JANUARY 1919

 

ARMSTRONG, Hattie

ARMSTONG, Sanford

HOLLINSWORTH, Stella A.

HOLLINSWORTH, Louis

WALKER, Mrs. M. A.

 

Horrible accident near Catlettsburg Gas Company’s Plant

The Victims

Mrs. M. A. Walker, aged 40 years

Hattie Armstrong aged 14

Sanford Armstrong aged 12

Stella A. Hollinsworth, aged 11

Louis Hollinsworth aged 8

The Hollinsworth children are children of L. P. Hollinsworth, foreman of the gasoline plant of the United Gas Fuel Company located above 2 and ½ miles above Catlettsburg on the Kentucky side of the Big Sandy River. The other 2 children are children of Charles Armstrong, a neighbor of the Hollinsworth family. Mrs. M. A. Walker lived up the hollow from the scene of the conflagration.

 

One woman and 4 children were burned to death Monday evening near Catlettsburg and the home at which they were was destroyed by flames. The parents of 2 of the children were in the house at the time the fire started ill from the effects of influenza and are in a serious condition because of the shock and the exposure.

 

Just how the fire started is a mystery and Mr. and Mrs. L. P. Hollinsworth, 2 of whose children were cremated and whose house was destroyed by the fire are not able to be questioned concerning the affair and Mrs. Walker and the children were so badly burned that they were dead, or almost so when neighbors reached the scene of one of the worst tragedies in the history of Boyd County.

 

The house which was burned was a small cottage which stood about 150 feet from the railroad siding on which was standing a gasoline tank car which was being filled from the gasoline manufacturing plant of the United Gas Fuel Company near. There were 2 men engaged in supervising the filling the tank but they seemed unable to throw any light on how the fire started. Apparently, however, the children and Mrs. Walker were on the porch of the house and were coved with fumes from the gasoline when their clothing caught fire, burning them so they were almost unrecognizable. Mr. and Mrs. Hollingsworth being indoors were not affected by the gasoline fumes and were unable to make their escape from the burning house without burns. The mental and physical shock which they sustained, however, was very great and today they are critically ill, especially Mrs. Hollingsworth, who was nearing maternity.

 

Neighbors who rushed to the scene were unable to give any assistance in saving the house owing to the extreme heat and the rapidity with which the flames spread. Officials of the Gas Company while in the dark as to the true cause of the tragedy are of the opinion that the fire originated in or near the house from gasoline fumes as the gasoline tank did not explode and the fire on it was confined to the top of the dome of the tank.

 

Physicians from Ashland, Catlettsburg, Huntington and Kenova were hastily summoned by neighbors of the stricken families as soon as it was realized what had happened. The remains of Mrs. Walker and the Hollingsworth and Armstrong children were burned beyond recognition. The Armstrong children were at the Hollingsworth home playing at the time they met their death and Mrs. Walker was there assisting in the care of the family, the father and mother of which were too ill to do so themselves. The Hollinsworth family moved to Boyd County from Carter County several years ago. The Armstrong family resided in Catlettsburg. It is believed that Mrs. Walker met her death while trying to save the lives of the young charges. Ashland Independent. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 3, 1919

 

ADKINS, Arthur

Arthur Adkins, formerly of Potter, this county, met an accidental death in a coal mine near Logan, WV on Wednesday of this week. He was electrocuted. He was 26 years old and is survived by his wife and one child. The funeral and burial will be held Friday in Logan. Mr. Adkins had been for some time a member of the church. His mother, Mrs. Kate Adkins and her daughters, who live in Louisa, left Thursday to attend the burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 17. 1919

 

BACK, Ora Wesley

On Dec the 24th the death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Back, 868 Bennett Street, Marion, OH and took their son, Ora Wesley. Before he died he expressed a hope in Christ and said Jesus will go with me all the way. He was 18 years and 6 months old. He was laid to rest in the Marion Cemetery. A father, mother and 3 sisters survive. Death was due to influenza followed by pneumonia. His former home was Mattie, Lawrence County, KY. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 3, 1919

 

BARRETT, Virgil

Mrs. James H. Woods received a message Saturday announcing the death of her brother, Mr. Virgil Barrett, of Richmond, VA. His death was due to influenza from which he has been suffering only a few days. Burial took place at Richmond. Mr. Barrett and wife were in Louisa last summer visiting Mrs. Woods. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 10, 1919

 

BERRY, Mrs. Joe (Savannah Travis)

The wife of Joe Berry died in Ohio a few days ago and the body was brought back for burial on Little Blaine. She was a Travis and was a good woman. Husband and children survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 17, 1919

 

BOXLEY, Robert

Robert Boxley died suddenly at his home in Roanoke, VA Monday. Heart disease was the cause. He was a contractor and a brother of Neb Boxley of Fort Gay, WV. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 17, 1919

 

CALL, Margaret

Pikeville, KY—Mrs. Margaret Call passed away at the Call home at Yeager Thursday. She had been a victim of stomach trouble for some time. The remains were brought to Pikeville to be interred in the family plot. Funeral services were held at the home of her grandson, W. P. Call. Services were in charge of Dr. James F. Record. Mrs. Call was 68 years old, she is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Rebecca Cornett, this city, Miss Lizzie Call at home, and Mrs. Charlie Compton of Catlettsburg and by 5 sons, John and Will of this city, Jim of Hellier, Andrew and Hibbard who reside near Yeager and Grover who is with the U. S. Troops in France. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan10, 1919

 

CHADWICK, Mrs. James

The widow of James Chadwick, deceased, an aged woman living near Cadmus, this county, died Sunday. She was the mother of Thomas Chadwick and was known as one of the good women of this community in which she had lived for a great many years. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

CHAFFIN, Oscar

Many friends in Lawrence County, KY, will be sorry to hear of the death of Oscar Chaffin which occurred Dec 2, 1918 at Columbus, OH. He was a son of W. S. Chaffin, who lived on Big Blaine, near Irad. He was married to Julia Chapman 10 years ago and moved to Ohio and for the late 2 years had lived in Columbus. He leaves a wife, one little son, 8 years old, 4 sisters, and a host of friends to mourn the loss. Funeral services were held at his home and all were present except 2 sisters and one brother. He was laid to rest in the cemetery near Columbus to await the resurrection. He was 28 years old. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 17, 1919

 

CHAPMAN, Charles Ben

Charles Ben Chapman passed away at his home at Normal at 10:30 Sunday morning, his death resulting from bronchial pneumonia following influenza. Mr. Chapman was 30 years of age. He was a telegraph operator employed by the C & O and had charge of the Clyffeside tower. As an employee he was valued by the company for his strict adherence to duty, and his wholesome nature and genial disposition made him a favorite with the railroad men. Mr. Chapman is survived by his wife and 2 children, all of whom are very ill of influenza. His father, Ed Chapman, also survived. On Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 the funeral service was conducted at the Ashland cemetery where interment was made. The Masonic Lodge of Catlettsburg conducted the burial services. Ed. Chapman and his family formerly loved on Lick Creek near ?? …. Moved to Normal…. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 10, 1919

 

CHEEK, Mrs. Andrew

Mrs. Andrew Cheek died at her home at Busseyville Tuesday night of tuberculosis. The burial was arranged to take place Thursday afternoon. She leaves a husband, but no children. Mrs. Cheek was Miss Opal Holt, daughter of the late Bernard Holt . She was a faithful member of the ?? Church. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 3, 1919

 

COPLEY, Albert

W. A. Copley died last Monday night at his home at Potter a few miles below Louisa. He had been ill for quite a while with Bright’s disease and during the past few weeks had gradually grown weaker. He was a citizen of Louisa several years and also lived in Ashland some time, later moving to his farm at Potter where he spent the last years of his life. He served as a member of the Lawrence county Board of Elections for many years and by his death a vacancy is made. The funeral was conducted by Rev. H. B. Hewlett and the interment was made in the family burial ground. Mr. Copley was 68 years old. He is survived by his second wife and 11 children, as follows; Mrs. Lindsey B aker of Kermit, WV, Mrs. G. W. Montague of Covington, Mrs. Alden Bryan of Barboursville, WV, Mrs. Carlos Lambert of Portsmouth, Mrs. w. H. Horn of Ashland and one son, J. W. Copley of Potter. The children by his second wife are Wood, Lois, Alene, Lucy and Edna all at home. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 24, 1919

 

FRAZIER, Samuel

Wayne Co., WV—Samuel Frazier, aged 85, died at the home of his son Okey at this place. The last of a big family has fallen. He served through the civil war on the confederate side and was a brave soldier. He had long been a member of the Methodist Church. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

GOODMAN, Frank

The body of Frank Goodman, of Garrett, Floyd County, was found near Ashland Sunday with 2 bullet wounds. He was about 23 years old and was a mine boss. There is no suspicion of robbery, As $25 was found on his body. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

GREEN, Sarah A.

Mrs. Sarah A. Green, of Boyd County, drank carbolic acid and died a few hours later last Thursday. She was the daughter of Mr. and Ms. G. W. Renfro. She was highly regarded by all. Her husband, Thomas Mart Green, died about 3 months ago of influenza and it is thought grief over his death caused the rash act. Four little children survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

GRUBBS

Blaine, KY—We were sorry to hear of the death of Willie Grubbs’ baby. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 3, 1919

 

HAGER, Judge S. W.

Judge S. W. Hager, Ashland citizen, died Saturday morning at his home in Owensboro, KY, following an illness of over a year’s duration due to a nervous breakdown. The remains arrived in Ashland on Sunday afternoon and were taken to the home of S. P. Hager where the funeral services were held Monday morning. The pastor of the Christian Church at Owensboro of which Judge Hager was an active member had charge of the services assisted by Rev. Donald Ford, pastor of the First Christian Church, Ashland. Judge Hager was a nephew of Mrs. Sam P. Hager and cousin of Judge John S. Hager, Edgar B. Hager and W. C. Hager of Ashland, was prior to going to Owensboro, engaged in the clothing business in Ashland. Upon going to Owensboro Mr. Hager engaged in the newspaper business becoming owner and publisher of the Owensboro Inquirer which became one of the most prominent democratic publications in the state. Mr. Hager using it as a medium to advance the cause of the Democratic party in the councils of which he took a leading part. Judge Hager at the time of his death was chairman of the State Workman’s Compensation Board and it was while attending a meeting of the board at Frankfort about a year ago that he was seized with the illness which resulted in his death. Judge Hager served as state treasurer and auditor and was the Democratic nominee for governor in 1907. He also served for several years as judge of his home county.

 

Mrs. Hager and 2 sons survive, Bruce, who was associated in the newspaper business with his father in Owensboro and Lawrence, who is in France, serving as a lieutenant with the American Army and to whom was sent a cablegram last week advising him of his father’s serious condition but who evidently had not received same as no word has been heard from him since. Wilbur S. Hager was born in Salyersville, KY in 1858, being a son of William and Phoebe Hager, pioneer citizens of the Big Sandy Valley, whose sterling character did much to instill in the minds and hearts of the sturdy people of that section of the state the principles of right, justice and the love and fear of God. The characteristics of his parents were plainly marked Wilber Hager and to him and them the state owes much for the splendid civic and religious influence which they exerted. The part which Judge Hager took in the political affairs of his home county, state and nation was a very progressive one and the name of no man in Kentucky is better known in Kentucky politics than that of Judge S. W. Hager, upon whom his party conferred many honors in addition to those already mentioned among which was the chairmanship of the state committees of which he was in charge of many of the state campaigns, a work that always resulted in additional prestige to his ability, honesty and sagacity. Judge Hager was a member of the various Masonic bodies in Ashland by which he was honored by the highest offices within their gift. Ashland Independent. Big Sandy news, Friday, Jan 3, 1919

 

HARDY, Dan

Dan Hardy, 38, died in Huntington after an attack of pneumonia and pleurisy. He was born in Wayne County and worked in Huntington for several years. He was the son of William Hardy of Wayne. Big Sandy news, Friday, Jan 3, 1919

 

HEWLETT, Mrs. Burch

Mrs. Burch Hewlett died at her home at Yatesville Sunday night, after an illness of a few weeks. She leaves a husband and children, the youngest only 7 weeks old. She was a daughter of H. B. Salters. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 10, 1919

 

JOHNS, Lindsay P.

A message was received Saturday by Dr. Jagers stating that her nephew Lindsay P. Johns was dead in Siberia. She left at once for Winchester to be with his parents. Capt. Johns had been stationed in the Philippines before going to Siberia. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John G. Johns of Winchester. They formerly lived in Prestonsburg. His mother was Mrs. Frances Jones Cecil of Ashland before her marriage to Mr. Johns. She is a sister of Dr. Jagers and Miss Hattie Jones. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 17, 1919

 

KENDRICK, John

Pikeville, KY—Relatives in this city received the sad news last week of the death of John Kendrick which occurred Christmas eve at Baltimore, MD where he had a position with the government. Death was due to influenza and its after effects. Mr. Kendrick was the oldest son of Prof. T. J. Kendrick, principal of Pikeville High and Graded School. Prof. and Mrs. Kendrick attended the funeral and burial which took place at Honaker, WV on Sunday. Mr. Kendrick was in the prime of young manhood being about 28 years old. His wife survives. Big Sandy news, Friday, Jan 10, 1919

 

LAWSON, Landon H.

Landon H. Lawson, aged about 45, died at the home of his sister, Mrs. Hi Williamson at Williamson, WV. Death was due to complication of diseases. Mr. Lawson had been in poor health for some time past and the end was not unexpected. The remains were brought to his boyhood home on John’s Creek for funeral and burial which took place Tuesday afternoon. Mr. Lawson was a Mason. Several Pikeville Mason went to Johns Creek Tuesday to take part in the funeral and burial ceremony. Mr. Lawson was united in marriage several years ago to Miss Dixie Scott, daughter of the late John Scott and a sister to Dick Scott of McVeigh and T?? Commissioner James A. Scott of Frankfort. Mrs. Lawson preceded her husband in death by several years. Mr. Lawson leaves one child, a daughter, Miss Lucille who is a most lovable girl. He was a brother of Mrs. Tom Williamson. Mr. Lawson was a former representative of Pike County in the Kentucky Legislature. He also served??? Term as sheriff for his county…. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 10, 1919

 

LOAR, Fannie (Hager)

Buchanan, KY, Jan 15th. Another noble woman has been called to lay down the mortal and take up the immortal. Mrs. Fannie Hager Loar, wife of Oliver Loar, who resided opposite Fuller’s Station, on the Big Sandy River, in Wayne county, W. After a long continued illness, passed to her final reward at her late home, Dec ??, 1918. She was born in Virginia, and was the daughter of John Hager who moved to Hager Hill, Johnson County, shortly after the Civil War. Her mother was Rhoda Godsey whose family was among the leading ones of Virginia. She was married to Oliver Loar about 1870. Unto them 3 children were born, 2 boys, Harmon, who lost his life in a railroad accident several years ago, and Edgar who lived on the home place, where he and his good wife ministered kindly to his mother in her last days. A daughter, Jessie, who married George Vinson, of Wayne, WV and who passed away several years ago. She also became the foster mother of a young lady, Miss Dockie Whitt, who grew into a beautiful Christian character and who was as faithful and loving to her foster mother as her own daughter could have been. She also preceded Mrs. Loar to the Great Beyond passing away a few years ago. One sister, Josephine Davis and one brother, James Henry Hager also preceded her across the river. She leaves 2 brothers, John Hager of Bristol, TN and D. Mart Hager, formerly of Hager Hill, but now of Cliff, Floyd County, KY and 2 sisters, Mrs. Julia Jayne of Flat Gap and Mrs. Louisa Walker, of Paintsville. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

LUTHER, Barbara Rebecca (Stuck)

1835-1919

Barbara Rebecca Stuck was born near the mouth of Whites Creek, on Jan 24, 1835, died at Shoals, WV, Jan 11, 1919, aged 83 years, 11 months an 17 days. She was married to Wesley Harmon Sep 19, 1854. To this union were born 2 children, Solomon Harmon of Shoals, WV and David Harmon of Chanute, KS. Her husband, Wesley Harmon died Apr 19, 1862. She was married to David H. Luther Oct 5, 1865. To this union 7 children were born, all of whom are now living. She united with the Amazetta Methodist church at the age of 14 years and had lived a faithful Christian life for about 70 years. As sister Luther grew in years she grew more in grace and knowledge and in her last hours she never lost faith in her Savior. She was buried from the Newcomb Church, Pastor J. C. Simpkins and Rev. J. s. Puckett conducted the funeral services after which her body was laid to rest in the Bowen Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

MARCUM, William

William Marcum was born in Lawrence County, KY, Jun 6, 1894 and was suddenly called to the great beyond Dec 7, 1918. William was a son of Pharoah and Emma Marcum and was a coal miner and was working in the mines at Sesser, IL, when he met his sad fate between 2 coal cars far down in the earth and far from home and friends except Mr. Robert Evans, whom he had worked with in Ohio and went to Sesser, IL with him. He took his remains back to his home in Ohio where he was buried near his home, this being his request some time ago. He was an honest, sober young man, jolly and courteous in his manner and made many friends wherever he went. Death came at an unexpected moment and his spirit fled to the God who gave it. He leaves father, mother, 2 sisters, 2 brothers, and many friends. He had been in the U. S. service and was discharged and came home. He is now discharged from the ward of conflicts of this life and gone home to meet Norah G., Pauline, and Frank and many friends that loved him here on earth. The writer knew him from childhood and to know him was to love him. Weep not, William is at rest. A. H. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 3, 1919

 

MEAD, Henry

Henry Mead, age 73, died Saturday near the mouth of Greasy Creek, Johnson County, where he had lived for many years. He is survived by his wife and several grown sons and daughters. The funeral was conducted by Rev. H. B. Hewlett…..the rest is torn out. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

MIDDAUGH, Guy

Guy Middaugh, son of Mr. and Mrs. L. M. Middaugh, passed away Wednesday evening at his home here. His death was caused from pneumonia and he had only been ill a week. He had ever been strong and healthy, would not have been 17 years old until next Mar 21st and weighed 180 pounds. His mind as well as body was that of a man and his character and habits were of the best. He occupied a clerical place with the C & O Railway. His body was taken to Paintsville for burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

MILLER, Jim

Jim Miller, son of Mack Miller, of Georges Creek, died at Hellier of pneumonia following influenza. The body was brought to Georges Creek this county and buried Sunday afternoon in the Swetnam graveyard where he had 6 children buries. His wife is very ill of influenza at Hellier. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 24, 1919

 

OSBURN, John Samuel

Wayne Co., WV—John Samuel Osburn, for a number of yeas member of the county court, died recently at his home on Napier Ridge, Stonewall district. He had been in bad health for several years and his death had been expected for some time. He was one of the pillars of Stonewall district and in his younger days a very active man. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

POTTER, Mrs. George

Mrs. George Potter died at her home at Zelda, this county, Sunday evening and was buried Tuesday. The husband and a child 8 years old survive. She was a Miss Quillan, of Fullerton, Greenup County before her marriage and was an excellent woman. The funeral was preached by Rev. A. H. Miller of the Methodist Protestant Church. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

PRESTON, Cecil

The 20 year old son of Bant Preston died of pneumonia near the mouth of Georges Creek Tuesday. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 17, 1919

 

ROBINSON, Martin L.

Attorney M. L. Robinson died Wednesday in Paintsville. He had been sick and was thought to be recovering, when some member of the family went in and found him dead in his chair. He lived at Offutt until a few years ago when he moved to Paintsville and has since been practicing his profession there. He is survived by his wife, 3 sons and 3 daughters, one of whom is Mrs. Mont Holt. Two sons are in the army. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 24, 1919

 

SALYER, Jay H.

An accident that resulted in the death of one man and the injury of 3 others occurred a the Kentucky Solvay plant Monday evening when a 2 inch pipe filled with ammonia gas exploded and Jay H. Salyer, an employee there was struck on the head by a flying timber and so badly injured that he died Tuesday. Others who were either gassed or burned through not necessarily serious were John Warner, J. M. Graybill and Harold Vaughn. In the death of Mr. Salyer the Solvay loses a valuable man and Boyd County a most worthy citizen. He was born in Johnson County and was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lou Salyer of Normal and was 25 years of age. He leaves to mourn his death a devoted wife, who was before marriage Miss Rachel Wells of Buchanan, Lawrence County, also 2 bright little children, Margaret Bernice and Jay, Jr. Mr. Salyer, with his little family lived at Norma and that entire neighborhood is chocked and grieved over his untimely death. Besides the above mentioned he is survived by 5 sisters, Mrs. Alvin Sparks of Hoods Creek, Mrs. Flem Stanley of Van Lear, Mrs. Thorn Galliher, Mrs. Alex Martin and Mrs. Jake Meade, all of Normal. Also the following brothers, Jasper, Jerry, Herbert, John and Hubert, who are in France and Albert the young. Mr. Salyer was recently converted and joined the Baptist Church. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

SAVAGE, Watt

Sergt. Watt Savage, of Hitchins, age 35 years, was shot and mortally wounded by a drunken Negro while walking along a street in Louisville. The wounded soldier lived 12 hours after being shot. He said a drunken Negro stumbles against him and when he remonstrated the Negro drew a revolver and shot him. The bullet penetrated his right lung. His cousin, Corp. G. B. Savage, who was with him, escaped a similar fate by seeking safety behind a tree. James Stallard, Negro, was arrested and lodged in jail charged with the murder. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 3, 1919

 

TAYLOR, Frank Bennett

Frank Bennett Taylor of Greenup, aged 19 years, was drowned Sunday morning while skating on the backwater near his home. His body was recovered within a short time after his death. Young Taylor was one of Greenup’s brightest and finest boys. He was a son of Mrs. Sallie Bennett Young and had but recently returned home from Cincinnati where he was a member of the S.A.T.C. which he entered in the hope that he would be quickly prepared to enter the great war. Frank Bennett was a nephew of Judge J. B. Bennett. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 10, 1919

 

TAYLOR, James

Pikeville, KY—James Taylor probably the best known and one of the oldest citizens of this county passed away at his farm near Coal Run shortly after midnight Thursday. Mr. Taylor had been sick for several days of stomach trouble and a complication of diseases. His age was 80 years. Mr. Taylor was numbered among Pike County;s most prosperous farmers and his home at Coal Run is one of the most beautiful farms on the river. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 10, 1919

 

TAYLOR, Mrs. W. M.

The News made very brief mention last week of the death of Mrs. W. M. Taylor, which occurred just as we were starting to print the paper. She was the wife of the sheriff of Lawrence county. The lived at the James W. Shannon place less than 2 miles from Louisa. Mrs. Taylor became sick on Wednesday night, but was apparently much better the next morning, well enough for Mr. Taylor to come to his office in Louisa. He returned home earlier than usual, however, fearing that she might have another attack. When he reached there he found that she had suddenly become unconscious and his little 9 year old daughter had started over to call Mrs. J. B. McClure. Mr. Taylor got a physician as quickly as possible, but his wife lived only a short time. Uremic poisoning was the cause of death. The body was taken to the old home near Glenwood and buried in the Taylor Cemetery. Rev. Campbell, pastor of the M. E. Church South of which she was a member, conducted the services. Mrs. Taylor was only 25 years of age. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George W. Handley, one of the best families in our county. She was a faithful Christian and her loss is deeply felt by the community. The suddenness with which the end came added force to the terrible shock sustained by the family. Three children, a daughter, Willie, age 9, and 2 little boys , Harry and Joe, survive their mother. The family moved to Louisa about a year ago, when Mr. Taylor assumed the duties of Sheriff. A few weeks ago they moved to the Shannon place near town. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

THEOBOLD, Mrs. John

Mrs. Theobold, aged 35 years and the wife of Mr. John Theobold of Grayson, died after a brief illness of influenza. Mrs. Theobold is survived by her husband and 3 children. She was a woman of rare charm, handsome, intelligent and of winning manner. She was the daughter of the late Thomas Jones, also of Carter County. Big Sandy news, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

WALKER, Martelia

The remains of Mrs. Walker, who died in West Virginia, were brought to Paintsville for burial on Christmas day, A number of relatives accompanied the remains here. Martelia Walker was born May 25, 1886, and died Dec 23, 1918, at Hickory Camp, WV. She was the daughter of the late Bracken R. and Annie Vanhoose, well known in this community. She leaves her husband, William Walker, son of Judge and Mrs. J. Walker o Paintsville, KY and 7 children, 5 sisters and 4 brothers. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 10, 1919 (Note: the newspaper has date of birth as 1886 but I feel it should probably read 1866)

 

WALLACE,

Kentucky friends of Isaac Wallace who recently moved from this place to Urland, WV sympathize with him in the loss of his son, who was killed a few days ago in the coal mines. He was about 15 or 16 years old. Mr. Wallace recently sold his farm, the Arnett place, 2 miles below Louisa and moved to Urland, where he has a good position with the Majestic Colleries Co. He is an industrious and honest citizen. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 17, 1919

 

WELLMAN, Hoke

The body of Hoke Wellman was brought from Catlettsburg, where he died Wednesday. The burial took place at Fort Gay, where he formerly lived. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 17, 1919

 

WILLIAMS, Hon. Charles L.

Hon. Charles L. Williams who was stricken with paralysis in the circuit court room Wednesday during the opening of court, died at the home of his brother, Attorney James A. Williams Friday. He had apparently never regained consciousness after he was stricken. He had been in poor health since last summer. He is survived by his second wife. Big Sandy news, Friday, Jan 31, 1919

 

WOOTEN, John

A few weeks ago John Wooten of Hulette, this county, was reported missing in action in France. Now the report is published by the department that he was killed. He was a mechanic and was serving in this branch of the service. Young Wooten was a deserving young man and his death brings sorrow to all who knew him. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jan 24, 1919

 

FEBRUARY 1919

 

ADAMS

Hicksville, KY—the death angel visited the home of Rube Adams and wife and took from them their darling little baby. Big Sandy news, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

ADAMS, Covey

Hicksville, KY—The death angel visited the home of Covey Adams and took Mr. Adams. He leaves a wife and 6 children to mourn their loss. Mr. Adams was a good Christian man. Big Sandy news, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

ADAMS, Earl

Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Adams were called to Portsmouth, OH by the illness of Mr. Adams’ son, Earl Adams. His death occurred last Sunday night. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

ADKINS, Herbert

Twin Branch, KY—Jesse Adkins received a telegram that his son, Herbert Adkins, died of wounds received in action. Herbert leaves a father, 3 sisters, and one brother to mourn the loss. He had written to a friend that the Great God was with him and was with him on the battle front and we hope that he is resting to await the resurrection. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

BARTLETT, Simon

On Monday evening, Jan 26, 1919, several friends gathered at the home of Mr. Simon Bartlett, to do the last sad rites for the dead. The services of scripture reading and prayer conducted by Rev. W.C. Pierce of the Pollard Baptist Church, were brief but comforting. On the next morning the body was conveyed to the family burial ground near the mouth of Georges Creek on Big Sandy and there the beautiful hymn “The Unclouded Day” was sung by Rev. T. G. Rickman and others, after which the remains of Mr. Bartlett were laid to rest. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

BARTRAM, Julia (Burgess)

Mrs. Julia Burgess Bartram passed away last Friday evening at 6 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Stanley in Fort Gay, WV. Her health had been failing the past few years. The immediate cause of her death was bronchial pneumonia, from which she had suffered about 3 weeks. Mrs. Bartram was the widow of James Bartram, who died a few years ago. She is survived by 4 children, Ed of Omega, OH, Henry of Missouri, Mrs. Olga Cathers of Iowa and Mrs. Stanley. Also by a son and daughter of Mr. Bartram’s first marriage, William Bartram of Ashland and Mrs. L. D. Bartram of Fort Gay, with whom she spent part of the time. She was a sister of Mrs. Mary Conley of this place, Mrs. Sula Ratcliff of Clifford and J.E. and G. C. Burgess of Kise. Mrs. Bartram was 77 years old. She was an excellent woman and for many years had been a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Funeral and burial services were conducted Monday morning at 10 by Rev. Sam Wellman. Interment was made in the Frazier Cemetery near Fort Gay. Relatives from a distance to attend the funeral were Ed Bartram, of Ohio, and Mr. and Mrs. G. C. Burgess of Kise Station. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

BAYS, Logan

Col. Logan Bays, aged 85, of Hitchins, died of asthma. He was a veteran of the Civil War. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

BERRY

The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Ova Berry, who was burned to death at his home at Sprigg, WV, was buried at the home graveyard at Shady Grove Feb 19. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

BOWE

W. T. Bowe and family of Goodman, WV will soon return to their farm here. Mr. Bowe accompanied the body of his infant child here last week for burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

BOWLING, Mrs. John

Mrs. John Bowling died Tuesday at her home on Whites Creek. She is survived by her husband and several grown children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

BURCHETT, Roland

Roland Burchett, one of Prestonsburg’s most useful men, died of Spanish influenza Sunday afternoon at his late home in the Richmond addition. He had been very sick for several days. During his last hours he made a profession of faith in the Lord Jesus as his personal Savior. He was 43 years of age, and is survived by his widow, Mrs. Lou Burchett and 6 children as follows: Ruth, 14, Oak, 10, Estil and Cottrell twins, 7, Beverly, 5, and Roland 9 months and 4 brothers and one sister, Perry Burchett of Weeksbury, KY, Beverly Burchett of Prestonsburg, Dick Burchett of Woods, Oak Burchett of Water Gap and Mrs. Celia Cline of Woods, KY. His funeral services were conducted by the Rev. H. K. Moore of the M. E. Church South, at his home under the auspices of Zebulon Lodge of Masons. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

DAVIS, George

George Davis died at his home near Sugar Grove with flu. Mr. Davis was about 30 years of age and had only been sick a short time. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

DEAN,

Benton Dean’s child, aged 3 years, died Sunday near Fort Gay. This was one of a pair of twins, the other having died last fall. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

GEORGE, Myrtle (Ferguson)

Mrs. Myrtle Ferguson George died last Monday of nervous prostration at the home of her brother, Fred Ferguson, in Huntington, and the funeral was held there Wednesday morning. The body was brought to Fort Gay for interment. Mrs. George was the widow of Fred George and their home was in Ironton, OH. She was the daughter of Dr. N. B. Ferguson and is survived by her mother, 2 brothers, Harry and Fred and an adopted son. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

GOFF, Emmet

Emmet Goff, aged 10 years, died at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Goff, on Ferguson Creek. Death resulted from pneumonia following influenza. He was a grandson of A. J. Yontz of Pikeville. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

GRAY, David F.

David F. Gray, traveling salesman for a grocery firm of Ashland, died Monday. The Monday previous Mr. Gray started out on his route, after an illness of influenza. At Salyersville he became very ill and was taken to his home in Ashland where he suffered an attack of pneumonia. He was a native of Elliott County. He was 40 years old and leaves his wife and 3 children. Big Sandy news, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

GREEN, Lucinda

Mrs. Lucinda Green, age 54, died at her home in Ashland, early Sunday morning of apoplexy. She leaves her husband, Paris Green, and several children. The body was brought to Lawrence County for interment. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

HAYS, J. R.

News has been received by Louisa friends of the death of Mr. J.R. Hays, of Aurora, IN. Mr. Hays is pleasantly remembered in Louisa. He was bookkeeper for Col. Jay H. Northup several years ago. His wife and daughters, Misses Jeanette and Ethel visited here. Mr. Hays was employed as bookkeeper in a Cincinnati hotel for quite a while after leaving Louisa. His death, which occurred Feb 13, was caused by kidney trouble from which he had been suffering more than a year. Big Sandy news, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

HENSLEY, Millard

Webbville, KY—The death angel visited the home of Mrs. Ellen Hensley Saturday and took from her her loving son Millard. He was sick but a short time. He was laid to rest in the Hensley graveyard. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

HILL, Leslie

A telegram was received Thursday morning bringing the sad news of the death of Leslie Hill, which occurred at 11 o’clock Wednesday night. His father, C. C. Hill, of this place, reached his bedside at 8 p.m. but he was unconscious. Influenza, followed by pneumonia, was the cause of his death. While the funeral arrangements had not been announced when the NEWS went to press, it is probable the burial will take place in Louisville. Leslie’s wife is a native of that place and he had relatives there. It was the home of his father and grandfather for many years. Leslie spent the greater part of his boyhood in Louisa. He was in the navy for a time and later entered the newspaper work in Louisville. In this line he won promotion rapidly and was soon in charge of the Associated Press office there, a very responsible position which he held at the time of his death. He was Mr. Hill’s only son and child. Leslie was 31 years old. He leaves a wife, but no children. He was a young man of integrity and good morals and enjoyed the respect and confidence of all who knew him. Big Sandy news, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

HOGSTON, Cleveland

Cleveland Hogston had both legs cut off by a passenger train at Shelbiana, Pike Co., Thursday of last week while walking on one of two parallel tracks. As usual, his attention was riveted on a freight train on the other track when the passenger train came up behind him. the unfortunate man was picked up by the train and brought to the hospital at Louisa, but he was dying when he reached here and lived only a short while. His mother accompanied him. He was about 30 years old and leaves a wife and child. When the accident happened he was on his way to get a doctor for his grandfather, who was quite sick. The body was shipped hme Friday morning. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

HOLCOMB, Mrs. W. C.

Mrs. W. C. Holcomb of Grayson, died Saturday after an illness of several years. Her husband and 2 sons, Earl of Grayson and Everette of Van Lear, survive. Mrs. W.O. Pierce of Mt. Sterling and Mrs. O. L. Shay of Paintsville, are sisters of Mrs. Holcomb. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

HUFF, A. T.

Paintsville, KY—A. T. Huff, one of Johnson County’s leading citizens, passed away at his home at River Feb 14. He had been a sufferer for some months with intestinal nephritis and asthma and then an attack of flu, brought this good man’s useful life to a close. He was a member of the United Baptist church for 13 years. He was the father of 9 children. The deceased was 57 years old and for years was one of the leading carpenters and steamboat men of the valley. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 19, 1919

 

HUNT, Hattie (Scott)

Pikeville, KY—Mrs. Hattie Hunt died recently at Lokieville after a week’s illness of pneumonia which followed an attack of influenza. She was 27 years of age and a daughter of William Scott of this county. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

LANGHORNE, Col. C. D.

Col. C. D. Langhorne, one of the most prominent contractors in the United States, die at his home in Richmond, VA last week. He was known throughout this part of the country on account of having done a large amount of contract work for the C & O Railroad. Also considerable local interest has been felt in him since the marriage of Miss Sayde Reynolds of this city to Mr. Langhorne’s son, E. Keene Langhorne. Col. Langhorne was very wealthy. He was the father of 3 beautiful daughters, who married into some of the most prominent families in New York City. One of them is the wife of the noted artist, Charles Dana Gibson. The funeral and burial took place in Richmond last Sunday. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

MAYO, Reuben

Reuben Mayo, colored, died a few days ago at the home of his son in Charleston, WV. He lived in Louisa several years. His age was probably between 90 and 100 years. As a slave he belonged to Lewis Mayo, of Paintsville, father of Mrs. Cynthia Stewart of this city. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

MCCLUNG, Madison

Mrs. W. F. Wilson received a telegram Saturday morning that her father, Mr. Madison McClung had died suddenly. He was an old soldier, having fought in the Civil War. He was a good, religious man and highly respected by all who knew him. He leaves 7 children: Mrs. W. F. Wilson of this city, Mrs. Dena Ziegler, R. A. McClung of Portsmouth, and Miss Mona McClung of Handley, WV. The death of her daughter prevented Mrs. Wilson attending her father’s burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

MORSE, Mary

Mrs. Mary Morse, widow of the late Arthur F. Morse, died at her home on Panola Avenue of pneumonia, from which she has been suffering for the past week. Mrs. Morse was one of the best known and most beloved ladies in the entire section and her death, following a long life filled with an unusual amount of activity and usefulness came as a personal and deep loss to a multitude of friends as well as the bereaved relatives. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

MURRY, George

Uncle George Murray died Feb 14th at his home at Kerz from a stroke of paralysis which he suffered several days previous. Big Sandy news, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

PATRICK, John Wesley

Magoffin Citizen Dies

On Jan 23, 1919, John Wesley Patrick who for many years has resided near Salyersville, passed to the great beyond. Mr. Patrick was 83 years, 4 months and 6 days of age. He was bron in 1836, on the Burning Spring Fork of Licking River, in what was then Floyd, but is now Magoffin County. His father emigrated to Kentucky from Burke Gardens, Tazewell County, VA about the year 1800 and settled on Burning Spring Fork on the farm where the deceased was born and died. In 1858, John Wesley Patrick was united in marriage to Miss Abigail Salyer, who has many relatives in Johnson County as well as in Magoffin County. To this union were born 12 children, all of whom are now living except one who died in infancy. The surviving children are Ashland T. of Prestonsburg, John H., Bascom, Dona C. Jeff, Deede and Benjamin, Mrs. D. B. Patrick, Mrs. James Rowland, Mrs. W. L. May and Mrs. Oliver Patrick. Three of the son have been honored with offices by the citizens of their county, John H. Patrick was elected sheriff of Magoffin County, Dona C. Patrick is now acting sheriff of Magoffin County, Judge A. T. Patrick was elected first superintendent of schools, then served as United States Commissioner for 10 years and is now judge of the 31 st Judicial District of Kentucky. He was a devout member of the M. E. Church. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

PATRICK, Tom

We regret to report the death in Wenatchee, WA of Mr. Tom Patrick, a former resident of Bradley. His brother, Mr. Sherd Patrick, is bringing his body home to be interred in the John H. Patrick Cemetery near Salyersville. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

PAYNE, William “Dock”

Funeral services for Dock Payne, 71, who was killed Sunday afternoon when he became entangles in a pump wheel of the N & W station near Neal, Wayne County, were held Tuesday afternoon at the home in Kenova. The widow, one daughter and 2 sons survive. Payne is said to have had $160 in bills in his pocket which were destroyed when his body was crushed in the wheel. Mr. Payne’s death is the fourth in his family since October, the others being 2 of his sons and one grandson. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

]

RANKIN, Mrs. Hiram

Mrs. Hiram Rankin died Sunday after a long illness from paralysis at her home on East Fork. She was 57 years old. She was a member of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Her husband and 4 children survive. Funeral at East Fork Chapel was conducted by Rev. Reeves last Tuesday. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

RAY, James

James Ray, 28, was killed by a train in Williamson, WV. He was born in Pike County, KY, but had lived in Williamson 10 years. His stepfather and mother, Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Thompson and his wife survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

SAVAGE, Clifford

Trinity—The death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Babe Savage and took from them their little son, Clifford. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

SEE, Mrs. Andy

A very sand and unexpected death occurred Saturday night when Mrs. Andy See passed away after an illness of only a few minutes. Mr. See and children had suffered attacks of influenza and Mrs. See had given them every attention. They were improving. Their physician called to see them and while there told Mrs. See that she was really the sickest one of the family and advised her to go to bed. She did not seem to realize her condition, but a little later took his advice. After a few minutes she suddenly became very ill and the doctor, who was only a short distance away from the house, was called, but she was dead when he arrived. Her husband, who had been called come from his employment in Floyd County by the illness of the children, soon took influenza and at the time of his wife’s death was unable to be up. Five children, 3 boys and 2 girls, the youngest only 4 weeks old, survive. Mrs. See was before marriage Miss Flora Wilson, of this city, the oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Wilson. Since her marriage she has lived away from here and they only recently returned to make their home in Louisa. She was a good wife and mother and the family has the sympathy of all in their bereavement. Mrs. See had been a Christian and consistent member of the Baptist Church from girlhood. She was 26 years of age and was married Nov 24, 1909. She was devoted to her family and especially thoughtful and kind to her parents. Funeral and burial services were conducted by Rev. J. T. Pope, pastor of the Baptist Church. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

SMITH, Olga (Savage)

Mrs. Olga Savage Smith passed away at her home in Catlettsburg Thursday of last week after a lingering illness of tuberculosis. She was 23 years old and is survived by her husband, Joseph D. Smith and a little daughter aged 4 years. Mrs. Smith was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Savage, of Fallsburg. She leaves her parents, 2 sisters, Mrs. Ida Caines of Normal and Miss Fannie Savage and 2 brothers, Willie and Arthur of Fallsburg. Until a few months ago Mr. and Mrs. Smith lived in Kenova. Mr. Smith is foreman of the Sanitary Manufacturing Company. The Catlettsburg chapter of the Eastern Star held a service at the home. Mrs. Smith being a member of Fallsburg chapter. The funeral was preached by Rev. Isaiah Cline, pastor of the M. E. Church of which she was a member. The body was taken to Fallsburg where burial took place Sunday in the family burying ground. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

On Feb 5th, 1919, while the clock was sending forth its midnight tones, the death angel visited the home of J. L. Smith in Catlettsburg,, KY and took from him his loving companion. Mrs. Smith before marriage was Olga E. Savage, youngest daughter of W. M. and Martha Savage. She was born Nov 2, 1894 near Fallsburg, and lived there until she was married Jul 6, 1914. She departed this life at the age of 24 years 3 months and 3 days. She leaves a devoted husband and little daughter 3 years old, father, mother, 2 brothers, Arthur and Willie Savage, 2 sisters, Fannie Savage of Sinking Spring, OH and Mrs. Ida Cains of Catlettsburg, to mourn the loss. (note a long memorial to her that I did not include). Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

SPEARS, Mildred

One of the saddest deaths that has occurred in Paintsville for years was the death of Miss Mildred Spears which occurred last week. Miss Spears’ clothes caught fire while she was standing before an open grate and before members of the family could extinguish the flames she was burned in such a horrible manner that she died on the following day. Miss Spears was 16 years of age and the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Spears, who reside across the creek from Paintsville. The funeral services were conducted at the home and the remains were taken to River for burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

SPORE, Nora (Hays)

Mrs. Peter Spore of Lock, NY who was called to Ashland by the death of her brother, Cecil Hays, Jan 23, and remained with her sister in law who was ill with influenza contracted the disease and died Monday night of pneumonia. Mrs. Spore was Miss Nora Hays and was married about 3 years ago. Her husband survives. Also 2 brothers, John M. Hays of Terryville, this county and Orlanda, of stark, WV and one sister, Mrs. Bailey of Terryville. Mrs. Spore was 36 years old. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

SYCK, Mrs. G. W.

Pikeville, KY—Mrs. G. W. Syck died at her home on Chloe Creek Wednesday after a lingering illness. She is survived by a son, Dan J. Syck who has cared for her in her declining years and a daughter, Mrs. W. J. Walter who lived nearby and was ever watchful of her mother’s welfare. The interment took place Thursday in the cemetery a the mouth of Chloe and just opposite Pikeville. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

VANSANT, Cecil

Cecil Vansant, former Assistant Secretary of State, died at his home at Sandy Hook. Influenza was the cause. His brother, James, died the day before. They are nephews of Rufus H. Vansant of Ashland and relatives of Attorney W. H. Flanery of this place. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

VAUGHAN, Sultena

Mrs. Sultena Vaughan, mother of W. J. Vaughan, Mrs. J. B. Clayton and Mrs. W. B. Clayton, died at the home of Mr. Vaughan, 3 miles from Louisa, last Monday. She was past 70 years of age and had been totally blind for several years. She was the widow of Abram Vaughan, who died a few years ago. Mrs. Vaughan had been physically helpless for quite a long time, in addition to being blind. She was a most excellent woman, a devoted Christian and a member of the Baptist Church. The burial took place Tuesday, the services being conducted by Rev. J. T. Pope, of Louisa, Big Sandy news, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

VIPERMAN, Nola (Vanhorn)

Our Pike County column gives an account of the death of Mrs. Nola Vanhorn Vipperman which occurred at Pikeville a few days ago. It will be remembered that he was convicted of killing Mrs. Anna Vipperman, wife of a relative of her husband. She claimed self defense and the case was being contested at the time of her death. Her maiden name was Vanhorn and she was a native of Lawrence County, her home being near Buchanan. She is survived by her husband and a child less than a year old. The funeral and burial took place last Saturday at Buchanan Chapel. The service was conducted by Rev. Cleveland. Big Sandy news, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

WADE, Frankie (Spradlin)

The body of Mrs. John F. Wade was taken to Paintsville Tuesday evening for burial. Her death occurred in a hospital at Portsmouth, OH, Monday where she had gone last week to undergo an operation. She had influenza several weeks ago and never entirely recovered. Mrs. Wade was Miss Frankie Spradlin of Paintsville. She was 22 yeas old and is survived by her husband and one little son, John Jr. aged 4 years. Also, her mother and a sister. She had visited in Louisa and friend and relatives were shocked and grieved to hear the sad news of her death. Appropriate funeral services were held on Wednesday afternoon at 2 from the home of Mrs. Marcus Davis, a relative. Mrs. James L. Carey and daughter, Mrs. C. L. Miler and children and J. G. Burns of this city, attended the funeral. Big sandy News, Friday, Feb 7, 1919

 

WALKER, Fred W.

Fred W. Walker died at his home near Prestonsburg a few days ago after a long illness of tuberculosis. He was about 35 years old and leaves a family. He was one of the beneficiaries of the will of J. F. Hackworth of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 14, 1919

 

WALLACE, Charles

Isaac Wallace was here this week from Majestic. We mentioned the accidental killing of his son in a recent issue of our paper but had no particular. It was his second son, Charley, and he was killed while trying to stop a runaway team hitched to a mine “buggy”. He was knocked down by the team and the buggy passed over his body, injuring him so badly that he never spoke afterward. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

WARD, Scott

Paintsville, KY—Scott Ward, the 15 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Z. C. Ward died at their home on Barnetts Creek after a brief illness of pneumonia following influenza. He was a bright and industrious boy. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

WELLMAN, William

The funeral of William N. Wellman was held at Fort Gay, WV last Monday. His death occurred at the home of his son at Hubbardstown. Burial took place at Fort Gay. He was an uncle of Lace Wellman of the First National Bank of this city. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 28, 1919

 

WILHOIT, Col.

Grayson, KY—Feb 18—Colonel E.B. Wilhoit, 76 years old, a lawyer died here last night. He had practiced in the Courts of Eastern Kentucky for more than 50 years. Big Sandy News, Friday, Feb 21, 1919

 

MARCH 1919

 

AKERS, Nancy (Porter)

Catlettsburg, KY—Mrs. Nancy Porter-Akers, aged 90 years, mother of Mr. W. R. Akers and aunt of Walker Porter and Mrs. J. C. Hogan of this city, passed away at her home at Cyrus, WV at 6 o’clock Saturday morning of the infirmities of age. The funeral took place Sunday evening and interment was made near the home. The children of Mrs. Akers were all at home except one. Mrs. Akers was a woman of exceptional noble character, a devout Christian, devoted mother, neighbor and friend. She was truly a good woman. She had a vast acquaintance as well as relationship throughout the Sandy Valley and a large concourse of friends and relatives attended the funeral of this much loved woman. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

BELLOMY,

Wayne Co., WV—Mrs. Bellomy, mother of A, W., died near Hubbardstown, a few days ago. She was quite old. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

BIGGS, Jerry

Wayne Co., WV—Jerry Biggs, age 80 died at his home at Dean’s Bend. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

BOSTWICK, Lawrence Claude

The little son of Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Bostwick, age 8 months, died Thursday morning. The child had been very sick for several days with double pneumonia, following influenza, Esther, a daughter, is sick in a hospital at Ashland, and will not be able to leave the hospital until next Sunday. The child’s name was Lawrence Claude. Funeral arrangements had not been decided upon when the NEWS went to press. Mr. Bostwick is considering having the burial at the old home near Columbus, OH. He went to Ashland Thursday to see his daughter and tell her of the death. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

BRANHAM, Turner

Paintsville, KY—Turner Branham, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Branham of Offutt, this county, was killed in France, Oct 4. Young Branham had seen active service in France 15 months having gone over with General Pershing. He was a member of a machine gun battalion and was bravely defending this county when stricken down by the enemy. Paintsville Post. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

BURGESS, George T.

Death came to Mr. George T. Burgess last Friday afternoon at his home at Georges Creek, this county. He had not been in good health for many yeas, but had been confined to his room only a few days, his last illness being caused by typhoid fever. Mr. Burgess was a veteran of the Civil War. He served in the Union Army. He was married soon after the close of the war to Miss Angie Borders, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Borders. She died several years ago leaving 4 sons and a daughter. Mr. Burgess was a well known farmer and good citizen of the county. He was a faithful member of the Methodist Church. A few years ago he was married to Mrs. Lizzie Wellman, of this city, who survives. Funeral service was held from the home on Sunday morning at 10, conducted by Rev. Miller. Interment was made in the family burial ground near the home. He was a brother of Ed F. Burgess of Richardson, Mrs. Mary E. Marcum of Huntington, WV and Mrs. Julia Neill of Kansas. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

CARTER, Martha

Funeral services for Miss Martha Carter were held last Sunday at her home at Yatesville and interment took place in the family burial ground near there. Miss Cater was the daughter of Landon Carter, deceased. Her health had been failing quite a while and lat fall accompanied by her sister she went to Asheville, NC in the hope that she might be benefited. They remained there until a short time ago when they returned to their home. Her illness was caused by pulmonary tuberculosis. She is survived by 2 sisters who have the sympathy of many friends in their bereavement. Miss Carter was the youngest of 3 sisters. Her age was 18 years and 6 months. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. H. Hewlett of this city and Rev. Conley of Fallsburg. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

CHANDLER, Benjamin F.

Blaine, KY—On Mar 6th the angel of death visited the home of Pharmer Chandler and took from him his son, Benjamin F. Chandler. Bennie as his friends all called him, was a bright young man and liked by all who knew him. He was one of Uncle Sam’s boys and had only been home a few weeks. He leaves a father, 2 brothers and 5 sisters to mourn their loss Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

CHANDLER, Isaac M.

Isaac M. Chandler passed away at his home at Normal after a long illness. Mr. Chandler was 45 years of age and was a carpenter by trade. He leaves his wife and a family of children. Three of his sons are grown and one is serving his country in France. On Saturday afternoon service was conducted at the home at Normal and interment was made in the Williams Cemetery. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

DANIEL, Isom

Paintsville, KY—Isom Daniel, a prominent citizen of Whitehouse, died from a complication of diseases and was laid to rest in the family cemetery on the farm where he has lived for a number of years. Mr. Daniel was one of the county’s best citizens. He is the father of Mr. Dan Leedy who died here with flu a short time ago. Big Sandy News, Friday Mar 14, 1919

 

DAVIS, Dan

One of Johnson County’s most prominent citizens died last week at his home near Paintsville. Mr. Davis was wealthy. He was an enterprising farmer and business man, and for many years was president of the Paintsville National Bank. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

DILLS, Noah

Paintsville, KY—The remains of Noah Dills were taken through here to his old home on Tom’s Creek for burial. Mr. Dills was struck by a car a few days ago at Huntington and died as a result of the injury he received. He was a member of a large family of this county and his sudden death was a shock to his relatives and friends. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

DIXON, I. B.

The body of I. B. Dixon was taken to Paintsville Saturday where the following day the funeral and burial took place. Mr. Dixon’s death occurred Friday night in this city. His health had not been good for several years but his death was unexpected, as he was able to be around and was on he street the first of the week. He was a native of Johnson County and had lived in Louise a number of years. He was a brother of postmaster Robert Dixon of this city. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mattie Dixon. He was bout 65 years of age. He was a resident of Louisa for many years, but had been away most of the time lately. Just before he died the man who was staying in the house with him said he asked for something to eat and while he was out of the room getting it, the death summons came. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

GAMBILL, M. L.

M. L. Gambill died at his home near Blaine after a short illness with pneumonia. He was the father of Mrs. Lafe Wellman and Mrs. Nancy Boggs of this place and was a prominent citizen. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 28, 1919

 

GOBLE, Bettie Bradley

News has been received here of the death of Bettie Bradley Goble, 4 weeks old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Monte Goble of Cincinnati which occurred last Wednesday. C. C. Magann of this city, went to Cincinnati to attend the funeral. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

HAYS, Alamander

Alamander Hays died last Friday at his home in Lucasville, OH. The body was brought through here Saturday and was buried Sunday at the Al Hays cemetery in this county. He was a son of Al Hays and formerly lived in Louisa. He leaves a wife and several children. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 28,1919

 

HILL, Leslie

The Courier-Journal had the following report of the death of Leslie Hill, an account of which we published last week. All the Louisville papers had very complimentary mention of him.

Charles Leslie Hill, night editor for the Associated Press in Louisville, and for several years a local newspaper man died of pneumonia, following influenza at 11:30 last night, at his home 115 East Gray Street. Mr. Hill became ill Saturday night while at work. His condition was not considered serious until Tuesday, when pneumonia developed. He sank rapidly to his death last night. Mr. Hill was 30 years old and was born in Louisa, KY. He served as a youth in the navy and later entered newspaper work at Huntington, WV. Later he came to Louisville, where he was for several years a reporter on the Louisville Herald. Three years ago, he became night editor for the Associated Press. Besides his parents, who reside at Louisa, KY, he is survived by his widow, Mrs. Sadie Stodghill Hill. Mr. Hill was a deep student of political and social questions and despite his age, was known as one of the best posted men in Louisville on many subjects. His sudden death came as a shock and caused widespread sorrow. The burial took place in Cave Hill Cemetery, Louisville. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

HORN, Ned

Prestonsburg, KY—On last Sunday Uncle Ned Horn died at the home of his son Isadore near Auxier, KY. Uncle Ned was perhaps the oldest man in Floyd County. Had he lived until the fourth of next month he would have been 93 years of age. He was one of the most loyal citizens of the county and was very highly esteemed by all who knew him. For 65 years he was a member of the M. C. Church South and during all these years he lived a consistent Christian life. His funeral was preached on Monday morning at Horn Chapel by Rev. H. K. Moore, pastor of the Methodist Church in Prestonsburg, after which his body was interred in the cemetery near his old home. Big Sandy News, Friday Mar 7, 1919

 

HOWES, Mollie

Mrs. Mollie Howes died Thursday of last week at her home in Kansas. She was the widow of Rev. Charles Howes, a preacher in the M. E. Church, whose death occurred a few years ago. She is remembered in Louisa, having visited her sisters, Mrs. Lizzie Burgess, Mrs. K. M. short and Mrs. William Remmele. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 28, 1919

 

JOHNSON

Wayne Co., WV—a little child of Okey Johnson’s, age about one year, died this week. This is the second child Mr. Johnson has lost recently. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

JOHNSTON, Howard

The funeral of Chief of Police Howard Johnston, who passed away Friday morning was held at the home Sunday afternoon conducted by Rev. Arden P. Keyser, pastor of the M. E. Church South. The remains were laid to rest in the Catlettsburg Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday Mar 21, 1919

 

JORDAN, Elva (Hutchinson)

Tuscola, KY—The death angel visited the home of Orville Jordan on Friday morning about 4 o’clock and took from him his loving wife, Elva. Mrs. Jordan was before marriage Miss Elva Hutchinson. They were united in marriage Mar 20, 1901. Mrs. Jordan was 36 years old at her death. She leaves a husband, 4 children, one brother and a host of relatives and friend to mourn her loss. She was converted at the age of 15 years, and lived the rest of her life a devoted Christian. She was laid to rest in the Watson Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

KIRK, Mrs. Millard

Donithon, KY—Mrs. Millard Kirk died Mar 11 at her mother’s home in West Virginia. She was brought to this place Mar 13 and interment was made in the Hardwick burying grounds. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 28, 1919

 

LAYNE, J. Lem

Mr. J. Lem Layne died at Betsy Layne, Pike County, a few days ago, in his 77th year. He was the grandfather of F. T. D. Wallace, Jr., L. E. Wallace and Miss Matilda Wallace of this place and a brother of James C. Layne of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

LESLIE, Mrs. Grover (Huff)

Pikeville, KY—Mrs. Grover Leslie passed away Wednesday, Mar 5 at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Huff after a lingering illness with tuberculosis. About a year ago her husband moved to Oklahoma for the benefit of her health, but she did not improve and returned home 3 months ago. She was 26 years old and leaves a little girl aged 2 years. She had long been a consistent member of the M. E. Church South. Her funeral was conducted Friday at the church by the pastor Rev. J. P. Hopson. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

LESTER, Guy

Died, on last Tuesday evening, little Guy, the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Mose Lester. His suffering was great but he bore it patiently. The funeral discourse was delivered by Rev. Jake Puckett after which his body was laid to rest in the Christian graveyard. Big Sandy News, Friday Mar 14, 1919

Guy, 4 year old son of Mus Lester, died recently of spinal trouble. The burial took place in the family cemetery near Freelin Christian’s. Big Sandy news, Friday Mar 21, 1919

 

MILLER, Bertha

Bertha Miller, wife of Pharoah B. Miller, of Adeline, was sick only 8 days when her Heavenly Father called her. She was the mother of 4 children, 3 little girls and one little boy. The oldest is 11 years and the youngest is 10 days old. She was converted to God about 8 year ago and lived a consistent Christian life until the Lord called her. She was 31 years of age the day her funeral was preached, being the day after she died. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Samuels of Buchanan circuit, at the home. The body laid to rest in the family graveyard near the home. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

MOORE, Minnie D.

Mattie, KY—Minnie D. Moore, daughter of D. M. Moore died on Wednesday Mar 12. She was 20 years 8 months and 19 days of age. She had been an invalid for many years. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

MORRIS, Tollia (Litteral)

Paintsville, KY—Mrs. Tom Morris died at her home at Sullivan, WV after a brief illness of pneumonia following influenza. Mrs. Morris was formerly Miss Tollia Litteral, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Flem Litteral of Oil Springs. She leaves a husband and 2 small children. The husband is suffering from the same disease and is expected to die also. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

MORRIS, Tom

The body of Mr. Tom Morris, who died of pneumonia at his home at Sullivan, WV was brought here a few days ago and taken to Oil Springs for interment. Mr. and Mrs. Flem Litteral, father in law and mother in law of deceased with his 2 small children accompanied the remains and will take charge of the little ones. Mr. Morris’ wife died only a few weeks ago also of pneumonia following influenza. Mr. and Mrs. Morris were most estimable and highly respected people. Mrs. Morris was a sister of Mrs. John F. Coldiron of this city (Catlettsburg). Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

PERKINS, Sherly

Webbville, KY—The death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Perkins and took from them their loving son Sherly. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 7, 1919

 

PRICHARD, Mrs. Jerome

Mrs. Jerome Prichard died Thursday after an illness of many weeks. The funeral service was held on Sunday at Bolt’s Fork, her old home, from the church and the body was laid to rest in the Prichard burial grounds. Her children were called here from various points to her bedside. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

RANKIN, Kate

On Sunday evening as the sunshine was casting its rays through the home of Uncle Hiram Rankin, the spirit of his loving wife was taking its flight to the glory land She had been in poor health for some time, suffering from paralysis and after the third stroke, she only lived about 8 days. She was the daughter of Samuel and Lucy Lakin who preceded her to the glory land several years ago. She leaves a devoted husband, 5 children, 3 boys and 2 girls, 6 sisters and one brother. She was 58 years old and a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Funeral services were conducted by Bro. Reeves of Ashland, at East Fork Chapel and the remains were laid to rest in the Davis graveyard. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

RIGSBY, Ossie

Queens Ridge, WV—Dear Editor: Am sending you the history of a boy who was born in your county and had many friends and relatives in Lawrence County who will be interested in the following: The name of this young man was Ossie Rigsby, son of J. B. and Fannie Rigsby. He was born Jun 12, 1887, and died Feb 13, 1919, age 31 years, 8 months and 1 day. His death came so suddenly it was a great shock to his many friends. He had lived here nearly all his life, his father having moved here from Lawrence county, KY when he was just a small boy. He was the only son and was the pride of the family. He left a father, mother, 4 sisters and a loving wife and baby to mourn the loss, His short life was a life of purity, one that every young man would do well to follow. He was never a wicked boy, always seemed to be very ready to do what was right and to always abstain from evil. He was a Master Mason, had his membership with the order at Crum, WV. He was every ready to do you a kind act and always met you with a smile. He had no harsh words for anyone and to meet him was never to forget him, but to love him. He was a true Christian boy, having joined the church about 4 years ago. Shortly after he was converted he married Miss Ora Tomblin, a girl whom he had gone to school with many a day. She being a Christian girl, was his choice. Ossie was sick about one week with influenza followed by pneumonia. His body was laid to rest in the Jones Cemetery. Written by one who knew and loved him. W. H. T. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

SANSOM, Martha

Ulysses, KY—Mrs. Martha Sansom, of Chestnut, died Mar 1st of the infirmities of old age. She was 82 years and 10 months old at the time of her death. She is survived by her husband, one son and several daughters. She was buried in the family burying groung. Big Sandy news, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

SHANNON, Hobert

On Tuesday night, Mar 25 at 10 o’clock the death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Shannon of Prichard, WV and took there from their youngest child, Hobert. His death was caused by typhoid fever with which he was stricken in January. He was sick 46 days and bore his sufferings patiently to the end. His father and sister nursed him faithfully. He was born Oct 7, 1897 and soon after his 21st birthday he registered for service to his country, but it was not the will of Him who doeth all things well. The funeral was conducted at the Shiloh Church and burial at the Ferguson graveyard. He leaves to mourn the loss his loving father and mother, 2 brothers and 2 sisters who were all near him to the end except one brother, George who is in France. The other brother, Quinn and the sisters are Mrs. Hon Boyd and Mrs. Burg Bolt. Big Sandy news, Friday Mar 28, 1919

 

SKEEN, George

George Skeen, an aged citizen of this county died on Wednesday morning at his home on Fullers Branch. He was 82 years old. Several children survive, among them are Prof. J.F. Skeen of Leesburg, FL and Mrs. James Grubb of Rose, OK. Mr. Skeen died at the home of his son, Sam. The funeral was conducted Thursday by Rev. H. B. Hewlett and burial took place at Fullers. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

STUART, George

Webbville, KY—The death angel visited our community Tuesday, Mar 11, at about 2 o’clock and took from our midst one of our best citizens, George Stuart. He had been sick for several months. He was converted some time ago and in the last few months of his illness he was very patient and bore his affliction with faith that when God called him he would be removed from all suffering. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Sarah Ann Stuart and 3 sons, Clyde, Homer and Fred Stuart. The funeral discourse was delivered by Rev. Calvin Johnson after which his body was laid to rest in the Webbville graveyard. Big Sandy News, Friday Mar 28, 1919

 

THOMPSON, William

William Thompson, (known as “Blackhead”) of Torchlight, whose illness was mentioned last week, died last Friday. He was 43 years old and leaves a wife and 5 children, the youngest being only 2 years of age. The burial took place on Little Blaine at the old home place. Mr. Thompson was a brother of Mrs. George Picklesimer, of Louisa. Big Sandy news, Friday Mar 28, 1919

 

TUCKER, Moses

Moses Tucker, a aged and honorable citizen living near Fort Gay, died Mar 18, after an illness of a year. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

VICARS

P. E. Vicars oldest son was killed near Williamson by a freight train a few days ago. The body was buried at the home near Fort Gay. The boy was riding a freight train when the accident happened. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 21, 1919

 

WAGNER, Tobias

Judge Tobias Wagner, of Mossy Bottom, passed away at his home last Friday morning. Mr. Wagner was born in Germany Sep 25, 1834, he is therefore 84 years 5 months and 23 days old. He came to this country 67 years ago and was a sergeant in the Civil War in Company K, 39th KY Infantry and was honorably discharged from the service. He was at one time elected on the Republican ticket to County Judge of Pike County, KY. He was married soon after coming to this country to Miss Caroline M. Price, who died Oct 31, 1907. He is survived by 3 sons and one daughter, Thomas Wagner, of Louisa, Nick Wagner, Mossy Bottom, John Wagner, Big Rock, VA, Mrs. Mary Palmquist, East Pittsburg, PA and several grandchildren all of whom were at his bedside when the end came. Funeral service was conducted by Rev. M. C. Reynolds at 2 o’clock on Saturday at the residence with interment in the family cemetery. Ashland Independent. Big Sandy news, Friday Mar 28, 1919

 

WALKER, Fred W.

Prestonsburg, KY

One of Floyd County’s most honored and highly respected citizens, Fred W. Walker, passed away at his home at Alvin, KY on the evening of Feb 5th, of tuberculosis. He is survived by his wife, Trobie Walker, 4 children and a brother, Frank Walker and a host of friends and relatives. He was laid to rest in the family cemetery. His funeral was preached by Rev. Isaac Stratton. He was about 40 years old and was born and reared in Floyd County and had lived here practically all his life. He went west, he and his brother Frank, stayed several years and then came back to old Kentucky, where he married and lived a the old homestead. He was one of the devisees of the John F. Hackworth estate of Lawrence County who died about 8 years ago. He was engaged for a while in the merchandising business until finally his health began to fail and he quit business and went in search of health. He stayed in Arizona and Colorado for 9 or 10 months, and came back home and seemed to be somewhat improved, but alas, his health failed and he gradually grew worse until the end came. He had suffered for about a year with that dreadful disease. Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 17, 1919

 

WELLMAN, William

Tabors Creek—Death has again entered our community and taken one of our aged and dearly beloved citizens. Mr. William Wellman, who passed away Saturday night at the home of his son Dave. He is survived by 2 brothers, one sister, 6 children, 35 grandchildren, and a host of friends and other relatives. Big Sandy News, Friday Mar 7, 1919

 

WHEELER, Harry

Ashland, KY—Harry Wheeler, 16 years old, was fatally shot as he was spreading the cover over a pool table here when a loaded revolver dropped to the floor and was discharged accidentally. He lived but a shot time. He was the son of H. C. Wheeler, Big Sandy News, Friday, Mar 14, 1919

 

APRIL 1919

 

BANKS, Laura

Mrs. L. E. Tillman was called to Catlettsburg Saturday to attend the funeral of her sister, Mrs. Laura Banks whose death occurred at Pittsburg, PA where the family had lived several years. She was the wife of Capt. Joe Banks, who with one daughter, Josephine survives. The funeral was held Sunday at the home of Capt. Banks’ mother in Catlettsburg. Interment following at Ceredo, WV. Her death is a peculiarly sad one. She had arisen early Thursday morning before any other members of the family and while preparing breakfast places an open vessel filled with water on the stove and the water soon was boiling. Being subject of fainting spells it is supposed she fainted and in falling had pulled the vessel containing the boiling water over, the hot water covering almost her entire body. She was so badly scaled that her death ensued on Friday. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr18, 1919

 

BARTRAM, Elisha

Elisha Bartram, near Fort Gay was stricken with paralysis Sunday and his condition was regarded as so critical that death was expected to occur at any time. At last reports he was still alive. He is about 65 years old and is a very substantial citizen. He is father of W.R. Bartram of Louisa. Later: Mr. Bartram died the next day after he was stricken. The funeral and interment took place Wednesday. Rev. L. D. Bryan conducted the services. Mr. Bartram was 66 years of age. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 11, 1919

 

Brother Elisha Bartram was born on the waters of Big Hurricane, Wayne county, WV, Dec 4, 1852 and died at his home near Fort Gay, WV Apr 8,1919 aged 66 years 4 months and 4 days. Brother Bartram was made a Master Mason in Vinson Lodge No. 66, Apr 20,1 895, and was one of its most attentive and worthy members and was highly esteemed as a citizen by all who knew him. He was buried Masonically by Vinson Lodge No. 66, assisted by brethren from Apperson Lodge, Louisa, KY. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

BIGGS, Mamie

Merideth, WV—The death angel visited the home of Curtis Biggs and took from them their darling child. Mamie Biggs was 3 years 1 month and 8 days old. In playing around a fire her clothing caught fire and burned her so badly that it finally caused her death. She lived 46 days after she was burned. Mamie was laid to rest in the Lakin Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

BORDERS, William

William Borders died last Sunday night at his home at Paintsville from the infirmities incident to old age. He was 94 years old and had lived at Paintsville many years. He was a brother in law of Mrs. Cynthia Stewart of this city and uncle of Mrs. F. H. Yates. The surviving sons and daughters are John W. Borders of Flemingsburg, H. Borders of Nicholas County, Jas. E. Borders of Fullerton, Mrs. C. M. Saunders of Flemingsburg, and Mrs. Rec Vaughan, of Catlettsburg. Funeral service was held from the home at 10 Tuesday morning, conducted by Rev. H. G. Sowards, pastor of the M. E. Church, South, of which Mr. Borders had long been a faithful and leading member. He was also a charter member of the Paintsville lodge of Masons which took part in the burial services. Interment was made in the old Mayo burial ground near West Van Lear by the side of his wife who died some time ago. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 4, 1919

 

BRYANT, Wade

Wade Bryant, of Savage Branch, one of the county’s most prominent citizens, died Saturday morning at his home after an illness of several weeks. He is survived by his wife and several grown sons and daughters, one of the sons having seen service in France. Mr. Bryant was 65 years old. The funeral occurred at the home Sunday afternoon and was preached by Rev. Mr. Samuels of the Buchanan Circuit M. E. Church South. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18,1919

 

BURCHETT, Bert

Clyde and Earl Burchett are home attending the funeral of their brother, Albert (Bert) who was killed accidently last week at Shelby, Pike County, by the overturning of his wagon. Bert was only 17 years of age, and his untimely death is a shock and grief to the county. He is survived by his widow, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Burchett of Alvin, KY and by several brothers and sisters. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

CHAFFIN, Ernest

A letter to Miss Irene Chaffin, of Christmas, this county, from a comrade of her brother, Ernest Chaffin, contains the following: Ernest was in France 3 weeks before he took sick, was not in any battle nor anyways near the front. We left New York Aug 16, sailed for Liverpool, England, arriving Aug 28, and arrived in France Sep 6. About the 28th he took pneumonia and died Oct 14. He was buried in A. E. F. Cemetery No. 331 Oct 16. His casket was like those in the States. He was put away nicely and in a beautiful place. A service was held by the chaplain. I visited his grave a week or so ago and it sure is kept nice. There is a nice wooden cross at the head with his name, regiment and serial number on it and date of his death. The cemetery is fenced in good shape and well cared for. The inscription is “Pvt. Ernest Chaffin, C. B. 34 Engrs, died Oct 14, 1918. Serial No. 3698236 A. E. F. Cemetery No. 231. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

CHATFIELD, Alice

Catlettsburg, KY—Miss Alice Chatfield, who had previously resided here with her brother, L. G. Chatfield and Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Conley until their removal to Huntington, died very suddenly at her home at Delta, OH, Wednesday morning last week. She was a lovely woman, refined, religious, kind and gentle. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

CLARK, George W.

Friends of George W. Clark, retired merchant of Denton, will regret to know of his death which occurred at noon on Tuesday last week at his home. Mr. Clark was 63 years of age and was one of the best known business men in this section of Kentucky. His death was due to Bright’s disease from which he had been an invalid for several yeas. He was a prominent Odd Fellow and a man highly honored for his integrity and high standard of ideals. His wife survives. He was buried at Denton Thursday morning. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

CYRUS, Jack

At the home of his son, Joe Cyrus near Louisa, Jack Cyrus passed away last Sunday. He was 90 years of age. His body was taken to Tabors Creek, WV where interment took place on Monday. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 4, 1919

 

DALTON, James Jerome

1830-1919

The following from the Ashland Independent refers to a former citizen of Lawrence County, whose body was brought last Saturday to Fullers, below Louisa, for burial. Dr. James J. Dalton, aged citizen of Kenova, passed away at 8:30 Thursday morning. Mr. Dalton had been ill for 2 months but for the last 3 weeks he had grown gradually weaker. James Jerome Dalton was born at Louisville, KY, in 1830 and was married in 1862, to Miss Amelia Ann Rice of Liverpool, England. He was a Confederate soldier in the Civil War. He was a member of the M. E. Church South and lived a devoted Christian all his life. After the Civil War he moved his family to Lawrence County, KY where he took up the practice of medicine. He will long be remembered in that vicinity for the night was never too cold nor the snow too deep that he did not cross the hills to minister to the sick. After the death of his wife in 1889? He moved with his family to Fullers, where he purchased a general merchandise store. He later moved to Kenova and resided with his son and daughter until the time of his death. Three brothers preceded him in death. He was a brother of the late M. A. Dalton, president of the Consolidated Lock Co., Cincinnati, OH. He was the father of 11 children, 2 of whom have preceded him in death. Five of his children were at his bedside when death came, the others being unable to be there on account of sickness in their own families. He is survived by 9 children, 21 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. The funeral services took place at his home in Kenova Friday afternoon conducted by Rev. Burl S. Akers. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

DIAMOND, Chris

Twin Branch, KY—We are very sorry to hear of the death of Chris Diamond. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 4, 1919

 

DIAMOND, Grace

The death of Mrs. John R. Diamond occurred last Sunday night at her home near Louisa. She had been ill quite a while with pneumonia and recently suffered an attack of influenza from which she never fully recovered. She was 35 years old. Mrs. Diamond before marriage was Miss Grace Diamond, daughter of David Diamond, deceased. She is survived by her husband and 8 children, 7 sons and one daughter. On Tuesday afternoon the funeral service was held at the home by Rev. H. B. Hewlett of this city. Burial at Smokey Valley. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 4, 1919

 

ELKINS, Jim

Pikeville, KY—“Uncle Jim Elkins” passed away suddenly at the home of his grandson Sunday afternoon after experiencing pain in his arm and side but a few minutes before. He had been in jovial spirits chatting with friends. For 46 years he had been confined to his bed by rheumatism but during the greater part of the time he had chosen to labor with his hands and had constantly engaged in repairing shoes. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 11, 1919

 

GOODWIN, Arch

The body of Arch Goodwin was brought to Louisa on Wednesday for burial. He was one of 4 men instantly killed at Torrent Monday. He was married about 2 years ago to Miss Jane Pack, of this place, at that time being employed here. His wife survives. The following account was given by employees of the factory who accompanied the bodies to Winchester where they were prepared for burial: The cause of the explosion in the nitroglycerine factory of the Home Torpedo Company, at Torrent, Wolfe County, Monday afternoon, which resulted in the instant death of four men, probably will never be known. None but the four victims was at work in the plant, which manufactures explosive for oil drillers and coal operators in the eastern section of the state. The dead men, all of whom were married are:

Arch Goodwin, 40 years old, Louisa

C. E. Kilmer, 42 years old, of Bolivar, NY

Charles Best, 30 years old of Knighttown, IN

Carl Hudson, 21 years old, Catlettsburg.

The men are believed to have been running away from the plant when death overtook them, as their bodies were found 50 yards from the wrecked factory, face downward and near one another. They were not severely mutilated. The Home Torpedo Company was established about 18 months ago. It is owned by Bradford, PA capital. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 11, 1919

 

HAMPTON, Elwood

Elwood Hampton, whose death in France was reported recently, was the son of Purla Hampton who died in Louisa a few years ago of smallpox. Elwood’s mother moved to Volga, Johnson County and it was from there he enlisted for army service. He was a grandson of Mrs. Henson and nephew of Bert Hampton of this place. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 4, 1919

 

HARMON, Grace

The body of Mrs. Harmon nee Miss Grace Chaffins was brought to Inez for burial Saturday. The body was accompanied by the husband, sons, and other relatives of the deceased, also by several brother members of the Woodman Lodge who acted as pallbearers. Funeral services were conducted in the M.E. church South, the sermon being preached by the Rev. Johnson of Williamson. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

HATFIELD, Charles

Deputy Sheriff Ed. Taylor made a very important arrest a short distance below Louisa Monday. The man proves to be Charles Music charged with murdering Charles Hatfield at Ashland last Saturday night. The arrest was made upon advice received by telephone, saying that the man had stolen a horse from George Belcher, at Glenwood, Sunday evening just after dark. James Taylor pursued him and found that he had lost his way at Jeff Collinsworth’s and become very much confused. He left the horse at that place and was on foot when arrested He was tried Wednesday and held to answer to the grand jury. He gave the name of Grim in court, but had previously claimed two other names.

 

Sheriff W. M. Taylor suspected Wednesday that the man was Music, and after consulting the Ashland police by telephone he found the description fitted the man. Confronted with certain facts the man finally admitted his identity and also that he was with the gang that shot Hatfield, but denied having fired the fatal shot. Deputy Sheriff J. H. Woods took Music to Ashland Wednesday evening and delivered him to the police force. Music is a desperate character who has been running wild in the Big Sandy Valley for several months. He is wanted for desertion from the army and also for robbing the Prestonsburg post office where he blew the safe. He is also wanted at Garrett for a similar robbery. At Beaver Creek Junction he rifled 15 or more sacks of mail. He is charged with the robberies at Harold and Black Diamond.

 

On last Saturday night Music and Edward Bradley held up the proprietor of the Bragg Hotel in Ashland and robbed the place, tearing down the telephone and threatening to kill the hotel man if he gave an alarm. Later he notified the police and among those who responded was officer Charles Hatfield. The men in hiding and shot him fatally. He died a few hours later. Bradley was arrested but Music escaped to the hills. Hatfield was a native of Lowmansville, Lawrence county, a son of the late Lewis Hatfield and a brother of Robert and Kenas Hatfield. He was 42 years old, leaves one son and had been a resident of Ashland for nearly 20 years. Rewards amounting to about $1200 had been offered for the arrest of Music. No doubt he will get whit is coming to him now. He is said to be a son of John Music of Tom’s Creek, Johnson County. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 4, 1919

 

HAZLETT, Robert

Mt. Zion—Robert Hazlett, a former citizen of East Fork, was found death in bed Sunday morning. He was at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ike Fannin, at Culbertson. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 11, 1919

 

HICKS, Eleanro Jane

The death of Mrs. Eleanor Jane Hicks occurred at her home near Hicksville, this county, last Thursday. The cause was a stroke of paralysis suffered about 2 weeks before. She was 70 years old. Attorney John C. Hicks, a son of Logan, WV was among the relatives from a distance who came to attend the funeral and burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 11, 1919

 

KITCHEN, Mace

Webbville, KY—A very sad event occurred at this place Wednesday Mar 19, about 2 o’clock. Mace Kitchen, a well known man of this place, was plowing in the field when he died suddenly with heart failure. When he left home he was feeling well as usual. He had had very bad attacks of heart trouble for some time. Mr. Kitchen leaves a wife and 6 children to mourn the loss. His body was laid to rest in the Hensley graveyard. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 4, 1919

 

MAYNARD, John H.

John H. Maynard met instant death early Wednesday morning while at his work as a contractor in the Howard, Jr. mine of the Chattaroy, WV Coal Co., Maynard was caught beneath a fall of stone from the top and so badly crushed that he died instantly. John Gilliam, who was working with him escaped with out injury. Mr. Maynard was 27 years of age. He was born and reared in Pike County where his parents are still living. He is also survived by his wife, who is a daughter of Mr. Mont Stepp, 3 children and several brothers and sisters. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

MEADE, Alice

Miss Alice Meade died Wednesday of typhoid fever at the hospital in Louisa. She had taken violently ill with the disease at the home of relatives near Richardson and was brought to the hospital a day or two before her death. She was a daughter of Clark Meade and a granddaughter of the late Simon Bartlett. She was an excellent young woman. She has one brother who is in the navy, but is now here on furlough. These 2 children were left orphans at an early age and were educated at the Masonic Widows and Orphans Home in Louisville. They are relatives of Robert Dixon’s family of this city. The burial will take place at the Borders graveyard near Richardson Friday. Big Sandy news, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

MILLER, Sylvester

The Rev. Sylvester Miller died at his home near Chestnut, Johnson County, Apr 17. He was about 88 years old. He lived with his brother, John Miller. He served as a Union soldier in the Civil War and was a citizen of Lawrence County several years. Funeral and burial took place on Friday in the family burial ground near the home. He was a cousin of Rev. A. H. Miller of Lick Creek. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

MORELL, Alice

Mrs. Alice Morell, nee Alice Jones, widow of the late Judge F. H. Morell, died Monday night of last week at the home of her sister, Mrs. T. O. Burchett of Bright’s disease and complications. She was 55 years of age, was of strong personality, popular among a host of friends, and beloved by the community. The funeral took place from the Burchett residence Wednesday morning, conducted by Rev. H. K. Moore of the M. E. Church South, of which church she had been a loyal member since girlhood. Herr burial in the Weddington Cemetery by the side of her husband, Judge Morell. She is survived by 3 brothers and 3 sisters as follows, James Jones, Frank Jones of Wheelwright, and W. H. Jones, Mrs. Lizzie Maynard, Mrs. W. H. Loar of Elkhorn City and Mrs. T. O. Burchett. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

NEAL, Addie (Heston)

Mrs. Addie Neal died on Tuesday afternoon at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. T. V. Heston, of Louisa, after a lingering illness of tuberculosis. She is survived by her husband, G. C. Neal, and 3 little children, who with their mother have been at this place several weeks. She was a good woman and her death brings sorrow to many friends and relatives. Funeral service was held Thursday morning, burial following on Pine Hill. Relatives were called here from Chicago and Mr. and Mrs. Zeb Heston came from Nitro, WV to attend the funeral. Rev. H. B. Hewlett conducted the service. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

PATRICK, Abigail (Salyer)

Mrs. Abigail Patrick, the widow of the late Wesley Patrick of Salyersville, KY died at her home near Salyersville, Apr 12, 1919, surviving her late husband less than 3 months. Mrs. Patrick was a granddaughter of Zachariah Salyer who came to America from Scotland before the Revolutionary War. She was born at Oil Springs, Johnson County, May 2, 1838, and was 80 years, 11 months and 20 days of age. She was the mother of 12 sons and daughters and is survived by all as follows: Circuit Judge A. T. Patrick of this city, Bascom Patrick, Mrs. W. L. May, Mrs. D. B. Patrick, and Dona Patrick of Salyersville, Mrs. Oliver Patrick of Ivyton, Jeff Patrick of Lakeville, Mrs. James Rowland of Winchester, Deda Patrick, Malcolm Patrick and Benjamin Patrick. Besides these immediate relatives Mrs. Patrick was related to the Conley of Floyd and Johnson; the Davises of Johnson and Morgan, the Burnses of Lawrence and the Litterals of Johnson and the Salyers of Magoffin and Johnson. Judge A. T. Patrick was holding Circuit Court at Hindman when he was summoned to the bedside of his mother, but she passed away before he could make the 50 mile journey of mule back. Mrs. Patrick was widely known throughout her long life. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her funeral was preached by Rev. Grizzel of Salyersville. Big Sandy News, Apr 25, 1919

 

PERRY, Elias

Elias Perry, one of the leading citizens of Mill creek died Sunday. He had had the flu and it was followed by other complications. He is survived by a widow and the following children: sons, Albert, Ballard, Andy, Arnold, Gus, Elias, Jr. and Fred and several daughters. He was a member of the Pleasant Baptist Church and had been a minister for several years. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

RICE, R. F.

Rev. R. F. Rice, one of the oldest ministers in the Western Virginia Conference in point of service and also in years, died at his home near Fallsburg Monday, after an illness of several months. The body was laid to rest in the family burial ground. Rev. H.B. Hewlett preached the funeral and the Odd Fellows had charge of the burial service. He had been a preacher in the Southern Methodist Church for about 54 years, continuing his labors until a year or two ago. His age was 79 years. He was quite successful as an evangelist and held many meetings throughout the country districts. His wife and several grown sons and one daughter, Mrs. Jennie Wheeler, of Huntington, survive him. Big Sandy news, Friday, Apr 4, 1919

 

SMITH, Mrs. James

Mrs. James Smith, of Gragston died at her home and was buried in the family burying ground on the 10th of the month. Her maiden name was Canada. She was an excellent lady, a member of the Gragston Baptist Church. She leaves a husband and several children all grown. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

SNYDER, Dorcas

1826-1919

News of the death of Mrs. Dorcas Snyder was received by Louisa relatives Tuesday, she having passed away at 2 o’clock that morning at the home of her son near Rappsburg, OH. Mrs. Snyder was 93 years, 2 months and 2 days old, having been born Feb 13, 1826. Up until a few days ago her health was remarkably good. Her death followed a short illness from a cold. It was her custom to visit her sons and daughters at a distance every year or two and only last spring she made a journey of several hundred miles to a daughter’s home and after a few weeks returned to the old home near Ironton where she remained and continued to look after her own house as long as she lived. She had gone to visit a daughter who resided a few miles away and was returning when she became ill at the home of her son, Ben Snyder, where her death occurred. She is survived by several sons and daughters among whom are 2 of Louisa’s prominent citizens, T. J. and Augustus Snyder. They both went to her bedside Saturday. Other going later to attend the funeral which was held from the home church Thursday morning at 10 were Mrs. Augustus Snyder, Mrs. Arch McClure, Miss Sallie Burns and Gus H. Snyder. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

SPARKS, Carrie Irene

Plain City, OH—The death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. D. L. Sparks on Tuesday,, Mar 11 at 5 o’clock and took from them their baby daughter, Carrie Irene Sparks. She was 15 months and 10 days old. Her death was caused by influenza and pneumonia. At the time of her death all of the members of the family were sick. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 11, 1919

 

TRIMBLE

In Morgan County, on Straight Creek, a tragic accident occurred in which 2 lives were lost. Mrs. Nelson Trimble was ill and unable to arise from her bed when her little 10 year old daughter, Eula, caught fire from an open grate. The child was burned so badly that she died that night and the shock was so great that the mother died Wednesday morning. Both mother and daughter were buried in the same grave. West Liberty Courier. Big Sandy news, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

WARD, Osa

Mrs. John Sparks, of this city, has just received intelligence that her brother, Osa Ward, was killed in France Oct 4. Young Ward was reported missing in battle, but it was not known until now that he had been killed. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ward of Offutt, Johnson County and 7 brothers and sisters. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 18, 1919

 

WHITTAKER, J. W.

The death of J. W. Whittaker occurred at Frenchburg, KY. He was a native of Floyd County, having been born on Middle Creek, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wiley Whittaker. He married a Miss Artrip of Salyersville, but moved to Menifee County a good many years ago where he acquired large holdings and was very influential. He lost his wife several years ago. His death was caused by heart failure. He was a member of the Christian Church. Ben Whittaker who lives on the Kentucky river is a brother. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

WROTEN, George W.

After many long months of feeble health, rendering him practically helpless, Dr. George W. Wroten found sweet release in a painless death Wednesday morning, Apr 9. Without a struggle his body gave up the spirit that had animated it for 81 years. For several days his condition had been hopeless. Family and friends kept constant watch over him. His hearing was remarkably acute, but for about 2 years he had been deprived of one of his greatest joys, that of reading. All his life he had suffered from defective eyesight and for several months he had been almost blind. His only living daughter, Mrs. J. F. Rodarmor, of Brooklyn, NY, arrived Thursday of last week. George, eldest son, will reach here from San Antonio, TX Friday of this week. The other son, Milton, is a soldier in France. The funeral will take place Saturday morning at 9 o’clock at the residence. Interment in Pine Hill cemetery. The Rev, Mr. Harrison, of the Episcopal Church, Ashland, will conduct the services.

 

He was a native of Maysville, KY, and was educated there and at the old Transylvania College at Lexington, which was then the best school in Kentucky. He received his medical education at the Jefferson Medical college in Philadelphia. He enlisted in the Confederate army as a surgeon and served until the war ended. Then for a time he engaged in newspaper work in Louisville, starting as a reporter on Mr. Halderman’s paper, later becoming a proof reader This work he was compelled to give up because his eyes were not good enough for the exacting duties. Soon afterward, in 1866, he was engaged to come to Louisa and take charge of the Masonic Academy, a high school established by the Masons in the brick building still standing on the Masonic lot. Here he taught many young persons of the Big Sandy Valley who have become prominent in professions and in business circles in other parts of the world.

 

Later he took up the practice of medicine in Louisa and devoted himself to that for many years. In the meantime he had married Miss Mary, daughter of Capt. Milton Freese, prominent steamboatman and business man. She survived him. In 1886, Dr. Wroten was offered a government appointment as Superintendent of Indian Schools on a reservation in South Dakota and accepted it, remaining there 5 years. The saddest experience of his life came to him there in the drowning of his daughter, Minnie, who had been married to Lieutenant Earl Carnahan only a few months. She was crossing the Missouri River on the ice in a closed ambulance when the ice broke from the weight of the team and carriage. The body was recovered and brought her for burial.

 

Returning here he taught a term or two of school in his efficient and scholarly way. Then he resumed the practice of medicine. About 15 years ago he became associated with the Big Sandy News in an editorial capacity and continued this service along with his professional work until he became physically unable to use a pen or pencil. After dictating articles to a stenographer for some month he finally gave up the work being subject to weakening attacks of heart trouble. He was a faithful member of the Episcopal church. His body will rest by the side of that of his daughter, Minnie in the beautiful cemetery overlooking Louisa. Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 11, 1919

 

YOUNG, Tony A.

The following letter was written by a Kentucky boy to the parents of Tony Young, of this county, but the writer having lost their address gave the letter to David Mayo Young, another Lawrence County boy, who sent it to his sister, Miss Lizzie Young, of Cherokee, to be forwarded to Tony’s parents. A copy was sent to the NEWS office for publication.

 

Bascharage, Luxemburg, Mar. 25

 

My unknown friends:

This letter in some respect is not at all pleasant one for me to write, but to make good my promise to a real American brother soldier and a request from your son and brother, I am writing this letter.

 

In regard to the death of Tony Young, on the night of Nov 4, 1918, as we were marching into the battlefield and just before we crossed the Meuse river and he being in the squad of which I was in charge and he and I being special good friends, he told me he felt uneasy and did not think he would live thru the battle and of course I felt the same way about myself. But, nevertheless, I said all I could to cheer him up, but it seemed as tho’all in vain for he made the remark to me: “Elam if I get killed tonight and you don’t write and tell my folks I an dead, but that I died like a man on the battlefield; and should you die and I don’t, will do the same for you.”

 

We reached the river about 10 o’clock that night and was crossed in same boat, and only marched up the road for a short ways and were commanded to prepare for the battle that would begin by morning. When we got our position there were only a few men between Toney and me and I could hear him talking and about 11 o’clock that night the German spies or sharpshooters were located near us and Tony going for one with his gun and fixed bayonet, the other shot him and he called me by name and said he was killed and then we were busily engaged with the Germans. I am glad to say the men that killed Tony Young were soon dead.

 

Father, mother and sisters, you should all be proud of Tony. There never was a braver American soldier faced the enemy than he wand he certainly died a hero.

 

I did not know tony at Camp Traylor, but after being sent to Chickamauga Park, GA, we were in the same company and there we made the best of friends and were great pals at the time of his death. He was liked by all the boys who knew him.

 

I should have done his request sooner but sorry to say could not remember his address. But Mayo Young, a cousin of his, who is in this company and a friend of mine, wrote to his sister for Tony’s home address and failing to get the letter and being in my room tonight and knowing I was with Tony at the time of his death, said I should write the letter and he would send it to his sister and thru her you would receive same.

 

The family of Tony Young has my greatest heartfelt sympathy due to his death. They have lost a brave and brilliant boy. He will be remembered in days to come by all the boys who knew him and especially by myself for I never had a better friends.

 

With greatest regret in the world for losing him I will close.

 

Sincerely yours,

O. M. Elam

Co., A, 6th U. S. Inf. A. E. F., A.P.O. 745

 

Big Sandy News, Friday, Apr 25, 1919

 

MAY 1919

 

ADAMS, Amos

Overda, KY—The death angel visited the home of Mr. J. C. Adams and wife and took from them their loving son Amos. He was laid to rest in the family graveyard. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 30, 1919

 

ADKINS, Walter

Grayson—Walter Adkins, 12 years old, son of Lindsey Adkins, was swept away when attempting to wade a stream between his father’s barn and house during a heavy storm. The body was recovered. Big Sandy News, Friday May 16, 1919

 

BARTRAM

The wife of Dr. Jay Bartram died at Fort Gay Wednesday evening. She was about 40 years old and was a daughter of Ransom Marcum, formerly of Louisa. She has been in poor health for several years. The husband and 6 children survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

BERRY, J. M.

Mr. J. M. Berry died at his home in Ashland Wednesday. He was 84 years old and is survived by one son, Dr. W. A. Berry and 3 daughters, Mrs. Carrie Webb, Miss Laura Berry and Mrs. J. W. Bosley. He was born in Lawrence county, moved to Virginia when 7 years of age, later returning to this county. In 1870 he moved to Greenup County and recently to Ashland. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

BLAIR, Bradley

Bradley Blair, a motorman in Mine No 4 at Van Lear, was killed Tuesday when he came in contact with a live wire. The funeral and burial took place Wednesday afternoon on Burnt Cabin. He leaves a wife. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 9, 1919

 

BOYD

Mart Boyd’s son, age 23, died here Thursday morning of peritonitis. He was brought to the hospital Wednesday evening in a dying condition. The body was taken to Richardson Thursday evening for burial. He was unmarried. The family formerly lived at Richardson, but moved to Martin County, 2 or 3 years ago. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 16, 1919

 

CHILDRES, Mart

Mart Childers departed this life May 5th at the age of 23 years 10 months and 12 days. He was at the time of his death at Hellier, KY., where he had been working only a short time. Mart served about 8 months in the service of his country at Camp Sheridan and Camp Mcclellan and was discharged early in March. Mart was a highly respected young man and to know him was to love him. How we miss him from our presence. The writer recalls pleasant moments spent with him. He leaves behind to mourn their great loss his aged father, four brothers and one sister, all of whom were present at his funeral. His remains were laid to rest in the Dr. Osborne Cemetery at Whitehouse on May 8th in the presence of a large and sorrowing congregation. A FRIEND. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

CHILDERS, Wesley

Wes Childers, living at Ben Bow, near Richardson, was run over by a freight train last Thursday afternoon and was so badly injured that he died a few hours later.Mr. Childers was 79 years of age, and was possibly a little deaf and did not hear the approaching train. The unfortunate man was removed too his home which was but a few yards away and was given every attention possible but he died about 4 p.m. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

CLAY, Tom

Friday, May 23, the body of Tom Clay was found in the river at White House, 10 miles below Paintsville. On Friday night, May 16, Clay in company with another young man was arrested, it is claimed by T. Mollett for having whiskey in their possession for the purpose of sale. The 2 young men were being brought to Paintsville from Offutt where they were arrested when they made their escape from the officer at Bobbs Branch, about 3 miles below Paintsville. After making their escape Clay was not heard from until his dead body was taken from the river at White House on last Friday. The father of young Clay, who resided near Peach Orchard, claimed the body and it was removed to his old home for burial. Paintsville Herald, Big Sandy News, Friday, May 30, 1919

 

FOSTER, Luster

Luster Foster, son of Mr. and Mrs. Campbell Foster, died at the home of his parents in West Paintsville Friday night and was buried Saturday afternoon, funeral services being conducted by Rev. Burns Conley. A few months ago his wife and baby died with the flu and he was seriously sick at the same time. He never fully recovered from the flu. He was a good citizen and the family have the sympathy of the community. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

HARRIS, Calista (Boyd)

1903-1919

The subject of this sketch, Calista Boyd Harris, daughter of George and Julia Boyd was born Mar 15, 1903. She was left an orphan at the age of 15 months, her mother having died when she was a child. She was converted in the spring of 1917 and united with the M. E. Church South and remained a member of the same until removed by death. She was united in marriage to John B. Harris, Dec 3, 1917. As a result of this union one child was born a girl—Julia Lucile. She was taken sick April 6 while at church, and was taken to the hospital at Matewan, WV the 11th where all was done for her relief that loving hands could do but without results. She suffered on until the angel reaper came and called her spirit home. On the morning of the 12th at about 3 o’clock the summons came and her immortal spirit returned to God who gave it. The funeral was conducted by her pastor, Rev. H. M. Boyd, in the presence of a large and sorrowing congregation, after which her body was laid to rest on the bank of Old Tug River near the town of Thacker, WV to await the resurrection of the just. Mr. and Mrs. H. C. Boyd, New Thacker, WV. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 16, 1919

 

HARRIS, Ishmael

The death angel came to the home of Mrs. Fred Wilson last Friday morning and wafted away the spirit of her father, Mr. Ishmael Harris He was 82 years old and one of the oldest and most prominent citizens of Fort Gay. Mr. Harris leaves 4 children to mourn his loss. Mr. Buck Harris of Fort Gay, Mrs. Bell Smith of Ceredo, and Mrs. Mollie Viceheone of Nashville, TN and Mrs. Lizzie Wilson of Fort Gay, who has had the care of her father for several years and today there is a vacant place in her home that can never be filled again. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 2, 1919

 

HAYS, Sterling

Sterling Hays died of Brights disease at his home at Adams Wednesday night. He had been confined to his bed only a short time. He was about 45 years old and was an industrious and prosperous farmer. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

Sterling Hays was born Dec 5, 1872, died May 21, 1919. When 20 years of age he was married to Emma McComis of Irad and to this union was born 7 children—5 girls and 2 boys, all of whom are living. He has been failing in health for several years but bore his suffering patiently till the end. He claimed that hope, that bids us believe that so assuredly as he has taken his leave, that he has landed safe on that vessel that safely carried, all who embark thereon into the harbor of safety. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. A. L. Moore and W. M. Copley. The body was laid to rest near his home. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 30, 1919

 

HINKLE, John L.

The following article from a Paola, KS newspaper was sent us by Oscar Hinkle, of that place. He is a son of the deceased. Charley Hinkle, of this county, is a brother of John L. and he has 2 sisters living here. John L. Hinkle died at his home in Heavener, OK, Apr 19 of heart trouble. Mr. Hinkle was born in Lawrence County, KY, Nov 22, 1858. When quite a young man he married Fox Haws, who died a few years later. The one son, Oscar A. born to them, survives. In 1884, he came to Kansas and 2 years later married Susie Hawk. Here he lived until about 10 years ago, when he moved to Gentry, Ark., and later to Heavener, OK where he resided at the time of his death. For the past 2 yeas he had been troubled frequently with neuralgia in his head. It later left his head but went to his chest, affecting his heart. About 3 weeks ago he had a severe attack with his heart and it was thought he would not live at that time. All of his children were sent for, but he rallied and seemed to be improving and was feeling fairly well up to the time of his death. Saturday night about 10 o’clock he went into the kitchen to take a dose of medicine and upon entering the room he called to his wife and fell to the floor, expiring immediately. Besides Oscar A. Hinkle, he is survived by his wife, and Elmer O., who is manager of a lumber yard for the Dascomb-Daniels Lumber Co; Luther, who is a bookkeeper for a lumber company at Clayton, NM; Madge, wife of Will Clanahan of Heavener, OK and little Ethelyn, who is 7 years old. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

HOSKINS, John

John Hoskins, aged 35, prominent citizen of Red Jacket, was found dead in the Mitchell Branch Mine of the Red Jacket Consolidated Coal & Coke company, at an early hour this morning. It was believed that Hoskins suffered an attack of heart trouble as on marks of violence was found to indicate any injury. He had been working for the Red Jacket Company for a number of years. At one time he was chief Police of Matewan and a conspicuous figure in local politics. Williamson News. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 16, 1919

 

HOWELL, Mrs. Frank

East Point, KY—Death has again visited our neighborhood and removed from out midst a good woman, Mrs. Frank Howell. Having been sick for many weeks, her death was not unexpected, but nevertheless a grief to her many friends and relatives. She was about 54 years of age and a daughter of the late Jake Webb and is survived by her mother, Mrs. Nancy Webb, one sister and 2 brothers. Her brother, Dr. Tobe Webb being continually at her bedside until the end came. Her youngest son, Bernard is in France, another son, Edgar, lives at Seco and Lawton lives in this place. Mrs. Howell had been for 18 years a member of the Church of God and was a lovely Christian. Funeral services were conducted by H. F. Dunnagan of Louisa and Sparks of Paintsville, after which she was laid to rest on the Enoch Auxier graveyard at lower end of Blockhouse Bottom. Maggie will always be kindly remembers by those who knew her. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 16, 1919

 

ISON, Melvin

Fultz—Mr. Melvin Ison, who had been sick with leakage of the heart for the past 10 months, peacefully but quietly without a word or groan fell asleep in the arms of Jesus, and the silver cord was loosened and his spirit escaped to God who gave it. His mortal remains were kept till Friday evening when they were laid to rest in the beautiful cemetery on the tunnel hill which overlooks the home where he has lived since his marriage. He leaves a wife and 9 sons to mourn the loss of a father and husband. The funeral was preached by Bro. Elijah Wolford and then his body was lowered in a beautiful vault which was covered with stone to await the resurrection morn. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 30, 1919

 

JOHNSON, Zara

ON Wednesday morning of this week Mrs. Zara Johnson, aged 77, died at her home in Louisa. She was the widow of George F. Johnson. She is survived by 4 sons, Brig, Gen., W. O. Johnson, U.S.A., J. R. Johnson, Richmond, KY, J. J. Johnson, Jenkins, KY, F. A. Johnson, Greendale, KY. She leaves one brother, Mr. K. F. Vinson of Louisa. Mrs. Johnson’s health had not been good for many years. She was a devoted mother, taking deep interest in the affairs of her children and always interested in their welfare. A cheerfulness of disposition was one of the striking characteristics of her life. She read much and was conversant with the events of the day. She was a consistent member of the Christian Church. Funeral will be held on Friday. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 9, 1919

 

KITCHEN, Morton Virgil

Jean, KY--On last Wednesday morning the death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Morton Kitchen and took from them their son, Morton Virgil, aged one year, 8 months and 13 days. The funeral discourse was delivered by Rev. Calvin Johnson after which the body was laid to rest in the Hensley Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 9, 1919

 

MEEK, Mary Jane “Polly” (Davis)

The funeral of Mrs. Zepheniah Meek was held at the home and was preached by Rev. A. P. Keyser. Mrs. Meek was the daughter of Joseph and Eliza Borders-Davis and was born and reared in Johnson County. Her birth was on May 5, 1836. She was married to Rev. Zepheniah Meek Nov. 24, 1853. They resided in Paintsville for a time and came here where they resided ever after. Eight children were born to them all of whom are living except one, Rev. Lafayette Meek, who died young. The others are Mrs. G. W. Atkinson of Washington DC, Davis Meek of this city, Mrs. M. V. Brown of Buffalo, WV, Mrs. J. B. Hatten of Independence, MO, Felix Meek and Everett Meek of this city, and Irwin Meek of Florence, CO. Prof. G. W. Atkinson of Washington, DC, Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Hatten and daughters, Miss Lucille of Independence, MO, Mrs. and Mrs. M. V. Brown and son and Mrs. Carl Atkinson of Buffalo, WV, arrived to be present at the funeral. Mrs. Meek had ever been a devoted wife and mother and was a sweet consecrated Christina woman. Her husband preceded her in death several years ago. For the past few years she had spent her summers with Prof. and Mrs. Atkins, they coming here and spending the winters with her at the old home. Her old age had been a very happy one, her children being much devoted to her. Mrs. Meek was a sister-in-law of Mrs. Huldah Meek, of Ashland, and an aunt of Mrs. S. F. Fetter, also of Ashland. Irvin Meek of Colorado, was the only member of the family not present. He was prevented from coming by the illness of his young daughter. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 9,1919

 

NEWBERRY, Frazier

Frazier Newberry, aged 19, died in North Carolina where he had gone for the benefit of his health. He had been sick since last fall when he had influenza. He was the only son of Jeff Newberry of Huntington and was a brilliant young man. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

OVERSTREET, James H.

Pikeville, KY—James H. Overstreet, died at the home of his sister, Mrs. R. T. Bowling on Big Branch of tuberculosis. He was 51 years old and leaves one son who lives in St. Louisa and 2 sisters, Mrs. W. L. Bowling of Nitro, WV and Mrs. R. T. Bowling. He was employed here in a grocery company for some time. Burial took place at Big Branch. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 2, 1919

 

PIGG, Kate

Mrs. Kate Pigg died Tuesday morning at 4 after an illness of several weeks. She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Friend, and one daughter, Mrs. Oscar Blankenship. The funeral and burial took place Wednesday. Relatives from Williamson, WV, were among those who came to attend the funeral. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

RANDOLPH, Burgess P.

Paintsville, KY—Burgess P. Randolph was born Nov 6, 1847 in Lawrence Co., KY and died at his home near Paintsville, May 18, 1919. Mr. Randolph was married twice. His first wife was Amanda Vanhoose, who died in 1892. In 1897, he married Malissa Dixon, who died in 1898. He is survived by 2 sons, Lester, engineer on the C & O and living at Paint Creek, WV and Herschel of Paintsville and one sister, Mrs. Angie Castle and one brother, J. B. Randolph of Paintsville. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 30, 1919

 

RATCLIFF, Dicy

Another noble woman has been called to the great beyond, Mrs. Dicy Ratcliff, who resided at Clifford, KY, departed this life Sunday morning Apr 27, 1919, after a continued illness, aged 67 years. She was the widow of Rev. Albert Ratcliff, who died suddenly a few years ago. Mrs. Ratcliff was greatly admired by all who knew her. One who ever entered her hospitable home was always desirous of returning. She was a faithful member of the Baptist church and lived a true and consistent Christian life. Having been converted and taking vows of the church many years ago she did not turn away from her Master but ever looked to Him as the hope and expectation of her soul. She leaves to mourn her loss one daughter and 5 sons. Mrs. Ratcliff was a sister of Mrs. T. J. Branham and Mrs. J. W. Pinson of Louisa. Big Sandy news, Friday, May 2, 1919

 

RICE, Mrs. Forest

Mrs. Forest Rice, of Asa, died in an Ashland hospital Monday. She was the daughter of Mrs. Jane Conley. She leaves a husband, 2 small children and a host of friends and relatives. The funeral was held Wednesday and the remains were laid to rest near her home on Jennies Creek. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

RILEY, W. M.

After a lingering illness W. M. Riley passed away last Wednesday at his home at Cadmus, this county. He was 67 years old and was a prominent and prosperous citizen of the county. The funeral was held on Thursday with burial near the home. Mr. Riley had been sick 18 weeks of diabetes and other troubles. He was recently converted and joined the M. E. Church South. Rev. H. C. Conley conducted the funeral services. Mr. Riley is survived by the widow and sons, Joe, Roll, Walter, Lyman and Ed. ; daughters, Marie, Opal and Mrs. Lou Carrington of Carbondale, WV. Roll has been in the regular army several years and is now with the troops in Russia. Ed only recently returned from army service. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 30, 1919

 

SALYER, G. W.

Mr. G. W. Salyer, aged 64 years, died at his home at Hood’s Creek, Saturday morning from the effects of pneumonia and influenza. He had been ill for several weeks. The funeral services were conducted at his home and burial took place near the home. He is survived by his wife and the following daughters and sons: Mrs. Isom Gillum of Fairview, Mrs. C. T. Jennings of Butte, MT., W. H. Salyer of this city, A. E. Salyer of Philadelphia, PA, J. F. Salyer, R. N. Salyer of Denver, CO and John Salyer of Isonville, KY—Ashland Independent. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 9, 1919

 

SMALL, Albert

Albert small, age about 14, is reported to have been waylaid by 3 men and killed near Peach Orchard a few days ago. He was a son of Jesse Small. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 16, 1919

 

SMALL, Ralph

Prestonsburg, KY—Ralph Small of Harold, KY, was shot while on his way home from Sheridan Clark’s where he had been calling. Three boys are charged with the shooting. Small was only 15 years of age and the Moore boys are from 18 to 20 years old. The Small boy was of excellent reputation in the neighborhood, the son of J. P. Small, superintendent of the Harold Coal & Coke Co. the young man was shot twice from the rear, one shot taking effect in the head and the other in the back. He was taken to the King’s Daughters Hospital at Ashland, KY. He never recovered consciousness and died Saturday morning. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 30, 1919

 

STUMP, Charles

After only a week’s illness Charles Stump, age 54, died in Bluefield, WV, where he had lived about a year and a half. He was a successful real estate dealer. His wife and one daughter survive. Also, 2 brothers, John F. Stump of Logan, WV and Oscar Stump of Portsmouth, OH. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

THOMPSON, Albert

Pikeville, KY—The funeral of Albert Thompson, 86 years old, who died last Thursday night at the home of his son, Henry Thompson, Zebulon, was held there Saturday. Mr. Thompson was a veteran of the war between the states, having served in Company D, 39th Kentucky, more than 3 years. His widow is 84 years old. He is survived by 5 sons, R. Thompson, Pikeville, Anthony Thompson, Williamson, WV, H. Thompson, and Albert Thompson, Zebulon, and William Thompson, Columbus, OH and 3 daughters, Mrs. Martha Burnett, Pikeville and Mrs. Nanep and Mrs. Margaret Charles, Zebulon. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 9, 1919

 

VAUGHAN, Capt. Enoch Rector

Capt. Rector Vaughan has passed into another sphere. He had been a sufferer for the past 8 or 9 years but at times grew better and was able to be about. Captain and Mrs. Vaughan resided with Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Emerick. Mrs. Emerick being their only daughter. Captain Vaughan was a pioneer steamboat man of the days when steamboat navigation was practically the only mode of travel and transportation to this portion of the Ohio Valley. He was a fine man in every sense of the word, was a devoted husband and father and was in turn idolized by his family. He was the last surviving member of a family of 8 children of Atwell and Susan Butcher Vaughan and was of fine old Virginia extraction. His forbears having been distinguished in the walks of like in the “Old Dominion” and the service of their country. Capt. Vaughan was born Aug 6, 1838 in Wood Co., VA now West Virginia. He came to Catlettsburg in 1858 and had since lived here. He was married to Miss Mary Lou Borders of Paintsville, KY, on May 12, 1875, and they had always resided here. Capt. Vaughan was the oldest member of Hampton Lodge which held him in such high esteem. Capt. Vaughan joined the M. E. Church South in this city in 1858, during a revival conducted by the distinguished Dr. J. F. Medley. He is survived by his wife and 3 children. Stewart K. Vaughan of Paintsville, KY, Mrs. John E. Emerick of this city, and Charles W. Vaughan of Bridgeport, OH; and an adopted daughter, Miss Anna Borders, who is a niece of Mrs. Vaughan. The funeral was held at the home on Chestnut Street and was conducted by Rev. Arden P. Keyser, pastor of M. E. Church South, assisted by Rev. B. S. Akers, Baptist minister of Ceredo. Burial in the family plot in Ashland Cemetery. Big Sandy news, Friday, May 23, 1919

 

WALKER, Garnet

Garnet Walker was shot and almost instantly killed at Martin, Floyd County, last Sunday. He and others had been drinking together, it is said, and in the usual brawl following such gatherings, Walker was shot in the back by one of the parties. He was a son of Dan Walker, who lives near Fort Gay, WV. He had been working at Drift, a point not far from Martin. The body was brought home for burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 9, 1919

 

WARREN, Charles

Charles Warren died last Friday, Apr 25, at this home at Buchanan, this county. He was born at Tiverton, Devonshire, England, Feb 1, 1839 and at the time of his death was 80 years 2 months and 24 days old. He came to American when only a boy. He enlisted in the Confederate army soon after the beginning of hostilities and fought until the close of the war at which time he accompanied his friend and comrade, the late John Smith, to the Big Sandy Valley and has been a highly respected citizen ever since. He and Dr. J. F. Hatten have been partners in the mercantile business for almost half a century. Mr. Warren was married to Miss Mariah J. Wright, daughter of the Rev. Joseph Wright, Jun 10, 1873. to this union 2 children were born. The daughter is Mrs. S. S. Smith of Tonawanda, NY, who lovingly supplied her father every want during his last illness. The son, Dr. Manley C. Warren, who was one of Kentucky’s brightest physicians, preceded his father to the Great Beyond only a few years ago. Mr. Warren was a faithful and consistent member of the Southern Methodist Church for more than 50 years and one of Buchanan’s most prominent citizens. The funeral was preached Sunday at Kavanaugh Chapel by the Rev. H. B. Hewlett of Louisa and interment took place in Kavanaugh. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 2, 1919

 

WEBB, Florence

Webbville, KY—The death angel visited the home of Mrs. Rebecca Webb last Thursday morning and took her daughter, Florence Webb. She had been sick for some time and knew that death was near and was ready to die. Interment in the family cemetery overlooking the home. Big Sandy News, Friday, May 9, 1919

 

JUNE 1919

 

BALL, Willie Belle

On May 29, near the hour 9 p.m. the pale horse and its rider entered the home of Mr. and Mrs. Elza Ball and claimed for its victim their loving daughter, Willie Belle, age 19 years, 5 months and 3 days. At the age of 11 she was converted and was baptized and united with the M. E. Church at Walnut Gap, to which she proved a faithful member unto death. She had been in failing health for several months, but her friends didn’t known that her useful life was son near an end until a few weeks ago. The funeral took place at the home, conducted by Revs. Copley and Ball. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

 

BLACKBURN, Charlie

Pikeville, KY—On last Sunday evening we were all shocked by the sad intelligence that Charlie Blackburn, 17 years old, son of B. F. Blackburn, was run down by N & W passenger train No. 16 about one mile east of Matewan. He and other youngsters were alongside of a west bound freight which prevented his hearing the approach of the fatal train until too late. He was taken to the Matewan hospital where he died in about 2 hours. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 13, 1919

 

BRANHAM, Johnie Annabel

Johnnie Annabel, bright little 18 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Branham of Chadwick’s Creek, met death Wednesday in a peculiar manner. She pulled a cup of hot coffee off a table and some was spilled over her face and breast death resulting shortly afterward. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

 

BUCKLEY, James H.

James H. Buckley, died at Estep Sunday night. He was 69 years old and a prominent farmer. He was born at Grayson and moved to Lawrence County many years ago. For quite a while his health had been failing and for 2 months he had rapidly grown weaker. His death was caused by tuberculosis. He had been a conscientious member of the M. E. Church, South for many years. His life being patterned after its teaching. His wife survived him and a large family of 6 sons and 4 daughters. They are Rev. J. C. Buckley of McHehan, WV, A. J. Buckley of Ashland, KY, W. R. and B. H. Buckley of Sciotoville, OH, T. R. and Wayne Buckley, who have remained in the parental home, Mrs. A. S. Neal and Mrs. Ogle of Ashland, Mrs. Ethel Bolt, of Bolts Fork and Miss Madge Buckley, also at home. One brother survives, Alpha Buckley of Grayson and one sister, Mrs. John Gee of Rush, a widow of only a few weeks. Funeral was held Wednesday. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 13, 1919

 

BURGESS, Mrs. William

Mrs. William Burgess died last Sunday morning in the hospital in Louisa. Her death was unexpected as she was thought to be doing very well after a serious operation performed several days previous to her death. She had been in poor health a long time. Burial took place near her old home on Lick Creek. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 13, 1919

 

CALLOWAY, Virgie (Williamson)

Pikeville, KY—after a lingering illness which resulted from the effects of influenza, Mrs. Thomas Calloway, of Virginia passed away Friday at her old home in this city. A few days previous to her death, at her request she was brought here from a hospital at Alexandria, VA where she had been under treatment for several weeks. Her husband, her mother and a trained nurse accompanied her. She was Miss Virgie Williamson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Williamson. She was about ?0 years old and had lived an exemplary life from childhood. Since their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Calloway had lived in Virginia. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 28, 1919

 

CARTER, Mrs. Kire

Busseyville, KY—We are sorry to hear of the death of Mrs. Kire Carter of Dry Ridge. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

COPLEY, Mrs. Eliot

Inez, KY--The death of Mrs. Eliot Copley occurred on last Friday morning. Funeral services were conducted in the United Baptist Church on Saturday morning. Beside a large circle of friends and relatives Mrs. Copley leaves a husband and 3 little children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 28, 1919

 

COPLEY, Wayne

One of the good citizens of Wayne County, WV, Wayne Copley, died Tuesday very suddenly. He was apparently as well as usual when he left home and went to the store of B. P. Toney. While alone in a small rear room of the store death came to Mr. Copley and the fact was not known until a little while afterward, when some one went in there. Mr. Copley was 68 years old. He was a brother of L. M. Copley of Ashland, G.M. Copley, Ali Copley and William Copley. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 20, 1919

 

FANNIN, James L.

James L. Fannin, of Culbertson, Boyd County, died suddenly while sitting in a chair on the porch of a hotel at Catlettsburg had just driven in from his home a distance of 12 miles to consult a physician and while talking to him fell over dead. He had suffered for quite a while from heart and stomach trouble. He was 48 years old and was the oldest son of Phil S. Fannin. A wife and 7 children survive. His father arrived from Florida to attend the funeral. Mr. Fannin was one of Boyd County’ substantial citizens. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 13, 1919

 

FARLEY, Thomas B.

The venerable Thomas B. Farley, aged 84 years, died Tuesday night at his home near Bias post office on Elk Fork of Pigeon Creek after an illness of some duration Mr. Farley was a life long resident of Logan and Mingo Counties and was highly esteemed and respected for his many excellent qualities. No man enjoyed a better reputation for honesty and integrity and he was always steadfast for the right. Deceased is survived by his wife, who was Miss Nancy Pinson, born and reared in Pike County and related to a number of prominent families throughout this section. He is also survived by 7 sons, 4 of whom are prominent physicians. They are Drs. Will H. Farley, of Holden, H. H. Farley of Logan, Rush Farley of Holden, and J.F. Farley of Logan County. The other sons, James A. John and Anderson are residents of this county. Mingo Republican. Big Sandy news, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

 

HARMAN, C. P.

Returning from picking flowers for Decoration day Mr. C. P. Harmon, who lived at Freeburn near Williamson, WV dropped death of heart trouble. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

 

HATFIELD, Mattie

Pikeville, KY—Death visited the home of Richard Keesee and took Miss Mattie Hatfield, aged about 80. She had been an invalid and cripple about 40 years. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 13, 1919

 

HUTCHISON, George W.

George W. Hutchison, a well-known citizen of Kenova, was instantly killed at Camden park Sunday morning by having been caught on the shafting and pulleys of the pump used for pumping water. His skull was crushed and his body badly mangles. The body was taken to Olive Hill, KY and buried. He was about 35 years of age and leaves a wife and one child. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

 

LAMBERT, Herman Fred

Herman Fred Lambert, aged 19 yeas, while playing with an “unloaded revolver” at Portsmouth, OH, were he lived, Saturday accidentally shot himself in the head and died a short time after the accident. He was the son of Harvey Lambert and moved from Ceredo, WV to Portsmouth. Big Sandy News, Friday, June 6, 1919

 

LEEDY, McKinley

Pikeville, KY--McKinley Leedy, who was injured by falling slate in Big Hollow Mine, Jun 13, died the same day at the station here where he was waiting to be removed to a hospital. He was in his 21st year and leaves a wife and baby. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Leedy, who survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 28, 1919

 

LOWE, Lundy

Lundy Lowe, 17 years of age, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ireland Lowe, of Mossy Bottom, Pike County, passed away on Tuesday evening at the King’s Daughters’ hospital. He was taken ill last Friday night, suffering from obstruction of the bowel, peritonitis developed and he was brought to Ashland and placed in the hospital on Monday night, where an operation was performed on Tuesday morning. He did not rally, and just at dusk his spirit took its flight. His father and one brother were with him when the end came and Wednesday morning they took his body home for burial the funeral will occur on
Thursday. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

 

PAYNE, Thomas C.

Thomas C. Payne, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Payne, who live near Kenova, met a horrible death while working in a projectile plant at Nitro last Friday. Mr. Payne, who had charge of a structural iron worker’s crew, was down in a pit directing operations when a rope on a hoisting crane broke, permitting a heavy block to strike him on the head. His skull was crushed and he lived only a few hours. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

 

PICKLESIMER, J. Milton

J. Milton Picklesimer passed away Thursday of this week at 10:30 a.m. He had been hopelessly ill of Brights Disease for some time and his death was not unexpected. He was about 42 years of age and was a son of Mr. and Mrs. George Picklesimer, of this place. He is survived by his parents, a brother, Sam and the wife, who was a daughter of Hiram Meade. During his illness the deceased was converted and declared himself to be prepared for death. He had many friends who mourn his passing away. The funeral will take place Friday afternoon at 2 at the residence. Rev. H. B. Hewlett will conduct the service. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 20, 1919

 

PRICE, Byrl

A young man named Byrl Price of Whitehouse, KY, was killed Tuesday evening by a freight train on the Norfolk & Western railroad at Coleman station, on the Twelve Pole line. The body was brought to Louisa Wednesday and prepared for burial at Snyder’s undertaking establishment, then shipped to Whitehouse. The young man was 20 years old, a son of Burke Price. His mother was a sister of Frank Blevins, for many years a conductor on the C & O railroad. Price and 2 other young men were riding a freight train which stopped at Coleman siding. They got off and were standing between the tracks when a passenger train went by. It is sais Price staggered and fell between the moving cars and his body was cut entirely in two at the waist. Big Sandy news, Friday, Jun 20, 1919

 

TYREE, Millard

1872-1919

Millard Tyree, Cincinnati attorney, widely known in Southern Ohio and in Kentucky, and a member of the law firm of Tyree, Jones & LeBlond, died suddenly of heart disease in his apartment in Cincinnati. Mr. Tyree became ill in his garage as he was preparing to start down town. Mr. Tyree was born in Letcher County, KY, Nov 4, 1872 and attended schools in Kentucky and received his L.L.B. at the University of Louisville in 1907. He was admitted to the Kentucky Bar the same year. In 1900 he came to Cincinnati and was admitted to practice in Ohio. On Christmas eve, 1903, Attorney Tyree married Miss Jesse M. Partlon, newspaper writer. No children survive. Attorney Tyree was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Business Men’s Club, Cincinnati Country Club, Cincinnati Gold Club and the Peelee Island Fishing Club. He also was a member of the Cincinnati Bar Association and the Ohio State Bar Association. He was a thrifty second degree Scottish Rite Mason, and a member of Syrian Temple, Mystic Shrine and Yeatman Lodge, F. and A. M> and Delta Chapter. Mr. Tyree was the son of Greenberry Houston Tyree, civil engineer of Letcher Co., KY, who surveyed the first trial over Black Mountain. Educational facilities were lacking in the mountainous district and the Tyree family established a home in Huntington, WV where he was educated. Studying law in New York, he felt a yearning for the boyhood state and returned to Louisville, KY where he was graduated. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

 

VANHORN, Maude

Miss Maude Vanhorn, daughter of Ben Vanhorn, of Cadmus, this county, died at home a few days ago. She was stricken with influenza at Huntington last week and after an illness of 3 days returned to her father’s home, where she died 3 days later. The funeral was conducted Sunday by Rev. H. B. Hewlett and a number of returned soldiers gathered to pay a tribute to her and the cause in which she had enlisted. She had just finished the course necessary to become a Red Cross nurse and would have started for France within a few days to serve in that capacity. Miss Vanhorn was a fine young woman, age 28, and her death is deeply mourned by all who knew her. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 13, 1919

 

WELCH Mrs. Elijah

Whitehouse, KY—Mrs. Elijah Welch died Sunday night and was buries here Monday. Mrs. Welch was a good woman and well liked by all. She leaves a husband and 6 children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jun 6, 1919

 

JULY 1919

 

ARMS, John

Paintsville, KY--John Arms, son of Dan Arms, of this city, died a few days ago in Germany where he was with the U. S. troops leaving his insurance, amounting to $10,000 to his father. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 11, 1919

 

ASCHE, Mrs. Thomas

The death of Mrs. Thomas Asche occurred last Saturday afternoon at her home on Lick Creek. She was brought to the hospital in Louisa earlier in the week, but was hopelessly ill and returned home where her death occurred soon after reaching there. She was a daughter of the late Mordecai Wilson and was a good woman. The husband and 6 children survive. The funeral was conducted by Rev. J. T. Pope, pastor of the Baptist Church at Louisa. Mrs. Asche had been a true member of that church since early womanhood. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

AUXIER, Emma (Spradlin)

1843-1919

Emma Spradlin Auxier, wife of Polk Auxier, was born Nov 26, 1843, near Prestonsburg, Floyd County. She was a daughter of Jackson Spradlin and on her mother’s side related to the Fitzpatricks of Floyd County. She and Polk Auxier were married Jan 7, 1868, since which time she has always resided in the Blockhouse bottom. She had been an invalid for 8 years, during which time she lived a life of constant prayer and devotion. She was a member of the church of God, of which every person who knows that Jesus saves them, is a member. She had suffered for many years, but was tenderly cared for by her daughters, son and husband. Rev. Sam Robinson of Cape Girardeau, MO, preached a tender and touching sermon. Her life had been one of self denial and she and uncle Polk belonged to a type of Big Sandian fast passing away. They had little of the world’s goods when they were married, but by hard labor and rigid economy they bought a large tract of the Blockhouse bottom—enough to provide a home for all their children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

BARBOUR

While Mr. and Mrs. Claude Barbour of West Huntington were returning home Sunday night from a drive, the buggy in which they were riding was stuck by an auto near the Vinson home at Westmoreland and completely demolished. Mrs. Barbour was instantly killed and her husband seriously injured. The accident is said to have been caused by R. W. Flannagan of Huntington, who it is charged, was racing up the Piedmont road in an auto. Mrs. Barbour was a daughter of Robert Ward of Wayne county. Flannagan was arrested and place in jail at Wayne. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

BERRY, James Buchanan

James Buchanan Berry died last Monday, the 14th, at his home on Tabor’s Creek, Wayne County, WV, a few miles from Louisa. The burial took place there on Tuesday, the services being conducted by Rev. H. B. Hewlett. Mr. Berry had been sick for about a year and was paralyzed several months ago. He was born in Lawrence County on Dec 25, 1857, and was therefore in his 62nd year. He became a Christian about 32 years ago and soon after joined the M.E. Church South, living a consistent Christian life until the end. He is survived by the wife and 2 sons and a daughter. Mr. Berry lived in Louisa before buying the farm in Wayne County and was keeper of the toll house on the Louisa & Fort Gay bridge. He was a most excellent citizen. M. G. Berry of Louisa is a brother of the deceased. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

On Monday evening Jul 14, the pale horse and its rider visited this community and claimed for its victim James Buchanan Berry. Bro. Berry was born Dec 25, 1857. He was 61 years 6 months and 19 days old. He was loved by all who knew him, a good kind hearted Christian man. He had been a member of the Methodist Church South for the past 32 years and lived up to his faith each and every day. He leaves to mourn his death a wife and 3 children, Hubert, Louren, and Mrs. J. T. Spencer, and a shot of relatives and friends. He was laid to rest in the graveyard overlooking his home. Rev. Hewlett preached a very impressive funeral sermon. Big Sandy News, Jul 25, 1919

 

BRADLEY, Mrs. Fred

Mrs. Fred Bradley died last Monday at her home 2 miles from Louisa after an illness of many months. Tuberculosis was the cause. She is survived by the husband and 4 children, Roxy, George, Marie and Veryl. The eldest daughter is the wife of L. E. Wallace. The funeral was conducted by Rev. H. B. Hewlett of the M. E. Church South. Mrs. Bradley had been a faithful member of that church for 30 years. She was a daughter of Harvey Burchett and was a woman who commanded the respect of all who knew her. She was 46 years old and was married in 1891 to Mr. Bradley. The youngest child is about 12 years old. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

BRANHAM, Mrs. Elmer

Mrs. Elmer Branham died suddenly Wednesday morning at her home at Webb, WV. Burial took place Thursday. Her maiden name was Sammons and her first marriage was to Capt. William Bartram, who died a few years ago. She is survived by her husband and 2 children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 4, 1919

 

CENTERS, Mrs. J. L.

Prestonsburg, KY—Mrs. J. L. Centers passed away after 2 years illness. She had been in several hospitals, but her case was pronounced hopeless and she returned to her home. She was born at Campton, KY in 1887, and was the daughter of William Hollon. Her parents, husband and 4 children survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 11, 1919

 

CHATFIELD, L. G.

Mr. L.G. Chatfield died Tuesday in Catlettsburg. He was well known in the Sandy valley, having been for many years a traveling salesman in this section. He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. E. C. Conley of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 1919

 

CYRUS, Elizabeth

West Virginia—Mrs. Elizabeth Cyrus, widow of Joshua Cyrus, who died several years ago, passed away at the home of her son, F. M. Cyrus, on Sharps Branch last Saturday. She was 89 years old. She had been a member of the Baptist Church for 32 years. The deceased was the mother of F. M. Cyrus and Oliver Cyrus and the grandmother of Mrs. H. H. Rutherford. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

FREESE, Katherine (McGuire)

It was a great shock to scores of people in this vicinity when a telegram was received Wednesday evening by Capt. F. F. Freese telling of the death of Mrs. Katherine McGuire Freese, which occurred at Los Angeles, CA, Tuesday night of this week. She had been ill only 2 weeks. Uraemic poisoning caused her death. The burial took place Thursday at Los Angeles. Mrs. Freese had been with Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Thomas for 2 years and had planned to return to Louisa and Cincinnati for a visit very soon. Her age was about 78 years, but she was exceedingly well preserved and had enjoyed good health up to a short time before her death. She was the widow of Capt. Milton Freese, who for many years was one of the leading citizens and business men of Louisa. In addition to other interests he was extensively engaged in the steamboat business on Big Sandy River in the days when that was an important line of business. Three daughters survive her, Mrs. J. C. Thomas, Mrs. Robert Magee of Cincinnati, and Mrs. Charlotte Van Ausdale of New York. Also, Capt. F. F. Freese of Louisa, Mrs. Mary Wroten of San Antonio, TX and Mrs. W. T. Headley of Philadelphia, son and daughters of Capt. Freese by his first marriage. A sister and brother, Mrs. e. Arnett and Mr. James McGuire, are the only surviving members of the Nicholas McGuire family. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 4, 1919

 

GEARHART, Robert

Prestonsburg, KY—Robert Gearhart, of Fed, KY, died last Saturday, Jun 21, of tuberculosis. He was 73 years of age and was a native of Floyd County. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Jane Gearhart and by 4 sons and 3 daughters as follows; Dial Gearhart, Naples, IL, Arrena Gearhart, A. J. Gearhart, Orkney, KY, G. W. Gearhart, Mrs. Eli Stumbo, McDowell, KY D. Gearhart, Orkney, KY. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 4, 1919

 

HALL, Mrs. Ella

Mrs. Ella Hall died at the mouth of Burchett’s Branch on Johns Creek last Saturday a week ago. She is survived by her husband, Willie Hall, 6 small children. She was taken sick on Tuesday and died the following Saturday. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 1919

 

HILL, Hiram

The body of Hiram Hill, colored, 23, a veteran of the American expeditionary forces, was found by employees of the Norton Iron Works on the river bank in Ashland. Lying beside the body was a piece of 1 ½ inch pipe with which the unfortunate soldier’s head had been beaten into a pulp. Robbery was the apparent motive as Hill’s pockets were turned inside out. On the body were found papers which established his identity as a member of Company B, 542 Engineers residence Stone Branch, WV. His serial number is revealed by his identification tag was 1044818.He had a ticket stamped Jul 14, from Camp Meade, MD to Stone Branch, WV. Big Sandy news, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

JOHNSON, Mrs. Frank A.

Mrs. Frank A. Johnson died at Lexington a few days ago, after a brief illness. The sad news was brought to Louisa relatives by a telegram from the deeply bereaved husband, who is a native of Louisa. A baby daughter, age 6 weeks, is left with the father. Mr. Johnson is assistant superintendent of the Kentucky School of Reform near Lexington. About a year ago he was married to Miss James, a handsome and worthy young woman of western Kentucky. In his deep bereavement he has the sympathy of the many people in Lawrence County who know him. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

The following is from the Harrodsburg Herald: There was genuine grief felt by everyone who knew her when the news reached here of the death of Mrs. Frank Johnson at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Lexington last Friday. She was formerly Miss Bee James, of this county, daughter of Mr. F. I. James, her mother having died several years ago. She was 35 years of age and a loyal and faithful member of the Christian Church. About a year ago she was united in marriage to Mr. Johnson, who with a 5 weeks old infant survives her. For a number of years she was a popular teacher in the county schools and no one stood higher in the estimation of all, as she was a loveable and splendid woman. The remains were brought to the home of her father at Salvisa where funeral services were held Sunday afternoon conducted by Rev. E. B. Bourland, of the Harrodsburg Christian Church. The remains were laid to rest in Providence Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 1919

 

LYONS, H. D.

Ulysses, KY—H. D. Lyons, of this place, who had been ill of dropsy for several months, died Jun 18th. He was 52 years old and leaves a wife and several grown sons and daughter and a daughter who are nearly grown. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 4, 1919

 

MARTIN, John

Rev. John Martin, the oldest minister in the Western Virginia Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, died at his home in Guyandotte, a suburb of Huntington, Wednesday morning, Jun 25 at 4:30. He had been ill for 6 months, and his death is attributed to infirmities of his advanced age. He was 79 years of age. Up until his last illness he was serving as a supply pastor at the Cottage Grove Church. He was one of the headliners of the Methodist Conference, and was presiding elder for 50 years. Rev. Martin was a native of Kentucky and was born in Carter County. He spent most of his boyhood days in Carter and Boyd Counties. He received his education in Kentucky. Rev. Martin’s influence was felt afar. Not only was he able in securing the assistance of many noted ministers, but it was largely through him that Mrs. S. P. Fetter of Ashland, widow of the lat Kentucky millionaire, John C. C. Mayo, gave 2 million dollars for the Mayo College, the church institution at Paintsville. Rev. Martin was the father of 9 children, 8 of whom survive, and are H. F. Martin, British Columbia, F. A. Martin, Chicago, F. S. Martin, Logan, WV, W. W. Martin, Philadelphia, R. W. Martin, Parkersburg, E. G. Martin and Mrs. Thomas Dugan at the family home in Guyandotte. The funeral services were held at his residence at Guyandotte at 2 Saturday and the remains were taken for burial to the Ashland Cemetery. The funeral services were in charge of Rev. C.A. Slaughter of Johnson Memorial Church at Huntington and Rev. J. M. Carter of Point Pleasant. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 4, 1919

 

McCLINTOCK, Charles

Catlettsburg, KY—Charles McClintock died at the C & O hospital in Huntington Friday night. He had been in failing health for over a year but had never stopped for treatment until the past week when he agreed to got to the hospital for treatment of some throat affection. But his system was in such a weakened condition it was impossible for the doctors to help him and he passed away Jul 11. He leaves a wife who was formerly Miss Catharine Scott, and 3 beautiful children to mourn his death. For many years Mr. McClintock had been in the employ of the C & O and at the time of his death was an operator at the tower, located at Lockwood, KY. The pall bearers were selected from the telegrapher friends and C & O employees. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

MCGUIRE, George

George McGuire died at his home at Water Gap of consumption. He was well and favorably known in Floyd County where he lived almost all of his 3 score and 10 years. His widow, 4 daughters and one son survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 1919

 

RICE, Robert French

Rev. Robert French Rice has paid the debt of dying at the age of 79 years. He was a soldier of the war of 1861 and a solder for Jesus since 1858. He was licensed to preach in the fall of 1869 and from that time to the date of his death he was in the work of the Master under the jurisdiction of the M. E. Church South. He has preached in Boyd, Carter, Lawrence, Martin, Johnson, Floyd and Pike Counties, preached more funerals, buried more of our dead friends than any minister in the Sandy valley. The writer has known Bro. French Rice since our first recollection, heard him preach when I was 8 years old which was 50 years ago. He was around my father’s dying bed on the 6th night of March 1870. Father requested him to lead his children to God which he promised he would do, and 20 years from that time 4 of father’s children were converted under his ministry and if we continue in the faith a few more days or yeas at most we will meet uncle French on love’s eternal shore. He was known by an army of people and to know him was to love him. He was married to Elizabeth Hulette, oldest daughter of Jephthah Hulette, deceased, in the spring of 1857 or 8, and to this union were born 10 children—8 boys and 2 girls, of which 8 are living—7 boys and one girl. He often spoke of Tom and Lethie, his 2 children that had crossed the last river in full triumph of faith.

 

Lord have mercy on aunt Lizzie and her children. You will miss him from your home as a husband and father, the church will miss him as an able minister, the county will miss him as an honest, good citizen, the neighbors will miss him as a good kind neighbor. But the time of his demise had come, he had fought a good fight, he finished his course, he kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for him a crown of righteousness which the Lord the righteous judge will give him at that day and not him only but thank God to all that love his appearing. Adam Harman. Big Sandy news, Friday, Jul 11, 1919

 

RILEY, William

William Riley was born in Lewis County, KY in Sep 1852, and departed this life May 28, 1919. He had been married twice. Seven children born of his first marriage and 3 to his last marriage His second wife was Susan Harman, sister of Adam and V. D. Harman. Mr. Riley bought the William Shortridge farm on Catts Fork and moved there in 1901 and since then up to the date of his death he was a citizen of Lawrence County. He was an industrious hard working man, a good citizen, a good neighbor, and friend to the common people. His sickness was of long duration and during that time he was converted to God and enjoyed the great blessing up to and in the hour of death. He was kindly nursed by J. W. Elkins, Nancy Harman and others His children came to his bedside and with his dear wife did all for him they could do. His son in Ohio and his son and daughter in West Virginia came to his beside. He had one son in the U. S. Army in Siberia who could not come to see him. The funeral was preached at his home by Rev. H.C. Conley, assisted by R. H. Cassady and James Ellis, after which the I.O.O.F. took charge of the body and carried it to the J. W. Elkins cemetery overlooking his home there deposited it to sleep until the trump of God sound the retreat of worlds. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 4, 1919

 

SEE, Dave

The death of Dave See occurred at his home at Seattle, WA. He had been ill with cancer of the stomach for some time. He was operated on a few weeks ago and his case pronounced hopeless. He died soon afterwards. Mr. See was a native of this place and went to Washington several years ago. He ha many relatives and friends living in or near Louisa. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 1919

 

SEE, Felix M.

Felix M. See died at his home on Lick Creek Monday, after an illness of several months from Brights disease. The burial took place on Wednesday near the home. Rev. H.b. Hewlett conducted the services, assisted by Rev. William Burgess. Mr. See was 65 years old. He is survived by the wife and 13 children, and a number of grandchildren. Three daughters have died within a year or tow. He was a faithful member of the Baptist Church nearly all his mature life. Lawrence County did not have a better citizen. He was honest, industrious, of gentle disposition and had no enemies. His death is mourned by all who were acquainted with him. For several years he was a deputy sheriff and performed his duties faithful. He had a large family, most of whom are grown, and all are worthy young people, respected by everybody. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 1919

 

SPRADLIN, Mrs. Sarah

Mrs. Sarah Spradlin, widow of John Spradlin, died last Saturday afternoon at Cliff, KY. She was about 82 years of age, and is survived by 3 sons and 3 daughters, Sam Spradlin, Marr Spradlin, John Spradlin, Mrs. Levi Stricklin, Mrs. Harry Privett and Mrs. Sam Burgess, at whose home she died. She had been sick for a long time both in body and mind. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 19194

 

TAYLOR, Julia Alice

Julia Alice Taylor, 6 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. V.S. Taylor of Portsmouth, died Sunday in a Huntington hospital of diphtheria. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 1919

 

THOMPSON, Rev. J. S.

Ledocio and Adams, KY—News reached here Sunday afternoon of the death of Rev. J. S. Thompson, who died at the home of his son, Tom of Cherokee. Uncle Jack, as he was usually called, was 87 years old. He leaves several grown up boys and girls to mourn the loss of a dear father, one who died in the full faith of living again in that house not made with hands. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 11, 1919

 

VANHOOSE, Mrs. Mant

Mrs. Mant Vanhoose died in Catlettsburg Monday night after a short illness of uraemic poisoning, and a few hours later her 8 month old grandchild, son of Mrs. Stella Dale, passed away in the same house. The child was buried in Catlettsburg. The body of Mrs. Vanhoose was taken to her old home at Toms Creek, near Paintsville for interment. Her husband is critically ill with typhoid fever. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 1919

 

WATSON

Jattie, KY--The pale horse and its rider visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. A.M. Watson, Jun 19th and took from them their darling baby aged 4 months. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 4, 1919

 

WELLMAN, Mrs. John D.

Mrs. John D. Wellman of Huntington died last week. She was 84 years old and had resided in Huntington for 37 years, having been born in Wayne County. Prior to her marriage Mrs. Wellman was Miss Martha Adkins of Wayne County. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

WHEELER, Henry Jackson

Henry J. Wheeler, of Paintsville, passed away on Friday evening at 7 at the Martin hospital in Ironton, where he had been taken on Thursday in a critical condition, the result of an accident. Mr. Wheeler was removing his family and household goods from Paintsville to Estill and personally superintending the moving of the piano in a wagon, when the horses took fright and overturned the wagon, crushing Mr. Wheeler under the weight of the piano. He was taken as quickly as possible to Ironton and on Thursday underwent an operation but his injury was of such a nature that he died at the time stated. Mr. Wheeler was 46 years of age. He was born in Johnson County. For some years he has been engaged as superintendent of mines in the Big Sandy region. He was a man of fine character, and very highly esteemed. Twelve years ago he united with the M. E. Church. He is survived by his wife who was Miss Levisa Fannin. Two sons and 3 daughters are left, Mrs. Charles Powers of Pollard, Herbert who is married and lives in Paintsville, Hazel, Herman and Nancy Vivian, at home. His mother, Mrs. Rachel Wheeler and his sister Miss Ellen Wheeler, reside in Ashland. His brothers are W. G. Wheeler of Columbus OH and Frank Wheeler of Pollard. The body was taken to Ashland to the home of his mother and accompanied by the family was taken to Paintsville where the funeral services were conducted and interment made. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 25, 1919

 

WILLARD, Roy

Bluefield, WV—Roy Willard, 20 years old, was murdered, police say, by his mother in law, Mrs. W. J. Taylor, half an hour after his wedding. Mrs. Taylor is in jail and refuses to talk of the crime. The bride’s father, sister and a number of friends, who attended the ceremony, witnessed the tragedy, which took place at the residence of the Rev. J.B. Simpson, the officiating minister. According to the police, the marriage certificate was sent to the bride’s mother, who objected to the match, a few minutes after the ceremony. Armed with a revolver, Mrs. Taylor is said to have appeared on the scene and opened fire. One of the 6 shots pierced Willard’s heart. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 18, 1919

 

WORKMAN,

Rocky Valley—The infant of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Workman died Jun 20th and was buried at Workman Graveyard Tuesday afternoon. Big Sandy News, Friday, Jul 4, 1919

 

AUGUST 1919

 

AUSTIN

Ulysses, KY—An infant child of Henry Austin and wife died and was brought here to Mr. Austin’s former home and buried in the family burying ground Monday. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 22, 1919

 

AUSTIN, Earl

Shannon Branch--Died on the 7th, Earl Austin, age 5 years, little son of John Austin, of Van Lear. He was brought here to his grandfathers, Buddie Vanhoose, Thursday evening, and buried at the uncle Lige Judd graveyard Friday. Rev. G. V. Pack had charge of the burial service. Mr. and Mrs. Lyss Hickman and daughter accompanied Mr. and Mrs. Austin down here. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 15, 1919

 

BORDERS, Mrs. Wallace

The funeral and burial of Mrs. Wallace Borders, whose death occurred at Jenkins at the home of her son, Charles, took place at Georges Creek and was attended by many relatives and friends of the family. She had been ill for a long time and was cared for by her children. She was a kind neighbor, a devoted wife and mother and for many years had been a faithful Christian. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 22, 1919

 

Ulysses, KY—Mrs. Lucretia Borders, wife of Wallace Borders, who recently moved from this place to Jenkins died Aug 15. She had been in poor health for several years. Her remains were brought here and buried in the family burying ground last Sunday. Her funeral was preached by Rev. Burns Conley of Paintsville and Rev. G. H. Young of this place. She leaves her husband, 4 daughters and 2 sons, H. H. Borders of Catlettsburg and C. H. Borders of Jenkins and 3 brothers and 3 sisters to mourn the loss of this good woman. She was a member of the Freewill Baptist church and had lived a devoted Christian for 40 years. “Aunt Lou” as she was called was 66 years old. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 22, 1919

 

BRANHAM, Lucy Frances

Lucy Frances, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ned Branham, passed away last Friday evening after an illness of several weeks. She was about a year old. The body was taken tot Fallsburg, the former home of Mrs. Branham for burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 22, 1919

 

BRYANT, Jim

Blaine—Last Saturday morning the death angel visited the home of Daniel Bryant and took from them their oldest son, Jim. He had been sick for about 2 months. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 22, 1919

 

BUTLER, John F.

John F. Butler, Circuit Judge of the Pike and Letcher district, died at his home here Thursday evening of last week. He had been suffering from heart disease for several months and his death was not a surprise. His term as Judge would have expired in 1922. Before he took the bench he served as prosecuting attorney, defeating Judge J. M. Roberson, who contested the election, and the elections was declared void. Judge Butler was later elected for the term which he was serving at the time of his death. He is survived by his widow, his mother, who lives at Prestonsburg, and 2 sisters, Mrs. Lou Shepperd, Prestonsburg and Mrs. W. H. May, Jenkins. The body was taken to Prestonsburg Friday, where the funeral was conducted at the Baptist church Saturday afternoon by the Rev. C. C. Daves, Pikeville. Big Sandy news, Friday, Aug 8, 1919

 

CALHOUN, Jane

Prestonsburg, KY—Mrs. Jane Calhoun of Water Gap, died at the home of her son, Rev. Hiram Calhoun. She was 90 years old last February. She was well and active and ate supper about an hour before her death. She was the widow of Rev. Thomas Calhoun. Her funeral was preached by Rev. Isaac Stratton, of Banner. Three sons and 4 daughters survive. They are Mrs. Mary Owens of Goodloe, Rev. Hiram Calhoun, Mrs. Lou Ann Marshall, John and Sam Calhoun of Water Gap, Mrs. Sol Branham of Cliff and Mrs. Dulcina Miller of Middle Creek. More than a hundred grandchildren survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 1, 1919

 

COOPER, Lawrence

John Hannibal Cooper, formerly of Paintsville, but now of Chillicothe, OH, passed through Louisa Wednesday morning with the body of his little boy who was killed by an automobile on Tuesday. The little fellow was 6 years old. He and his sister were crossing a street when 2 machines from opposite directions crowded them into such close quarters that the little boy was knocked down and killed. His little sister escaped the same fate by a very close margin. The body was buried at Paintsville, Mr. Cooper lived in Louisa a few years ago and had charge of the Singer Sewing Machine Company business. He is almost prostrated over the sad accident and his many friends deeply sympathize with him. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 8, 1919

 

DILLON, Robert Lee

Robert Lee Dillon, formerly of Wayne Co., WV died at his home in Holden, MO. His wife and 8 children survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 8,1919

 

FITZPATRICK, Anna

Prestonsburg, KY—Miss Anna Fitzpatrick, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Fitzpatrick died in Albuquerque, NM Sunday Jul 27 of tuberculosis. Miss Anna was taken sick last January of throat trouble and sought relief first at a local hospital and by horseback riding, but when it was noticed that she was growing worse, she, accompanied by her mother and brother Tom, left for New Mexico, thinking a change of climate might bring the desired results. She stood the long trip apparently well. There was a collapse of the left lung resulting in her death last Sunday. Owing to the fact that the family expects to move to Albuquerque soon, she was buried there last Tuesday afternoon. Miss Anna was about 27 years of age, was one of our most popular girls; she was industrious, highly esteemed and a loyal member of the Baptist Church. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 1, 1919

 

FRANCE, Morgan

Smokey Valley—On Thursday, Aug 14, at 2:30 p.m. the death angel visited our community and took from his sufferings Rev. Morgan France, age 73 years. He had been a member of the Freewill Baptist Church for 34 years and a minister for 15 years. His death brought sorrow to a host of relatives and friends. The funeral was preached Friday afternoon by Revs. M. A. and W. A. Hay . The body was laid to rest in the graveyard overlooking the home of M. A. Hay. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 22, 1919

 

GEARHART, Frances

Prestonsburg, KY—Mrs. Frances Gearhart of West Prestonsburg, died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Sol Bingham last Friday night. She was thrown from a horse about 15 years ago and had been a cripple ever since. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 1, 1919

 

HOWARD, Dr. W. M.

Prestonsburg, KY—Dr. W. M. Howard of Goodloe, KY, died last Friday at his home. He was about 67 years of age. He is survived by his second wife and several children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 8, 1919

 

HUFFMAN, J. R.

J. R. Huffman of Island Creek, died at his home after an illness lasting but a few days. He was affected with a complication of diseases and was in a serious condition form the first attack. Mr. Huffman was a brother to R. T. Huffman, T. N. Huffman and W. J. Huffman. He is survived by a wife, and one son, Claude. The burial will take place on Island Creek, Saturday. Big Sandy news, Friday, Aug 15, 1919

 

JOBE, Smith

Smith Jobe, of Twin Branch, died Thursday morning at his home and will be buried Friday. He was about 50 years old. For 8 years he had been in ill health. He leaves a wife and several children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 29, 1919

 

LAYNE, James T.

James T. Layne, 33, of the Sowards Insurance Agency died suddenly from heart failure at his home here Thursday of last week. Mr. Layne had been suffering from stomach trouble for some days previous to his death, but not serious and death was wholly unexpected. Mr. Layne was a well known young man and had spent most of his life in the occupation of accountancy. He had been in the service of the Sowards Insurance Agency in this capacity for a considerable while; previous to that he had been connected with coal companies on Beaver Creek. He was an upright young man and a model of honesty and industry, being well known throughout the entire Sandy Valley. He comes from one of the best families in Prestonsburg, being the son of the aged John M. Layne, and brother of Will H. Layne, well known attorney of that city. He leaves a wife and 7 small children besides a host of relatives and friends. Burial took place at Prestonsburg. Big Sandy news, Friday, Aug 15, 1919

 

O’DANIEL, Gussie

Miss Gussie O’Daniel died at the home of her father, D. A. O’Daniel at Hulette, this county, Monday night. Tuberculosis was the cause. She had been in ill health for 2 or 3 years. Her age was 25. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 29, 1919

 

PACK, Gracie

Ulysses, KY—Mrs. Gracie Pack, wife of Charlie Pack of Ashland, died and was brought to her childhood home and buried in the family burying ground. She was 27 years old at the time of her death. She leave her husband, 4 children, one sister and many relatives and friends. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 1, 1919

 

PORTER, Susan

Prestonsburg, KY—Mrs. Susan Porter, widow of the late S. W. Porter, died Monday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Anna Mayo. She had been in poor health for the past 2 years. She is survived by 2 sons and 3 daughters. Big Sandy news, Friday, Aug 1, 1919

 

PRICE, Marion Lee

Marion Lee Price, of Relief, Morgan County, was killed at a Norfolk and Western grade crossing at Circleville, OH, Tuesday of this week. He was riding a freight train and jumped off in front of a passenger train. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 15, 1919

 

RUNYON, Ben

Ben M. Runyon died at his home at Elkhorn City last Thursday. His widow, 2 sisters and 2 brothers survived. They are Mrs. Bill May and Mrs. Tom May of John, Bob Runyon of Virginia and Claud Runyon of Johns Creek. Burial took place at Johns Creek. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 8, 1919

 

SONGER, Mary Abigail (Sullivan)

1861-1919

The Ashland Independent gives the following full and correct account of the life and death of Mrs. Songer:

Mrs. Thomas C. Songer, wife of Thomas C. Songer, general chairman of engineers of the C & O railroad, passed away at her home, 28th and Winchester at 5:15 p.m. Monday, Aug 4. In her death eastern Kentucky loses a woman well known, universally admired and loved. She was Mary Abigail Sullivan, daughter of Rev. and Mrs. Christian M. Sullivan, and was born in Charleston, WV May 26, 1861. When a very young child her parents took her to Louisa, KY, where she spent her girlhood and grew to be the gracious, beautiful young woman so happily remembered by all who knew her in early years. Her father, who died when she was but 3 years of age, was a prominent minister of the M. E. church South, whose field of work covered parts of Kentucky and extended thru West Virginia, as far at the White Sulphur Springs. He was a man of deep learning and far reaching influence. His wife, a charming and brilliant woman long survived him, passing away at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Songer in this city Mar 30, 1909, having spent the last 16 years of her life with this beloved son and daughter.

 

The marriage of Thomas C. Songer and Mary Sullivan was consummated in Louisa, Jan 31, 1883. The greater part of their married life has been spent in Ashland, where their children have grown to manhood and woman hood, have received education and are all happily married and highly esteemed citizens. For several years Mrs. Songer has been a semi-invalid, and throughout this trying portion of her life her unfailing patience, gentleness, gratitude for every comfort that could be provided her, and Christian fortitude under her physical trials, have been as a benediction to her family and friends, and will remain a monument of ineffaceable glory in the harts of those who reverence her memory. Her husband and children have been untiring in their devoted care of her, and the ready smile which rewarded their every effort revealed the lovely nature which steadfastly refused to be discouraged. Her association in her church life was always of the sweetest. She had been a life long member of the M. E. church South and until ill health prevented active service, was in the lead with every undertaking for the advancement of God’s kingdom.

 

Her husband survives her and 3 sons, Jesse and Fred Songer, who reside in Ashland and Clifford Songer of New York, who has been in naval service for the past 10 years and is now chief machinist aboard U. S. S. Prometheus. The only daughter is Mrs. L. E. Payne of Ashland. There are 6 grandchildren. One sister survives, Mrs. Kate P. Shannon, of Louisa, and one brother, W. N. Sullivan of Frankfort. Rev. Dr. F. F. Shannon, a prominent divine of Brooklyn, now in charge of Reform church on the Heights, is a nephew of Mrs. Songer and frequently visited her. On Wednesday at 1 p.m. the funeral service was conducted at the home. Rev. W. M. Wakefield having charge, assisted by W. L. Reid and Rev. Mr. Jenkins. The body will be taken to Louisa Wednesday evening by train and placed in the home of Mrs. Songer’s cousin, Mrs. Hannah M. Lackey, where the funeral service will be held on Thursday morning, after the arrival of the Big Sandy train from Ashland and interment will there be made, where the father, mother and 2 children of Mrs. Songer are resting. The people of Louisa have graciously extended to Ashland friends of the Songer family the hospitality of their home for all who attend the funeral from this city. Big Sandy news, Friday, Aug 8, 1919

 

VANHOOSE, William Jefferson

1843-1919

Jeff Vanhoose, respected citizen, passed away here (Catlettsburg), Thursday night after a brief illness and the funeral was conducted at the home of his daughter Mrs. Anderson, Sunday afternoon. Mr. Vanhoose was a splendid citizen and was liked by all who knew him. William Jefferson Vanhoose was born in Floyd County, KY Jan 13, 1843. He was a son of Levi and Elizabeth Vanhoose. He leaves 7 children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 29, 1919

 

VAUGHAN, Angie

Prestonsburg, KY—Mrs. Angie Vaughan, wife of Sam Vaughan, and daughter of James Patton of Cliff, died Jul 29. She is survived by her husband and 4 children, one brother and 4 sisters. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 1, 1919

 

WELLS

Paintsville, KY—The infant twin son of Mr. and Mrs. German Wells died last Saturday with measles. Sunday the remains were taken to Offutt for burial in the old family cemetery. Rev. H. G. Sowards accompanied the relatives and had charge of the funeral services. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 1, 1919

 

WHEELER, Henry

Henry Wheeler, 65, president of the Wheeler Grocery Company, of Paintsville, died Monday in a Louisville hospital, following an illness of several weeks. He was operated on some time ago and was able to be up. His wife and 3 grown sons survive. His body was taken to his old home in Magoffin County for interment. Big Sandy News, Friday, Aug 15, 1919

 

SEPTEMBER 1919

 

ADAMS, Judge James P.

The death of Judge James P. Adams occurred at Beattyville a few days ago. He had been in ill health quite a while from softening of the brain. He was a native of Salyersvillle and was circuit Judge of the district composed of the counties of Lee, Estill and Breathitt. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 12, 1919

 

BARTLEY, John

About 8:30 o’clock Tuesday evening a shot from his own hand ended the life of John Bartley, near Madge, this county. His children were in bed asleep and he awakened the oldest boy and bid him get up, as he wanted to talk to him. He told the little fellow what he was going to do and where he wanted to be buried and a number of things, and stepped to the door and shot himself. Staggering to the bed he fell backward and died a few minutes later. His shirt caught fire from the powder and was almost burned from the body. When a neighbor boy got to him he had to pour water on the body to keep the bed from catching fire. Domestic troubles are said to have been the cause. He was living alone with 4 small children. Mr. Bartley came here from Pike County a few years ago with his father, William Bartley, who died several months ago. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 19, 1919

 

BORDERS, Bennie

Bennie Borders, age 20, son of Leander Borders, died at the home of his parents, at Georges Creek, this county, Wednesday night. We have not learned the particulars. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 19, 1919

 

BOWEN, Evlin

Mrs. Evlin Bowen of Ceredo died in the Huntington hospital last Wednesday of typhoid fever. Her body was brought to Wayne Friday and funeral services held in the Baptist Church of which she was a member. The services were conducted by Rev. J. S. Puckett and A. W. Damron, after which interment was made in the Wayne Cemetery. Mrs. Bowen was 32 years of age and is survived by her husband and 6 small children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 12, 1919

 

CHAPMAN, James E.

James E. Chapman died last Saturday at his home in Fort Gay, WV. He had been suffering for quite a long time with mastoiditis and had delayed too long having an operation performed. He was a good citizen and lived in Fort Gay for several years. He had conducted a meat market in Louisa 2 or 3 years. His age was about 60 years. Funeral service was held last Sunday at 1 o’clock in the M. E. Church in Fort Gay, burial following near that place. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 12, 1919

 

COOLEY, Julia

Mrs. Julia Cooley, of Water Gap, wife of James M. Cooley and mother of superintendent of school Hary N. Cooley, died Thursday. She was 72 years of age and had been ill of Brights disease for about 5 weeks. Mr. and Mrs. Cooley are among the oldest and best known citizens of Floyd County, and are widely related. They have been married for 49 years and 6 children were born to this union, but only 2 , Supt. H. N. Cooley of Prestonsburg and Warren Cooley of Dwale, with her long devoted husband, survive her. Mrs. Cooley had been a member of the Methodist church since she was 14 years old. Her funeral conducted by Rev. H. K. Moore took place from her late home. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 26, 1919

 

FRIEND, Laura May

Laura May Friend, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Friend of Weeksbury, died at her home Friday, Sep 12. She was taken ill suddenly and for awhile was unable to speak. When she recovered her power of speech she told her parents she had fallen and hurt her head. Her death is supposed to have resulted after 3 weeks from this injury, and is doubly sad in that her young parents buried her at Printer, KY beside the grave of a young sister who died less than a year ago. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 26, 1919

 

GEORGE, Fred

Fred George, of Hitchens, a young man 22 years of age, died Thursday of last week of injuries received at his work in the Borderland, WV coal mines. Mr. George has been released from military service just 2 months when overtaken by the accident. He served his country for 18 months in France. He was taken by train to Kenova but died before reaching the hospital. His body was taken to Hitchens for interment. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 19, 1919

 

HATFIELD, Alice

Mrs. Alice Hatfield of Wheelwright, wife of I. H. Hatfield and daughter of W. R. Hall, died at her home of paralysis of the heart. She was 38 years of age and had been in poor health for about 7 years. Mrs. Hatfield was the mother of 5 children, one son and 4 daughters; the eldest is 18 the youngest is 4. These and her husband survive her. She was buried at Melvin, mouth of Jacks Creek. Big Sandy news, Friday, Sep 26, 1919

 

LYKINS, Mrs. Claude

Claude Lykins, a resident of Madison Co. shot his wife to death near West Liberty, Morgan County. The couple had separated some time ago and Lykins, it is stated, had been trying since to get possession of his 2 year old boy. It is said he met his wife on the road, they quarreled. Lykins killed the woman with 3 shots. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 5, 1919

 

MCCOMBS, Mrs. M. E.

Pikeville, KY—Mrs. M. E. McCombs died Thursday afternoon after being confined to her bed for more than 5 months. She had a stroke of paralysis on Mar 25 and has never been able to be out since. She was 56 years old, and the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Maynard, deceased. When 24 years old she married Mr. M.E. McCombs and to this union 5 children were born, 2 sons and 3 daughters, 2 are dead and 3 living, Miss Virgie McCombs of this city, Mrs. Hartsock and W. E. of Montana. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 19, 1919

 

MEADOSW, Mrs. Joe

Mrs. Joe Meadows died at the Louisa hospital Sep 17, following a operation the previous day for appendicitis. She was before her marriage Miss Ruth Garrett, of Water Gap and had been married only a few months. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 26, 1919

 

SPARKS, Nathan

Mr. Nathan Sparks, who for the past 24 years has been a citizen of Pollard, died at 8 o’clock on Sunday evening, Aug 31, at the home of his son, Fernando Sparks. Nathan Sparks was born in Johnson County, KY, Jan 23, 1843. He was the father of 11 children, four of whom survive. His wife passed to the spirit world 4 years ago. Mr. Sparks had been a sufferer for years from chronic nephritis, growing gradually worse until death relieved the trial of the body. He was a member of the United Baptist Church, having membership at Ashland Heights. Two sons and 2 daughter survive: Fernando Sparks, with whom he had lived for some time, Henderson Sparks, Mrs. Alice Young and Mrs. Mandy Damors. The funeral was held at the home, Rev. W. C. Pierce, pastor of the Baptist Church at Pollard, conducting the service and interment was made in the Dixon Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 5, 1919

 

SPENCER, John

Drift, KY—The pale horse and its rider came into our midst Sunday morning and claimed as its victim John Spencer. He had been ill of typhoid fever, but everyone thought he was improving until shortly before the end came. He leaves an aged father and mother, several brothers and sisters and a dear wife and baby to mourn their loss. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 5, 1919

 

THOMAS, Jack

Another deep bereavement has fallen upon Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Thomas and Katherine, as well as upon all relatives and friends, in the death of their son Jack. This sad event took place at the Thomas home in Los Angeles, CA on Tuesday morning, Sep 23. A telegram was received Wednesday morning by Mr. and Mrs. F. F. Freese telling of his death and stating that Jack had been ill a month from inflammation of the bowels and peritonitis. Also that he would be buried by the side of his grandmother, Mrs. Katherine Freese, who died only a short time ago. Jack was 22 years old. He was an exceedingly bright young man and in spite of the fact that ill health had attended him since early childhood, he was cheerful, happy and patient. His parents had done everything possible to improve his health, having consulted some of the best physicians in the United States. It was chiefly on his account that Mr. Thomas retired from business 3 or 4 years ago, desiring to give his time to Jack’s care and comfort. At the hands of his mother and grandmother also he received every attention and his devotion to his parents was very marked. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 26, 1919

 

WHEELER, Henderson Castle

Henderson Castle Wheeler died in Ashland Wednesday from cerebral meningitis. He was 53 years old and 24 years ago moved from Johnson County to Ashland. His wife was Miss Eliza McKinney of Webbville. Two children, Marion Wheeler and Mrs. Nancy Dickerson survive. Big Sandy News, Friday, Sep 12, 1919

 

OCTOBER 1919

 

AKERS, Susan

Prestonsburg—On Thursday night, Sep 25, 1919, at Banner, Mrs. Susan Akers passed away. She lived in Rowan County, and came to this place to visit her son Noah Akers and other relatives. She was taken sick after she came. She was reared on Prater Creek. Some years ago she was married to J. B. Akers and to them were born 10 children, 7 of them were around her bedside when she passed away. Mrs. Akers was a sister of Judge Malone Hall of Allen and R. Hall, Banner. She had been a devoted Christian for 23 years. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 10, 1919

 

BOLT, W. D.

Mr. W. D. Bolt, of Bolt’s Fork, one of the best known and most beloved men of that section, died Friday at his home. The deceased was born in Lawrence County, but when just a boy went to Boyd County with his parents where he has resided ever since. He was 78 years of age and is survived by his wife and 13 children, a large number of grandchildren, great grandchildren and scores of friends. He was a member of the Methodist Church, was an upright, honorable citizen and held in the highest esteem by everyone. His funeral services were held Sunday morning at the Bolt’s Fork Methodist Church and were largely attended by friends from near and far. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 31, 1919

 

CAPERTON, William

William Caperton died at his home in Louisa Wednesday evening, after having been helpless for 2 years. Paralysis was the trouble. He had been unable to speak during the past year. His age was 65 and he had lived in Louisa all his life. He was a saddle and harness maker and had followed that trade since early manhood. About 4 years ago he joined the Christian Church. He was an active member of the Odd Fellows order. The wife and 4 sons and one daughter survive. The funeral took place at 3 o’clock Thursday afternoon from the residence of his daughter, Mrs. Ira Wellman. Burial in the Pine Hill Cemetery. In absence of the Christian pastor Rev. H. B. Hewlett was requested to conduct the funeral. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 17, 1919

 

FERGUSON, Julia Adaline (Bellomy)

The death of Mrs. Lindsey G. Ferguson occurred Monday morning after an illness of a year or more with tuberculosis. She is survived by her husband, 2 sons, W. T. and Clyde of Louisa and 2 daughters, Miss Clara of this place and Mrs. Morton Cisco of Grayson, all of whom were present at her death. Katie, a 14 months old daughter died while the family lived at Norman, OK. Mrs. Ferguson was Miss Julia Adaline Bellomy, daughter of the late Thomas Bellomy of Zelda. She was born in Lawrence County, OH, Apr 19, 1859, was married to L. G. Ferguson Dec 21, 1881. In 1882 she was converted and was baptized by Rev. Burwell Akers. She joined the Baptist Church at Tabors Creek, WV and was a faithful member during the remainder of her life. The funeral was conducted by Rev. H. B. Hewlett at the residence on Tuesday afternoon and was attended by many friends. Burial followed on Pine Hill. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 17, 1919

 

FORTNER, Rittie

On the 27th day of Sep 1919, the death angel visited the home of Mrs. David Mullins and took her beloved mother, Mrs. Rittie Fortner. She was a kind an loving mother and leaves many friends and relatives to mourn their loss. She had passed her 98th milestone. She leaves 4 daughters. Three girls and 4 boys and her husband have preceded her to the glory land. Two of her children were present at the funeral which was conducted by Rev. Reuben Curnutte. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 24, 1919

 

GRIM, Wallace

Ulysses—The friends and relatives and this entire community was shocked at the almost sudden death of Wallace Grim of Lowmansville on last Thursday night. Our informant says he had for several years been suffering with heart and rheumatism troubles and which had ??? much worse after an attack of influenza last fall. However, on the night of the??? ???/ he ate a hearty supper and retired to bed apparently well as usual. In a short time after retiring he became seriously ill and aroused his family who did all they could for him but all to no avail for in the brief half hour after calling his family he died. He leaves a wife, one son, several grandchildren and one brother. He was about 64 years old. Big Sandy news, Friday, Oct 24, 1919

 

JOBE, Harvey

Harvey Jobe, Sr., age about 82 years died at Osie Wednesday. He was a man of good standing in his community. A large number of relatives survive him. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 24, 1919

 

JOBE, Smith

Smith Jobe, son of James H. and Elizabeth Hobe, was born Sep 27, 1865 and died Aug 28, 1919. He was raised in Lawrence County, KY. When a young man he was married to Cannie Dalton of Hicksville. To this union were born 4 children. One son is married and resided in Ashland. He was for years a popular teacher of Lawrence County, after which he was engaged in the mercantile business where he worked until his affliction overcame him. Being ambitious and accommodating he will be greatly missed in they business world. He was afflicted 8 years though not kept in bed until one month before death came. When he began to fail he realized his lost condition and requested his intimate friends to make him an object of prayer. All was done that human power could do. Two weeks before he died he made a complete surrender to Christ who saved him form his sins. Friday morning the funeral services were held at the home, afterward the body was carried by sorrowing friends to the Jobe graveyard and laid to rest. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 3, 1919

 

MILLER, Joe

Joe Miller of Cliff, died at his home Sunday night of flux. He had been afflicted with rheumatism for 14 years, but was taken sick of flux three weeks ago and while he has had treatment from several physician, he was unable to get relief. He was buried at Pruitt’s Point. Mr. Miller was 53 years of age and is survived by his widow and 6 children, 2 boys and 4 girls. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 3, 1919

 

MUSIC, Mrs. Clell

Mrs. Clell Music, of Bonanza, was found death in her bed Tuesday, Sep 23. She was past 50 years of age, was rather fleshy and supposed to be in good health. In fact she was hearty the day before her death. Her death is supposed to have resulted from heart trouble. Her husband was visiting a married daughter in Ohio at the time of her death. She is survived by her husband and 7 children, 4 sons and 3 daughters. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 3, 1919

 

PETERS, William D.

After an illness of only 2 days Mr. William D. Peters passed away last Sunday morning at 2 o’clock at his home near Fort Gay, WV. Asthma in severe form is said to have caused his death. He was one of Wayne County’s best citizens. Mr. Peters had for many years been a faithful member of the Christian Church. His age was 73 years 10 months and 17 days. He was one of a family of 9, two of whom, Jake and Garred, died a few years ago. The surviving brothers are John N. of Saltpeter, WV, Charles F. of Fort Gay, James b. and C. B. of Louisa, M. D. of Kansas, Also one sister, Mrs. Smith of South Pekin, IL. Mr. Peters married a daughter of Samuel Vinson, deceased, formerly United States Marshall of West Virginia. She, with 10 children survive. The sons and daughters are Sam V., of Oklahoma, John of Arizona, Mike, Taylor and Gordon C. of Fort Gay, William H. of Wayne, Mrs. John B. Artrip of Ceredo, Mrs. Mamie Crutcher of Virginia and Miss Daisy Peters, who holds a position in the navy department and arrived home last Sunday from Norfolk, VA. The funeral service was held at the home on Tuesday afternoon and was attended by a large number of relatives and friends. Rev. L. D. Bryan of Fort Gay conducted the service. Burial took place in the family cemetery near the home. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 10, 1919

 

SENTERS, Dan

Griffith Creek—The death angel entered the home of Mr. and Mrs. Dan Senters Monday, Oct 13 and took from them their loving son, Edward. He was 20 years 3 months and 8 days old. He was a fine, sober, industrious young man. He leaves a father, mother and 11 brothers and a host of friends. He was laid to rest on the hill overlooking the home. He told his mother a few days before he died where he wanted to be buried. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 17, 1919

 

SKEANS, Eliza

Prestonsburg—Mrs. Eliza Skeans of Trimble Street died Wednesday morning of tubercular trouble. She was about 47 years of age and is survived by her husband Will Skeans and 3 children, 2 sons and one daughter. She was buried on Johns Creek. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 10,1919

 

SPEARS, Vinnia (Preston)

The death of Mrs. Julius Spears occurred Oct 10th after an illness of 4 years or more. She is survived by her husband and 2 sons, Arbie and Luther and one daughter Esta. Mrs. Spears was Vinnia Preston. She was the daughter of Rosco Preston and was born in Johnson County, KY, Mar 9, 1875. She joined the Baptist Church at Toms Creek. The funeral service was conducted by Rev. G. W. Gibbs and Rev. Manford Castle at the residence on Sunday afternoon and was attended by many friends. The burial followed a the family graveyard. Big Sandy news, Friday, Oct 24, 1919

 

STEPP, John

Inez, KY—Everett Stepp, deaf and dumb mute, is lodged in the county jail and will be charged with the murder of his father, John Stepp, former county court clerk. When Everett purchased a shotgun, it is said his father remonstrated, saying the money could be used to better advantage. The boy left the house after being ordered to sell the gun. Returning, the boy found his father seated on a log talking to two women. He warned the women away and it is said opened fire on his father, killing him instantly. It is alleged that the boy then went to his home and fired 2 shots at his sister, Mollie Stepp, 18. Returning to where he had killed his father he stood guard over the body for an hour, then took to the hills. News of the killing preceded him and women and children barricaded themselves in their homes. Later young Stepp met W. R. McCoy, a lawyer and wrote him that he wanted a coffin. He next entered a store and carrying his gun with him, motioned the proprietor that he wanted something. He was disarmed here and placed in jail. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 24, 1919

 

STEWART, Mrs. James

Mrs. James Stewart died in Ashland Wednesday. Before marriage she was Miss Permelia Turman of Buchanan, this county. Two sons survive. They are Morris and Harrison Stewart of Ashland. Three daughters are Miss Jessie Stewart and Mrs. John Kobs of Ashland and Mrs. Koontz of Detroit, Samuel and John Turman and Mrs. James McSorley of Buchanan and James Turman of Idaho are her brothers and sister. Rev. C. A. Slaughter will conduct the funeral Friday and interment will be made in the Ashland Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 17, 1919

 

WELLMAN, Albert

Dave, son of Albert Wellman, arrived here Monday from Tazewell County, VA bringing the body of his son Albert, who died there Sunday. The boy’s death was caused by an injury to his foot which resulted in blood poison. He was 12 years old. The burial took place in Pine Hill Cemetery. The family has many relatives and friends here, all of whom deeply sympathize with the bereaved. Big Sandy News, Friday, Oct 10, 1919

 

NOVEMBER 1919

 

BLAKE, Mrs. Oscar

Mrs. Oscar Blake, of Whites Creek, WV, died at her home last Saturday. Mrs. Blake leaves a husband and 3 small children. The youngest of the children is only a few days old. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 28, 1919

 

CENTERS, Osie

Miss Osie Centers, 15, died of typhoid fever. After funeral services by Rev. Hart her body was taken to Jennies Creek for burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 7, 1919

 

DEAN, Mrs. Purlina

Mrs. Purlina Dean, wife of the late Steven Dean and daughter of the late Samuel Ferguson, died last week at the home of her son James near Elmwood. She was 82 years old and had been in declining health for some time. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 28, 1919

 

ELKINS, Ruth

Donithon—Little Ruth Elkins, age 12 years, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joel Elkins died early Tuesday morning, Oct 21. She was sick only a few days. Cause of death unknown. Interment was made at the mouth of Donithon. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Charles Maynard. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 7, 1919

 

ESTEP, John

The death of John Estep occurred Sunday night at his home here and was caused by double pneumonia following influenza. He had been sick only a few days. Mr. Estep had lived in Louisa a few years except for a short time spent in Catlettsburg. He was in the produce business and was well known through the county. He was about 50 years old and leaves a wife and 2 children, 2 brothers and one sister, Mrs. Joe Payne of this place. The burial took place at the old home place near Mattie. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 14, 1919

 

HALL, Mary

The body of Mary Hall was brought to Louisa Saturday and burial took place Sunday in Pine Hill Cemetery beside her parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Hall. Her death occurred in the State hospital at Lexington, where she had been only a short time. She was about 35 years old. Rev. J. T. Pope conducted funeral services. The Hall family moved to Louisa several years ago from Martin County. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 7, 1919

 

JAMES, William Ballard

William Ballard James, the one year old son of Attorney B. M. James and wife, died Oct 29 after an illness of the past few weeks. He was taken to specialist for treatment and for a time seemed to improve. He was the only child of Mr. and Mrs. James. Burial took place in the Weddington cemetery. Funeral services conducted by Rev. C. A. Powers and Rev. E. S. Forester, of the M.E. Church South and Baptist Church. Big Sandy news, Friday, Nov 7, 1919

 

LACKEY, James Q.

Mr. James Q. Lackey died at one o’clock Monday morning at his residence in Louisa. For the past few years he had been in failing health and for many weeks had been confined to his bed. He suffered from a number of diseases, one of which was a leaky heart. At his beside when death came were his wife, son and daughter, James Q. Lackey, Jr. and Mrs. harry C. Corns, the latter having come from her home in Florence, Alabama, several months ago to assist in caring for her father in his illness. He was the son of Greenville and Rebecca Quinn Lackey, of this city, both of whom died many years ago. He was born in Louisa 67 years ago and had spent his entire life here. He was prominent in politics for many years, being an active Democrat. He enlisted in the Confederate Army a the age of 13. Had been a member of the Legislature of Kentucky, served as Sheriff of Lawrence County, a member of the Board of Election Commissioners and Master Commissioner.

 

In 1873 he married Miss Lida Rice, daughter of Judge John M. Rice. Five children were born to them, three of whom are living. A daughter died in infancy and Alex died 8 years ago. John G. who lived in East Liverpool, OH, was unable to attend the funeral. Mr. Lackey had been a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows orders since 1873. Both of the local lodges of these orders took part in the funeral. He had served as Grand Marshall of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky Masons. A few years ago Mr. Lackey joined the M. E. church South and lived a consistent life from that time until his death. He suffered greatly during the last days of his life, but was happy in the assurance of his future. The funeral was held in the M. E. Church South and the large building was filled with friends from this and other places. Rev. J. D. Bell made an appropriate talk. The interment followed in Pine Hill Cemetery, where lie the remains of several of Mr. Lackey’s loved ones. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 21, 1919

 

LESLIE, Mrs. Allen

Mrs. Allen Leslie, died Tuesday night at the home of her brother, Mr. Tom Huffman after a very brief illness. Mrs. Leslie was sick only a few hours. She had a stroke of paralysis late Tuesday and died same night at 12 o’clock. Mrs. Leslie was 61 years old, a member of the Presbyterian Church for a long time. She leaves 3 brothers, R. T. , W. T. and W. B. Huffman, all of this city, 2 sisters, Mrs. Florence Triplett of this city and Mrs. Tebbs of Canada. She was married to Mr. Allen Leslie in 1880. He preceded her in death some 25 years, and she has ever since made her home with her brother. Funeral which was preached by Dr. Crawford was held a the Presbyterian Church Thursday afternoon and some was in charge of the Eastern Star’s. Burial in Pikeville Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 7, 1919

 

LYON, Victor

Skaggs, KY—The death angel visited the home of Alonzo E. Lyon and took from them their darling son, Victor. He was 2 years 8 months and 2 days old. The disease that caused his death was fliocolitis, which is so fatal among children. He bore his suffering bravely and although so young he seemed to realize the end was near and wanted his mother to sing. She started quite a few of the lullaby songs she had so often sang but he kept telling her that was not the one until she started “I’m Going Back To Jesus” that was the one he wanted and the little fellow joined in and helped to sing. He acted all the time through his sickness like a child 5 or 6 years old. All was done that loving hands could do, but little Victor was too good to live in this sinful world and has gone to live with Jesus. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 14, 1919

 

MAYNARD, Victoria

Mrs. Victoria Maynard died Oct 24 of pneumonia at her old home in Aflex, KY after an illness of 5 days. Mrs. Maynard was born in Logan County, VA, Mar 1, 1861 before the formation of the state of West Virginia. Her parents were George and Emily Smith. She was married at South Point, Lawrence Co., OH on the 6th day of May 1866 to Alvis Maynard, who survives her. Mr. and Mrs. Maynard returned from South Point to Williamson, WV on the first steamboat that came to the mouth of Pond Creek, KY. Mrs. Maynard was very widely known as a good and Christian woman. Her funeral was held at the home of P. B. Maynard in Williamson. Her remains were interred at the city cemetery at Williamson. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 7, 1919

 

MORRIS, Millie

Mrs. Millie Morris died Thursday morning at her home at Blaine. For the past few weeks she had been suffering with a dislocated hip, and her advanced age interfered with recovery. She was the mother of Mrs. M. M. Burgess and Dr. Will and Dr. Charles Morris of Greenup. Big Sandy News, Friday Nov 7, 1919

 

PORTER, Alice (Hatcher)

Mrs. Elizabeth Hatcher, has received at telegram from Philadelphia stating that her daughter, Mrs. Alice Hatcher Porter, died there yesterday of apoplexy, after a brief illness. The body will be brought to Louisa for burial and should arrive Friday. The funeral arrangements have not been announced when the NEWS went to press. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Imogene Porter Lankes, who lived in New York City. Mrs. Porter was about 50 years old and had lived in Philadelphia 10 years or more. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 21, 1919

 

ROBERTS, Mrs. W. Jay

Funeral services for Mrs. W. Jay Roberts were held Friday morning at 10 o’clock at the residence, Rev. J. T. Pope officiating. Burial took place in Fulkerson Cemetery. Walter, one of the grown sons, arrived in time to attend the funeral but Herbert was not located. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 14, 1919

 

SMITH, Green

Webbville—We are sorry to hear of the death of Green Smith. His brother, E. W. Smith of this place, stayed by his bedside until death claimed him as a victim. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 21, 1919

 

SMITH, Sam

Sam Smith, 25, from West Virginia, was run over by the passenger train Sunday night at the water tank near the mouth of Beaver and killed. His body was cut into about his breast and mangled horribly. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 7, 1919

 

SPILLMAN, Kay

The death angel visited the home of Jeff Spillman and claimed his son Kay. He was sick just 2 weeks but he bore his sickness with patience. He told his father and mother that he wanted them not to weep over him for he was only going home. Kay was 18 years of age. He leaves to mourn the loss of him a father, mother, 4 sisters and 3 brothers. Kay was converted a few hours before death came. The family was all present but one, Mrs. Charley Ferrell, who was unable to attend the funeral. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 28, 1919

 

SPROUSE, James

Buchanan, Nov 19—James Sprouse who was bitten by a spider about 3 weeks ago, died Sunday morning. Typhoid developed soon after the bite and his system was so poisoned that it did not yield to medical treatment. The spider was a large red spotted one and in an hour after the bite Mr. Sprouse became violently ill, death resulting Sunday. His funeral was in charge of the local lodge of I.O.O. F. and burial took place at Durbin. He was 32 years of age and leaves a wife and 4 small children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 21, 1919

 

STEPP, Peggie

Inez—Mrs. Peggie Stepp, widow of the late Rev. Elias Stepp, passed away Nov 7. She was over 80 years of age and has been bed-ridden for the past 2 or 3 years. She was the mother of Jim Stepp of Kermit, WV who is one of the wealthiest men in this section of the county. Several hundred people attended her funeral which was held on Wolf Creek near the old homestead. Rev. Stepp, her husband, was well known over the county as a popular preacher of the Baptist Church. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 28,1919

 

THOMPSON, Dorothy Marie

On Sunday, Nov 9, 1919 just after the world was wrapped in the shadows of night the home of Mr. and Mrs. Amos Thompson, Jr., was made sad and lonely by the angel of death making a visit taking from them their darling little baby, Dorothy Marie, aged about 13 months. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. G. V. Pack, after which her little form was laid to rest in the Judd graveyard. Big sandy news, Friday, Nov 21, 1919

 

VANETTER, Howard

Howard, the little 5 years old son of Castner Vanetter died Wednesday of membranous croup, being sick only 2 days. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 21, 1919

 

WALDEN, George

George Walden died at Camp Taylor a few days ago and his body was accompanied to Louisa by a comrade and taken to his home on Twin Branch for burial. He become suddenly ill in Louisville with some heart trouble and died in a short while. When men were being sent from Lawrence County by the draft in the spring of 1918 young Walden begged to be sent ahead of his number, offering to take the place of any married man in the list. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 21, 1919

 

WILEY, Pharmer

Queens Ridge, WV

A loving father and a kind husband, show spent the early part of his life in Lawrence County and had many friends and relatives there, who will be interested in the following, was Pharmer Wiley, age 62 years. His death came so suddenly it was a great shock to his many friends. He had lived here for several years, having moved from Lawrence County, KY to Wayne County, WV. Bro. Wiley was loved by all who knew him. His life was of purity and that we all should follow. He never was a wicked man, always seemed to be ever ready to do what was right and to abstain from evil. He was a member of the Baptist Church and had lived a constant Christian for 40 years. He always met you with a smile and always had a kind word for everyone. To meet him was never to forget him but to love him. He was married to Emezeta Pack, daughter of Sam Pack and to this union were born 7 children, 4 sons and 3 daughters. All the children were present at the death of their father except the baby boy Milton. As he was a traveling man they couldn’t get him located. The children present were Mrs. James Karney of Queens Ridge, Mrs. Flem Wellman of Lookout, KY, Mrs. John Nelson, John Wiley, S. F. Wiley and T. B. Wiley of Huntington, WV. This family is son good and kind to each other that their home was almost a paradise of love and kindness. Brother Wiley lived in Mingo County when he died but he told them before he died he wanted to be brought back to Wayne County for burial. His body was laid to rest in the Mountain Home Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 14, 1919

 

WILKES, Cecil

Twin Branch—We are very sorry to hear of the death of little Cecil Wilkes. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 7, 1919

 

WILLIAMSON, Arbie

There is no longer any doubt about Arbie Williamson, colored, having been killed in France. Official report of this fact did not arrive until recently. Conflicting reports had come to his home in Louisa. The other colored soldiers from here doubted the report that Arbie had been killed until it was finally confirmed by the government. He was insured for ten thousand dollars for the benefit of his brother Tom, who was rejected by the army on account of physical disability. Tom will receive $57.50 per month. Thus it will be seen that the colored youth died a thing that many white soldiers refused to do—insure their lives. He was a son of George and Tillie Williamson, respectable colored people of Louisa who died years ago. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 14, 1919

 

WILSON, Mrs. Dave

A sad accident occurred on Lockwoods Creek near Lockwood station Saturday night when Mrs. Dave Wilson was so badly burned that she died 5 hours later. The accident was caused by the explosion of a kerosene lamp. They had blown out the light and retired when she noticed that it was burning down in the oil. When she attempted to extinguish it the lamp burst, throwing the burning oil over her, completely burning the entire body. Dr. Prichard was called from here, but was detained and did not reach the home until after she died in great agony. She was about 45 years old and leaves a husband and family for whom much sympathy is felt. Big Sandy News, Friday, Nov 21, 1919

 

DECEMBER 1919

 

CAINES, Richard Perry

The Ashland Independent says: Mr. Richard Perry Caines, aged 78 years passed away at 2 o’clock Wednesday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Jack Thompson, after a short illness. He came to Catlettsburg from near Louisa some time ago and was tenderly cared for by his devoted daughter, Mrs. Thompson. His children are Mrs. Thompson, Miss Myrtle Caines, Ben Caines of this city and Dr. John Caines of Coyote Falls, OH. He is also survived by 6 brothers, Andy Caines, Kenova, Henry Caines of Louisa, Robert Caines of Fallsburg, and George of Queens, WV; Jack and James Caines of Ashland. Mr. Caines was a highly esteemed Christian gentleman, liked by all who knew him. the funeral was held yesterday at 2 o’clock at the home and was conducted by Rev. Isaiah Cline and Rev. B. S. Akers, the latter of Ceredo. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 5, 1919

 

COOKSEY, Lillian

The death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Grant Cooksey on last Friday evening and embraced in its broad wings their darling little girl, Lillian and flew swiftly away over the valley of death where little Lillian is safe from sickness, pain or death. She was a bright little girl of 5 years. Lillian was sick about 2 months. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 26, 1919

 

DIAMOND, Joshua

Joshua Diamond died last Thursday night at his home in Louisa. He had been confined to the house only a few weeks from infirmities due to advanced age. He was well known and had always been a law abiding citizen of this county. He was for many years constable in his magisterial district. Mr. Diamond was born and raised within 3 miles of Louisa and spent his entire life in this locality. At the time of his death, he was the oldest citizen of this place, having almost reached his 91st birthday. Mr. Diamond is survived by 2 sons and 3 daughters. Funeral services was conducted at the home on Saturday afternoon at 4 o’clock by the Rev. H. B. Hewlett. On Sunday morning the body was taken to Smokey Valley and laid to rest in the family burial ground. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 26, 1919

 

DINGUS, Sallie

Mrs. Sallie Dingus, of Dinwood, died Nov 28, at the extreme age of 85 years. She was born and reared in Floyd County where her long and useful life was spent. She is survived by 8 sons and daughters. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 12, 1919

 

FRALEY, Burns

Mrs. Patty Fraley received a message from North Carolina Tuesday stating her son Burns Fraley who was in service for Uncle Sam was at the point of death. She went but reached there too late for death had relieved him of his suffering before her arrival. He was a fine young man, about 22 year sold and leaves an aged mother, several brothers and sisters. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 19, 1919

 

HAYS, Susan

Susan Hays of Hueysville, died Nov 26, 1919. She was born Dec 25, 1862 and was 57 years old at the time of her death. She was a member of the Church of Christ for several years and was faithful to the cause until death. She leaves 8 children 4 sons and 4 daughters to mourn her loss. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 19, 1919

 

KAZEE, Joe

The Ashland Independent says: After suffering excruciating agony for hours Joe Kazee, aged 29 years, passed away at the King’s Daughters’ hospital at 9 o’clock Sunday morning, his death having been caused by multiple steam scalds, accidentally received while in he performance of his duty at the Kentucky Solvay Company about 2 o’clock the same morning. Kazee worked as a flue man and it is stated that his duties called him to work about the coke ovens. According to the story told by one of the workman Kazee had gone in a pocket next an oven to regulate the gas while a car was being loaded with hot coke at an oven further up the track. He thought he had time to finish the work before the car with its white hot mass came down by the pocket where he was working. Water is flooded on the hot coke producing a volume of steam and the car passed by the pocket n which Kazee was at work.

 

It was stated that if he screamed no one heard him and his pitiable plight was not known for minutes after the car had passed him, when he staggered down the track. It is thought that the unfortunate man inhaled a death draught of the steam. He was at once taken to the King’s Daughters’ hospital and every thing that medical science could suggest was done to alleviate his suffering but he passed away a few hours later. Joe Kazee was born in Lawrence County, KY in 1890, the son of William and Elizabeth Kazee. He leaves a wife and 2 children, a girl aged 7 and a boy 2 years old. His mother who still resided in Lawrence County is widowed, his father having died some years ago. The funeral service took place at the family home on Greenup Avenue at 1 o’clock Wednesday afternoon and was held under the auspices of the Ashland Lodge I.O.O. F. of which the deceased was a member, he having joined the organization of the day of the 100th Anniversary of the order. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 26, 1919

 

LITTERAL, F. M.

Paintsville—On Nov 21 at his home in Oil Springs, this county, F. M. Litteral quietly passed from this life into the world beyond. He was a son of the late Hostin Litteral and a brother of Judge W. E. Litteral. He was 80 years old. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 5, 1919

 

MOORE, Kate

The body of Kate Moore arrived Saturday from Columbus, OH to be buried at Dry Ridge Sunday. She was a good woman, liked by all and leaves a husband and several grown children. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 19, 1919

 

MOORE, Millie

The pale horse and its rider visited our community and took from us one of our dearest, kindest and best friends in the person of Millie Moore, wife of David Moore. She was born in Lawrence County, KY Oct 27, 1845, departed this life Nov 24, 1919, aged 74 years and 28 days. She joined the M. E. Church South and was converted in 1863 and lived a true, devoted Christian for 34 years. She was married to David Moore when very young and to this union were born 4 noble children, 3 girls and one boy, Jennie, Judie, Nevada, and James. Jink, as we called her preceded her mother to the glory world about 5 years ago. And the 3 living were around their mother’s dying bed doing all for mother they could do. Big Sandy news, Friday, Dec 26, 1919

 

NEW, Andy

Andy New, Sr., died at his home in Fort Gay Tuesday morning, after an illness of only a few das. The body was taken to the family burial ground a few miles up the river on Wednesday for interment. He is survived by the wife who is almost her husband’s age and in very feeble health. Also by a son and daughter and grandson, Andy New, Jr. and 2 other orphan grandchildren. Mr. New was 78 years old and was a good citizen. He was industrious and frugal and had accumulated a fair sized estate. Recently he sold the Lackey property in the lower part of Louisa and moved to Fort Gay. Big Sandy news, Friday, Dec 12, 1919

 

PRESTON, Charley

The death of Charley Preston occurred Sunday morning at the hospital. He had been brought to Louisa Saturday night in the hope that an operation might save his life, but he had delayed the matter too long for an operation to be made. He was a son of John Ham Preston of Georges Creek, and a brother of Mrs. John Henry Preece, of this place and of Hite Preston of Fort Gay. The body was taken to the home place near the mouth of Georges Creek for burial. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 5, 1919

 

SAMMONS, Mary

Mary Sammons, daughter of Wayne and Nancy Coburn, died Nov 30, 1919. She was married to Charles A. Sammons at the age of 18. She is survived by father, mother, husband and 8 children. Most of the children are small. She lived nearly 38 years to gladden the lives of all who known her. She was converted about 10 or 12 years ago and united with the Louisa Baptist Church. Funeral services were conducted Dec 1 at her home by her cousin Ed W. Lambert, after which the remains were taken to the family burying grounds. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 5, 1919

 

STEWART, Velma

Miss Velma Stewart died Monday at her home near Louisa. She was about 12 years old and is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clint Stewart, who recently moved to the Atkins farm near this place. Her death was caused by typhoid fever. She was a niece of B. D. Lambert of Louisa. The body was taken to East Fork, where burial will take place on Thursday in the Lambert Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Friday, Dec 26, 1919

 

WELLMAN, Johnie Elgin

Busseyville—the death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Millard Wellman of near Adams and took from them their little darling, Johnie Elgin. He was one month and 23 days of age. His death was caused by whooping cough. The remains were brought to this place Sunday evening and laid to rest in the burial ground overlooking the home of David Bradley. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. M. A. Hay of Smokey Valley. Big Sandy news, Friday, Dec 19, 1919

 

WELLS, Mart

On Tuesday of this week, Martin Wells was shot and killed by a man named Harmon at Odds, 3 miles from Van Lear. Wells then shot Harmon and at last report Harmon was speechless and thought to be dying. Wells friends laid out his body in a school house and also put Harmon in there and guarded the building, allowing no one to go in. Wells recently returned from the army and it is said some deserters in the neighborhood suspected that he would cause their arrest. This is given as the reason for the trouble. Big Sandy news, Friday, Dec 26, 1919