemetery at Dry Ridge. Deceased, a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Fugitt, was born and reared at Adams and had resided there until 8 years ago. His wife, Mrs. Lydia Carter Fugitt, died several years ago. He is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Oscar Hayes of Columbus, OH and Mrs. Roy Pennington of East Liverpool, OH, one son, Willis Fugitt of Columbus, OH, one sister, Mrs. Eck Carter, of Adams, and 2 brothers, W. T. Fugitt of Gallup and Milt Fugitt of Adams. Big Sandy News, Jul 7, 1944

 

GIBSON, Paul H.

Pfc. Paul H. Gibson, a six months veteran of the U. S. Army engineers, was killed in action in New Guinea Jun 20, his mother, Mrs. Emil Gibson of Shoals, WV was notified by the war department this week. Big Sandy News, Jul 21, 1944

 

HAMMOND, Robert Johnson

Fort Gay, WV, Jul 27--Robert Johnson (Johnse) Hammond, 79, prominent farmer and livestock dealer of Fort Gay, died Wednesday night at 9 at the Hammond farm home on Big Sandy River just below Fort Gay. He had been in failing health 2 years and seriously ill a month. Funeral rites will be conducted at the home Saturday morning at 10:30. Deceased, a son of the late James and Amanda Warfel Hammond, was born at Harrisville, OH, but had resided at Fort Gay the past 70 years. He was one of 3 Hammond brothers that operated the Hammond farm here. His brothers, Charles and William, died a few years ago. Mr. Hammond had been a member of the Presbyterian Church since 19 years of age. He was never married. Surviving are a sister, Mrs. E. W. Boxley of Fort Gay, a niece, Mrs. Howard Snyder of Dover, OH and a nephew, Lt. Col. George Smucker, serving with the U. S. Army in England. Big Sandy News, Jul 28, 1944

 

HAYES, June

1926-1944

Miss June Geraldine Hayes, 17 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Zeal Hayes of near Adams, this county and Pvt. Robert Stanley Scott, 19, of Ashland, were drowned Monday midnight in the Ohio River at Catlettsburg and Boyd County coroner Dr. J. C. Hall returned a verdict of accidental drowning. The drownings occurred near the Cumberland Pipe Line station of the Ashland Oil and Refining Company a the foot of 12th Street, Catlettsburg and near the new all-steel towboat "Midway Island', which was moored there. Miss Hayes had gone to Ashland 4 days before to visit her sister, Mrs. Maude Elizabeth Bowman. The two principal witnesses to the tragedy gave conflicting testimony at an inquest held Tuesday morning at the Kilgore-Collier Funeral Home, Catlettsburg.

 

Howard Spradlin, 24, Denver, KY, a deckhand on the "Midway Island", tow boat of the Ashland Oil & Refining Co., fleet, testified that he had just completed a tour of the boat with the couple and the girl's sister, Mrs. Maude Elizabeth Bowman of Ashland when the soldier and his companion disappeared from the lower deck. Mrs. Bowman testified they were in a small rowboat from the larger boat and were tying up to the Midway Islands after a row into the river when her sister fill into the water. Scott dived in after her and failed to come to the surface. Scott's body was recovered from the river about 20 minutes after the tragedy. the girl's body was located an hour later. Pvt. Scott, stationed at Camp Crowder, MO, arrived in Ashland Sunday on a furlough to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James P. Scott. The body of Miss Hayes was brought to the Curtright Funeral Home here Tuesday. Funeral rites will be conducted Sunday afternoon at 2 in the Cando Freewill Baptist Church on the right fork of Little Blaine with Rev. William W. Moore of Louisa, officiating and interment will be made in the family cemetery. The body will remain at the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa until Saturday. Miss Hayes is survived by her parents, Zeal and Bessie Johnson Hayes, 3 sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Bowman of Ashland, Mrs. Edward Moore of Columbus and Earsel Pope of Louisa and 2 brothers, Donald Hayes of Columbus and Paul Hayes, serving in the U. S. Army in New Guinea and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William Hayes of Georges Creek and Mrs. D. B. Johnson of Louisa. Deceased was a sister of Charles Hayes who was killed in action in Italy 4 months ago. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

HOLBROOK, Pleasant Tilden

Pleasant Tilden Holbrook, 67, merchant and postmaster at Red Bush for many years and a prominent Johnson county citizen, died Jul 14 at his home in Paintsville. He was a traveling salesman 25 years and helped organize the Ohio Valley Coffee Co. in Portsmouth and was a stockholder and director of the corporation. Deceased was a son of Lorenzo Dow and Emily Holbrook of Red Bush. He is survived by his second wife, Gertrude Auxier Holbrook and one son, Fred Burgess Holbrook of Paintsville. Big Sandy News, Jul 28, 1944

 

KNODE, Alice (Wellman)

1879-1944

Fort Gay, WV, Jul 12--Mrs. Alice Wellman Knode, 65, widow of the late Jesse Knode, died at the home in Fort Gay Sunday about noon. She had been ill a year. Funeral rites were conducted Tuesday afternoon in the Fort Gay Methodist Church with Rev. William W. Moore of Louisa officiating. Interment was made in the Wellman family cemetery at Saltpetre, WV under direction of the Curtright Funeral home. Deceased was born at Saltpetre, WV, Mar 2, 1879. The family lived in Louisa several years, Mr. Knode died in 1940. Surviving are 2 daughters, Mrs. Robert Roten of Huntington and Miss Mable Knode, at home, 2 sons, Paul J. Knode, of Canton, OH and Thaddius B. Knode, U. S. Army in France; 3 sisters, Mrs. Dock Frasher, Fort Gay, Mrs. Clarence Bruce, Huntington, and Mrs. Garland Spears, Mansfield, OH and 5 brothers, Taylor Wellman of Louisa, George Wellman of Huntington, Carl Wellman of Kenova, Noah Wellman of Huntington and L. Boyd Wellman of Rittman, OH. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

LEMASTER, Bill

Fort Gay, WV, Jul 4--William H. Lemaster was killed in action during the 3rd day of the invasion according to a telegram received by his father, Ed Lemaster, merchant of the Tabor's Creek section, 4 miles north of Fort Gay, last week. Lemaster was inducted into the army about 3 years ago. Prior to entering the army, he was employed in Ohio. He spent a great deal of his life at Potter, KY until his father moved from there to Tabor's creek about 6 years ago. He has a twin brother, Thurman, who is serving in the Navy, but is home on a furlough now. The telegram stated a letter would follow giving details. Big Sandy news, Jul 7, 1944

 

MCCLURE, Earl

Cpl. Earl McClure, of Huntington, a son of Mrs. Sallie McClure and the late Edgar McClure formerly of this county, was killed in action in the European theatre of operations, according to a telegram from the War Department received Tuesday by his mother in Huntington. Cpl. McClure was born and partly reared at Torchlight, this county. His father died last year and was returned to this county for burial. In addition to his mother, Cpl. McClure is survived by 2 brothers, Ed McClure, in England with the U. S. Army and Paul McClure of Huntington; and 3 sisters, Misses Louella, Juanita and Marcheta McClure, all of Huntington. He was a nephew of F.C. McClure of Gallup and J. J. McClure of route 2, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jul 28, 1944

 

MICHAELS, Lucretia (Workman)

Mrs. Lucretia Michaels, 55, of Ceredo, died at her home Jul 1. She is survived by the husband, J. Dan Michaels; 2 daughters, Mrs. Leonard Dixon of Ceredo, and Miss Janie Michaels at home, one brother, Harvey Workman of Blaine, KY, and one sister, Mrs. Levy Riddle of Kenova. Funeral services were conducted at the residence by Rev. Luther Pratt, with burial in Brown cemetery on Crescent Hill. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

MILUM, Mary (Blankenship)

Fort Gay, WV, Jul 27--Mrs. Mary Blankenship Milum, 62, wife of John Milum of Bluefield, died Tuesday in a hospital in Bluefield after a long illness. Death followed soon after she was notified a son had been killed in action in Italy. The body was brought to Fort Gay and taken to Genoa for interment in the Milum family cemetery. Rev. A. B. Milum conducted short services at the grave. Deceased was a daughter of the late Jacob and Minnie Wolford Blankenship and was born at Phelps, KY. She is survived by her husband and one son. Big Sandy News, Jul 28, 1944

 

MOORE, Georgia Ann (McHenry)

Mrs. Georgia Ann Moore, 74, widow of the late Felix Moore, of this county, died Sunday in a Lexington hospital. She had been in failing health 3 years. The body was returned to Louisa and funeral was conducted in the Curtright Funeral Home here Wednesday afternoon with Rev. L. D. Rounds, pastor of the First Methodist Church of Louisa, officiating. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery here. Deceased was born Jan 4, 1870, in Louisa, a daughter of the late John and Catherine York McHenry. She had lived in Louisa and at Charley most of her life. She had been a member of the Methodist Church 45 years. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. J. R. Jordan, of Ashland, a son, Laud Moore, of Columbus and 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jul 7, 1944

 

O'PELL, Frank

Frank O'Pell, 47, of Catlettsburg, formerly of the Buchanan section, died Jun 21 in Riffe-Ferguson Hospital in Kenova. He was a brother of Mrs. Joe White and Mrs. Alma Moore, both of Buchanan, and Perry, Nick, Ray and Marvin O'Pell all of Buchanan. Big Sandy News, Jul 7, 1944

 

PERKINS, Charles

Homer Clyde Castle, 20, formerly of Martha, and Charles Perkins, formerly of Dry Fork, were killed in action. Perkins was born and reared at Needmore on Dry Fork near Webbville. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Perkins, who now reside in Huntington. He was killed in action in France, relatives have been informed. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

PRESTON, Bascom E.

Pvt. Bascom E. Preston, son of Mrs. Evelyn Preston of Milo, Martin county, killed in the Mediterranean area. Big Sandy News, Jul 21, 1944

 

ROBINETT, Elmer

Pfc. Elmer T. Robinett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Kelly Robinett of Louisa, route 1, who was reported missing in action, has now been reported by the War Department as killed in action in Italy on May 23. His wife and 3 children reside at Paintsville. Big Sandy News, Jul 21, 1944

 

ROBINSON, Roland

Robert Robinson, 56, retired steam shovel operator and a former resident of Louisa, died Jul 11 at his farm home 11 miles from Fort Gay on the Fort Gay-Wayne Road. He had been in failing health 5 years and seriously ill 2 weeks of a heart ailment. Funeral was conducted Thursday morning at the home with Rev. L. M. Rogers, pastor of the Louisa Methodist Church, officiating, and the body was taken to Huntington for interment in Woodmere Cemetery. Mr. Robinson was born in Wythville, VA. He lived in Louisa 8 years, in Fort Gay 3 years and retired to a farm on the Wayne road 4 years ago. He was a member of the Methodist Church. Surviving are 3 daughters, Mrs. Frank Quila and Mrs. Edward Osborn both of Huntington and Pvt. Sally Ann Robertson, with the WAVES at Norfolk, VA, his wife, Mrs. Malinda Hurt Robinson, 3 sons, Roland R. Jr., Frank S. and Herbert H. Robinson, all at home, 3 sisters, Mrs. R. F. Boxley, Mrs. H. H. Crockett and Mrs. J. R. Saunders, all of Roanoke, VA and one brother, Hugh M. Robinson of Monongahela, PA.  Big Sandy News, Jul 21, 1944

 

ROSE, Ruth Evelyn

Ruth Evelyn Rose, 9 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Rose of Louisa, died at the home Sunday evening at 8 following an illness of more than a year. Funeral rites were conducted Wednesday morning at 10:30 at the home with Rev. William W. Moore officiating and interment made in the Hay cemetery at Irad. Surviving are the parents, Raymond and Sarah Skaggs Rose, a sister, Louisa and brother, Jimmie Ray Rose, both at home and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Lee Skaggs of Louisa and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rose of Irad. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

SCOTT, Robert Stanley

Miss June Geraldine Hayes, 17 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Zeal Hayes of near Adams, this county and Pvt. Robert Stanley Scott, 19, of Ashland, were drowned Monday midnight in the Ohio River at Catlettsburg and Boyd County coroner Dr. J. C. Hall returned a verdict of accidental drowning. The drownings occurred near the Cumberland Pipe Line station of the Ashland Oil and Refining Company a the foot of 12th Street, Catlettsburg and near the new all-steel towboat "Midway Island', which was moored there. Miss Hayes had gone to Ashland 4 days before to visit her sister, Mrs. Maude Elizabeth Bowman. The two principal witnesses to the tragedy gave conflicting testimony at an inquest held Tuesday morning at the Kilgore-Collier Funeral Home, Catlettsburg.

 

Howard Spradlin, 24, Denver, KY, a deckhand on the "Midway Island", tow boat of the Ashland Oil & Refining Co., fleet, testified that he had just completed a tour of the boat with the couple and the girl's sister, Mrs. Maude Elizabeth Bowman of Ashland when the soldier and his companion disappeared from the lower deck. Mrs. Bowman testified they were in a small rowboat from the larger boat and were tying up to the Midway Islands after a row into the river when her sister fill into the water. Scott dived in after her and failed to come to the surface. Scott's body was recovered from the river about 20 minutes after the tragedy. the girl's body was located an hour later. Pvt. Scott, stationed at Camp Crowder, MO, arrived in Ashland Sunday on a furlough to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James P. Scott. The body of Miss Hayes was brought to the Curtright Funeral Home here Tuesday. Funeral rites will be conducted Sunday afternoon at 2 in the Cando Freewill Baptist Church on the right fork of Little Blaine with Rev. William W. Moore of Louisa, officiating and interment will be made in the family cemetery. The body will remain at the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa until Saturday. Miss Hayes is survived by her parents, Zeal and Bessie Johnson Hayes, 3 sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Bowman of Ashland, Mrs. Edward Moore of Columbus and Earsel Pope of Louisa and 2 brothers, Donald Hayes of Columbus and Paul Hayes, serving in the U. S. Army in New Guinea and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William Hayes of Georges Creek and Mrs. D. B. Johnson of Louisa. Deceased was a sister of Charles Hayes who was killed in action in Italy 4 months ago. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

SMITH, Martin Luther

Martin Luther Smith, 83, died at his home near Fort Gay, Jun 24, after a lingering illness. Funeral services were held Monday by Rev. Albert Milum, with burial in the family cemetery near his home. He is survived by the widow, one son, Irvin Smith of the U. S. Army and one grandson. Big Sandy News, Jul 7, 1944

 

SPURLOCK, Bertha (Isaac)

1912-1944

Mrs. Bertha Spurlock, 32, Naugatuck housewife, died Friday morning at 5 at her home after suffering with a heart ailment for the past year. She was the wife of Millard Spurlock. Born Jun 20, 1912 at Breeden, WV, deceased was a daughter of Ura and Lula (Wheeling) Isaac. She was a member of the Church of God. She is survived by her husband and her mother at Naugatuck and 5 children, Kenneth, Betty, Everett, Tennessee and Thomas, all of Naugatuck and 3 sisters, Mrs. Della Boggs of Charleston, Mrs. Irene Burchett of Gordon, WV and Mrs. Mary Dunn of Vandytown, WV. Big Sandy News, Jul 7, 1944

 

WILLIAMS, Charlotte Irene

The body of Miss Charlotte Irene Williams, 22, who died Jul 15 in a hospital in Akron, OH, was returned to this county for funeral and interment. Miss Williams, an employee of the Firestone Rubber Company, died in Akron after a month's illness of complication. She was a daughter of Mrs. Flora Sparks Williams of Akron and the late Lee Williams, and had resided in Akron the past 2 years. Prior to that she lived at Jochin, WV. Funeral was conducted Wednesday afternoon at 2 at the home of her grandfather, Cobe Sparks of Yatesville, with Rev. William W. Moore of Louisa and Rev. Dock Burke, of Wenaco, WV officiating. Besides the mother, she is survived by 2 sisters, Mrs. Betty Johnson of Louisa and Mrs. Leslie Snodgrass of Jochin, WV, 4 brothers, Roy Williams of Cleveland, Leo Williams, serving in the U. S. Merchant Marine; Robert Williams of Amagoe, WV and Sherwood Sparks of Logan, WV; and 2 grandparents, Cobe Sparks of Yatesville and Mrs. Whitten Williams of Atle, WV. Big Sandy News, Jul 21, 1944

 

WRIGHT, W. J.

J. Wright, 78, native of the Gladys section of this county, was killed by a C & O train Jun 20 near his farm 3 miles below Greenup. Deceased was born and reared in this county, a son of G. W. and Mary Jobe Wright. He had moved away about 50 years ago. Surviving are 3 sisters, Mrs. C. C. Kitchen of Louisa, Mrs. Elizabeth Carey of Ruggles Milles, KY and Mrs. Anna Clay of Richmond, VA and one brother, E. J. Wright of Ashland. After the death of his first wife, Victoria Adams, some 50 years ago, he married Trinvilla Holbrook, who survived. Also surviving are the following children, George and J. W. Wright, Mrs. Mary Rogers, Mrs. Bess Saunders and Russell Wright, all of Charleston, WV, Mrs. Victoria Hale, Brentwood, PA, O. J. Wright, Ashland, Mrs. Emma Wiley, Chicago and Mrs. Peggy Riggles, Greenup. The oldest daughter, Priscilla Johnson, died in 1943. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944

 

YOUNG, John Franklin

John Franklin Young, 81, died at his home near Webbville, Jul 2, following a stroke of apoplexy. Funeral was conducted Jul 3 and interment made in the Young family cemetery. Big Sandy News, Jul 14, 1944


 

AUGUST 1944

 


 

BRANHAM, Dave

Fort Gay, WV, Aug 8--Dave Branham, age 24, of Glenhayes, was killed in action on Jul 12th while serving with the armed forces in France, according to a telegram received by his father, John Branham, N & W section foreman at Glenhayes on Jul 22nd. Branham was slightly wounded in action and spent one day in the hospital and was killed the day he returned to duty. He enlisted in the army 4 years ago. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

BURRIS, Victoria (Chaffin)

Fort Gay, WV, Aug 15--Mrs. Victoria Burris, 89, wife of George Burris, of route 1, Fort Gay, died Thursday evening at the home of a son, Clarence Wellman, at the Forks of Hurricane. She had been ill four months of complications. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon in the Fort Gay Methodist Church with the pastor, Rev. Enos Scraggs officiating. Mrs. Burris was born and had spent all of her life near Fort Gay. She was a daughter of Thomas and Rhoda Billups Chaffin, pioneer citizens. She had been a member of the Baptist Church 71 years. Her first husband, George Wellman, died many years ago. She married George Burris 21 years ago and he survives. She is also survived by a son, Clarence Wellman of route 1, Fort Gay and a sister, Mrs. Noah Wellman all of Wayne, WV. Big Sandy News, Aug 18, 1944

 

CARTER, Covie C.

Pvt. Covie C. Carter, serving with an infantry unit in France, was killed in action Jul 25, according to a telegram received from the War Department by his parents, William and Belva Carter of Irad. Pvt. Carter was the youngest of 3 brothers in service. He would have been 21 years old next month. One brother is in France and the other is yet in the States. Big Sandy News, Aug 18,1 944

 

CASTNER, Bob

Robert F. Castner, 30, son of Mrs. Margaret M. Castner of New Orleans, formerly of Louisa, died of  a heart attack while on vacation in Miami, FL friends here have been informed. The body was shipped to Ironton, OH arriving Tuesday and funeral was conducted Wednesday in the St. Lawrence Church there with burial following in the Calvary Cemetery. Mr. Castner was bookkeeper for the Sisters of Charity Hospital in New Orleans. His mother, Mrs. Margaret M. Castner, is reported seriously ill and was unable to attend the funeral. The Castner family resided in Louisa for many years and were well known here. Besides his mother, he is survived by one brother, Jack, serving in the U. S. Navy, 2 uncles, M. J. Murphy of Ironton and James F. Murphy of Pittsburgh, PA and 2 aunts, Mrs. W. C. Young and Mrs. Bert Miller also of Pittsburgh. Big Sandy News, Aug 18, 1944

 

CORNWELL, Mary (Adams)

1864-1944

Mrs. Mary Cornwell, 79 native of this county, died Jul 25 at a hospital in Riverside, CA after a brief illness, relatives  here have been informed. Deceased was born at Irad, this county, Oct 4, 1864, a daughter of Martin and Fannie Adams. She spent her early life in this county and was married at the age of 17 years to Lindsey White, who died 2 years later. Their son, W. M. white lived at Yukon, WV. In 1887 she was married to Vinton Cornwell, and to this union were born 4 children, 2 of whom survive, Mrs. Carrie Smith and L. C. Cornwell, both of Riverside, CA. A stepson, I. V. Cornwell, resides at Trinidad, CO. Funeral was conducted Jul 28 at the M. H. Simmons Chapel in Riverside and interment made in Olive Wood Cemetery there. Deceased had a host of relatives and friends in Kentucky and West Virginia and had visited them a number of times since moving to California. Her last trip back east was in 1939. She and her daughter visited 6 weeks with relatives in Kentucky and West Virginia. She was the last survivor of the Martin Adams family. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Riverside. Big Sandy News, Aug 18, 1944

 

CRABTREE, Lafe

Mrs. Hester Crabtree of Webbville, KY, route 1, received a telegram from the War Department stating that her son Cpl. Lafe Crabtree, age 28, was seriously injured in action in France on Jul 17th. Later Mrs. Crabtree was notified that her son was wounded on the 18th and died on 23rd. Cpl. Crabtree had spent the past 3 years in the service and being a volunteer had gone through the North African and Sicilian campaigns. He also had taken part in the invasion of France. He has a brother, Cpl. Arville Crabtree, serving somewhere in the Pacific area. Cpl. Crabtree was married to Miss Mary Brook of West Virginia. She at present is residing with her parents. Big Sandy News, Aug 25, 1944

 

FULKERSON, William P.

A soldier identified as Pvt. William P. Fulkerson of Camp Croft, SC, was fatally injured Monday morning when hit by C & O passenger train No. 37 at Chapman. Resident of Chapman said the soldier got off of a freight train and sat down on the end of the ties and evidently fell asleep. The passenger train picked him up and brought him to Louisa where he was given emergency treatment and then taken in the Curtright ambulance to the C & O Hospital in Huntington. He died of head injuries about an hour after being admitted to the Huntington hospital. C & O officials said he was identified through a laundry name on his clothes and by his serial number. The commanding officer at Camp Croft was notified and he referred the case to Fifth Corps area headquarters in Columbus, to be cleared. It is not learned here where the soldier's home was. He carried pictures in his pocket that evidently were his parents, his wife and little son. Big Sandy News, Aug 4, 1944

 

GUSSLER, Milton

Pvt. Milton M. Gussler, 20, son of Deputy Sheriff and Mrs. Freet Gussler of Adams was killed in action in Italy July 15, according to a message received by the parents from the War Department last Friday. Pvt. Gussler entered service Aug 23, 1943 and arrived in Italy Jun 2 with an infantry division. His last letter home was dated Jul 13 2 days before he was killed. Besides his parents, he is survived by 3 brothers and 4 sisters, all at home. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

HALL, Floyd

The mangled body of Floyd Hall, 38, of near Torchlight, was found on the C & O tracks at the Lick Creek fill at the southern outskirts of Louisa Wednesday morning. Hall, employed on a C & O mason force, was last seen about 11 the night before, walking on the railroad near where his body was found next morning. He evidently was enroute home. Coroner H. S. Young reported that $16.30 in money was found on his person, and a coroner's jury reported he evidently had been killed accidentally by a train. There was no indication of foul play. His body was badly mangles, one army was cut off and the train's impact had unclothed him. Funeral will be held Friday at 2 at the York cemetery at Torchlight where interment is to be made. He is survived by his wife, Ollie West Hall, 2 sons, Charles W. and Woodie Jean, both at home and one sister, Miss Ivory Pearl Hall, of Adams, Hall formerly lived in Floyd county and was a miner before becoming employed on the C & O extra force. Big Sandy News, Aug 18, 1944

 

HOLBROOK, OSCAR

Oscar Holbrook, 55, of route 1, Webbville, died last Friday midnight in a Charleston, WV hospital following an operation for brain tumor. Mr. Holbrook had been seriously ill 3 weeks and was a patient in King's Daughters Hospital in Ashland, one week before being removed to Charleston for the operation. The body was returned to Louisa in the Curtright funeral car and taken to his home on the head of Catt near Brammer Gap where funeral rites were conducted Monday afternoon. Interment was made in the Holbrook family cemetery. Deceased was a son of the late Jonah and Sarah Hicks Holbrook and was born and reared near Webbville. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lucy Kelley Holbrook, 3 daughters, Mrs. Denver Bayes, Holden, WV, Mrs. Curtis Runyon and Miss Ernestine Holbrook at home, 3 sons, Sgt. Herman Holbrook, in the Air Force at Bocarton Field, FL, Sgt. Eugene Holbrook, in the Air Force at Carlsbad, NM and Delano Holbrook at home; 2 sisters, Mrs. Will Young and Mrs. Levi Jones, both of Ohio, Caleb of Whitman, WV, Calvin of Catlettsburg, Luther of Ashland, Charley of Webbville and John Holbrook of Kenova. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

HOLLEY, John

Fort Gay, WV, Aug 9, John H. Holley, 72, died Wednesday morning at 1 at his home in Fort Gay following an illness of 7 months of complications. Funeral rites will be conducted at the home in Fort Gay Friday afternoon at 2 with Rev. Enos Scraggs officiating, and interment will be made in the Billups Gap cemetery. Deceased was born at Saltville, VA, a son of John H. and Margaret Holley. He had lived in Fort Gay the past 8 years and prior to that lived in Louisa, KY. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ethel Holley; one daughter, Mrs. A. D. Watson of Detroit, one son, Malcolm A. Holley of Ashland, KY; 2 sisters, Mrs. William Bamer of Garrett, KY and Mrs. Lou Thompson of Columbus, OH, and a brother, David Holley of Pt. Pleasant, WV. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

HUMPHREY, Audra

Miss Audrea Humphrey, 23,  daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Humphrey of the Bear Creek section, near Buchanan, died at the home of her parents Friday noon after an illness of several months. Funeral was conducted Sunday afternoon at the home of an uncle, Charley Humphrey on Bear Creek with Rev. C. L. Neff, pastor of the Buchanan Methodist Church, officiating and interment was made in the Humphrey family cemetery. Surviving besides the parents are 3 sisters, Betty Louisa, Alice Mae and Martha Lou, all at home and 4 brothers, John B., Raymond and Curtis, all at home and Allen F. Humphrey with the U. S. Army overseas. Big Sandy News, Aug 4, 1944

 

MARSHALL, Josephine (Workman)

The body of Mrs. Josephine Marshall, 41, wife of C. K. Marshall of Lima, OH, who was killed by the Pennsylvania Railroad's Penn-Liberty Limited passenger train in Lima Monday was brought to Louisa Friday and taken to her former home at Fallsburg for interment. Burial rites were conducted by Rev. Dave Hewlett at the Collinsworth cemetery at Fallsburg. Deceased was born and reared near Fallsburg, a daughter of William and Elizabeth Moore Workman. She had lived in Lima 2 years, moving from Columbus and was supervisor of waitresses in the Senate Restaurant at Lima. Her husband is a fireman for the B & O Railway. Surviving besides her husband and parents are 2 sisters, Mrs. Ralph Thomas of Mansfield, OH and Mrs. Herman Cordle of Fallsburg and one brother, Hobart Workman of Fallsburg. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

MCCLURE, Earl

Pvt. Earl N. McClure, son of Mrs. Sallie E. McClure of Huntington and the late Edgar McClure, native of this county, was killed in England by a German robot bomb on Jul 15 according to information received from Washington this week by his mother. He was serving with a Quartermaster Corps Truck Company in England. Robot planes fired from points in France across the Channel on England have killed 4, 735 Britons, injured 14,000 and destroyed or damages 817,000 houses in the first 6 weeks of the attack by the new German weapon, Winston Churchill reported. Through Jul 31, the Germans had fired 5, 340 bombs toward England. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

MCCOY, Claude

Pfc. Claude McCoy, son of Jane Chaffin McCoy of Williamson, formerly of Webb, was killed in action in France Jun 16, his mother has been advised. Pfc. McCoy was one of 4 brothers, scions of a leader of the Hatfield-McCoy feud, serving in the nations' armed forces. They are sons of Mrs. Jane Chaffin McCoy, formerly of Webb, and the late Walter McCoy, a Baldwin-Felts detective who was killed in a mine strike at Matewan in the early 20's. Their mother is the daughter of W. D. Chaffin, late merchant and post master at Webb. Their grandfather, Bud McCoy was a brother of Randall McCoy, leader of the McCoy clan in the Hatfield-McCoy feud that raged along the Kentucky-West Virginia border. The grandfather was killed in the feud. The other 3 brothers are oversea. Sgt. Carl is in Italy, Cpl. Clyde is a prisoner of the Germans having been captured in Tunisia and Pvt. Charles has recently arrived at an overseas post. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

MENHOUSE, Robert

MENHOUSE, Elmer

SHANNON, Robert

Three boys from Kavanaugh, Boyd county, were fatally injured last Saturday afternoon by N & W passenger train No. 15 near Prichard, WV across the river from their homes. The victims, Robert Menhouse, 10, and his brother, Elmer, 14, son of Mr. and Mrs. George H. Menhouse and Robert Shannon, 13, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Shannon all of Kavanaugh. According to Wayne County, WV authorities, the 3 boys were walking on the west-bound track and failed to hear the passenger train bearing down upon them because of a freight train which was passing on the east-bound track. The Menhouse brothers met instant death and the Shannon boy died on the way to a Kenova hospital. Joint funeral rites were conducted Monday at the Christian Baptist Church in Westwood for the Menhouse brothers and burial was made in the Dixon cemetery. Funeral for the Shannon boy was conducted Tuesday at the Kavanaugh Chapel Methodist Church with Rev. Roy Bellomy of Prichard, WV officiating. Big Sandy News, Aug 18, 1944

 

MUNCY, Wade

Warfield, KY--Wade Muncey , 55, widely known Martin county figure, was shot and killed instantly late Saturday by Warfield town marshal Carl Kirk. The shooting took place in front of the Oscar Clevenger store in Warfield. Witnesses, according to the Williamson Daily News, said Muncey had been drinking and drew a gun when the town marshal asked him to go home. The victim reportedly had a pistol in his hand when he was shot. Six bullets entered his body. He was a coal miner and native of Wolf Creek but had lived at Warfield for some time. Big Sandy News, Aug 18, 1944

 

NEW, John B.

John B. New, 51, of Torchlight died Monday noon at his home after a 10 day illness of pneumonia. Funeral rites were conducted at the home Tuesday afternoon and interment made in the family cemetery near Torchlight. Mr. New was born at Inez, a son of the late Thomas and Sarah Bates New, but had lived at Torchlight most of his life. He was never married. Surviving are a sister, Mrs. Marie King of Williamson, and 5 brothers, T. R. New of Torchlight, Victor New of Louisa, Luther New of Royal, WV and George and Paul New both of Williamson. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

PECK, Wallace

Wallace (Watt) Peck, 52, of Fort Gay, WV, died Tuesday at his home of injuries suffered Saturday in a slate fall while he was working in a coal mine in Dehue. Funeral services were held this Thursday afternoon at Tabor Creek Baptist Church with burial in Lycan Cemetery. The body was taken to the residence at Fort Gay at 11 a.m. from the Curtright Funeral Home at Louisa. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Pearl Saulsbury Peck, 4 daughters, Mrs. James Crabtree, of Fort Gay, Mrs. Alma Wellman of Huntington, and Misses Ardieth Fay and Villia Joyce Peck at home; 4 sons, James W. Peck of Fort Gay, Frank Peck of Red Jacket, WV, Private Archie Peck with an Army unit in Italy and Paigie Peck at home. 2 sisters, Mrs. Harry Mounts of Anjean, WV and Mrs. Wye Wellman of Fort Gay, 3 brothers, Walter Peck of Welch, Freelin Peck and Blaine Peck of Logan. Big Sandy News, Aug 25, 1944

 

PRICHARD, Florence (Fitzpatrick)

1876-1944

Mrs. Florence Prichard, 68, wife of Lawrence Prichard of Sciotoville, OH and a native of this county died Monday at her home after a 2 years illness. Deceased was born in this county, Jan 18, 1876, a daughter of James and Elizabeth Damron Fitzpatrick. She was a member of the Baptist Church. She moved to Scioto County, OH, 30 years ago. The body was brought to this county Wednesday for interment in the Maynard family cemetery. Surviving besides her husband are 4 sons, Winfield, Jay and Charles Maynard, of Louisa and Wayne Maynard of Clifford; 6 daughters, Mrs. Grace Sammons and Mrs. Nola LeMaster of Louisa, Mrs. Jessie Pope of Williamsburg, OH, Mrs. violet Hammonds of Clifford, Mrs. Beulah Dingus of McDermott, OH and Mrs. Madge Howard of Sciotoville, OH; 3 brothers, Wayne and James Fitzpatrick of Houston, TX, and Ulysses Fitzpatrick of Huntington and 2 sisters, Mrs. Jennie York and Mrs. Anna Romen of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

RATCLIFF, Dixie

Dixie Ratcliff, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Burns Ratcliff of Patrick, died Jul 29 after a long invalidism of tuberculosis. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1932, when he defeated

 

RATLIFF, Alexander Lackey

Judge Alexander Lackey Ratliff, 62, of the Kentucky Court of Appeals, died Tuesday in a Lexington hospital. He had been a member of the commonwealth's highest tribunal since 1932 when he defeated Simeon Willis, now governor, in the Seventh District. He was a native of Pike County, Judge Ratliff suffered a heart attack early this year and a blood stream infection developed about 2 weeks ago. He was taken to the Lexington hospital and had been held in an oxygen tent. Since his death occurred with 90 days of the November general election, Governor Willis will appoint a successor to serve until a special election can be held in November, 1945. Big Sandy News, Aug 25, 1944

 

REMMELE, Fred

1892-1944

The body of Christian Frederick Remmele, 51, of Ashland, who died Saturday in St. Mary's Hospital in Huntington, was brought to Louisa Monday and interred in Pine Hill Cemetery here. Deceased was born in Louisa Sep 7, 1892, a son of William and Laura Salyer Remmele. He later lived in Paintsville and went to Ashland 16 years ago. He was a veteran employee of the American Rollins Mill Company there. Funeral rites were conducted Monday in the South Ashland Methodist Church with Rev. L. H. Tipton officiating. The funeral party left immediately for Louisa and brief rites were conducted at the grave in Pine Hill Cemetery by Rev. L. M. Rogers, pastor of the Louisa Methodist Church and Rev. Tipton. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Myrtle Remmele, one daughter, Mrs. William Kouns, Ashland, 2 sons, Private Robert Russell and Sergeant William W. Remmele, both serving in the armed forces stationed somewhere in France; the parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Remmele of Louisa, 2 brothers, Norman Remmele, Catlettsburg, and Ernest Remmele of Lansing, MI; 3 sisters, Mrs. Mary Kinstler, Louisa, Mrs. Irma Gault, Hazard, KY and Mrs. Grace Gault of Cincinnati. Big Sandy News, Aug 4, 1944

 

RIGGS, William S.

William S. Riggs, 76, died at the home of a daughter, Mrs. George Shannon of Buchanan, Aug 5. He is survived by 4 other children, R. G. Riggs, E. F. Riggs and F. B. Riggs of Russell, KY, Irene Jackson of Thacker, 4 brothers, Albert of Kenova, Wellington of Wayne, route 1, Lewis Riggs of Ceredo and James Riggs of Akron, OH; 2 sisters, Mrs. Minnie Bloss of North Kenova and Mrs. Viola Workman of Huntington. Funeral services were conducted Sunday afternoon at the Centerville Baptist Church by Rev. U. S. Pinson, with burial in the Riggs Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Aug 18, 1944

 

SAMMONS, Joan

1927-1944

Miss Joan Sammons, 16, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry F. Sammons, died Monday at Oak Ridge Sanitarium, Oak Ridge, TN, after an illness of 5 years. Miss Sammons was born in Louisa, Sep 16, 1927, a daughter of Henry F. and Opal Caines Sammons. The body was returned to Ashland and funeral was conducted Thursday with Rev. Odus Hamilton of Mt. Sterling officiating and interment was made in Ashland. Surviving in addition to the parents are one brother, James Sammons and the grandmothers, Mrs. Sammons and Mrs. Hattie Caines, both of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Aug 18, 1944

 

SPARKS, George Dewey

Pvt. George Dewey Sparks, son of Joel and May Ratcliff Sparks of Clifford, was killed in action in France Jul 23, according to a telegram received by his parents last week. Pvt. Sparks was a grandson of Dan Ratcliff and Rev. William Sparks, well known citizens of the Tug River section of the county. Big Sandy News, Aug 18, 1944

 

VINSON, D. W.

1875-1944

Fort Gay, WV, Aug 3--D. W. (Willie) Vinson, 68, farmer and prominent citizen of near Glenhayes, died at 12:45 a. m. Monday in St. Mary's Hospital in Huntington of injuries sustained at his farm on Tug river 3 miles below Glenhayes Thursday of last week. When his saddle horse came to the barn unmounted, Mrs. Vinson became alarmed and went to search for her husband. She found him lying, unconscious, beside a path in a pasture where he had gone to get his saddle mare to ride to the R. F. D. box for the mail. He was rushed to the Huntington hospital in the Curtright ambulance from Louisa and it was found he had suffered serious injured to his neck and back, apparently by falling from the horse. Funeral rites were conducted from the home on Tug River 3 miles from Glenhayes, Wednesday afternoon at 2. The Vinson Masonic Lodge of Fort Gay, of which the deceased was a member and past master, conducted its ritual at the grave. Mr. Vinson was born near Fort Gay, Sep 14, 1875, a son of Lafayette F. and Amanda Frasher Vinson, pioneer Wayne county citizens. He had been a member of the Methodist Church 44 years. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Anna Williams Vinson, one daughter, Mrs. James Rowley, of Huntington, 2 sons, Pvt. Lewis Edward Vinson, U. S. Army Air Force stationed at Scott Field, IL and Radioman First Class Lafayette T. Vinson serving aboard a ship in the Atlantic and by one brother, M. B. Vinson of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Aug 4, 1944

 

WALLER, Betty (Diamond)

Mrs. Betty Waller, wife of the late C. M. Waller, formerly of this county, died at her home at Fairfax, OK, on Thursday, Jul 27, according to word received here by relatives. Mrs. Waller was formerly Miss Betty Diamond, daughter of the late Ben Diamond of Yatesville. Surviving are the following children, Earl Waller of Chandler, OK, Nibert Waller of Oklahoma City, OK, Raymond Waller of Los Angeles, CA, Milton Waller in U. S. service, and Mrs. Agnes Smith of Los Angeles and 4 brothers, Arden Diamond of Florida, Tom Diamond of Huntington, WV, Cove Diamond of Yatesville and Chester Diamond of Columbus, OH. Funeral services were held Tuesday at the home in Fairfax and interment made there. Big Sandy news, Aug 4, 1944

 

WELLS, H. D.

D. Wells, 75, of Fullerton, Greenup county, a half brother of Charles Segraves of Louisa and Mrs. Laura Green of Blaine, died Monday of a heart attack at his home. He had been in failing health for 2 years. Mr. Wells moved to Greenup county 38 years ago and was a retired steelworker. He was an active member of the Fullerton Christian Church. His wife, Cynthia Osborn, preceded him in death. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

WILLIAMS, Sarah (Pelphrey)

Mrs. Sarah Pelphrey Williams, 69, widow of the late Rev. H. W. Williams of Charley and Louisa, died Wednesday Aug 2 in a Paintsville hospital. She suffered a stroke last February about the time her husband died here, and had never recovered. She was a patient in a Louisa hospital before going to West Van Lear to live with a brother, Milton Pelphrey. Funeral rites were conducted last Thursday in the Paintsville Freewill Baptist Church. Deceased was born at East Point, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Pelphrey. Her first husband was Scott Martin. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

WILSON, Betty (Hogston)

1863-1944

Betty (Hogston) Wilson, 75, died Wednesday afternoon of last week at her home on Bells Trace, following a brief illness. She was born Oct 16, 1863 at Saltville, VA. She was married to William Wilson Dec 21, 1899. She leaves her husband, one son, Glenn and 4 sisters, Mrs. Belle Blankenship of Ashland, Mrs. Ann McClung of Hitchins, Mrs. Nannie Hall of Leon, KY, and Mrs. Ollie Magney of Texas and many friends and relatives to mourn her loss. She had been a member of the Christian Church for many years. Funeral was conducted Saturday at the Sandy Valley Church by Rev. Alonzo Outland of Grayson. Interment was in the Riffe Cemetery at Bells Trace under the direction of the Cox Funeral Home of Grayson. Big Sandy News, Aug 11, 1944

 

YOUNG, James Curtis

James Curtis Young, 11 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Morton Young, of Webbville, died at the Young home Friday noon following a 2 day illness of complications. Funeral rites were conducted Wednesday morning in the Webbville church with Rev. C. A. Webb of Raceland officiating. Young was born at Barrett, WV, but had resided at Webbville the past 6 years. He was a student in the 6th grade at the Webbville school. He is survived by his parents, 2 sisters, Louise at home and Julia of St. Anna, CA,  4 brothers, Webb, Paul, Harry and Richard, all at home. Big Sandy News, Aug 4, 1944

 


SEPTEMBER 1944

 


 

BARTRAM, Jerry

Mrs. Jerry Bartram of Fort Gay, received a telegram from the War Department this week, stating her husband, S-Sgt. Jerry Bartram was killed in action in France on Aug 9th. He was with the 83rd Inf. Div. Sergeant Bartram was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Bartram of Fort Gay. He had been overseas since last April and took part in the invasion of France. He has a brother, Pfc. Ronald J. Bartram now serving with an A. A. A. Bn. somewhere in England. Big Sandy News, Sep 8,  1944

 

CRABTREE, Dewitt

DeWitt Crabtree, 9 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Barney Crabtree of Paddle Creek, Wayne County, WV, died at his home Aug 26th from tetanus caused by a nail would in the foot. Funeral services were held from the Hopewell Methodist Church of Joels Branch, Rev. Floyd Pelfrey and Rev. Bascom Thompson officiating. He is survived by his parents, 2 sisters, Misses Dorothy Lee and Doris B., 4 brothers, Wayne, Dewey, Delbert and Clyde, all at home; 2 grandmothers, Bessie Dean of Garret Creek, WV. Funeral and burial was under the direction of Curtright Funeral Home of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Sep 1, 1944

 

EWERS, O. C.

C. Ewers, 50, supervisor of tracks for the Paintsville district, Ashland Division, Chesapeake and Ohio Railway Co., died at 5:30 p.m. in a Huntington hospital from injuries received in a wreck on the Big Sandy Division four miles south of Louisa on August 30, 1944. Mr. Ewers was fatally injured while riding on the rear end of a passenger train which collided with a manifest freight train, eastbound.  The passenger train was en route from Ashland to Pikeville. Also seriously injured was Mose Daniels, Ashland, engineer of the passenger train, who was thrown from the train in the crash and suffered a skull fracture.  He is a patient at the Louisa General Hospital where attendants report his condition as improved. Mr. Ewers was a native of Norwood, Va., and had been in the Chesapeake and Ohio Ry service since the age of 17. Funeral services were held at 8 p.m. Saturday in the Curtright Funeral Home, Louisa.  The funeral party left Louisa Sunday morning for his home in Norwood where interment was made. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Emma Stapleton Ewers of Paintsville, four daughters, Mrs. J. A. Taylor, Gladston, Va.; Misses Doris and Grace Ewers at home, and Alice Ewers, Charlottesville, Va.; four sons, Ossie Ewers, Hansford, Calif.; Sergeant William Ewers stationed with the U.S. Army in Louisiana; Private Bernard Ewers, Camp Barkeley, Texas, and Wallace Ewers at home, one brother, A. T. Ewers, Paintsville. Big Sandy News, Sep 8, 1944

 

FERGUSON, Lizzie Ann

Mrs. Lizzie Ann Ferguson, 79, widow of the late S. M. Ferguson, died at her home on Mill Creek, near Fort Gay, Sep 11 at 5 p.m. She was the daughter of the late Warren Robinson and Sarah Ann Frazier Robinson of Fort Gay. Funeral services were held Thursday morning at the Peters Chapel on Lick Creek, the Rev. J. C. Hager pastor of the Louisa First Baptist Church, officiating. She had been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, since early girlhood. She is survived by one daughter, Miss Norma Ferguson at home, 3 sons, Lindsey Ferguson of Louisa, Newell Ferguson of Ashland, Reynolds Ferguson of Mill Creek, 5 sisters, Mrs. Lydia Wellman and Mrs. Charter Wellman, Louisa, Mrs. Amanda Lycans, Mrs. Dora Spears, and Mrs. Cussie Peters of Fort Gay. Burial took place in the Robinson Cemetery under the direction of the Curtright Funeral Home of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Sep 15, 1944

 

HALE, James

James Hale, 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charley Hale, of Bear Creek, this county, was killed in an auto accident at Sunbury, OH, Aug 17th. Hale went to Sunbury to live 3 years ago and was employed at the Curtis-Wright Airplane factory at Columbus. Interment took place in the Sunbury Cemetery. He is survived by 2 sisters, Mrs. Isaac Adams and Miss Mary Hale of Sunbury, 3 brothers, Junior Hale of Sunbury and Charles Hale of Buchanan, KY and Warren G. Hale now serving with the Army in France. Big Sandy News, Sep 1, 1944

 

HALL, Julia Belle

Miss Julia Belle Hall, 20, daughter of Mrs. Garnette Bartram Hall and the late Hoover Hall, passed away at her home in Portsmouth, VA, Aug 20, 1944. She had lived in Portsmouth, VA for the past 2 years. Born and reared in Louisa. The body came from Portsmouth to Fort Gay on a N & W train and was taken to the Curtright Funeral Home here. Funeral services were held from the Methodist church Wednesday at 2:30, the Rev. William Burgess officiating. Burial was held in the Davis Cemetery on the Point. She was a member of the First Methodist Church for the past 7 years. She leaves her mother, one sister, Anna Jean, one brother, seaman Hoover Hall, Jr., in the U. S. Navy. Big Sandy News, Sep 1, 1944

 

LOAR, H. B.

Venerable H. B. Loar, 87, of Fort Gay died Sunday at 9:20 p.m. in a Louisa hospital. He was a son of Lafe Harman and Elizabeth Workman Loar. Born and reared near Fort Gay, he spent his entire life there. His wife, died a number of years ago. Funeral was held Wednesday at the Tabor's Creek Baptist Church with Revs. Ben Curnutte and J. C. Hager, officiating. Mr. Loar had been a member of the Baptist Church for the past 73 years. Services at the graveside were also conducted by the Wayne IOOF lodge. Mr. Loar is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Fred Crabtree and Mrs. H. W. Lycans of Fort Gay; 16 grandchildren, Chesley A. Lycan of Louisa, Orval H. Lycan, Ashland, Isabelle L. Bowling, Morgantown, WV, Gilbert L. Lycan, Charlotte NC, Milton S. Lycan, Morgantown, Amy Allen, Manhattan, KS, Grace L. Waller, Fort Gay, WV, Ralph Lycan, U. S. Coast Guard, Mrs. B. R. Lakin, Indianapolis, IN, Jim Crabtree, Fort Gay, WV, Frank Crabtree, Indianapolis, Harland Crabtree, Indianapolis, Bromley Crabtree, U. S. Marines, Burl Crabtree, U. S. Army, Virginia C. Fawcette, Manhassett, Long Island, NY, and Lucy Belle Loar, Fort Gay. He is also survived by 24 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Sep 15, 1944

 

LYON, Herman

Guy Lyon of Columbus, OH, formerly of Keaton, this county, was informed this week by the War Department that his son, Pvt. Herman R. Lyon, had been killed in action in France Aug 7th. He was with the 9th Division Medical Battalion. He enlisted in Sept 1940, and served overseas since the first invasion of North Africa. He also took part in the Italian Campaign. After the surrender of Italy he was sent to England for a rest. Pvt. Lyon also took part in the invasion of France. He received his training at Fort Bragg, NC. He has a brother, Howard in overseas service. Lyon is a grandson of Mary C. and the late Frank Lyon of Blaine and a nephew of Mrs. J. C. Wright also of Blaine. Big Sandy News, Sep 8, 1944

 

STURGILL, Homer

Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Sturgill, route 2, Ashland, have received a telegram from the War Department that their son, Pfc. Homer Sturgill, 36, previously reported missing was killed in action in France on Aug 16. Pfc. Sturgill enlisted in the service Mar 31, 1941 and received his basic training at Camp Shelby, Miss. He has been stationed in England for the past 2 years. He was assigned to the Quartermaster Company car. Surviving in addition to his parents are 4 sisters, Mrs. Clarence Robertson, Mrs. Alfred Johnson and Mrs. Fred Conley, all of Ashland, and Mrs. W. G. Pinkerton of Louisa. Two brothers also survive, Pfc. Willie Sturgill serving overseas in France and Clabe Sturgill at home. Big Sandy News, Sep 22, 1944

 

WELLMAN, Erastus

1859-1944

Died Wednesday in a Huntington hospital Erastus Wellman, 85, former of route 1, Fort Gay, WV, after an illness of 2 weeks. His wife was the late Victory Wellman, who died 14 years ago. He was born at Fort Gay, Dec 27, 1859, a son of the late Allen Wellman and Margaret Morris Wellman. He had been a member of the Baptist Church for 60 years and was a member of the Mason Vinson Lodge No. 66. The funeral was held Friday at 2 at the Spruce Creek Baptist Church with the Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. Burial was in the Wellman Cemetery under the direction of the Curtright Funeral Home. Mr. Wellman is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Boyd Frasher of Huntington, Mrs. Anthony Bellomy and Mrs. Ballard Boys of Fort Gay, one son, Ollie Wellman of Fort Gay, 2 sisters, Mrs. Emily Booth of Wayne, WV and Mrs. C. W. Osborn of route 1, Fort Gay; 2 brothers, Virgil Wellman and James both of Huntington, WV. Big Sandy News, Sep 22, 1944

 

YOUNG, Martin Harrison

Martin Harrison, 57, well known resident of Houckville, Lawrence County, died Thursday in a Lexington hospital. Mr. Young, a son of the late Oliver and Elinore Prince Young, had lived near Houckville all of his life. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Chloe Grim Young, 6 daughters, Miss Maggie Young of Ashland, Mrs. John J. Nathels of Shirley, KY, Misses Julia, Velma, Ethel, and Ellen Young all at home, 4 sons, Peary of Ashland, Pfc. Jesse Young in England, Cpl. Taylor Yong in England, Pfc. Donald Young, New River, NC, 3 sisters, Mrs. Sara Cassell, Ashland, Mrs. Fred Ball, Mrs. Elizabeth Ball both of Accoville, WV and One brother, James Young of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Sep 22, 1944

 

The microfilm only went thru Sep 22, 1944, there were no copies for the rest of the year.

 


 

OCTOBER 1944

 


The microfilm only went thru Sep 22, 1944, there were no copies for the rest of the year.

 


 

NOVEMBER 1944

 


 

The microfilm only went thru Sep 22, 1944, there were no copies for the rest of the year.

 


 

DECEMBER 1944


 

The microfilm only went thru Sep 22, 1944, there were no copies for the rest of the year.