1937    

JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
  HISTORICAL
  & GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
PAINTSVILLE, KENTUCKY

 
OBITUARY WEBSITE

  

1937
 


  JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
RELATED OBITUARIES
  1937
 
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JANUARY - 1937

BOWEN, Henry
1937
THEALKA MINER, AGE 63, DIED LAST FRIDAY
Henry Bowen, age about 63, died at Thealka last Friday, following a week's illness.  His death was attributed to a heart attack.  Mr. Bowen was a miner employed by the North-East Coal Company at Thealka.  Besides his widow he is survived by two sons and two daughters. Funeral services were held at Thealka in charge of the North-East Coal Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 14, 1937

   
CASTLE, John
1870-1937
DEATH CLAIMS JOHN CASTLE
Brother of Paintsville Woman Died Here January 12 John Castle, of the Lowmansville section of Lawrence County, died at the Paintsville Hospital here January 12, 1937, following a brief illness.  He was born in Johnson County June 19, 1870, and was in his 67th year.  He was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church and was known as a good citizen. Mr. Castle was a brother of Mrs. Amanda Price of Paintsville. He is survived by the following children: Mrs. Harve May, Van Lear, Kentucky; Mrs. Paul Deskins, Kermit, W. Virginia; two sons, Howard Castle and Harry Castle, addresses unknown; two sisters, Mrs. Amanda Price, Paintsville, and Mrs. Laura Vinson, of Louisa; two brothers, Warren Castle, Ledocia, Kentucky, and James Castle of Catlettsburg, Kentucky. He is also survived by three half brothers, Lindsey Castle, Walter Castle and Earl Castle, all of the Toms Creek section of this county, and one half sister, Mrs. Willie Crider. Funeral services were held at the Paintsville Freewill Baptist Church on Wednesday, in charge of Rev. H. B. Conley, pastor of the church. Burial was in Mayo Cemetery by the side of this brother-in-law, M. L. Price. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday  January 21, 1937

 
CASTLE, Link
1937
LINK CASTLE BILL PIGG IS UNDER BOND
Victim’s Head Crushed By Blow From Pistol.
Link Castle, age about 45 died Sunday from injuries received at a beer joint operated by Bill Pigg in Greentown, a suburb of Paintsville.  Pigg, age about 30, was arrested and charged with the killing. The trouble took place Saturday evening about 8:30  and Castle died Sunday morning about 2:30. Pigg was arraigned before County Judge H. B. Conley Wednesday afternoon for an examining trial. According to testimony brought out at the examining trial it seems that Castle was drunk and went into Pigg’s establishment and is alleged to have raised a disturbance.  Pigg is said to have ordered Castle out of his place of business.  Castle, it is reported, refused to go, and Pigg attempted to put him out and during the scuffle Pigg is alleged to have struck Castle on the left side of the head with a heavy revolver.  The skull was crushed.  Castle was taken to the Golden Rule Hospital where his wounds were dressed.  He was conscious and asked that he be taken to his home in Greentown where he died Sunday morning shortly after 2 o’clock. After the examining trial Pigg was held to the action of the grand jury under $5.00 bond.  The bond was immediately executed and Pigg was released from jail.  He will be tried in Circuit Court at the February term. Both men are married and have families. This is the second man to lose his life through violence in Johnson County during the past three weeks.  The Toddle Inn in Lowmansville on the Johnson and Lawrence county line was the scene of a Killing about three weeks ago. Paintsville Herald Thursday Jan.7 1937

 
CAUDILL, Ben F.
1937
Former County Man Dies in Ohio
News has been received here that Ben F. Caudill, age 67 years, died at the St. Francis Hospital at Columbus, Ohio, January 20, 1937 after a brief illness from pneumonia.  He was a former resident of Johnson County. Mr. Caudill was a son of the late Reuben Caudill and was raised to young manhood at Barnetts Creek.  He moved to Ohio 37 years ago. Mr. Caudill was married to Sarah Preston, daughter of Rev. Rhodes Preston. He leaves many relatives in this section.  He was a nephew of Rev. Lewis F. Caudill of Salyersville. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-28-1937

 
DEMPSEY, Lewis
1937
Martin County Man Succumbs After Long Illness
INEZ, KY.
Lewis Dempsey, one of Martin County's first residents and a prominent figure in the history of the big Sandy Valley, died at his home here January 18 after a long illness. Active in the industrial development of the Big Sandy section. Mr. Dempsey saw the valley change from a rural, semi-agricultural landside to its present place of importance in the mining and industrial world. With John C. C. Mayo he organized the Inez Deposit Bank, serving as president until his death. He also was an organizer of the Kermit State Bank and was a leader in the development of the Kermit coal field. He also had an interest in the Kentucky- West Virginia bridge at Kermit. Known as a generous trader he was unusually successful in another venture, being associated in several grocery and merchandise ventures. He was a partner in a leading Inez store. Born one mile below Warfield, August 4, 1852, he was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Dempsey. He was educated in the public schools, the Masonic Academy at Louisa, Marshall College at Huntington, and a Cincinnati business college. He was married to Miss Essie Gold in 1888. Surviving are the following: The widow, four daughters, Mrs. Chas I Barton, Girard, Ill.; Mrs. Corrinne Cooper, Inez; Mrs. Evelyn D Moss, Inez, and Mrs. E. P. Stepp, Kermit. Funeral services held at Inez. Burial followed in the family cemetery at Warfield. Officiating ministers were Rev. H. L. Clay, of Beckley, and Rev. Ivy Yoak, of Kenova. Mr. Dempsey was a member of the Methodist Church. Painstville Herald Thursday 1-28-1937

 
GARDNER, Ralph
1937
KILLED IN OHIO VICTIM IDENTIFIED AS “HAPPY JACK” LEWIS.
Columbus, O.
Ralph Gardner, Chief Franklin County Deputy Sheriff, reported last week that he had tentatively identified the victim of a Sunday “hobo jungle” slaying as John “Happy Jack Lewis, of Paintsville, Ky. The man, beaten to death, first was identified as Pearl Pleasant, of Paintsville, but Gardner said Pearl Pleasant was a woman and she expressed belief the man was Lewis. Gardner said he understood Lewis had two brothers living in Ashland, Ky., and a sister at North Fork, W. Va. From the best information we can get Lewis is a native of Johnson County and formerly resided on Barnetts Creek.  He has several relatives in the county, including Jerry Lewis of Barnetts Creek. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 28, 1937

 
HALL, Ann Pearl
1937
Two-Year-Old Child Dies From Burns
Little Ann Pearl Hall, two-year-old daughter of Mrs. Lloyd Hall, died at the Paintsville Hospital Saturday night from the effects of burns received a few hours before.  The family resides at Thelma and the little daughter was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to her burns. It is thought that the child climbed upon the stove and overturned a pot of beans cooking on the stove, the contents spilling over her body. Funeral and burial took place at East Point Tuesday afternoon under the direction of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 21, 1937

 
LESTER, Mrs. Walter (Music)
1937
MRS. LESTER DIED HERE SATURDAY
Mrs. Walter Lester, 42 years old, died at the Paintsville Hospital last Saturday morning after a few weeks illness.  She was brought to the local hospital from her home at Prestonsburg a few days before her death. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mart Music, and the funeral services were held from the home of her parents at Hager Hill Sunday afternoon.  Burial in the family cemetery there.  The Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of the funeral and burial. Besides her parents she is survived by her husband, two daughters, Mrs. Walter Clark, and a small daughter. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 14, 1937

 
PACK, Alice May
1937
Miss Alice May Pack, age 16, died at the King’s Daughter’s Hospital at Ashland January 11. Miss Pack had gone to the hospital for an operation. She had had an attack of infantile paralysis during infancy leaving her with a weakened leg, which necessitated her wearing a steel brace. Her parents had sent her to the hospital with the hope that the defect might be corrected and that she might be able to walk without the brace. The operation was thought to be a very simple one, requiring a small incision at the knee, but for some small reason the operation proved fatal.Miss Pack was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. L. Pack of Paintsville. She was a loveable girl and a favorite of her parents for whom much sympathy is felt. Funeral services were held at Old Friendship Baptist Church at Williamsport and in charge of Rev. John W. Butcher and Rev. Guy W. Preston. Burial at the old home place at Williamsport. The Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company directed the funeral and burial. PAINTVILLE HERALD THUSDAY JAN. 21 1937

 
PETREY, Margaret (Clark)
1849-1937
AGED WOMAN PASSES
By ROBERT MURPHY
West Van Lear, Ky.--Mrs. Margaret Clark Petrey, age 87, died at 1 P.M. Wednesday, January 6 1937 after an illness of several weeks. The deceased was born in Mercus County, West Virginia, in 1849, and was married to James Petrey in 1863. Mr. Petrey died in 1910. "Grand Ma Petrey" as she was very affectionately known to her many friends, had been a member of the Methodist Church and a devoted Christian for more than half a century. Very impressive funeral services were conducted at the home by the Rev. Everman, after which the remains were taken to Carter County for enterment in the Keffer Cemetery, with Rev. Bolden officiating at the burial. She is survived by six children: John Petrey of Louisa, Ky., James Petrey and Cicero Petrey, each of West Van Lear, Mr. A. B. Conley of Grayson, Ky., Mrs. Dell Clendening of Elkdale, W. Va., and Mrs. Cora Stevens of Sharon, W. Va. Also a large number of grandchildren survive. A great concourse attended the funeral. Among those who accompanied the remains to Carter County were: Mrs.Scott P. Duncan and little daughter, Annie Mary, Mrs. Robert Fraley, Mrs. L. B. Luther, Mr. Frank Whitaker and son Vernon, all of West Van Lear. Also Mr. and Mrs. William Meace and Mr. Gus Meace of Canelton, W. Va: and Mr. Leslie Fatton of Smithers, W. Va. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JAN 14 1937

 
PICKLE, Paulina (Sturgill)
1862-1937
Here is the obit for Perlina Sturgill Pickle.    File Name: Pickle,Paulina-2-4-1937.jpg  Stroke Fatal To Aged Woman  Mrs. Paulina Pickle, 74 years old died Friday, January 29, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Allen in West Paintsville.  Mrs. Pickle suffered a paralytic stroke about three months ago from which she never recovered. Mrs. Pickle was a daughter of the late Jeff Sturgill and was raised at the old Sturgill home at the mouth of Barnetts Creek. Paintsville Herald  Thursday  February 4, 1937  Additional information:  Her given name was Perlina, not Paulina.  She was married to Samuel Nathan Picklesimer, March 2, 1882.  She was born in December of 1862, the daughter of Jefferson M. Sturgill and Sirena Fairchild.  She and Samuel Nathan had five children: Lawrence P. Picklesimer, Milton Gideon Picklesimer, Ida V. Picklesimer Nolia M. Picklesimer and Lile Etta Picklesimer.  I do not have any additional information on the children. From my records it would appear that she was married four times with Samuel Nathan being her first husband. John Picklesimer

 
RATLIFF, William Milton
1936-1937
WILLIAM MILTON RATLIFF THEALKA CHILD SUCCUMBS
William Milton Ratliff, the three month old son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Milt Ratliff, died at the home of his parents at Thealka January 7. Burial at Thealka January 8.  The little son is survived by his parents and a number of brothers and sisters. Paintsville Herald Thursday Jan.14 1937

 
SALYER, William M.
1937
Instantly Killed On Mayo Trail Near Paintsville
William M. Salyer, age 50, who resides at West Van Lear, was struck and instantly killed on the Mayo Trail through the "Narrows" last Saturday afternoon at about 3 o'clock.  Mr. Salyer was returning to his home at West Van Lear along with a small son. Mr. Salyer was struck by a car driven by Mr. T.J. Miller of Drift, Floyd County, who said the accident was unavoidable on his part, and who was shocked because of the tragedy.  Mr. Miller said that Salyer was pushing a dump cart in the middle of the highway and did not pull over to either side of the road.  He said he believed Mr. Salyer moved out of the road and got to close to swerve to either side without a collision. Mr. Miller had the body brought to the Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company where he made arrangements for all funeral expenses. Mr. Salyer formerly lived in Paintsville where he did odd jobs for several years. Funeral services were held at the home in charge of Rev. Guy W. Preston.  Burial in the old Paintsville cemetery back of the city. He is survived by his widow and several children. Paintsville Herald  Thursday 1-21-1937

 
WADDLE, Burns
1937
LOUISA MAN KILLED IN PRISON RIOTING
Burns Waddle, 43, of Louisa, was one of the inmates of the Frankfort penitentiary killed in the three-day reign of terror in the flooded penitentiary, according to the Big Sandy News. Waddle was sent to the penitentiary October 19 of last year after being sentenced to one year’s imprisonment by a jury in Lawrence Circuit Court on a charge of housebreaking. Waddle is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ella Curtis Waddle, of Louisa; one son, Lawrence, in a CCC camp, and two daughters, ages 9 and 14. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 4, 1937




FEBRUARY - 1937
AUXIER, Mrs. E. E.
 1937
 
Mrs. Auxier dies in Nebraska.
  Mother of Paintsville woman dies last Thursday.
 Mrs. E.E. Auxier died at 10 o’clock  last Thursday morning, February 25, at her home in Dawson, Nebraska. Mrs. Auxier had been in bad health for the past several months and her death had been expected for several days. She was the mother of Mrs. Garland II Rice of Paintsville. Mrs. Rice and her daughter, Mrs. Mary Grace Rice were called to Dawson a few weeks ago and remained at the bedside of their mother and grandmother until the end came. Funeral services were held at the Auxier home at Dawson at 2:30 last Sunday afternoon. Burial was made at Dawson. Besides Mrs. Rice of Paintsville, she is survived by another daughter and two sons, all of whom reside in Nebraska. E.E. Auxier is a member of the Auxier family of the Big Sandy Valley. The family is prominent in the social and business life of Dawson. The many friends of Mrs. Rice in Paintsville sympathize with her in the loss of her mother. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-4-1937

 
DANIEL, Thomas J. 1937 T. J. Daniel Died At Ashland Monday Ashland, Ky.-Thomas J. Daniel, contractor, of Forty-fifth street, passed away at his home Monday at 1:20 p. m., after an illness of several months. He was born November 8, 1856, near Paintsville, Johnson county, Ky., the son of John Oliver Daniel and Margaret Castle Daniel.  He came to Boyd county when a young man and afterwards married Miss Inez Pigman, who preceded him in death nine years ago.  To this union were born four daughters and one son, Mrs. Mac Callihan, Mrs. E. L. Largent, Mrs. Fred J. Keifer, all of Ashland, Mrs. D. D. Coburn of Portsmouth, and John F. Daniel of Florida, all of whom survive him.  He also is survived by one sister, Mrs. Melissa Maynard, of Ashland, and several grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. A.O. Price, at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, in the Normal Presbyterian Church, of which he had been a member for the past twenty-seven years. Burial in the Williams cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 25, 1937

 
FIELDS, Henry Jefferson 1937 Prominent West Van Lear Man Pneumonia Victim Henry Jefferson Fields, age 64, known to a large number of Johnson County people as “Jeff” Fields died at his home at West Van Lear, Saturday, February 27.  Mr. Fields contracted flu which developed into pneumonia and which proved fatal after a short illness. Mr. Fields was one of the county’s most prominent citizens.  He was a member of the Christian Church and had lived a consistent Christian life, and was known as a good and valuable citizen.  His death will not only be mourned by his immediate family but by a large number of friends who knew him best. Funeral services were held Monday at the Van Lear Christian Church.  Burial was in the family cemetery on Two mile Monday afternoon.  The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of the funeral and burial. Mr. Fields’ wife died several years ago. He is survived by the following children; Thomas Fields, Preston Fields, Misses Jennie, Elva, Ada and Ruby Fields, all of West Van Lear and Herschel Fields of Prestonsburg. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-4-1937

 
FISHER, Harry
1937
HARRY FISHER HARRY FISHER, 45,
DIED SUNDAY NIGHT BY OWN HAND
Harry Fisher, age 45, prominent citizen of Van Lear, shot and killed himself at his home there Sunday night. Mr. Fisher went into the bathroom and fired a load from an automatic shot gun into his body.  Death was almost instantaneous. The cause of Mr. Fisher’s rash act is not known, but it is believed that despondency over home affairs was responsible for the deed. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher were born in Pennsylvania but came to Van Lear twenty-four years ago where Mr. Fisher has been connected with the Consolidation Coal Company working in various capacities.  At the time of his death he was tipple foreman for the company and was paid a good salary.  Money matters were evidently not the cause of his taking his own life. It is said that Mr. Fisher called his youngest son, Harry Edward, 13, into his room and intimated the course he expected to take.  He had made a will naming his youngest son as the sole beneficiary. The elder Fisher, it is said, is heir to considerable real estate in his old home in Pennsylvania.  The death of Mr. Fisher was a shock to the citizens of Van Lear. Funeral services were held at 3:30 Wednesday afternoon at the Van Lear M.E. Church, and were in charge of Reverend Everman, the pastor.  Burial followed in the J.B. Wells Cemetery in Bridgford Addition. The Paintsville Furniture Company prepared the body for burial. Mr. Fisher is survived by his wife and three daughters, Mrs. “Slim” Rose, Williamson, W. Va., Mrs. Douglas Smith and Miss Annebelle Fisher of Van Lear; two sons, James and Harry Edward, at home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday October 28, 1937

 
HITCHCOCK, Opal (Pelphrey)
1937
Win Woman Died  Here Last Thursday
Mrs. Opal Hitchcock, age 22, died at the Paintsville Hospital last Thursday, February 24, 1937 following an illness of about two weeks. Mrs. Hitchcock was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elzie Pelphrey and a prominent young mother of Win, this county. Besides her husband, Estill Hitchcock, she is survived by her parents and two small children. Funeral services were held at the home at Win in charge of the Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company and burial in the Blanton Cemetery. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MARCH 4 1937

 
KENNARD, James N.
1893-1937
James N. Kennard, age 43, prominent businessman of Ashland and former Paintsville citizen died at his home there last Thursday afternoon.  Death was due to a heart attack following a severe attack of influenza. Mr. Kennard was connected with the Sandy Valley Grocery Company and was widely known throughout Eastern Kentucky.  He went to Ashland in 1925 from Paintsville and engaged in the Mercantile Business.  He was the democratic nominee for Railroad Commissioner in this district in 1935 and was highly regarded as a businessman and as a citizen. Funeral services were held at the Clyffeside Baptist Church at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon with Rev. Alonzo Wright in charge of the service and burial in the Ashland cemetery. Mr. Kennard was born at Loganville, Morgan County, on July 1, 1893, He was a son of Flem and Martha Lykins Kennard.  His mother died when he was four years old and he grew to young manhood in the home of his uncle Frank Kennard at Logville.  He taught in the public school of Morgan and Magoffin counties and then engaged in the mercantile business at Logville, Lacy and Paintsville.  He became a member of the Elk Fork Regular Baptist Church in May 1919 He was married to Miss Loula Wheeler, daughter of C. W. and Elizabeth Wheeler, June 29, 1916, his widow, two sons, Paul, James three daughters Nettie, Ruie J. and Eula M. all of Ashland survive him.  He is also survived by his father, Flem Kennard, of Logville, three brothers Noah, of Morehead and Ashton and Pierce of Lebanon, Ohio, one sister, Mary Parish, of Glasgow, Ky. On his father's side there are surviving one uncle, Frank Kennard of Logville, and two aunts Mrs. Henry Lowe, Springfield, Ohio, and Celia Cisco, of Ever, Ky,. And on his mother's side two uncles, W. H. Lykins, of Cisco,Ky., and Newton Lykins of Glasgow, Ky. Mrs. Kennard is a sister of H. M., H. H. Sherman, Dola and Dona Wheeler and Mrs. Morris Minix, Jr. and Mrs. P. W. Ramsey of Paintsville. A number of Paintsville relatives and friends attended the funeral and burial at Ashland last Saturday Paintsvilel Herald Thursday 3-4-1937

 
LEWIS, Mrs. Jerry
1937
BARNETTS CREEK
The death angel visited the home of Jerry Lewis and took from them a loving wife and mother, February 22.  Funeral was held from the home.  Burial in the family cemetery near the mouth of Grassy on Barnetts Creek. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 25, 1937

 
MURRAY, Mrs. Jane
1937
AGED WOMAN DIED MONDAY MRS. JANE MURRAY PASSES AT LOWMANSVILLE.
Mrs. Jane Murray, age 78, died at her home at Lowmansville, Monday February 8, following an extended illness from infirmities. Mrs. Murray had been a member of the Georges Creek United Baptist Church for the past 50 years.  She was the widow of the late Samuel Murray, a veteran of the Civil War. Funeral services were held at the Murray home Wednesday in charge of Rev. Guy W. Preston and burial in the family cemetery at Lowmansville. The undertaking department of the Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company was in charge. Mrs. Murray is survived by five sons and one daughter, all residing in the vicinity of Lowmansville.  They are Rhoderick, Albert, Alvin, William and Jesse Murray, and Mrs. Fannie Pennington. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 11, 1937

 
NELSON, General Stewart
1937
G. S. Nelson Died Feb. 14
Father of Local Man Passes in Huntington, W. Va.
Otto Nelson of this city was called to Huntington, W. Va., last week because of the death of his aged father, General Stewart Nelson who died at his home in that city last Saturday afternoon, February 13. He had been ill for about a month and his death was due to a general breakdown because of advanced age. Mr. Stewart was a well known citizen in that section and highly esteemed by his neighbors and friends. He was a member of the Christian Church and a prominent lodge man. Funeral services were conducted at the funeral home of Kingle & Carpenter of Huntington with burial in the family plot in the Rome Cemetery; of Rome, Ohio. Mr. Stewart is survived by four children, Mrs. Myrna Webb, Ashland, Ky.; Jennings Nelson, Huntington, W. Va.; Harry Nelson, Summit, Ky., and Otto Nelson of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 18, 1937

 
PERRY, George C.
1937
Death Claims George C. Perry
Prominent Man Succumbs After 2 Years Illness
George C. Perry, for many years a prominent citizen and business man of Johnson County, died at his home on Second Street in Paintsville. Death came at 2:00 o’clock Wednesday afternoon. Mr. Perry would have been 80 years old in May of this year. Mr. Perry was born in Massachusetts and came to this county when a young man and engaged in the coal mining business and for years was associated with the Rittenhouse Coal Company, the first active coal operation in the county. For many years he was store manager for the company at Williamsport.  He served one term as County Court Clerk and engaged in various business enterprises. Mr. Perry was associated with Oppenheimer & Flax for a number of years and continued with the firm when the elder members of the firm died and the business was reorganized under the name of The N. Flax Company. He suffered a stroke while working for the firm about two years ago and has remained at home since that time. He was a prominent Mason and an active member of the Mayo Memorial Church until he became ill. He raised a large family of boys and girls all of whom are prominent in the social life of this section. Funeral services will be held at the Mayo Memorial Church, Friday afternoon and burial will be made in the Wells-Buckingham Cemetery in Bridgeford. Besides his wife, Mr. Perry is survived by the following children: Mrs. D.H. Daniel, Mrs. Eugene Hager, Sr., Mrs. W.R. Meade, all of Paintsville; Mrs. Bruce Hall of Catlettsburg; Walter C. Perry, Charleston, WV; Albert Perry, Pineville, KY; Charles Perry and George C. Perry, Jr., both of Paintsville.  He is also survived by a number of grandchildren. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEBRUARY 25, 1937

 
PIGG, Dennie
1880-1937
Prominent Merchant Victim of Paralytic Stroke
Dennie Pigg, prominent merchant and farmer of Boons Camp for many years, who had been conducting a general store at Davisport, Martin County, for the past three years, died Thursday afternoon after a five weeks illness.  He suffered a slight paralytic stroke December 31 and a second stroke a week later which resulted in his death. Mr. Pigg was a native of Lawrence county, having been born at Busseyvile, September 19, 1880. He came to Johnson county shortly after the turn of the century and in 1904 married to Miss Verlie Walters, of Boons Camp.  Mr. Pigg first engaged in the mercantile business at Whitehouse some twenty years ago.  Later he and R. W. Blankenship operated a store at Boons Camp where Mr. Pigg still owned a farm at the time of his death. Burial services were held at Boons Camp at the Little Friendship United Baptist Church which Mr. Pigg helped to construct several years ago.  Services were conducted by ministers Lafe Preston, John W. Butcher, Winfrey Meek and Hermie Davis.  Burial was in the cemetery overlooking Mr. Pigg’s old home on the left fork of Greasy Creek. The body was prepared for burial by J.A. Jones, of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Mr. Pigg was one of the county’s finest citizens and was liked by everyone who knew him.  He had been a hard worker all his life and while conducting a general store he often engaged in sawmilling. He could not see his neighbors go hungry and when the depression came and they were out of work he let out merchandise and groceries on credit to persons who were unable to pay until he almost broke himself up. Neighbors said there never lived a man with a kinder heart.  He was willing and anxious at all times to aid others, even to the extent of neglecting his own affairs. Mr. Pigg is survived by his wife, Mrs. Verlie Walters Pigg, Davisport; daughters, Mrs. Parker West, Conley, Ky; Mrs. Imogene Lewis, Davisport, Ky; Mrs. Henry Arrowood and Miss Ivory Pigg, Paintsville; Miss Jennie Lee Pigg, Davisport; sons Chester Pigg, Paintsville; and Oliver, Glenn and Otis Pigg, Davisport; brother, Andrew Pigg, Clinton, Ind.; half brothers Willie Pigg, Paintsville, and Worthy Pigg, Ashland; sisters, Mrs. W.V. Diamond, Lucasville, Ohio; Mrs. Hugh Gambill, Blaine, Ky and Mrs. Lindsay Hayes, Ashland. Paintsville Herald Thursday Feb. 11, 1937

 
PRESTON, Mary
1937
Mrs. Preston Died Feb. 4
Well Known Woman Passes After Short Illness.
Mrs. Mary Preston, nearly 80 years of age, died at the home of her son J. L. Preston at Wittensville last Thursday evening at 8 O’clock.  She had been in good health until three months ago when she suffered a general breakdown due to advanced age. Mrs. Preston was one of the best known Christian women of the county and a member of a prominent family.  She was a consecrated Christian and devoted to her church and family.  She had been a member of the United Baptist Church for the past sixty-five years and was a member of Locust Grove Church at Sitka at the time of her death. She was the mother of four sons, all of whom have been prominent in the official life of Paintsville and Johnson County. She was the widow of the late Dr. J. M. Preston who served one term as Circuit Court Clerk of this county and for many years a prominent physician.  Her husband preceded her in death 36 years ago. Funeral services were held at the home of her son J. L. Preston Saturday morning and were in charge of Rev. F. F. Riggsby of Paintsville, Rev. Roscoe Lemaster of Hager Hill, and Rev. Rhodes Preston of Barnetts Creek.  Burial followed in the home cemetery on the Preston farm at Wittensville.  A large number of relatives and friends of the family attended the funeral and burial. Mrs. Preston is survived by four sons, Dr. J. R. Preston of Weleetka, Oklahoma; Dr. T. R. Preston of Lowmansville, Ky.; Rev. Guy W. and J. L. Preston of Paintsville.  Also one daughter, Mrs. Beulah DeMoss of Weleetka, Okla.  Another daughter, Mrs. Sipora VanHoose, died 14 months ago. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-11-1937

 
STAMBAUGH, Lizzie
1937
Mrs. Stambaugh and  Daughter-in-Law Buried Here
Two Johnson County women residing at Ashland and Pine Creek, Ohio, respectively, died  Monday and the bodies brought to this county for burial. Mrs. Nancy Stambaugh, age 67, widow of the late Lawrence Stambaugh died Monday  night at the home of her son Ed Stambaugh in Ashland. She was born in this county the daughter of Lancy and Polly Hamilton Salyer. Funeral services were held at Sitka Wednesday and burial in the Stambaugh Cemetery  there. She is survived by five sons, Roy of this county, Ed, Willie, and Arnold of Ashland, and  Dallas Stambaugh of Ironton, Ohio; also one daughter, Mrs. Fayne Salyer of Johnson County. Mrs. Lizzie Stambaugh, age 30, wife of Dallas Stambaugh, Pine Creek, Ohio, and daughter- in-law of Mrs. Nancy Stambaugh, died Monday night after an illness of one day.  Death  occurred at her home at Pine Creek near Ironton, Ohio. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Larza Salyer and was born in this county. Funeral services were held at Sitka with burial in the Stambaugh Cemetery at 2:30 Thursday. She is survived by her husband and three sons, and numerous relatives in this county.  Paintsville Herald Thursday February 11, 1937

 
STAMBAUGH, Nancy (Salyer)
1937
Mrs. Stambaugh and  Daughter-in-Law Buried Here
Two Johnson County women residing at Ashland and Pine Creek, Ohio, respectively, died  Monday and the bodies brought to this county for burial. Mrs. Nancy Stambaugh, age 67, widow of the late Lawrence Stambaugh died Monday  night at the home of her son Ed Stambaugh in Ashland. She was born in this county the daughter of Lancy and Polly Hamilton Salyer. Funeral services were held at Sitka Wednesday and burial in the Stambaugh Cemetery  there. She is survived by five sons, Roy of this county, Ed, Willie, and Arnold of Ashland, and  Dallas Stambaugh of Ironton, Ohio; also one daughter, Mrs. Fayne Salyer of Johnson County. Mrs. Lizzie Stambaugh, age 30, wife of Dallas Stambaugh, Pine Creek, Ohio, and daughter- in-law of Mrs. Nancy Stambaugh, died Monday night after an illness of one day.  Death  occurred at her home at Pine Creek near Ironton, Ohio. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Larza Salyer and was born in this county. Funeral services were held at Sitka with burial in the Stambaugh Cemetery at 2:30 Thursday. She is survived by her husband and three sons, and numerous relatives in this county.  Paintsville Herald Thursday February 11, 1937

 
VANHOOSE, James H.
1937
J. H. VANHOOSE PASSES IN MO. FORMER RESIDENT OF THIS SECTION DIED FEBRUARY 14.
James H. Vanhoose, brother of Mrs. Charley Roberts and uncle of F. Daniel of Paintsville, died Sunday, February 14, 1937, at his home in Webb City, Mo., from influenza and pneumonia, according to word received Tuesday by Mr. Daniel.  Mr. Vanhoose was a native of this section and left here some forty-five years ago.  He was 67 years old. Mr. Vanhoose was a brother of the late Brooks Vanhoose who was slain three years ago when kidnappers attempted to take him from his Missouri home.  The kidnappers were rounded up, five of them, and now are serving life sentences in prison. James Vanhoose started his career in Webb City in the mining industry and soon had accumulated a small fortune.  He then entered the money lending business and later was interested in the Webb City National Bank, where he was a director at the time of his death.  A son of Mr Vanhoose, LeRoy Vanhoose, is president of the Webb City Bank.  Another son, Earl Vanhoose of Webb City survives. Other survivors besides Mrs. Roberts and his sons are, Mrs. B. D. Daniel, Waverly, O.; Malenth Vanhoose and Mrs. Lizzie Spencer of Webb City; Lon Vanhoose, Lowmansville and Harve Vanhoose of Wilbur, Ky., and Mrs. Sallie Travis, of Ashland. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 18, 1937

 
WARD, John
1937
Aged Van Lear Man Died Monday
John Ward, aged Van Lear man, died at the home of his son William Ward at that place Monday February 8, after a long illness from heart trouble.  Mr. Ward was in his 79th year and was known as a good citizen.  He formerly lived in Ohio but returned a few years ago to spend his declining years with his son.  His wife preceded him in death several years ago. Funeral services and burial were held Thursday at Van Lear in charge of the Mountain Furniture & Hardware Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-11-1937

 
WILLIAMS, Lizzie (McKenzie)
1937
MRS. WILLIAMS DIED IN OHIO FORMER COUNTY CITIZEN DIED AT NEW BOSTON FEB. 26
Mrs. Lizzie Williams, age 71 years, died at her home at New Boston, Ohio, February 26.  Mrs. Williams was a native of this county where she leaves numerous relatives.  She was born in Johnson county, December 19, 1865, and was the daughter of Hiram and Rachel McKenzie.  She was twice married.  Her first marriage was to John M. Lemaster of Barnetts Creek, April 28, 1889. Mr. Lemaster died in 1894.  Her second marriage was to William J. Williams, of Lacy, Magoffin County, who died in 1917. Mrs. Williams was a devout Christian woman and a member of the United Baptist Church at Beaver Valley, Ohio. Funeral services were held at Beaver Valley Church, Sunday, Febraury 28, in charge of Rev. Sandy Phillips and Rev. Alonzo Wright.  Burial in the Cordle Cemetery on Beaver Creek. She is survived by six children Milton LeMaster, Barnetts Creek; Mrs. Martha Meade, Staffordsville; W. K. Williams, Lacy; Walter Williams, Lucasville, O.; John L. Williams, New Boston, O.; Allan J. Williams, Wheelersburg, Ohio. Three sisters, Mrs. Lydia Clark, Williamsport; Mrs. Martha Rice, olVga; Mrs. Rose Blanton, Mt. Vernon, Ohio.  One half sister Lara McKenzie and three half brothers, Floyd, John and Loranza McKenzie of Torchlight; and 34 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 11, 1937

 
WITTEN, Lando
1937
Lando Witten of Oil Springs Victim of Bright’s disease
Lando Witten, age 59 years, died at the home of his mother, Mrs. Amanda Witten, at Oil Springs, Saturday, February 6, following an illness of several months from Bright’s disease. Mr. Witten was never married and lived with his parents. He was the son of George W. and Amanda Short Witten, and since the death of his father in 1920, had lived with his mother. Mr. Witten was a well known teacher in the rural schools of Johnson County and had taught twenty-four consecutive schools in various parts of the county. He was one of the county’s very best citizens and had long been a member of the Christian Church. Funeral services were held Monday at the Witten home at Oil Springs in charge in Rev. H.H. Conley and others. Burial in the family cemetery at Oil Springs. Besides his aged mother he is survived by three sisters, Mrs. Ed Dixon and Stella and Nova at home. In addition to his immediate family he is survived by a large number of relatives. He was probably related to as many people as any man in Johnson County. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the undertaking department of the Mountain Furniture Company. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEBRUARY 11, 1937

 
WITTEN, Lella
1937
Miss Witten Dies At Barnett’s Creek
Miss Lella Witten, age 59, died at 11 o’clock Saturday night, February 5, at the home of a niece, Mrs. Mollie Blair on Barnett’s Creek, after an illness of three months. She was a daughter of William P. and Mary J. Dixon Witten of Oil Springs who preceded her in death several years ago. She is survived by one sister, Mrs. Mary Van Hoose of Maloneton, KY, and several nephews and nieces. She was a sister of the late Pitt Witten of Oil Springs. The funeral was conducted at the house with Rev. Thurman Blair of the United Baptist Church officiating. Prater and Patrick Funeral Home at Salyersville had charge of the funeral. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEBRUARY 10, 1937
  
I am writing in regards to Lella Mae Witten.  I ran across her name as she is sister to my GG Grandmother Rebecca Witten Harmon- wife of Adam Harmon (died 1950) Lella's Death Certificate indicates she died Feb 5, 1938.  I do know that Rebecca Witten died in 12/5/1937.  I guess I am wondering the accuracy of the obit.   I have never been able to find an obituary or headstone or anything for her though.  Thanks for your time.
Leigh Ann Harmon Johnson ( GGgrandchild of Adam and Rebecca Harmon)   Aug.12 2013
 




MARCH - 1937
BURING, Paul S.
1937
PAUL S. BURING  DIES FROM INJURIES
Paul S.Buring, 15, former CCC enrollee, who was injured in the  C. & O. yards at Paintsville Thursday morning,  died from his injuries at the Paintsville Hospital Thursday night. The youth’s father,  John A. Buring of Covington , Ky. was called and reached his bedside a short time before he died. The boy was penniless and remained at the C. & O. depot 7 hours before arrangements could be made to remove him to a hospital. Through the goodness of heart of Mrs. E.J. Evans and Harry LaViers, the youth was given every care possible. They-had the injured boy taken to the hospital and his father given food and attention while in Paintsville. The body was prepared for burial and given a casket free by the Paintsville Furniture Co.,and shipped to Covington for burial Friday. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MARCH 25, 1937
 
CASTLE, Thomas F.
1937
DEATH CLAIMS NIPPA CITIZEN
Thomas F. Castle Succumbs After Long Illness Thomas F. Castle, 63 years old, died at his home at Nippa, this county, Thursday, March 25. Mr. Castle had been in ill health for several years and his death was not unexpected. Mr. Castle was a prominent citizen of his community and held in the highest esteem by his neighbors and friends.  He was a member of a prominent Johnson County family, and a son of the late Jefferson Castle.  He was a brother of Dr. W.R. Castle, of Paintsville. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church in charge of Rev. Millard VanHoose. Burial in the family cemetery near the home. The Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company directed the funeral and burial.  Besides his wife he is survived by a number of children and many other relatives and friends throughout the county. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 1, 1937
 
COMMODORE, Sam
1937
Italian Worker Drops Dead
Sam Commodore, a native of Italy dropped dead from a heart attack at the home of Kendall Williams on Cantrells Creek last Monday. Commodore was a stone mason by trade and was in charge of WPA projects at Cantrell's Creek when stricken. He had traveled extensively doing stone work in the United States. His wife resides in Italy. He has two sons residing at Jackson, Kentucky. The body was prepared for burial by Guy W. Preston of the Mountain Hardware and Furniture Company and shipped to Jackson Tuesday where burial was made. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MARCH 11 1937
 
CONLEY, Robert Wickliff
1937
FORMER CITIZEN DIED AT RUSSELL
Robert Wickliff Conley, age 68, died last Thursday morning, at the home of his daughter Mrs. Luther Holbrook, near Russell, Kentucky. He was a former resident of this section. Funeral services were conducted Sunday morning at the Clyffeside Baptist Church and burial in the Catlettsburg cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 25, 1937

DANIEL, Jesse H.
1937
Jesse H. Daniel Died At Ashland
Jesse Harmon Daniel, well known to many Johnson County people, died at his home at Ashland last Friday, March 19. The body was shipped to White House for burial in the Daniel cemetery there.  Funeral services were held at the River United Baptist Church, Sunday afternoon, Rev. David Sturgill officiating. Note: According to the transcription by Harry Holbrook, of the Wyatt Daniel Cemetery on Rt 581, below River, KY, Jesse Harmon Daniel is buried there. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 25, 1937
 
DAVIS, Lorenzo
1937
LORENZO DAVIS,47, DIED AT ASHLAND
Lorenzo Davis, 47, Princess, Ky. died  Friday night at eleven o’clock after an illness of three weeks.  Death came at the home of his brother, Dr. A.M. Davis, 2816 Winchester Avenue, Ashland. He was a farmer and a carpenter. Mr. Davis was born at  Davisville, Johnson County, a son of William C. and  Amanda Chandler Davis, also natives of Davisville. Funeral services were held at 2:30 Sunday with Rev. W.K. Wood officiating. Interment in the Rose Hill Burial Park. He leaves hid widow, Mrs. Lida Davis,Princess; two sons, Damon, at home, and Columbus, of Cannonsburg, Ky.; and one brother, Dr. A.M. Davis, of Ashland. The body remained at the home of his brother  until 1:15 p.m.  Sunday when it was taken to the church to lie in state one hour until time for the services. The following relatives from Paintsville and Johnson County who attended the funeral Sunday afternoon were:  Mr. and  Mrs. John H. Chandler, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Chandler, Mr. and Mrs. S. M. Chandler, Lonnie Greene, Charlie Davis, all  of Paintsville;  Mr. and Mrs. Garfield  Chandler, Arthur Chandler, Mr. and  Mrs. Willie Greene, of  Chandlersville. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MAR.  11     1937
 
FAIRCHILD, Clarinda
1937
WEST VAN LEAR WOMAN DIED MARCH 16
Clarinda Fairchild, age 27, died a the home of her sister, Mrs. Jack Blanton, at West Van Lear, on Tuesday, March 16.  She was the daughter of John Fairchild who resides on Jennies Creek, and a sister of Walter Fairchild of West Van Lear. Funeral services were held on Thursday, March 18, in charge of Rev. Millard VanHoose.  Burial on Lick Fork of Jennies Creek, in charge of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 25, 1937
 
GUNNING, Margaret (Phillis)
1937
MRS. GUNNING DIED SUNDAY
Van Lear Woman Succumbs After Operation. Mrs. Robert Gunning prominent woman of Van Lear, died at the Paintsville Hospital early last Sunday morning after a few days illness.  Mrs. Gunning had undergone an operation for a throat trouble on Wednesday before her death.  It was thought that she was recovering nicely when an infection developed and she died suddenly. Mrs. Gunning came to Van Lear from Greenup County several years ago where she has since resided.  She had many warm friends in Paintsville as well as Van Lear. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the home of Mr. And Mrs. Arthur Phillis in Paintsville.  Dr. W. I. Canter, of Mayo Memorial Church, charge of the services. Burial in the Wells Buckingham Cemetery in Bridgford Addition.   The undertaking department of  thePaintsville Furniture Company directed the funeral and burial. Besides her husband she is survived by one son, one sister, Mrs. Wm. Gunning, of Jenkins, Ky., and two brothers, Arthur Phillis, of Paintsville, and Hugh Phillis, of Piqua, Ohio. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-25-1937
 
HARMON, Lizzie
1937
Lizzie Harmon Oil Springs woman died here last week.
Miss Lizzie Harmon, 48, died last week at the Paintsville hospital of measles, contracted as she was convalescing from an operation. She was the daughter of the late Wallace Harmon and had made her home for the past several years with her brother, Charlie Harmon near Oil Springs. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon from the United Baptist church, of which she was a member, interment in the Blue Grass cemetery at Salyersville. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-18-1937
 
HOWELL, Sallie (Robinson)
1890-1937
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. HOWELL
East Point, Ky. –
Mrs. Sallie Howell, wife of Lawton Howell, was born November 10, 1890, age 46 years, died March 10, 1937.  She was married to Lawton Howell in 1909 and to this union was born three children Conway, Phillip and Francis.  Francis having preceded her in death four months ago.  She leaves behind of her immediate family, husband and two boys and one little granddaughter to mourn their loss, in addition two sisters and one brother, Mrs. Jim Blanton, Mrs. Lucy McNeer and Hasdore Robinson and many friends who will miss her and mourn her death. There was a large crowd present at her funeral and burial and Rev. C. S. Honeycutt was in charge of the service.  There were also many beautiful floral offerings. She was laid to rest in the Webb Cemetery just below East Point. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday March 18, 1937
 
LEWIS, Martha
1937
MRS. MARTHA LEWIS DIED HERE MONDAY
Mrs. Martha Lewis, 53 years old, died at the Paintsville Hospital Monday afternoon, after a illness of several months. Funeral services were held from the home in Bridgford Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock.  Burial at Two Mile on Greasy Creek. Mrs. Lewis is survived by her husband H. C. Lewis, one daughter and four sons. Burial services in charge of The Paintsville Furniture Co. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 25, 1937
 
MARTIN, Lora Ann (Miller)
1837-1937
Mrs. Martin, 69, Died Saturday
Mrs. Lora Ann Martin, age 69, died at the home of her daughter Mrs. Forest LeMaster near Stafforsville Saturday afternoon, after an illness of several months. She was brought to the Paintsville Hospital for treatment where she spent two weeks and was taken to the LeMaster home two weeks ago. Funeral services were held at the LeMaster home, Monday afternoon in charge of  Rev. W. I. Canter, pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church. Music by Miss Gertrude Patrick, Mrs. E. T. Drinkard, Mrs. Claude Buckingham. and Miss Mary Amanda Hayslett. Burial in the LeMaster cemetery near Stafforsville. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Forest LeMaster, three sons. The Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of the burial. Paintsville Herald 3-25-1937
 
 OBITUARY MRS. LORA ANN MARTIN Mrs. Lora Ann Martin, daughter of Daniel and Sarah Miller was born at Pleasantville, Ind.,  February 18, 1867 and departed this life March 20, 1927, age 70 years and 1 month. On March 13th 1883 she was united in marriage to Samuel L Martin and to this union  was born four children, Oscar Martin, Latonia, Ky., C. W. Martin, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Elmer Martin, Evansville, Ind., and Mrs. Forest Lemaster, Staffordsville, Ky.. Mrs. Martin had made her home with her daughter at Staffordsville for the past year and had made many friends who mourn at her passing, Mrs. Martin is also survived by two brothers, Will and  Barnett Miller, both of Indianapolis, Ind.. She was converted in the Methodist Church at age 17 and had since lived a devoted Christian life. Her mother love and devotion to her children was beautiful beyond words and will be cherished in the treasure of memories throughout the years. Often as we watched her there From our lips there fell this prayer: "God give us the pain to bear! Let us suffer in her place, Take the anguish from her face Soothe her with thy Holy Grace." Painstville Herald 4-1-1937
 
MCCARTY, G. H.
1937
Two Aged Citizens Died Last Week
Vinson Sagraves, age 55, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Courtney Holbrook, at Staffordsville Friday, March 19.  He had been in ill health for several months.  Funeral services held at the old home at Red Bush, Monday, March 22.  Burial in the family cemetery near the home.  He is survived by a wife and a number of children. G. H. McCarty age 60, died at his home at Manilla Monday, March 22, after a year’s illness.  He was one of the county’s best citizens.  Funeral services held from the home in charge of Rev. Lonza Reed and Rev. McCarty.  He is survived by a wife and several children. The above burials were in charge of the Mountain Furniture & Hardware Company of Paintsville. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday April 1, 1937
 
MILLS, Laura B. (Cline)
1937
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. MILLS, 68
Mrs. Laura B. Mills, age 68, a prominent woman of Tomahawk, Martin County, Kentucky, died at her home at 9 o’clock, Friday night, March 19, following a few days illness.She had belonged to the United Baptist Church at the Old Sulphur Springs Church for the past 45 years, and was the daughter of Jacob Cline who died several years ago. She is survived by her husband and 10 children. She is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. Emma Mollett, Boones Camp, Ky., and Mrs. Liza Williamson, Tomahawk, Ky., and one brother Garner Cline, Stidham, Ky. Funeral services were held Sunday at the home in charge of Rev. Aaron Stepp and Rev. A. J. Baldridge. Burial in the family lot Sunday evening at 2 o’clock. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY APR. 1 1937
 
MOORE, Chester
1937
DEATH CLAIMS TWO CCC BOYS
Elva Penley and Chester Moore Died In Past Week Elva Penley, age 25, died at the Paintsville Hospital last Friday evening, March 5, 1937, after an illness of about two weeks.  His death was attributed to Erysipelas. Young Penley was a member of Shawnee Camp, Citizen Conservation Corps, located at Paintsville, and was a son of John Penley of Southside Addition to Paintsville.  Mr. Penley was a member of the CCC boys from the local camp who did flood relief work at Ashland and was stricken after returning to Paintsville.  He is survived by his aged father and a number of brothers and sisters. Chester Moore, age 19, a member of the CCC Camp in Pike County also died at the Methodist Hospital at Pikeville last Saturday, March 6, 1937, after a short illness following an attack of the flu.  Moore was a native of Rowan County and the body was shipped to Christy, Rowan County for burial. Guy W. Preston, undertaker for he Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company of Paintsville had charge of embalming both bodies of the dead youths.  The Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company have the contract for funeral and ambulance service in this section for all CCC camps. Embalmers for this service requires a rigid examination from the Federal Government, Mr. Preston said, which he was able to pass satisfactorily. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-11-1937
 
O'BRYAN, Ed
1937
Ed O’Bryan, age 51, a well known citizen of the county died at his home on Davis Branch, near Paintsville, at 6 o’clock last Thursday morning, March18, following a few days illness. He contracted flu which later developed into pneumonia and lived only a short time.Mr. O’Bryan was a good citizen and an industrious man, and his death will be regretted by many.He was a son of Clark O’Bryan who died in Paintsville a few months ago.He is survived by his wife and six children. He is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. Millard Fraley and Mrs. Wm. Burgess of Paintsville and one brother, Fred O’Bryan of Pike County.Funeral services were held Sunday at the Freewill Baptist Church in charge of Rev. Millard Van Hoose, Rev. F.S. Van Hoose and Rev. H.B. Conley. Burial in the family lot in the Paintsville Cemetery in charge of The Paintsville Furniture Co. PAINTVILLE HERALD THUSDAY MARCH 25 1937
 
PENLEY, Elva
1937
DEATH CLAIMS TWO CCC BOYS
Elva Penley and Chester Moore Died In Past Week Elva Penley, age 25, died at the Paintsville Hospital last Friday evening, March 5, 1937, after an illness of about two weeks.  His death was attributed to Erysipelas. Young Penley was a member of Shawnee Camp, Citizen Conservation Corps, located at Paintsville, and was a son of John Penley of Southside Addition to Paintsville.  Mr. Penley was a member of the CCC boys from the local camp who did flood relief work at Ashland and was stricken after returning to Paintsville.  He is survived by his aged father and a number of brothers and sisters. Chester Moore, age 19, a member of the CCC Camp in pike County also died at he Methodist Hospital at Pikeville last Saturday, March 6, 1937, after a short illness following an attack of eh flu.  Moore was a native of Rowan County and the body was shipped to Christy, Rowan County for burial. Guy W. Preston, undertaker for he Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company of Paintsville had charge of embalming both bodies of the dead youths.  The Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company have the contract for funeral and ambulance service in this section for all CCC camps. Embalmers for this service requires a rigid examination from the Federal Government, Mr. Preston said, which he was able to pass satisfactorily. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-11-1937
 
ROBERTS, Bert "Pat"
1896-1937
DEATH CLAIMS WAR VETERAN ‘PAT’ ROBERTS, AGE 41,
SUCCUMBS TO HEART ATTACK.
Bert Roberts, known to hundreds of Paintsville people as “Pat,” died at his home in West Paintsville early Sunday morning after a short illness from a heart attack.  Local physicians diagnosed the case as leakage of the heart from which he had suffered since his discharge from the army at the close of the World War.  He was a member of Johnson County Post No. 117 of the American Legion. Mr. Roberts was a son of the late T. J. Roberts who died in Paintsville about two years ago.  He was the youngest member of the family and was born May 21, 1896, and would have been 41 years old in May. He was twice married.  His first marriage was to Miss Zona Lemaster.  His second marriage was to Miss Julia Hood, who survives.  He is also survived by one son and one daughter, Norman Roberts, age 15, by his first marriage, and Katherine Langley Roberts, age 8, by his second marriage.  He is also survived by two brothers, Charlie Roberts and Arville Roberts, both of Paintsville, and one sister, Mrs. Beulah Howe, of Portsmouth, Ohio.  One sister, Mrs. Nellie Conley, and three brothers have preceded him in death. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Freewill Baptist Church.  Rev. H. B. Conley was in charge of the services. Burial in the Roberts family lot in the old city cemetery. As an ex- service man the deceased was accorded the honors of a military burial, with members of the local Post of the American Legion in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 18, 1937
 
SAGRAVES, Vinson
1937
Two Aged Citizens Died Last Week
Vinson Sagraves, age 55, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Courtney Holbrook, at Staffordsville Friday, March 19.  He had been in ill health for several months.  Funeral services held at the old home at Red Bush, Monday, March 22.  Burial in the family cemetery near the home.  He is survived by a wife and a number of children. G. H. McCarty age 60, died at his home at Manilla Monday, March 22, after a year’s illness.  He was one of the county’s best citizens.  Funeral services held from the home in charge of Rev. Lonza Reed and Rev. McCarty.  He is survived by a wife and several children. The above burials were in charge of the Mountain Furniture & Hardware Company of Paintsville. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday April 1, 1937
 
SPEARS, Rosa (Clark)
1867-1937
Rosa Spears b.Nov 1867 Johnson Co,Ky died 29 Mar 1937 Penna.Cem
Spouse: Alex Spears
Parents: Samuel Clark and Susan Wells b.Odds, Johnson Co,Ky. [Internet data & info]

STAGGS, Banner
1937
BANNER STAGGS DIED TUESDAY
Banner Staggs, age about 45, died at the Paintsville Hospital Tuesday.  His death was the result of complications following an attack of flue and pneumonia.  He had been in ill health since last Christmas. Mr. Staggs resided at Thealka, and was well known in Paintsville and vicinity. Funeral services were held Thursday at the home in Greentown with burial in the old Mont Preston cemetery on the farm of W. J. Richmond in King Addition near Paintsville. The Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company had charge of the funeral and burial.  He is survived by his wife.  He had no children. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 11, 1937
 
WHEELER, T. V.
1937
DEATH CLAIMS DR. WHEELER
Dr. T.V. Wheeler, former resident of Johnson County, died at his home at Ashland Wednesday, it was reported here this week.  He had been ill for several weeks suffering from a complication of diseases.  Dr. Wheeler had many relatives and friends in this section who will regret to learn of his passing. He was a son of Ben R. Wheeler of Flat Gap. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 8, 1937
 
WITTEN, Robert Jr.
1937
LOCAL MAN GUN VICTIM
Robert Witten Accidentally Killed At Wayland Robert Witten, Jr., 27, shot and killed himself at his home at Wayland, KY, at 12:30 a.m. last Monday morning. The shot was fired accidentally, it was said, while he was toying with a pistol, a ball from a heavy caliber revolver entered under the chin and pass out the back of the head. Death was instantaneous. The shooting occurred while Mr. Witten sat in his home talking to his mother and wife. Mr. Witten was a member of the Wayland police force where he had served for more than a year as a policeman. He was a former resident of Johnson County and was a son of Robert Witten, Sr. who died at Offutt a few years ago. Funeral services were held at 7:30 Tuesday evening at the Wayland M.F. Church in charge of Rev. Earl Howard. The body was brought to the old home at Offutt Wednesday for burial. Funeral and burial were in charge by G.D. Ryan of Ryan’s Funeral Home of Wayland. Mr. Witten is survived by his mother, a wife and three children. He is also survived by five brothers and two sisters. They are Denzie, Herschel, Clifford and Jay Witten, all of Wayland, and Orville Witten of Offutt: Mrs. Stewart Goble and Mrs. Raymond Meade of Wayland. Mr. Witten was a popular citizen and was known as a good officer. He has many relatives and friends in Johnson County who ? unfortunate accident ? sympathize with the family. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MARCH 4, 1937
 
WOOD, Joe Daniel
1937-1937
JOE DANIEL WOOD INFANT CHILD OF LOCAL COUPLE DIED MARCH 1
Joe Daniel Wood, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. John Wood, of East Paintsville died at their home March 1 1937. The child died one day after birth, the undertaking department of the Mountains Furniture and Hardware Company reported this week. Paintvsille Herald Thursday Mar.11 1937




APRIL - 1937
   
ADAMS, Juliana (Murphy)
1937
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. ADAMS LOCAL WOMAN
SUCCUMBS AFTER OPERATION.
Mrs. Garrett Adams, of West Paintsville, died at the Paintsville Hospital last Thursday. Mrs. Adams had been in ill health for some time and submitted to a serious operation from which she never recovered. She died on Friday following the operation. Mrs. Adams was 38 years old and was one of Paintsville’s best women. She was the mother of five children and was formerly Miss Juliana Murphy, daughter of the late Robert and Mary Jane Murphy. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Mayo Memorial Church, in charge of the pastor, Dr. W.I. Canter. Burial in the family lot in the Mayo Cemetery. Besides her husband, Garrett Adams, who is a well known local contractor, she is survived by her mother, Mrs. Mary Jane Murphy, one brother, Irvin Murphy, and one sister, Mrs. Worth McFaddin, all of Paintsville.  She is also survived by the following children: Mrs. Harvey Hensley, Mary Ruth, Jesse and Robert Adams at home, and Garrett Adams, Jr., who is a soldier in the U.S. Army stationed at Fort Knox, Ky. The Paintsville Furniture Company directed the funeral and burial. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday April 22, 1937

 
BARRS, George
1937
MINER KILLED SATURDAY GEORGE BARRS FATALLY SHOT AT WHEEL-WRIGHT
A dispute alleged to have arisen over the renting of a house resulted in the slaying of one man at Wheelwright late Saturday, April 3, 1937, and to the holding another on bond to answer to a charge of murder. The dead man is George Barrs, miner the inland Steel Company, who died almost instantly when three bullets were pumped into his body allegedly by Will Branham, aged merchant, who is at liberty on bond. According to information received from Floyd county mining center, the victim of the altercation was living in a house owned by Branham who is reported to have ordered him to evacuate the property. Two of the bullets penetrated the left side of Barr’s body, coming out the right side and passing completely through the right arm. The third shot took effect in the left hip. Commonwealth attorney O. C. Hall, of Prestonsburg, was in Pikeville Sunday conducting an investigation in the shooting after Barr’s body was taken there to be prepared for burial. Barrs formerly worked at Van Lear as a miner for several years before going to Wheelwright. The body was brought to Van Lear for funeral and burial Monday. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY APRIL 8, 1937

 
BLAIR, Alonzo, Jr.
1937
65-Year-Old Saloon Man Charged With Killing
Alonzo Blair, Jr., a youth of about 20, was shot and instantly killed in front of the Eagle's Nest, a whiskey and beer dispensary at Van Lear Junction at 9:15 last Saturday night.  Jimmie Howard, 65 years old and proprietor of the Eagle's Nest was arrested charged with the crime. According to information the Blair youth and another youth were playing on the sidewalk and in the scuffle accidentally broke a plate glass window.  A dispute arose between Howard and the youth, it is said, which resulted in the shooting. An inquest was held by Magistrate Buckingham which resulted in a verdict that Blair came to his death by pistol wounds, inflicted by Howard. An examining trial was held before Judge H. B. Conley Tuesday and Howard was held to the action of the grand jury without bond. Howard was arrested shortly after the killing by Sheriff Adams and Constable Manuel Fitzpatrick.  The officers said that Howard was found in the attic of his home but did not resist arrest. Young Blair was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Alonzo Blair of West Van Lear and a member of a large and prominent family.  Much feeling has been caused over the killing of the youth. Howard will probably be tried at the special term of Circuit Court which has been called for April 26. Funeral services for the slain youth were held Sunday afternoon and burial in the family cemetery near the home. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 15, 1937

 
COLVIN, Isabell
1937
THEALKA WOMAN DIED SATURDAY
Mrs. Isabell Colvin, age 38 years, died at her home at Thealka last Saturday after a long illness. Funeral services held at the home Sunday. Burial at Thealka. She is survived by several children. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 29, 1937

 
DEPMPSTER, W. J.
1937
W. J. Dempster Died Saturday
Word has been received here that W. J. Dempster died last Saturday afternoon at Mayo Bros. Clinic, Rochester, Minn., where he had been a patient for the past two years. Mr. Dempster and family were natives of Knoxville, Tenn., and are well known here where they have many friends. Mr. and Mrs. Dempster and daughter, Elizabeth, spent more than a year in Paintsville where Mr. Dempster had a contract for building a section of the Garrett Highway. Funeral and burial at Knoxville, Tenn. Monday. Painstville Herald Thursday 4-8-1937

 
HITCHCOCK, Allie
1937
Oil Springs Woman Died Last Friday
Mrs. Allie Hitchcock, age about 63, died at her home at Oil Springs Friday. Mrs. Hitchcock was a highly respected woman of that community and had long been a member of the United Baptist Church. She is survived by three sons and one daughter in addition to many relatives and friends. Funeral and burial services held at Oil Springs Sunday afternoon in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY APRIL 11 1937

 
HUFFMAN, W. S. A. (SHERL)
1937
FATHER OF LOCAL MAN DIED LAST THURSDAY
W. S. A. (Sherl) Huffman, 70 years old, died at his home at Heralds Branch in Pike County last Thursday night.  His death was attributed to cerebral hemorrhage, although he had suffered from Brights disease for several years.   He was a native of Missouri but had lived in Pike county nearly all his life. He was the father of W. D. Huffman of Paintsville. Besides Mr. Huffman he is survived by three other sons and five daughters, also his widow, Francis Tibbs Huffman. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday April 15, 1937

 
HUGHES, William
1937
LOCAL MAN SUCCUMBS AFTER ILLNESS OF SEVERAL MONTHS
William Hughes, 57 years old, died at his home on Preston Street in Paintsville last Saturday after an illness of several months.  He had been chief electrician for the Blue Diamond Coal Company, near Wayland for the past year.  When he became ill he was moved to a hospital in Hazard where he was confined for nine months.  He was brought back to his home here about three weeks ago. Funeral services were held at the home of the Rev. J. R. Preston at Mingo, Sunday afternoon and were in charge of Rev. Preston and Rev. Castle.  Burial was in the Preston Cemetery there. He is survived by his widow, three daughters; Mrs. Russell Walker, Mrs. Vencil Pelphrey of Paintsville and Ruth Hughes who is at home.  Six sons Dennis, Henry, Clifford, Howard, Richard and Norman, also survive. Mr. Hughes was widely known in this section.  For years he was the chief electrician for the North East Coal Company.  He leaves a wide circle of friends who join with his family in mourning his passing. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday May 3, 1937

 
JACKSON, Clarence
1937
Denver Youth Is Train Victim
Clarence Jackson, age 19, was instantly killed near his home at Denver last Friday. The youth was riding a freight train on the Jennies Creek branch of the C. & O. Railway. The car on which young Jackson was riding was derailed and the youth was crushed to death between the cars. Funeral services were held from the home of his uncle Ben Saylor at Denver Saturday. Burial near the home. The Mountain Furniture & Hardware Company directed the funeral and burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-8-1937

 
MAY, Raleigh B.
1937
RALEIGH B. MAY SUCCUMBS TO PNEUMONIA RALEIGH B. MAY, AGE 20,
DIES AFTER SHORT ILLNESS
Raleigh B. May, age 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. David May of this city, died at the Paintsville Hospital Thursday morning, April 8.  His death was due to a short illness of pneumonia. Young May was a young man of exceptional character and habits, and his death came as a severe shock to his family and friends throughout this section.  He was a graduate of the Paintsville High School, class of 1936. Surviving are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. David May, one brother, Chalmer May, two sisters, Reva and Lena May, all students in the Paintsville City Schools. Funeral services were conducted Sunday at the Christian Church, the Reverend J.H. Stambaugh in charge.  The large crowd and the oral offerings were evidence of the high esteem in which young May was held by the citizens of Paintsville and his former classmates. Burial in the family lot in the Mayo Cemetery.  Funeral and burial services were in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday April 15, 1937

 
MURRAY, Carmel
1937
DEATH CLAIMS LOCAL MAN CARMEL MURRAY
SUCCUMBS AFTER ATTACK OF PNEUMONIA.
Carmel Murray, age 32, one of the most popular young men of Paintsville, died at his home on Euclide Avenue, Wednesday morning. Mr. Murray was stricken with pneumonia more than 2 weeks ago and died from complications arising from the disease.  He was unconscious most of the time after first being stricken. His brother, Dr. Herschel Murray, of West Liberty, had been with him for several days and was present when death came. Mr. Murray had many friends throughout the county, and his untimely death was a shock to his family and friends. Mr. Murray is survived by his wife, Christine Howes Murray, one brother, Dr. Herschel Murray, of West Liberty, Ky.; and his parents Mr. and Mrs. Fred Murray, of Paintsville. Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 o’clock Friday afternoon at the Mayo Memorial Church in charge of Dr. W.I. Canter, pastor. Burial will be made in the family lot in Mayo Cemetery. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 4-29-1937

 
PACK, Mrs. Eliza
1937
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. ELIZA PACK AGE 54
Mrs. Eliza Pack, age 54, well known woman of West Van Lear, died at her home there Tuesday. She was a native of Morgan County and the body was taken to the old home there Wednesday for burial. She is survived by her husband, two sons and one daughter and many relatives. The body was taken to West Liberty by the Paintsville Furniture Company. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY APR. 22 1937

 
PERKINS, Mack
1937
ACCIDENT HELD UNAVOIDABLE
Inquest Held in Death Of Mack Perkins
Riceville The accident which Friday took the life of Mack Perkins, 18, of Fairview, was held unavoidable last Friday morning by a coroner’s jury when an inquest was conducted by Dr. E.C. McGehee at the Alexander Funeral Home. Testimony of Bill Sweeney, driver of the Westwood bus which struck Perkins, passengers on the bus and other eye witnesses was to the effect that the boy rode out of Lee Street onto Main Street on a bicycle and hit a front fender of the bus. The bus was brought out, was driven over in attempting to avoid striking the boy. The jury which heard the testimony was composed of C.T. Simpson, B.F. Andrew, E. Hitchcock, B.F. Sheets, P.F. Kelly and F.P. Salyers. Perkins was killed almost instantly suffering a fracture at the base of the skull. The body was taken Saturday afternoon to Riceville in Johnson County, KY to the home of his father, Willie Perkins. Funeral services were held there Sunday morning at ten o’clock by the Rev. Hargis Conley. Burial will follow at Riceville. Perkins had been making his home with an uncle, Frank Perkins, in Fairview. He leaves his father and one sister, Normal, both of Riceville. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MAY 3, 1937

 
PRESTON, Rhoderick H."Rhodes"
1859-1937
MINISTER DIES FROM INJURIES
Rev. Rhodes Preston Victim of Railroad Accident
Funeral services were held for Rev. Rhodes Preston last Sunday, April 25, at the family graveyard at Thealka. "Uncle" Rhodes, as he was usually known, was struck by a train at the crossing at Thealka last Thursday morning, April 22, and suffered a fracture of the skull and internal injuries. He was taken to the Golden Rule Hospital where he died at 4:30 p. m., the same day. He would have been 78 years old on May 2. A very large crowd gathered at the cemetery to pay their last respects to a good man, who had been a United Baptist minister for nearly 65 years, having been converted at the age of 13 years. The funeral was conducted by his brothers of the United Baptist Church, and in charge of Elder Garland B. Preston, Elder Foster Riggsby, and Elder Dennis Culwell. The following obituary was... Rhoderick H. Preston was born May 2, 1859. He was the son of Samuel S. and Mahala Ward Preston. He was born in Johnson County where he spent his entire life. He was one of six sons of Samuel Preston, Lafayette, James Monroe, George, Jonathan and L. T. Preston. Rhoderick Preston was thrice married. His first marriage was to Amanda Ward, daughter of Davy K. Ward, a Baptist preacher; his second marrige was to Martha Caldwell, deceased, and his third marriage was to Leer Culwell of Magoffin County, who survives him. Mary is dead but Mary still survives. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday 4-29-1937

 
ROWLAND, Mrs. Richard
1937
Paintsville Woman Pneumonia Victim
Mrs. Richard Rowland, age 65, died at her home in West Paintsville Monday after a short illness from pneumonia.  Mrs. Rowland had been a member of Old bethel United Baptist church at Flat Gap for many years. Funeral and burial held Wednesday at the Estep cemetery on the head of Big Paint Creek in charge of the undertaking department of the Mountain Furniture & Hardware Company. She is survived by her husband, three sons and one daughter. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY April 8, 1937

 
WILLIAMS, Fred
1937
FRED  WILLIAMS  DIED  SUNDAY
Williamsport Man Is Victim of Rare Malady.
Fred Williams, 40 years old, died at his home at Williamsport, this county, early Sunday morning after a year's illness from silicosis, a rare malady.  Silicosis is a disease brought about by the inhalation of dust in the lungs, either from rock, coal, etc. Mr. Williams had been a patient in the King's Daughters Hospital for some time, but was brought to his home at Williamsport last Friday where he died the following Sunday. Mr. Williams was given a blood transfusion, his young son, Fred, Jr., furnishing the blood.  Following the blood transfusion the young son was also stricken and is near  death from pneumonia.  Mr. Williams was for a number of years foreman for the  Pocahontas Coal Company in West Virginia and was a very prominent citizen. Besides his wife, two sons, J.E. Williams and Fred Williams, one daughter, Geneva Williams, he is also survived by his father and mother and a number of brothers and sisters.  He was a brother of Mrs. John W. Molette of Van Lear. Funeral services were held at Williamsport Tuesday afternoon, attended by a large crowd.  Rev. F. S. VanHoose and Rev. Will Sparks, were in charge of the services.  Burial in the family cemetery at Williamsport. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 8, 1937



MAY - 1937
BLAIR, Sarah (Litteral)
1937
Southside Woman Victim of Cancer
Mrs. Sarah Blair, age about 75, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Resina Oppenheimer in Southside Addition at 4 o'clock Sunday morning.  She was the wife of Uncle George Blair, who survives.  He is near 80 years old.  Mrs. Blair had been ill for several months suffering from cancer.  She was a good woman and will be missed by her family and friends. Funeral services were held at the home with burial in the Fairchild Cemetery in Southside. Besides her aged husband she is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Resina Oppenheimer and one son, William Blair, of Magoffin County.  She was the daughter of the late Wesley Litteral of Oil Springs and is also survived by several brothers and sisters. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 6, 1937

 
CONLEY, Dora
1937
Local Woman Buried in Solid Copper Casket
Mrs. Dora Conley, 55, died at her home in Paintsville May 8, 1937, following a number of years illness.  Mrs. Conley was the wife of Frank (Big) Conley and was a good Christian mother and well respected in both Johnson and Magoffin County.  The family formerly lived in Magoffin County where Mr. Conley is engaged in the oil and gas business. Funeral services were held at Old Union United Baptist Church at Staffordsville, where she held membership.  Funeral services were in charge of Rev. Winfrey Meek and Rev. Guy W. Preston.  A large crowd of relatives and friends were present at the funeral and burial. The body was laid to rest in the family cemetery on the Conley farm at Staffordsville. Mrs. Conley was buried in a heavy, solid copper casket, probably the first ever used in this section. She is survived by her husband, four daughters and two sons. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 20, 1937

 
COX, David Walter
1935-1937
Little Son of Mr. Byrd Cox Died at Ashland Sunday
David Walter Cox, 20-months-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Byrd Cox died at their home in Ashland, after three weeks illness.  Funeral services were held at the Mayo Memorial Church in Paintsville Tuesday afternoon, May 2, 1937, Rev. H. G. Sowards, former pastor of the church, conducting the funeral. The body was taken to Flat Gap and interment made in the family cemetery there. David Walter Cox, little son of B. W. and Mrs. Miriam Preston Cox, was born in Paintsville, August 27, 1935. He died in the King’s Daughters’ Hospital in Ashland, Ky., May 2, 1937.  At the time of his death he was 20 months and 5 days old. Mr. and Mrs. Cox formerly lived in Paintsville but recently moved to Ashland where both have responsible positions with the Sandy Valley Grocery Company, Mr. Cox being one of the secretaries in the main office of the concern. Little David Walter became ill about three weeks ago.  A competent doctor of the city of Ashland was called to the Cox home to administer to him.  For two weeks the little fellow appeared to be improving, but the third week he became worse and was taken to the hospital where all the medical attention possible was given him.  A trained nurse was constantly at his bedside from the time he was admitted to the hospital until his death.  This is just another incident of the weakness of human hands, although operated by doctors and nurses of experience and training.  When the Nurse Angel calls to carry out the order of the Great Physician all must submit.  Little David Walter has been healed and his now basking in the sunshine of heaven. We appreciate the fact that it is hard for parents to part with their loved ones, but after all, what greater estate can one have than to have an interest in haven.  For Jesus said: “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the Kingdom of God.” Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-6-1937

 
DAVIS, Henry Roscoe
1861-1937
ROSCOE DAVIS DIED SUNDAY
Prominent Citizen Passes At Age of 75 Years
Roscoe Davis, age 76, died at his home on Davis Branch Sunday.  He had been in ill health for more than a year but had been seriously ill since Thursday before his death.  Funeral services were conducted from the home and burial in the family cemetery.  Rev. Haden Childers was in charge of the services directed by the Paintsville Furniture Company. The following obituary was read at the funeral: Henry Roscoe Davis was born November 25, 1861, and died May 9, 1937, age 7 years, 5 months and 24 days.  He was one of 12 children born to the union of the late James M. and Naomi Price Davis.  In early life he traveled about a great deal, yet he died and will be buried in sight of the place of his birth. On August 31, 1895, Roscoe Davis and Glennie Childers, a daughter of Haden and Mary Childers were united in marriage and to this union were born 5 children; Clarence, of West Van Lear, Ky., Mrs. Herbert Preston, Mrs. Curt Barber, Junior and Bernard of Paintsville. Brother Davis professed a hope in Christ, joined the United Baptist Church at Concord and was baptised January 30, 1915.  In the following year he was chosen clerk of his church and served as such until he resigned in 1928. Following in the footsteps of his father he served his church as deacon from July 1925, until his death. To mourn his passing he leaves his wife, his 5 children, and 7 grandchildren.  Also the following sisters: Mrs. Lizzie Ford, Auxier, Ky.; Mrs. Lorenda Spradlin, West Van Lear, Ky.; Mrs. Hemma Childers, Mrs. Cynthia Auxier, Mrs. Ella Hall, Mrs. Addie Rice, Paintsville, and Mrs. Minnie Akers, Wheelersburg, O. His friends were numbered by his acquaintances.  To know him was to admire and love him. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 13, 1937

 
GRIM, Willie
1937
Willie Grim, age about 55, dropped dead at this home there last Saturday evening. Heart failure was attributed as the cause of his death. He had suffered from heart trouble for some time. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock in charge of Rev. Dennis Culwell and Rev. Shady Grim. He was a member of the United Baptist Church and held membership at Locust Grove Church. Burial at the Sycamore graveyard in charge of the Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company. He is survived by his wife and five children, all grown. Mr. Grim was one of the best citizens of the county and a devout Christian. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MAY 20, 1937

 
MCCARTY, Ruby June (Blanton)
1937
Death Claims Flat Gap Woman
Mrs. Ruby June McCarty, age 17, died at her home at Flat Gap last Sunday May 16, 1937, following the birth of a new born babe.  She was an excellent young woman and her death brings sorrow to that section.  She was the daughter of N. K. Blanton of that section. Funeral and burial at Low Gap Monday in charge of Rev. Lonza Reed. Guy W. Preston, undertaker for the Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company officiated at the funeral and burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-20-1937

 
PATRICK, Robert A.
1937
SERVICES FOR R. A. PATRICK TO BE HELD AT M. E. CHURCH
Funeral services will be held at 2 o’clock Friday afternoon at the M.E. Church, for R.A. Patrick who died at the Paintsville Hospital Wednesday. He had been an active Mason for more than fifty years and had been granted a badge of honor issued by the Grand Lodge of Kentucky Masons. The services will be in charge of C.R. Garland, pastor of the church, and by members of the local lodge of Masons. Mr. Patrick was nearly 76 years of age and for more than 50 years had been one of the prominent citizens and churchmen of Paintsville. Mr. Patrick came here from Magoffin County where he was a member of a very prominent family. He was the son of the late Captain Rube Patrick of Civil War fame, and is survived by a large number of relatives in both Johnson and Magoffin. Judge Patrick had held many trusts of honor and responsibility.  He served as deputy Circuit Court Clerk for a number of years and for several years thereafter was connected with Northern Coke & Coal Company, of which John C.C. Mayo was the head.  He also acted as Police Judge of Paintsville and held that position until a few months before his death when he resigned because of ill health. Judge Patrick had lived an upright Christian life and had been a member of the Paintsville M.E. Church for fifty years. Burial will take place Friday afternoon and will be in charge of the Masons in Mayo Cemetery. Besides his wife, Mrs. Colista Stafford Patrick, he is survived by two daughters, Miss Gertrude Patrick of Paintsville and Mrs. Harry Howes, of Lexington,; three brothers, Henry Patrick of Wenatchee, Washington; Frank Patrick of Arizona, and Ben Patrick of Salyersville; three sisters, Mrs. Susan Hurt, of Ivyton Ky.; Mrs. June Millard, Wilmore, Ky., and Mrs. Maude Salyer, of Owingsville, Ky. PAINTSVILLE HERALD May 27, 1937

 
ROSS, Eliphas
1869-1937
DEATH CALLS ELIPHAS ROSS
Prominent Resident of Flat Gap Succumbs to Illness
On May 22, 1937, our Heavenly Father in his infinitely wisdom, from the scene of this life, Eliphas Ross. Leaving his grieved Wife, Cora B.Grimsley Sagraves Ross and one daughter, June Marie Ross, one sister,Mrs. William Shaffer of Grayson, Ky., one brother, William Ross of Skaggs, Ky., and a host of other relatives. His death was a great shock to his family and many friends, but we realize and know that God doeth all things well. Life was the son of David and Martha Ross, was born in Flat Gap community, Jan. 26, 1869 and spent his 63 years at the old Ross home. He professed faith in Christ in 1894, being a Christian for 43 years. The church has lost a valued member the community and honored citizen and the family a devoted husband and father. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Hood Wallin. He was laid to rest in the Ross Cemetery near his home.
Paintsville Herald of June 3, 1937.
 
STAMBAUGH, Helen Sue
1937
INFANT DAUGHTER DIES
Helen Sue Stambaugh, three-year-old, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Stambaugh of Stambaugh, died June 1.   She was born December 4, 1933 and was three years and six months old at the time of her death. She is survived by her parents, two brothers, Clyde and Don C., three sisters:   Dorothy, Betty and Sybil.  She is also survived by her grandparents and a host of relatives and friends. This little girl will be greatly missed by all those who loved her. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 10, 1937

 
WHEELER, B.I.
1937
Funeral Services For B. I. Wheeler
Funeral rites for B. I. Wheeler 57, of 1028 Greenup Avenue Ashland who died Monday  May 31 1937, were held Wednesday at the United Baptist Church in Paintsville, KY.  He  was buried in the James LeMaster Cemetery near Oil Springs Kentucky. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Flora Wheeler; two children Mrs. Sidney Crabtree, of  Lucasville, Ohio, and Miss Lucy Wheeler at home; his mother, Mrs. Melva Wheeler,  Paintsville, two sisters, Mrs. Carrie Jenkins, Everett, Ky., and Mrs. Bessie Brown  Paintsville and three brothers; James Wheeler of Ohio and D. M. and Oscar Wheeler of  Wheelersburg, Ky. Paintsville Herald Thursday



JUNE - 1937

FAIRCHILD, James.
1937
DEATH CLAIMS JAS. FAIRCHILD
WELL KNOWN CITIZEN SUCCUMBS AFTER A LONG ILLNESS
Jas. Fairchild, age 74, died at his home on Burnt Cabin Branch, near Paintsville on Monday, June 1.  He had been in bad health for several years, but for the past year he had been confined to his home. Mr. Fairchild was one of the best known citizens of the county.  For years he operated a blacksmith shop in Paintsville and in his younger days followed the profession of gunsmith. Many guns of the old squirrel rifle type and made by Mr. Fairchild can be found in Johnson County. James Fairchild was the son of the late Levi Fairchild who died in his 100th year. Funeral services were held at the home Thursday morning, June 3, and a very large crowd was present.  The many flowers and the large number present attested to the high esteem in which Mr. Fairchild was held. Dr. J.R. Fairchild, of Inez, a cousin of the deceased, had charge of the services and is said to have delivered one of the best sermons ever heard in this section. Burial was made in the family cemetery near the home. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Polly Fairchild, and four children:  Dick Fairchild, James Fairchild, Jr., Mrs. Henry Cantrell, and Mrs. Arch Music, all of that immediate community. He is also survived by one brother, John Fairchild, of Hager Hill, and three sisters, Mrs. Bud Fitchpatrick and Mrs. D.B. Conley of Paintsville, and Mrs. Jenny Leek of New Boston, O. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY June 10, 1937

 
GULLETT, Tom
1937
Tom Gullet Train Victim
Local Man Killed At Pikeville Thursday Night
Tom Gullet, age 40 years, was found dead near his home. At Pikeville last Thursday night with his body badly mangled.  He had evidently been run over by a C. & O. train.  The right arm had been severed and several ribs broken.  One of the ribs had pierced the lungs. Mr. Gullett formerly lived at Bridgford Addition, but moved to Pikeville with his family when he had a position with the Kentucky and West Virginia Power Company. The body was brought to the home of his mother in Bridgford and remained there until Sunday when the funeral services were conducted by Rev. H. B. Conley and others. After the funeral the body was taken to the old home place near Oil Springs for burial. Mr. Gullett was a World War veteran and member of the American Legion had charge of the burial services. A large crowd of Johnson and Magoffin County relatives and friends attended the funeral and burial.  Mr. Gullett was a very popular man and had many friends. He was the son of Bud Gullett who died at his home at Oil Springs two years ago. Besides his aged mother he is survived by his wife and two sons.  He is also survived by one sister, Mrs. Charles Helton of Paintsville and one brother Floyd Gullett of Wenatchee, Washington. The untimely death of Mr. Gullett was a severe blow to his family and has brought sorrow to hundreds of friends in the two counties where he was known. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-24-1937

 
HAMPTON, Bert
1937
Magoffin Man Held in Death of Louisa Police Officer.
Bert Hampton, 48 years old a police officer of Louisa, was fatally shot on the streets there near midnight last Sunday.  Three slugs from a 45 caliber pistol entered the officer's body. Walter Wireman, 40, truck driver from Royalton, Magoffin County, is being held in the Lawrence county jail charged with the crime.   G. L. Carpenter, of Salyersville, who was with Wireman at the time, is being held s a material witness. The shooting took place about 12:15 a.m.  Sunday morning when the Louisa Officer attempted to arrest Wireman for driving a truck while drunk.  Hampton, in a deathbed statement, said that Wireman got out of the truck and then commenced firing at close range.  One of the bullets tore away the little finger of the officer's left hand and busted his pistol handle, another went through his left leg and a third went through his abdomen.  Wireman is said to have fired four times, the fourth bullet going through the officer's tie. Knocked to the street by the force of the slugs, Hampton emptied his pistol at his assailant from a reclining position.  One of the officer's bullets grazed Wireman's forehead and a second shot off two toes of his left foot. Carpenter left the scene during the shooting.  He is a son of Green Carpenter of Salyersville and held only as a material witness.  Carpenter surrendered to officers. Wireman left his truck and escaped out of town afoot.  He was arrested about 4 o'clock Sunday morning about a mile out of town on Lick Creek by a posse of officers and citizens. Louisa officers said Wireman who was en route to his home in Magoffin County from Catlettsburg where he sold a truck load of lumber, stopped in Louisa Saturday evening.  Patrolman Hampton found him about midnight, he said, with the truck stalled on the railway crossing.  While helping Wireman and Carpenter push the truck off the railway, Hampton said he discovered Wireman was intoxicated and ordered him under arrest.  The shooting started when Hampton got out of the truck cab. Hampton underwent an emergency operation at a Louisa hospital.  Little hope was held for his recovery at the time and he died a few hours later. The intestines had been perforated ten times Hampton is the second officer to be shot to death at Louisa in recent years.  Lace Vinson was shot to death by Russell Horn of Prestonsburg a few years ago. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-1-1937

 
HOPSON, Sam
1937
SAM HOPSON DIED AT AUXIER, KY.
Sam Hopson, 74 years old died suddenly at his home at Auxier, Sunday morning, June 27, of heart attack.  He spent a number of years employed by the North East Coal Co., at Auxier and a prominent citizen of Floyd and Johnson Counties.  Funeral was held from his home at Auxier Tuesday morning at 10 o’clock.  Rev. Sturgill Honeycutt conduct the funeral services.  Burial in the family cemetery near his home.  He is survived by his wife one daughter, Mrs. Bert Preston and three sons, Jimmie, Lafie and George.  The burial services were in charge of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 1, 1937

 
JACKSON, Granville Clinton
1891-1937
FORMER COUNTY CITIZEN DIED AT ASHLAND, KY.
Granville Clinton Jackson, 46, died last Friday morning at his home in West Fairview after an illness of ten months, near Ashland. He was born in Johnson county, Ky., April 17, 1891, the son of William Jackson, a native of Harlan county and Mary Salyers Jackson of Johnson county. Funeral services were held at the home in Fairview Saturday afternoon at two o'clock by Rev. Lucas. Burial in the Dixon cemetery. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Bertha Jackson: three sons, Gratz Jackson, Clinton Jackson and Robinson Caruso Jackson, all at home; a sister, Mrs. Cora Conley, Paintsville, Ky.; and one brother, Milton Jackson of Flat Gap. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-24-1937

 
MICKLES, E. H.
1937
VAN LEAR MAN DIED HERE JUNE 2
E. H. Mickles, one of Van Lear’s oldest and most respected citizens, died at the Paintsville Hospital, Wednesday, June 2. Mr. Mickles was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and at the time of his death was Deacon and superintendent of the Church.  He had been in ill health for the last two years. The community has lost a good Christian man.  He is survived by his wife, two daughters, Mrs. W. H. Johnson of Hager Hill, and Mrs. W. H. Sievers, New Orleans, La., and six sons, Donald, Doyal, Harold, Howard, Lewis and Jimmie and two grandchildren. Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 10, 1937

 
WILLIAMS, Ela (Stacy)
1864-1937
DEATH CALLS RED BUSH WOMAN
Mrs. Ela Williams, nee Stacy, was born September 22, 1864 and died June 18, 1937. November 16, 1888 she was married to Napoleon M. Williams, deceased 1934, and  to this union were born six children; Mrs. Oscar Blanton, Red Bush, Mrs. Merk Lyon,  Patako, Ill., Mrs. Lafe Stapleton, deceased, Catlettsburg, Wallace Williams, Portsmouth, Ashley Williams, whereabouts unknown and Mrs. Courtney Haney, Red Bush. She joined the the Regular Baptist church of Red Bush July 27, 1889 and lived a devoted Christian until death. She had been confined to her home for several years but bore her suffering with  Christian fortitude and patience. Her every wish was gratified by loving children and sympathetic friends who were constantly at her bedside. We feel our community is better by having her live in it, and that her useful amicable life is worthy of emulation. The high esteem in which she was held was manifested by the beautiful floral  offerings that enshrouded her casket, and the many friends and relatives who came to pay their last tribute of respect, together with the worthy eulogy delivered by her pastor, Rev. William Smith, of Mima, Ky. at the old church from whence her body was borne to the family plot near her home and laid beside her daughter and husband there to wait that annunciation, "Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust for your  redemption draweth nigh!" Besides her children she leaves to mourn her loss one brother, J. D. Cochran, Win; three step children, J. R. Williams, Red Bush; Mrs. Myrtie Pendleton, deceased, Portsmouth, Mrs. Floyd Salmons, Wheelersburg, Ohio, 14 grandchildren and a host of friends and relatives. "In fancy we hear her speak From her home in the sky. I'm happy up here children Why do you cry I've conquered that monster, Grim, cruel death, and now I'm enclouded With eternal breath. While you're mourning My spirit is hovering near Prepare, dear children, To meet me up here." Paintsville Herald Thursday July 8, 1937



JULY - 1937

COLEMAN, E. R.
1937
Washes Feet, Loses Life
E. R. Coleman Drowns in Stream at West Van Lear E. R. Coleman waded into the River at West Van Lear last Thursday to wash his feet, and stepping into a deep hole of water, drowned before help could reach him. Mr. Coleman was a native of Pike County. He had lived at West Van Lear only a few weeks. Surviving are his mother, Mrs. Mollie Coleman at Raccoon; his widow, Mrs. Jane Coleman; three small daughters, Marie, Josephine and Thelma; one son, Ernest Jr.; two brothers, Ernest and Linton Coleman and five sisters, Madge, Essie and Besie Coleman and Mrs. Lucy Coleman and Mrs. Emma Justice, all of Raccoon. Funeral services were conducted at the home of his mother at Raccoon. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 29, 1937

LEMASTER, John
1937
MAN, WIFE, DIE 2 WEEKS APART
Mr. and Mrs. Lemaster Pass Away On Sabbath Two deaths that claimed two good Johnson County citizens occurred two weeks apart on Sunday. John LeMaster, 72 years old, died at his home at Sitka Sunday, July 25 and his wife, Mrs. Malissa LeMaster, 67, died last Sunday. Mr. LeMaster died from tuberculosis and Mrs. LeMaster died from a paralytic stroke. Both were buried at Sitka. Funeral rites were preformed by the Rev. Harry Salyer. The undertaking department of the Mountian Furniture Company prepared the bodies for burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 12, 1937

 
SANSOM, Thomas B.
1937
Civil War Veteran Passes At Age 94
Funeral rites for Thomas B. Sansom, 94, a veteran of the Civil War, who died Friday morning at his home at Chestnut in the southern section of this county, were conducted last week at his home with the Rev. Ed. Preston, officiating.  Interment was made in the family cemetery between Chestnut and River. Mr. Sansom who had been making his home for the past few months with his daughter, Mrs. Virgil Prose, in Ashland, became ill a week ago while inspecting his farm near Chestnut.  Death came Friday morning at 6 o’clock. He is survived only by one daughter, Mrs. Prose.  His wife Mrs. Martha Van Hoose Sansom died a number of years ago. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday July 8, 1937

 
SLONE, Daniel Jasper
1937
Death Claims D. J. Slone, 61 Brother of Paintsville Man Had Been ill 12 Years.
Daniel Jasper Slone, 61 years old, died Monday at his home near Ulysses after an illness of twelve years from diabetes.  He was a member of the United Baptist Church and formerly lived on Hoods Fork of Blain in this county.  He had been gravely ill for three weeks. Mr. Slone was a brother of W. H. Slone and Monroe Slone of Paintsville. His wife, Mrs. Miama Castle Slone survives.  He also is survived by the following children, Harkless and Alva Slone of George’s Creek and a daughter Alice of Ashland.  Other brothers surviving are Marion Slone, Lucasville, O.; Isaac Slone, Peebles, O.; John Slone, Sitka; Proctor Slone, Sip; sisters, Mrs. Cynthia Adams, Cataluba, O.; Mrs. Guy Dixon, Paintsville and Mrs. Charles Ross on Hood’s Creek. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-22-1937

 
SPEARS, Dora (Stafford)
1878-1937
MRS, SPEARS DIES FROM PISTOL WOUND
Double Shooting Victim Passes;
Daughter Still Living
Mrs. Dora Stafford Spears, 59 years old, who was shot last Wednesday afternoon at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Edna May Meade who also was seriously shot, died Friday morning at the Paintsville Hospital. She had been shot in the neck and her spinal cord was severed by the bullet, according to the doctors who examined her. Mrs. Spears was one of Johnson County's best christian Women. She had been a menber of the church for many years. Mrs. Meade, who was shot through the chest, is expected to recover. Funeral services for Mrs. Spears were held at the home of her daughter. Mrs. Dorthy Patrick, with the Rev. Arthur Greene, in charge. Burial was Sunday in the family cemetery at River, home of Mrs. Spears' husband. John Spears, who died about a year ago. Mr. Spears formerly was a merchant in Paintsville. Besides her daughters, Mrs. Spears is survived by a son, John Leonard Spears; sisters, Mrs, R. A. Patrick, Mrs. Arminta Lyon and Miss May Stafford of Paintsville; Mrs. F.F. Smith, Parkersburg, W.Va.; Mrs. Carrie Stafford, Abingdon, Va. and brother, DeWitt and W.T. Stafford of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 15, 1937
 
OBITUARY DORA STAFFORD SPEARS
 On Sunday afternoon, July 11, 1937, a large crowd of people gathered at the home of Mrs. Dora Stafford Spears, in Stafford Addition, to pay their last tribute of respect to one who was loved and esteemed most highly. The funeral services were in charge of Rev. Arthur Green, of Ashland, Ky., assisted by Rev. Winfrey Meek and Rev G.R. Garland. Each minister portrayed in word pictures the beautiful life and christian character of Mrs. Spears. The following paper was read: Dora Stafford Spears, daughter of Francis Marion and Marietta Stafford was born June 5, 1878, and departed this life July 9, 1937, being 59 years, 1 month and 4 days of age. She was united in marriage to John L. Spears of River, Ky., on Dec. 21, 1899. To this union were born four children: Norma Mildred, Edna Mae, (Mrs. Hobart Meade), Dorothy Lee, (Mrs. Green Patrick), and John Leonard, all of Paintsville. Her husband and daughter, Mildred preceded her in death. Mrs. Spears was converted when a young girl about 14 years of age, and lived a beautiful and consistent christian life. She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Her untimely death was a shock to the entire community. Everything was done that loving hands could do, but the last enemy had claimed her, and she went home to die no more, and to join her companion and daughter, her dear one and her Savior. She was kind and patient in her suffering. It was a benediction to be in her presence. Mrs. Spears was an ideal homemaker, an ideal wife, and a loving christian mother, whose children felt the influence and power of her prayers for them through childhood and maturity, guarding and shielding them from the dangers and temptations of this life. Often and often my thought go back Like wanders over a timeworn track, To the time when I knelt at my mother's knee And she sang at the twilight hour to me. Oh, the dear old songs! I can see her eyes Aglow with the gladness of paradise, As I fancy she sings in the streets of gold The hymns that she sang in the days of old. As she sang them over, her face grew bright, As if God's city was just in sight. And she saw the angels, and heard them sing By the great white throne, before the King. The songs sung by the members of the United Baptist Church were: "How Firm A Foundation," "Amazing Grace," "How Tedious and Tasteless the Hours" and "Come With Me To The Old Churchyard." A duet, "Will the Circle Be Unbroken," was sung by Mrs. Delmas Preston and Mr. Abe Barber with Mrs. Robert Montgomery at the piano. The burial service was held at River, Ky. where she was laid to rest beside her husband and daughter, and where was gathered a large crowd of sorrowing friends and relatives. Mrs. Spears is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Hobart Meade and Mrs. Green Patrick, and one son, John Leonard Spears, and by seven grandchildren: Hobart Haviland Meade, Mary Judith Meade, Phillip Roger Meade, Patricia Ann Meade, Betty Allene Stapleton, David Lee Stapleton, and John Leonard Spears III. Also, by the following sisters and brothers: Mrs. Araminta Lyons, Mrs. R. A. Patrick, Misses Ella and May Stafford, Mrs. F. F. Smith, W. T. Stafford and DeWitt T. Stafford, all of Paintsville, Ky., and Mrs. M.E. Stafford, of Abingdon, Va. Her tragic death was all the more shocking as Mrs. Spears was always known to be a good christian woman, kind to everyone, never giving anyone a cross word, and lived her religion every day, caring only for the things that pertained to the glory and honor of God. She said that nothing else was worth while but the work of the Lord, and she faced death calmly, with abiding faith in Him. She exerted a strong christian influence over her children and grandchildren, uniting them in a beautiful devotion to each other and to her. No greater monument could be erected to Dora Stafford Spears than the monument she erected for herself in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, as exemplified in the highest type of christian womanhood. She filled up her life in doing good. What imprinted the stamp of nobility upon her whole being and influenced all her opinions was her true piety and the deep reverence she had for her Lord and Savior, whose example penetrated her life through and through. Her beautiful life went on filled up with a variety of christian duties. The practical effect of this was most evident in her daily true-hearted, whole-hearted service for her King, and also in the increased joyousness of the unswerving obedience of her home life, the surest test of all, thus accepting in simple and unquestioning faith God's commands and promises "Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life." "She chose His service. For the Lord of Love Had chosen her and paid the awful price For her redemption; and had sought her out And set her free, and clothed her gloriously, And put his royal ring upon her hand, And crowns of loving-kindness on her head." PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JULY 22 1937

 
WITTEN, James
1937
Death Claims James Witten
James Witten, age 75 years, died Monday at the home of his son Frank Witten on Toms Creek from the infirmities of age. He was prominent and respected citizen of his community. His wife had preceded him in death. Funeral services were held at home Tuesday afternoon and the body taken to the family cemetery on Williams Branch for burial. He is survived by the following children: Cue Witten, Frank Witten, Mrs. Milt VanHoose, Mrs. Milt Meadows, Cub Witten and other relatives. A number of people from here attended the funeral and burial. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JULY 8, 1937



AUGUST - 1937
BURKE, Walter
1890-1937
2 Other Hurt At LANDSLIDE
Engineer Lived about 30 Minutes After Derailment
Services Held Sunday For Walter Burke  Walter Burke, 46 years old Chesapeake & Ohio railroad engineer died at about 1:15 o’clock Wednesday morning 30 minutes after the engine he was driving ran into a landslide near Auxier. Two other men were injured. The slide was about fifteen feet deep and thirty feet long. The engine plunged about forty feet over an embankment. Seven cars were derailed. E.T. “Doke” Sherman of Paintsville, head brakeman, and Dave Corder, Van Lear, fireman, were severely crushed and burned. The Paintsville yard crew headed by H. F. Wheeler yard master, took Dr. P.B. Hall and went to the scene after the train conductor from the derailed train walked two miles to Auxier to telephone for aid. The wreck occurred on what is known as Honeycutt Curve. It was raining at the time and the brakeman and fireman both were unable to see the wreck and didn’t know of any danger until Engineer Burke applied the brakes and the engine struck the side. Mr. Corder is in a serious condition at the Paintsville Hospital but it is believed he will recover. Mr. Sherman was less seriously injured. He too is at the hospital. A special train from Huntington, carrying E.L. Bock, C. & O. General Superintendent and a number of other officials, was dispatched to the scene Wednesday morning to make an investigation. The wreckage was cleared up about noon, when other trains were allowed to go through. Funeral services will be held at the mayo Memorial Church at 2 o’clock Sunday afternoon. Mr. Burke of Cincinnati was visiting in Fort Worth, Texas at the time. Telegrams were sent but Mrs. Burke had not been reached Wednesday night. Mr. Burke was one of the most popular resident of Paintsville and was widely known throughout the Big Sandy Valley. He was born at Ashland, KY, February 2, 1890. Besides his mother, Mr. Burke, is survived by his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Burke; sisters; Mrs. Kathryn Hammat, Columbus, Ohio; Mrs. Edyth Dean, Washington, D.C: Mrs. Hilda Meyer, Fort Worth, Texas; Mrs. Lillian Stine, Cincinnati: brothers Harry Burke, Marine Service, Hawaiian Islands and Charles Burke, Cincinnati. Mr. Burke was a brother-in-law of James W. Hammond, warden of the State of Penitentiary, Frankfort. Paintsville Herald Thursday Aug 26, 1937
 
WALTER BURKE BURKE RITES HELD SUNDAY C & O ENGINEER DIED IN WRECK WEDNESDAY MORNING. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Mayo Memorial Church for Walter Burke, 47, who was killed early Wednesday morning, August 25, in a train wreck near Auxier. Services were conducted by the Rev. W.I. Canter, pastor of Mayo Memorial Church and the Rev. John Stambaugh, pastor of the Christian Church here. A large crowd which filled the entire church building attended the services.  Beautiful floral offerings were banked high in tribute to Mr. Burke who was one of the most popular men in this section. Mr. Burke was born and raised in Ashland but had been living in Paintsville for many years.  He had been an employee of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad for the last 27 years.  During the last twenty-two years of that time he had been engineer. Mr. Burke became a member of the church in 1928. Burial was in the Mayo Cemetery. Surviving Mr. Burke are his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Hammond Burke; his mother, Mrs. Viola Burke, Cincinnati, sisters, Mrs. Kathryn Hammat, Columbus, Ohio; Mrs. Edyth Dean, Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Marie Winston, Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Hilda Meyer, Ft. Worth, Texas, Mrs. Lillian Stine, Cincinnati; brothers, Harry Burke, Marine Service, Hawaiian Islands and Charles Burke, Cincinnati. The body was prepared for burial by the Undertaking Department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday September 2, 1937

 
BUTCHER, Geneva (Lewis)
1937
Boons Camp Woman Dies Daughter-in-Law of Prof. Geo. Butcher Passes
Mrs. Geneva Butcher, 26, years old widow of Estill Butcher died Wednesday of last week after a lingering illness, from tuberculosis. She had spent months in a Louisville hospital but had been the home of her parents Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lewis at Boons Camp for several months. Mrs. Butcher formerly was a school-teacher in the Johnson County public schools. She was the daughter-in-law of Prof. George W. Butcher formerly connect with the John C. C. Mayo College in Paintsville. Burial was in the cemetery at the Three Forks of Greasy. The Body was prepared for burial by the Undertaking Department of the Mountain Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 12, 1937

 
CARTER, Alonzo "Dick
1937
CARTER DIES IN POOLROOM
Heart Attack Fatal To John's Creek Man
Alonzo "Dick" Carter, 47 years old, a farmer and WPA worker of John's Creek, fell dead about 9 o'clock Tuesday morning in The Playhouse on Court Street here. He had been shooting a game of pool and as he reached into his pocket to pay for the privilege of playing it was said, the attack occured and he fell to the floor. He breathed only once or twice and died before Dr. R. G. Ehlers, County Health Office, reached him. Mr. Carter had been a coal miner at Van Lear. Later he had moved to a farm on John's Creek where he earned a living by farming and working for WPA. Surviving are his wife Mrs. Edna Carter and five children. The body was taken to the Mountain Furniture Company, where it was kept for sometime before the dead man was identified. Paintsville Herald 8-12-1937 Thursday

 
GREEN, Jiles
1937
Jiles Green, 63, Taken By Death
Jiles Green, 63, of Barn Rock, died Sunday morning. Mr. Green was a prominent resident of Johnson County.  He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Vina Hill Green, Burial was in the family cemetery on the farm Monday.   The Paintsville Furniture Company’s Undertaking Department had charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-26-1937

 
HALL, Mary Brian
1937
Little Hall Girl Claimed by Death
Little Mary Brian Hall, 3 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Hall, died at the home of her parents Saturday, August 14, as a result of a complication of diseases. She was the granddaughter on her mother's side of the late Patton and Mollie Williams and on her father's side of Judge and Mrs. J. Melvin Hall. The funeral was held Monday afternoon at the home of her Grandfather Hall and was conducted by the Rev. W. L. Canter and the Rev. Burns Conley. The burial took place in the Davis family cemetery near her home. The floral offering was one of the largest and most beautiful ever seen which showed the high esteem in which she and her parents are held. The background of the child's life was so different from many children. She was brought up by a Christian father and a Christian mother whose whole desire was to bring her up in the fear and the admonition of the Lord.  They taught her to say her little prayer each night, to return thanks at the table and to go to Sunday School and to say verses from the Bible. Because of her sweet disposition, she made friends wherever she went.  It is so hard to give up a child who is thoughtful and affectionate as Mary Brian, but Jesus said, 'Suffer little children to come unto Me and forbid them not for of such is the kingdom of Heaven.' She was the bright and Morning Star of this home.  Now she is an Angel in Heaven awaiting the coming of her dear loved ones. Paintsville Herald Wednesday August 19, 1937

 
HEWLETT, H. B.
1937
REV. HEWLETT  DIES AGE 81 PROMINENT MINISTER IN SANDY VALLEY AT LOUISA.
The Rev. H. B. Hewlett, 81 years old, minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church for sixty years, and well known throughout Eastern Kentucky, died at his home in Louisa Monday after a long illness.  He had been seriously ill for the past five weeks. Reverend Hewlett was well known in Paintsville and Johnson County.  Years ago he preached often at the Wells Chapel Methodist Church at Boons Camp.  A few years ago he returned to the Old Wells Chapel to conduct services and a large crowd turned out to hear him.  It was one of the most impressive sermons of his long career and will be remembered by those who heard him as long as they live. Reverend Hewlett was one of the best loved ministers in the Big Sandy Valley and has been one of the greatest influences for good that ever came to this section of the State. Funeral services were held in Louisa and burial was in the Pine Hill Cemetery.  A number of Paintsville and Johnson County people attended. Paintsville Herald August 12, 1937

 
LEMASTER, Malissa
1937
MAN, WIFE, DIE 2 WEEKS APART
Mr. and Mrs. Lemaster Pass Away On Sabbath Two deaths that claimed two good Johnson County citizens occurred two weeks apart on Sunday. John LeMaster, 72 years old, died at his home at Sitka Sunday, July 25 and his wife, Mrs. Malissa LeMaster, 67, died last Sunday. Mr. LeMaster died from tuberculosis and Mrs. LeMaster died from a paralytic stroke. Both were buried at Sitka. Funeral rites were preformed by the Rev. Harry Salyer. The undertaking department of the Mountian Furniture Company prepared the bodies for burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 12, 1937

 
ROBINSON, Freddie
1937
DEATH CLAIMS LOCAL MAN
FREDDIE ROBINSON IS VICTIM OF HEART AILMENT.
Freddie Robinson, age 40 years, died at the home of his brother, Bill Robinson in this city at 4:10 p.m., last Thursday, August 12. He had been ill for the past three months suffering from heart trouble. Mr. Robinson had been connected with shows for the past three years and was with a show in the South when stricken. He had many friends here and elsewhere. Funeral services were held at the Paintsville Freewill Baptist Church Saturday afternoon and a large crowd of relatives and friends attended.  Burial in the family lot in Mayo Cemetery. He is survived by his father, Enoch Robinson and the following brothers and sisters: Bill Robinson, James Robinson, Manuel Robinson, Mrs. Lucy Fitzpatrick, Mrs. Bascom Taylor, Mrs. Bill Brown, Mrs. Roy Melvin, Mrs. Bert Castle and one half-brother, Enoch Robinson, Jr. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday August 19, 1937

 
SMITH, Harkless
1937
Hitchhiker Killed By Ward's Truck
Harkless Smith, son of Powell Smith of Morgan County was killed Monday of last week when he is said to have fallen from a truck owned by Shade Ward of Van Lear. The accident occurred on the Mayo Trail near Nippa. Smith's body was brought to the undertaking department of the Mountain Furniture and Hardware Company for identification. Neighbors of the Smith family who were visiting relatives at the Golden Rule Hospital heard of the death and visited the undertaking establishment to make the identification. Smith's grandfather and two uncles came for the body and returned it to Morgan County for funeral and burial services. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY AUGUST 26 1937

 
SPENCER, Jasper
1937
JASPER SPENCER DIES AT LEANDER
Man, 75, Was Son Of The Late Jordon Spencer Of Virginia
Jasper Spencer, 75 years old, Leander, died last week at his home. He was the son of the late Jordan Spencer who was a native of Virginia.  Mr. Spencer was buried on Lick Fork of Jenny's Creek.  He is survived by his wife and four children. Mr. Spencer was born in Johnson County and spent his entire life here. The undertaking department of the Mountain Furniture & Hardware Company had charge of the burial arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-26-1937 SPENCER, William Jasper 1867-1937 William Jasper Spencer  Birth:  1867 Paintsville Johnson County Kentucky, USA  Death:  Aug. 14, 1937 Paintsville Johnson County Kentucky, USA  The husband of Lulia Hopkins Spencer. Jasper and Lulia were married March 14, 1905 in Johnson County, Ky. The father of Lindsey Spencer, Otto Spencer, Gradie Spencer, Mrs. Virgie Jenkins, Mrs. Alka Whitaker, Mrs. Dialpha Watson, Mrs. Stella Tackett and Mrs. Ethel Tackett. Wilford, Sidney and Nora Mae Spencer preceded him in death.The Marriage certificate was dated March 14, 1905 also says they were married at Charles Fitchpatrick's the 15 of March 1905. This was Jasper's third marriage. His first wife was Amanda Blanton Spencer,Married September 13, 1888. His second wife was Samantha Ratliff Adams, Married May 5, 1899. Burial: Ratliff Cemetery  Johnson County Kentucky, USA  Record added: Feb 24 2002 By: Mary Spencer 

 
STAMBAUGH, Naoma (Witten)
1937
Mrs. Stambaugh Taken by Death
Woman Able to Be up Friday Morning Died That Night
Mrs. Naoma Stambaugh, 50, wife of Roy Stambaugh of Stambaugh, Ky., died Friday night after an illness of several years.  She had been able to go about and do some of her house work.  Friday morning she got up and dressed but returned to bed. Burial was in the family cemetery Saturday afternoonn.  The Rev. Guy W. Preston conducted the service. Besides her husband, she is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Sterling Van Hoose of Nippa and Miss Ruth Stambaugh at home; a sister, Mrs. Lon Arrowood of Wayland, and two brothers, R. H. Witten, Auxier and W. E. Witten, Harrisburg, Ill. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 26, 1937



SEPTEMBER - 1937
CANTRELL, Walter
1937
FUGET MAN DIES IN LOCAL HOSPITAL
Walter Cantrell of Fuget, this county, died at the City View Hospital Wednesday, September 15.  He was the son of Mr. and H. B. Cantrell and a member of the 4-H Club.  He was working on the Cantrell’s Creek road when he was stricken.  He was well liked in his neighborhood.  Many members of the Cuba 4-H Club visited him while in the local hospital brought flowers. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY September 30, 1937

 
CECIL, Ed
1937
DEATH CLAIMS ED CECIL, 54
Former Van Lear Miner Taken to Ohio  For Burial
Ed Cecil, 54 years old, formerly for many years employed at Van Lear by the Consolidation Coal Company, died Saturday afternoon at the Paintsville Hospital. He had been living at Garrett for several years where he was employed as mine foreman for the Elkhorn Coal Corporation. Mr. Cecil came to Johnson County from Ohio a good many years ago and was at one time employed by the North East Coal Company at Thealka. The Paintsville Furniture Company's undertaking department took the body to Garrett where it remained in the home overnight. Then the body was removed to Wellston, Ohio for burial Tuesday in the family cemetery there. Mr. Cecil is survived by his wife and a brother, Oscar Cecil. The latter lives at Van Lear. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY SEPT 16 1937

 
MELVIN, Jesse
1937
LOCAL MAN FOUND DEAD JESSE MELVIN DIES IN FALL FROM SOUTHSIDE BRIDGE.
Jesse Melvin, age about 63, was found dead in Paint Creek about 7:45 Wednesday morning. The body was lying in a pool of water about five feet from the lower side of the bridge from which he had fallen.  The creek bed at this point is almost a solid rock and the body was badly bruised and broken. One arm was broken, an ear was almost severed in addition to other cuts and bruises. There is a hole in the bridge almost directly over the spot where the body was picked up, and it is believed that Mr. Melvin either fell through this hole in the bridge or over the side. The body was taken to the undertaking department of the Mountain Furniture & Hardware Co., where it was prepared for burial, then removed to the home of his sister, Mrs. Kate Rice, in West Paintsville. Funeral services will be held Friday, with burial in the family lot in the Turner cemetery one mile west of Paintsville. Mr. Melvin was a well known man and had lived in Paintsville all his life.  He was unmarried. The body was discovered by Mr. Melvin’s brother, Robert, and laud McFaddin, who were in search for him after he did not come home Tuesday night. He had been seen crossing to the south side of the bridge about 11 o’clock at night. Roy Melvin and others about Melvin’s Grocery Store helped carry the body up from the creek bed. A coroner’s jury summoned by Dr. O. E. Johnson, Coroner, decided Mr. Melvin came to his death by “falling through or from the Southside bridge” He is survived by three brothers, Adam Melvin, Lexington, and Robert and Ick Melvin of Paintsville.  Also four sisters, Mrs. Kate Rice, Mrs. William Taylor, Mrs. Carie Roberts and Mrs. Janie Hager, all of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 2, 1937

 
PENNINGTON, Oraetta (Green)
1914-1937
Obituary
ORAETTA GREEN PENNINGTON
Daughter of Albert and Sarah Jane Green.  Born in Paintsville, Kentucky.  November 3, 1914. Age 22 years 10 months 17 days.  Died September 20, 1937.  Wife of Dennis Pennington.  She leaves behind Husband two children Father and Mother. This is my grandmother, she is buried in Paintsville at the Preston Cemetery.  Her stone dates are different than this, but this was found in Sarah Jane's belongings when she died, so I believe the dates of this would be correct.  Oraetta stone was purchased by her Mother-in-law and may be why they are different.

 
PRATER, Anna May (Daniel)
1937
ANNA MAY PRATER DEATH CLAIMS LOCAL WOMAN
FUNERAL SERVICES FOR MRS.PAUL PRATER HELD SUNDAY
Mrs. Anna May Prater, age 20, wife of Paul Prater of West Paintsville, died last Thursday, September 3. Mrs. Prater was formerly Miss Anna May Daniel.  She was a popular member of the younger set of Paintsville. Mr. and Mrs. Prater were married last December, and the death of Mrs. Prater was a severe blow to the young husband. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Mayo Memorial Church, in charge of the pastor, Dr. W.I. Canter. Burial was made in the Mayo Cemetery. Besides her husband she is survived by her mother, Mrs. Lena Daniel and numerous other relatives in the county. The pallbearers were Lloyd H. Preston, William C. Martin, W.C. Bailey, Estill Picklesimer, Eugene Daniel, Jr., T.H. Rhodes, Nevil Preston and Clarence Foster. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday September 9, 1937

 
ROBERTS, Mrs. B.F. (Hart)
1937
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. ROBERTS
PROMINENT LOCAL WOMAN DIED THURSDAY.
Mrs. B. F. Roberts, prominent local woman died at her home in Paintsville at 10 o’clock last Thursday night.  She had been ill for the past several weeks and her death was not unexpected, although a shock to her family and friends. The Roberts came to Paintsville in 1919 and became prominent in social and political affairs.  Mrs. Roberts was a prominent Democrat and had been honored on several occasions by her party.  She was enrolling clerk during the past session of the Kentucky Legislature. Mrs. Roberts was interested in church and educational work.  She organized the Parent-Teachers Association here and served as the first president.  She was also interested in public welfare and did valuable work in this section. Funeral services were conducted from the Roberts home at 9:30 Saturday morning.  Rev. W. I. Canter, pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church was in charge of the services. A quartette composed of R. C. Thomas, William Bradley, Mrs. C. M. Hager and Mrs. Delmas Preston rendered appropriate vocal music. Mrs. Delmas Preston sang a solo, “End of a Perfect Day.” Following the funeral here the body was taken to Olympia, Ky., for burial in the family cemetery there.  Olympia is the old home of the Roberts family. Mrs. Roberts is survived by her husband, Ben F. Roberts, C & O Agent at Paintsville, three daughters, Mrs. W. A. Toney, Jr., Mrs. Ernest Irvin and Miss Myra Roberts, all of Paintsville.  She is also survived by her mother, Mrs. Lucy Hart of Olympia, one half brother, R. S. Hart, Middleton, Ohio, two brothers, E. A. Swartz, Preston, Ky., and Fay Swartz of Olympia, Ky. Paintsville Herald Thursday October 7, 1937

   
VANHOOSE, Hester Ann (Auxier)
1937
AGED WOMAN DIED SUNDAY MRS. JESS VANHOOSE AGE 69, VICTIM OF TYPHOID
Mrs. Jess VanHoose, 69 years old, Staffordsville died at noon Sunday from the lingering effects of typhoid suffered about a year ago. Mrs. VanHoose was one of the best Christian women in the county and had been a member of the methodist Church for many years. She was the daughter of the late George W. Auxier.  She was born at East Point, KY. She is survived by her husband, Jess VanHoose, two daughters, Mrs. Buel Lemaster, Barboursville, WV., and Mrs. Frank Pelphrey, Volga; three sons, Dewey VanHoose, Manila, George VanHoose, Staffordsville, and Bert VanHoose, Charleston, WV; brothers, William Auxier, DeLand, FL; Link Auxier, Paintsville, Samuel Auxier, Manila; and Garfield Auxier of Manila; Millard Auxier of Fall City, Neb.; sisters, Mrs Wilson Rice, Manila and Mrs. Martha Vaughan of Paintsville. Funeral services were held monday at the home about a mile above the mouth of Barnetts Creek on Paint Creek, KY.  Revereds John Prater and Alonzo Reed.  Burial was in the Auxier Cemetery at Manila, Monday afternoon. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEB 3, 1937


NOTE: The death certificate (28733) for Hester Vanhoose states she died Sep. 26 1937



OCTOBER - 1930

BLAND, Morris
1937
MORRIS BLAND SHOT IN HEART
Floyd Allen, 18, Held To Grand Jury On $1,000 Bond. Morris Bland, 42 years old, former deputy sheriff of Johnson County during the administration of W. M. Preston, was shot through the heart at midnight Saturday night on Depot Road, allegedly by Floyd Allen, 18, of the local Civilian Conservation Corps. He died immediately before medical aid could be summoned. Bland, alleged to have been drinking, was said to have cursed Allen and another CCC enrollee, Thomas Robinett, 21, and started across the road toward them carrying an opened knife in his hand. Leck Baldwin, night watchman for F. S. VanHoose & Company and other business firms in Bridgford, was a witness to the shooting. Heber Ward, night chief of the police, was one of the first to arrive on the scene following the shooting.  Chief Ward said evidence given at a Coroner’s trial showed that Bland was approaching Allen in a threatening manner with a open knife when Allen is said to have fired the fatal shot. Robinett was taken into custody later Saturday night by Chief Ward and assistants. Allen it is said, went to his home in Magoffin County but called for Sheriff Fred Adams of Johnson County to come after him. He was brought back to Paintsville Sunday by Sheriff Adams. Bland was married and has several children. Funeral services for Bland were held Tuesday morning.  Rev. Arthur Gullett and Rev. Raleigh Long conducted the services. The body was prepared for burial by the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday Oct. 28, 1937

 
BUTLER, Barnes
1937
JAILER KILLS HIMSELF
Barnes Butler Also Seriously Wounds His WIfe.
Barnes Butler, 56 years old, for the past four years Jailer of Lawrence county, seriously wounded his wife, 46, early last Thursday evening and then ended his own life with a bullet from a 32-20 pistol through the head. The shooting occurred at about 6:30 in kitchen of the Jailer's home shorty after after prisoners had been fed their evening meal. Mrs. Butler told local officials that her husband walked into the kitchen and opened fire on her. He fired three times, two of the bullets taking effect, one through the arm and one in the chest. Butler, the wife said, then turned as if to leave the room, lifted the revolver and fired a bullett into his own head just above the right ear. He died instantly. Mr. Butler was born in Johnson county where he is well known. He is a brother of Colfax Butler of Paintsville. Lawrence county authorities have advanced the theory that Butler was mentally deranged. He is survived by his widow, Semia Steele Butler; three daughters, Mrs. Bud Boggs of Blevins, Ky., and Misses Esther and Elaine Butler, at home, three sons, Carl, Samuel and Colfax Butler, at home, and three brothers, Raleigh of Blaine, Colfax Butler of Paintsville, and Robert Butler of Los Angeles, California. Funeral services and burial took place at the Boggs Cemetery Saturday near his former home on Cherokee Creek, twenty miles from Louisa. The Louisa lodge of Odd Fellows officiated at the rites. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-4-1937

 
CONLEY, Howard
1937-1937
CONLEY BABY BROUGHT HERE FOR BURIAL
Howard Conley, 17-day-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Willard Conley of Ashland, died last Saturday morning, and the body was brought to Paintsville for burial. Paintsville Herald Wednesday November 4, 1937

 
FISHER, Harry
1937
HARRY FISHER HARRY FISHER, 45,
DIED SUNDAY NIGHT BY OWN HAND.
Harry Fisher, age 45, prominent citizen of Van Lear, shot and killed himself at his home there Sunday night. Mr. Fisher went into the bathroom and fired a load from an automatic shot gun into his body.  Death was almost instantaneous. The cause of Mr. Fisher’s rash act is not known, but it is believed that despondency over home affairs was responsible for the deed. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher were born in Pennsylvania but came to Van Lear twenty-four years ago where Mr. Fisher has been connected with the Consolidation Coal Company working in various capacities.  At the time of his death he was tipple foreman for the company and was paid a good salary.  Money matters were evidently not the cause of his taking his own life. It is said that Mr. Fisher called his youngest son, Harry Edward, 13, into his room and intimated the course he expected to take.  He had made a will naming his youngest son as the sole beneficiary. The elder Fisher, it is said, is heir to considerable real estate in his old home in Pennsylvania.  The death of Mr. Fisher was a shock to the citizens of Van Lear. Funeral services were held at 3:30 Wednesday afternoon at the Van Lear M.E. Church, and were in charge of Reverend Everman, the pastor.  Burial followed in the J.B. Wells Cemetery in Bridgford Addition. The Paintsville Furniture Company prepared the body for burial. Mr. Fisher is survived by his wife and three daughters, Mrs. “Slim” Rose, Williamson, W. Va., Mrs. Douglas Smith and Miss Annebelle Fisher of Van Lear; two sons, James and Harry Edward, at home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday October 28, 1937

 
KITCHEN, John W.
1937
STROKE FATAL TO KITCHEN
Ashland Banker and Business Man Dies At Age 59
John W. Kitchen, 59, President of the Second National Bank of Ashland and a leader in many other business organizations, died suddenly from a heart attack Monday afternoon at White Sulphur Springs, W. Va. He was with John E. Buckingham, State Treasurer; Congressman A. J. May and Dan Talbott of Kentucky on a trip in West Virginia after having attended the dedication of a new tipple at Wayland, Ky. Death came almost immediately after Mr. Kitchen had eaten a hearty meal.  He was sitting in the hotel lobby talking with Congressman May when the attack came. Funeral services were to be held Thursday in Ashland. Paintsville Herald 10-21-1937

 
PICKLESIMER, William Alfred
1937
Picklesimer Child Is Taken By Death
William Alfred Picklesimer, son of Emerson and Lillie May Picklesimer, died at their home at Vanceburg, Ky., October 27 at 11:15 P.M. He was 3 years 10 months and 28 days old.  He leaves to mourn their loss a father, mother, 4 brothers and a twin sister all of Vanceburg, Lewis County, Ky. He was buried at Asa, Johnson County, Kentucky, October 30, 1937.  Mr. and Mrs. Picklesimer formerly lived at Asa where they were both teachers in the public schools of Johnson County. Paintsville Herald  Thursday  November 11, 1937

 
RICE, Hugh
1937
HUGH RICE, 16 TRAIN VICTIM
Local Youth Killed On Kenova, W. Va., Bridge
Hugh Allen Rice, age 16, was run over and instantly killed on the Kenova, W. Va., bridge last Thursday morning, October 14. Young Rice was a son of Mr. And Mrs. Mose Rice who reside on Rockhouse near Paintsville, and the news of his untimely death was a severe chock to his family and friends in this section. The youth had been visiting relatives in Ohio and was en route to the home of his uncle in Ashland. The bridge has two railroad tracks and according to information reaching here Mr. Rice became confused and stepped from the path of a passing train into the path of a passenger train.  The train did not crush the body but the impact crushed the back of his hand and a slight bruise was discernable on the forehead. Following the accident his family was notified and an ambulance of the Paintsville Furniture Company brought the body to Paintsville for funeral and burial. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church at Paintsville.  Rev. Slone, Rev. Millard VanHoose and Rev. J.L. Harrington were in charge of the services. Mr. Rice was a popular young man and well known in this section.  He attended the Paintsville High School last year and was interested in athletics. He is survived by his father and mother, Mr. And Mrs. Mose Rice, two brothers, Henry Rice, who is attending school at Memphis, Tenn., and Charles Clay Rice who is in the U. S. Army, stationed at Fort Harrison, Ind.; three sisters, Mrs. Bill Harrington of Paintsville, and Martha Gene and Mary Lou Rice at home.  He leaves many relatives throughout Johnson County. A large number of people attended the funeral and burial. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday Oct. 21, 1937

 
RICE, Julia (VanHoose)
1937
DEATH CLAIMS AGED WOMAN
Mrs. Julia Rice, 74, Died Saturday Afternoon Julia Rice, aged and respected woman of Southside Addition, died at her home there last Saturday afternoon at about 5:30, following an illness of four or five months from Bright’s disease.  Mrs. Rice was a member of a prominent Johnson county family formerly Miss Julia VanHoose. She was 74 years old at the time of her death. Mrs. Rice was one of the best loved women in this section.  She was very industrious and had the respect of her neighbors.  Left a widow in 1906, she raised and educated six fine boys and girls who are among the county’s best citizens. Although her death had been expected for two weeks it was nevertheless a great shock to the family. She was the widow of James Harvey Rice who died 31 years ago. Mrs. Rice is survived by five children, Irvin Rice, Everett Rice, Mrs. Cecil Preston, Mrs. Eugene F. Conley, all of Paintsville, and Mrs. Jay Wilson of Huntington, W. Va; two brothers, Jackson VanHoose of Paintsville, and John Z. VanHoose of Nippa, also one sister, Mrs. Hemma Sublett of Southside.  She is also survived by several grand children, two of whom, James Milam and Nevagene Baldwin, made their home with Mrs. Rice. Mrs. Rice was the mother of Captain Warren Rice who was killed in the Argonne Forest during the World War. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church at 2 o’clock Monday afternoon.  Rev. Millard VanHoose and Rev. H. B. Conley were in charge of the services.  Burial in the VanHoose cemetery near the C. & O. depot in Bridgford. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday Nov. 4, 1937

 
VANHOOSE, Emma Gertrude (Hall)
1937
DEATH CLAIMS LOCAL WOMAN MRS.EMMA VAN HOOSE
DIES AFTER 2 YEARS ILLNESS.
Mrs. Emma Gertrude Hall VanHoose, age 25, died at her home on Highland Avenue, Paintsville, Wednesday evening, October 20.  She had been ill for two years. Mrs. Hall was the wife of Clarence VanHoose and the daughter of K.P. Hall and Hulda Hall. Besides her husband and parents she is survived by one daughter and three brothers, Everett, Preston Junior, and Freddie Hall, all at home, and a large number of relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church. Reverend Millard VanHoose was in charge of the services. Burial in the Mayo Cemetery. Flower girls at the funeral and burial were: Mona Marie and Mary Elizabeth Stapleton, May Stricklin, Charline Fox, Mary Louise and Helen Jean Lyon, Velma McGinnis, Betsy Nelson, June Lavender, June Spencer and Juanita Vanover. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday October 28, 1937

 
WHEELER, D. J.
1937
D.J. WHEELER STROKE VICTIM
Paintsville Attorney Died Suddenly Sunday Evening.
D. J. Wheeler, age 70, for the past 39 years a prominent attorney of Paintsville, died  suddenly at his home on Main Street, Sunday evening at 9:30 o'clock Death was  attributed to a stroke of apoplexy. Mr. Wheeler suffered a slight stroke about five years ago and has been in ill health since  that time.  He had been in good spirits during the day and members of the family said he  had felt better than usual.  He had retired early Sunday evening and was later found  unconscious in his room and died before medical aid could be summoned. Mr. Wheeler has always been known as a good citizen.  He was a member of the M. E.  Church and took a leading part in religious affairs of his church. Funeral services were held at the M. E. Church Wednesday in charge of the pastor, Rev.  Garland. Burial was made in the family lot in Mayo Cemetery. Mr. Wheeler was one of the county's most prominent citizens and had served in various  capacities from Master Commissioner of the Johnson County Court for sixteen years to  Police Judge.  He was elected to the latter office in 1930. At an early age Mr. Wheeler engaged in law in Magoffin County.  In 1897 he moved to  Johnson County where he continued to practice his profession. He was a member of the City Council for about twenty years. Born on Franks Creek, Johnson County, January 17, 1868, Mr. Wheeler was the son of  the late Stephen Wheeler and Elizabeth Chandler Wheeler. In 1892 he was married to Miss Pauline M. Cooper, daughter of the late Judge A. P.  Cooper of Cyrus, Ky.  Who survives. Mr. Wheeler is also survived by the following children, Mrs. W. T. Davis, Ashland;  Orion Clarence, Hannibal and Bruce Wheeler of Paintsville.  Brothers who survive are,  Lafayette Wheeler of Lucasville, Ohio, Charles Wheeler, Wheelersburg, KY; and J. C.  Wheeler, Lacy, KY.  The following grandchildren also survive, Anna, Mac, Billie and  Jimmie Davis of Ashland; Peggy, Charles, Orion and Barbara Ann Wheeler.   Dannie  Wheeler of Paintsville and Charles Virgil Wheeler who is now in Texas; Norma Jean,  Nancy Pauline.  Hannibal Wheeler, Jr. and Harry Wheeler of Paintsville. Active pallbearers were Don C. VanHoose.  C. F. Pace, C. F. Pace, W. W. Robinson,  Claude Buckingham, Earl Walker, and Wm. Burgess. Services were conducted by the reverends H. B Conley, J. J. Pintar and Rev. Garland,  pastor of the United M. E. Church. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-14-1937



NOVEMBER - 1930
BURNS, Milton S.
1937
Louisa Man, Dies of Heart Attack
Services Tuesday For Milton S. Burns  Milton S. Burns, 81, retired Louisa attorney and banker, died unexpectedly at his home. Saturday night, of a heart attack. He was born at Prestonsburg and had practiced as an attorney here for 55 years. He aided in organizing the First National Bank of Louisa and served as it president for twenty years, retiring last May. Funeral services were held at 2:30p.m.Tuesday at the home, with burial in Pine Hill Cemetery. He is survived by two daughters; Mrs. S.G. Wellman; and Mrs. Lizzie Burns Lindsay, both of Louisa. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 14, 1937

 
LEMASTER, Clarice (Coldiron)
1863-1937
Clarice Lemaster was born April 2, 1863, the daughter of Hiram and Rebecca Coldiron, and was united in marriage to James M. Lemaster on August 7, 1881.  To this union were born seven children, John T. Lewis, Bell and Willie, deceased. Surviving her are Allie Crider, Bee Lavin and Bess Hinkle and J. H. Lemaster; also ten grandchildren and two sisters and one brother. She united with the Baptist Church forty years ago and lived a devoted Christian life to the end.  She died on November 2, 1937, at the age of 74 years and 7 months. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 11, 1937

 
LEMASTER, Matthew R.
1937
M.R. LEMASTER DIED AT AGE 84
Uncle of Mrs. Cooper Was Native of Barnetts Creek.
Matthew R. Lemaster, 84 years old, native of Barnetts Creek, died at his home near Yatesville, Lawrence County, Sunday after a short illness. Mr. Lemaster was the uncle of Mrs. O.C. Cooper of Paintsville and Milton Lemaster of Barnetts Creek. Mr. Lemaster was a son of the late Francis and Mary Elam Lemaster and spent the latter part of his life in Lawrence county. His wife, Mrs. Louise Lemaster, died 24 years ago. He is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Ben F. Bently of Yatesville, Ky.; Mrs. Will Ratcliff, of Los Angeles, Calif., and Mrs. Barney Wellman, of Fort Gay, W. Va.; one son John Lemaster, of Louisa, and one sister, Miss Kit Lemaster, of Barnetts Creek. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 18, 1937

 
MULLINS, Boyd Worth
1937
BOY, 8, LIKES SMELL OF GAS; LOSES LIFE
Because he liked the smell of gas and knew nothing of its deadly effects, Boyd Worth Mullins, 8 years old, son of Mr. and Mrs. Will Mullins of Keaton, is dead.  The youth was missing only a short time from his home last Friday afternoon when he was found unconscious near a gas pump in the yard of his home.  The boy was rushed to the Paintsville Hospital where Dr. Paul B. Hall said he had been dead about ten minutes.  It was said that the little fellow, who had been raised up in the gas field, always had enjoyed the smell of fumes from gas wells.  Apparently he had been purposely inhaling the gas fumes and had become unconscious from the effects. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 11, 1937

 
MUNCY, Mrs. Earl (Walters)
1937
MRS. MUNCY VICTIM OF TUBERCULOSIS
DAUGHTER OF EARNEST WALTERS OF BOONS CAMP, LEAVE INFANT CHILDREN
Mrs. Earl Muncy, 22, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Earnest Walters of Boons Camp, died Monday at the home of her parents after having been sick several months.  She was a victim of tuberculosis. Mrs. Muncy leaves her husband and three small children, the youngest, Rena Mae, three weeks old.  The other children are James Alfred, 4, and Nannie Reble, 2.  Also she is survived by her parents and the following brothers and sisters; Mrs. Glenn Arrowood of Wayne, W. Va.; Mrs. George Dutton, Wayne, W. Va.; Edgar Walters, Wayne, W. Va.; Allen Walters, Boons Camp; Lee Walters, Kenova, W. Va.; Mrs. Martha Sammons, Meally, Ky.; Mrs. Everett McDowell, Miss Lizzie Ellen Walters and Miss Alkie Walters of Boons Camp. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church for several years. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday by Rev. Winifrey Meek and Rev. Lafe Preston. Paintsville Herald Thursday December 2, 1937

 
PRESTON, J.C.
1881-1937
PROMINENT CITIZEN MAN VICTIM OF HEART ATTACK FRIDAY
J. C. Preston, 56, died suddenly from a heart attack last Friday at his home on Buffalo Creek at Meally.  He was one of the county's most prominent citizens and had been a member for many years of the Johnson County Board of Education, where he served with distinction. Mr. Preston had suffered a heart attack about a year ago and had been treated by specialists in Lexington and in Ironton, Ohio.  Although his health had been poor since the attack he was not thought to be in serious danger. He had gone about his daily tasks the same as usual Friday, and as was his custom after eating dinner he had laid down for a rest. When he got up he walked ten or fifteen feet and slumped to the floor unconscious.  He died immediately without uttering a word. Mr. Preston was born January 5, 1881 on Buffalo.  He was the son of the late Samuel Preston and Mrs. Elizabeth Murray Preston.  He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Zilphia Ward Preston and one daughter, Mrs. Charles E. Preston of Paintsville, and one brother, Tip Preston of Meally. He had been a member of the United Baptist Church for more than twenty years and had been an ardent worker in church affairs.  Funeral services were conducted at 10 o'clock Sunday in the United Baptist Church house in front of his home. Rev. Lafe Preston, Rev. Leonard Walters, and Rev. Elzie Banks preached.  He was burried in the Preston Cemetery on the hill overlooking the valley where he had spent his entire life from childhood.  Mr. Preston was one of the best known men of the county and was beloved by his many friends. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday 12-2-1937

 
RICE, Reuben
1937
Aged Man Dies In Burning Home
Reuben Rice, 75, was burned to death early Sunday morning at his home at Mt. Sterling when his bed caught fire. Neighbors were aroused by the odor of smoke and found the aged man in his bed, which was a mass of flames. He died before they could get him to the hospital. It was believed Mr. Rice had pulled his bed too close to a lighted gas stove. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY NOVEMBER 25, 1937

 
SALYER, Claud
1937
Claud Salyer Died Sunday
Prominent Johnson County Man Had Been Ill 4 Years
Claud Salyer, 63 years old, prominent Johnson County farmer and one of this section's best citizens, died at his home near Flat Gap at Midnight Sunday.  He had been ill for four years and had been in a serious condition the past year from paralysis. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mary Brown Salyer and the following children; H.C. Salyer, Paintsville; Walter Salyer, Langley; Mrs. Eulas Williams, Paintsville, and Oliver Salyer, Flat Gap. Mr. Salyer was the son of the late H.C. Salyer and was born and raised in Johnson County. Funeral services were conducted at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning. Burial was in the family cemetery at Flat Gap. Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-2-1937

 
TRIMBLE, W. J.
1937
W.J. TRIMBLE DIED SUNDAY
Brother of Paris Trimble Was One of County’s Best Men  W.J. Trimble, 72 years old brother of Paris Trimble, candidate for Sheriff in the recent Primary died at his home on Barnetts Creek Sunday. He was the brother-in-law of Frank J. Conley of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Mr. Trimble was one of the county’s best citizens and was a well-to-do farmer. He had been in poor health for several months and had been seriously ill for the past three weeks. He was a victim of heart trouble. Besides his brother Paris, Mr. Trimble is survived by another brother, Shell Trimble; his wife, Mrs. Sola Gertrude Trimble; three sons, Paris Trimble of Barnetts Creek, James Trimble and John Trimble of Van Lear; three daughters, Mrs. G. E. Hall, Grunda, Va.; Mrs Florence Ellen Blair, Barnetts Creek and and Miss Gilla Trimble, Barnetts Creek, and a sister, Mrs. Deale Pelphrey of Manila. Mr. John Trimble was a son of the late John G. Trimble, a well-known stock trader of Johnson County. He had been a member of the United Baptist Church for many years. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday by the Rev. Milliard O’Brien, and the Rev. John Daniel. Burial was in the family cemetery at Barnetts Creek. The Undertaking Department of the Paintsville Furniture Company handled the body. Paintsviulle Herald Thursday 11-25-1937

 
WALKER, Fred
1937
FORMER LOCAL CITIZEN DIES IN WEST
Heart Attack Fatal To Fred Walker, of Wenatchee, Wash.
Word has been received by relatives in Paintsville apprising them of the death of Fred Walker which occurred at his home in Wenatchee, Washington, Tuesday, November 10. Mr. Walker had retired on the night of his death apparently in his usual good health and was found dead in bed next morning. He died from a heart attack, members of his family believe. Mr. Walker was a former resident of this county, and was a son of the late Foster and Kate Davis Walker. He was 64 years old at the time of his death. Mr. Walker left Paintsville 30 years ago and located in Wenatchee where he soon became an employee of the Great Northern Railroad and would have retired from service in 1940. He had been a member of the Christian Church for more than 40 years. Mr. Walker’s wife died in January of this year. He is survived by the following children: Mrs. Elizabeth VanHoose, Mrs. Josie Preston, Mrs. Florence Huff, and Kirk Walker, all of Wenatchee, and one sister, Mrs. Della Dixon, of Paintsville, who is now critically ill and has not been apprised of her brother’s death. A half sister, Miss Esta Walker, also resides in Paintsville. Burial was made in Wenatchee where he was prominent in lodge circles. He was the oldest member of the I.O.O.F. Lodge in Wenatchee. Mr. Walker spent six weeks visiting relatives in this county during the summer. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY NOV 23, 1937


DECEMBER - 1937
ADAMS, Lena (Collins)
1883-1937
STROKE FATAL TO MRS. ADAMS
JOHNSON COUNTY WOMAN DIED IN STUMBO HOSPITAL.
Mrs. Will Adams, 54 years old, native of Johnson County, died Saturday morning in the Stumbo Hospital at Lackey following a paralytic stroke. She had moved from Paintsville to Martin, Ky., six years ago. Her husband is a brother of Garrett Adams of Paintsville. Besides her husband she is survived by four children, Will Adams, Jr., of Wayland; Mrs. Charles Nelson, Paintsville; John Wiley Adams and Marion Adams at home; five sisters: Mrs. Frank Stafford, Paintsville; Mrs. Jeff Coleman, Garrett; Mrs. G. C. Carter, Sharples, W. Va.; Mrs. Rosa Webb, Charleston, W. Va., and Lillian Hall, Pikeville; two brothers, Robert Collins, Carpenter, Ohio and Crate Collins, Glo, Ky. Mrs. Adams was a member of the Mayo Memorial Church where funeral services were conducted Thursday afternoon by Rev. W.J. Canter, Rev. H.B. Conley, and Rev. C.C. Newsome. Rev. Newsome is from Martin. Burial was in the Mayo Cemetery. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday December 9, 1937
 
MRS. LENA COLLINS ADAMS Mrs. Lena Collins Adams, wife of Mr. Will Adams of Martin, Ky., was stricken with a stroke of paralysis at her home early Saturday morning, December 4, and died at the Stumbo Hospital at Lackey Monday, December 6. Mrs. Adams, the daughter of Bud and Lydia Collins, was born Sept. 10, 1883, at Paintsville. Both parents have preceded her in death. She was married to Will Adams January 26, 1903, by Burns Conley at Thealka, Ky., and to this union eight children were born, four of whom died in infancy. Surviving are her husband, three children. John Wiley and Mary Joe at home, Mrs. Charles Nelson, Paintsville, and Bill Adams, Estill, Ky., one grandchild, Billie Nelson, and the following brothers and sisters:  Crate Collins, Glo, Ky.; Robert Collins, Carpenter, Ohio; Mrs. Grover Carter, Sharpels, W. Va.; Mrs. C.B. Johnson and Mrs. Rosa Warkinson, Charleston, W. Va.; Mrs. Jeff Coleman, Garrett, Ky., and Mrs. Frank Stafford, Paintsville. From her childhood she had worked in the Baptist Church, but in 1910 she changed her membership to the M.E. Church, South, at Paintsville, working faithfully in the church until she moved to Mortin seven years ago. From that time until death her health had been failing and she was unable to do as much as she wished. Her friendly disposition and her ability to assist in time of distress won her many friends. Her religious sincerity was an inspiration to all those with whom she came in contact, leaving the remembrance of one who lived a short, useful life for those she loved. Paintsville Herald Thursday December 16, 1937

 
CHILDERS, Mrs. William (Collier)
1937
Mrs. Childers Is Taken By Death
DAUGHTER OF LATE SAMUEL COLLIER,
DIED AFTER UNDERGOING OPERATION
Mrs. William Childers, Paintsville, died Tuesday morning at the Paintsville Hospital following an operation. She was the daughter of the late Samuel Collier of Ashland and a sister of E. C. Collier of the Ashland Police Department who formerly managed the Kroger Store in Paintsville. The body was prepared for burial by the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company and was taken to Ashland for burial. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY DEC 23 1937

 
DANIEL, Marriah
1937
MRS. DANIEL DIES AT AGE OF 77
WIDOW OF AUGUSTUS DANIEL, UNITED BAPTIST PREACHER,
PASSES AT LOWMANSVILLE
Mrs. Marriah Daniel, 77 years old, widow of the late Augustus Daniel, United Baptist preacher, died at Lowmansville December 30 from infirmities of age. She is survived by five sons, Paris Daniel, Pub Daniel, John Daniel, Ned and Floyd Daniel and two daughters, Nervina and Thursa.  Her husband died 31 years ago. Burial arrangements were handled by the Mountain Furniture & Hardware Company.  Burial was Saturday, January 1. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 01/06/1938

 
GREEN, Ellen
1937
BLAINE MRS. GREEN DIES AFTER LONG ILLNESS
Mrs. Ellen Green, 78, wife of the late Garfield Green, died Thursday at her home near Davisville from a lingering case of tuberculosis.  Mrs. Green had been confined to her bed for more than a year. Surviving are her children; Hobart, Manda, and Gracie Green and Mrs. Jess Wheeler, all of Davisville. Last rites were held at the home, Thursday, with Rev. G. V. Cordle officiating and interment was made in the family buring ground at Franks Creek. Dec. 30, 1937

 
HAGER, Frank P.
1874-1937
FRANK P. HAGER
Striking swiftly and without warning, death early Wednesday morning claimed Frank P. Hager, 63, at his home on Fourth Street. Word of his sudden passing spread quickly to his legion of friends throughout the Big Sandy Valley, who received the sad news with genuine expressions and sorrow. Mr. Hager in his usual good health and had visited numerous places of business over the City and Talked with old acquaintances, swapping jokes with them the afternoon prior to his death. Shortly after arriving home on Tuesday night, he complained of a severe attack of the stomach. Dr. Paul B. hall was called and gave him some immediate relief.  His condition improved and he became cheerful and talkative.  It is said he related many pleasant reminiscences of by-gone days. After retiring for the night, he suffered another severe attack, and his neighbors, friends and Dr. Hall were called.  His lifeless body was found by them when he failed to answer. Death was attributed to a heart attack. Mr. Hager belonged to one of the most prominent and influential families of Eastern Kentucky, who were pioneers of the Big Sandy Valley. In his younger days, he was a salesman of repute. As salesman he was connected with the Payne Shoe Co., of Charleston, W. Va.  After serving his relations with this concern he became salesman for a large clothing firm of Cincinnati, and later traveled for one of the larges Jewelry Concerns of the South.  In this connection, he had an enviable record.  His travels covered practically every state east of the Mississippi. After having traveled practically every county in the State and gained innumerable acquaintances, he was urged to run for State Treasurer. Being of the Jovial cheerful and good nature that he always reserved he consented and came out in the interest of the Democratic Party, as a candidate for this office. He was defeated only by a small margin. Later he made the race for State Auditor and was defeated by a small majority. In 1927, he announced himself for Secretary of State and also, ran for this office and met defeat. Mr. Hager was one of Paintsville’s best citizens and his friends were numbered by his acquaintances.  He was jovial, cheerful, and a friend to all and especially he was a friend to the youth of our community.  His name was more familiarly known to them as “Tim”. Mr. Hager was born in Johnson County, Kentucky, April 26, 1874.  Son of B F. and Julia Sherman Hager.  He had been a member of the M. E. Church South for thirty-five years. His death bereaves his widow, Mrs. Callie Preston Hager, one son, Lieutenant Frank P. Hager, Jr., of San Diego, California, who is stationed there in the United States Marine Corps; also one sister, Ada Prindible and one brother, Edward E. Hager, both of Fort Pierce, Florida. Funeral services were held at the Mayo Memorial Church, Friday afternoon at 2:00 o’clock with burial following at the Preston Cemetery. Rev. W. I. Canter, Pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church officiated. Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-2-1937

 
HANEY, Loudena (Foster)
1937
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. HANEY
West Paintsville Woman Victim of Diabetes
Mrs. Loudena Haney, age 46, died at her home in West Paintsville on Thursday, December 9, after an illness of five years from diabetes.  She was the wife of Floyd Haney, Sr., and was the mother of ten children, seven of whom survive. Mrs. Haney was a good Christian mother, well known and well beloved in her community.  Her death brings grief, not only to her immediate family but to those who knew her best. Besides her husband she is survived by the following Children: Mrs. Eva Montgomery, Mrs. Ina Risner, Mrs. Bessie Ward, Mrs. Leona Webb, Miss Maggie Haney, Buck Haney and Bill Haney. Her mother, Mrs. Caroline Foster, died six months ago. Paintsville Herald Wednesday Dec 23, 1937

 
MEADE, Margaret (Castle)
1937
Heart Attack Fatal To Aged County Woman
Margaret Castle Meade died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Marion Collins, at Powell, Ohio, Saturday night, December 11, 1937.  She had been in Ohio for a month on a visit with her daughter.  She resided with her son-in-law, John Stanley, and was stricken while in Ohio.  Her death was attributed to a heart attack. Mrs. Meade was a member of a large Johnson county family and was the daughter of the late Andrew J. Castle.  She was married to Charles Bush and to this union were born 12 children, six of whom survive.  They are Mrs. Sherman Gullett and Mrs. Bob Meade, both of Paintsville; Mrs. Marion Collins of Powell, Ohio; Mrs. Frank Williams, of McDowell, Ky.; Mrs. John Stanley, Thealka, Ky., and John Bush of Ohio.  She is also survived by two brothers, Thos. J. Castle of Paintsville and Charles Castle of Ohio.  She is also survived by numerous relatives and many descendants.  She was 88 years old at the time of her death. Mrs. Meade was the daughter of Mrs. Linday Castle who is reputed to have attained an age of 100 years. She was twice married.  Her first husband died about twenty years ago and she later married Levi Meade who also preceded her in death. Short services were held at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Sherman Gullett in charge of Rev. F. F. Riggsby. Burial followed on the Gullett farm. She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Because of the bad condition of the roads and inclement weather few relatives were able to attend and it was decided to hold the funeral at the Freewill Baptist Church at a later date. Paintsvilel Herald Thursday 12-16-1937

 
PENLEY, John
1937
Penley Dies On Greasy
Man Subject to Fits Thought to Have Frozen to Death
John Penley, 64 years old, formerly of Paintsville died about 3 o'clock Saturday afternoon near the home of Bud Meek on Greasy Creek, presumably following an attack of epilepsy.  An inquest was held by Magistrate Jeff Davis. Mr. Penley was subject to epileptic attacks and it was believed that he suffered an attack Saturday and froze to death before he was found by neighbors near the barn of Mr. Meek.   He had lived in and around Paintsville for several years but for sometime he had been making his home with his daughter, Mrs. Grover Meek and Mr. Meek on the " Bee" Branch of Greasy Creek. Besides his daughter Mr. Penley is survived by three sons, Henry, Steve and Woodrow of Paintsville. Burial was on Turkey Knob near Paintsville Monday afternoon, Funeral services were attended by Rev. E. L. Trusty. Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-16-1937

 
PRESTON, William Shadric "Will Frosty"
1937
Preston Dies At Age of 83
“Will Frosty” Was Prominent Thelma Farmer For Years
William Shadric Preston, 83 years old, known as “Will Frosty” died Tuesday, December 28 from intestinal tuberculosis, following a long illness.  He died at the home of his son, W. J. Preston, where he had lived for the past six years.  He had been in poor health for the last fifteen years. Mr. Preston, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Eliphus Preston, was married in 1876 to Miss Nancy Jane Travis who died forty years ago. Besides his son with whom he resided, Mr. Preston is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Malinda Preston Combs and eighteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.  Also, two half brothers, Sol Preston and John C. Preston of Mingo. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. U. S. Walters and Rev. L. T. Preston.  Burial was in the cemetery near the mouth of Bobbs Branch on the hill over looking the station at Bobbs Siding. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-6-1938

 
RICE, Bernice
1937
Death Calls Bernice Rice
Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. I. G. Rice Was Teacher For 12 Years
Miss Bernice Rice, 32 years old, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. I. G. Rice of Third Street, died Thursday night at the Paintsville Hospital from pneumonia. She had been at the hospital ten days having been taken there December 6. Miss Rice had taught in the Paintsville Schools for the past ten years. Before that she taught in the County Schools two years. She was one of the most popular and best loved teachers in the Big Sandy Valley and everyone who knew her felt a deep sense of loss at her passing. Miss Rice was converted and joined the Missionary Baptist Church in 1924 when she was 17. She was a graduate of the Paintsville High School and attended the University of Kentucky. Funeral services were held at the Missionary Baptist Church at 2 o’ clock Sunday afternoon. Burial was in the J. B. Wells Cemetery in Bridgeford addition. Funeral services were in charge of Rev. Sam Sloan. Musical selections were offered by a quartet composed of Mrs. Nelson Howard, Miss Esther Thomas, R. C. Thomas and Dr. H. G. Hazelrigg. At the request of the family, Mr. Thomas and Miss Thomas sang a duet that had been practiced and was to have been sung at the Sunday church services by Miss Rice and Miss Thomas. An unusually large crowd attended the funeral rites. Arrangements were handled by the Undertaking Department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Pallbearers were Dr. Darwin Slone, Glenn Powell, C. F. Walters, W. F. Spradlin, Irvin Arrowood and Fred M. Hefner, Members of the City Board of Education were honorary pallbearers. Miss Rice’s Sunday School class sat on the pulpit during services, and the teachers in the City Schools attended in a body. Besides her parents, Miss Rice is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Graham Harris of Prestonsburg, and Miss Mary Martha Rice of Paintsville, and three brothers, I. G. Rice, Jr., Ashland; Samuel M. Rice and Theodore Rice of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday December 23, 1937

 
RICHMOND, Arminta
1937
Inez Woman 82 Died Sunday
Mrs. Richmond Had Been Ill for Years;
Died at Son’s Home
Mrs. Arminta Richmond, 82 years old, died at the home of her son, W.B. Richmond in Inez, Sunday night. She had been an invalid for years and had not been out of her room for a year, it was said. She was the widow of the late “Uncle” Cass Richmond who died several years ago. The body was prepared for burial by J.A. Jones of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday by Reverends Gose and John Fairchild of Inez. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY DECEMBER 23, 1937

 
TURNER, Charles
1937
Man Buried No Ceremony
Charles Turner, 79 years old, died at his home on Oagland Creek, Knott County Friday  night " Uncle" Charles, Who was a bachelor, lived by himself and was well known  throughout the country for his peculiar ways and beliefs.  He had always said he wished  to be alone when he died and to be buried in a large box with plenty of room saying he desired no ceremony at the burying.  On Friday evening a neighbor went to Mr. Turner's  door asking if he needed anything and was told to return the next morning, as he did not  wish to be disturbed at that time.  He also requested that the door be broken down if he  did not respond when called. The next morning " Uncle " Charles failing to answer, the door was broken in by the  neighbors and he was found dead.  A coroner's jury gave the verdict of having frozen to  death. Burial was held Saturday morning near Mr. Turner's home close to two Indian graves,  where he had asked to be buried.  Only a few neighbors were present and no ceremony  was held. Paintsville  Herald Thursday 12-23-1937

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