1939    

JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
  HISTORICAL
  & GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
PAINTSVILLE, KENTUCKY

 
OBITUARY WEBSITE

  

1939
 


  JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
RELATED OBITUARIES
  1939
 
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JANUARY - 1939


BLANTON, S. L.
1939
Funeral Rites Held For S. L. Blanton at Volga Thursday
Funeral services were held Thursday for S. L. Blanton, age 81, who died at his home in Volga Tuesday. Mr. Blanton was one of the best known citizens of Johnson County and had served as Magistrate from his district for a number of terms. He was a leading Democrat of the County and had long taken an active part in county politics. He was a devout member of the United Baptist Church. "Uncle Sant" as he was known to his neighbors and friends, had been ill for more than a year and his death was attributed to complications incident to advanced age. Mr. Blanton was the father of Mrs. Verna Butler, Certifying Agent of Johnson County. A number of Paintsville relatives and friends of the family attended the funeral and burial. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Volga in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-26-1939


BROWN, Lewis
1939
LEWIS BROWN
Paralysis Fatal To Lewis Brown
Lewis Brown, 63 years old, died at his home at Lowmansville near the Johnson-Lawrence line Monday.  Although a citizen of Lawrence he was well known in Johnson County where he had numerous relatives and friends.  He was known as a good citizen and a prominent farmer and trader of the Lowmansville community. Mr. Brown was the father of Bill Brown, for many years an employee of the Standard Oil Company and located at Paintsville. Mr. Brown had been ill only a short time after suffering a stroke of paralysis.  He died Monday and funeral services were conducted Wednesday in charge of the Rev. Green Caudill.  Burial took place at Lowmansville in the family cemetery.  The Preston Funeral Home of Paintsville was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 19, 1939


BURTON, Flora (Davis)
1939
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. BURTON Chandlerville, Ky
Mrs. P. A. Burton of this place died Monday, January 2, 1939, following an illness of several months.  Besides her husband she is survived by two children, Miss Clara Burton at home and Glenn D. Burton of Paintsville, and one son Richard Burton; her aged parents, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Davis of Chandlerville; two sisters, Miss Colista Jane Davis of Chandlerville and Mrs. Amanda Ellen Davis of East Paintsville; one brother, E. W. Davis, of Erwin, Ohio, and a host of other relatives and friends throughout the county.  Mrs. Burton was a good Christian woman and will be missed by her family and the people of her community. Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-26-1939


CASTLE, Julia (Murphy)
1939
NIPPA WOMAN DIED FRIDAY
Mrs. Julia Castle, 82, Succumbs To Paralytic Stroke.
Mrs. Julia Murphy Castle, of Nippa, died last Friday at the Golden Rule Hospital, following a stroke of paralysis from which she never rallied. Mrs. Castle had long been prominent and respected in her neighborhood. She was 82 years old and was the last surviving member of a number of brothers and sisters of the Murphy family. Her husband had preceded her to the grave. Mrs. Castle was a sister of the late Crock Murphy of the Toms Creek section and of Robert Murphy who died in Paintsville several years ago. She was a devout Christian and she had been a member of the United Baptist Church for more than fifty years. She was possibly the oldest woman of her section. She was the mother of John Castle, chairman of the Johnson County Board of Education. Besides Mr. Castle she is survived by the following daughters; Mrs. Jemima Castle, Elemingsburg, Ky.; Mrs. Cora Fairchild and Mrs. Stella Saddler, Nippa, and Mrs. Belle Brown of River. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Saddler, at Nippa, in charge of Rev. Thurman Ferguson of the United Baptist Church. Burial was in the family cemetery at Nippa in charge of the Preston Funeral Home of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 19, 1939


CASTLE, Robert, Jr.
1939
Robert Castle, Age 7, Killed By Brother, 12 Robert Castle, Jr., age 7, was shot and instantly killed Monday by his brother, Russell Castle, age 12. The brothers were out hunting when the gun was accidently discharged.  A load of shot from a 12-guage shotgun entered the boy's right side, the shot ranging upward toward the heart. The brothers are sons of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Castle of Sitka, this county. The family, and especially the older brother, were almost prostrated over the accident. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 12, 1939


CHANDLER, Merida
1939
AGED CITIZEN DIED MONDAY
Member of Prominent Family Buried in Washington
Merida Chandler, member of a prominent Johnson County family, died Monday, January 16, at the Paintsville Clinic, after a short illness from pneumonia. Mr. Chandler was 67 years old. He was born in this county but up to a few years ago had spent the greater part of his time in the State of Washington where he held a responsible position with a railway company. Since his retirement from active duty he has spent the greater part of his time among the scenes of his boyhood days in this county. The body was prepared for burial by Guy W. Preston of the Preston Funeral Home and shipped to Hoquiam, Washington, to the home of his daughter, for burial. Funeral rites will be conducted there. His wife preceded him in death several years ago. Besides his daughter in Washington he is survived by three brothers, Attorney D. J. Chandler of Lowmansville, Ky.; Dr. T. J. Chandler, Wayland, Ky., and Dr. S. B. Chandler, of Charleston, W. Va. The later named is instructor in medicine at Charleston, having moved there from Chicago where he held a similar position. Mr. Chandler had many relatives and friends in this county who regret to learn of his passing. Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-19-1939


COLLINS, Elizabeth (Hatfield)
1921-1939
DEATH CLAIMS ODDS WOMAN
Odds, Ky.
Mrs. Elizabeth Hatfield Collins, well known woman of this place, died January 9,(1939). She was born in Floyd County, September 7, 1921, and was married to Perry Collins in 1937. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Anderson Hatfield, and is survived by her father and mother, three brothers, four sisters, her husband and a baby boy three months old. Funeral services were in charge of Rev. W. P. Collins. Burial in the family cemetery here. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 1-19-1939


CORDLE, Winfred
1855-1939
LAWRENCE MAN DIED SATURDAY
Winfred Cordle, age 83, died at his home in Cordell, Lawrence County, Saturday, January 7, 1939 at 7p. m.  He was a prominent farmer of that section and well known in Johnson County. Mr. Cordell was born at Blaine, July 31, 1855, but had resided at Cordell for the past 40 years where he operated a large farm.  He had been a member of the United Baptist Church for more than thirty years. His wife, Mrs. Mary J. Cordle died in 1933.  He is survived by five daughters, Miss Ella Cordle, Mrs. Charles Curnette and Mrs. M. M. Baker, all of Cordell; Mrs. J. H. Adams and Mrs. W. H. Cordle of Ashland, and six sons, Willie Cordle of Blaine, Russell, Sam and Leck Cordle of Ashland; Maynard Cordle of Cordell, and Monroe Cordle of Davisville, this county. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 12, 1939


FOSTER, Campbell
1939
DEATH CLAIMS WEST END MAN
Campbell Foster, age 68, died early Tuesday morning at his home in West Paintsville. Mr. Foster had been in failing health for a year but had been seriously ill for the past month. His death was due to cancer of the liver, attending physicians said. Mr. Foster moved here from Magoffin County about thirty years ago and was regarded as a good citizen. He was employed for several years as a meat cutter for Bird Webb. Besides his widow, Mrs. Alice (Litteral) Foster, he is survived by one son, James Foster. Funeral services were held at the home Wednesday afternoon and burial in the old Paintsville cemetery north of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-5-1939


GREEN, G. G.
1939
Johnson County Man  Dies at Catlettsburg Ky.
G. G. Green, well known Catlettsburg dairyman died last week at his home in Sandy City.  He had been in poor health for several months and his death was not unexpected. Mr. Green was a native of Johnson County.  He had made his home in Catlettsburg for the past twenty or thirty years.  He was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church of Catlettsburg. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Vina Craft Green, one son, Herbert Green of Catlettsburg, five brothers and four half brothers. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-2-1939


GRIM, Lewis
1939
COUNTY MAN DIED MONDAY
Lewis Grim, 67, Passes After Illness of 5 Years Lewis Grim, age 67, died at his home near Nippa postoffice Monday from a complication of diseases from which he ad suffered for five years. He was a prominent citizen of that section of the county and was the father of former Magistrate Milt Grim.  Eight other children survive. Funeral services were held Tuesday and a large crowd attended. The services were in charge of Rev. Millard VanHoose, Rev. Hurman Ferguson, Rev. Scott Daniel, Rev. Nath VanHoose, Rev. Fred Murray and others. Besides his widow, Mrs. Georgeann Grim, he is survived by the following children: Milt, Thurman, Ben and Walter Grim, all of Nippa; Ed Grim of Summerlee, W. Va.; Glenroe Grim, Fort Benjamin Harrison, Ind., Mrs. Bessie Picklesimer, Miss Madge and Miss Zelpha Grim, of Paintsville. Burial was made in the family cemetery on the home farm, in charge of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday  1-26-1939


HAGER, Callie (Preston)
1939
CALLIE HAGER
Mrs. Hager 60, Died Friday Prominent Woman Succumbs At Local Hospital.
Mrs. Callie Hager, age 60, died at the Paintsville Hospital last Friday at 4: 00 a.m. Mrs. Hager was one of Paintsville's most prominent women and had been active in church and social activities in Paintsville for many years and held the love and respect of hundreds of friends. Mrs. Hager was formerly Miss Callie Preston, and was the widow of Frank P. Hager, Sr., who died fourteen months ago. Mr. Hager was a prominent and successful businessman. At one time was a candidate for State Auditor on the Democratic ticket and received a heavy vote throughout the State. He was defeated by a small margin. Both Mrs. Hager and her late husband were members of two of Eastern Kentucky's prominent families. Mrs. Hager had been in declining health for the past two years, but had been seriously ill at the local hospital a month before her death. She is survived by one son, Frank P. Hager, Jr., who is a Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps with the U. S. S. Tennessee stationed at San Diego, California. Lieut. Hager was here for the funeral of his mother. Besides her only son she is survived by one brother, James C. Preston, of Washington, D.C. Mrs. Hager had been a member of the M. E. Church, South, in Paintsville since girlhood and was active in church affairs until a few years ago when her health failed. Funeral services were conducted at the Mayo Memorial Church Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock, and were attended by a large number of relatives and friends. Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor of the church, conducted the services. Burial was made in the family lot in the Preston Cemetery in east Paintsville. Active pallbearers were Russell Hager, Escom Chandler, Paul C. Hager, Robert McEldowney, Hopkins Preston, Dan Wheeler, Vernon Stambaugh and Clarence Preston. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday     January 26, 1939


MAY, Infant
1939
INFANT DIES FOLLOWING BIRTH IN PAINTSVILLE Asa, KY
An infant baby was born to Mrs. German May at the Paintsville Clinic, but died shortly  afterwards.  Mr. and Mrs. May have the sympathy of the people of this neighborhood.  The body was brought here for burial Monday. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-2-1939


PRESTON, Earl
1939
Earl Preston Died Jan. 5th
Former Paintsville Man Passes In Huntington
Earl Preston, age 37, died in Huntington, W. Va., Wednesday, January 5, at 10:30 o’clock. Mr. Preston was born in Paintsville where he made his home until five years ago when he left for Huntington where he had since lived.  He held a responsible position as salesman and bookkeeper for the Mullineaux Garage Company, of that city. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Warren H. Preston, of Pikeville, but formerly of Paintsville. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Josephine Bradshaw Preston of Huntington, two sisters, Gertrude Preston and Mrs. D. C. Smedley of Pikeville, and one brother, Russell Preston, of Paintsville. Rev. Guy Coffman, of the Mayo Memorial Church, conducted the funeral services Friday afternoon from the home of his brother Russell in Paintsville. Interment was in the family lot in the Preston Cemetery. Out of town people who attended the funeral and burial were Mr. and Mrs. Earl Mullineaux, Dr. And Mrs. Van Vleck, C. P. Flannigan and E. J. Evans, of Huntington; Mr. and Mrs. Ford McKenzie, Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Jacobs, and A. Bingham of Pikeville; also Mrs. Abe Forsythe, Mrs. Grace White, and Mrs. Drucilla Tapping, Huntington, sisters of Mrs. Earl Preston. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-12-1939


PRESTON, Mary Oma (Davis)
1939
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. PRESTON
Mrs. Mary Oma Preston, age 35, died at the Paintsville Hospital Tuesday morning after an illness of a few months.  She was a resident of the Davis Branch section and funeral services will be held there Saturday morning at 10 o'clock.  Burial in the Davis family cemetery on Davis Branch. She was a daughter of the late Roscoe Davis, prominent citizen of that section. Besides her husband she is survived by one small daughter, Elizabeth, and one son, Edward; also one sister, Mrs. Curtis Davis, of Davis Branch, and three brothers, Clarence Davis of West Van Lear, Junior and Bernard Davis, both of Davis Branch. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 19, 1939


PRICE, Henry B.
1939
DEATH CLAIMS HENRY PRICE AGED WILLIAMSPORT MAN VICTIM OF PARALYSIS
Henry B. Price, 78, prominent citizen of the eastern section of the county, died at his home at Williamsport last week from a paralytic stroke. He had been a member of the United Baptist Church for 35 years and was highly respected in his community. Funeral services were held at the Price home, with Rev. L.T. Preston and Rev. Leonard Walters in charge of the services. Burial at Williamsport in the family cemetery. The Paintsville Furniture Company had charge. Surviving are six children; They are;  C.C. Price, Jr. Williamsport; Green Price, Thelma; Mrs. Hattie Dawson, Thelma; Mrs. Addie Butcher, Williamsport; Mrs. Lulu Holbrook, Kayford, WV. He is also survived by two sisters and two brothers, Mrs. Belle ward, Williamsport; Mrs. Ella Preston, Offutt; C.C. Price, Paintsville, and John Price, Thelma, and 41 grandchildren ,22 great grandchildren. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-19-1939


RISNER, Mrs. William (Patrick)
1939
MRS. RISNER SINKS TO REST
Sister of Local Men Died at Swampton January 20. 1939
Mrs. William Risner; age 38, died early Friday morning, January 20, 1939, at her home in Swampton, Ky.  For the past year Mrs. Risner had been suffering from cancer, and everything medical aid could render was done, but to no avail. Mrs. Risner was a devout member of the United Baptist Church and practiced her faith in the beautiful Christian life she lived.  She will be greatly missed in her community and friends and acquaintances. Mrs Risner was a devoted wife and mother and much sympathy is extended the members of her bereaved family. Besides her husband she is survived by a small daughter, Mary, age 4; her mother, Mrs. Harris Patrick, Swampton, Ky.; two sisters, Miss Pearlie Patrick adn Mrs. R. W. Risner both of Swampton; two brothers, Kelley E. Patrick and Greene E. Patrick, both of Paintsville. Funeral services were conducted from the home  by the Rev. Ramey Whittaker, Interment followed in the Patrick Cemetery. “ Time takes them home that we loved, To the soft long sleep, to the broad swee bosom of death: But th flower of their souls he shall not take away, Nor the lips lack song forever that now lack breath. For with us shall the beautiful memory hat dies not, dwell, Though the dead of our dead bid welcome, and we farewell.” Paintsville Herald Thursday January 26, 1939


SALISBURY, Nick
1939
FLOYD MAN IS ELECTROCUTED _ 6,600 Volts of Electricity Flashed Thru Man's Body
Nick Salisbury, 28, was electrocuted at Drift, Floyd County Tuesday afternoon when a mast he was cranking upright from a truck loaded with well drilling equipment touched a high tension line carrying 6,600 volts, news from Prestonsburg says. Witnesses said that the mast was partially raised when the parked truck suddenly slipped, throwing it against the electric line.  Current flashed down the metal mast, through the crank, to Salisbury, who stood on the ground. The shock knocked Salisbury over an embankment and efforts to revive him with a pulmotor were fruitless. They added that before the current was cut off by a lineman, a dog, wandering under the machine, was baked to death. Paintsville Herald Thursday Jan. 5, 1939


SALYER, Infant
1939
INFANT DIES Barnetts Creek, Kentucky
The infant of Mr. and Mrs. George Salyer, died here Tuesday, January 24, 1939, and was buried Wednesday. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 2, 1939


SKAGGS, Ford
1939
COUNTY MAN FOUND DEAD AT RUSSELL Keaton, Ky.
This quiet little community was shocked and saddened upon learning of the tragic death of one of our prominent citizens, Mr. Ford Skaggs. The accident took place near Raceland, Ky. The dead body of Mr. Skaggs was found lying near his burning car by two boys. The bereaved family has our deepest sympathy. Skaggs, Ford PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 2-2-1939


STAPLETON, Bradlen
1939
Thealka Miner, 37, Dies From Injuries
Bradley Stapleton, age 37, of Thealka, died at the Paintsville Clinic Wednesday. Mr. Stapleton was a miner for North East Coal Company at the Thealka operation and was injured Monday of last week while operating a coal cutting machine. Funeral services will be held at the home Friday in charge of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Mr. Stapleton is survived by his wife and six small children. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 19, 1939


TRAVIS, Lawrence
1939
Lawrence Travis, 47, of Van Lear, Dies
Lawrence Travis, 47, of Van Lear, died last Thursday morning in the Paintsville Hospital.  He was a miner and had been employed by the Consolidation Coal Co., at Van Lear for number of years.  A short funeral service was conducted by Rev. Everett Everman at the Preston Cemetery at Thelma Saturday morning. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. May Wells Travis, two daughters, Miss Rosamond Travis and Miss Geraldine Travis, two sons, Curtis and Cecil Travis, all at home.  He is also survived by four sisters and five brothers; they are Willie Travis, Thelma; Jesse Travis, Ironton, O.; Mrs. Forest Preston, Varico, Fla.; John Travis, Tutor key; Mrs. Raleigh Stephens, Ashland; Mrs. Arthur Travis, Ashland; Mrs. Martin Stephens, Thelma; Linnie Travis, Thelma; Virgil Travis, Ashland, and Mrs. Howard Brooks, Ashland. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-2-1939


VANHOOSE, Myrtle Irene
1939
DEATH CLAIMS VOLGA CHILD
Irene VanHoose, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Proctor VanHoose, died at the home of her parents here Friday, January 27, 1939. Paintsville Herald Thursday 02-02-1939 MYRTLE IRENE VANHOOSE     Myrtle Irene VanHoose was born Wednesday, February 9, 1916, and departed this life Friday, January 27, 1939, age 22 years, 11 months and 18 days. She joined the United Baptist Church at Fish Trap Sunday, June 1, 1930, and lived a beautiful Christian life throughout her short stay here on earth. She was a high school graduate, having graduated from the Oil Springs High School in 1935. She leaves to mourn her loss a father, Proctor VanHoose; two brothers, Clarence VanHoose, Elna, Ky., and Chester VanHoose, Volga, Ky.; four sisters, Mrs. Dow Reed, Mrs. William Jesse McKenzie, Orpha Mae and Anna Opal VanHoose, all of Volga, and many friends and relatives. Our precious daughter and sister has fallen asleep to awake in the great Resurrection Morn. Through tears and pains we have to give The flowers that we most love, God takes them to another field Where they will bloom above. Although it’s hard to give them up, We cannot make them stay, For God, the one that put them here Will too—take them away. Some of his flowers are weakling ones, Their life does not seem fair, But He will come and gather them And gather them with care. And some are yet too young to bloom, And God will take them too, He picks them out from all the rest In all that we can do. So after all God is our King, He rules all that’s on earth, And now He gathers one by one The flowers that He gave birth. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03-30-1939


WALKER, Mrs. Fred (Rice)
1939
Local Woman Dies In Washington
News was received in Paintsville last week of the death of Mrs. Fred Walker at her home in Wenatehee, Washington, Mrs. Walker was a native of Johnson County and had many relatives here.  She was a daughter of the late Samuel Rice and was raised in the Rush Fork section of the county.  She is survived by her husband, three brothers and three sisters as follows: I. G. Rice, Paintsville: John Rice, New York City; Proctor Rice, Wenatchee, Washington; Mrs. Fonzo Conley, Staffordsville; Mrs. Dora Daniels and Mrs. Mrtie Shepherd, both of Wenatchee. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 9, 1939


WARD, Jesse Corbin
1939
Death Claims Aged County Man River, Ky
Jesse Corbin Ward, died at his home here last Friday night.  He was 83 years old and had been ill for the past month.  Mr. Ward was a prominent citizen of this section of the county. He is survived by three sons, Byron Ward, Kanaugh, Ohio; Walter B. Ward, Tutor Key, Ky., and George Ward of this place; one brother, Colba Ward of this place, ten grandchildren and two great grandchildren and many relatives and friends. He was buried Monday in the Ward cemetery with Rev. Millard VanHoose and Rev. Proctor Walters conducting the services. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-2-1939


WARD, Steve
1939
Steve Ward Passes At Age Of Ninety-one Years.
Steve Ward, member of a prominent family and well known to many residents of Johnson County, died at his home at Offutt at 10 o’clock Tuesday night.  Mr. Ward had been in declining health for five years and within the last five months his physical condition grew serious.  He was 91 years old and a member of the United Baptist Church. Mr. Ward located near Offutt 50 years ago and had made his home in that community since that time.  Until his health failed he took an active interest in public affairs and work of the church. Mr. Ward is survived by his widow, Mrs. Exer Stambaugh Ward; six sons, Fred Ward, Offutt; Dan Ward, Fredericksburg, Va.; Jesse and Shade Ward of Rush, Boyd County; Hugh Ward, and J. N. Ward, Offutt; three daughters, Mrs. George Ward, River; Miss Vina Ward, Offutt; and Mrs. Leonard Crawford, Rush.  He had been a member of the United Baptist Church for 65 years. Funeral and burial services were conducted at Offutt. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-9-1939


 
WHEELER, Albert Minton
1883-1939
DEATH CLAIMS A.M. WHEELER MT. STERLING RESIDENT
FORMERLY RESIDED IN PAINTSVILLE
Word has been received here of the sudden death of Albert Milton Wheeler, 55, which occurred in Mt. Sterling last week.  Mr. Wheeler's death came a few hours after he had suffered a cerebral hemorrhage. He was born in Magoffin county in 1883.  For a time he was a resident of Paintsville and conducted a restaurant on Court street. Surviving are his mother Mrs. G. W. Wheeler, his wife Mrs. Opal Wheeler, two daughters, Mrs. J. Sanford Damron of Catlettsburg and Mrs. Arthur Vaughan of Ashland, two sons, James P. Wheeler of Paintsville, and Jack Milton Wheeler of Mt. Sterling, four brothers, D. J. of Catlettsburg, Dennis of California, J. A., of Cleveland, Ohio, H. P. of Portsmouth, Ohio, and one sister, Mrs. Della Gross, of Kenova, W. Va. The body was brought to Catlettsburg where funeral and burial services were held. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 12, 1939





FEBRUARY - 1939

ABLE, Arminta (Dixon)
1939
Feb 3, 1939
Former Paintsville Woman Dies in Ohio
Mrs. Arminta Dixon Able, age 72, a former resident of Paintsville, died in Youngstown, Ohio, February 17, 1939.  she had suffered a stroke five days previous to her death. Mrs. Able was born in Paintsville, a daughter of the late Martin and Ruth Dixon.  She moved with her family to Charley, Lawrence County.  She was married to Jhn Able of Cincinnati  They moved to Youngstown where  Mr. Able became a contractor.  Mrs. Able was a member of the Christian Church She was a sister of Robert Dixon of Louisa. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-2-1939


BROWN, Emma (Rice)
1939
EMMA BROWN DEATH CLAIMS MRS. BROWN
Local Woman Is Victim of Paralytic Stroke
Mrs. James Brown, 65, died at her home on Second street Tuesday of last week, Feb. 14.  Mrs. Brown had been ill for more than a year, but the immediate cause of her death was attributed to a stroke of paralysis suffered a short time before her death. Mrs. Brown was a well known woman and a devout Christian.  She had been a member of the Paintsville Christian Church for many years. Mrs. Brown was a member of a prominent family.  She was a daughter of the late G. W. Rice who died in Paintsville many years ago. Funeral services were held in the Christian Church Thursday afternoon of last week, in charge of Rev. Cecil Platt, pastor of the church, assisted by Rev. Townsend, pastor of the First M. E. Church. The choir sang "The Home of the Soul" and "Never Alone." Burial in the Wells Cemetery in Bridgford. Her husband, an employee of the Sandy Valley, died less than a year ago. She is survived by three daughters, Miss Rebecca Brown, of Paintsville; Mrs. P. O. Polley, Jenkins, Ky., and Mrs. Charles Lyons, of Michigan; one son, Mitchell Brown, of Paintsville. She is also survived by one brother, J. A. Rice, Paintsville, and Mrs. James Akers, Wurtland, Ky. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 23, 1939


BROWN, Henry
1851-1939
DEATH TAKES VOLGA MAN
Uncle Henry Brown Died Early Sunday Morning
Uncle Henry Brown, 87-year-old resident of the Volga vicinity, died early Sunday morning at the home of his son, Andrew Brown, at Volga after an illness of six weeks. Uncle Henry or "Pap", as he was affectionately called by relatives and neighbors was a native of North Carolina having been born there in 1851. Soon after the Civil War he came to Johnson County where lived until the time of his death. His wife, Mrs. Margaret Baldridge Brown, preceded him in death in 1929. He is survived by the following children: Mrs. Alex Ramey and Andrew Brown, Volga; Mrs. Nancy Salyers, Columbus, Ohio; Mrs. Alonzo Kimbier, Blaine, Ky.; Mrs. Sandy Stapleton, Sitka; Frank Brown, Buffalo, Minnesota; and Mrs. Roy Scarberry, Nippa. Uncle Henry was respected and esteemed by all those who knew him. He was very much devoted to his children and grandchildren and they in turn were much devoted to him. He was a good neighbor and a dependable friend. Uncle Henry was a farmer by occupation. He had two very interesting hobbies--hunting and reading--which afforded him much enjoyment. At the age of 80 he competet with the youngest hunters. And at 80 he did more reading than any one in his community. He was ready when the end came. Funeral services were conducted Monday at 10 o'clock at Cannon Chapel Church. Rev. G. W. Townsend, Rev. Millard VanHoose and Rev. Harry Salyer participated in the services. Burial took place at the family cemetery on Toms Creek. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-6-1939


MUSIC, Wilbur
1939
WILBUR MUSIC IS KILLED BY TRAIN
Wilbur Music, 20 years old, the son of Russell Music, was found dead  on the C. & O. tracks near West Van Lear, late Monday night.  He had  been dead several hours when found.  Exact manner in which he came to  his death is not known, but the opinion is that he was hit by a train  which passed the junction about 9 o'clock that night.  He had cuts and  bruises on the head and body.  Funeral and burial services for the  unfortunate youth were held Wednesday. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 2, 1939


NEWBERRY, Elizabeth
1939
MRS. S. M. NEWBERRY PASSES AFTER LONG ILLNESS. Inez, Ky.,
Feb. 20----Mrs. Elizabeth Newberry, wife of S. M. Newberry, deceased, died last Wednesday, Feb.15, 1939 at 10 o’clock a.m. at the home of Mr. and Mrs. R. L. hale. Mrs. Newberry was eighty-one years of age, and had lived since early womanhood in Martin County. She was a devoted member of the M. E. Church, South, her home adjoining the church building. She had been president of the Ladies Aid Society of the Methodist Church for about thirty years. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her, as she had a host of friends throughout Eastern Kentucky.  She was always cheerful and had lived a devoted Christian life from her youth. It can truly be said of “Aunt Liz” that she had fought a good fight and had kept the faith. She had been sick many months, but was cheerful until the end. Her funeral was held in the M. E. Church, South and Rev. Yoak, a former minister of the Inez Methodist Church preached her funeral, assisted by the Rev Goose and J. P. Courtney of the Presbyterian Church. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 23, 1939


PRESTON, Loula (Gibbs)
1881-1939
Mrs. Loula Gibbs Preston, wife of A.S. Preston, was born at Mingo, Johnson County, KY, February 27, 1881, and died February 9, 1939, at her home near Staffordsville of pneumonia. She was the daughter of Abraham and Matilda Daniel Gibbs. Her parentage came from the stock of the early settlers of this country, who were known to be firm and upright in character. Mrs. Preston leaves to mourn their loss, her husband and the following children: Mrs. Hobart Conley, Gus Preston, Mrs. Geo. C. Perry, Jr., Mrs. Wardie Barnett and a host of friends. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church since early girlhood and her Christian Life is one that has never been equaled; she lived true to the faith day by day and proved herself a shining light to the lovely Nazarene. For the past several years she and her husband had served the Paintsville Church in the office of Deacon. Paintsville Church is in sorrow and feels very keenly the loss of this great woman. As a mother and companion she was a real home-builder. Her teachings were of such that it mattered not where her children were, they longed for the old hearth stone, where they could observe the moving and teachings of their precious mother. In all, we feel that in this life can truly be quoted the writings of the Apostle. Right blessed are the dead that die in the Lord from hence forth, yea sayest the Spirit. They do rest from their labor and their works do follow them. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MARCH 2, 1939


PRESTON, Mrs. Az (Gibbs)
1939
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. PRESTON
STAFFORDSVILLE WOMAN SUCCUMBS TO PNEUMONIA
Mrs. Az  Preston, age 57, died Tuesday night at her home at Staffordsville after a short illness from pneumonia.  The body was brought to the Preston Funeral Home in Paintsville where it was prepared for burial and removed Thursday at noon to the home of her daughter, Mrs. George C. Perry, on Second Street. Mrs. Preston was one of the best loved women of the county and her death brings sadness to a large number of relatives and friends.  She was a devout Christian and had been a lifelong member of the United Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon at 1:30 at the United Baptist Church on Second Street with the Reverend Guy W. Preston in charge.  Burial will follow in the Wells-Buckingham Cemetery in Bridgford Addition. Mrs. Preston was a member of a prominent family.  She was a daughter of the late Reverend Abram Gibbs and a sister of Reverend George E. Gibbs, a member of the Johnson County Fiscal Court. Besides her husband she is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Wardie Barnett, at home; Mrs. George C. Perry and Mrs. Hobart Conley of Paintsville; one son, Gus Preston of Barnetts Creek; three sisters, Mrs. Martha L. Davis, Paintsville, Mrs. Arthur Green, Ashland,and Mrs. Walter Pack, Williamsport; two brothers, George W. Gibbs, Chandlersville and John Gibbs, Joplin, Mo. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 2-9-1939


RAMEY, Nancy Catheryne (Pack)
1939
WELL KNOWN WOMAN DIES
Mrs. Ramey, Chandlerville, Sister of Local Woman
Mrs. Nancy Catheryne Ramey, wife of James Ramey, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ranza Cordill, at Chandlerville Sunday.  Mrs. Ramey had been an invalid for 15 years and although thus handicapped, she maintained a keen interest in life and her family and was always of a cheerful spirit.  Death came on the seventy-sixth anniversary of her birth. Mrs. Ramey was a daughter of the late Charles and Lavina Pack, and a grand-daughter of Henry and Gemima Chandler, early settlers in Johnson county.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church for more than 60 years and took an active part in the work of her church as long as her physical condition permitted.  Mrs. Ramey was widely known in this section and her passing has brought grief to many friends and relatives. She is survived by her husband, James Ramey, age 82, and the following children: Mrs. Hollie Castle, Portsmough, O.; Mrs. Dolly Ward, London, O., Mrs. Larue Johnson, Mechanicsburg, O.; John Ramey, Columbus, O.; Mrs. Belva Morris, London, O.; Mrs. Zilda Sturgill, Ashland; Charles Ramey, Ashland; Mrs. Cora Daniel, Brushy and Mrs. Ranza Cordill, Chandlerville.  She also leaves three brothers, James Pack, Garrison; Sherman Pack, Paton, Iowa; Roscoe Pack, Mechanicsburg, Ohio and two sisters, Mrs. M. A. Davis, Davisville, and Mrs. W. H. Slone, of Paintsville. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. G. W. Gibbs.  Burial was in the family cemetery at Chandlerville. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 2, 1939


SPEARS, P. D. (Samos)
1860-1939
P.D. (Samos) Spears Died Monday Night
P. D. (Samos) Spears died at the Paintsville Hospital Monday night.  He had been ill for two weeks.  Mr. Spears was a native of Johnson County but had made his home at Ashland for the past 20 years.  He was located here temporarily when stricken. Mr. Spears was born at Meally, this county, May 18, 1860. Mr. Spears was a devout Christian and had been a member of the River United Baptist Church for more than 55 years. Funeral services were held at the River United Baptist Church Wednesday at 1:00 p.m., in charge of Rev. Leonard Walters and Rev. Roscoe Lemaster. Burial was made in the old Spears cemetery, where Jennie Wiley, famous in Big Sandy history, was also buried. Mr. Spears is survived by the following children; Mrs. Gus Butler, River; Everett Spears, Pedro, Ohio; Rell Spears, Betsy Layne, Ky.; Tom Spears, Cashmere, Washington, and Mrs. Mary Triplett, of Ashland. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-23-1939


STAPLETON, Vina
1939
MRS. VINA STAPLETON, 91, SUCCUMBS TO INJURY.
Mrs. Vina Stapleton, 91 years old and widely known Johnson county woman, died at the home of her sister, Mrs. Bascom Van Hoose, of Nippa, early Sunday.  Death was caused from complications following a fall in which her hip was fractured. Mrs. Stapleton was a member of the United Baptist Church, affiliating with that organization when a young woman.  She remained true to her faith and until advancing age forced a less active life, she took a keen interest in the work of her church.  She was the widow of Ike Stapleton for many years prominent in the business and political life of Johnson County. She had made her home at Offutt for more than sixty years.  Mrs. Stapleton is survived by one son, London Stapleton, of Offutt.  She was the grandmother of Henry, Clyde, James and Arthur Stapleton and the aunt of Mrs. Don C. Van Hoose. Funeral and burial services were held at River Tuesday with the Rev. Guy W. Preston as the officiating minister. March 2, 1939.


TACKETT, Beatrice
1939
2 Floyd Tots Burned; Die Mother Also Seriously Burned In Rescue Effort Two children received fatal burns and their mother was seriously burned Saturday morning as fire completely destroyed their home at Dony, Ky., near Prestonsburg. The dead are Burnis Tackett, age three and his nine-months-old sister Beatrice Tackett. The mother, Martha Newsome Tackett, received dangerous burns about he body and arms, when she removed the two children from the burning house a moment before the roof collapsed.  She had been visiting a neighbor’s home about one hundred yards distant when she discovered the flaming house. Due to recent floods washing out roads it required four hours to take the children to the Gearheart hospital at Martin, where they died. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-23-1939


TACKETT, Burnis
1939
2 Floyd Tots Burned; Die Mother Also Seriously Burned In Rescue Effort Two children received fatal burns and their mother was seriously burned Saturday morning as fire completely destroyed their home at Dony, Ky., near Prestonsburg. The dead are Burnis Tackett, age three and his nine-months-old sister Beatrice Tackett. The mother, Martha Newsome Tackett, received dangerous burns about he body and arms, when she removed the two children from the burning house a moment before the roof collapsed.  She had been visiting a neighbor’s home about one hundred yards distant when she discovered the flaming house. Due to recent floods washing out roads it required four hours to take the children to the Gearheart hospital at Martin, where they died. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-23-1939


WOLVERTON, Loren
1939
Wreck Victim Died At Lackey
Lackey, Ky.--Loren Wolverton, 16, died Monday night, February 13, at the Stumbo Memorial Hospital here.  He was in a wreck about two months ago when the car in which he was riding was hit by another car. He was the son of Mrs. Amanda Wolverton of this place. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Duff at the Methodist Episcopal Church at Garrett. Burial followed in the family cemetery. Besides his mother he is survived by three sisters, Doris, at home; Mrs. Homel Harrington, Lackey, and Mrs. E. G. King, Lansing, Mich.  He is also survived by five brothers. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 23, 1939





MARCH - 1939

CARPENTER, Will Press
1939
Funeral Rites For W. P. Carpenter Held Sunday
Funeral Rites for Will Press Carpenter were held at the M. E. Church at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon at Salyersville.  Services were conducted by Rev. Caudill of Ashland, assisted by local ministers.  The funeral was attended by one of the largest crowds ever seen in Salyersville. Mr. Carpenter was 56 years of age and one of the most prominent men in Eastern Kentucky.  He was a leader in church, lodge, and banking activities of Salyersville and was Cashier of the Salyersville National Bank. Mr. Carpenter became ill last Friday but had gone to the bank for the day's business.  He became worse.  In the afternoon he started to his home but died suddenly before reaching there. His death was attributed to a heart attack. Burial was made in Bluegrass Cemetery.  Services at the grave were in charge of the Masonic lodge of Salyersville, and the impressive Masonic ritual was read.  Masons from a number of surrounding counties took part in the burial rites. Mr. Carpenter was one of the most prominent bankers of this section. Besides his widow he is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Buck Patrick, and two sons, James and Albert Carpenter, all of Salyersville. Among those from Paintsville who attended the funeral and burial were: Dr. and Mrs. H. G. Hazelrigg, Mrs. Oliver Jenkins, Mrs. J. F. Bailey, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Howes, Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Arrowood, Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Minix and family, Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Minix, Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Minix, Jr., J. B. Crutcher, Jr., Paul C. Hager, and Mr. and Mrs. T. J. May and daughter of Prestonsburg. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 23, 1939


CORDLE, Royce Don
1939
DEATH OF CHILD
Royce Don Cordle, little son of Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Cordle, died at the family home near Wilbur March 29, 1939.  He had been ill but a few days. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 13, 1939


DANIEL, Isom V.
1939
Former White House Man Died Last Week
Isom V. Daniel, age 80, died last week at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Charles Lemaster at Potter, Lawrence County. Mr. Daniel was a native of Johnson County and for many years resided at White House. The body was brought to White House for funeral and burial. Rev. Ed Lemaster and Rev. Ed Preston officiated. He had been in failing health for several years past. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Julia (VanHoose) Daniel; two daughters, Mrs. Ed Dixon, of Chestnut, Ky., and Mrs. Lemaster; one son, Buddy Daniel, of Happy, Ky.; three brothers, Rutherford Daniel, Catlettsburg, Farmer Daniel, Columbus, Ohio, and Major Daniel, Offutt. He is also survived by two sisters. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 9, 1939


ELAM, T.J.
1939
DEATH COMES TO T.J. ELAM
Well Known Morgan County Man Was  Buried Sunday.
Funeral services for T.J. Elam, prominent Morgan County business man, and well known over Eastern Kentucky, were held at Cottle at 10 o'clock Sunday. Mr. Elam, 71 years old, died Friday following a short illness. He had been in the mercantile business in Morgan county for 52 years, was a director of the Bank of West Liberty, a stockholder and director in the West Liberty Grocery Co., prominent in Ma- sonic circles and a member of the Christian Church. He was also an extensive farmer and stock raiser.  He owned more than 1000 acres of land, in addition to business property. He is survived by his wife, two sons and two daughters, eleven grandchildren and two great- grandchildren.  Three brothers and a sister resides in Texas. Among those from Paintsville attending the funeral and burial services were Virgil Salyer, Rus- sel Akers and Irvin Arrowood. Paintsville Herald Sunday 3-9-1939


FRALEY, Mrs. G. W.
1939
MOTHER OF LOCAL WOMEN PASSES
Funeral rites were held at Little Blaine last week for Mrs. G. W. Fraley, who died at her home in Louisa March 21, (1939). Mrs. Fraley was a devoted Christian woman and her friends were many. The funeral services were in charge of Rev. Bill Burgess, of Louisa, and Rev. T. W. Fraley, Ledocio. Burial was in the family cemetery at Little Blaine. She is survived by her husband and three daughters, Mrs. R. C. Boyd and Mrs. Bessie Fraley, both of Paintsville, and Mrs. Charles Spencer, of Ohio; two sons, Dock Fraley, Weeksbury, Ky., and Fred Fraley, of Catlettsburg, Ky. The Paintsville Herald Thursday March 30, 1939


HONEYCUTT, Burns
1939
DEATH CLAIMS AUXIER MAN
Burns Honeycutt, 56, of Auxier, died Sunday, March 5, at the Paintsville Hospital following an operation for appendicitis. Funeral services were held Monday, March 6, at his home. Burial followed in the family cemetery near Auxier. Rev. Griffith, of Prestonsburg, was in charge of the services. Mr. Honeycutt was an employee of the North-East Coal Company, having served the company for 25 years as blacksmith. He is survived by his widow and a number of children. The Paintsville Herald Thursday March 16, 1939


JACKSON, Wendell
1939
OIL SPRINGS YOUTH DIES AT CHILLICOTHE
News has reached here telling of the death of Wendell Jackson, formerly of Oil Springs, this county, which occurred at Chillicothe, Ohio, last week.  He died in a Chillicothe hospital where he was taken after an automobile accident in which he sustained fatal injuries. The accident occured when the car driven by Sylvester WIlliams, 19, left the highway and  turned over, crushing Jackson's breast.  Hubert Goshorn, 23, another occupant of the car, and young Williams escaped with slight injuries. All three youths were employees of the U. S. Shoe Corporation of Chillicothe. Jackson was 20 years old and a native of Oil Springs where his relatives reside. He was a son of Mrs. Lonnie Blanton.  Besides his mother he is survived by one brother, Fred Jackson, of Oil Springs and six half-brothers and sisters. The body was shipped to Oil Springs where funeral and burial rites were held. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 4-6-1939


JUSTICE, Delbert
1939
JOHNSON COUNTIAN COMMITS SUICIDE
Delbert Justice, age about 40, formerly of Kerz, this county, was found dead in his room at Ashland last Thursday. A partially filled bottle of carbolic acid was found in the room with a whiskey glass, which smelled of carbolic acid. Dr. J. C. Hall, Boyd County Coroner, held an inquest and a jury returned a verdict of suicide by drinking carbolic acid. Funeral services were conducted for Justice, Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Justice, of Kerz, with Rev. George Gibbs in charge. Surviving in addition to his parents are three sisters, Mrs. Link Stapleton, Davisville, Mrs. Oma Green, Kerz, and Mrs. Goldie Justice, at home. Burial in the family cemetery at Davisville.Paintsville Herald Thursday March 30, 1939


KIMBLER, Levisa
1939
Bridgeford Woman Buried at Cuba
Mrs. Levisa Kimbler died last week at the home of her son, James Kimbler, in Bridgford. Death was due to a complication kidney trouble and a complication of diseases incident to age. Funeral services were held on Sunday at Cuba, this county, where burial followed in the family cemetery there. Mrs. Kimbler is survived by three children, Mrs. Bertha Dixon, Wayland; Paris Kimbler, of Collista, and James Kimbler of Paintsville. Paintsvlle Herald Thursday 4-6-1939


MCCLOUD, George
1939
Local Man Died In Boyd
Former County Citizen Dies suddenly of Heart attack.
George McCloud, 57 years old, died suddenly at the home of his daughter on Hoods Creek Pike, Boyd County, Monday morning. He had been working around the house and dropped dead as he entered the building. Mr. McCloud was a native of Johnson County and was a son of the late John and Annie McCloud. He had lived in this county all his life and was at the home of his daughter temporarily. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Mary McCloud, one daughter, Mrs. Jane Harrington, one son Leck McCloud of Hager Hill, and one sister, Mrs. Minnie Davis, Sinking Springs, Ohio The body was shipped to West Van Lear where burial was made Wednesday. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-9-1939


PRATER, Elizabeth (May)
1939
Elizabeth Prater, who in later years became "Aunt Lizzie" to all who knew her, was the daughter of Samuel and Celia Powers May. She was born in what is now Magoffin County January 25, 1853. On January 25, 1872, she was united in marriage to Jeff Prater. To this union no children were born and Captain Prater died November 3, 1920, leaving "Aunt Lizzie" alone in the world, save for her own brothers and sisters and their decendents. She had four brothers, Judge W. L. Henry, J. Harlin, John J. and  S. D. May, and two sisters, Mary Prater, wife of Sam Prater of Missouri, and Lou Bailey, wife of the late Judge L. C. Bailey, all of whom are living and survive her except Judge W. L. May, J. Harlin May and Lou Bailey. She is also survived by many other relatives of lesser degree of kindred, and thousands of friends throughout the country who today mourn her passing. December 12, 1875, she was converted and joined the Methodist Episcopal Church of Salyersville, since which time she has been a consistant member of the church and a steadfast follower of christ. She was keenly interested in every activity of the church and carried for many years most of its financial burden.  Aunt Lizzie was a plain, old-fashioned woman and lived a simple, kindly, unselfish life.  She was childless, yet she was the adopted community mother. No tongue ever spoke evil of her. She had no enemies. she was loved by both saint and sinner. She lived a beautiful, Christianlike, holy life, and when she was very tired on March 11, 1939, as the day was fading in the west, she serenely wrapped the drapery of her couch around her and laid down to pleasant dreams, and an angel came and wafted her spirit home, where she was united with Uncle Jeff just outside the eastern gate. She was 86 years, one month and 13 days old. Time will eventually heal the bereavements of the loved ones whose hearts have been saddened by the death of this good woman and if they will suffer themselves to be guided in this dark hour of grief by the star of Christian hope, tomorrow they will emerge into that land of tender recollections, which will be to them a garden of memories, moistened by the dewdrops of heaven and cultivated by the hand of God himself, but  time can but ill repair the damage that the community and the church have suffered, because it will be difficult, perhaps impossible to fill her place. She is gone, but today those who knew and respected Aunt  Lizzie have met at the shrine of her memory and have deposited there a wreath woven by friendly hands from the garlands of love, and as we linger there, in the shadow of that memory, in tender reflection upon this well spent life, whose end brought a shadow upon the entire community, and sadness to every heart may the benedictions of her God abide with and upon the people that she loved, and may they get from that memory such inspiration as will enable them to live as she lived. She fed the hungry, she clothed the naked, she ministered to the sick, she cared for the dead, and she rejoiced in the service of the Master. What more can be said? You might as well attempt to add color to the rainbow as to attempt to add one single tint of beauty to her life. She drew the picture with her own hand and it has been before you for 86 years, and today Aunt Lizzie dwells in that land, "Where those that were good shall be happy, They shall sit in a golden chair, They shall splash at a ten league canvas With a brush of comet's hair. They shall have real saints to draw from, Magdalene, Peter and Paul They shall work for an age at a sitting And shall never grow tired at all. Only the Master shall praise them, And only the Master shall blame, No one shall work for money,No one shall work for fame, But each for the joy of working. And each in his seperate star Shall draw the things as he sees them For the God of things as they are." Among the number from Paintsville who attended the funeral and burial were Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Bailey, W. C. Bailey, Mrs. Eulah Gullett, Mrs. G. H. Rice, Paul C. Hager, Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Bailey. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-16-1939


STAMBAUGH, J. H.
1939
HEART ATTACK PROVES FATAL REV. J. H. STAMABUGH DIES SUDDENLY IN CHARLESTON Rev. J. H. Stambaugh, well known minister, died at his home in Charleston, W. V. Death came suddenly at his residence at that city last Thursday. He was 70 years old. Rev. Stambaugh was well known in Paintsville were he served as pastor of the Christian Church here. He was born in the Toms Creek section of Johnson County and has many relatives here. He was a graduate of Transylvania College, Lexington and had held pastorates in KY, W. Va., and Illinois. Rev. Stambaugh was an eloquent preacher. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Elizabeth Stambaugh, and one son, Fred Stambaugh, both of Charleston. The body was returned to his old home on Toms Creek for burial.Paintsville Herald Thursday March 9, 1939





APRIL - 1939
   

BARTRAM, U. G.
1939
Man Born At White House Dies in Louisa
U. G. Bartram, age 73, prominent citizen of Fort Gay, W. Va., died last week at a Louisa hospital where he had been a patient for three weeks. Mr. Bartram was born at White House, this county, a son of the late John and Mary Wellman Bartram. He moved to Fort Gay with his parents when a youth. He had been a member of the Methodist Church there for 20 years. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-27-1939


BLANTON, Alfred
1939
Alfred Blanton Is Called By Death
Alfred Blanton, age 43, former resident of Magoffin county and well known in Johnson county, died at his home in Ashland at 9:30 o'clock Tuesday morning. He had been ill six weeks. He was a veteran of the World War. His wife, five sons and three daughters survive. Mr. Blanton was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Blanton, of Magoffin county. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-13-1939


BUTCHER, R. E. (Rich)
1939
DEATH TAKES R. E. BUTCHER
Heart Attack Fatal To Well Known Citizen
R. E. (Rich) Butcher, age 77, member of a prominent Johnson County family, died suddenly at his home near Meally at 12 o’clock Tuesday, April 18, 1939.  Mr. Butcher had been in his usual good health until an hour before his death. Mr. Butcher was well and favorably known in Johnson County, where the family has long been prominent in the business and political life of his section.  He had been a farmer and merchant from many years. His wife, Mrs. Rachel Butcher; two brothers, Judge John W. Butcher and Lewis Butcher, survive. Funeral services were held at the family home near Meally at 2:30 o’clock this afternoon, Thursday, April 20, 1939. Burial in the Cunningham cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 04-20-1939


FEIGNHOLTZ, Ora Lee (Sturgill)
1939
FORMER LOCAL WOMAN DIED APRIL 15 AT CINCINNATI
Mrs. Harold Feignholtz died at the Good Samaritan Hospital at Cincinnati, April 15. She had been ill 15 days previous to her death. Mrs. Feignholtz was a native of Johnson County. She was formerly Miss Ora Lee Sturgell, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Sturgell, of Flat Gap, and had many relatives and friends in Paintsville and Johnson County. Mrs. Feignholtz attended the John C.C. Mayo College and was prominent in church and social circles here for a number of years. She went to Cincinnati in 1924 where she has since made her home. She was connected with the Methodist Book Publishing Company of Cincinnati, for a number of years. The body was brought to the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Co., and later taken to the home of her parents at Flat Gap where funeral rites were conducted Tuesday, April 18. Burial was in the family cemetery at Flat Gap. Surviving is her husband, Harold Feignholtz of Chicago. Her parents, James and Letta Sturgeil, five sisters and two brothers, Harry and Herbert Sturgell, Flat Gap; Mrs. B. R. Vaughan, Greenup, KY; Mrs. Crate Stapleton, Mrs. Harry Salyer, Mrs. Bert Thomas, Mrs. Tolva Phillips, all of Flat Gap. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY APRIL 27, 1939


HOLBROOK, Mrs. Lonzo (Webb)
1939
STROKE FATAL TO ASHLAND WOMAN
A stroke pf paralysis suffered the day previous, brought death to Mrs. Lonzo Holbrook at her home in Ashland Monday. Mrs. Holbrook was 53 years old and well known in Johnson County where she was a frequent guest of relatives. Mrs. Holbrook was the daughter of Ed Webb, prominent Magoffin county farmer, and a sister of the Rev. A. H. Webb, for five years pastor of the Missionary Baptist Church in Paintsville. She is survived by her husband, a daughter, two brothers and a sister.  She was a sister-in-law of  P. T. Holbrook, of Red Bush, this county. Funeral and burial services were held in Ashland at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon. Holbrook, Mrs. Lonzo PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 4-6-1939


PRESTON, Cyrus
1880-1939
Cyrus Preston Succumbs After Illness of Ten Days.
Cyrus Preston, 59, died last Friday, April 14, at the Paintsville Hospital, following an illness of ten days from a heart attack. Mr. Preston was one of the best known and respected citizens of this section.  He was a member of one of Johnson County’s largest and most prominent families. He was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Lafayette Preston, pioneer citizens of this section. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Belle Preston and three children, Delmas Preston, of Thealka; Ernest ray of Thealka, and Jimmie Cyrus, at home.  He is also survived by six brothers and three sisters. He was a member of the United Baptist Church, with membership at Concord. Funeral services were to have been held at the United Baptist Church on Second Street, but because of inadequate room, the services were conducted at the First Methodist Episcopal Church.  The services were in charge of Rev. Alonzo Wright, and other ministers of the United Baptist faith. Burial was in the Preston family cemetery at Thelma. Mr. Preston had been an employee of the North-East Coal Company for the past twenty six years. The following obituary was read at the funeral: Cyrus Preston was born in Johnson County January 3, 1880.  He was the son of Lafayette and Malana (VanHoose) Preston.  His ancestry dates back to the early settlers of this county, and came of that stern characteristic of which its high citizenry has long been noted. He had spent practically his entire life in the county where he was born.  He had been connected with the coal industry of this section for many years, and this association took him to Floyd County where he spent five or six years.  For the last 26 years he had been employed by the North-East Coal Company in which he was known as one of the company’s most valuable employees. Cyrus Preston was numbered among our very best citizens and was noted for his stern character and uprightness.  He was a man who practiced no deception and hated hypocrisy.  He was noted among his fellow men for his sternness and truthfulness. He met and was married to Mary Belle Cunningham February 7, 1909.  To this union were born three children, Delmas, Ernest Ray and Jimmie Cyrus Preston. As a husband and home builder no citizen within the whole county exceeded him.  His home was one in which love and union shined, and the true spirit of citizenship was taught and practiced.  It was a home in which God dwelt and the laws and statutes were expounded from day to day. In proof of the teachings his sons are taking their places among our very best citizens and it matters not how far these roam from home they long for the old hearthstone where they might hear again this gospel expounded. He was converted and joined the United Baptist Church at Concord in 1919.  As a member of that body he was faithful and true to his teachings.  He was a man who longed for the advancement of the church and worked and prayed to that end.  In all its membership there was none counted more truer than Cyrus. On April 6 he was stricken with heart trouble and while the most skilled medical aid was summoned, and his family and friends did all they could, and in the morning of April 14, the God whom he had trusted called Cyrus to that clime where mankind never sickens, trouble and pain do not exist, where there will be no more separation and dying. He died at the age of 59 years, 4 months and 11 days. He leaves to mourn their loss his wife, three sons and two granddaughters and one grandson; six brothers and three sisters, Ed Preston, Lebanon, Ohio; Hom, Gene, and Guy Preston of Wenatchee, Washington; Herschel Preston, Jenkins, Ky., and Forest B. Preston, of Paintsville; Mrs. J. D. McCowan, Nez Perce, Idaho; Mrs. Dan Ward, Fredericksburg, Va., and a half sister, Mrs. L. F. Stapleton, of Offutt, Ky. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-20-1939


PRICE, Amanda (Castle)
1939
Local Woman Died Sunday
Mrs. Amanda Price Succumbs After 5 Months Illness. Mrs. M. L. Price, age 54, died at her home here at 3 p.m., Sunday, April 30.  She had been ill for five months from a complication of diseases.  Mrs. Price was formerly Miss Amanda Castle and had spent the greater portion of her life in Paintsville where she was well known and respected. She had long been a leader in religious work and was an active member of the Freewill Baptist Church of Paintsville. She was the widow of “L” Price, who preceded her in death several years ago. Mrs. Price was the mother of twelve children, eight boys and four girls, all of whom are living.  They are:  Russell, James, Jack, Ted, Charles, and Harry Price, all of Paintsville; Otto Price of Newport, Ky., and John Price of Auxier; Mrs. Harry Castle, Jr., and Mrs. Wib Music, both of Auxier and Mrs. Charles Bailey of Thealka, Mrs. Charley Coleman of Pikeville. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church on upper Third Street Wednesday afternoon, in charge of the pastor, Rev. H. B. Conley. The body was laid to rest beside her husband in the family lot in Mayo Cemetery.  Funeral arrangements were in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-4-1939


RICKMAN, Tazwell Griffith
1860-1939
DEATH TAKES REV. RICKMAN AGED MINISTER DIED AT LACKEY APRIL FIRST
Rev. T. G. (Tazwell Griffith) Rickman, of Garrett, Ky., died at the Stumbo Hospital at Lackey, Saturday, April 1, (1939) after several months illness.  He was 79 years old and his death was due to infirmities of age. Rev. Rickman had been a life-long member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and most of his life had been spent in the ministry.  He was well known in Johnson County where he spent many years and where he was pastor of several churches of his denomination. Funeral services were held Monday, April 3, at the Liberty Baptist Church at Denver in charge of Rev. Sam Sloan, pastor of the Paintsville Missionary Church of Paintsville.  He was assisted by Rev. R. W. Stone. The following obituary was read: T. G. Rickman Tazwell Griffith Rickman, son of Robert and Eliza Rickman, was born January 26, 1860, in Tazwell County, Va. He died April 1, 1939, age 79 years, 2 months, and 7 days. He was married to Louise Williams September 15, 1881, who preceded him in death September 29, 1937. To this union were born eleven children, six sons and five daughters, several of whom are living. Two brothers also survive. He has been pastor of many different churches, including Liberty Baptist Church, Denver. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 4-6-1939


ROBINSON, Effie
1939
Mrs. Robinson Is Taken By Death
Mrs. Effie Robinson, age 30 died at her home near Thealka at 3 o'clock Saturday morning.  She had been in declining health for more than a year.  Funeral services with Rev. Millard Van Hoose in charge, were conducted from the Union Church at Thealka Sunday afternoon. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 4, 1939


SKAGGS, John D. (Dewey)
1939
C. & O. OFFICER SHOOTS SELF
DEWEY SKAGGS FORMERLY OF JOHNSON COUNTY
John D. (Dewey) Skaggs, age 40, special C. and O. officer working out of Catlettsburg, shot and killed himself at 2:45 Wednesday, according to news from Catlettsburg. Skaggs is said to have fired a bullet from a .38 calibre revolver into his mouth while sitting in his car in front of the Skaggs home on Cemetery Road, at Catlettsburg, the bullet passing through his brain. The body was found slumped over the steering wheel by officers J.C. Thompson and Bev Mellon who had been called by Skaggs' wife.  Mrs. Skaggs told the officers that her husband drove up in front of the home, sounded the horn, and called to her. She heard one shot, she said, a moment later. Members of the family could ascribe no motive for the rash act.  Skaggs was in good health and his home life seemed perfect. Mr. Skaggs was born in Johnson County but had been in Boyd County the past twenty years. His relatives reside in the Red Bush section of the county. He was the son of Jeremiah and Alice Williams Skaggs.  He was a brother of Dolpha Skaggs who served as Chief of Police of Catlettsburg for several years. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Marie Skaggs, two daughters and four sons; also two brothers, Herbert Skaggs of Prichard, W. Va., and Dolpha Skaggs of Catlettsburg. Mr. Skaggs had been an employee of the C. & O. for the past ten years. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 4-6-1939


STATEN, Martha J. (Spradlin)
1939
DEATH CLAIMS AGED WOMAN
MRS. MARTHA J. STATEN SUCCUMBS AT LOCAL HOSPITAL
Mrs. Martha J. Staten, 82 years old, died at the Paintsville Hospital last Saturday at noon, following an illness of two months from complications arising from an attack of influenza. Mrs. Staten was formerly Miss Martha Jane Spradlin, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank Spradlin, prominent citizens of the county, who were the former owners of  Mayo Farm. Mrs. Staten's first husband was w. W. Stafford, wealthy merchant of Paintsville, who died about twenty-five years ago.  To this union were born two children, Leona and Sibyl, one of whom, Mrs. Leona Patrick, survives. Sibyl who was married to Dr. Pleasant H. Williams of Ashland, preceded her mother in death several years ago. Besides Mrs. Patrick, Mrs. Staten is survived by two grandchildren, Dr. Richard Webb, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Pleasant H. Williams, Ashland.  She is also survived by one brother, Ben J. Spradlin, of Paintsville, and her husband who is a resident of Texas. Mrs. Staten had long been an member of the Church of Christ of Paintsville.  Funeral services were held at the church Monday afternoon.  Rev. Cecil Platt, pastor of the church, conducting the services. Burial was in the old Spradlin Cemetery on the Mayo Farm, overlooking the old Spradlin homestead where she was born more than 80 years ago. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 4-27-1939



MAY - 1939

BUTLER, Arminta
1939
DEATH TAKES AGED WOMAN
Mrs. Arminta Butler Passes Early Monday
Mrs. Arminta Butler, 93 years old, and a lifetime resident of Johnson county, died at the home of Mrs. Fred Meade, of Staffordsville early Monday, May 1, 1939.  She belonged to one of the county’s prominent families and was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Funeral services were held at Little Mud Lick Church Tuesday afternoon, May 2, 1939, the Rev. Burns Conley and Rev. A. Z. Cavin officiating. Burial was in the Butler cemetery. Mrs. Butler was well versed in the history of the Civil War and remembered many of the most interesting facts connected with the development of Johnson county. Her mental faculties remained active until a few days before her death. Paintsville Herald Thursday 05-04-1939


DANIEL, Rebecca (Stapleton)
1939
MRS. DANIEL, 82, SUCCUMBS
Johnson County Woman Passes At Ashland
Mrs. Rebecca Daniel, age 82, former resident of Johnson County, died at the home of her son, A. M. Daniel, in Ashland, at 9 o'clock Sunday morning.  She had been ill five months and for the past month had been confined to her bed. Mrs. Daniel was born at Flat Gap.  She and her husband moved to Ashland in 1928 where they made their home with their son.  Before locating in Ashland the family had lived at Kerz, this county.  She had been a member of the Sugar Grove United Baptist Church for 66 years. Mrs. Daniel is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Birdie Stapleton, of Beaver, Ohio, and Mrs. J. M. Gambill, of Offutt; five sons, A. M. Daniel, Leo Daniel, and Monroe Daniel, of Ashland; Arby Daniel, of Kerz, and H. R. Daniel of Youngstown, Ohio; also a brother, W. A. Stapleton, of Paintsville. Funeral services were conducted at the United Baptist Church in Ashland at 2:30 o'clock Tuesday afternoon.  Rev. Arthur Green, of Ashland, and Rev. W. H. McKenzie, of Paintsville, were in charge of the services. Mrs. Daniel was a member of a family long prominent in the life of Johnson county and the news of her death will be received with general regret. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 25, 1939


DITTY, William
1939
Death Claims Van Lear Man
Wm. Ditty Passes At Local Hospital Friday.
William Ditty, 60, well known citizen of Van Lear, died at the Paintsville Hospital last Friday. Mr. Ditty moved to Kentucky many years ago and has been employed by the Consolidation Coal Company for a number of years. He was married to Miss Kate Plummer and to this union were born ten children. Six of the children, three girls and three boys, survive, Mrs. Virginia Allen, Mrs. Mildred Derosset, Miss Frances Ditty, and Earl, Cecil and William Ditty. It is noteworthy that although Mr. Ditty was past 60 years old, his mother, who is 95, survives. She is a resident of Hinton W. Va. He was a member of the United Mine Workers of America, and the local union at Van Lear had charge of the funeral arrangements. Funeral services were held in the Van Lear Baptist Church and were in charge of the pastor. Interment was in the Van Lear cemetery. At the close of the services the pastor said: "To his faithful companion and children we would say, 'Weep not as those who have no hope,' and his sister, Mrs. Ella Swats of Hinton, W. Va., and three brothers, Lew, Wellston, Ohio, Frank and Jim, Springfield, Ohio, we commend them to the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ." PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday May 25, 1939


MOLLETTE, Elijah
1939
BOONS CAMP CITIZEN DIES
ELIJAH MOLLETTE, FORMER DEPUTY SHERIFF, ILL 11 YEARS.
Elijah Mollette of Boons Camp, former deputy sheriff of Johnson County under George Spears, and one of the county's best citizens, passed away Wednesday morning May 31, after an illness of more than 11 years. Mr. Mollette was the father of Mrs. Kash Holbrook, who has taught in the Paintsville City Schools for many years, and of Representative John B. Mollette of Van Lear. He had been a merchant and farmer of Boons Camp prior to his illness. He also was one of the superintendents of the Rockcastle Lumber Company which operated a large camp in Martin county and a narrow gauge railroad in both Johnson and Martin counties. A great many of Johnson county's citizens became acquainted with Mr. Mollette through working under him on the railroad and in the lumber camp. He was one of the ablest supervisors and one of the most beloved by his fellow men. Mr. Mollette's physical suffering was not half so great as his mental anguish through all the years he was powerless to do any work. He had to sit idly by and see his family carry on while he could not assist them. The nature of his illness was a form of paralysis which grew continually worse until at the last he was unable to speak above a whisper. When he was so weak that he could not talk to his many friends who visited him during his last days he still made them know they were recognized. When his dear friends would call and he could not talk to them, the tears would stream down his face, and his mental agony was almost unbearable. Besides Mrs. Holbrook and Representative Mollette, Mr. Mollette is survived by his wife, Mrs. Emma Cline Mollette, and the following children; Mrs. T. F. Fletcher of Inez; Mrs. Ray Colvin of Thealka; Mrs. Jay Preston of Williamsport; Fred Mollette of Van Lear, and Burns Offutt Mollette of Staffordsville. Funeral services for Mr. Mollette were held at the family home at 10 o'clock Thursday morning with Rev. John W. Butcher, Dr. J.R. Fairchild of Inez, and Rev. Millard VanHoose as the officiating ministers. Burial was in the family cemetery. The Paintsville Herald Thursday June 8, 1939


STAMBAUGH, Garfield
1879-1939
STAMBAUGH, GARFIELD DEATH TAKES COUNTY MAN
Garfield Stambaugh Succumbs After Attack of Jaundice. Funeral rites were held Sunday at the home at Stambaugh, this county, for Garfield Stambaugh, who died there Friday, May 19, following a month's illness from an attack of jaundice. Mr. Stambaugh was 60 years old and one of the best known and prominent citizens of his section. He had returned from a visit from Ironton, Ohio, where he had taken treatment at the Marting Hospital and was apparently  recovering, but a sudden relapse ended in his death. He was a member of a large family and was probably related to as many people as any man in the county. Funeral services were in charge of Reverends John Brown and Thurman Ferguson, ministers of the United Baptist Church, of which the deceased was a member. Rev. Guy W. Preston, of the Preston Funeral Home, who had charge of funeral and burial arrangments, said one of the largest crowds ever seen at a funeral was present for the funeral and burial. Burial was made in the Stambaugh cemetery near the place where he was born and had spent his life. Following are excerpts from the obituary read at the funeral: Garfield Stambaugh was born in Johnson County June 8, 1879. He was a son of Jonathan and Jemima (Holbrook) Stambaugh. He came of the stock of the early settlers of this county who were characterized for their stern and upright character. He was the youngest son of a family of nine children.  Cam, Lafe, Frank, Troy and Sam have preceded him in death. John, Rhodes and Hige survive. He is also survived by a twin sister, Mrs. Mary L. Burchett. He spent his entire life in this county in which he was born, and has been known as one of its very best citizens. On December 25, 1903, he was united in marriage to Bertha Burchett, and to this union were born two daughters, Mrs. Claude VanHoose and Mrs. Raymond Estep. As a husband he was true to his vow and his home has been one which has been a light to the community. In his home have been taught those principles which make good citizens.  In this home has been expounded the word of God, which has made it a home of love and peace and it matters not how far the children wandered they pined for the old hearthstone where again they could hear and imbite this great teaching.  As proof of this teaching his children have taken their places among our very best citizens. At the age of 23 he was converted and joined the United Baptist Church at Locust Grove in which he has lived true to its teachings and doctrines for 37 years.  He has said: "Here I have no continuing city," but professed that he was a pilgrim seeking that city to come. Today we believe he has come to his reward.  The fight is over and the crown won. He leaves to mourn their loss, a loving wife, two daughters, three grandchildren, his brothers and sisters and a great number of relatives and friends. In the departure of this good man, his wife has lost a loving companion, his children a patient and loving father, and his neighborhood one of its best citizens. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 25, 1939


STAPLETON, David Lee
1930-1939
David Lee Stapleton Dies of Unusual Malady.
Funeral rites for David Lee Stapleton, age 9, who died Monday were held in the M. E. Church Wednesday afternoon. Services were in charge of Rev. G. W. Townsend, pastor of the church, and Rev. Arthur Greene, of Ashland.  The rites were beautiful and most impressive. "Precious Jewels" and "How Beautiful Heaven Must Be" were sung by a quartet, composed of R. C. Thomas, Mr. Keen, Mrs. Wizenburg and Miss Gertrude Patrick, accompanied by Miss Mary May Salyer. A duet, "No Disappointments in Heaven," was sung by Mrs. Wizenburg and Miss Patrick and "Have Thine Own Way, Lord," was sung by the Junior Choir of which David Lee was a member. His schoolmates from Mrs. Christine Murray's room attended in a group. The flower bearers were Mrs. P. B. Hall's Sunday School class of boys, of which he was a member. The active pallbearers were Robert H. Meade, Stafford Smith, Robert Hall, Charles Melvin and W. H. Potter. The honorary pallbearers were Dan Wheeler, W. B. Bailey, Ralph Oppenheimer, Jr., Johnny McDaniel, W. H. Potter, Sr., Dr. Stafford, Dr. A. D. Slone, Jack Stafford, Mr. Fisher, James Ruth, Gaylord Pack, Tracy Pack, and C. C. Hall. The many beautiful floral offerings attested the place he held in the hearts of friend and loved ones. Burial was in the Stafford Cemetery across from Paintsville. The following obituary was read: David Lee Stapleton was born April 1, 1930 and departed this life May 8, 1939, being 9 years, 1 month and 7 days old. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Green Patrick, a baby brother, John Harris, and a sister, Betty Allene Stapleton. His short life was enriched with unusual intelligence for one of his years.  He had the keen perception of an older person and his conversation often surprised his relatives and friends. David Lee was especially talented in music, singing and drawing, and he gave promise of being a genius.  He could play with a degree of accuracy any piece of music he heard.  He had a good voice and sang whole songs through all the verses.  On last Thursday, while he was very weak, he crawled to the piano and played. He loved flowers, and to be outdoors, and always raised a little garden of his own. The greatest influence in his life was his grandmother, Mrs. Dora Spears.  He told Bible stories to neighbors and friends and when asked where he learned so much about the Bible, he said his grandmother taught him.  She always gave him special attention.  He cherished her memory and lived over and over his associations with her.  His mind was on her almost constantly the last month preceding his death. David Lee had great faith in prayer. He had suffered for years, but he told his relatives that when doctors could not help him, he always recovered from his sickness by praying.  He had an unusual malady, one that baffled all the medical profession.  Any slight injury would cause a bleeding that would not stop. This was the case in his last illness, when two teeth became loose.  A short time before he passed away he prayed that he might live.  In his simple, earnest way he told the Lord he would never complain of his ankle again, if the bleeding would stop.  When he could no longer talk to his mother, he called "Jesus," over and over.  While David Lee's faith was that he would again get better by prayer, his strength was one, and our Father called him to be with Him. When he was very small, one Sunday after he had been to Sunday School and had first learned of David, he told his mother of David, he told his mother, "They just talked about me all the time at Sunday school." He attended Sunday school at the M. E. Church and sang in the Junior Choir. He enjoyed it all so much and often went when he was physically unable. He had wonderful parents in all the years he had been in ill health, and was so grateful when he could be out, and although he could only watch other children in their activities, he was glad to be with them and did not complain. David Lee: Thou art happy now at last, This painful life o"erpast; thou art happy now at last on heaven's happy shore; Amid the shining bands Of angels thou dost stand, And list thy little hands Evermore. In the land Of the dear departed. Afar in the silent land. Paintsville Herald Thursday  5-11-1939


WALTERS, W.M.
1865-1939
W. M. WALTERS 73, DIED MAY 20
Well Known Merchant Passes After Long Illness.
W. M. Walters,  73, affectionately known to a large number of Johnson county people as "Uncle Billie" died Sunday, May 20, after an illness of five years from an incurable disease. He had been confined to his bed for 110 days when death relieved him of his suffering. Mr. Walters was a member of a well known Johnson county family and during his life had been a merchant for 19 years. He was born at Bobbs Branch, near Offutt, in 1865, a son of Shady and Elizabeth Walters, who preceded him in death many years ago. Mr. Walters was twice married. His first wife was Miss Julia Davis and to this union were born three sons, Leonard, Glen, and Mitchell. Mrs. Walters died in 1906, and a son Mitchell, died February 23, 1938. Mr. Walters' second marriage  was to Miss Emma D. Allen of Virginia. No children were born to this union. Funeral and burial were in charge of Rev. Guy W. Preston and Rev. Lafe Preston. Interment was in the old Wheeler cemetery near the old Walters homestead. Mr. Walters was a member of Old Friendship Unithed Baptist Church which he joined in young manhood. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-1-1939


WEBB, James Frank
1939
Van Lear Man Died Friday
James Frank Webb, 45, a citizen of Van Lear, died at his home there last Friday at 3 o’clock. Mr. Webb was a victim of cerebral hemorrhage.  He had been in poor health for two months, but his condition was not believed to be serious.  He was well known at Van Lear where he had worked as an employee of the Consolidation Coal Company for many years.  His death has caused much grief among his relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at 10 o’clock Sunday morning at the Methodist Episcopal Church at Van Lear.  The body was taken to Busseyville, in Lawrence County, where burial was made in the family cemetery there.  Rev. Mose Kitchen, Mrs. Cora Fannin and her son Rev. Roscoe Fannin were in charge of the services. Besides his wife, Mrs. Mary E. Webb, he is survived by two sons, Laud Clinton and Walker Ohlen Webb, of Van Lear. Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-11-1939


WILLIAMS, Stella (Burchett)
1912-1939
PASSES AFTER OPERATION
YOUNG PAINTSVILLE MATRON DIED SATURDAY
Mrs. Ben Williams, 27, died at the Paintsville Hospital last Saturday morning about 5 o'clock, after an operation performed the preceding Tuesday. Until her condition became critical Friday night it was thought that she was improving. Funeral services were held at the United Baptist Church at Paintsville Sunday afternoon , in charge of the Reverends Foster F. Riggsby and Alonzo Reed.  Further services were held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Millard Crum at Stambaugh Monday afternoon, followed by burial in the graveyard at Sam Stambaugh's residence on Toms Creek.  The services at Stambaugh  were conducted by the Reverends Sherman May of Bonanzo, Alonzo Reed and Willie Daniel of Charley.

The following obituary was read at the church in Paintsville Sunday. Stella Mae Burchett Williams, wife of Ben Williams, was born July 29, 1912, at Paintsville, Ky., the daughter of A. J. and Lydia Burchett.  She died in Paintsville Saturday, May 20, 1939, of complications arising from an operation performed Tuesday, May 16. Stella Mae spent most of her life in Paintsville where she was known and loved by everybody. In her few short years she endeared herself to hundreds of people by living the adage that to have a friend is to be one. The people gathered here today to do her honor are only a small representation of the many others in all walks of life who for one reason or another were unable to be here.  Many have sent regrets and stated due to illness and death in their own families they were not able to come. A few hours before she left this troubled spherre she indicated that she was going to make her home with Jesus where suffering is unknown.  While her mother and her loved ones and friends will miss her the rest of their lives, there is every assurance that the other world will now be a better place  to live by going there. She would not say goodbye even when she knew she was leaving for the "Other Side".  She felt she was going to her other home where she intends to meet her many friends again. Besides her husband, Stella Mae is survived by her father and mother, two brothers, Marion and Tom Burchett; two sisters, Mrs. Millard Crum and Mrs. Cecil Clay, and two children by a former marriage, Avis Lorraine, 9, and James Thomas, 8. She was married to Ben Williams October 6, 1935.  To that union was born a son in 1936 who died in infancy. The funeral services  at Stambaugh were attended by one of the largest crowds ever assembled at that place. The sudden death of Stella Mae, who was beloved by a multitude of Johnson County people, came as a severe shock to everyone.

 LETTER OF SYMPATHY The following letter to Mrs. Lydia Jeffords was written by Mrs. Evalena Brown Ramey.  The letter, very touching in nature, was prompted by the death of Mrs. Jefford's daughter, Stella Mae Williams. 2100 St. James Avenue Cincinnati, Ohio May 22, 1939 Dear Lydia, There are not enough words for me to tell you how sorry I am about Stella Mae, and how sorry I am for you, knowing you both as well as I do, and how much you thought of each other. Sometimes grief is so great that we doubt there is a God or anything else but trouble and vexation.   I know that is how I felt when I received the telegram about my mother being dead, and this is the first one I have gotten since mother died. It brought back the sadness again and made me realize more thoroughly how you feel.  We just can't understand why the young have to taken and why we have to face trouble, but it is because we lack faith. We should realize God knows best, and the Bible tells us to weep at birth and rejoice at death. One thing you can always be thankful for, Lydia, you were always kind to her and gave her what she wanted. You can know she will be saved a lot of  heartaches and trouble that come to people as they grow older. She was happy in life and she will be happy in death -for she was good.  Nothing people can do will help us bear our grief; we must be strong, and God gives us the strength to bear it. I want you to come down and get your mind off of your trouble, and try to see that God needed her for a purpose which we cannot understand. She has gone only a little before we must go.  You must brace up because of the children; they need you so badly. I was sorry I could not come to the funeral. I want to remember her as I last saw her. Love to all, EVALENA PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 6-8-1939




JUNE - 1939

ARTRUP, Julia (Ferguson)
1939
Mrs. Julia Artrup Dies of Injuries
Mrs. Julia Artrup, 35 years old, died at a Portsmouth Ohio, hospital Sunday. She was injured in a car accident June 11, when two of her children lost their lives. Mrs. Artrup, prior to her marriage, was Miss Julia Ferguson. She lived in Johnson County until eight years ago, when she moved to Ashland, and later to Portsmouth. She is survived by her husband, John Artrup; one son, William; her mother, mrs. Mary ferguson, of Ashland; three brothers, Arthur F. Ferguson, of Ashland, and Earl and Beecher Ferguson of Florida; three sisters, Mrs Mabel Williams, of Portsmouth; Mrs. Ethel Keller, Morgantown, W. Va., and Mrs. Mamie Meade, Sitka. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-22-1939


BERLIN, Ruth
1939
Death Comes To Miss Ruth Berlin
Miss Ruth Charlette Berlin, age 24, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Berlin, formerly of Van Lear, now residents of Jenkins, died suddenly at 3:30 o'clock Wednesday afternoon, June 7. Death was attributed  to the after-effects of an attack of encephaditis-sleeping sickness, which she suffered in 1935. She was taken ill on Monday, but her condition was not regarded as serious until Wednesday morning. Miss Berlin was employed in the auditing department of the Consolidated Coal Company. For about ten years the family resided at Van Lear where Mr. Berlin was auditor for the mining company. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon. Burial was in  Somerset, Pennsylvania, Saturday. Miss Berlin is survived by her parents, a sister, Mrs Dorothy Smith, of Corbin and a brother Luke Berlin of Jenkins. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-15-1939


MURRAY, Leo
1939
LEO MURRAY DIED MONDAY
Lowmansville Citizen Passes After Long Illness.
Leo Murray, age 59, prominent citizen of the Lowmansville section, died at his home there, following an illness of two years duration. Mr. Murray was a good citizen and member of a large family.  He was the son of S. R. Murray, who survives at the age of more that 90 years.  He was a member of the United Baptist Church at Lowmansville. Funeral services were conducted at the home Tuesday afternoon, Jun 6, 1939.  Burial in the family cemetery on the Murray farm. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Laura (Grim) Murray, and four living children as follows: Escom Murray, Garrett, Ky.; Arville Murray, Paintsville; Mrs. Sybil Pack, Garrett, and Mrs. Mollie Hicks, Wayland.  Besides this children he had many relatives in Johnson and Lawrence counties who morn his passing. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY Jun.8, 1939


SALYER, Manford
1939
MANFORD SALYER TAKEN BY DEATH
Manford Salyer, 71 years old, died at the Paintsville Hospital at 2 o’clock Sunday morning,  He had been in declining health for months, his condition becoming critical Saturday. Mr. Salyer was well known in Johnson county and was a member of a large and prominent family. Mr. Salyer is survived by seven children, Rev. Harry Salyer, Flat Gap; Arthur Salyer, Six Lakes, Mich; Mrs. Dowse Williams, Volga; Haston Salyer, Louisville; Mrs. Kendrick Salyer, Volga; Cline Salyer, Paintsville and Homer Salyer, Ashland, KY. Funeral and burial services were conducted Tuesday, Rev. Guy W. Preston and Rev. John Collings, being in charge, a large number of friends gathered to pay a final tribute. Paintsville Herald Thursday June 08, 1939


STAMBAUGH, Edith
1939
Paintsville Herald Thursday
DEATH OF A CHILD Edith Stambaugh, 2 years old, daughter of Mr. And Mrs. Jerry Stambaugh, died at the family home near Stambaugh at 12 o’clock Thursday. She had been ill two months. Funeral and burial services were held at the family cemetery Friday. Her parents, four brothers and one sister survive. Many friends extend sympathy to the bereaved family. Note: according to the Kentucky Vital Index, Edith Stambaugh, age 2 died in Johnson Co., KY on June 1, 1939.



JULY - 1939

CANTRELL, Noah
1865-1939
Noah Cantrell was born June 2, 1865, departed this life July 5, 1939.. He was 74 years and 1 month, 3 days old.  He had been ill for the past year.  He leaves to mourn their loss his wife, Omonda Cantell and eleven children, Mrs. Harry Gullett, Volga, Mrs. R.J. Fyffe, Ophir, Mrs. James H. Salyer, Flat Gap, Mrs. Foster Hamilton, and Mrs. C.M. Salyer, Red Bush, Mrs. Harold Holbrook, Relief, Mrs. Hasten Brown, and Mrs. Valma Fyffe, Elna; Lonzie Cantrell, Wheelwright; Charlie and Mace Cantrell, Elna; Laronza Wallis and Maxie Cantrell, preceded him in death several years ago.  He had 58 grandchildren and ten great- grandchildren. Our loss is heaven’s gain.  He left this world shouting and said he was going home.  He told all of his children to be good and to meet him. Dear Dad has gone and we will see him here no more, but we soon shall meet him on the golden shore. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-27-1939


CASSADY, Bobby Jean
1939
Infant Boy Dies Here Saturday
Bobby Jean Cassady, two year old son of Robert Cassady of Inez died last Saturday at the Paintsville Hospital. He had been sick for several weeks and was brought here in an effort to have his life. Funeral services were held at the home of his parents in Inez Monday and burial was in the family cemetery near there. Paintsville Herald 8-01-1939 Thursday


COLLIER, Pauline
1939
RIVER CLAIMS GIRL, AGE 12 ASHLAND GIRL DROWNED AT OFFUTT LAST WEEK
Offutt, Ky. -- Pauline Collier, age 12, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Collier, of Ashland, was accidently drowned near the home of her grandfather, D. O. Sparks, of this place.   The tragedy occurred about 6:00 p.m., Monday, July 3, (1939), while Pauline, her mother, her aunt, Mrs. Prater, and her little cousin, Kathleen were bathing in the Big Sandy River here. Following an extremely hot day in the berry field, it was suggested that the party go swimming, and the party was soon wading in the water at the place usually used for bathing. None of the bathers could swim.  Pauline and her cousin waded out to a step-off in the river and were soon floundering in water beyond their depths.  The Prater child fought her way to the shore, but Pauline was not so lucky and sank beneath the water. Mrs. Collier and Mrs. Prater rushed to the child's assistance and came near drowning in an attempt to rescue the child.  Mrs. Prater was sinking for the second time when help came from the Sparks home and they were rescued.  Mrs. Collier became frantic because of her child's plight.  She again rushed into the water where the child was last seen.  She had to be restrained to keep her from drowning. The river was dragged.  Divers and searchers worked all night, but the body was not recovered until eight o'clock Tuesday morning, July 4. Pauline was an exceptionally bright girl.  She had attended school the full nine months without missing a day or being tardy. She is survived by her father and mother, two brothers and one sister, and many other relatives here. Burial was made in the family cemetery near the home of her grandfather. Rev.   Leonard Walters, Rev. Tip Preston and Rev. Cullie Sparks had charge of the services. Each made very impressive talks at the funeral and burial. Mr. and Mrs. Collier are nearly prostrated with grief over the untimely death of their daughter. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 7-13-1939


DIXON, John
1939
JOHN DIXON IS HEART VICTIM
Prominent Local Man Found Dead In Bed
John Dixon, prominent citizen of Mill Branch Road, was found dead in bed at the home of his sister, Mrs. Mary Taylor, in Southside Sunday. Mr. Dixon had been in Paintsville on Saturday and was returning home late Saturday night and decided to spend the night with Mrs. Taylor. They sat up and talked till past midnight when Mr. Dixon retired. His sister called him for breakfast and he did not respond and believing he was asleep she did not call him again until noon. Still he did not respond and becoming alarmed Mrs. Taylor went into his room and found that he was dead. A doctor was called and pronounced he had been dead several hours. He had apparently died from a heart attack. Mr. Dixon was 71 years of age. He was a son of the late Henry and Jane (Stafford) Dixon. He had spent his entire life  on the old Dixon farm on Mill Branch where he was born 71 years ago. John Dixon was a man of many friends and always held the complete confidence and respect of his neighbors and friends. He was  kind and considerate  of his family and friends. Mr. Dixon was twice married. His first marriage was to Miss Minnie Bayes who preceded him in death more than thirty years ago. To this union were born three children, two of whom survive, Mrs. Fannie Conley of this city, and Mrs. Fay Price of Washington, D. C. His second marriage was to Mrs. Della Walker Williams. No children were born to this union. He is survived by his wife and three stepchildren, K. B. Williams, Ralph Williams and Mrs. Irvin Rice, all of Paintsville. Mr. Dixon was as kind and considerate of his stepchildren as his own children. He is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. Mary Taylor of Paintsville and Mrs. Murza Borders of White house, and numerous relatives and friends in Johnson and Magoffin counties. He was a brother of the late Dr. Ben Dixon, of Salyersville. His children, six grandchildren and one grandchild were present for the funeral and burial. Funeral services were conducted at the residence Tuesday afternoon, Rev. G. W. Townsend, of the M. E. Church, in charge of the services. Internment was made in the old Spradlin cemetery on the Mayo Farm near Paintsville, in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. A large number of friends and relatives attended the funeral and burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-3-1939


FREEMAN, W.M. "Bill"
1939
TRAIN KILLS BILL FREEMAN ACCIDENT FATAL TO AGED RESIDENT OF VAN LEAR
W. M. "Bill" Freeman, age 88, was fatally injured at 4 o'clock Friday afternoon (July 28, 1939) when struck by a coal train near Van Lear. Mr. Freeman, defective in his hearing, evidently did not hear the approaching train. Both legs were crushed and he suffered injuries to the body. Death came while he was being conveyed to the hospital. Mr. Freeman had lived in this section for many years, making his home recently with friends at Van Lear. His only known relative is George Freeman, a half-brother, who lives at Prestonsburg. Funeral services for Mr. Freeman were held at the West Van Lear Church Sunday (July 30, 1939). Burial was in the Hurricane cemetery. The Paintsville Herald Thursday August 3, 1939


GAMBOE, Betsy Ann
1939
DEATH OF INFANT
Little Betsy Ann Gamboe, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Gamboe, passed away on July 28. She leaves to mourn their loss, her father and mother, three brothers, James, Edward and Billie, one sister Mary Sue and grandfather and grandmother, Mr. and Mrs. E. Gamboe of Winchester. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 3, 1939


GILBERT, Ralph
1939
RALPH GILBERT IS DEATH VICTIM
Heart Attack Fatal To Shelbyville Democrat
Ralph Gilbert, age 57, a former member of Congress and candidate for the Democratic nomination for Lieutenant Governor, died early Sunday morning from a heart attack. He had complained the night previous from indigestion, but had made an address to the voters of the state over WHAS at 9:45 Saturday night. He served the old Eighth Kentucky district in Congress for five years, and had served as County Judge of Shelby county, and a term in the lower House of the Legislature and was just closing a four-year term in the State Senate. He had served as majority leader in both House and Senate. He was co-author with Senator Hiram Brock of the Brock-Gilbert election law, now in force in Kentucky. Funeral services for Mr. Gilbert were held from the Methodist Church in Shelbyville at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 8/3/1939


HITCHCOCK, Mary Ann (Frazier)
1939
Mary Ann (Frazier) Hitchcock
DENVER (Too late for last week) The death Angel visited the home of General Hitchcock and took from him his loving wife, "Aunt Moll," as she was always known. She had been in poor health for some time, but her death was a great shock to the neighbors. She leaves to mourn her death her husband four sons, Jessie, Bennie, Eddie of Denver and Grant of Van Lear; three daughters, Mrs. Oscar Arms, Mrs. Ray Baldwin and Beulah Baldwin all of Denver. She also leaves a number of grand children and a host of other relatives and friends. [Source: Paintsville Herald, July 6, 1939. Johnson county public library, Paintsville, Kentucky.]


JOHNSON, Martha E.
1866-1939
MARTHA E. JOHNSON DEATH TAKES MRS. JOHNSON
Short Illness Fatal To Hager Hill Woman
Mrs. Martha E. Johnson, age 73, died at her home at Hager Hill Wednesday, July 26.  She had been ill ten days from an intestinal disorder. Mrs. Johnson was one of the best known women in Johnson county and was a member of a prominent family. She was the widow of S. T. Johnson who died five years ago at the age of 92.  She is survived by two daughters, Miss Stella Johnson and Mrs. Virgil Salyer, and two sons, R. M. Johnson and Stonewall Johnson, of Hager Hill. Funeral services for Mrs. Johnson were conducted Thursday with burial in the family cemetery at Hager Hill. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 3, 1939 MARTHA E. JOHNSON Martha E. Johnson was born February 27, 1866, and died July 26, 1939, age 73 years, 4 months and 29 days. She joined the United Baptist Church at an early age and lived a devoted Christian life all through her many years and sacrificed her whole life for the good of others. She was married to S. E. Johnson, 56 years ago. He preceded her in death five years ago. To this union were born nine children, four of whom are still living.  They are Stonewall, Robert M., Stella and Ella Salyer of Hager Hill.  She is also survived by nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two half brothers and a half sister; Jeff Moles, Auxier, Lon Moles, Prestonsburg, and Mrs. Laura Music, East Point. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 24, 1939


LITTERAL, Maggie (Rice)
1939
DEATH CLAIMS MRS. LITTERAL
Mrs. Maggie Litteral, age 65, died at her home in West Paintsville Tuesday night, July 18, 1939.  "Aunt Mag" as she was known to her friends and neighbors, had been ill for the past four years, but had been in a serious condition for the past month.  She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church and was loved and respected by all her neighbors and friends. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the home in charge of Rev. H. B. Conley. Burial in the old Paintsville Cemetery. She is survived by three daughters, Miss Golda Litteral at home; Mrs. Louise Blair, Van Lear, and Mrs. Bill McKenzie, Mingo; also two sons, Harry Litteral, Wheelwright, and Harvey Litteral, Salyersville. She is also survived by two sisters and two brothers and a number of grandchildren. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY Jul. 20, 1939


LYONS, Bud
1939
DEATH CLAIMS THEALKA MAN
Bud Lyons, age 19, of Thealka, died last Wednesday morning, July 26, 1939, at a local hospital after an illness of eight days. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the home of his parents Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lyons, at Thealka.  Rev. Scott Castle and Rev. Filmore Gambill had charge of the services.  Burial was made in the Thealka Cemetery. Besides his father and mother he is survived by a number of brothers and sisters. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-3-1939


PACK, James William
1860-1939
Aged Man Died July 19
Brother of Local Woman Succumbs At Age 79.
James William Pack 79 years of age, of Fullerton, Ky., died at his home Tuesday morning. July 18,1939, Mr. Pack was born in Johnson County, Kentucky, May 25, 1860. The son  of Chas. And Lavina Pack. He was a member of the United Baptist church for over fifty years. In 1877 he married Martha Grim, 1895, Laura Nelson, 1898, Nolla Burton and upon her death he married Etta Hall 1908. Surviving are his widow and the following children: Henry Pack, Johnson County,Ky.: Pharoah Pack Fullerton, Ky. Monroe Pack, Montevello, Cal.: Mrs. James Walker, Montevello, Cal.: Lloyd Pack, Ashland, Ky.: Charlie Pack, Ashland, Ky. Mrs. Dove Boggs Letitia, Ky. Clifton Pack, Quiney, Ky. ,Ira Pack, Garrison, Ky., Mrs. Virgie Black Columbus, Ohio: Mrs. Ada Bayes Portsmouth, Ohio, Mrs. Matilda Willis Chillicothe, Ohio, Alvin Pack Fullerton, Ky., besides a host of grand and great grand children. Surviving him are two brothers: Sherman Pack , Paton, Iowa, Roscoe Pack, Mechanicsburg, O., Sisters: Mrs. Pearl Slone of  Paintsville, Ky. and Mrs. Trinvillie Davis, Davisport, Ky. Funeral  services were conducted at Fullerton and Beechy, Ky., by the Rev. Alfred Chandler and Davis K. Daniels both of Ashland, Ky. Those attending the services from Paintsville were Mr. And Mrs. W.H. Slone and Mrs. Glen Preston. 7-27-1939 Thursday Paintsville Hearld


RICE, Calla (Rice)
1882-1939
MRS. CALLA RICE TAKEN BY DEATH
Mrs. Calla Rice, age 57, wife of the late Capt. Malcom Rice retired army officer, died Thursday night at 8 o'clock at her home Route 1, Ashland, after an illness of three months. Mrs. Rice was born March 18, 1882 in Johnson county, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Rice, natives of this county.  She had been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church for 44 years. Her father, one sister, two brothers, and a large number of other relative survive. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Burial was in the Ashland cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-27-1939


RIGGSBY, Lewis C.
1939
Death Comes to Lewis Riggsby
Lewis C. Riggsby, age 75, died at his home near Lacy, Magoffin County, July 27, 1939. He had been ill several months from dropsy and for the past two months had been confined to his room. Mr. Riggsby, was the son of Henry Riggsby, veteran of the Civil War, and Nancy Skaggs Riggsby. He spent the greater part of his life in the community where he died, moving to that section from Lawrence County in boyhood.  More than 50 years ago he was married to Miss Clarenda Jenkins, daughter of William Jenkins, a United Baptist minister.  Twelve children were born to this union, hose surviving being Mrs. Menefee Montgomery, of Flat fork; Mrs. J. R. Picklesimer, Lucasville, Ohio; Mrs. Willie Hamilton, Paintsville; F. F. Riggsby, Paintsville merchant; Mrs. John Montgomery, Lacy. Funeral and burial services were conducted from the family home by Elders W. W. Smith, John Dulen, W. H. Jenkins and Lonnie Murray. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 10, 1939


SAYLOR, Fannie (Caudill)
1939
DEATH CALLS AGED WOMAN
Mrs. Fannnie Saylor Passes At Home of Son
Mrs. Fannie Saylor, 102 years old died at the home of her son, Henderson Jackson, near Riceville, at 2 o'clock Friday morning.  Mrs. Saylor had been in declining health for two years, but the illness which claimed her life was of short duration. Mrs. Saylor was born in the Holly Branch section of Johnson county, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Caudill.  She had been a member of the United Baptist Church for more than 50 years and as long as her physical condition permitted, was active in all the services of this organization.  She was twice married, first to James Jackson, of Harlan county, who died at the age of 87 years.  She was later married to Harmon Saylor, who died seven years ago at the age of 77.  She is survived by one son, Henderson Jackson, 73 years old, 12 grandchildren and a number of great-grandchildren. Funeral services for the deceased were held at the home of her son at 10 o'clock Saturday morning.  Rev. Hargus Conley was the officiating minister. Burial was in the Long Fork cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 20, 1939


SCHULER, Mrs. Al
1939
SISTER OF LOCAL WOMAN FATALLY INJURED JULY 12
Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher H. Fielder received a message stating Mrs. Fielder's sister, Mrs. H. L. Poe, of Merced, Calif., was in a car wreck with her daughter, Mrs. Al Schuler, her husband and little daughter on the yosemite Highway the night of July 12, when their car was forced off the highway by another car and into a ditch. Mrs. Schuler was injured so badly she died next morning. Mrs. Poe had her nose badly cut and one hand broken. The others were not injured. Mr. Poe is a conductor on Yosemite Valley Railway. he and his wife visited Mr. and Mrs. Fielder here. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-20-1939


STAMBAUGH, Mrs. Lawrence (Jones)
1899-1939
DEATH CLAIMS SITKA WOMAN Sitka, KY
Mrs. Lawrence Stambaugh of this place, died Monday July 10, at 8:30 a. m., after a long illness. She was 40 years of age, having been born January 22, 1899. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Wesley Jones, both deceased and spent her life in Johnson County. Besides her husband she is survived by the following children; Arthur, Edward, Franklin, Samuel and Geneva Stambaugh, all at home. She is also survived by the following brothers and sisters, Mrs. F. Ramey, Mrs. H. McKenzie and Mrs. James Thompson; Hoadley, Norman and Miltie Salyer, all of Johnson County. Impressive funeral services were held at the home Tuesday morning with Rev. Will Rice in charge. Several beautiful vocal selections were rendered by the choir. Burial followed in the family cemetery at Sitka.Paintsville Herald Thursday July 20, 1939



AUGUST - 1939

CAIN, Infant
1939
Infant Dies
An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Sherman Cain of this city died Saturday, August 19, 1939 and was buried Sunday, August 20, 1939, in the Fairchild cemetery in Southside. It died at birth. Mrs. Cain was formerly Miss Fannie Louise Enelson, a niece of Mrs. Fred Adams. Paintsville Herald Thursday 08-24-1939


FITZPATRICK, Albert
1939
DEATH CLAIMS AGED CITIZEN
Long Illness Fatal To Albert Fitzpatrick, Of Jennies Creek Albert Fitzpatrick, age 69, died at his home at Leander postoffice of Jennies Creek Monday morning, August 21. He had been in ill health for more than a year, but had been confined to his bed only a week prior to his death. Mr. Fitzpatrick was a well known citizen of the Jennies Creek section. He was a member of one of the old families of the county, being a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Seville Fitzpatrick. Besides his widow, Mrs. Sissie (Estep) Fitzpatrick, he is survived by two sons, Earl and Normal Fitzpatrick, both of Leander; one grandchild; one brother, Burns Fitzpatrick, of Mascot, Tennessee, and one sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Wood, of Leander. Another brother, Will Fitzpatrick, died less than a year ago. His brother, Burns Fitzpatrick, became famous more than thirty   years ago. He was one of the jurors summoned in Kentucky to try Curt Jett, charged with the murder of Governor William Goebel who was assassinated at Frankfort shortly after being elected. The case was tried at Jackson, Breathitt county. Eleven of the jurors were for the death penalty, while Fitzpatrick held out steadily against inflicting capital punishment. Because of his saving the life of the notorious prisoner, Fitzpatrick became a headliner in all Kentucky newspapers at that time. Funeral services were held at the home at 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon. Burial followed in family cemetery. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture had charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-24-1939


HITCHCOCK, Arlene
1939
VAN LEAR WOMAN DIES
Volga, Ky.--The people of this place were very sorry to hear of the death of Arlene Hitchcock who died Friday morning at 2:00 o'clock at Van Lear. She was brought back to Manila Sunday where she was laid to rest in the family cemetery. She leaves to morn their loss her father, Mr. Verlie Hitchcock, mother, Mrs. Paul Crum, one sister Mrs. Walter Picklesimer, and one brother Edgel Hitchcock. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-31-1939


MEEK, Ruth (Music)
1939
POSTMISTRESS AT AUXIER DIED MONDAY
Mrs. Ruth Meek, 32, Succumbs After Month’s Illness Mrs. Ruth Meek, age 32, died at her home at Auxier Monday following a month’s illness.  She had been in failing health for the past several months, but had been seriously ill for a week. Mrs. Meek was the widow of Greenville Meek who died at Ashland about ten years ago.  She was postmistress at Auxier and had served in that position for the past two years and was well known in Johnson and Floyd counties where she had many relatives. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 o’clock in the afternoon at the Auxier M. E. Church, the Rev. I. Stratton of Banner, Ky., in charge. She is survived by four sisters, Mrs. W. H. Music, Mrs. Mollie Burchett, Mrs. Ollie Burkett, of Auxier, and Mrs. Bart Mellon of Paintsville; also, two brothers, Jeff and Wilbur Music, both of Auxier. An infant son preceded her in death several years ago. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 31, 1939


MUSIC, John A.
1939
John A. Music Passes Saturday After Illness Of More Then 1 Year
John A. Music, prominent citizen and farmer died at his country home at Hager Hill last Saturday morning from heart ailment and other complications from which he had suffered for more then a year.  He  was one of the county's oldest citizens, being 84 years at the time of his death. Mr. Music formerly resided on Millers Creek.  When the Consolidation Coal  Company purchased the Millers Creek coal field more then 30 years ago the company owned all lands on the creek with the exception of Mr. Music's farm which blocked the development of the coal field.  Mr. Music finally received $20,000  for his farm and purchased the D. Mart Hager farm at Hager Hill, one of the best farms in the county which he owned at the time of his death.  Mr. Music was considered wealthy. He had been a member of the Christian Church for 44 years and has always been known as a good citizen. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the home in charge of Rev. S. C. Honeycutt of Auxier.  Burial was made in the family cemetery on the home farm. Besides his widow,  Mrs. Nancy Hyden Music, he is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Virgie Johnson, also of Hager Hill, and a number of grand children. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-1-1939


ROBERTS, Ida (Mahan)
1939
LONG ILLNESS FATAL TO WEST END WOMAN
Mrs. Ida Roberts Died Monday At Her Home Here
Mrs. Ida Roberts, age 69 years, died at her home in West Paintsville at 5:15 p.m. Monday. Mrs. Roberts had spent practically her whole life in Paintsville, coming here with her mother when a mere girl. She was married to Fred Roberts, also of Paintsville, who had preceded her in death 27 years ago.  To this union were born three daughters.  They are Mrs. James Jarrell, Portsmouth, Ohio, Mrs. Melvin Webb and Mrs. Della Reed, both of Paintsville.  She is also survived by 17 grandchildren.  In addition to these she is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. Della Roberts, of Portsmouth, Ohio and Mrs. Rose Pelphrey, of Van Lear; three brothers, James Mahan, California; George Mahan, Portsmouth, O.; Ernest Mahan and Amos Pelphrey, a half brother, both of Staffordsville. Mrs. Roberts was well known in Paintsville where she had many friends. She was a member of the local Freewill Baptist Church, and was a regular attendant at church services as long as she was able to go. Short funeral services were held at the home Wednesday morning in charge of Rev. Millard VanHoose. Burial was in the Paintsville cemetery in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 31, 1939


STEVENS, Ella B. (Burchett)
1939
MRS. STEVENS DIES
Stambaugh, KY -  Mrs. John Stevens passed away at her home in Glo.  She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Landrum Burchett.  Besides her parents she is survived by four brothers and two sisters and three small children.  She was laid to rest in the cemetery here. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 31, 1939


TACKETT, Haston
1939
STAFFORDSVILLE YOUTH ACCIDENTLY DROWNED IN TRIMBLE COUNTY
News was received here this week that Haston Tackett, of Staffordsville, was accidently drowned in Trimble county late last Friday afternoon. He was a NYA youth and attended an NYA institute in that county. He and a number of other boys had gone swimming in Bedford Creek when young Tackett got beyond his depth and drowned before he could be rescued. He was about 17 years of age and was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Tackett.  He is survived by his father and mother, four brothers and five sisters. The body was brought to Staffordsville for funeral and burial. The untimely death of the young man has brought sorrow to his family and the people of Staffordsville. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 8-24-1939




SEPTEMBER - 1939

CASTLE, Dow
1939
MINER KILLED AT THEALKA MONDAY
Dow Castle, Age 55, Dies Instantly Under Slate Fall Dow Castle, age 55, was killed Monday, September 11, in the mines of the North-East Coal Company at Thealka.  He was crushed to death by a slate fall in the room where he was working. Death, it is said, was instantaneous. Mr. Castle had been an employee of the North-East Coal Company since the company began operations at Thealka thirty years ago.  The company has had few fatalities at the Thealka operations and Mr. Castle's death is deeply deplored by company officials as well as citizens of that community. Besides his widow Mr. Castle is survived by eight children in addition to numberous other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at the home at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning.  The services were in charge of Rev. Scott Castle and Rev. Millard VanHoose. Burial was made in the family cemetery on Road Branch in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 14, 1939


CASTLE, Ed
1884-1939
MINER DIED SUDDENLY AT VAN LEAR
Ed Castle, 55, Passes Shortly After Going To Work Monday Ed Castle, an employee of the Consolidation Coal Company, at Van Lear, died suddenly shortly after entering the mines Monday afternoon. Mr. Castle had been in his usual good health and had worked the morning shift. Shortly after entering the mine during the afternoon shift he became ill and was brought to the outside where he died within a few minutes. The exact cause of his death is unknown. Mr. Castle had resided at Van Lear for several years and was prominent in social and lodge circles. He was a member of Van Lear Lodge No. 885, F. & A. M., an Odd Fellow, and a member of the Junior Order United American Mechanics. He served two years as a member of the Van Lear police force. Mr. Castle was 55 years of age, having been born March 23, 1884. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m., at the Van Lear M. E. Church. The body was then taken to Garred Chapel in Lawrence county, where short services were also held. Burial followed in the Wilson Cemetery 3 miles south of Louisa. Mr. Castle had no children.  Besides his widow, Mrs. Ida Wilson Castle, he is survived by two brothers and three sisters, Harry and Walter Castle, Mrs. Julia Bowe, Mrs. Nevada Cochran, and Mrs. Lou Abshire. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 28, 1939


GAMBILL, John Craton, Dr.
1885-1939
WELL KNOWN PHYSICIAN DIED FRIDAY
Dr. John C. Gambill Well Known In Big Sandy Valley Ashland, Ky.--Death at 1 p.m. Friday claimed the life of Dr. John Craton Gambill, 54, one of Ashland's most beloved citizens. Dr. Gambill succumbed at his residence, 3200 Hackworth street, of a heart ailment from which he had been suffering for the past three years. He was born at Martha, Lawrence county, Kentucky, on March 25, 1885, the son of Dr. John J. and Mary Jane Boggs Gambill.  He received his early education in the public schools of his native county and graduated from Blaine high school. He entered the Hospital College of Medicine at Louisville, Ky., in 1902 and graduated with honors with the class of 1905. Dr. Gambill began the practice of general medicine at Denver, Ky., upon his graduation from college and a short time later began a special study of eye, ear,nose and throat which he completed at Chicago, Ill., and New York City. He then located at Paintsville Ky., and two years later in 1909, he entered into a partnership with his brother Dr. W. L. Gambill at Van Lear, Ky. They remained there two years and in 1911 located at Jenkins, Ky., where they remained until locating here in 1920.  He began special practice here which was terminated three years ago because of ill health. Dr. Gambill had been a member of the First Christian Church for the past five years.  He was also a former Mason, Knight Templar, Shriner and Elk. Surviving are one brother, Dr. W. L. Gambill of 2828 Hackworth street and two sisters, Mrs. F. M. Williams, of Forest avenue and Mrs. Belle Lester of Lakeland, Florida. Funeral services were conducted at the residence, 3200 Hackworth street at 2:30 p.m. Monday, with his former pastor, Rev. Joseph W. Hasgin of New Berne, North Carolina, officiating, assisted by Rev. Joseph S. Faulconer, pastor of the First Cbristian Church. Interment was made in the Ashland cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Drs. H. G. Stambaugh, Clyde Sparks, M. D. Garred, L. H, Winans, Oliver H. Fearing and C. C. Woods. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-28-1939


HATCHER, James
1939
DEATH ENDS LIFE OF PROMINENT BIG SANDIAN
James Hatcher, 80, Passes at Pikeville Monday at Noon James Hatcher, eighty years of age, former member of the Kentucky Railroad Commission and developer of much of Eastern Kentucky’s natural resources died at 12:45 p.m. Friday at his home adjoining his hotel, the James Hatcher, at Pikeville Long a leader in Democratic circles here, Mr. Hatcher, also a former Pike County Clerk, had been ill several weeks. A pioneer in the timber in- dustry before the coming of the railroad to Eastern Kentucky, he engaged in the rafting of millions of feet of lumber down the Big Sandy. With his profits, he bought land in Floyd, his native county, and in Pike, where he operated the James Hatcher Coal Company amid a 3,700 acre tract. His 6,000 additional acres contain minerals and timber. Soon after entering business at Pikeville at the age of 18, Mr. Hatcher erected a warehouse that at one time handled practically all merchandise shipped to Pikeville, head of navigation on the Big Sandy.  He was part owner of “The Mountain Girl” steamboat designed for hill country trade, which sank. His ventures included the building of the Pike County Court House in 1886[?], for which he held a contract, and the later erection of the Hatcher Ho- tel. The hotel’s lobby, a museum of Kentuckians, is an Eastern Kentucky show place.  In it Mr. Hatcher kept his coffin of native black walnut, which he designed several years ago. Funeral services were held at his hotel at 2 p.m. Sunday, and hundreds of people from every section of the state attended the funeral. Prominent among those who attended the funeral were Governor A. B. Chandler, and most of the State officials of Frankfort. Paintsville Herald Thursday October 5, 1939


HOPKINS, Mary
1939
DEATH CLAIMS MISS HOPKINS
Aged Woman Passes At Local Hospital Saturday Night
Miss Mary Hopkins, 88 years old, died at the City View Hospital last Saturday night, Sep- tember 23, after an illness of several weeks.  She suffered a slight stroke some time ago and her death was a result of this and the infirmities of old age. Funeral services were held Monday at the Paintsville Funeral Home and burial was in the Wells Cemetery in Bridgford. "Miss Mary," as she was known to her many friends, came to Paintsville in 1921 with her sis- ter, Miss Martha Hopkins, and Mrs. A. B. Hyde.  She had made her home here during most of the time since.  She was born in Franklin County, Ky., and lived for a long time in Tennessee. She became deeply attached to Paintsville and its citizens and leaves behind a host of friends here. Surviving are her sister,  Miss Martha Hopkins, and one brother who lives in California. Several nieces and nephews also survive. She became identified with the Mayo Memorial Church upon coming to Paintsville, and was a devout member of that congregation.  Her gentle kindness endeared her to a great number of people who deeply regret her passing. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-28-1939


ROBINSON, Jerome
1866-1939
Jerome Robinson was born June 30, 1866.  Died September 14, 1939, age73 years, 2 months, and 14 days.  He was the son of W.T. and Catherine Moles Robinson, who preceded him in death several years ago.  He was married to Ella Compton in 1895 and to this union were born two children, Mrs. Effie Clarke, North Judson, Indiana; and Mrs. Gypsie Lewis, Cincinnati, Ohio. Besides his children he is survived by three sisters, Mrs. Martha Howard of Paintsville, Mrs. Josie Brown of Lowmansville, and Mrs. Alice Litz of auxier,  two brothers, John Rosinson of Wayland, with whom Mr. Robinson made his home and George Robinson of East Point, nine grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. He was ill only one month and had accepted Christ as his personal Savior and told his family there was nothing between him and the Lord. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 21, 1939


SPARKS, James A.
1939
DR. SPARKS SUCCUMBS AT ASHLAND ASHLAND PHYSICIAN FORMERLY LIVED IN JOHNSON COUNTY
Dr. James A. Sparks, age 68, well known Ashland physician, died at his home there Wednesday morning. He had been ill since August 1. Dr. Sparks was born at Martha, in Lawrence County.   He was the son of Nelson and Serilda Holbrook Sparks, and has many relatives in Lawrence and Johnson counties. He received his early education in the public schools of Lawrence county and graduated from the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville in 1900. After graduation, Dr. Sparks returned to Martha where he began the practice of medicine. In 1902, he was married to Miss Anna Wilkinson of Louisville. In 1903, he moved to White House, of this county, where he continued his practice until 1906 when he and Mrs. Sparks moved to Ashland and resided in the same residence until Dr. Sparks' death. He was a member of the Poage Lodge F.& A. M. and had been a Shriner for thirty years. Funeral arrangements had not been completed Thursday morning. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 9-28-1939


STAMBAUGH, Gertie (Castle)
1939
DEATH CLAIMS PROMINENT WOMAN MRS. GERTIE STAMBAUGH  SUCCUMBS AFTER LONG ILLNESS Mrs. Gertie Stambaugh, age 44, died at the home of Mr. And Mrs. J. N. Stambaugh in east Paintsville last Friday, September 8. Mrs. Stambaugh had been ill since the death of her husband, Lois Stambaugh, at Ashland last February. Mrs. Stambaugh was the daughter of Israel and Rosabelle Daniel Castle. Her parents died when she was a small girl and since that time she made her home with Mr. And Mrs. J. N. Stambaugh until her marriage to Lois Stambaugh in 1919. To this union was born one daughter, Sherlie, who died in 1930. She is survived by, one half brother, and one half sister, several uncles and aunts and many other relatives throughout Johnson County. She was a devout Christian and a member of the Christian Church at West Van Lear where she and her husband resided before going to Ashland. Mrs. Stambaugh was a very popular woman and was remembered during her long illness by the presentation of flowers by her many friends. Funeral services were conducted at the Paintsville Christian Church Sunday afternoon by the pastor, Rev. Cecil Platt. The funeral was largely attended. Burial was in the family cemetery at Stambaugh. Rev. Guy W. Preston, of the Preston Funeral Home, had charge of funeral arrangements.Paintsville Herald Thursday September 14, 1939


STAMBAUGH, Mollie (Ramey)
1878-1939
Mrs. Mollie Stambaugh, of Sitka, was born May 24, 1878 and passed from this life September 26, 1939 at 12:45 o’clock, age 61 years, 4 months and two days. She was the daughter of Amanda and George Ramey, of Johnson County who preceded her in death several years ago. Also her brother Nathan Ramey passed from this life several years ago. In the year 1896, she was married to Marion Brown son of John and Lucinda Brown, of Johnson County. To that union were born three sons, Elbert, Roy and Walter Brown who survive their mother. Their father Marion Brown departed this life in the year 1903. In the year 1918 she was married to Rado Stambaugh. To that union was born a daughter, Jewel Stambaugh, who also survives her. When she was about 14 years old Mrs. Stambaugh was converted under the preaching of Rev. N. G. Griswold, pastor of the Methodist Church. She united with the Methodist Church at Cannon’s Chapel at that time and had been a member 47 years. During this period she believed in and practiced old time religion. She began teaching Sunday school at Cannon Chapel when very young and taught for many years. Later she became superintendent of the Sunday school and remain so for some years or until she moved from the neighborhood where she resided. She was very faithful in her church and Sunday school work. She loved to assemble in God’s house, teach, pray and sing the sacred hymns that were dear to her heart. Her Christian life was an example, teaching others that the only way to live was the right way. Suffering much from illness, she bore every trial, faced every storm, with faith undaunted, confident that when the Roll is called up yonder she can answer “Here.” As the shadow came upon her she showed no fear, because she had “Put her house in Order.” Many years ago, when her eyes closed to things on earth, Mollie knew that they would open again in the land of unending Day to join those who were waiting for her on the other shore.Paintsville Herald  Thurday October 5, 1939


THOMPSON, Mont
1939
LOUISA GIRL HELD IN DEATH OF FATHER
Jean Thomas, 17, says She Shot in Defense of Her Mother Jean Thomas, 17, is held in the Lawrence County jail at Louisa, after telling officers that she shot and killed her father, Mont Thompson.  According to Patrolman Charles D. Waldeck of Louisa the shooting occurred in the front yard of the Thompson home at the mouth of Lick Creek, on the southern outskirts of Louisa about 7 o’clock Saturday evening “He was beating up on Mother and had threatened my life and I shot him because I was afraid he would kill my mother, “  Waldeck said the girl told him when she surrendered to him in the downtown section of Louisa. A charge from a sixteen-gauge shotgun struck Thompson in the left side of his back, killing him instantly. Thompson was 52 years old and an employee  C. & O.   He was a former police officer of Louisa. He is survived by his widow and seven children. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-21-1939




OCTOBER - 1939

ARMS, Harmon
1939
WEST VAN LEAR YOUTH DIES
Harmon Arms, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dan Arms, of West Van Lear, died at their home there at 4:00 a.m. Wednesday. Funeral will be held today at West Van Lear. Besides his parents he is survived by one sister. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-5-1939


CONLEY, Mintie (Fairchild)
1939
MINTIE CONLEY LOCAL WOMAN DIED MONDAY
East End Woman Succumbs To Effects Of Blood Poisoning
Mrs. D. B. Conley died at her home on Euclid Avenue, east Paintsville, at 9 o'clock Monday morning.  Mrs. Conley was born in Johnson county, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Levi Fairchild, and was 55 years old at the time of her death.  She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church of Paintsville. Mrs. Conley had been ill only a short time.  A few months ago she had a severe attack of blood poisoning but had apparently recovered from the attack at the time.  However she has been in ill health since that time and it is believed the effects of the blood poisoning caused complications which led to her death. Mrs. Conley was an excellant Christian woman with many friends and her death is deeply regretted. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church on upper Third street Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock.  Rev. Horne, of Auxier, conducted the services.  Burial was in the Wells cemetery in Bridgford Addition.  The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture had charge of the arrangements. Besides her husband she is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Warrick Hayslett, of Jennies Creek, Mrs. Earl McCloud of Paintsville, and Miss Marjorie Conley at home.  She is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. Clarenda Fitzpatrick, of Jennies Creek, and Mrs. T. J. Leek, of Portsmouth, Ohio. Paintsville Herald Thursday October 5, 1939


FAIRCHILD, Moses Brenford
1939
DEATH CLAIMS PROMINENT FUGET MAN
Brenford Fairchild, 60, Succumbs to Heart Ailment
Brenford Fairchild, 60 years old, of Fuget, this county, died at his home there last Friday, October 27, 1939.  He had been suffering for the past few years from a heart ailment and his death was not unexpected. Funeral services were held at the home at Fuget Sunday, October 29, 1939, and burial was made in the family cemetery there. Mr. Fairchild was well known all over Johnson County and was universally liked.  he was a member of an old pioneer Johnson County family.  He was born and lived his entire life in the county.  He was a farmer and was engaged in the lumber business until he became too ill to work.  He has a wide circle of friends and relatives.  He is survived by his widow and two daughters. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 2, 1939
 
 FAIRCHILD, Moses Brenford 1879-1939 OBITUARY Moses Brenford Fairchild, son of Andrew and Cynthia Ellen Fairchild was born July 11, 1879, deceased this life October 27, 1939. Age sixty years, three months, and sixteen days. He was married to Ida Mae VanHoose, August 20, 1878 and to this union was born four children. Two, of whom preceded him in death. Surviving are Mrs. Lloyd Estep, Fuget, and Mrs. Ova Williams, Volga. He also leaves the following brothers and sisters, Mary VanHoose, Fullerton, KY, Emma Baldwin, Oil Springs, KY, Alkie McKenzie, Volga, KY; Nim Fairchild, Richmondale, OH; James H. Fairchild, Oil Springs, KY. He was converted and joined the Missionary Baptist Church when he was sixteen years of age. The children and mother have lost a wonderful father and a loving husband. The neighbors a true friend. He was loved and respected by all who knew him. Funeral services were conducted at Spice Coal Church house, with the Rev. Freddie Crislip, Harry Salyer and Dennis Williams officiating. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY NOVEMBER 9, 1939


GRIM, Shady
1939
SHADY GRIM DIED AT NIPPA WEDNESDAY
Had Been a Minister of United Baptist Church 13 Years
Rev. Shady Grim, age 57, prominent citizen of the Toms Creek section, died at his home at Nippa post office Wednesday of this week, after a short illness. He had been in ill health for four years, but his condition had not been considered serious, and his death was a shock to his family and friends.  He had worked on his farm gathering corn on Tuesday and died Wednesday. Rev. Grim had been a minister of the United Baptist Church for thirteen years.  He was a member of Concord Church and was regarded as one of the county's best citizens. He was a member of a large and prominent family.  He was a son of W. W. and Susan (George) Grim.  His father died several years ago but his mother survives at the age of 90. Besides his aged mother he is survived by his wife, Mrs. Virgie (Price) Grim, and the following children: Wilbert William and Luther Grim, of Ashland; George Douglas Grim at home; Mrs. Leslie Combs, Paintsville; Mrs. Oneida Daniel, Nippa, and Exer Elizabeth Grim at home.  He also is survived by two brothers, Bascom Grim, of Nippa, and Mark Grim, Lucasville, Ohio; three sisters, Mrs. Asa Blair and Mrs. Ed Pelphrey, of Van Lear, and Mrs. Ross Castle, of Ashland. Funeral services were held today (Thursday) at the home in charge of Rev. Dennis Caldwell, Rev. Leonard Walters, and Rev. Guy W. Preston. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Nippa, in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-19-1939


HATFIELD, Tolbert
1939
LAST OF HATFIELD CLAN IS DEAD
Ransom, Ky.-Tolbert Hatfield, 89, a “neutral” in the Hatfield- McCoy feud of the 80’s, is dead from natural causes. Hatfield, probably the last witness to the warfare between the two Eastern Kentucky mountain families, died at his home here Tuesday, October 31. Tolbert Hatfield served as Justice of the Peace during the feud and kept discreetly to the side-lines while his kinsmen traded shots with the McCoys. Paintsville Herald Wednesday November 2, 1939

HOWARD, Infant
1939
Infant Died Tuesday
An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Howard, of Southland, died at their home there Tuesday. The child had been ill for two weeks. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-12-1939


LEMASTER, Percilla
1939
FUNERAL HELD FRIDAY Manila, Ky.
The body of Mrs. Percilla Lemaster, of Staffordsville, was brought to the home of her niece, Mrs. F. M. Tackett, Thursday night, and funeral services were conducted Friday morning by Rev. Lonza Reed. Mrs. Lemaster was a member of the church for 50 years. She leaves to mourn their loss, one sister, Mrs. Judy Blanton, a daughter, Mrs. Grace Salyer, of Oil Springs, and a son, Floyd Lemaster, of Staffordsville, with whom she made her home, and seven children in Washington. Burial was made in the Blanton cemetery on Blanton Branch. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 2, 1939


MUSIC, Andrew Jackson
1939
Andrew J. Music Dies In Puaski, Va.;
Buried At Boons Camp
Andrew Jackson Music, 68 years old and a former resident of Johnson  County, died at the home of his son in Pulaski, Va., Friday, October  27. The body was brought to Boons Camp where funeral services were held  Monday, October 30.  He is survived by two sons, O. P. Music, of  Pulaski, Va., and W. B. Music of Alpha, Ill.  Four sisters and three  brothers also survive.  Funeral arrangements were in charge of the  Paintsville Funiture Co. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 2, 1939


PACK, George W.
1939
GEORGE W. PACK PROMINENT MAN DIES IN HUNTINGTON
George W. Pack, 70, Passes At St. Mary's Hospital George W. Pack, age 70, prominent merchant of Williamsport, died at St. Mary's Hospital in Huntington Tues.. He had been ill three weeks.  He was taken to the hospital Friday for treatment. Mr. Pack was one of the county's best citizens and businessmen and had raised a family of five boys and one girl who are prominent in the business and social life of the county. Mr. Pack had been a merchant for more than 35 years and was conducting a general merchandise store at Williamsport at the time of his death. Besides his widow, he is survived by the following children; Mrs. Chas. E. Hoschar, Gaylord Pack and E. L. Pack, of Paintsville, Walter, Herbert and Arnold Pack of Williamsport.  He is also survived by twenty-five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the Pack home at Williamsport in charge of Rev. Guy W. Preston.  Burial in the family cemetery near the home. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of funeral arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday October 12, 1939


SPRADLIN, Harrison
1939
Harrison Spradlin Passes Denver, Ky.
The many friends and relatives of Harrison Spradlin were sorry to hear of his death and extend their sympathy to the bereaved family. He leaves two brothers, Smith and Sant Spradlin, both of this place, where he was born and reared. He died at Matewan, W. Va., where he had employment. Smith Spradlin and a nephew Tom Spradlin, and a niece, Mrs. Verlie Ratliff, attended the funeral and burial there. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 2, 1939


SPRADLIN, Sam
1939
Sam Spradlin Dies At Prestonsburg
Sam Spradlin, 65, first president of the Kiwanis Club died at his home at Prestonsburg last week. He had been in ill health since 1936 and had been retired from active business. He was a veteran of the Spanish-American War, a Mason and a member of the Prestonsburg City Council. Surviving are his wife and five children, Mrs. John W. Hensley, Greenville Spradlin, and Mrs. Mort Nichols, Webster Springs, W. Va., and William Arnold Spradlin and Joe Alex Spradlin, of Prestonsburg. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 2, 1939


WHEELER, Eliza Jane (Phillips)
1866-1939
AGED WOMAN DIED MONDAY AT AGE OF 73
Mrs. W. H. Wheeler Member of Baptist Church 50 Years
Mrs. Eliza Jane Wheeler, age 73, died at the home of a daughter, Mrs. S. K. Preston, of Preston street, East Paintsville, Monday at 11 a.m. Mrs. Wheeler had been ill for three months, suffering from a complication of diseases and the infirmities of age. Although in good spirits the end came peacefully while she was being served her noonday meal. Mrs. Wheeler was a devout Christian and had been a member of the United Baptist Church for half a century.  Her husband, W. H. Wheeler, preceded her in death ten years ago. She is survived by the following children: Mrs. A. T. Pack, Mrs. B. J. Hall and Wm. Wheeler, of Paintsville; Mrs. Wiley Ward, Winifred, and Mrs. A. L. Williams of Ashland.  She is also survived by the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. John Sparks, Paintsville; Mrs. M. M. Salyer, Flat Gap; M. P. Phillips, Van Lear; Harry Phillips, Louisa, and Rev. Sandy Phillips, of Lucasville, Ohio. Funeral services were held at the United Baptist Church, corner of Second and Church streets, at 10 a.m. Wednesday morning. Interment was made in the family cemetery at Flat Gap in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-19-1939
 
 Eliza Jane Phillips Wheeler, daughter of William and Margaret Phillips was born October 5, 1866, deceased October 16, 1939, age 73 years and 11 days. She was married to W. H. Wheeler, December 12, 1884 and to this union were born nine children; three of whom and her husband preceded her in death.  Surviving are: W. M. Wheeler, Mrs. B. J. Hall, Mrs. A. T. Pack, Mrs. S. K. Preston, of Paintsville, Ky.; Mrs. Wiley Ward, Winifred; and Mrs. A. L. Williams of Ashland.  All being present except Mrs. Williams who was a recent patient in the Kings' Daughter's Hospital. She also leaves the following brothers and sisters: M. P. Phillips, Van Lear; Harry Phillips, Louisa; Sandy Phillips, Lucasville, O.; Mrs. John Sparks, Paintsville; Mrs. M. M. Salyer, Flat Gap. She was converted and joined the United Baptist Church at Bethel and was baptized by Elder J. Powell Ferguson about fifty years ago.  She lived a faithful, devoted christian life, and exemplified the teaching of our Savior in her daily walks and in her teaching her family and friends by example. The children have lost a wonderful mother, the church a real soldier for Christ, the neighbors a true friend.  She was loved and respected by all who knew her.  Her deeds and words will live long in the memory of her friends.  We sorrowfully submit it all into the hands of God with the hope we will meet again in the Land where we will never grow old. Funeral services were conducted at the Paintsville United Baptist Church with Rev. Guy W. Preston, Alonzo Wright and F. F. Riggsby officiating.  Burial was in the family cemetery at Flat Gap. A precious one from us has gone A voice we loved is stilled;  A place is vacant in our home,  Which never can be filled. God in His Wisdom has recalled The boon his love had given,  And though the body slumbers here,  The soul is safe in Heaven. Paintsville Herald  Thursday October 19, 1939


WILLIAMS, Clay
1939
CLAY WILLIAMS DIES IN LEXINGTON
Wittensville, KY--Clay Williams, age 81, who died in Lexington was brought here for burial Monday, October 9, 1939.  He was the father of Frank Williams of this place.  The bereaved family has the deepest sympathy of the community. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-12-1939



NOVEMBER - 1939

ARNDT, Bennie (Pennington)
1939
Sister Of Local Woman Is Buried In Ohio
Funeral services for Mrs. Bennie Pennington Arndt, 41, a native of Webville, Ky., were conducted at Cleveland, Ohio. Mrs. Arndt died early Thursday after a recurrent illness. Surviving are her husband, E. Ardt, Cleveland; one daughter, Dorothy Leone, 14; her father, A. J. Pennington, Denton, Ky., and three sisters, Belva Sparks, Denton, Mrs. J. H. Holbrook, Paintsville and Mrs. Charles Juergensmeyer, Fullerton, Ky. Burial was at Cleveland, O. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-23-1939


BAILEY, Beatha
1939
Miss Beatha Bailey, age about 25 years, received injuries Friday from which she died a few hours later. The tragedy took place on the Mayo trail through Stafford Addition, near the Open Air Market, at 8:30 or 9;00 o'clock. Miss Bailey is said to have been walking along the edge of the pavement when she was struck by a passing car. She was accompanied by a girl companion who escaped injury. The car is said to have been making  considerable speed at the time and the impact of the car knocked the girl several feet down the highway. When found she was unconscious. Miss Bailey was taken to the Golden Rule Hospital where she died shortly after midnight. The body had been bruised and lacerated, but the primary cause of death was a fracture of the shull caused by the head striking the cement pavement. She never regained consciousness. C. M. McCoy of Pikeville was arrested by local officers and charged with being the driver of the car which caused the girls death. His examining trial will be held next Tuesday before County Judge Claude Buckingham. Miss Bailey was a daughter of Mrs. May Bailey, who resides in the Jennies Creek section. The body was taken to Denver where funeral services and burial took place Sunday afternoon. Young McCoy bears a good reputation and was not drinking when the accident occured. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-30-1939


BLAIR, Albert
1939
ALBERT BLAIR DIES
The death angel visited the home of Mrs. Albert Blair Thursday and took from her a loving companion.  He leaves his wife, Mrs. Flora Ratliff Blair, two daughters, Mrs. Berlin Blair, Denver and Mrs. Herbert Young, Van Lear and three sons, Cecil, Wayne and Raymond, of Denver, besides a number of other relatives and friends.  He was laid to rest near his home. Barnetts Creek Man Passes Albert Blair, age 61, died at the Golden Rule Hospital here last Thursday, November 23, following an operation.  He was a well known citizen of the Barnetts Creek section and his passing is deeply deplored by a large number of relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted Saturday in charge of Reverends Millard O'Bryan and Liss Blair. He is survived by his widow and a number of children. Burial was made in the family cemetery on the Left Fork of Barnetts Creek. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of the burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 30, 1939


BLANTON, Rose
1939
Former County Woman Victim of "Rabbit Fever"
Mrs. Rose Blanton, 68, Succumbs After Dressing Rabbit The following news dispatch from Mt. Vernon, Ohio, tells of the death of Mrs. Rose Blanton, well known in Johnson County, where she has many relatives. Her death was attributed to tularemia, or "rabbit fever". Mt. Vernon's first victim of  "rabbit fever". Mrs. Rose Blanton, 68, of 403 North Main street, formerly of Fish Trap, Ky., died here last week at the Mt. Vernon Hospital Sanitarium. A relatively new disease in Ohio, tularemia, or "rabbit fever", has been spreading in Mt. Vernon ever since the opening of the rabbit season, until there are now about seven cases in the city as nearly as can be determined. Mrs. Blanton was taken to the hospital on November 21 when she became ill after dressing a rabbit. Mrs. Blanton was the widow of the late Harmon Blanton. She is survived by four sons, Edgar Lemaster, of Portsmouth, Ohio, Glenn Blanton, Clyde Blanton, and Hobart Blanton, all of Mt. Vernon; three daughters, Mrs. Ethel Gullett, Mt. Vernon; Mrs. Mollie Morris, Portsmouth, and Mrs. Fay Salyers, Prospect, Ohio; twenty four grandchildren and two sisters, Mrs. Haden Rice, of Volga, Ky., and Mrs. Lydia Clark, of Paintsville, Ky. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, at the home of Dennis Gullett, at 403 N. Main street with the Rev. Edwin Haggard officiating. Burial was made in Mount View Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-7-1939


BRAND, Mrs. John
1939
Mrs. John Brand, 45, Passes Here Friday Morning
Mrs. John Brand, age 45, died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Brand, of Fifth street at 3 a.m., Friday morning. Mrs. Brand was well known and respected. Recently she underwent an operation for removal of a clot on the brain from which she never recovered. Mrs. Brand had lived in Paintsville and Johnson county for the past several years where her husband is engaged in the oil business in the Johnson-Magoffin field. Short funeral services were held from the Brand home Saturday afternoon, with Rev. H. E. Trent, pastor of the M. E. Church, in charge. The body was then taken to East Rochester, Ohio, where further services and burial took place Monday. Mrs. Brand is survived by her husband, one stepson and her father and mother, who reside at East Rochester, Ohio. Paintsville Herald 11-16-1939 Thursday


BURKE, Calvin
1939
Retired Farmer Succumbs At Age of 81 Years
Calvin Burke, 81, retired farmer of West Van Lear, died at his home there Tuesday night, November 7. He suffered a heart attack last Thursday and developed pneumonia fron which his death resulted. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at the Christian Church in West Van Lear and burial will be in the family cemetery there. He is survived by his wife and twelve children. They are: Mrs. Lindsey Fairchild, Mrs. Green Conley, Mrs. Sam Greer, Mrs. Denver Williams; Misses Ruth and Fanny Burke. His sons are H. C., Everett, Howard, Arch, Greer, and John Burke. Mr. Burke was a member of the Christian Church of West Van Lear and a popular and highly regarded citizen of his community. All his children are residents of Johnson County and all hold prominent places in their communities. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-9-1939


CAUDILL, Fred
1939
DEATH CLAIMS MR. CAUDILL
A shock to his many friends was the death of Fred Caudill in  Newhalling, Ohio, where he was employed.  His death was caused by a  heart attack.  Those who survive are his father, Mr. Sanford Caudill,  Washington Court House, Ohio; three sisters Mrs. Jeffie Stambaugh,  West Jefferson, Ohio; Miss Flora Caudill, West Jefferson, Ohio; Mrs.  Bennie Perry, Van Lear; and many friends. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 16, 1939


DANIEL, James Randall
1939-1939
THEALKA INFANT DIED LAST WEEK
James Randall Daniel, seven-weeks-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Randall  Daniel, died last week at the Daniel home at Thealka.  The body was  taken to Mingo for interment in the family cemetery.  Besides his  parents he is survived by one small sister.   Paintsville Herald Thursday November 16, 1939


FIELDS, Martha
1939
Mother of Three Dies At Odds, Ky
Mrs. Martha Fields, 48, well known woman of Odds, this county, died at her home there November 25. Mrs. Fields had been afflicted with high blood pressure and her death was attributed to a sudden heart attack. Besides her husband, Millard Fields, she is survived by three small daughters, in addition to a large number of relatives and friends. Burial took place Saturday in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday November 30, 1939


HOWARD, Henry A.
1939
Henry A. Howard, was born in Johnson County, Kentucky. He was the son of Campbell and Martha Daniel Howard. His entire life was spent in the county in which he was born. Brother Henry had the misfortune of coming into this world both deaf and dumb, and because of this misfortune, he recieved his education at the Kentucky School for the Deaf, at Danville, Kentucky. Early in his life, on May 25, he met and was married to Elsie Lemaster, of Hager Hill, Kentucky, who was the daughter of Elder Roscoe Lemaster. On Feburary 5, he was converted and joined the United Baptist Church at Paintsville, Kentucky, and ever lived true to its teachings and practices. In proof of this living, in his last days and hours, he was able to tell his friends and relatives that he was going to that country where there would be no more troubles or trials. He leaves to mourn their loss his wife and his aged mother, Mrs. Martha Salyers, Lawrence county; one brother, Monterville Howard, and four sisters, Mrs. Albert Boyd, Harold, Kentucky; Miss Ruth Howard, Paintsville; Mrs. May Prather, Pikeville, Kentucky, and Mrs. Neva Skaggs, Paintsville. We feel that in the passing of Brother Henry Howard the church has lost a valuable member, but our loss is heaven's gain. He died at the age of 36 years, 11 months and 21 days. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-16-1939


PRESTON, Amanda
1939
Aged Lawrence Woman Dies Louisa, Ky.
Mrs. Amanda Preston, 93, widow of the late Judge Frances Preston of the Charley section, died Tuesday noon at the home of a son, J. Preston at Charley, after a ten week's illness of complications incident to old age. Funeral rites were held from the J. Preston home at Charley Thursday morning at 10 o'clock with the Rev. Dave Al Hayes officiating and interment was made in the family cemetery near Charley. Mrs. Preston was born and reared in Martin County. She had been a member of the Freewill Baptist Church for 70 years. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Fred Wicheler, of Catlettsburg, Ky., and Mrs. Lindsey Hayes, of Mechanicsburg, Ohio, and four sons, J. Preston, Louisa R-1; Frank Preston, Thealka, Ky.; Edgar Preston, Louisa R-1, Ransom Preston, Georges Creek, Ky. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-9-1939


PRICE, Robert
1908-1939
ROBERT PRICE SUCCUMBS TO TYPHOID
Local Man Taken To Old Home For Burial
Robert Price, age 31, died last week at the Paintsville Hospital following an illness of a few weeks from typhoid.  Mr. Price resided in the "Narrows," about two miles south of Paintsville. He was born at Richardson, Lawrence county, in May, 1908, and was a son of Ine and Hattie (Davis) Price. He moved to Paintsville in 1935 and became an employee of the Paintsville Grocery Company.  He was married to Carma Brickley in 1935. To this union were born two children, Vivian Marie, 2 years old, and Virgil Edwin, 1 year. Besides his widow and children he is survived by his father and mother and the following brothers and sisters: Rell Elmo Price, Richardson, Ky.; Harry, Herman, Raymond, and Paul Jean Price, all of Rush, Ky.; Eva May VanHoose, Hazard, Ky.; Ella Butcher Preston, Opal Preston, Frances Price, Margaret Price, and Helen Ann Robinett, all of Richardson. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church in Paintsville Tuesday at 1 o'clock. Reverends Burns Conley, Millard VanHoose, Scott Castle and Rev. Calvin were in attendance. The body was taken to Richardson by the Preston Funeral Home where interment took place in the family cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 9, 1939


STURGILL, Lydia
1939
DEATH CLAIMS 2 AGED COUNTY  CITIZENS
Mrs. Sturgill and  Albert Blair Buried Over Week End Deaths of two Johnson County people, prominent in their respective communities, were reported during the later part of the week. Mrs. Lydia Sturgill, 70 years old, died at her home at Davisville, Saturday, November 25.  She was the wife of Jim Sturgill, prominent farmer of that section.  Her death was attributed to the infirmities of age. She was a member of the United Baptist Church and had long held membership in Old Hood Church. She is survived by her aged husband and a number of close relatives throughout the county.  She was childless. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday, in charge of Reverends George W. Gibbs and Jiles Wheeler.  Burial was on the home farm in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY NOVEMBER 30, 1939


TACKETT, William
1939
William Tackett Dies, Age 80
William Tackett, eighty years old, died at his home in the King Addition last Friday night, November 17.  He had been blind for several years and contracted pneumonia s short time before his death. Funeral services were held from the home of his stepson, Lonnie Hall in Auxier, Sunday, November 19. Burial was in the family cemetery there. Mr. Tackett is survived by his widow and five sons, Brittain Tackett of Garrett; Jessie and Clyde of Auxier; Sherman of East Point and Thomas who lived at home.  Two step-sons, Jack and Lonnie Hall also survive.  For many years he was a valued employee of the North-East Coal Co., but retired several years ago.  He will be missed by his family and a large number of friends and relatives. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-23-1939



DECEMBER - 1939


BORDERS, Mary Lou (Charles)
1939
White House Woman Claimed by Death
Mrs. Nathan Borders, age 35, of White House, died at her home there Thursday, December 21, following a long illness from tuberculosis. Besides her husband she is survived by her father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Charles, of Hager Hill, three children, Jay Lee, Willadean and Walter Hubert, all at home, four brothers and three sisters. Funeral services were held at the home Saturday morning.  December 23, in charge of Elder E. D. Preston Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-4-1940


CASTLE, Wayne Douglas
1939
Castle Child Is Claimed By Death
Wayne Douglas Castle, the little son of Mr. and Mrs. Homer Castle,  died at the home of his parents Saturday night, December 16, after an  illness of only 24 hours.  He was 16 months old.  Funeral services  and burial were held Monday, December 18, with the Rev. Roscoe Lemaster  officiating.  He is survived by his parents and one brother, Eugene  Castle.  His grandparents, Mrs. and Mrs. Garrett Castle, also survive. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 4, 1940


DANIEL, Herschell
1939
HERSCHELL DANIEL
County Man Killed In Mine At Seco
Funeral Services For Herschell Daniel At Concord Sunday Funeral services were held at Concord at 2 o’clock last Sunday afternoon for Herschell (Hut) Daniel, 35, who was killed in a slate fall in the mines of the South-East Coal Company, at Seco, Ky., last Thursday, December 14, 1939. Rev. Guy W. Preston and Rev. Leonard Walters had charge of the services. Mr. Daniel was a native of Johnson County, but was working as a miner in the Kentucky River coal fields when killed. He was a son of W. E. Daniel, of Thealka. The body was prepared for burial by the Preston Funeral Home and taken to the home of his father at Thealka. Besides his widow, Mrs. Madge (McDowell) Daniel, he is survived by his father, one brother, Clyde Daniel, of Millstone, Ky., and four sisters, Misses Monnie and Charlotte Daniel, both of Thealka; Mrs. Thelma Hager, of Auxier, Ky., and Mrs. Lillian Preston, of Seco. His mother precede him in death one year ago. Burial was made in the cemetery near the Concord United Baptist Church. Thursday December 21, 1939 The Paintsville Herald


HAYES, Mabel (Butler)
1939
Kin of Local People Dies Last Week in Catlettsburg
Word has been received of the death of Mrs. G. D. Hayes, of Catlettsburg.  She died at her home there after an illness of many months.  Funeral services were held Wednesday at the Baptist Church in Catlettsburg, and burial was in the family cemetery in Staffordsville. Mrs. Hayes was formerly Miss Mable Butler, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James P. Butler, of Staffordsville.  Mr. Hayes is a brother of Mrs. Flem Griffith. Surviving are her husband; three daughters, Mrs. Oliver Sloan, Catlettsburg, and Betty and Ruth Jane Hayes, at home; also the following brothers and sisters: Tom Butler, Lonnie Butler, Mrs. John W. Leake, Mrs. Lloyd Preston, Mrs. Gaius Hampton, and Malta Butler, all of Paintsville. Hayes, Mrs. G. D. (Mable) PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 12-7-1939


METZLER, George
1939
CATHOLIC PRIEST DIES AT HUNTINGTON
Father Geo. Metzler, 57, Well Known In Sandy Valley Father George Metzler, age 57, died at the St. Mary’s Hospital, Huntington, WV, Saturday morning, December 24. Father Metzler was well known in the Big Sandy Valley. He had been stationed at Van Lear for many years and was engaged in missionary work throughout the valley. During the past summer Father Metzler had been substituting for Father Alfred Hanses at the Holy Family Church at Ashland. He had been ill for three weeks. He was born in Alsace-Lorraine, then a part of Germany, now a part of France, and was educated in France. He spent 15 years in African missionary work before coming to America 15 years ago. Since that time he has been stationed at Van Lear. Last rites for Father Metzler were conducted at the Holy Family Church in Ashland on Wednesday, December 17, Rev. Francis W. Howard, D.D., Bishop of Covington, in charge. Father Metzler had no immediate surviving relatives in this country. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JAN 4, 1940


POWER, Minerva (Goble)
1885-1939
AGED MEALLY WOMAN DIES
Mrs. Minerva Power, 71, Passes Friday, December 8 Mrs Minerva (Goble) Power, 71, of Meally, this county, died at her home there last Friday, December 8, from the infirmities of advanced age. Funeral services were conducted at the home in charge of Rev. Spurgeon Honeycutt. Burial in the family cemetery at Meally. She was married to George Power November 12, 1885, and to this union were born eleven children, six boys and five girls. Of this number two are dead., Gilbert Power and Willie Power. Those surviving are Garfield Power, Jerry Power, Rosie Music, Aggie Music, Ada Murphy, Cinda Short, Carl Power, Lula Wells and Estill Power. She is also survived by forty-one grandchildren and eight great-grand children. She is also survived by two brothers and one sister, George and Christopher Goble and Mrs. Harriet Mann. Mrs. Power was a good Christian mother and highly respected in her community. She became a member of the Church of Christ many years ago, and remained  faithful to her church and family until her death. Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-14-1939


PRICE, Effie (Daniel)
1939
Death Claims Williamsport Woman Dec. 27
Mrs. C. C. Price Passes At age of Forty-six Years Mrs. Effie Daniel Price, 46, died at her home at Williamsport, December 27, at 9:30 p.m. She was the daughter of James Hamilton and Mary McFarland Daniel, who preceded her in death many years ago. Mrs. Price was a good Christian woman and had lived a devoted life.  She had been a member of Old Friendship Church for 26 years.  She was a good housewife, devoted to her home and family and will be missed by people of her community. She is survived by her husband, C. C. Price, and three sons and two daughters.  They are: Henry Price, Starrett, W. Va.; Hansford, Evalina and Mary R. Price, at home; three brothers and one sister, Leonard Daniel, Weeksbury; Lloyd Daniel, Wayland, Frank Daniel and Mrs. E. L. Pack, Williamsport, and many relatives and friends. Funeral services were in charge of Reverends Leonard Walters, Meally; Rev. Winfrey Meek, Boons Camp; Leonard Arrowood, Van Lear; Sammy Preston, Lafe Preston, Tip Preston, and L. T. Preston, of Williamsport. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-4-1940


REDD, Herman
1939
FORMER PAINTSVILLE CITIZEN DIES MONDAY IN CHARLESTON
News has been received in Paintsville of the death of Herman Redd, who formerly lived in Paintsville.  He died in Charleston, W. Va., Monday after a long illness.  He was a member of the staff of the West Virginia Coal Association.  He was 50 years old. He was a World War veteran and was active in the American Legion.  He was a native of Harrison county, and had practiced law in Pikeville.  After the war he became private secretady to James D. Francis, president of the Island Creed Coal Company, at Huntington.  In 1930, he joined the coal association. Mr. Redd formerly resided in Paintsville with his parents, Rev. and Mrs. J. D. Redd while Rev. Redd was serving as pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday DEC 21 1939


RICE, David
1939
DEATH  CLAIMS DAVID RICE, AGED CITIZEN
Member of Prominent Family Succumbs At Age of 86 David Rice, 86, member of a prominent Johnson County family, died at his home at Riceville, Wednesday, December 27. He had been ill for two years and death was not expected. Mr. Rice had been prominent in business circles for many years.  He formerly resided at Denver where he conducted a mercantile establishment for many years. Funeral services were held at the Liberty Missionary Baptist Church, at Denver at 11 o'clock Thursday morning.  Rev. Sam Sloan, pastor of the Paintsville Missionary Baptist Church, was in charge of the services. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Denver, with the Preston Funeral Home in charge. He is survived by his widow and one brother living in Ohio.  He is also survived by a large number of relatives and numerous friends throughout the county. Mr. Rice had resided in the Jennies Creek section throughout his life. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-4-1940

   
ROBINSON, Enoch
1939
Death Claims E. Robinson Aged Citizen
Well Known Citizen Succumbs After Long Illness Enoch Robinson, age 75 years, well known citizen, died at his home in West Paintsville Saturday, December 16.  He had been in ill health for more than a year, a sufferer from asthma, but had been confined to his home for about two months. Mr. Robinson was born in Johnson County.  He moved his family to Paintsville more than thirty years ago and engaged in the livery business and conducted a livery barn until horses and buggies were crowded out by the encroachment of automobiles.  Since that time Mr. Robinson had been engaged in various other business enterprises. Through his business connections he became widely known and respected throughout the county. He served for a time as a policeman of Paintsville. Funeral services were held at the First M. E. Church at 2 o’clock Monday afternoon.  Rev. G. W. Townsend, of Russell, a former pastor of the church and a friend of the family, had charge of the services.  He was assisted by Rev. H. E. Trent, the regular pastor.  The Preston Funeral Home had charge of funeral arrangements. Burial was made in the family lot in Mayo Cemetery. Mr. Robinson was twice married.  His first marriage was to Nancy Music and to this union was born ten children, Mrs. Roy Melvin, Paintsville; Mrs. Bascom Taylor, Nippa; Mrs. Bill Brown, Catlettsburg; Mrs. Bert Castle, of Ohio, and Mrs. Lucy Fitch, of Leander; five boys, John Robinson, Bill Robinson, and Manuel Robinson, all of Paintsville, and James Robinson, of Portsmouth, Ohio.  Another son, Freddie Robinson, died here about two years ago. His second marriage was to Mrs. Anna Gillespie.  To this union was born one son, Enoch Robinson, Jr.  Mrs. Robinson survives. Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-21-1939

  
SALYER, Belle (Castle)
1939
VAN LEAR WOMAN DIES CHRISTMAS
MRS. BELLE SALYER, 60, SUCCUMBS AFTER LONG ILLNESS
Christmas was a sad day for the family of Mrs. Belle Castle Salyer, age 60, who died at the home of her son, Oscar Salyer, of Van Lear. Mrs. Salyer had been in bad health for a number of years. She was a member of a large and prominent family being a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Castle. She was born in Scott County, Va. but came to Johnson Co with her parents when a small girl where she spent the remainder of her life. She was a devout Christian, having joined the United Baptist Church at the age of  19. Funeral services were held on Thursday afternoon, December 28, at Kerz. Burial was made in the Jones cemetery at that place. Mrs. Salyer is survived by her husband, James Salyer, and the following children: Cranston Salyer, Sitka; Estill Salyer, West Van Lear, Ralph and Oscar Salyer, Van Lear and Mrs. Ruie Sherman, West Van Lear. She is also surved by five sisters, Mrs. Murzie Brown, Sitka, Miss Ida Castle, Elna, Mrs. E. Tackett, Staffordsville, Mrs. Jesse White, Lowmansville. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 04, 1940

  
STEPP, Mose
1939
Mose Stepp Found Dead At His Home At Richardson
Mose Stepp, age 45, was found dead in his home at Richardson Wednesday, December 13, 1939.  Mr. Stepp was a bachelor and lived alone.  An investigation showed that Mr. Stepp died from natural causes and had been dead two or three days when the body was found. The body was prepared for burial at the Preston Funeral Home and taken back to Richardson for interment. Mr. Stepp was born in Johnson County and was a son of the late Joseph Stepp, prominent citizen of the county.  He is survived by one sister, Mrs. W. Ed Fitch, of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday December 21, 1939


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