1940    

JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
  HISTORICAL  & GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
PAINTSVILLE, KENTUCKY

 
OBITUARY WEBSITE
  

1940
 

  JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
RELATED OBITUARIES
1940
 
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JANUARY - 1940

ADAIR, Willie
1940
Willie Adair Dies In Local Hospital
Willie Adair, age about 50, died at Paintsville Hospital Wednesday morning, January 15 1940. He had been ill for several weeks from the effects of blood poisoning. Several Blood transfusions were administered in an effort to save his life, but without success. Funeral services were held at the Christian Church on Thursday afternoon, Jan. 17, in charge of Rev. Fleshman. Burial was in the Wells-Buckingham cemetery in Bridgford. Mr. Adair had worked as janitor at the Paintsville Hospital for several years and was well known and respected. He is survived by his widow and one daughter, Mrs. Corbett Elliott, of Paintsville. The Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of the funeral arrangements. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday     January 25, 1940

ARMS, Rachel
1940
Aged Hager Hill Woman Dies Jan. 22
Funeral services were held for Mrs. Rachel Arms, age 73, who died at the home of her brother, Dan Arms, at Hager Hill, January 22. Services were held from the home with burial at Hager Hill with Preston Funeral Home in charge. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Henry Redford, Alcock, Ky., and one son, W. E. Adams, of New Boston, Ohio. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday     February 1, 1940

BLANTON, John Edward
1940
Former Johnson County Man Dies After suffering for some time from a carbuncle on the back of his neck, John Edward Blanton, of Amba, died at his home Thursday. He was 52 years old. The victim was a native of Johnson County, the son of the late James and Mary Lemaster Blanton. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Myrtle Blanton, 3 sons, Forest Blanton, Cecil Blanton, and Archie Blanton; five daughters, Mrs. Zeal Johnson, Mrs. Hassell Hampton and Misses Lily, Madge, and Helen Blanton, all of Amba. Funeral services were held Saturday, and burial was made in the Amba cemetery.---Floyd County Times. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-1-1940

BORDERS, Sella
1940
Death claims Mrs. Sella Borders, 51
Mrs. Sella Borders, 51, died at her home at Ulysses Ky., Friday, January 26. The body was brought to the Preston Funeral Home here. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church here in charge of Rev. Guy W. Preston. Burial in the home cemetery at Ulysses. She is survived by her husband, Henry Borders, one son, and two daughters. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-1-1940

CARTER, Mrs. John
Former Paintsville Woman Passes
Mrs. John Carter died Friday at 3:15 a.m., at the home of her  daughter, Mrs. Cortis K. Stacy, in West Liberty, after an illness of  three years. She was born in Paintsville November 9, 1859, and had resided in  Morgan County since her marriage in 1881.  Since her husband's death  three years ago she had lived with her daughter, Mrs. Stacy. Surviving are one son, Will Carter, two daughters, Mrs. Ben Nickell,  and Mrs. Cortis Stacy; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted from the Stacy residence at 1. p. m.  Saturday. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 18, 1940

COPLEY, Henry B.
1940
WAYLAND MAN DIES IN FLORIDA
Henry B. Copley, 28, of Wayland, Ky, who had been connected with the supply department of the Elk Horn Coal Co., at that place until his recent illness, died Thursday night January 4, 1940, in Wabasso, Florida, where he had gone for his health.  He arrived at the home of his uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. M.L. Wells, of Wabasso, December 4, a month to a day before his death from a heart attack. Mr. Copley, who formerly lived with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Van Lear, had spent two weeks in the Paintsville Hospital during November. Upon advice of Dr. W.E. Akin, of the Paintsville  Hospital and his family doctor, M.V. Wicker, of Wayland, Mr. Copley had gone to Florida away from the cold weather. His bronchial trouble for which he had received treatment at the Paintsville Hospital had become considerably lessened during his Florida sojourn.  On the afternoon of the day of his death.  Mr. Copley had been feeling all right and had started to drive alone from Wabasso to Vero Beach, a distance of ten miles, when the attack occurred. His cousin Zip Wells, was notified of the attack and rushed Mr. Copley to the Wells home where a doctor was summoned.  Although Mr. Copley was conscious of everything until a few seconds before his death, the physician held no hope for recovery saying upon examination that Mr. Copley could not survive the night. Mr. Copley’s wife, Mrs. Annabell Pow Copley and two of his brothers, Lacy and Edward Copley, left Kentucky at 8:30 o’clock Thursday night for Florida in a vain race with death.  They arrived after midnight Friday night at the Wells home in Wabasso. However Mrs. Copley’s father, George Pow, Chief Engineer for the Wayland firm for which Mr. Copley worked notified his daughter after he learned of Mr. Copley’s death. Snow and ice on the highways leading south forced the party to curtail their speed until they had traveled much of the distance. The body of the victim was placed aboard a northbound passenger Saturday night and arrived in Wayland Sunday night after being met at Winchester by ambulance. Mr. Copley was an excellent young man of good clean habits who made friends with everyone he met.  He was a member of the Methodist Church. Besides his wife and parents Mr. Copley is survived by four sisters, Mrs. BJ Hausman, Dayton , Ohio, Mrs. Joe Furlong, Greenville, Ohio; Mrs. Francis Harmon and Mrs. Paul Ables of Wayland and four brothers C. L. (Lacy) Copley, Alva, KY, Edward Copley, Floyd Copley and George W. Copley Jr., of Wayland. Mr. Copley was born at Dacate, WV. November 16, 1911, and was married to Miss Annabell Pow, may 23, 1933. Funeral services were held at the Wayland Methodist Church Monday afternoon.  Burial was at Prestonburg. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-11-1940

DIXON, Della (Walker) Williams
1867-1940
LONG ILLNESS IS FATAL TO DELLA DIXON
Paintsville Woman Dies At Her Home On Mill Branch Mrs. Della Dixon, prominent and well loved local woman, died at her home on Mill Branch Road last Thursday, January 11. Mrs. Dixon had been in bad health for a number of years but for the past several months had been confined to her bed. Although her death had been expected it was never the less a great shock to her family and friends. Mrs. Dixon was a member of a well known Johnson County family. She was a daughter of the late Foster and Kate (Davis) Walker. She was passed 72 years of age having been born May 11, 1867. She was twice married. Her first marriage was to Isaac Milton Williams in 1883, who preceded her in death 44 years ago. To this union were born four children. They are Everett Williams, deceased, and Kelsie B. Williams, Ralph Williams, and Mrs. Ervin Rice, who survive. Her second marriage was to John Dixon in 1903, who passed away in July of last year. In addition to her children she is also survived by the following relatives; Mrs. Fay Price, of Washington, D. C., and Mrs. Fannie Conley, Middlesboro, Ky., stepdaughters, and one half sister, Miss Esta Walker, of Paintsville. Mrs. Dixon was a devoted Christian mother. She had been a member of the Methodist Church. She joined the church at the age of 19 at Rush Fork and transferred her membership to the First Methodist Church of Paintsville in 1893. Mrs. Dixon was a kind mother with the love and devotion of her children. She was always held in the highest respect by her neighbors and her friends were numbered by those who knew her. This was attested by the large number of her neighbors who gathered at the home to pay their last respects to a friend. Funeral services were held at the home Saturday afternoon. Rev. Millard VanHoose and Rev. F. S. VanHoose, of the Freewill Baptist Church, and Rev. H. E. Trent, pastor of the First M. E. Church, were in charge of the services. Following the funeral services the body was taken to the family lot in the Franklin cemetery on Mayo Farm for internment, and laid to rest beside her two husbands and her son who had preceded her in death. Many hearts have been saddened by the passing, from our midst, of this good woman, but we may be comforted by the following lines; "Not till the loom is silent And the shuttles cease to fly Shall God unroll the canvas, And explain the reason why, The dark threads are as needful In the weaver's skillful hands As the threads of gold and silver In the pattern He has planned." Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-18-1940

FAIRCHILD, Mrs. Alonzo
1940
MRS. FAIRCHILD DIES
(Winifred, Kentucky)
Mrs. Alonzo Fairchild, age 55, widow of the late Alonzo Fairchild was buried here Saturday at the family graveyard. The entire family has the sympathy of our neighborhood. Mrs. Fairchild died on January 5. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JANUARY 11, 1940

HATTON, Mrs. Ben
1940
MOTHER OF NINE DIES HERE FRIDAY
Mrs. Ben Hatton, age 46, of Van Lear, died at the Paintsville Hospital Friday after a few days illness. Funeral services were held Sunday at the Van Lear M.E. Church, Rev. Baldridge conducting the services. Burial was made near Van Lear in charge of the Paintsville Furniture Company. She is survived by her husband and nine children. Paintsville Herald Wednesday January 25, 1940

HEYSER, Richard H.
1940
Former Pikeville Man Killed In Accident
Pikeville, Ky.
Friends were informed of the death of Richard H.  Heyser, Saturday in an automobile accident near Fort Pierce, Fla. A message from his widow said a motor occupied by Heyser, a native of  Pikeville and owner of a club at Grundy, Va., crashed into a bridge on  the Miami-Fort Pierce road.  The body was recovered Monday. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 18, 1940

HORN, Mrs. Taylor
1940
MRS. TAYLOR HORN PASSES
Funeral services for  Mrs. Taylor Horn were held here Sunday at the Church of Christ.  Rev. Mose Kitchen, of Van Lear, conducted the services. Mrs Horn had been ill for some time and was in the a hospital at the time of her death. She leaves to mourn her passing her husband and six children, Herschel, Gertrude, Ruth, Taylor, Jr., Norlene and Sammie all at home, also her aged mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Music, three sisters and four brothers besides a host of other relatives and friends. Mrs. Horn had been a member of the church of God for several years and was loved by everyone who knew her.  She was laid to rest in the family cemetery near East Point.  The Paintsville Furniture Co. was in charge of the funeral services. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-11-1940

KIRK, Tom
1940
FUNERAL RITES FOR KIRK CONDUCTED NEAR LOUISA
Louisa, Ky
Funeral rites were conducted at the Wellman cemetery west of Louisa for Tom Kirk, 68, well-known operator of a water well drilling machine, who died suddenly at his home on Patton Ridge, four miles west of Louisa, Saturday. Mr. Kirk is survived by his wife, Mrs. Rebecca Wellman Kirk, a number of children and three brothers, Emory Kirk, of the Bear Creek section; George Kirk, of Ironton, Ohio and Kiah Kirk, of Kenova, W. Va.; and one sister, Jennie Kirk of Louisa. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JANUARY 8, 1940

MAHAN, Lee
1940
LEE MAHAN DIES IN OHIO AT AGE OF 70
Former Johnson County Citizen Claimed By Death
Relatives in Paintsville and Johnson County have received news of the death of Lee Mahan who died at his home near New Boston, Ohio, January 21. Mr. Mahan, who was near the age of 70, was born in Johnson County where he spent most of his life. He was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Joe Mahan and had many relatives in this section. He was brother of Henry Mahan who died in Paintsville a few years ago. He had been a minister of the gospel several years previous to death. Burial took place in Ohio. Mrs. Harry Pelphrey, Mrs. Anna Ward, Mrs. Verna Browning and Mrs. Alka Melvin, all of Paintsville, were nieces of the deceased. Besides these relatives he is survived by three children, John Maman,(sic, think it is Mahan) Louisville; Howard Mahan and Annalee Mahan, of New Boston; also one sister, Mrs. Cynthia Mahan, of Mingo. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEBRUARY 15, 1940

PICKLESIMER, Kirk
1940
Kirk Picklesimer Died
Meally
Kirk Picklesimer about 22 years of age, son of Mann Picklesimer, died Jan. 4 and was buried on Jan. 6 at Meally. Paintsville Herald  Thursday 1/11/1940

STAPLETON, Oval (Pete)
1940
LOCAL YOUTH IS VICTIM OF PERITONITIS
Oval "Pete" Stapleton Dies Tuesday at Local Hospital
Oval ( Pete ) Stapleton, 22, died Tuesday morning at 8 o’clock at the Paintsville Clinic of peritonitis.  The youth had undergone an operation Monday, January 29, for appendicitis. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ashland Stapleton of Paintsville, and a former student of the Paintsville High School. He was a well liked young man with many friends.  He had been employed by the Purol Service Station for several months. The body was removed to the Preston Funeral Home where it remained until Wednesday when it was taken to Red Bush for funeral  and burial.  Funeral services were held in the United Baptist Church at Red Bush by Rev. Guy W. Preston and Alonzo Wright.  Burial in the family cemetery there. He is survived by his parents, three brothers, John, William, and Homer Stapleton, of Paintsville; four sisters, Miss Leassie Stapleton, and Miss Julia Ann Stapleton at home; Mrs. Richard Auxier, East Point, and Mrs. Jarvis Howard, of Tennessee, Mrs. Howard and family arrived here Tuesday to attend the funeral and burial. February 8, 1940

TAYLOR, Harry
1940
Harry Taylor, 72, Dies January 1
Harry Taylor, age 72, well known citizen of the county, died at the home of his niece, Mrs. Burns McKenzie, at Wittensville January 1.  Mr. Taylor had made his home with Mrs. McKenzie for the past four years.  He had been ill for several months with heart trouble. Funeral services were held at Old Union Church at Staffordsville on Tuesday, January 2. Revs. S. B. Justice, Scott Daniel and Scott Castle conducted the services.  Burial was made in the family cemetery at Staffordsville.  He is survived by five children. Mr. Taylor was born near Paintsville where he spent the greater part of his life. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-11-1940

WARD, Ida (Hinkle)
1940
Mrs. Ida Hinkle Dies At Local Hospital
Mrs. Ida Hinkle died at the Paintsville Clinic Friday, January 26.  The body was removed to the undertaking parlors of the Preston Funeral Home and prepared for burial.  The body remained at the funeral home until Sunday, January 28, when it was removed to the Christian Church at Meally where funeral services were conducted by the Reverend Leonard Walters. Mrs. Hinkle is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Tennessee Mayhew, Martinsburg, W. Va., Mrs. Elizabeth Rennells, Nicholsville, Ky., and Mrs. Tisha Hall, Wayland, Ky.; two sons, Ransom Ward, Wayland, Ky., and Frank Ward, Huntington, W. Va. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-2-1-1940 Error In Death Notice In the death notice of Mrs. Ida Hinkle Ward printed in The Herald last week it was erroneously stated, “Mrs. Ida Hinkle,” when it should have been “Mrs. Ida Hinkle Ward.”  The funeral was held at the Church of Christ at Meally by W. L. Webb instead of by Rev. Leonard Walters. 2-2-8-1940

WELLS, Moses A.
1874-1940
LOCAL MAN DIES HERE MONDAY
Moses A. Wells, 66, Passes At Home on Second St.
Moses Aaron Wells, prominent Paintsville citizen, died at his home on Second street at 11 a.m., Monday, January 1. Mr. Wells had been in bad health for the past several years, but had been seriously ill for the past few weeks suffering from a heart ailment. Mt. Wells was nearly 66 years old, having been born March 17, 1874, at Boons Camp, this county. He was a son of William A. and Mary (Hicks) Wells, deceased, prominent citizens of the Greasy Creek section. He  was a member of a family of 13 children. 9 of whom survive. Mr. Wells was twice married. His first marriage was to Ellen Walters, to which one son was born. Both have preceded him in death. On June 24, 1915, he was again married to Ella O'Boyle, to this union were born one son and one daughter, Clarence B. Wells, of Paintsville and Alice Ruby Wells, now Mrs. Harold both of Louisa. His widow and two children survive. Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. George C. Perry, Paintsville, and Mrs. George Walters, Shoals, W. Va., and seven brothers, Dr. J. A. Wells, John L. Wells and G. C. Wells, all of Paintsville; I. S. Wells and C. J. Wells, Boons Camp; R. G. Wells and E. D. Wells, of Pikeville. Two sisters, Mrs. Charley Davis and Mrs. U. Welch, and one brother, Wm. G. Wells, have preceded him in death. Mr. Wells had been  member of the Methodist Church for 54 years. He was a member of the Wells Chapel Church, one of the oldest Methodist churches in this section. Short funeral services were help at the Wells home Tuesday afternoon at 1 o'clock in charge of Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church. The body was then taken to Boons Camp and interred in the Wells Cemetery on the old Wells homestead farm. Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-4-1940


FEBRUARY - 1940

BALL, William Homer
1940
Former Lawrence County Clerk Dies of Hemorrhage
William Homer Ball Louisa, Ky. – William Homer Ball, 36, former Lawrence County Court Clerk, died at 8:15 a.m. last Thursday, Feb.8, 1940, while feeding cattle on his farm on Rich Creek, nine miles west of Louisa.  A doctor had visited his home to treat him for a cold, but his condition was not believed serious. He suffered a hemorrhage while feeding his cattle and died before a doctor could be summoned. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Walnut Gap Methodist Church near his home, where he was superintendent of the Sunday School. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY Feb.15, 1940

BOWLING, Bailey
1837 -- 1940
VAN LEAR MAN DIES AT AGE OF 103
BAILEY BOWLING, FATHER OF 15, DIES AFTER WEEK'S ILLNESS
Bailey Bowling, possibly the oldest citizen of Johnson county, died at the home of a son at Van Lear Wednesday of this week. According to his children he was 103 years old, having been born in the year 1837. Mr. Bowling was a Virginian and came to the Big Sandy Valley with his parents when a child. He had in good health until a week before his death. His aged wife died 7 months ago. She, too, was near the century mark. The aged man was the father of 15 children, 13 of whom survive. Those living are: P.A. Bowling, Johns Creek; Joe Bowling, Van Lear; John Bowling, Mance Bowling and Amos Bowling, Beaver Creek; Lige Bowling, Pike county; Boyd Bowling, W. Va.; Mrs. Fan Pendleton and Mrs. Rissie Dawson, Daniels Creek; Mrs. Paulina Blair and Mrs. Clarinda Ward, Johns Creek, and Mrs. Nancy Kessenger, of Paintsville. Funeral and burial took place at Van Lear in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. The Paintsville Herald Thursday February 15, 1940

DEATH CERTIFICATE INFORMATION Baily BOWLING Date of Death: February 14, 1940 Place of Death: Van Lear Johnson Co Ky Cause of Death: Gangreene of right foot (Contibutory causes: Frostbite & Senility) Sex: Male Age: 103 Birth Date: Not Listed Place of Birth: Morgan Co Ky Father: Henry BOWLIN born Virginia Mother: Nellie BOWLIN born Virginia Informant: Joe BOWLING Burial: Daniel's Creek (note: Baily BOWLIN's mother was Elender BLANKENSHIP. Henry BOWLIN married Elender BLANKENSHIP March 1835 Tazewell Co Va)

CONLEY, Mary Elizabeth (Salyer)
1940
Funeral Services Held Wednesday For Mrs. Mary E. Conley
Funeral services were held at the home of her son, Buell Conley, on Preston Street, for Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Conley, 75, who died at the Conley home Monday after noon at about 3 o’clock. Death was the result of a cerebral hemorrhage which occurred January 31.  Rev. W. H. McKenzie of the United Baptist Church, conducted the services.  The body was taken to the family cemetery near Flat Gap for burial. Mrs. Conley was the widow of the late Stephen Conley who preceded her in death 17 years ago. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church for forty years. She is survived by the following children; Lonza Conley, Staffordsville; Proctor and Buell Conley, Paintsville; Mrs. Sandord Stapleton, Kerz; Mrs. Lora Sturgill, Sciotoville, Ohio; and Arzie Conley, Jenkins. She is also survived by two brothers, Lum and T. A. Salyer, Flat Gap and one sister, Mrs. Laurina McKenzie, cable, Ohio. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-8-1940

CONLEY, Milton F.
1868-1940
M.F. CONLEY DIES AT LOUISA FEBRUARY 29
FORMER PUBLISHER AND BANKER PASSES AT HOME OF SISTER
Milton F. Conley, founder of the Big Sandy News and former cashier of the Louisa National Bank, died at 5 a.m., Thursday, February 29, 1940, at the home of his sister Mrs. O.C. McDougle, at Louise.  He was 71 years old. Physicans attributed his death  to congestive heart failure.  He was stricken with the ailment on Friday at the McDougle home.  Mr. Conley had recently lived in Roanoke, Va., but came to Louisa ten days before his death to visit his sister. The former editor, who once owned a half interest in the Ashland Daily Independent was born in Johnson County in 1868, the son of the late A.J. & Elizabeth Conley. He went to Louisa when a young  man where he spent the greater part of his life.  In 1885 he and Boyd Ferguson purchased the Lawrence County Index from Col. W.O. Johnson and changed its name to the Big Sandy News.  Later Mr. Conley purchased the interest of his partner and continued as it’s publisher until 1935. The Big Sandy News is still being published and is probably the oldest business in Lawrence county. Mr. Conley was a prominent Democrat.  In 1904 he aided in organizing the Louisa National Bank and was cashier until 1934. He served Kentucky as chairman of the State Board of Charities and Collection at Frankford for six years, four under Governor Fields, and two under Governor Sampson. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Willia Burchett Conley; two daughters, Mrs. B.H. Maben, Roanoke, VA., and Mrs. R.P. Wood of Chicago, IL.; one son N.B. Conley of Plainfield, NJ., and his sister, Mrs. McDougle. Services were held at the McDougle home at Louisa, with Bishop UVW Darlington, of Huntington, WV., in charge. Burial was made in Pine Hill Cemeteries at Louisa. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-7-1940

FYFFE, Arbie
1940
KEATON YOUTH, 15, VICTIM OF BLOOD POISONING
Arbie Fyffe, 16, of Keaton, this county, died at the Paintsville Clinic at 4 o'clock Tuesday afternoon (1940) after a week's illness from blood poisoning. Young Fyffe, a senior in the Flat Gap High School, injured his arm while skating on the ice. Although the skin was unbroken, the youth developed blood poisoning which ended in his death. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Parlie Fyffe. The Paintsville Herald Thursday February 22, 1940

GAMBILL, R. B.
1856-1940
R. B. GAMBILL LONG ILLNESS FATAL TO THEALKA MAN
R. B. Gambill Dies February 10 At Age of 83 Years R. B. Gambill aged Thealka citizen, died at the home of his son there Saturday, February 10, following a long illness. Mr. Gambill was 83 years of age, having been born September 18, 1856. Mr. Gambill was a native of Blaine, Lawrence county, but had made his home with his son at Thealka for some time. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday, February 11, in charge of Rev. Fillmore Gambill. Burial was made in the Wells Cemetary in Bridgeford, in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. He is survived by five children, Lawrence Gambill, Thealka, Hubert Gambill, Asheville, N. C. ; Merrit Gambill, Middletown, Ohio; Raymond Gambill and Mrs. J. F. Crutcher, of Pensacola, Florida. All the children were present for the funeral and burial. In addition to the children he is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Polly Evans, Ashland, and Mrs. Aggie Woods, of Los Angeles, California and sixteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 2-15-1940

GIBBS, Minnie (Blevins)
1940
MINNIE GIBBS
Johnson Woman Dies Near Ashland
Mrs. Minnie Gibbs, wife of Frank Gibbs, died at her home at Pollard Crossing, near Ashland, last week, after an illness of several weeks. She was 53 years of age and was a native of Johnson County. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral services and burial took place at Ashland. Besides her husband she is survived by four sons, Arzie, Willie, Ora, and Junior Gibbs, all of Ashland; three daughters, Mrs. Mary Rice, Mrs. Dorothy Newman, and Miss Berna Ellen Gibbs, all of Ashland, four brothers, Sam, Lindsey, and Roy Belvins, of Betsy Layne, and Troy Belvins, of Ashland; three sisters, Mrs. Wannie Brown, of Betsy Layne, and Mrs. Bernie Salyers and Mrs. Alice Belvins of Paintsville. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 2-8-1940

GRIM, Susan Elizabeth (George)
1852-1940
Death Claims Aged County Woman
Mrs. Susan Elizabeth (George) Grim died at the home of her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Shady Grim, at Nippa, Thursday, February 8. Mrs. Grim was 88 years old having been born in 1852. In 1873 she was united in marriage to Wallace Grim and to this union were born twelve children, seven of whom have preceded her in death.  the five children surviving are Bascom Grim, Nippa; Mark Grim, Portsmouth, Ohio; Mrs. Ross Castle, Ashland; Mrs. Asa Blair and Mrs. Ed Pelphrey, of Van Lear. She had been a member of the church since 1976. In addition to her children and grandchildren she is survived by a large number of other relatives. Funeral and burial took place at Nippa in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-15-1940

HAGER, Bennie
1940
DEATH CLAIMS WEST VAN LEAR CITIZEN
Member of Prominent Family Dies After Long Illness
Bennie Hager, 23, died Wednesday morning at his home at West Van Lear, after an extended illness. Mr. Hager was a member of a prominent Johnson County family and leaves many relatives and friends who mourn his passing. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Hager of Hager Hill. His mother died a few years ago. Beside his father who now resides at West Van Lear he is survived by his widow, Mrs. Ruth Whitaker Hager, and one son, Francis Sterling Hager. He is survived by the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. Arch Fitch, Paintsville; James Hager, Wheelwright, Winfrey Hager, Columbus, OH, and Richard and Ernestine Hager, of Hager Hill. Funeral services were held at the Missionary Baptist Church in Paintsville, Thursday afternoon at 2 o’clock, in charge is the pastor, Rev. Sam Sloan. Burial was made in the family cemetery on the old Hager farm at Hager Hill in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEB 8, 1940

HALL, W. C. (Calloway)
1940
W.C. (Calloway)  Hall Was Teacher Here For 23 Years
Relatives in this county have received news of the death of W.C. (Calloway) Hall of Portsmouth, Ohio which occurred at his home there Feb. 1, 1940. Mr. Hall was 63 years old and was born in Johnson County. He received his education under such educators as J.G. Talbert, Fred A. Vaughn, John B. Wheatley. After qualifying himself as a teacher he taught in the Johnson County schools for 23 years. He served as County Examiner and was County School Supervisor for one year. He also held a number of like positions. Mr. Hall moved with his family to Portsmouth in December 1919 where he excepted a position as a clerk at the Wheeling Steel Mill of that city which he held until his death. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Elizabeth (Williams) Hall; one son, Carl Hall, Wheelersburg, Ohio, one daughter, Millie Hall, at home; two brothers, U.S. Hall, Ashland, Wiley Hall, Deputy Sheriff, Winfred, this county, and one sister, Raussie Hall, also of Winfred, in addition to many relatives and friends in Johnson County, who will regret to learn of his passing. Funeral services were held at the Emrick Funeral Home at Portsmouth, and burial was in the Memorial Burial Park near Wheelersburg, Ohio. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEBRUARY 29, 1940

HOPKINS, Martha
1940
MISS HOPKINS PASSES HERE AFTER STROKE
Teacher and Church Worker For Many Years
Miss Martha Hopkins died at the City View Hospital here at 8 o'clock Thursday evening, Feburary 15, 1940 after three weeks illness. Miss Hopkins, long a teacher in this section, suffered a paralytic stroke at Catlettsburg but was later removed to the local hospital. Miss Hopkins was approximately 80 years old and had spent the greater part of her life as an educator. Funeral services were held at the Mayo Memorial Church Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, with Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor, conducting the services. Burial was in the Wells cemetery in Bridgeford. Miss Hopkins was born in Nashville, Tennessee, where her girlhood days were spent. She graduated from Peabody College. For a number of years she taught in Ward Seminary, which later became Ward Belmont College. For several years Miss Hopkins jointly with Mrs. A. B. Hyde became the head of Salue College in Murfreesboro, Tenn., where a wonderful work was accomplished among girls and young women and many poor girls were given the advantages of an education which otherwise would have been impossible. During the World War Miss Hopkins and Mrs. Hyde sold this institution and became teachers in Marris Harvey College at Barboursville, W. Va., where they remained four years. Miss Hopkins came to the John C. C. College here in 1921 and taught in that institution until it was Paintsville since that time. A very unusual friendship and partnership existed between Miss Hopkins and Mrs. Hyde for 35 years, and together in that time they have touched the lives of literally thousands of young people and have assisted many financially unable to secure an education. Miss Hopkins was a woman of unusual and outstanding characteristics. A lifelong member of the Methodist Church , in which she was an outstanding and untiring worker, she was efficient in every line of church work and could even fill the pulpit acceptably in the absence of her pastors. She was often called the "assistant pastor." She had a mother heart in her love for her friends and all young people and children, but in standing for the right and fighting wrong she had the courage and firmness of the strongest man. A good woman and a useful citizen had gone and Paintsville will miss her, but she will go on living in the lives of those she has so wonderfully influenced. Mrs. Hyde has received the following card from Prof. H. F. Copeland, of Syracuse, N. Y., a former teacher in John C. C. Mayo College. :Dear Mrs. Hyde; In a recent Herald I saw a word about the serious illness of Miss Hopkins. this word of sympathy to  you--greatly concerned as you must be. "A thought that came to me this afternoon worth passing on; As I walked in brilliant sunshine along a country road, great drifts of dazzling white snow on either side, I thought of blue violets slumbering beneath drifts--violets that in a few short weeks I'll pick again. Whittier's words came to me: Life is ever lord of death, and love can never lose its own. Storms as we have lately had, may rage and snow pile high--but those fragile violets will yet emerge, life triumphant over wintry death. "Death could not hold Him!" someone said of Christ. Nor can it hold us. It mey lay low these fragile tents of clay, but the life within  us. It may lay low these fragile tents of clay, but the life within will rise again triumphant! "Born like Him, like Him we rise, over the cross, the grave, the skies." Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-22-1940

HOWARD, Joe
1940
JOE HOWARD IS VICTIM OF HEART ATTACK
Ex-Service Man Dies At Lowmansville February 23
Joe Howard, age 62, died at his home near Lowmansville on February 23. He had been in ill health for more than a year a sufferer from heart trouble. He was married to Phoebe Hall who died in 1911. They had six children, three girls and three boys, all of whom survive. They are Jarvey Howard, Columbia, Tennessee; Steve Howard, Jackson, Ohio; Dalpha Howard, Paintsville; Mrs. Dock Reed, Portsmouth, Ohio; Mrs. Jeff Reed, Paintsville, and Mrs. G. B. VanHoose, Manila. He also leaves three brothers and one sister, Steve Howard, Win; Jim Howard, Wheelersburg; Wiley Howard, Portsmouth, Ohio, and Mary Lemaster, Morgan County, Ky. He was an ex-service man, enlisting in the regular army in 1912. He was stationed in Mexico in 1916 where he recieved an honorable discharge. Mr. Howard was well known in Paintsville where he resided for some time. Funeral services were held on Sunday, Feburary 25, at the home of his brother, Jim Howard, at Wheelersburg, Ky., and burial was in the family near his wife's side. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of funeral arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-07-1940

LEEK, Emma (Spradlin)
1940
PROMINENT EAST POINT WOMAN DIES
Mrs. Emma Leek, 78, Passes At Home Of Son February 22 East Point, KY – Mrs. Emma Spradlin Leek, age 78, died at the home of her son here, Shelton Leek, Thursday, February 22, from pneumonia. Mrs. Leek had been in ill health for some time. Recently she fell and sustained a broken hip, later taking pneumonia which ended in death. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. George Stambaugh and Mrs. Jack Daniel, both of this place; two sons, John and Shelton Leek, both of East Point; two sisters, Mrs. C.H. Burke and Mrs. John W. Music, East Point, and three brothers, Len Spradlin, West Van Lear; Sherd Spradlin, Millstone, KY, and Tom Spradling, of Oklahoma, besides a large number of other relatives and friends. Her husband and one daughter preceded her in death several years age. Funeral services were held Friday evening at 2 o’clock at the Church of Christ, Rev. S.C. Honeycutt conducting the services. Mrs. Leek was a member of the Church of Christ for more than fifty years. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEB 29, 1940

SPRADLIN, Ruthnell
1940
Victim of Burns Dies Saturday at Local Hospital
Ruthnell Spradlin, 11 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Spradlin, of Left Barnetts Creek, died Saturday at the Golden Rule Hospital from burns which she received three weeks before, when her clothes caught fire from an open grate. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday, in charge of Rev. Thurman Blair and Rev. Prater Blair. Burial at Denver in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 8, 1940 The death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Spradlin and claimed their daughter Ruth La Nell, about 12 years of age. Her death was caused by burns resulting from her clothing catching fire. She was laid to rest in the family cemetery near the graves of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Sant Spradlin. She leaves to mourn their loss her father two sisters, step mother, stepsister and brothers, besides a host of relatives and friends. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 8, 1940

STAGGS, Charlie
1940
Paintsville Herald
Thursday
March 3, 1940
THEALKA MAN 55, DIES AFTER LONG ILLNESS
CHARLIE STAGGS WAS RESIDENT OF MINING TOWN 26 YEARS
Charlie Staggs, 55 years old, died early Thursday morning, February 29, at his home at Thealka. Mr. Staggs was a good citizen and had been a citizen and had been a resident of the mining town for 26 years. He was born at Willard, Carter County, KY. February 21, 1885. He was married to Ora Murray, of this county, who survives him. He is also survived by two brothers, Allen Staggs, of Estill, KY; Dan Staggs, Wilkinson, W.Va., and one sister, Mrs. Mima Dale, Rushville, Indiana. He is also survived by seven children, Mrs. Onie Gallagher and Clyde Staggs, both of Ashland; Joe, Willard, Irene, Junior and Edmond at home. Funeral services were held from the home Sunday in charge of Rev. Millard Vanhoose, Rev. Calvin, Rev. F. S. Vanhoose and Rev. Scott Craft of the Freewill Baptist Church. Burial was made in the Murphy Cemetery at Thealka in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Funeral Co.

TEASS, John
1872-1940
JOHN TEASS DIES FRIDAY AFTER STROKE
Wealthy Landowner Passes At Age of 67 Years
John W. Teass, well known Johnson county citizen, died at the home of his half-brother, Harry Davis, two miles west of Paintsville, last Friday, February 23. He was 67 years old. Mr. Teass had been in ill health for the past 10 years. his condition, however, was not serious until he suffered a stroke of paralysis on Wednesday. Mr. Teass came from a prominent Johnson County family. He was a son of the late William and Jane Martha (Rule) Teass. He was the owner of considerable real estate. He owned Teass Branch, a farm of several hundred acres which he inherited from his grandfather, the late Wallis Rule. He was never married. Survivng are two half brothers, Harry Davis, of Paintsville, and Walter Davis, of Phoenix, Arizona; one half sister, Mrs. W. l. Gambill, Ashland, and four nieces, Mrs. John E. Burns, Miss Martha Alice Buckingham, and Mrs. John W. Burns, all of Ashland, and Mrs. F. E. Browning, of Frankfort. His only full sister, Mrs. John E. Buckingham, died at Frankfort two years ago. Funeral services were held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Davis at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon. Rev. H. E. Trent, pastor of the M. E. Church, conducted the services. He was assisted by Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church. Burial was made in the Davis cemetery on the Davis farm. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company had charge. A quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. Delmas, J. Earl Walker and Miss Gertrude Patrick, accompanied by Mrs. Robert Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-29-1940 John William Teass 1872-1940 John William Teass was born in Johnson County, Kentucky, March 29, 1872.  He was the son of William R. and Martha Jane Teass.  His father was a native of West Virginia and member of a prominent family of that state.  His mother, before her marriage to Mr. Teass was Martha Jane Sule, a member of a prominent Johnson County family.  During his childhood and most of his mature life, he lived on the Teass farm (formerly known as the Rule farm) near Paintsville, Kentucky.  During his youth he worked on the home farm and attended the public schools of the county from which he obtained a good education. The occupational interest nearest the heart of John Teass was farming.  He was a progressive farmer and stock raiser.  Although he had several opportunities to move to urban centers, he preferred to remain on the land he loved.  The sight of well-cultivated, growing crops was the source of much enjoyment to him.  He took great pride in growing purebred stock and making improvements that added to the appearance and usefulness of his farm.  If farming is a task, it was an enjoyable task to John Teass.  To him it was a livelihood and a way of life.  During the last few years of his life, when physical infirmities confined him to his room, he still attended to the management of his farm and enjoyed going over the minutest details of work to be done. In addition to his farming interests Mr. Teass was a successful business man.  He engaged in the lumber industry and helped to organize and operate the Teass and Davis Lumber Company which worked and marketed much of the timber in Johnson County.  He participated in the development of the coal industry in this section, and was connected with the banking business from its beginning in Johnson County until the time of his death.  In his quiet, unostentatious way he played an important role in the business and industrial development of Johnson County and Eastern Kentucky. Although he participated in large affairs, Mr. Teass was always approachable by all who sought his counsel or aid.  He was kind, and patient with all those (and they were many) who came to him for advice and help.  He made no display of his assistance to others.  In most cases only the beneficiaries knew of it.  But many today remember John Teass gratefully for accommodations rendered. He was quiet unobtrusive man.  He never sought public office, public recognition, or public acclaim.  He preferred the type of quiet rural life which he lived.  And throughout this life he kept the even tenor of his way, pausing here and there to perform numerous, unobserved kindnesses for his fellowmen. Mr. Teass is survived by two brothers, Harry Davis, of Paintsville, and Walter Davis of Phoenix, Arizona, and one sister Mr. W. L. Gambill, of Ashland, Kentucky.  A sister, June Davis, and a brother, Roy Davis preceded him in death several years ago.  His full sister, Nola Teass Buckingham, preceded him in death two years ago. During the last few years of his life he made his home with his brother, Harry Davis, and Mrs. Davis.  During much of this time he was confined to his room.  He bore his confinement and suffering cheerfully and until the end manifest his usual interest in his own affairs and affairs of general interest.  The end came Friday, February 23, 1940. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-14-1940

 WHEELER, Columbus B.
 1940
DEATH CLAIMS PRESTONSBURG ATTORNEY
 C. B. Wheeler, 70, Dies December 31, 1940 Victim of Flu
 C. B. Wheeler, 70, prominent Eastern Kentucky attorney and former circuit judge, died at his home at Prestonsburg, on Dec. 31.  He was stricken with flu on Saturday previous to his death which developed into pneumonia. Funeral services were conducted at Prestonsburg after which the body was taken to Winifred, this county, and laid to rest in the family cemetery on the old homestead farm. The following obituary was read at the funeral which gives a short history of his life: The foundation of American civilization is the home erected and maintained through the blood and tears comingled with the joy and hope of our sturdy, God-fearing independent citizens. This is the ultimate source, and as long as it remains uncorrupted, it is the indestructible hope of our civilization: and our free American instutitions.   Every successful, loyal and faithful home-maker in this broad land of ours is an uncrowned king or queen whose happiness and efficiency should be the chief concern of our government, since it is their contribution to human society that insures her security and perpetuity.  Ever since God said "Let us make Man in our Image," the home has become a sacred institution fostered by the favor, the beneficence and protection of Almighty God; and despite the sinister forces of evil now rampant throughout certain portions of the world, this nucleus of civilization, while it recognizes and respects its responsibility to the Almighty, will be indestructible and invincible and will ultimately prevail. Of such was the humble but God-fearing home of Martin V. and Sarah Justice Wheeler erected and maintained against the green-walled hills of Johnson County, who produced and reared to manhood and womanhood a family of eleven children--eight boys and three girls, the oldest whom was the subject of this sketch, the late Honorable Columbus Borders Wheeler, who was born on November 2, 1870; a few days more than 70 years of age.  His father proceded him in death on March 10, 1923, but his mother still survives and will be ninety-five years of age in May of this year, and is probably the oldest living citizen in Johnson County.  His first wife was Elizabeth Walters, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wince Walters of Johnson County, Kentucky and to this union were born one son, W. H. Wheeler, now of Prestonsburg, Kentucky, and four daughters, (two of whom, Esta and Zella Wheeler are now dead), Mrs. Harvey Bixler, now residing at Frankfort, Kentucky, and Mrs. Sterling Berger of Catlettsburg, Kentucky.  His first wife died at the early age of twenty-seven years.  His second wife and surviving widow is Mrs. Grace Evelyn Martin Wheeler, (daughter of Joel C. and Minnie Martin of Floyd County, Kentucky) to whom he was married on December 11, 1918. Judge C. B. Wheeler (as he was familiarly known) was admitted to the bar in Johnson County more than fifty years ago, ever since which time and uninterruptedly until a short time before his death he practiced his profession and engaged in no other profession or business, for a livelihood during that time.  He was elected as a member of the General Assembly of Kentucky, form the legislative district composed of Johnson and Martin counties, in the year of 1896 and served for a period of two years.  He practiced his profession at the Johnson County bar consistently energetically and honorably until about twenty-five years ago when he moved to Floyd County and located at Prestonsburg, Kentucky, where he practiced his profession with the same fidelity and consistency until a short time before his death, except that during this time he was, by the voters of the 31st Judicial District (composed of Floyd and Knott counties), elevated and elected to the position of Circuit Judge of that district, and served as such with signal credit to himself and his country from 1928 to 1931. The writer's first impression of Judge C. H. Wheeler was at a time when Judge Wheeler had just entered the legal profession at Paintsville, Kentucky, but at the time well-grounded in and equipped by the fundamental principles of his profession, and the writer of these humble obsecuies was studying to enter that profession and they entered into a mutual understanding and arrangement under which the writer gave Judge Wheeler free lessons in Latin and Judge Wheeler gave the writer free lessons in law.  Since that time, his ability as a lawyer was never questioned.  No member of the legal profession ever regarded his profession more seriously nor had any higher regard for the ethics of his profession than Judge C. B. Wheeler. He was no quibbler; but what gave him more concern in his profession were the fundamental and essential principles of the law as applied to human conduct.  He did not believe in allowing the barren technicalities of the law to interfere with or defeat the fundamental rights of humanity as expressed in and guaranteed by the fundamental and statutory laws of our land. There is no man who ever engaged in the practice of law, either for him or against him but still recalls that he had a worthy, able and pugnicious opponent or a loyal, able and consistant co-worker.  His professional life was a litteral dedication to, and personification of the great, fundamental, undelying principles of the body of the law safeguarding and protecting the rights of human conduct.  In each and all of these he conscientiously and consistantly believed, and fought for to the end of his career, and to the honor and perpetuation of his name as a member of the great profession he served for more than one- half a century. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 19, 1941


WITTEN, White
1883-1940
WHITE WITTEN DIES FEB. 11 IN MICHIGAN
Former Johnson Man Succumbs After Operation
White Witten, born at Staffordsville, this county, March 24, 1883, died February 11 following an operation at the St. Joseph Hospital, Michigan. He was the son of Frank Witten and Arminta (Butler) Witten.  At an early age he moved with his parents to Mancelona, Michigan, later going to Flint where he was united in marriage to Miss Bessie Morris.  To this union were born seven children.  His wife and six children survive him. The are Barton, Frank, Bill, John and Robert, all at home, and one daughter, Mrs. Arthur Perry; one brother, Frank Witten, Jr., and three sisters, Mrs. George May, Mesa, Arizona; Mrs. O. B. Shaw and Mrs. May Dalton, of Flint, Mich. He was preceded in death by his father, mother and two brothers, Barton and Robert.  Besides his immediate family he leaves a host of relatives and friends to mourn his passing.  Mr. Witten was a member of the Christian Church, and although had long been a resident of another state his request was that he be brought back to his native hills for his final resting place. The body, accompanied by his family and brother, reached Paintsville Wednesday, February 14, and was taken to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Meade where funeral services were conducted by the Reverend Spurgeon Honeycutt. The Witten family has issued the following card of thanks: "We wish to thank our friends and relatives for the sympathy and beautiful floral offerings extended at the death of our beloved husband and father, White Witten.  Witten Family." Paintsville Herald Thursday February 22, 1940


MARCH - 1940

BLAIR, Joe M.
1940
Joe M. Blair,  76 years old, died Monday, March 11, from the  infimities of age.  His wife preceded him in death several years ago.  He leaves no children. Funeral services were held at the home in charge of Rev. Prater Blair. Burial in the family cemetery on Left Barnetts Creek. Blair, Joe M. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 3-14-1940

CASTLE, Pricie
1940
Former Johnson County Woman Dies At Catlettsburg
Rev. Scott Castle, of this county went to Catlettsburg Monday to take  part in funeral services there for Mrs. Pricie Castle, who died early  Sunday morning. Burial was made in the Catlettsburg cemetery with six of the  deceased's grandsons acting as pallbearers. Mrs. Castle had been ill a week.  Mrs. Castle spent years here before  going to Catlettsburg.  She had been a member of the Freewill Baptist  Church for 25 years. Surviving are one daughter, Mrs. Lawrence Dials, of Catlettsburg, two  sons, Julian Castle, of Auxier, and Lawrence Castle, of Greenup. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 21, 1940

CHEEK, Minnie
1940
Minnie Cheek, 65, prominent woman of the Mine Fork section, died at her home there on Sunday, March 3. She had been ill for several months. Funeral and burial held at Mine Fork on Monday, March 4. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-14-1940

CHILDERS, Jack
1940
WHITE HOUSE CITIZEN DIES AT AGE OF 87
White House
Uncle Jack Childers died at his home here March 20, at the advanced age of 87 years.  He leaves a wife and five children to mourn his passing. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-28-1940

COMBS, Nancy Jane (Preston)
1940
Death Claims Southside Woman, Age 84
Mrs. Nancy J. Combs Succumbs At Home of Her Son Mrs. Nancy Jane [Preston] Combs, died at the home of her son, Leslie Combs, in Southside Addition, Wednesday, March 20, after an illness of two weeks.  She was a victim of pneumonia. Mrs. Combs was a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Castle Preston, and was one of the best Christian women in the county.  She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and had lived a devoted Christian life since early womanhood. She was the widow of Ebb Combs who preceded her in death 29 years ago.  She was the mother of ten children, six of whom survive.  The surviving children are: Calvin combs, Centura, Minn.; William Combs, Monticello, Minn.; Mrs. Leonard Dills and Edgar Combs, Frankfort, Ohio; a Grant Combs, Dazie Minn., and Leslie Combs, Paintsville. Mrs. Combs was 84 years of age and had made her home with her son, Leslie, for the past several years. Besides her children, she is survived by numerous other relatives and friends in the county. Funeral; services were held at the Combs residence in Southside, Friday afternoon. The body  was then taken to Rush Fork for burial in the family cemetery on the old Combs farm there. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of the funeral and burial. Paintsville herald Thursday 3-28-1940

CONLEY, Martha (McCarty)
1940
Death Claims Mrs. Conley of Manila.
Death has visited our community and taken Mrs. Martha Conley, widow of the late Mason Conley.  Mrs. Conley had been in ill health for the past two months. She was married early in life to Mr. Ole McKenzie.  To this union were born five children, William McKenzie, Manila; Thurman McKenzie, Paintsville; Elbert McKenzie, who is in the U. S. Army; Mrs. Ann Cantrill, Asa, and Mrs. Lillie Colvin deceased. After the death of her first husband she was married to Mason Conley.  To this union were born six children, Mrs. Alma Castle, Manila; Lunday Conley, Catlettsburg; Lonnie Conley, Manila; Johnnie, Malta and Alta at home.  Mrs. Conley is also survived by one brother Paris McCarty. Funeral services were conducted by Oscar McCarty and John Daniel.  Burial was made in the McCarty cemetery on McCarty Branch. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-21-1940

DANIEL, David
1940
DAVID DANIEL DIES HERE WEDNESDAY
Aged Citizen Passes At Home Of His Daughter, Age 81
David J. Daniel, prominent member of a large Johnson county family, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. C. C. Preston, on Euclid Avenue, Wednesday, March 13. Mr. Daniel had always been a vigorous, active man, and had been ill only a few weeks. He was 81 years old and a member of the United Baptist Church. He was a brother of the late Dr. G. Daniel, who died in Paintsville a few years ago. He formerly resided at the old Daniel homestead at Kerz, but for the past few years he and his aged wife had made their home with Mrs. Preston. Mr. Daniel was a member of the Old Sugar Grove Church on Hood where funeral services were conducted Friday by Rev. Guy W. Preston and Rev. O. I. Williams, of Paintsville. A large crowd of his old friends and neighbors gathered at the Sugar Grove Church to pay their last respects to a departed friend and neighbor. Burial was made in the Daniel cemetery on the old home farm and was in charge of the Preston Home. Besides his aged wife he is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Zora Preston, and two sons, Eugene Daniel and Ransom Daniel, all of Paintsville. A number of Paintsville people attended the funeral and burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 21, 1940

ESTEP, Sam
1940
Sam Estep, age 64, Paintsville died at the Golden Rule Hospital March 4, following an operation. Funeral services were held at the home of his daughter at Kerz. Burial on the old home place at Kerz. He is survived by his widow and a number of children. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03-14-1940

FRALEY, Rebecca (Ward)
1846-1940
Rebecca Ward Fraley
Born on Wolf Creek, Martin County, Ky., in 1856, age 83 years. She lived a citizen of Martin and Johnson counties during these years. She was well known and loved by all who knew her. She was the oldest member of the Freewill Baptist Church at Phillip Cove, Martin County. She is survived by one brother, Harve Newsome, of Martin County; four children, Billie Newsome, Weeksbury; Mrs. Lindsay Bleins, of West Virginia; Frank Ward, of Williamsport, and Russell Ward, of West Virginia. She is also survived by twenty grandchildren and a number of great- grandchildren. She had lived a devoted Christian life for fifty years. and will be missed by her family and friends. She left testimony that she has gone to rest. The Paintsville Herald Thursday March 21, 1940

FRANKLIN, Frederick
1870-1940
CIVIL WAR VET PASSES AT AGE OF 95 YEARS
Fredrick Franklin Was Native Of Johnson County Catlettsburg, Ky.---Fredrick Franklin, Civil War veteran of Catlettsburg who would have been 95 years of age had he lived until the 6th of next month, died here Tuesday, March 12, at the home of his granddaughter, Mrs. Shirley Meade of Louisa Road, Catlettsburg. Funeral services were conducted from the Cyrus Chapel at Durbin in Boyd Co, Thursday at two o'clock and will be in charge of Rev. Sam Sloan. Burial will be in the Durbin cemetery. Mr. Franklin was born in Johnson county, near Paintsville, Ky., on April 6, 1845, the son of Joseph and Susan Friley Franklin. He has been a resident of Boyd county for almost 83 years, spending the greater part of that time in the rural communities of Durbin and Buchanan. He was married to Leeahr Hylton, daughter of Preston and Fannie Hylton on August 12th, 1870. He and Mrs. Franklin, who survives, celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary last August. Mr. Franklin, a staunch Republican, cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln in the presidential election of 1865. Through-out the seventy-five years he went to the polls to cast his ballot, and he seldom missed an election he had never cast a Democratic vote. His entire life was devoted to farming with the exception of the years he spent in the service of the Union Army during the Civil War. Mr. Franklin enlisted in the Union forces at South Point, O., on September 12, 1862. He became a private in Company A, 39th Kentucky Volunteers, Mounted Infantry, which was organized at South Point on November 1, 1862. He served under Colonel David A. Mims, his company participating in sixteen engagements during the war. Mr. Franklin received his honerable discharge in Louisville, Ky. His only brother died during service in the Union Army. Two of his sons are veterans of the World War. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03-14-1940

GULLETT, Sherman
1866-1940
Former Magoffin County Man Dies At Salt Lick, KY.
Sherman Gullett, formerly of Magoffin County, died at his home at Salt Lick, Bath County, last Friday morning as the result of a cerebral hemorrhage. He was 74 years old and had been a prominent business man and politician of Bath County for the past forty years. He was born at Lakeville on the Licking River in 1866, a son of Lewis and Zelpha Gullett. He moved to Farmers more than forty years ago and engaged in the lumber business. He later moved to Salt Lick and engaged in the mercantile business. At the time of his death he operated two stores in Salt Lick. Mr. Gullett had been chairman of the Republican County Committee for 18 years and had served as postmaster at Salt Lick under each Republican President since locating at Salt Lick. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Salt Lick where funeral services were held Sunday afternoon. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge there. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Mollie Conley Gullett, and two children, including Captain C.L. Gullett. Mr. Gullett leaves many relatives in Johnson and Magoffin counties. He was a cousin of Sherman Gullett of Paintsville. Burial was made at Salt Lick. PAINTSVILLE HERALD  THURSDAY MARCH 21, 1940

JOSEPH, Woodson
1940
PROMINENT OFFUTT MAN SUCCUMBS WOODSON JOSEPH, 74,
DIES SATURDAY AFTERNOON
Woodson Joseph, prominent farmer and landowner, died at his home in Offutt last Saturday afternoon. He was 74 years old, and had been ill for several months. Mr. Joseph was one of the county’s best citizens and had many friends in the county who will regret to learn of his passing. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday afternoon in charge of Rev. Joseph. Burial was made in the family cemetery on the W. R. Richmond farm near Paintsville. He is survived by his widow and one daughter, Mrs. W. R. Richmond. The undertaking Department of the Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of the funeral and Burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 14, 1940

LEMASTER, Sally
1940
MOTHER OF 10 CHILDREN BURIED AT WHITE HOUSE
White House.--Aunt Sally Lemaster, formerly of this county, died at the home of a daughter at Ashland. She was 83 years old and leaves ten children as follows: Ed Lemaster, Fallsburg, Ky.; Charles Lemaster, Potter, Ky.; Jasper Lemaster, Fort Gay, W. Va.; Millard Lemaster, Huntington, W. Va.; Oscar Lemaster, Lucasville, Ohio; Sanford Lemaster, West Virginia; John Lemaster, Wheelwright, Ky.; Sherman Lemaster, White House, and two daughters, Martha Jane and Rita, and a host of grandchildren and great- grandchildren. She was laid to rest at White House. Her husband preceded her in death about ten years ago. She was a faithful member of the United Baptist Church for many years and loved and respected by all who knew her. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 28, 1940

LEWIS, Jerry
1940
Jerry Lewis March 6, 1940
Jerry Lewis, age 57, died March 6, 1940 at his home on Barnetts Creek.  He had been ill for more than a year.  He is survived by a wife and several children. Funeral services held Thursday by rev. Furman Blair and Rev. Prater Blair.  Burial in the family cemetery at Barnetts Creek. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY Mar. 14, 1940

MEEK, Mrs. Clint (Meek)
1940
DEATH CLAIMS BOONS CAMP  WOMAN
Mrs. Clint Meek, 58, Succumbs Early Friday Morning
Mrs. Clint Meek, age 58, died at her home at Boons Camp, this county, early Friday morning, March 8, 1940.  She had been ill for two months. She was the daughter of Aaron Meek, and a member of a large and prominent family. Besides her aged father and her husband, she is survived by the following brothers and sisters: Flem, Ike, Ted, and Willis Meek, all of Boons Camp; John Meek, White House; Davis Meek, Thealka; Mrs. Willie Wells, Boons Camp; Mrs. Bud Spriggs, White House; Mrs. Albert Fitch, Meally, and Henry Meek, White House; Jack Meek, Boons Camp. She is also survived by five children, Shady Meek, Boons Camp; Aaron Meek, Weeksbury; Mrs. Jenny Lee Hall, Meally, and Dixie and Norma Meek, at home. Funeral services were held at the home Saturday at noon, with Reverends Lafe Preston, John W. Butcher, and Winfrey Meek in charge.  Burial was made in the family burying ground at Boons Camp. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 14, 1940
 
O'BRYAN, William Garfield "Billy"
1940
 William Garfield O'Bryan "Billy" 61, died March 18, 1940 at his residence at Staffordsville Ky. He was born January 6, 1879 at Kerz, Ky. to the late John James and Mahala Fitzpatrick O'Bryan. His father died when Billy was nine years old and his mother died when he was 14 years old. Billy and his brother, John, made their home with their sister Ella and her husband, Sylvester Jones, for several years, after the death of their parents. He was a Spanish American War veteran.He served in the US Army from 1901 to 1907. After being discharged from the Army, he worked for many years in the coal mines of Kentucky. Billy married Bertha Fitch. To this union were born two children, a daughter, Hattie Mae and a son, Everett. Bertha died when Hattie and Everett were very young. He later married Mary Esta Woods and to this union 13 children were born. He was preceded in death by his brother, John; a daughter, Neva and a son, Raymond. Survivors include his wife, Esta; six daughters, Mrs. Hattie Slone, Ashland Ky., Mrs. Jewell Young, Van Lear, Ky., Edna, Lois, Betty and Janice O'Bryan all of Staffordsville Ky. Also surviving are seven sons, Everett, Stirrat, WVa., Glen, Walter, who is serving in the US Navy, Estill, Ernest, Bobby and Billy J. O'Bryan all of Staffordsville Ky. Billy lived a full life and a good one. He was loved and respected by all that knew him, and will be missed by this family and all the community. Funeral services were held at home at 10:00 A.M., March 21, 1940. Burial was in the O'Bryan Family Cemetery at Staffordsville Ky.
 
PACK, Roger
1940
Roger Pack, the two and one-half-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. E. L. Pack, died at the Pack home at Williamsport last Thursday afternoon, March 28, from the effects of blood-poisoning. The boy was attacked by a vicious rooster at the Pack home a few days previous to his death. During the attack the lad was spurred in the top of the head.  The wound developed into blood- poisoning which ended in death. The tragic death of the son was a severe blow to Mr. and Mrs. Pack who have the sympathy of a large number of Johnson County people. Besides his parents, the boy is survived by a number of brothers and sisters. Funeral services were held at Friendship United Baptist Church at the mouth of Two Mile in charge of Reverends Guy W. Preston and L.T. Preston.  Burial was made in the Pack cemetery at Williamsport in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 4, 1940

RICE, Mrs. John (Blanton)
1940
Mrs. John Rice, a young mother of Barnetts Creek, died at her home there Monday night after a prolonged illness.  She was 29 years old. She was born at Oil Springs and was a daughter of Arch Blanton.  She is survived by her husband and four children, Jonathon Israel, 13, Billie Pauline, 11, Marvin Lee, 7, and Lothana Fay, 3. Funeral services were held Tuesday in charge of Rev. Millard O'Bryan and Rev. Prater Blair. Burial at the Rice cemetery at the mouth of Hurricane. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 14, 1940

SAGRAVES, Proctor
1940
Proctor Sagraves, of Laurel, near Flat Gap, died at the Paintsville Clinic here Monday, March 11, (1940). The cause of death was complications arising from an attack of the flu. Funeral services were held at the home and burial was made in the home cemetery.   He was never married. Sagraves, Proctor. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 3-14-1940

STAMBAUGH, John
1940
PROMINENT CITIZEN DIES SATURDAY
JOHN STAMBAUGH, EX-SHERIFF, PASSES AT AGE 75
John Stambaugh, prominent citizen of Johnson County, died at 6:45 p. m., last Saturday afternoon at his home in King Addition near Paintsville. Mr. Stambaugh was 75 years old. He was born March 31, 1865, and died March 30, 1940. He was born at Stambaugh, this county, a son of the late Jonathan and Jemima Holbrook Stambaugh. He was married to Lydia Preston, daughter of J. H. Preston in 1898, and to them were born three children, Garfield and Ted Stambaugh, both living in King Addition, and Mrs. Rosa Belle Leigh, deceased. Mr. Stambaugh had always been active in Republican politics in this county and was elected sheriff from 1918 through 1921. He had been in ill health for the past several years and had been confined to his bed for five years. Though a shock to the family his death had been expected for some time. Funeral services were held at the old home place on Toms Creek, with Burial in the Stambaugh cemetery at Stambaugh. He is survived by his widow and two sons, Garfield and Ted; one sister, Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Burchett, of Stambaugh; and two brothers, H. M. Stambaugh, of Youngstown, OH, and R. H. Stambaugh, of Mingo. Mr. Stambaugh was a member of one of Johnson County’s largest families. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 4, 1940

TRIMBLE, David Nathaniel
1940
DEATH CLAIMS NAT TRIMBLE SUNDAY
EASTER A SAD DAY IN THE TRIMBLE FAMILY
Easter was a sad day in the Trimble home of Barnetts Creek.  David Nathaniel Trimble, familiarly known as "Nat" died at his home on the left fork of Barnetts Creek, Sunday, March 24, (1940).  He had been in ill health for the past several years but had been in serious condition for a month previous to his death. Mr. Trimble was 79 years old and had spent his entire life on the farm where he died. Mr. Trimble was a member of a prominent Johnson County family.  He was the son of the late William (Dodger) Trimble and was a good citizen, law-abiding and honest. He leaves many relatives and friends in all parts of the county who regret to learn of his passing. Funeral services were held at the Trimble home Tuesday morning and were in charge of Reverends Millard O'Brien , Prater Blair and Thurman Blair.  Burial in the family cemetery on the home farm. The Preston Funeral Home had charge. Nat Trimble was a brother of the late Mark Trimble, wealthy land owner, who died at his home in Hager Hill a few years ago. He is survived by five children, three boys, T.C. Trimble, Paintsville; C. D. Trimble, Betsey Layne; and S. B.  Trimble of Cincinnati; two daughters, Miss Stella Trimble, at home and Mrs. Zelda Picklesimer, of Barnetts Creek.  Also surviving are two brothers, Willie Trimble and Green Trimble, both of Barnetts Creek, and two sisters, Mrs. Willie Picklesimer, of Magoffin County and Mrs. John E. Ratliff, Barnetts Creek. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 3-28-1940

WHITE, Laura (Daniel)
1880-1940
Laura Daniel White--Born at Charley, Lawrence County, Ky.,in 1880, age 60.  She lived a citizen of Lawrence and Floyd counties during these 60 years, was well known and loved by all who knew her. Surviving here are eight brothers, Johnnie Daniel, East Fork, Ky.; Harrison Daniel, Williampsport, Ky.; B. Daniel, Prestonburg, Ky.; Jim Daniel, Lackley, Ky.; Everett Daniel, Garrett, Ky.; Willie Daniel, Garrett, Ky.; Charlie Daniel, Hindman, Ky.; Ershel Daniel, Garrett, Ky; also three sisters, Mrs. Susie Wiley, Lackey, Ky.; Mrs. Pricie Fitch, Lackey, Ky., and Mrs. Ham Spears, Ashland, Ky;; two children, Jay Scarberry, Shelby, Ky., and Vernie White, Garrett, Ky., a number of grandchildren and a host of friends. She had lived a devoted Christian life for many years. She will be missed by all who knew her. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-21-1940

WITTEN, Frances M.
1940
Francis M. Witten Dies At Russell
Francis Marion Witten, age 75, died last Sunday afternoon at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ernest Pennington, at Russell. The aged man had been in ill health for some time. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Mary Ellen Witten and the following children: Mrs. Sula VanHoose, Paintsville; John H. Witten, Cuzco, Ind.; Mrs. Edna Pennington, Russell; Thomas H. Witten, Flannery, Ky., and Mrs. Zelda Kimsey, of Portsmouth, O. Mr. Witten leaves many relatives in Johnson county. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 4, 1940


APRIL - 1940
   
CAUDILL, J. W.
1940
Floyd County Jurist Succumbs Here Wednesday Night
Judge J. W. Caudill, prominent jurist of Knott and Floyd counties, died Wednesday night at the Paintsville Hospital from a sudden heart attack. Judge Caudill served one term as Circuit Judge of the Knott-Floyd judicial district, and was one of the most prominent men of the Big Sandy Valley.  He was well known in Paintsville where he has served as special judge of the Johnson Circuit Court and has often lectured Sunday school classes.  He had lived a strictly religious life and was loved and respected by all classes of people. Judge Caudill was a native of Knott county, but had made his home at Prestonsburg for several years. Judge Caudill, Oliver Stumbo, former Circuit Court Clerk, and John Allen, also of Prestonsburg were in a car wreck in Morgan county about three weeks ago in which all were injured.  Judge Caudill and Mr. Stumbo were seriously injured and have been in the local hospital since that time.  Mr. Allen's injuries were less severe and he returned to his home after a few days treatment.  Mr. Stumbo remains in the Paintsville with a crushed hip and his recovery is doubtful.  His only son, Oliver Stumbo, Jr., died at the Methodist Hospital Wednesday afternoon, and his father will be unable to attend the funeral because of his serious condition.  It is probable that the body of the son will be brought here in order that the father may view the remains before burial.  The death of the son was a severe blow to the father. The body of Judge Caudill was taken to his home at Prestonsburg Wednesday by Arnold's Funeral Home, of Prestonsburg, and prepared for burial. At the time the Herald went to press funeral arrangements were not completed.  It is thought that the body  of Judge Caudill will be taken to Knott county for burial in the family cemetery. Judge Caudill is survived by his widow and a large family of boys and girls in addition to hundreds of relatives and friends in Knott and Floyd counties. At the time of his death it was believed that Judge Caudill was improving rapidly.  A sudden heart attack, however, proved fatal to the jurist. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 11, 1940

DAVIS, Edna (Spangler)
1940
Mrs. Edna Davis, wife of Charley Davis, recently died at Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Davis was born at Chandlerville, Johnson County, Ky., a son of Joseph Wesley Davis, deceased, and Elizabeth Chandler Davis, who survives, and resides near her son, Arthur Davis, at Cut Bank, Montana where he and his father-in-law, Jasper M. Wheeler, are engaged in the mercantile busines. Charley Davis lived with his parents on a homestead near Cut Bank and later moved to Columbus where he married Edna Spangler. They lived with Mr. Davis' mother at Cut Bank for about three years.  Mr. Davis has been motorman and conductor at Columbus since 1937. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 2, 1940

GAMBILL, Lige
1940
LIGE GAMBILL DIES TUESDAY AT ASHLAND
Former Johnson County Man Dies At Home of His Son News was received here Wednesday of the death of E. H. (Lige) Gambill which occurred Tuesday evening at the home of a son, John Gambill, at Pollard Crossing, near Ashland. Mr. Gambill was 80 years of age and had been ill for some time. Mr. Gambill was a former citizen of Johnson county where he is well known and has many relatives and friends.  He had spent the greater part of his life in this county, a dealer in timber and lumber.  He operated a saw mill here for more than a quarter of a century. Funeral arrangements had not been completed at the time The Herald went to press, but it is understood that funeral and burial will be held at Ashland. Lige Gambill was a highly respected man. He has many friends in this county who will be grieved to learn of his passing. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-25-1940

MINIX, Calloway
1940
Husband of Local Woman Buried Sun.
Calloway Minix Killed by Cousin in Breathitt County
Mrs. Draxie Minix, of Paintsville, returned here this week from Knott County where she accompanied the body of her husband, Calloway Minix, for burial.  He was killed at Jackson, Breathitt County, last Thursday morning, Mrs. Minix reported. Calloway Minix was shot and instantly killed at the home of a relative in Jackson, Mrs. Minix said, by Noah Minix, a second cousin of the unfortunate man. Funeral services were held from the home of his father-in-law, Dallas Casebolt, the Reverends Earl Howard, Alex Coburn and Banier Mann, having charge of the services. Mr. Minix was married to Miss Draxie Casebolt February 5, 1934, and was the father of three children, Calloway, Eugene and Clinton Frederick Minix.  Dallas Rose, a little daughter, preceded him in death two years ago. Mr. Minix is survived by his wife, Mrs. Draxie Minix, and two children, of Paintsville; his mother, Mrs. Georgia Minix, and one brother, Noah Reed Minix, both of Claypool, Ind.; three sisters, Mrs. Mary Tyree, Jenkins, Ky.; Mrs. Martha Conley, Estill, Ky., and Mrs. Jayhazie Conley, of Mousie, Ky. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-25-1940

MOLLETTE, Stella Mae
1940
Typhoid Victim West Van Lear
Stella Mae Mollette, 15 year old daughter of Fred Mollette, died of typhoid fever in the Paintsville Hospital Saturday morning.  The body was brought to the home of her aunt, Mrs. Mae Travis.  Funeral services were held in the Methodist Church, Monday morning, at 10 o’clock.  The body was taken to Offutt for burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-11-1940

PERKY, Samantha Jane
1940
Aged Woman Dies White House
Mrs. Samantha Jane Perky died at this place, April 19. She was united in marriage to Franklin Perky, and to that union were born 6 children, Annie Duty, of White House, Lizzie Montgomery, of Auxier, Buddy Perky, of Boons Camp, and Jeff Perky, of Weeksbury.  Two children preceded her in death several years ago.  Her husband preceded her in death 17 years ago.  She leaves a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren and friends. Rev. May, of Jennies Creek, conducted the funeral. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-25-1940

PLUMMER, Mrs. Haley
1940
HALEY PLUMMER PROMINENT THEALKA WOMAN SUCCUMBS FOLLOWING STROKE
Mrs. Haley Plummer, age about 65, died at her home at Thealka, last Friday, April 19.  She was stricken suddenly with paralysis and never recovered.  She lived only a short time following the stroke. The Plummers have resided in the mining camp of Thealka for many years where they were highly respected.  Mrs. Plummer had many friends who regret to learn of her passing. Mr. Plummer served one term as a member of the Johnson County Fiscal Court and is well known. Besides her husband, Mrs. Plummer is survived by five children, Ray Colvin, Roy Colvin, Troy Conley, Solon Conley, of Thealka and Mrs. Nathan VanHoose, of Glo, Ky.; also five step- children, Mrs. Will Ditty, Paintsville, Mrs. Abe Bellomy, Jenkins; Arthur Plummer, Jenkins and Jim Plummer of Ashland. Funeral services were held at the Thealka church in charge of Rev. Millard VanHoose and Barnes VanHoose.  A large crowd attended the funeral services, which showed the high esteem in which Mrs. Plummer was held by her neighbors and friends. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 25, 1940

PRESTON, Ella (Price)
1940
Local Woman Dies Sunday At Jenkins
Mrs. Ella Preston Was Member of Prominent Family Mrs. Ella Preston, age 77, died last Sunday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A. B. Golden, in Jenkins.  She had been ill for the past several months and her death had been expected. Mrs. Preston was a member of a large and prominent Johnson County family.  She was a daughter of the late C. C. and Sarah (Meek) Price.  She was a niece of the late Captain G. V. Meek, Jessie Meek, William Meek, and Rev. Zephaniah Meek, all deceased, and Mrs. Exer Meek, who still lives in Paintsville and is 90 years of age. Mrs. Preston was the widow of James F. Preston. The body was brought to the Preston Funeral Home where it remained in the chapel until Tuesday morning when it was removed to the United Baptist Church on Second Street where funeral services were conducted at 10 o’clock by Rev. Guy W. Preston, assisted by other ministers of the church. Burial was made in the Preston family cemetery at River. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. A. B. Golden, Jenkins, and two sons, Forest Preston of Offutt, and Garland Preston, Paintsville; one sister, Mrs. Belle Ward, Williamsport, and two brothers, C. C. Price, Paintsville, and John Price, of Thelma. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-11-1940

WALKER, John L.
1863-1940
DEATH CLAIMS PROMINENT COUNTY MAN
Rev. John L. Walker Dies Wednesday At Home At Wittensville Rev. John L. Walker, age 76, prominent citizen and churchman, died at his home at Wittensville at 7:30 o'clock Wednesday morning. He had been in ill health for the past two years but had been seriously ill for the past week and his death had been expected.  He suffered a stroke of paralysis about ten months ago from which he never fully recovered. Rev. Walker had been a member of the Methodist Church for 53 years and had been a minister of the gospel for 33 years. Rev. Walker was a member of an old Johnson County family.  He was a son of Rev. George Russell Walker and Elizabeth Baldwin Walker.  His father was a native of Kentucky and his mother a native of North Carolina. His grandfather came direct to America from England. In 1884 he was married to Jennie Combs, daughter of Calvin and Rose Ann Combs and to this union were born seven children, Mrs. Millard F. VanHoose, Nippa; Herbert M. Walker, deceased, Mrs. C. R. Brown and Mrs. Dennis VanHoose, Paintsville; Mrs. G. L. VanHoose, Millstone, Ky., and Foster Walker, Wittensville. He is survived by 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was the last surviving member of his family.  Two brothers, Rev. Will Walker, and Rev. J. C. Walker, and three sisters, Mrs. Mollie Walker Stapleton, Mrs. Warrick Williams and Mrs.. Henry Dills have preceded him in death. Funeral services will be held at the home at Wittensville Friday afternoon at 2  o'clock.  Rev. Sylvester Ball, of Louisa, will have charge of the services, and will be assisted by Rev. Prentice Spear and Rev. Bosier Wells, of Auxier. Burial will be made in the family cemetery at Wittensville, in charge of the Preston Funeral Home of Paintsville. The passing of Rev.. Walker brings sadness to hundreds of his friends in all parts of Johnson County. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-25-1940 John L. Walker John L. Walker was born in Johnson County, Kentucky, August 25, 1863. He was the son of George R. and Elizabeth (Baldwin) Walker. John spent his entire life in the county in which he was born. His early parentage dates back to the early settlers of this part of Kentucky, his father coming from Virginia and his mother from North Carolina. The early settlers were known for their upright and stern characters which have characterized the mountain people. At the age of twenty-one, or on October 22, 1884, he met and was married to Jennie Combs daughter of another family of early settlers, who came here from the state of Tennessee. To this union were born seven children three boys and four girls, Herbert, who preceded him in death some years ago,; Russell, of Paintsville; Foster, of Wittensville; Mrs. Mayme Brown, of Paintsville, Mrs. Ethel Van Hoose, of Millstone, and Mrs. Anna Lee Van Hoose, Paintsville. This wonderful couple have lived together for fifty-six years, residing in the same community, at the same place for all these years. Their home has been a shining light for God during all these years and no community at anytime has ever been more spiritually affected by the lives of a family than this one. In this home the Bible has been the law book and standard by which all acts of life have been measured. In this home have been taught those great things that make pure and upright citizens. In proof of this teaching their children have taken their stations in life among our very best citizens. These teachings have been so dear to these children that it mattered not how far they reamed, there was a longing in their hearts to return to the old hearth stone and again imbibe this great teaching. As a husband there was none more true than John, and during all these years 56 years, through the trials and tribulations of life, he was  ever mindful of that painstaking and loving care of his precious companion. There is no doubt that she would not be able to proclaim half his greatness. As a father, he was loving and painstaking, at all times instructing and leading and pointing the way for these precious children. In the bitter strife of life he had learned that probably ten times were none to many to inform these children of their duties as children and coming citizens. We feel that these children realize and feel as a surety that in their lives have been laid those strong principles that will, if followed effect a safe landing at the close of life. In 1886 John gave his heart to the Lord and was saved by the grace of God and joined the Ruth Fork Chapel Church. He has ever stood and lived true to its teachings and for all these years has proclaimed its doctrines from the pulpit. He has been a licensed minister of this church for 34 years. He is the last survivor of a family of three boys and three   girls. He came to the end of we believe from your works, life for God. Today as we come to say goodbye to this wonderful brother, citizen, husband, and father. We will say "John tous since the beginning of  his faith and practice, we will meet you shortly, in that city where we never die." Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-16-1940

WEBB, Edgar
1940
Edgar Webb Buried Last Week At Inez
Funeral Services For Suicide Victim Held Wednesday Inez Ky. – Funeral services for Edgar Webb, victim of a bullet wound, was held at the Shelton Funeral Home, Tuesday night, at 8:00 o’clock, in Huntington, W. Va., Dr. Cornelius Bowler, of the Twentieth Street Baptist Church, officiating.  He was brought here Wednesday, of last week to be buried in the family cemetery on his grandfather’s (S. L. Williamson) farm near here.  Rev. Lafe Preston, of Meally, Ky., attended at the burial.  The body was brought here by the Shelton Funeral home. Mr. Webb leaves to mourn his passing, his mother, Mrs. Jennie Webb, of Huntington, his father Nelson Webb, Virginia, two sisters, Miss Ada Webb, at home and Mrs. W. W. Wilson of Huntington; three brothers, Elmer, Scott, and Paul James Webb, of Huntington, his grandfather, and grandmother, Mr. and Mrs. S. L. Williamson, of this place, Grandmother Webb, of Van Lear, Ky., and a host of relatives and friends of both here and Huntington.  Edgar was a well liked boy and left many friends. The following friends and relatives accompanied the body from Huntington, Mrs. Jennie Webb, Nelson Webb, Elmer, Scott, Paul James Webb, Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. Robert McDonnie, Mr. and Mrs. Ottie Sowards, Richard Eugene Smith, Everett, and Eugene Wilson, Davis Halstead, Wardy Swan, Jackie Lewis, Kenneth White, Mrs. Elmer Webb, Misses Arville Miller, Elizabeth Saterfield, Ada Webb, Belle Crum, and Laura Ersel Flutty, Wade Webb, Garland Webb and daughter Linda Conley and two sons and several others from Van Lear, attended the burial. The floral offerings were beautiful, and many.  We of this community extend our greatest sympathy to the bereaved family and loved ones. No one knows why Edgar took the life of Jimmie Boggs, his very best and closest friend, then turned the gun and killed himself.  No motive was given.  He positively was not under the influence of whiskey as was reported previously, as his mother said he left the house not more than half an hour before the tragedy in high spirits after making sandwiches and eating. The coroner returned a verdict of murder and suicide.  Both boys died instantly.  None of the family knew he had a gun. Edgar was 20, and Jimmie was 14 years of age.  They had been the best of friends for many years.  Edgar lived at 624 Fifteenth Street and Jimmie at 619 ½ Fifteenth Street, Huntington, West Va. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-4-11-1940

WILLIAMS, Lula (Colvin)
1885-1940
DEATH TAKES MRS. WILLIAMS
LOCAL WOMAN WIFE OF JOHNSON JAILER SUCCUMBS AFTER A FEW MONTHS ILLNESS
Mrs. Lula Williams died at her home in Paintsville Friday morning, April 19, (1940) after an illness of several months.  She had been seriously ill for the past few weeks.  Mrs. Williams was 55 years of age and was the wife of Charlie Williams, Jailer of Johnson County. Mrs. Williams was a member of a large and prominent family.  She was the daughter of the late W. F. and Katherine Colvin and was born at Colvin Branch (Manila) April 26, 1885. Mrs. Williams was a devout Christian and had been a member of the Fish Trap United Baptist Church for thirty years. The body was taken Sunday to Fish trap Church where funeral services were conducted in the church where she was converted thirty years ago. A large number of relatives and friends of the family attended the services Burial was made in the Colvin family cemetery on Colvin Branch with Preston Funeral Home in charge. Besides her husband she is survived by three sons and one daughter, Cecil and Kenneth Williams of Paintsville, and Buell Williams of Manila, and Mrs. Sylvia Ratliff, of Paintsville.  Her father and mother preceded her in death several years ago. Besides her children she is also survived by the following brothers and sisters: Dennis Colvin, Mt. Sterling, Foster Colvin, Ashland, Bruce Colvin, Tomahawk,Ky., Tollie Colvin, Sitka, Halleck Colvin, Manila, Mrs. Lola Blanton, Volga, and Mrs. Gladys  Rigsby, of Paintsville. A number of Paintsville people attended the funeral and burial Sunday. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 4-25-1940 

MAY - 1940

GILMORE, John
1862-1940
JOHN GILMORE
Well Known Greasy Creek Man Died Near Williamsport Friday
 John Gilmore, wel-known and respected citizen of the Greasy Creek section, died at his home near Williamsport Friday, May 5. He was 78 years old, having been born March 2, 1862. He had twice been married, His first marriage was to Vina Pack in 1893 and who died one year later. His second marriage was to Sally Perry in March, 1896. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. He was converted in 1918 and was baptized by Elders John Butcher and A. J. Arrowood and had lived a consistent Christian life until death. He was a member of Old Friendship United Baptist Church. Besides his widow he is survived by two brothers, James Spriggs and Hiram Spriggs, and one sister Allie Craft and numerous friends and relatives. Funeral sevices were held Sunday at the Three Forks of Greasy United Baptist Church and were in charge of Leonard and Glenn Arrowood and J. W. Butcher. Burial was in the old cemetary on the "Point" on Left Fork of Greasy. THURSDAY PAINTSVILLE HERALD 5/9/1940

HAGER, S. E.
1940
SALYERSVILLE MAN DIES IN PAINTSVILLE
S. E. Hager Passes At Local Hospital Here Saturday.
S. E. Hager, 77, well-known retired business man of Salyersville, Ky., died Saturday morning at 11:05 a.m. in a Paintsville Hospital of complications from injuries he recieved in a fall about a month ago. He suffered a fractured hip and leg when he fell at his residence in the Rice Hotel. He had been in declining health for some time and the injuries aggraveted his condition. A son of the late Me. and Mrs. S. W. Hager, Mr. Hager was born in Salyersville and spent his entire  life there, retiring several years ago from active business pursuits. Funeral services were held at Methodist Church at Salyersville Monday afternoon A number of people from Paintsville attended the rites. The pallbearers were nephews of the deceased. They were, Lawrence and Bruce Hager, Owensboro; Bruce Atkinson, Jenkins; Ernest Atkinson, Huntington; Walter Gardner, a nephew by marriage, West Liberty, and a great nephew, Samuel Metzger, Huntington. Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-23-1940

HAGER, Simeon Edgar
1862-1940
The following obituary was read at the funeral by Harry H. Ramey, of  Salyersville: Simeon Edgar Hager, Son Of William J. And Phoebe Ann Hager, Was Born In Salyersville, Kentucky, November 2, 1862, And Died In A Hospital In Paintsville, Kentucky, May 18, 1940, At The Age Of 77 Years, 6 Months, And 16 Days. His Parents Were Among The Pioneers Who Helped To Carve Kentucky From The Wilderness And Transform Her Into A Beautiful Land Of Peace And Plenty.  This Fine Family Consisted Of Three Boys, Judge Samuel Wilur, Simeon Edgar, Warren And One Girl, Fannie, Who Married D. M. Atkinson. All Are Dead Except Warren, Who Resides In Denver, Colorado And Who Has Been Prevented From Attending This Service By Failing Health.  Besides Warren, The Deceased Is Survived By Two Nieces, Mrs. Walter M. Gardner, Of West Liberty, Kentucy, And Mrs. R. E. Mcneal, Of Cincinnati, Ohio, And Four Nephews, Bruce Hager And Lawrence Hager, Of Owensboro, Kentucky.  Time Will Not Permit Any Extended Discussion Of The History Of The Hager Family, But Suffice It To Say They Assisted In Sounding And Building Of Kentucky.  They Were Interesting Civilization In The Mountains And In Schools And Churches, The Two Institutions That Constitute The Bulwark Behind Which We Are Today Entrenched Against The Horrors That Reign Supreme In Other Lands. To The People Who Knew Him Best, He Was Known As Ed.  He Was A Man Of But Few Words Yet He Was A Friendly Soul And His Silence Was Radiant With The Sunshine, That Is Cast Forth By A Kindly, Understanding Heart. He Did Not Talk, But He Acted.  His Life Was A Sermon On Humility Of The Spirit, Devotion To His Church, Loyalty To His Friends And Love For His Neighbors. There Is No Record, But Perhaps As Long As Fifty Years Ago, Ed Hager Was Led To An Altar Of Prayer By His Saviour's Love, And There He Made The Acquaintance Of The Christ, That One Who Has Led Him Through The Suffering Of Affliction, To The Reward Of The Faithful.  His Life Was An Open Book, Lived Quietly And Uprightly, An Influence For Good In The Community.  Sunday Found Him At His Place In The Church, A Silent Listener To The Preaching Of The Word, Often Moved To Tears Of Joy, But Without Vocal Utterance.  Of Him It Must Not Be Said That He Came And Went, That He Was Born And Later Died, But That He Truly Lived As Well And That He Did Not Live In Vain Nor For Himself.  His Life Was An Inspiration And His Presence A Benediction. He Was A Charter Member Of The Local Lodge Of Independent Order Of Odd Fellows, And Next To His Church And His Family, He Loved His Lodge, Not Because Of The Ritulism Of The Order But Because Of The Things It Stood For, And Through That Medium He Endeavored To Espouse The Priciples Of Benevolence And Charity.  Although The Membership Has Been Reduced To A Bare Few, He Continued In Good Standing To The Hour Of His Death. Not Many Close Relatives Remain To Mourn His Passing, But He Does Not Go To The Tomb Unwept. Today The Community That Gave Him Birth And Habitation Deeply And Profoundly Mourn His Passing. His Place Will Be Difficult If Not Impossible To Fill.  Sadness Rankles In The Heart Of Those Who Were Intimately Associated With Him In The Church Throughout The Years.  He Is The Last Of The Old Guard In The Methodist Church, To Which He Contributed Generously Of His Means And Unstintingly Of His Time.  He Cannot Be Replaced.  He Has No Successor.  His Place Is Vacant Forever. He Lingered With Us Long, He Suffered Much, And Now He Has Entered Into The Joys Of Eternal Bliss, Rejoined With Those He Loved, In That Land Of The More Abundant Life, Where There Is No Sickness Nor Sad Farewells. Of him it can be truly spoken  "Lo, the gate swings wide at the knocking,  Across endless reaches he sees,  Lost friends with laughter com flocking,  To bring a glad welcome to him. Farewell, the maze has been dreaded,  This is the end of strife. Say not that death should be dreaded,  For Ed, it is the beginning of life." Paintsville Herald Thursday May 23, 1940

MURRAY, Samuel R.
1940
Samuel R. Murray, age 83, died at his home at Lowmansville Friday morning, May 17, 1940, form the infirmities due to advanced age.  He was one of the oldest citizens of eastern half of Johnson county and had been a member of the United Baptist Church for 65 years. He was twice married.  His marriage was to Jennie Spencer, Charley, Lawrence County.  His second marriage was to Mary Stambaugh, who survives. He is also survived by the following children:  Mrs. Rebecca Pack, Lowmansville; Mrs. Fannie Williams, Catlettsburg, and Mrs. Vina Borders, Lowmansville.  A number of other children have preceded him in death. Funeral services were held at the home Saturday morning, with Rev. Guy W. Preston and Rev. Leonard Walters, officiating. Burial was made in the family burying grounds near the home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY May.23, 1940

PICKLESIMER, Mrs. R. H.
1940
MRS. R. H. PICKLESIMER
Mrs. R. H. Picklesimer, prominent woman of the Volga section of the county, dropped dead at her home there last Friday from a sudden heart attack.  She was a member of the Methodist Church at Cannon Chapel, at Volga.  She is survived by her husband, a prominent merchant of Volga, and one son and one daughter, besides numerous relatives in Johnson County. Funeral services were conducted at the Church of Christ near the Picklesimer home.  A large number of people attended the funeral and burial. Burial was made on the Picklesimer farm at Volga.  Paintsville Herald  Thursday 5/23/1940

PRICE, George W.
1940
George W. Price, age 70 years died at his home at Thelma, Friday, May 17,(1940).  He died suddenly from a heart attack. He was well known in the eastern section of the county. He was one of the county's best citizens and had been a member of the United Baptist Church for the past forty years. Funeral services were held at the Price home at Thelma Sunday morning at 10 o'clock, Rev. L. F. Preston, Rev. Music, and Rev. Leonard Walters, of the United Baptist faith, conducting the services. More than 500 people are reported to have attended the funeral and burial of the aged man. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Hester (Auxier) Price, and five children as follows: James, Eugene and Garner Price and Mrs. Noah Johnson, all of Thelma and Mrs. Georgia Ferguson, of Wheelwright. Burial was in the home cemetery in Thelma. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 5-23-1940

RICHMOND, Mary Rowena (Cooley)
1850-1940
DEATH CALLS MRS. RICHMOND, AGED PRESTONSBURG WOMAN
Prestonsburg, Ky.-- Mary Rowena, Richmond, 89, prominent Floyd County woman died Tuesday at 1:30 a.m., at her home here. Mrs. Richmond was born October 23, 1850, the daughter of David Cooley and Elisa Cooley, Floyd County settlers.  She married Isaac Richmond, November 23, 1870. Surviving are her daughter, Lida Cottrell, Prestonsburg, three grandchildren, Mrs. Joe Hobson, Prestonsburg, Mrs. J.O. Webb, Garrett, and Mrs. Thomas Hereford, Prestonsburg, and six great grandchildren, J.O. Webb, Jr., Garrett, William David Webb, Garrett, Freddie Cottrell, Prestonsburg, David Richmond Hereford, Prestonsburg, Lyda Margaret Cottrell, and William Wilson Cottrell, both of Catlettsburg. Mrs. Richmond was the grand-mother of Dr. T.J. Cottrell who until he died April 1, 1938, was owner and operator of the Richmond-Cottrell Clinic at Catlettsburg. Funeral services were conducted Wednesday at 2 p.m., at the Prestonsburg Methodist Church. Burial was made in the family cemetery. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MAY 30, 1940

STAPLETON, Julia (Hale)
1940
Mrs. Julia Stapleton was born December 5, 1873, died May 24, 1940, age seventy-six years, five months and thirteen days. She was married to Sam Stapleton on December 15, 1890. To this union were born fifteen children, five of whom have crossed the borders of death before her. There are three son and seven daughters left to mourn her departure. They are Charles Stapleton, Paintsville; Earl Stapleton, Lucasville,O.; and Fred Stapleton of Chicago,Ill.; Maud Robinson, Wheelwright,Ky.; Dollie Hager, East Point,; Grace Whitaker, Wheelwright,Ky.; Lora Wells, Auxier, Ky.; Lillian Burchett, Auxier,Ky.; Manda Marie Hall, Detroit, Mich.; and Eulah Stapleton, Auxier, Ky. There are also five sisters who survive her. They are Mrs. Bell Stapleton, Mrs. Hester Vest, Mrs. Barbara Williams, Mrs. Mollie Pence, and Mrs. Mandia Robinson. Twenty-two grand children, five great grand children and a host of friends and relatives, mourn her passing. Mrs. Stapleton in early girlhood gave her heart to the Lord and united with the East Point Methodist Church. She lived a consistent Christian life for her Lord. She ever lived by the teachings and standards of the Bible which helped to mold and characterize her life for God. She was ever mindful of the teaching and training of her children to love and respect her Christ which she endeavored to serve so faithfully. She felt keenly the passing of her dear companion whom preceded her in death six or seven years ago. But her faith in God was not dimmed, and she was able to say with the Apostle, "O Death where is thy sting, O grave where is thy victory." She left a bright and beautiful testimony to those left behind her. Her heart was set on things eternal, and she was determined to look on the other side of glory, and as we come this afternoon to say goodbye to her we say, " Mother, it won't be long till we shall meet again where parting comes no more. I had a darling Mother, But she's gone on before, And I know she's waiting for me, Where parting is no more. She left us all in sadness, She was so very dear, Her steps are stilled forever, And her voice we cannot hear. She leaves the sweetest memories, For those who loved her best, And I know she's waiting for us, In a land of joy and rest. How we loved our darling mother, But out Saviour loved her more, And now she's waiting for us, On that bright and peaceful shore. So adieu, darling mother. Paintsville Herald Thursday June 6, 1940

 EAST POINT WOMAN DIES THURSDAY
Mrs. Sam Stapleton Succumbs After Operation
Mrs. Sam Stapleton died at the Paintsville Hospital here last Thursday morning at 11 o'clock after an illness of a few days. Mrs. Stapleton had made her home here with her children at Auxier and at Wheelwright,Ky., for the past few months, and seemed to be in very good health. She underwent an operation Thursday morning and expired shortly afterwards. Mrs. Stapleton was the daughter of John and Mary Hale. Mr. Hale came to this section from Ohio and Mrs. Hale was a native of this part of Kentucky. Mrs. Stapleton's husband who preceeded her in death seven years ago, was the son of Uncle Ned Stapleton of Volga, who still lives at the ripe old age of 96. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of the body. Funeral services were conducted at the East Point Methodist Church, and were in charge of the pastor, Rev. Prentis Speer, assisted by the Rev. Bozier Wells and the Rev. Willie Horne, both of Auxier. Over five hundred of Mrs. Stapleton's relatives and friends gathered at the church to pay their last respects to a good woman. Paintsville Herald Thursday June 6, 1940

VANHOOSE, Proctor
1940
COUNTY MAN KILLED AT LEXINGTON
Proctor Van Hoose, 36 Struck By Inmate of State Institution Ashland, Ky.
Proctor Van Hoose, 36, of Johnson County, Ky., an inmate at the Eastern State hospital, at Lexington, was injured fatally Monday, when another inmate, swinging a leg of a bath tub in a pillow case, bludgeoned him, and injured two others. Miss Margaret Woll, state welfare commissioner, said last night. Van Hoose is a brother of Okel Van Hoose, 4748 Boyd Street, and Mrs. Sam Stumbe, both of Ashland. Miss Woll said Van Hoose died Tuesday of head injuries and that Ashbury Smith, 29, Breathitt county, and Dorcey Perkins, 31, of Perry county, were in a serious condition. The attack was made in the institution's infirmary by James Teegarden, 26, of Bracken county, she said. The body of Van Hoose arrived in Ashland at 5 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday morning was taken to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lon Van Hoose, of Lowmansville, Kentucky. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. at his parents home. Burial will be in the family cemetery. Surviving are the parents, three brothers Okel Van Hoose, Ashland and Ezra and Carmel Van Hoose, both at home, and three sisters Mrs. Sam Stumbe, Ashland, Mrs. Edgar Colegrove, Lafollette, Tenn., and Miss Earlene Van Hoose, at home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-23-1940

JUNE - 1940

AKERS, Johnny
1942
Killed By Train, Belief Second Member of Family To Be Found Dead Within 3 Years
The dead body of Johnny Akers, about 35, Offutt, was found on the C. & O. Railroad tracks at the White House last Monday morning. The body was discovered about 5 o'clock by a number of WPA workers who were en route to their jobs. According to the WPA workers the body was lying between the two rails and the clothing was practically stripped from the body. Killed By Train, Belief The man's shoes were lying beside the track. Foul play was suspected at first but an examination of the body by officers indicates that Akers had been run over by a passing train. It is believed that he fell under a freight train and his clothing torn off by being rolled along the ties as the train passed over the body. Aker's arm was severed from the body, his head crushed and otherwise mangled by the train. The body was lifted from the center of the track and placed beside the railway line and officers called from Paintsville, Coroner Dr. O. E. Johnson, County Attorney Don C. VanHoose and Sheriff Julius Daniel went to the scene of the tragedy but found that the body had been picked up by a Prestonsburg ambulance and taken there to be prepared for burial. His mother and two sisters reside at Prestonsburg. Ill luck seems to dog the footsteps of the Akers family. Two members of the family have died violent deaths within the past three years. About three years ago the dead body of his father, Logan Akers, was found dead at Offutt where he had been placed upon a pile of driftwood in the edge of the Big Sandy River. He had been killed and placed there, it was reported at the time. Johnny Akers was a brother of Clyde Akers who was convicted last week for the killing of Raymond Castle in the Hill Beer parlor in Bridgford about two weeks ago. Akers had spent Sunday in Prestonsburg and returned to White House on the evening passenger train. He was seen about 1 a.m., Monday. The accident occurred between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday July 4, 1940

BUTCHER, Mary (Sammons)
1940
WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN DIES HERE JUNE 5
Mrs. Mary Butcher Passes At Paintsville Clinic Wednesday
Mrs. Mary Butcher, 42 years old, died at the Paintsville Clinic Wednesday, June 5, 1940, after an illness of more than six months.  She was the wife of Atlee Butcher, of Boons Camp, and the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brown Sammons of that place. Besides her husband and parents she is survived by two children by a former marriage, Bernard Branham, Van Lear, and Mrs. Sarah Trego, of Waverly, and several brothers and sisters. Funeral services were held at the home of Dallas Music, at Boons Camp, in charge of Rev. John W. Butcher and Rev. Guy W. Preston.  Burial was in the family cemetery at Boons Camp. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of funeral arrangements.  Paintsville Herald Thursday 06-13-1940

CASTLE, Ralph
1940
RALPH CASTLE DIES FROM GUN WOUND
Clyde Akers Accused of Shooting At Hill's Beer Parlor
Ralph Castle, age about 26, is dead and Clyde Akers is in jail charged with firing the shot which resulted in Castle's death. The shooting took place at a beer parlor known as the "Rising Sun", operated by Pleas Hill, in Bridgford Addition, a suburb of Paintsville. The shooting took place near midnight, officers said, Wednesday, and is presumed to have been the result of a drinking bout. Only one shot was fired, it is said, which passed through Castle's thigh severing the large artery of the thigh. Dies At Hospital Thursday Morning Castle was removed to the Paintsville Hospital sometime after the shooting but the man had lost so much blood before the flow could be staunched that he died about 8 o'clock Thursday morning. In the absence of an examinating trial the full details of the occurance can not be accurately given as all the fact are not fully known. Several eye witnesses, both men and women, are said to have been present, it is said, and witnessed the trouble which led to the fatal shooting.  Castle received only one gun wound, it is reported, although he is said to have an ugly wound in the head. Both men were residents of Paintsville where they are well known. Akers is married and is the father of four children and resides in Bridgford.  He is the son of the late Logan Akers who was found murdered on the river bank at Offutt about five years ago. Akers made no effort to escape after the shooting and was arrested Thursday morning at his home in Bridgford by Sheriff Julius Daniel and deputies Raymond Melvin and Ray Bayes.  He submitted to arrest peaceably and was placed in jail.  He was immediately indicted for wilfull murder by the grand jury which is in session this week (continued back page of this sec.) and his trial set for this (Thursday) afternoon.  This is in line with Circuit Judge Bailey's policy to try murder cases as they occur, thus keeping the docket clear of murder cases at all times. A plea of self-defense will be made by Akers it is thought, as Akers claims that Castle was making an attempt upon his life when the fatal shot was fired. This is the first murder which has taken place in this county for several months.  Up to Wednesday night not a single murder case was on the docket of either the Johnson Circuit Court or the Martin Circuit Court, comprising the twenty-four judiciary district. Paintsville Herald Thursday June 13, 1940

DANIEL, Minnie (Williams)
1940
MINNIE DANIEL
Williamport Woman Claimed By Death
Mrs. Minnie Daniel, age 46, died at her home at Williamsport, Friday, June 6 1940.  Mrs. Daniel was the wife of Harrison Daniel and had been ill for some time.  She was a devout Christian and was a member of the Phillip Cove Freewill Baptist Church in Martin County. Besides her husband, she is survived by six children, four sons and two daughters, father and mother and several brothers and sisters. Funeral services were held at the home of her father, James Williams, Sunday afternoon and were in charge of Rev. Ed Howard, of Garrett, Ky., and Rev. F. S. VanHoose, of Paintsville. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Williamsport. Paintsville Herald Thursday June 13, 1940
  
 Mrs. Minnie Daniel, age 46 years old died June 7, 1940.  She leaves to mourn her passing a husband and 6 children, 4 boys and 2 girls.  A more loving wife and mother never lived.  She was a devoted Christian, belonging to the Freewill Baptist Church, Martin County.  She was loved by everyone far and near.  She had a kind word and smile for everybody.  She is greatly missed by her many friends.  The funeral services were conducted by M. E. Province also preaching by Rev. F. S. VanHoose, Fred Rowland, John W. Butcher, Ed Howard.  She leaves behind her a beautiful testimony.  Just before she passed away she told her husband that she was going to a better home than this, that the glorious lights of heaven were shining brightly in her soul. THE FAMILY  Paintsville Herald Thursday June 27, 1940

DANIEL, Mrs. Scott
1940
LONG ILLNESS FATAL TO MRS. DANIEL
Mrs. Scott Daniel Dies At Her Home At Lowmansville
Mrs. Scott Daniel, well known woman of Lowmansville, died at her home there Sunday, June 16. She had been ill for the past several months suffering from dropsy. Mrs. Daniel was a devoted Christian mother and had been a member of the Locust Grove United Baptist Church for many years.  She was well known and has many relatives in Johnson and Lawrence counties. She is survived by her husband, two sons and four daughters. Funeral services were conducted at the home Monday and were in charge of VanHoose brother, neighbors of the deceased. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Sycamore. Paintsville Herald Thursday June 20, 1940

PICKLESIMER, M. M.
1940
PROMINENT  LOCAL CITIZEN  DIES MONDAY
M. M. Picklesimer, Retired Railroad Man, Buried Wednesday  M. M. Picklesimer, prominent and well known citizen of Paintsville, died at his home on Preston street, Monday afternoon at 5 o'clock.  He had been ill for two weeks previous to his death. Mr. Picklesimer was one of Paintsville's best and most valued citizens.  He had spent most of his live in Paintsville where he held a position with the C. & O. Railway, working out of the local yards.   He was 69 years of age and was retired from the railway service three years ago with a pension. Although he had been ill for two weeks he had been in poor health for several months. Mr. Picklesimer was a member of the First Baptist Church of Paintsville. Funeral services were conducted from the home Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock. Rev. T. B. Ashely, Pikeville, and Rev. C. S. Smith, pastor of the First Baptist Church were in charge of the services.  Burial was made at Oil Springs. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of the funeral arrangements. He is survived by his widow, one son, Virgil D. Picklesimer, superintendent of the Southeast Coal Company, Seco, Ky.; two daughters, Mrs. Walter Wheeler, Ashland, Ky., and Mrs. Ora Castle, Madison, W. Va.  He is also survived by one brother, Willie Picklesimer, Oil Springs and numerous other relatives in Johnson County. Mr. Picklesimer was a native of Johnson County where he had spent his entire life. Paintsville Herald  Thursday 6/20/1940

PICKLESIMER, Manford M.
1871-1940
MANFORD M. PICKLESIMER
Prominent Local Citizen Dies Monday.
M. M. Picklesimer,  Retired Railroad Man,  Buried Wednesday M. M. Picklesimer, prominent and well known citizen of Paintsville, died at his home on Preston Street, Monday afternoon at 5 o’clock. He had been ill for two weeks previous to his death. Mr. Picklesimer was one of Paintsville’s best and most valued citizens. He has spent of his life in Paintsville where he held a position with the C & O Railway, working out of the local yards. He was 69 years of age and was retired from the railway service three years ago with a pension. Although he had been ill for two weeks he had been in poor health for several months. Mr. Picklesimer was a member of the First Baptist Church of Paintsville. Funeral services were conducted from the home Wednesday morning at 10 o’clock. Rev. T. B. Ashley, Pikeville, the First Baptist Church were and the Rev. C. S. Smith, pastor of the in charge of the services.  Burial was made at Oil Springs. The undertaking department of Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of the funeral arrangements. He is survived by his widow, one son, Virgil D. Picklesimer, superintendent of the South-East Coal Company, Seco, Ky.; two daughters, Mrs. Walter Wheeler, Ashland, Ky., and Mrs. Ora Castle, Madison, W. Va. He is also survived by one brother, Willie Picklesimer, Oil Springs and numerous other relatives in Johnson County. Mr. Picklesimer was a native of Johnson County where he had spent his entire life.” Thursday JUNE 20, 1940 The Paintsville Herald

 Obituary
 Manford Marion Picklesimer was born at Barnetts Creek, Ky., January 29, 1871. He was one of six children born to William and Martha Picklesimer. He spent his boyhood in and about Johnson County, was converted at the age of seventeen years, baptized and became a member of the Missionary Baptist Church at Barnetts Creek, Kentucky, established by the Rev. Louis Caudill, now of Salyersville. Of his father’s family only one brother survives him, Willie Picklesimer, of Oil Springs, Ky. He was first united in marriage to Rhoda May Picklesimer and to this union was born five children, two of whom survive, Mrs. Lloyd Castle of Clothier, West Virginia, and Virgil Picklesimer, of Seco, Kentucky. Following the loss of his first wife, he was united in marriage to Julia May Preston of Barnetts Creek, Kentucky, and to this union were born three children, one of whom survive, Mrs. Walter A. Wheeler, Ashland, Ky. There are left to mourn their loss his loving and devoted wife, three children, thirteen grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and one brother, their families and many friends. MEMORY We know that he is ceased, and gone To dwell with Him in the great beyond. He sailed life’s ocean proud and fine To attain the age of sixty-nine. He mastered the rough with a smiling face, Toil to him was no disgrace. Then at last life’s tempest tossed A wave so high this earth he lost- To find a place where never a sail Is tossed or turned by some great gale. We who are left can not but cheer, And hope that when our time is near We’ll sail with him beyond the blue This course so smooth, and oh so true! So until we meet this one so dear; It’s sail on, dad, the coast is clear. A GRANDSON Thursday June 27, 1940 The Paintsville Herald

PORTER, John W.
1940
DEATH CLAIMS AGED JONS CREEK MAN
John W. Porter, Prominent Dewey Citizen, Dies At 90
John W. Porter, age 90, of Dewey, Floyd County, died at his home there Monday, June 18. Despite his advanced age he is reported to have been a vivtim of tuberculosis. Mr. Porter was a prominent citizen and land owner of the Johns Creek section and had many relatives and friends in Johnson and Floyd counties. Mr. Porter was twice married and is survived by his second wife, seven sons and numerous relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted at the home Wednesday. Burial was made in the Porter cemetery at Dewey. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-20-1940

STAPLETON, Charles L.(Lafe)
1940
FORMER LOCAL CITIZEN DIES IN BOYD
Catlettsburg.
Charles L. (Lafe) Stapleton, 52, died at 3:30 a.m. here Tuesday at his home on Greenup Avenue, Catlettsburg, after an illness of the past three years. He had been a resident of Catlettsburg  for 25 years, coming from Johnson County, Kentucky. Surviving are his widow Gladys Griffith Stapleton, five sons Stacey, Beecher and Charles Stapleton, Catlettsburg, Otto Stapleton, Fort Knox,Ky., and Wilbur of Red Bush Ky., one daughter, Neva Lee Stapleton of Catlettsburg, his father, G. F. Stapleton of Fuget,Ky., five brothers, Clayton of Marion,O.,Parnell of the Panama Canal Zone, Lunda of Oil Springs,Ky., June of Portland,Ore., and Douglas of Fuget, Ky., and two sisters, Mrs. Charles McKenzie of Paintsville, Ky., and Mrs. Luther Conley, of Oil Springs. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 30, 1940

WILLIAMS, James E.
1940
DEATH CLAIMS WEST PAINTSVILLE CHILD
James E., infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Lester Williams, died at the  home of his parents in West Paintsville Friday, June 28.  He was a  year and a half old.  Besides his parents he is survived by one  brother, Robert Allen, and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Will Haney, and a large number of other relatives. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 4, 1940

JULY - 1940

AUXIER, Thomas
1942
THOS. AUXIER KILLED SUNDAY AT EAST POINT
Victim Was a Member of Prominent Family of Big Sandy Valley
Thomas S. Auxier was run over and instantly killed at 7 o'clock Sunday morning.  The tragedy took place at East Point and was witnessed by a number of people. Mr. Auxier was 22 years of age and was returning to his home in Blockhouse Bottom on the opposite side of the river from East Point. Mr. Auxier was the fourth victim to lose his life by a railroad accident within four weeks between East Point and White House, a distance of approximately 10 miles. Was Member of Prominent Family Young Auxier was the son of Mrs. Milt Auxier.  His father died six years ago. He as a member of probably the oldest family in the Big Sandy Valley. His ancestors came into the Big Sandy Valley from Virginia when this section wa a primeval forest inhabited only by wild animals.  Together with a number of other Virginians they settled at what is now East Point and erected a blockhouse as a defense against the Indians and since that time the bottom lands opposite East Point have been known as "Blockhouse Bottom." It was from this stronghold of the white man to which Jennie Wiley fled from the Indians and was ferried across the river on a raft of logs lashed together with grape vines.  As Mrs. Wiley reached the opposite shore and the safety of the blockhouse settlement the old Cherokee Chief who had held her captive for more than a year appeared upon the opposite bank of the river with a party of his braves. Members of the Auxier family were instrumental in returning Mrs. Wiley to her husband and family in Virginia. The Auxier family has been prominent in the social and business life of the Big Sandy region since the establishment of the first settlement at Blockhouse Bottom. Mr. Auxier had many relatives in Johnson County.  He was a brother of Mrs. Dawson Wheeler, wife of Judge John W. Wheeler, of Paintsville.  He was an employee of the supply department at Van Lear.  He was a very popular young man of his community and his untimely death has brought sorrow to a large number of friends and relatives. Eleven railroad cars passed over the man's body. He was said to have been sitting on the railroad track evidently dozing. The engineer said that he could not bring the train to a stop in time to save the man's life, although it is said that the train crew had an unobstructed view of the line for several hundred feet. Funeral services were held from the home Tuesday morning in charge of Rev. Spurgeon Honeycutt, of Auxier, and Rev. Spear, of the M.E. Church, of East Point. Burial was nmade in the old Auxier cemetery on the home farm. He is survived by his aged mother, three brothers, Eugene Auxier, Jenkins, Ky., Sam Auxier and Polk Auxier, at home; three sisters, Mrs. John W. Wheeler, Paintsville; Mrs. Martin Crider, East Point, and Miss Fanny Auxier, at home. Paintville Herald Thursday July 25, 1940

CHRISTIAN, Nick
1940
Colored Man Found Dead at White House
Nick Christian, colored, was found dead in a camp car at White House July 26.  He was said to have been a victim of a heart attack.  He was 43 years of age and a World War Veteran.  He was a native of Elk Hill, Va. The body was prepared for burial by the Preston Funeral Home and shipped to his home in Virginia where funeral services took place. Christian was working as a lineman for the C & O Railway. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-1-1940

DANIEL, Con
1940
CON DANIEL FOUND DEAD AT WEEKSBURY
Prominent Johnson County Man Buried At Sugar Grove Sun.
Con Daniel, age 55 years, was found dead at Weeksbury, on Left Beaver, last Saturday morning. He was mine foreman for a large coal company on Left Beaver.  He was working on the night shift and left the mines at 1 o'clock a.m. Saturday presumably for his boarding house.  The body was found in a yard adjoining the boarding house. It is not definitely known what hour he died or the cause of his death, but physicians who examined the body said that death was caused by a sudden heart attack.  Fellow workers said Mr. Daniel was in good health and in high spirits when he left the mines.  He never reached the boarding house. There were no indications of injury although the front part of the throat was badly swollen. Mr. Daniel was connected with the Consolidation Coal Company in an official capacity for many years.  While located at Van Lear he made the race for sheriff of Johnson County and was defeated by a small margin.  He was born and reared in the Hood Fork section of the county where he has many close relatives. The body was brought in this county and funeral services were held at the Old Sugar Grove Church Sunday afternoon. Burial was made in the Daniel Family Cemetery there. Note: This cemetery is also known as the "Autry Daniels Cemetery". Paintsville Herald Thursday July 18, 1940

DAVIS, Mary (Ward)
1940
ILLNESS FATAL TO THELMA WOMAN
Mrs. Mary Davis, 67, Succumbs After Illness of 4 Months
Mrs. Mary Davis, prominent Christian woman of Thelma, died at her home there Monday, July 29. She was 67 years of age and had been ill four months. She was a daughter of the late David Ward, a noted United Baptist minister of his day. Mrs. Davis was a devout member of the United Baptist Church. Funeral services were held from the home Tuesday in charge of Rev. John W. Butcher. Burial was in the family cemetery at Offutt. The deceased was the wife of Henry Davis. Besides her husband she is survived by one son, Walter by a former marriage. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 1, 1940

FORD, Elizabeth (Davis)
1940
DEATH CLAIMS AGED WOMAN OF AUXIER
Mrs. Elizabeth Ford Succumbs After An Illness of 2 Weeks
Mrs. Elizabeth Ford, age 85, died at her home at Auxier Sunday, July 7. She had been ill for two weeks. She was a prominent Johnson County woman. Although a resident of Floyd County she was born on Davis Branch, near Paintsville, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. James M. Davis. She leaves many relatives and friends in Johnson and Floyd counties. Funeral services were conducted at the home Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. The services were in charge of Rev. Honeycutt, of Auxier. She is survived by three daughters, Miss Louise Ford, Mrs. Hazel Moran and Mrs. Ona Honeycutt, at home, and one son, William Ford, who resides at Auxier. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-11-1940 Obituary Elizabeth Davis Ford Elizabeth Davis Ford was born July 31, 1855, and passed into the Great Beyond July 7, 1940, at the age of 84 years, 11years, 11 months, and 6 days. She was a daughter of the late James M. and Naomi Price Davis, a very prominent family of the Big Sandy Valley. On January 9, 1875 Elizabeth Davis was united in marriage to M. L. Ford and to them were born eleven children. Her husband and seven children preceded her in death. The children who survive are Lou, William R., Mrs. Ona Honeycutt, Mrs. Hazel Moran, all of Auxier, Ky. She left 14 grandchildren and 10 greatgrandchildren. Mrs. Ford had two brothers and nine sisters, five of whom only are living today, namely Mrs. Herma Childers, Mrs. Cynthia Auxier, Mrs. Ella Hail, Paintsville Ky., Mrs. Lorinda Spradlin, West Van Lear, Ky., and Mrs. Minnie Akers, Wheelersburg, Ohio. At a tender age Mrs. Ford accepted Christ as her Savior and joined the United Baptist Church at Concord and lived in that faith to the end. The life of Mrs. Ford stood out as a monument for good. From her daily conversations you could see that fine Christian spirit and from her daily acts you could see and feel that bigness of heart. It was this spirit that won for her a home in Heaven for evermore. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-18-1940

GIBSON, Carolyn
1940
Aged Knott County Woman Dies July 25
Mrs. Carolyn Gibson, age 90 years, died at her home at Mousie, Knott County, July 25. Her death was due to infirmities of age. She had spent the winter with her daughter, Mrs. Theadore Walker in Paintsville, but had returned to her home several weeks ago. Besides her daughter, Mrs. Walker, she is survived by a number of other children. The body was taken to Lackey, Floyd County, by the Preston Home for burial. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 8/1/1940

HICKS, Ben
1940
VAN LEAR MINER KILLED BY EXPLOSION
Ben Hicks Victim Premature Blast Monday Morning
Ben Hicks, age about 45, was instantly killed in the mines of the Consolidation Coal Company at 9:30 Monday morning. He died instantly following a premature explosion of monobel with which he was shooting coal. No one knows just how the accident occurred as he was working alone at the time. The body was badly mangled. Evidentially he had the monobel in his hands as the main force of the blast hit him in the breast. This is the first fatality to occur at the Van Lear mines for more than a year, Leslie Sword, another miner form Van Lear said here Monday. Hicks is survived by a wife and one child. Funeral services were held at Van Lear July 4. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 7-4-1940

LEMASTER, Henry R.
1940
FORMER LOCAL MAN VICTIM OF HEAT WAVE
Henry R. Lemaster Dies In Ohio On Sunday, July 21
Henry R. Lemaster, age 82 years died at his home in Ohio Sunday, July 21.  HIs death was due to heat prostration. Mr. Lemaster formerly lived in Johnson County where he had many friends and relatives.  He moved to Sciotoville about eight years ago. He was twice married.  His first marriage was to Manda Castle who preceded him in death several years ago.  To this union were born 13 children, ten of whom are still living.  He later married Rachel Barker who survives him. He also is survived by one brother, Lafe Lemaster, of Ashland Ky.; six daughters, Mrs. Edgar Daniel, Mrs. Lawrence Daniel and Mrs. Dewey McClure, all of Paintsville; Mrs. W. G. Caudill, Wheelersburg, Ohio; Mrs. Jasper Slone, Davisville, Ky.; Mrs. Robert Conley, W. Va; four sons, Dennis Lemaster, Ashland, Ky.; John R. Lemaster and Pie Lemaster, Kerz, Ky.; Hobert Lemaster, St. Albans, W. Va., and several grand- children and great-grandchildren. Mr. Lemaster was a very prominent man and loved by all who knew him wherever he went. He was very active for his age. His body was brought to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Edgar Daniel, at Paintsville, on Monday by the Irvin Funeral Home of Minford, Ohio, and left in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Funeral services and interment were conducted at the family cemetery at Franks Creek and the services were conducted by Reverends Guy W. Preston, Roscoe Lemaster, O. I. Williams and F. F. Riggsby. Paintsville Herald  Thursday August 1, 1940

MEEK, Jeffrey
1940
3RD FATALITY TO OCCUR IN 3 WEEKS
Victim Said to Have Been Asleep When Hit by Train
For the third consecutive week the mangled form of a man has been found upon the C&O Railway tracks between Paintsville and White House Station.  The latest victim was Jeffey Meek, who was found fatally injured between the passenger depot and the railroad bridge in Greentown. Meek’s plight was discovered when people living in the lower end of Bridgford were attracted to the scene by the man’s cries for help. The other victims of railroad accidents were Johnny Akers and Frank Blevins of the Offutt and White House sections. Meek was found about 5 o’clock Monday morning, July 15, 1940.  He had apparently been run over by a freight train some time after midnight.  Those who found him said it was evident that the man was fatally injured.  Both legs had been severed, his skull fractured and injured internally.  He was taken to the Paintsville Clinic for first-aid treatment, but died four hours later. From the position of the body and other evidence at the scene of the accident, it is believed that the man had fallen asleep on the railroad track.  The three accidents which proved fatal to the three men were unavoidable on the part of the railroad and the train crews, it is reported. Jeffey Meek was a son of the late Nathan Meek of the east side of Big Sandy River and is a member of a large family.  He was a brother of former Circuit Court Clerk Winfrey Meek of Boons Camp and Tom Meek of Paintsville. He is survived by a wife and a number of children. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 18, 1940

PRESTON, Amanda (VanHoose)
1940
Mrs. J. B. Preston, Tutor Key, Passes At Age of 79 Years
Mrs. Amanda (VanHoose) Preston, age 79, died at her home at Tutor Key, this county, Saturday morning July 27.  She had been ill for several weeks. She was the wife of Elder J. B. Preston, long a minister of the United Baptist Church.  Rev. Preston is also seriously ill. Funeral services were conducted at the home Sunday afternoon by Rev. Arthur Greene, of Ashland. Burial was made in the family cemetery on the Preston farm. A large number of neighbors and friends attended the funeral and burial.  Aunt Amanda was well loved by the people of her neighborhood. Mrs. Preston was one of the best women of the county and her passing will be mourned by hundreds of people throughout the county. Besides her aged husband she is survived by three sons and one daughter, Cleft Preston, Seco, Ky., John Bert and Guff Preston of Tutor Key, and Mrs. Elmer Mills of Akron, Ohio.  She is also survived by three sisters, Mrs. Matilda Stapleton and Mrs. Julius Daniel of Paintsville and Mrs. Scott Daniel of Thealka and T. J. VanHoose of Paintsville. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-1-1940

PRESTON, George F.
1940
PAINTSVILLE MAN DIES OF BROKEN NECK
GEORGE F.PRESTON VICTIM OF SWIMMING ACCIDENT IN W. Va.
George F. Preston, 26, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred F. Preston of Paintsville received injuries at Guyandotte, W. Va. Tuesday from which he died in a Huntington Hospital Wednesday. Young Preston was with a carnival, with which he had been connected with for a number of years, in charge of the riding devices.  Preston and a number of other showmen had gone in a favorite swimming hole near the mouth of the Guyandotte River. The men were diving into the water from a diving board about 20 feet high.  Mr. Preston not being familiar with the swimming hole dived into shallow water and his head hit the sand with such force that his neck was broken.  He was rescued from the water after the injury and was rushed to the hospital by the owner of the carnival and his wife.  He died at the hospital about 10:00 Wednesday morning.  Mr. Preston was a very popular member of the show crew. Preston remained conscious almost to the end and told his father just how the accident occured. The body was brought to Paintsville by the ambulance of the Paintsville Furniture Co. Wednesday evening and prepared for burial. The funeral services will be held at the home in East Paintsville.  Burial will be made in the old Brown cemetery in Bridgford. He is survived by his widow and two small children, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred F. Preston, one sister, Mary Jo Preston, and two brothers, Milton F. and Stewart D. Preston, and many relatives and friends in this section. The untimely death of this young father is to be regretted and much sympathy is felt for his family. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 7-25-1940

RICE, Luther
1940
COUNTY MAN IS VICTIM OF AUTO WRECK
Luther Rice, 55, Succumbs After Wreck on Beaver
Luther Rice, of Cumberland, Harlan County, Ky., was killed on Beaver Creek last Saturday night about 8 o'clock. The wreck took place between Martin and Allen on a stiff curve. Mr. Rice was a native of Johnson County and was 55 years old. He was born in this county, a son of the late Green Rice and Mrs. Jane Rice of Paintsville. Mr. Rice, who has been a resident of Cumberland for several years, was on his way to Paintsville to visit a sick grandchild at the Paintsville Clinic when the accident occurred. In the car at the time was a son and a woman whose name we did not get. The car which was driven by Mr. Rice ran out of the highway into the ditch and turned over several times. Mr. Rice's neck was broken in the crash and death was almost instaneous. The woman occupant of the car was also killed and the son suffered a broken arm and will recover. The body of Mr. Rice was brought to the Paintsville Funeral Home where funeral services were conducted at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon in charge of Rev. Smith of the Missionary Baptist Church.  The chapel was filled with relatives and friends of the family.  Appropriate music was furnished by a choir led by D. B. Conley. Burial was made in the family cemetery on Lick Fork near Hager Hill. The deceased is survived by a wife and six children, his mother, Mrs. Jane Rice, three sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Rice Young and Mrs. Hazel Blakewell, all of Paintsville and Mrs. Darwin Long, of Wheelersburg, Ohio. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-1-1940

RICE, Proctor William
1882-1940
PROCTER RICE SUCCUMBS IN WASHINGTON
NATIVE OF JOHNSON COUNTY VICTIM OF MAJOR OPERATION
The following news item was taken from the Wenatchee (Washington) Gazette and concerns the death of a Johnson County citizen who died in a hospital there last week. Proctor William Rice,58, pioneer telegraph operator for the Great Northern Railroad of Quincy, died in a local hospital this morning following an illness of four days following a major operation. He was born December 10, 1882, near Paintsville Ky.  There he grew to manhood and at the age of 16 years enlisted in the Spanish-American War.  He was at Key West for four years.  He came to Amenia, North Dakota. There he was married to Hulda Schrader in 1908 and spent the next 20 years in and around the Island Empire. Two years ago he moved to Quincy to live with his sister, Mrs. M. A. Sheppard. He was a member of the Christian Church and the Order of Telegraphers. He is survived by one son, Everett Rice, at Fairbanks, Alaska, two daughters, Mrs. Frank Sheer, of Seattle, and Mrs. Helen Thompson, of Spokane, two brothers, I. G. Rice, of Paintsville, Ky., and John D. Rice, of New York CIty; four sisters, Mrs. M. A. Sheppard and Mrs. Dora Daniels, both of Quincey, Mrs. Phoebe Conley and Mrs. Jane Caudill, both of Paintsville, Ky. ------------- Funeral services were held in Washington with burial in the family lot in the Wenatchee Cemetery.  Mr. Rice had many relatives and friends in Johnson County who regret his passing. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 7-18-1940

WELCH, Elizabeth
1940
MRS. WELCH 93 PASSES IN HUNTINGTON
Lovable Character Was Native of River, This County
Mrs. Elizabeth Welch, 93, former resident of River, Ky., died early Friday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. R. W. Pack, Huntington, W. Va. She was buried Sunday afternoon at River in the family cemetery overlooking her former home and the peaceful sweep of the Big Sandy River, over which she had passed hundreds of times as a passenger on steamboats piloted by her late husband, Capt. John Welch. Mrs. Welch  was one of the most lovable characters Johnson County ever produced, and was loved by all who knew her. Through her final illness, as long as she was concious, everything was always "all right," and she hated to call on those who so lovingly attended her for any service. As long as she was concious she always had a sweet smile and kind work for everyone who called to see her. Mrs. Pack, her only child, gave every possible help that a loving daughter could render, and was brought down with grief at her mother's death. Funeral services were held at the residence of John C. Gambill, River, by Rev. Arthur Greene. A large crowd attended, including every grandchild and great-grandchild of Mrs. Welch. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-18-1940

AUGUST - 1940

BALDRIDGE, Eddie Lee
1942
World War Vet Succumbs August 21
Eddie Lee Baldridge, Former Paintsville Citizen Buried Sat.
Funeral services were held Saturday, August 24 at 2 o’clock at the family cemetery on Abbott Creek for Eddie Lee Baldridge, who died August 21 in the Veteran’s Hospital at Dawson Springs, Ky. He was 45 years old and a former resident of Paintsville, but had been confined to the hospital most of the time since 1932. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in August, 1918, and was in the World War until the close of hostilities. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. E. L. Howerton, of Pikeville, Ky. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Pearl Baldridge, daughter, Lucille Schupp, Dennison, Ohio; son, Leo Baldridge, Fort Knox, Ky,; mother, Mrs. S. L. Baldridge, four brothers, Cecil Baldridge, Pikeville; Orville Baldridge, Williamson, W. Va.; Arthur Baldridge, Bonanza, Ky.; Harmon Baldridge, Norfolk, Va., and one sister, Mrs. J. H. Davis, of Paintsville. Mr. Baldridge was a member of the American Legion and had many friends in the Big Sandy Valley who regret to hear of his passing. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday August 29, 1940

BROHMAN, Bill
1940
BILL BROHMAN DIED FRIDAY MORNING
Well Known Staffordsville Oil Man Succumbs At 65
William C. (Bill) Brohman died at his home at Staffordsville last Friday, Aug. 2.  He was 65 years old and had been ill for about five weeks.  His death had been expected. Mr. Brohman was a native of Pennsylvania and came to Johnson County at the beginning of the oil boom where he has since worked as a driller.  He was married to Laura Blevins and established a home at Staffordsville. He was well known in the oil fields in Johnson and Magoffin counties and had many friends in both counties. Besides his widow he is survived by one brother and one sister of Butler, Pa. Funeral services were held at Old Union United Baptist Church at Staffordsville, with Rev. Guy W. Preston in charge of the services.  Burial was made in the Staffordsville Cemetery. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of funeral arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 8, 1940

BUTCHER, Bud
1940
THIRD MAN BADLY BURNED WILL RECOVER
Men Caught Under Truck Roasted By Flaming Gasoline
Another tragedy of the highways took its toll in the early morning hours of Monday, August 19, 1940, when two men were literally cremated following the wreck of a truck on the Garrett Highway between Paintsville and Inez. The tragedy took place at 2:00 a.m., Monday, August 19, 1940, on Lick Branch Hill.   The occupants of the car were Ben Cavins, Jr., 22, Bud Butcher, 48, and Burns Whitaker, 26, all of the White House section, and a small boy who was riding with the men at the time. - Cavins and Butcher Are Fatally Burned All Three of the men were burned, Cavins and Butcher fatally. Following the accident the occupants of the truck were brought to Paintsville for medical treatment. Cavins was taken to the Paintsville Clinic where he died Monday afternoon, August 19, 1940.  Butcher and Whitaker were taken to the Golden Rule Hospital where Butcher died shortly after midnight Tuesday morning, August 20, 1940. It is not definitely known just how the accident happened, but it is reported that the gasoline feed pipe to the carburetor became clogged and to overcome this difficulty a hose was attached to the carburetor and a 5 gallon can of gasoline placed on the floor of the truck.  When the machine wrecked the gasoline was spilled an ignited by flames from the exhaust pipe. When the truck wrecked Cavins and Butcher were caught by the truck.  Whitaker, owner and driver of the truck, was thrown clear and received his burns in trying to extricate the other two men, who took the full force of the flaming gasoline.  The boy was not burned. The three unfortunates were married men with families. Butcher was a son of Morton Butcher, of Boons Camp section, Cavins was a son of Ben Cavins, Sr., and Whitaker is a son of the late Henry Whitaker of White House. Fire from the gasoline raged for several minutes and every piece of clothing was slowly burned from the bodies of Cavins and Butcher. The bodies of the victims were taken to the Preston Funeral and prepared for burial. They were taken to Two Mile where funeral and burial took place Wednesday, August 21, 1940. Paintsville Herald Thursday 08-22-1940

CAVINS, Ben
1940
THIRD MAN BADLY BURNED WILL RECOVER
Men Caught Under Truck Roasted By  Flaming Gasoline
Another tragedy of the highways took its toll in the early morning hours of Monday, August 19, 1940, when two men were literally cremated following the wreck of a truck on the Garrett Highway between Paintsville and Inez. The tragedy took place at 2:00 a.m., Monday, August 19, 1940, on Lick Branch Hill.   The occupants of the car were Ben Cavins, Jr., 22, Bud Butcher, 48, and Burns Whitaker, 26, all of the White House section, and a small boy who was riding with the men at the time. - Cavins and Butcher Are Fatally Burned All Three of the men were burned, Cavins and Butcher fatally. Following the accident the occupants of the truck were brought to Paintsville for medical treatment. Cavins was taken to the Paintsville Clinic where he died Monday afternoon, August 19, 1940.  Butcher and Whitaker were taken to the Golden Rule Hospital where Butcher died shortly after midnight Tuesday morning, August 20, 1940. It is not definitely known just how the accident happened, but it is reported that the gasoline feed pipe to the carburetor became clogged and to overcome this difficulty a hose was attached to the carburetor and a 5 gallon can of gasoline placed on the floor of the truck.  When the machine wrecked the gasoline was spilled an ignited by flames from the exhaust pipe. When the truck wrecked Cavins and Butcher were caught by the truck.  Whitaker, owner and driver of the truck, was thrown clear and received his burns in trying to extricate the other two men, who took the full force of the flaming gasoline.  The boy was not burned. The three unfortunates were married men with families. Butcher was a son of Morton Butcher, of Boons Camp section, Cavins was a son of Ben Cavins, Sr., and Whitaker is a son of the late Henry Whitaker of White House. Fire from the gasoline raged for several minutes and every piece of clothing was slowly burned from the bodies of Cavins and Butcher. The bodies of the victims were taken to the Preston Funeral and prepared for burial. They were taken to Two Mile where funeral and burial took place Wednesday, August 21, 1940. Paintsville Herald Thursday 08-22-1940

COLLINS, James Garfield
1940
Garfield Collins Dies Staffordsville
The death angel visited the home of Mr. And Mrs. Garfield Collins and took from them then loving father and husband, Garfield Collins, last Saturday evening at two o'clock. Funeral and burial services were held Sunday. Revs. Millard Vanhoose and Mack Province conducted the funeral services. Burial was made in the family cemetery near the home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday     August 15, 1940

CONLEY, John
1940
John Conley, age 80, died at his home at Oil Springs, Friday, August 23, and was buried Sunday, August 25. He was a victim of the infirmities of age. He is survived by three brothers and one sister. His widow age 77, died Monday morning September 2, and funeral and burial services were held Tuesday afternoon. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Mr. and Mrs. Conley were prominent and highly respected citizens of the county and had resided in the Oil Springs section throughout their lives. Rev. John Collins, Oil Springs, conducted the funeral services for each. Burial was made in the Oil Springs Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Wednesday September 05, 1940

DANIEL, Walter
1914-1940
DEATH CLAIMS POPULAR LOCAL MAN
Walter Daniel, 26, Succumbs After Long Illness Walter Daniel, well known and prominent young man of Paintsville, died at the City View Hospital Saturday, August 3.  He had been in ill health for more than a year.  Although his death had been expected it was a shock to his relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted Sunday afternoon at the home of his parents at the corner of Second and West streets and were in charge of Rev. C. S. Smith, pastor of the First Baptist Church.  Burial was made in the family lot in the Mayo Cemetery. The following obituary was read at the funeral: Walter Daniel, fourth child of Dr. and Mrs. D. H. Daniel, was born July 19, 1914, and passed away August 3, 1940, age 26 years, and 15 days. He leaves three brothers, D. H. Jr., Vivian, Jack, and one half brother, Kenneth Fisher, and three sisters, Josephine, Anna and Katherine. Walter was graduated with highest honors at the Paintsville High School in the class of '32. After taking a business course he attended Madison College, at Madison, Tenn.  His scholarship and behavior were so outstanding and appreciated that the Dean of the College selected him as his private secretary. On account of ill health, Walter had to return home, but employed his time reading books that were uplifting and worth while.  He was a boy of the highest ideals and his influence for the best will last. While ill he spent much thought about his future and before he left said: "It is well with my soul; I am ready to meet my Master face to face." Paintsville Herald Thursday August 8, 1940

NICKELL, Earl
1940
EARL NICKELL, 21, FLAT GAP, VICTIM OF AUTO WRECK IN OHIO
Earl Nickell, 21, was fatally injuried in an auto wreck 15 miles out of Portsmith (Ohio) Tuesday morning. He was taken to the Postsmith General Hospital where he died shortly afterwards.  A cousin of the young man was slightly injured. According to information received here Nickell was returning from Chicago and while rounding a curve lost control of the car and smashed into a tree when his attention was attracted by a small boy who was waving at the car.  Nickell's skull was crushed by the collision. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Nickell of Flat Gap, and besides his father and mother he is survived by several sisters and brothers. Funeral and burial services were conducted at Flat Gap Thursday. Nickell was a prominent young man of that section.  He was a graduate of Flat Gap High School, class of 1939. The body was brought to the Preston Funeral Home Tuesday night, prepared for burial and then taken to Flat Gap Wednesday afternoon. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 8-29-1940

PELPHREY, Jesse
1940
PROMINENT LOCAL CITIZEN DIES SUNDAY
WELL KNOWN CITIZEN SUCCUMBS IN HIS SEVENTY-FOURTH YEAR
Jesse Pelphrey, prominent and well-known Paintsville citizen died at 7 o'clock Sunday morning at his home on Euclid Avenue.  He was 74 years of age and had spent his entire life in or near Paintsville. Jesse Pelphrey was one of the county's best citizens and had many friends and his passing is mourned by a large number of people. He moved to Paintsville from his farm at Staffordsville about thirty years ago and had followed his trade of carpenter and contractor. He had been prominent in lodge and church circles for nearly fifty years.  He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.  He was a devout Christian and lived the life of a Christian every day. Funeral services were held at 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon at the M. E. Church where he had been a regular attendant.  The funeral services were conducted by Rev. H. E. Trent, the pastor. The singing was in charge of Miss Gertrude Patrick who accompanied the quartette composed of Mrs. R. Lee Marsh, Mrs. John Shuey, Mr. Chas. Williams and Mr. Wildan Thomas. Besides his widow he is survived by three sons, Harry Pelphrey, Detroit, Mich.; Guy Pelphrey, United States Navy Annapolis, Md.; and Walter Pelphrey, South Bend, Ind. one brother, Harry M. Pelphrey, Madison, W. Va.; four sisters, Mrs. D. J. Chandler, Lowmansville, Ky.; Mrs. Emma Garrett, Holden, W. Va.; Mrs. George Green, Portsmouth, Ohio, and Mrs. Enoch Cox, Wenatchee, Washington. Burial was made in the family cemetery on the Tobe Dixon farm at Staffordsville. A large crowd attended the funeral and burial. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 8-22-1940

SALYER, Allie C. (Blanton)
1940
FORMER LOCAL WOMAN DIES IN ASHLAND
MRS. ALLIE C. SALYER, NATIVE OF THIS COUNTY SUCCUMBS SATURDAY
Mrs. Allie C. Salyer, age 60 of Ashland died at her home there after an illness of two weeks. She had lived in Ashland for 11 years. Mrs. Salyer was born in Johnson Co., and was a daughter of the late Jesse W. Blanton, and Mrs. Elizabeth Reed Blanton. Surviving are her husband, six daughters, Mrs. Mary Campbell and Mrs. Mary Slusher, both of Laura, Ohio, Mrs. Golda Laferty, and Mrs. Martha Wallers, both of Aslhland; Mrs. Neva Conley of Flatwoods, and Miss Lillian Salyer at home, four sons, James, Ohio, William, Lufty, and John Salyer, all of Ashland and Curtis Salyer, at home.  Four brother, Paris Blanton, Ashland, Willie Blanton, Nolan, WV., and John J. Blanton, Riceville, and one sister, Mrs. Prudy Sexton, Rice, KY. Funeral services and burial were held at Ashland, KY. Note: According to the Kentucky Death Index, date of death was 08-31-1940. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-05-1940

SELVAGE, Willard
1940
Willard Selvage Is  Killed And Four Others Injured
A car wreck occurred last Sunday night in which one was killed and three others more or less seriously injured. The wreck occurred at Walker Gap, a treacherous section of the Mayo Trail between Paintsville and Ashland. Those in the car were Carl Rice, son of Dr. and Mrs. Grant Rice, Oil Springs; Willard Selvage, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Selvage, East Point; Junior Burchett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ham Burchett, Stambaugh, and Charley Young, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Young. They were all young men from prominent families. According to reports Rice was driving and while rounding a slight curve his car ran out of the road and up a steep embankment. The car is said to have turned a somersault in the air and landed back in the highway and thence over a hill. Selvage was killed. His body was not found until about two hours after the wreck. When found he was hanging across a wire fence several feet from the scene of the accident. The other occupants of the car were all injured but will recover, it is believed, unless it is young Burchett who is still in critical condition. Young Selvage was a very popular young teacher of the county and his untimely death is mourned by a large circle of relatives and friends. He was a graduate of the Meade Memorial High School Williamsport, and Lees College, Jackson, Ky. Funeral services were held at East Point Tuesday and the popularity of this young man was attested by the large crowd which attended the services. The entire student body and faculty members of the Meade Memorial and Oil Springs High Schools attended to pay their last respects to a departed member of the teaching profession. Young Selvage was teaching Rock House School at the time of his death. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 29, 1940

SHERMAN, James Dalbert
1940
Child Dies After Fall From Second Story Window
James Dalbert Sherman, seven-months-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Dalbert Sherman, died last Thursday.  August 3, 1940, at the Paintsville Hospital, shortly after having fallen from a second story window at their home on Third Street.  The body was prepared for burial at the Paintsville Furniture Company before being taken to London, Ky., the home of Mr. and Mrs. Sherman, for funeral and burial. Mr. Sherman recently came to Paintsville where he is connected with the Agriculture Extension Department as Assistant County Agent. Those accompanying Mr. and Mrs. Sherman to London were Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Pidcock, Mrs. Carlos Goble and Mrs. Glen Craft. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 15, 1940

THOMAS, R. E.
1892-1940
R.E. THOMAS THOMAS RITES HELD AT LOCAL CHURCH FRI
Prominent Paintsville Man Succumbs Here Wednesday, Aug, 23
Funeral services were held at the Mayo Memorial Church at 2 o’clock For R. E. Thomas, prominent Paintsville citizen who died at the Paintsville Hospital on Wednesday, Aug 21, after a short illness. He had been a resident of Paintsville for the past three years.  He had been very active in church and lodge circles in this section Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor of the church, had charge of the services Burial was made in the Wells Cemetery in Bridgford The following obituary was read at the funeral rites: Robert Ernest Thomas, son of Robert and Clara Thomas, was born at Wellston, Ohio, May 6, 1892. He was united in marriage to Cora Music December 2, 1914, and to this union four children were born:  Helen Irene, Ernest Archer, Carol Roberta and Mildred Louise, all of whom survive He was converted and united, with the Methodist Church at Auxier, Ky., in 1919, and has been an active w2orker in the church since. He was also a loyal and enthusiastic member of the Masonic Lodge, holding his Blue Lodge membership at Auxier and his Chapter Membership at Prestonsburg. He was a high type citizen, trusted and respected by those for whom he worked and by those who were his associates; he was a faithful husband, a kind and indulgent father. He departed this life with the breaking of the first morning light August 21, 1940. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 29,  1940 THOMAS WAS LATER MOVED TO THE HIGHLAND MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY

SEPTEMBER - 1940

ADAMS, Ollie
1907-1942
Prominent County Teacher Succumbs
Rites For Ollie Adams Held At Hager Hill Last Sunday
Ollie Adams, 32, prominent teacher of Johnson County, died at 1:30 a. m. last Saturday. He had been in ill health for more than a year, but had been critically ill for the past four months. Although his death had been expected his passing in the prime of life brings a tinge of sadness to the teaching fraternity of the county and to his relatives and the numerous friends who knew him best. Mr. Adams was one of Johnson County best beloved men and very popular with all classes of people.  He was an able school man and had his career not been cut short he would have been one of our leading educators.  He loved his work and took delight in instructing the youth of the county. He attended Eastern State Teachers College, Richmond, Where he received his B. S. degree.  He taught in the Meade Memorial High School for two years when he became principal of the Jennies Creek High School.  Because of ill health he taught in the Oil Springs High School the latter part of 1939. Funeral services were conducted at his home at Hager Hill Sunday afternoon. He is survived by his mother Mrs. Rosa Adams: four sisters, Miss Laura Adams at home., Mrs. Leona Pickle, Staffordsville, Mrs. Lula Burton, Auxier, and Mrs. Lettie Johnson, Hager Hill. Rev. S. C. Honeycutt, Auxier, and Rev. C. S. Smith, pastor of the Paintsville Missionary Baptist Church were in charge of the services. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Co. directed the funeral and burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 26, 1940 OLLIE ADAMS The following obituary was read at the recent funeral of Ollie Adams. Ollie Adams was born September 19, 1907.  He was the only son of Harmon and Rose Adams, of Hager Hill, Kentucky.  He departed this life September 14, 1940, at the age of 32 years, 11 months, and 25 days. His father and sister, Ora preceded him in death several years ago.  He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Rose Adams, and four sisters, Miss Laura Adams at home; Mrs. Lula Burton, Auxier, Ky., Mrs. Leona Picklesimer, Staffordsville, Ky. and Mrs. Lottie Johnson, of Hager Hill, Ky. Ollie was well and favorable known throughout this section of the country.  Wherever he had an acquaintance, he had a friend. His interest in education coupled with much determination made him one of Johnson County’s best school teachers.  He taught and attended college until he earned a B. S. degree at Eastern State Teachers College, Richmond, Ky.  Then he taught in high school until he was promoted to the principalship of a high school.  His popularity as a man and a teacher ranked with the best in this county.  he was loved and respected by old and young, as well as by all the members of his profession. His untimely death will east a pall of gloom over the hearts of all who knew him. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 26, 1940

BOOTH, Beauty
1940
Miss Beauty Booth died Saturday, September 14, 1940, at the Marting Hospital, Ironton, Ohio. She was 28 years of age, and is survived by four sisters and three brothers. The body was brought to this place on Monday, September 16, 1940, where burial was made in the White House Cemetery. Rev. Dock Royland, of this place, and Rev. Henry Castle, of Auxier, conducted the services. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 26, 1940

BOWENS, James
1940
Death Claims 12 Year-Old Lowmansville Boy
James Bowens, 12 years old, died at his home at Lowmansville Saturday night, it was reported this week by the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company.  He had been ill for six months. Funeral services were held Monday at 10 o'clock in the church near his home.  Burial was made in the family cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. August Bowens, and one brother. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-26-1940

BURCHETT, Ham, Jr.
1940
VICTIM OF CAR WRECK DIES WEDNESDAY
Ham Burchett, Jr., Passes Away At Local Hospital Ham Burchett, Jr., died at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning at the Paintsville Hospital. The death of the young man was the result of injuries received in an automobile wreck at Walker Gap on the Mayo Trail about two weeks ago, in which Willard Selvage was killed and another injured. Young Burchett was a very popular young man, a member of a prominent family and his death is regretted by the people of Johnson County. He was a graduate of the Oil Springs High School, class of 39. Funeral services will be held from the home of his uncle, Albert Stambaugh, at Stambaugh, Ky., and burial in the family cemetery near the Stambaugh home. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ham Burchett, Sr., three brothers, Samuel J., James Otchel, Bill Oble, one baby sister and a great many relatives and friends. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 9-5-1940

BURKE, Cora C.
1940
THE DEATH OF A LOVING MOTHER CORA C. BURKE
She was the wife of L. B. Burke. Mother was forty-nine years, three months and seventeen days old. She was a Regular Baptist and lived a faithful Christian life until death had taken her away. Mother had been in ill health for several months. She had been taking treatments from Dr. Osborn, at Wheelwright Junction. She had gone back to the doctor Monday. She left home about 1 o'clock with hopes of returning home later in the evening. Dad and I (Maxie) had accompanied her on the trip. We had not been there more than half an hour until she had a heart attack. We were all sitting in the waiting room, and she called for us to come to her but before we got to her she had fallen to the floor. We now feel she is at rest. She was the loving mother of seven children, Mrs. Simon Mullins, Huntington; Maxie, Emily, , Watson, Rula, Girlie and Flurette Nadean. We certainly appreciated the respect shown by the teachers and students of Oil Springs High School. Also the neighbors who helped us in the home. We want to thank those kind friends who sent flowers. The funeral was conducted by the Malone Funeral Home, Pikeville, Ky. The ministers were Malcon Wright, Aaron Pack, Troy  Nicholas and Thomas Mosley, Floyd County. The burial was near her home on Barnetts Creek. Mother is not dead but is sleeping in the dust waiting for the redempton of the body, when Gabriel will stand with one foot on the land and the other on the seas and swear by him that lives forever that time will be no more. Then those that are ready and have a part in the first Resurrection will see mother again. The love of our fleshy mother is great; but the love of mother Jerusalem is the greatest of all for she is the mother of us all. Written by her broken hearted daughters, Rula and Maxine Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-19-1940

CASTLE, Louise (Grim)
1875-1940
HEART ATTACK FATAL TO MRS. CASTLE
Former Johnson County Woman Dies At Ashland Sept. 5
News has been received in Johnson County of the death of Mrs. Louise  Castle, 65, a former citizen of the county. Mrs. Castle died in Ashland last Thursday, September 5, following a  heart attack.  She had been in poor health for a year. Mrs. Castle was born in Johnson County February 17, 1875, the  daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Wallace Grim.  She was married to  Roscoe Castle in 1895 and had lived in Ashland for 20 years. Mrs.  Castle was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving are her husband, two daughters, Mrs. Jesse Baker, at home,  and Mrs. Walter Jessie, Ashland; on son, Russell Castle, at home; two  sisters, Mrs. Ed Pelphrey and Mrs. Asa Blair, both of West Van Lear,  and two brothers, Bascom Grim, Nippa, Ky., and Mart Grim, Portsmouth,  Ohio. Funeral and interment at Ashland. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 12, 1940

CONLEY, Will
1940
The Baptist Tidings
The above is a picture of Will Conley, who was born in Wheelersburg, Kentucky, and spent practically his entire life in that section. Some ten years ago he left Magoffin County and came to Johnson, settling in West van Lear. He had so endeared himself in the hearts of his neighbors that he was reckoned as one among their very best citizens. The funeral services were held at his home at 10:00 and immediately after the funeral the body was taken to the old Conley home for burial at Wheelersburg. The following statement was read at the services: Will Conley, son of Edward D. Conley and Elizabeth Conley, was born and raised in Magoffin County, deceased September 20, 1940, age 76 years, 3 mos and 27 days. He was a member of a large family, six brothers and six sister: Steve Conley, of Flat Gap, Ky.; John H. Conley, Ashland, Ky.;Henry Conley and James Conley of Litterals Fork, Ky.; David M. Conley of Oil Springs, Ky., George R. Conley of Paintsville: Martha Sayler, Flat Gap, Jane Fairchilds, Kenwood, Ky., Rebecca Jackson, Oil Springs; Mary Prewitt of Whitley County, Lydia Burchwell, Wheelersburg, Ky., and a little sister Susan who died in infancy. This family all preceded Uncle Will in death. He was married three times. His first wife was a daughter of Andy and Mary Ann Ritchie. There were born to this union four children, one dead and three living. Those living. Walter, Johnnie and Kernie. Their sister Mary, was called in death April 18, 1915. His second wife was Belle Sparks. There were born to this union four children. Two girls and two boys. Those living, Dave Conley of Virginia and Boone Conley of Ashland. His last wife was a daughter of John and Polly Smith of Morgan Co. Kentucky. There were born to this union six children, one dead and five living. Those living are Zella Cantrell of West Van Lear; Dewey Conley, Lonza Conley, Charley Conley, Wayne Conley, and Sarah Conley, all at home. Lizzie Conley was called in death several years ago. So he leaves a large family and a host of relatives and friends to mourn their loss. He will be greatly missed in the home, in his community and also in the church to which he belonged. He has been a member of the United Baptist Church which he ha taken a great interest in for many years. He loved to read the Bible and enjoyed a good conversation. In the last moments he called his wife to his bedside and talked to her and the children present. He said, " Don't bother me with anything, I have to leave you all. I am soon making the change." He said further, " Be good boys, be good to your Mother." He said to his wife, " Keep your house in order as you have in the past, which I believe you will." She told him not to worry. He said, "Now, I can go satisfied." He has just crossed the cold Jordan of death, and we believe that he has gone on to swell that number that John the Revelator saw coming up through great tribulations having robes washed and made white in the blood of the lamb. His passing is our loss. But we feel it is Heavens gain. Children, remember the parting words of your dear father and the good counsel he often gave.

CONLEY, William
1940
Aged Van  Lear Man Dies Friday
William Conley, 78, Succumbs After Illness  Of Eight Hours William Conley age 78, died at his home at Van Lear last Friday following a brief illness of eight hours. His sudden death came as a shock to his numerous friends in Johnson and Magoffin counties. Funeral services were conducted at Wheelersburg, Magoffin County, Sunday afternoon with Rev. John Prater in charge. Burial followed in the Conley Cemetery at Wheelersburg. He was a native of Magoffin County and was a son of the late Edward Conley of Wheelersburg. He had spent the greater part of his life at Wheelersburg as a farmer and only recently moved to Van Lear. He was a member of the United Baptist Church and had lived a devoted Christian life. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Martha Conley, Nine sons, Rev. Kerns Conley, and D. B. Conley of Ashland; Walter, John, Alonzo, Charlie, Dewey and Wayne Conley of Paintsville, and two daughters, Mrs. Zella Cantrell of Van Lear and Miss Sarah Conley of Van Lear. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 26, 1940

GOBLE, William Floyd
1899-1940
Death Claims Floyd Goble, Inez Man
William Floyd Goble, a prominent citizen of Inez, died at his home here Wednesday, September 4, after four months illness.  He was 41 years of age, having been born July 26, 1899. He was married to Gypsie Penix August 29, 1922, and to this union was born one child, Audrey Deloris, age 9. He is survived by his widow and one child, his father, Lewis Goble, Davella, Ky,; two brothers, Kelly, of Inez, and John of Davella; three sisters, Mrs. Columbus Stepp and Mrs. McCeleland Horn, of Inez, and Mrs. Herman DeLong of Hanley, W. Va., besides a host of relatives and friends. He has been an employee of the Warfield Natural Gas Company for the past five years and a member of the I. O. O. F. Lodge for the past three years. He had been a faithful member of the Church of Christ since 1938. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. W. L. Webb and Rev. Herschel Short, both of Meally, Johnson County, at the Davella Church of Christ. After the services the I. O. O. F. lodge had charge of the burial at the Goble cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-12-1940
  
GRIM, John
1940
LOWMANSVILLE
Death again visited the community and took one of our beloved citizens, Uncle John Grim, last Monday morning. He had been in ill health for sometime. Besides his wife, Mrs. Hester (Daniels) Grim he is survived by six children.  To the bereaved family and loved ones we offer our sincere sympathy. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-12-1940
  
GRIM, Josephine (Huff)
1940
HEART ATTACK FATAL TO LOCAL WOMAN
Mrs. Josephine Grim, 46, suffered a heart attack Wednesday at 12:30 from which she never recovered. She was a resident of Stafford Addition. Mrs. Grim had been gathering peaches in Blackberry Branch near her home and died almost instantly before help could reach her. Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon with burial at Thealka. She is survived by her husband, Charlie Grim, three daughters and three sons, all at home. She was the daughter of Frank Huff, of Nippa. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 9-12-1940
  
HONDEL, Willis
1940
WILLIS HONDEL SUCCUMBS TO STROKE
STRICKEN WHILE ALONG HIGHWAY AND DIES IN PAINTSVILLE HOSPITAL
Willis Hondel, 42, died at the Paintsville Hospital at 1 a.m. Monday following a paralytie stroke Sunday afternoon. Mr. Hondel had spent Sunday on Beaver Creek with his family visiting friends and relatives. On his return to Paintsville he suddenly drew up to the side of the highway just below Prestonsburg. His wife, sensing something wrong asked him what was the matter.  Mr. Hondel replied: "I can't see; I believe I am going blind." He slumped over the steering wheel.  He was rushed to the local hospital and died without regaining conciuosness. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at the Freewill Baptist Church.  Burial followed in the Wells Cemetery at Bridgford. He is survived by his widow and three children; also by two sisters, Mrs. Helen Myers, of Port Alleghrny, Pa., Mrs. Ruth Phillipi, of Confluence, both of whom were here to attend the funeral and burial.  Two brothers have preceded him in death. Mr. Hondel was a native of Pennsylvania and came here shortly after the oil boom and worked with his brother, the late Floyd Hondel, who was a contractor in the oil fields. Funeral services were in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 9-12-1940
  
JAMES, Anna Lee (Justice)
1940
MRS. ANNA LEE JAMES  Mrs. Anna Lee James, 22, died at the Golden Rule Hospital September 22. She had been ill for only a few days. She was a native of Patrick, Lawrence County. Funeral services were held at and the burial in the family cemetery in that neighborhood. She is survived by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Justice, her husband, Mr. Amon James, and three children.Paintsville Herald Thursday September 24, 1940
 
LAWRENCE, O.B.
1940
FORMER PAINTSVILLE MAN DIES AT LOUISVILLE
O. B. Lawrence, a former resident of Paintsville, died in a Louisville hospital Monday morning from infection of the throat. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence resided in this city for two years where Mr. Lawrence was connected with the Southern Bell Telephone and Telegraph Company. They had resided in Winchester since leaving Paintsville. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Ruth Lawrence,  and a small daughter, Betty Brock. They were guest of Mr. and Mrs. Rell Morris here a few months ago.Paintsville Herald September 19, 1940
  
LEEDY, Josephine
1940
Big Sandy Woman Killed in Auto Wreck Portsmouth, Ohio
Josephine Leedy, 17, of Georges Creek, KY, was killed and her mother, Mrs. Mollie Leedy, 33, was injured critically in an automobile collision near her last Saturday. Walter Leedy, 37 and Chester Fields, of Columbus, Ohio, drivers of the automobiles escaped injury, authorities said. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY SEP 12, 1940
  
LINKFORD, Lizzie
1940
White House Woman Dies September 13
Lizzie Linkford, 58, of White House died at her home there on Friday, September 13. Funeral and burial took place at White House Saturday afternoon. Mrs. Linkford was a widow and leaves no survivors. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of the burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 19, 1940
  
PACK, Sherman
1940
JOHNSON COUNTY MAN DIES IN IOWA
A message was received here Thursday ( today ) by Mrs. W.H. Slone apprising her of the death of her brother, Sherman Pack, at Paton ,Iowa. Mr.Pack was a former citizen of the county where he taught schools for a number of years. He moved to Iowa many years ago. Funeral and burial will take place at Paton, Iowa. 9-12-1940   Thursday Paintsville Hearld
  
PATRICK, Charles M.
1940
DEATH CLAIMS PROMINENT DENVER MAN
CHARLES M. PATRICK DIES WEDNESDAY; WIDOW VERY ILL
Charles M. Patrick, aged citizen of Denver, died at his home there at noon Wednesday.  Mr. Patrick was 82 years old and had been in ill health for several years.  He had been seriously ill for the past several months and his death had been expected.  His widow,  who is the same age as her husband, is critically ill and not expected to live. Mr. Patrick was one among the oldest citizens of Johnson County and had been prominent in business circles in his section until his death.  He had numerous relatives in Johnson and Magoffin counties. He is survived by his widow, Sarah Ann (Rice) Patrick, three sons, Dr. W. F. Patrick, Portlaand, Oregon, C. H. Patrick and Russell Patrick of Denver, and one daughter, Mrs. George Metcalfe, of Lexington, and one sister, Mrs. M. F. Rice, also of Lexington. Funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon at Liberty Baptist Church at Denver, with Rev. Sam Sloan, pastor of the Catlettsburg  Missionary Baptist Church in charge. Burial will follow in the family cemetery near the home. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company will direct the funeral and burial. A number of Paintsville relatives are expected to attend the funeral and burial. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 9-19-1940
  
PHILLIPS, Elizabeth
1940
Mrs. Elizabeth Phillips White House
Mrs. Elizabeth Phillips died at her home here Friday, September 1.  She had been confined to bed for several months.  She is survived by one son, one sister, one brother, and many relatives and friends who will miss her.  She was 56 years of age. Rev. Dock Rowland conducted the funeral services.  Burial was made in the Osborne Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-26-1940
  
PRESTON, W. M. (Bug)
1940
Former Sheriff Dies Here Monday
Prominent Local  Citizen Succumbs Following Stroke
W. M. (Bug) Preston, age 69, died at his home on Third Street here Monday morning at 11:30. He had suffered a paralytic stroke exactly one week before and never regained consciousness. Mr. Preston was a member of a prominent Eastern Kentucky family and had been active in public life. He was the son of the late Captain and Mrs. John Duncan Preston. Mr. Preston was a man of many friends and extremely popular with all classes of people. He was active in politics and began his political career when his father was elected Jailer. During this term he served as chief deputy. Later he served on the police force of Paintsville, and finally was appointed Chief of Police. After serving in this capacity for a number of years he made the race for Sheriff of Johnson County and was elected to that office by the people of this county. Last year he made the race for Police Judge of Paintsville and was elected by an overwhelming majority, but because of a technicality of law he was barred from holding the office. “Bug” Preston’s life has been a long and useful one, and the many friends throughout the county will mourn with his family because of his passing. He had lead a clean upright life, a life well worth emulation. Funeral rites were held at 2 o’clock Wednesday afternoon at the Missionary Baptist Church. Burial was made in the family lot in the old Brown Cemetery on the hill north of the city. A large number of relatives and friends were present at the funeral and burial to pay their last respects to the memory of a good man. Mr. Preston is survived by his widow, Mrs. Rhenda Price Preston; two daughters, Mrs. Henry Pfening, Jr., Columbus, OH, and Mrs. Arthur Archer, Prestonsburg; three sons, Frank and John H. Preston, Cincinnati, OH and Bill Preston of Paintsville; two sisters, Mrs. Ethel Howes and Mrs. Lee A.D. Tate, Huntington, WV; three brothers, Frank H. (Fige), Ed and Tom Preston, all of Huntington. He is also survived by two grandsons and seven granddaughters. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY SEPT 19, 1940
  
RICE, James Albert
1940
SQUIRE ALBERT RICE CLAIMED BY DEATH
Drops Dead At Wittensville From Heart Attack
James Albert Rice, 70, died suddenly at Wittensville early Monday morning from a heart attack.  He was staying at the home of Kenis VanHoose and was working as a sawyer at Mr. VanHoose's sawmill.  He was preparing to go to his work and was wiping the windshield of a truck when stricken.  He sunk down and never regained consciousness. Mr. Rice was one of the best known men in the county had had been very active during his life. For many years, he was in the timber and lumber business and operated a sawmill in various sections of the county. He was elected and served two terms as Magistrate of his district and was credited with being a good official. He was familiarly known as "Squire" Rice and was a man with many friends. Funeral services were held at 2 o"clock Wednesday afternoon at the home of ------CAN'T READ------of Wittensville. Burial was made in the family cemetery at that place. His wife preceded him in death several years ago. He was a son G. Wash Rice, an old Union soldier who died in Paintsville several years ago. He is survived by four daughters, Mrs. Dolly Victor Perry, Mrs. Maude Alice Daniel, and Mrs. Virginia Madge Hitchcock, all of Garrett, and Mrs. Minnie Emily Witten, Wittensville; four sons, Russell Gaines Rice, Van Lear; Barton Stone Gardner Rice, James Albert Rice, Jr., and Perry Bailey Rice, all of Garrett, Ky. He is also survived by one sister, Mrs. Lou Akers, Russell, Ky. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Co., had charge of the funeral arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-5-1940
  
SPARKS, Linda (Blanton)
1940
Linda Sparks, wife of Jesse Sparks and daughter of Gilbert and Meletha Blanton, age 51 years, - months and 23 days. She joined the United Baptist Church when 16 years old and lived in that church, until about two years ago when she took her membership to Point Pleasant Church at Skaggstown of New Regular Baptists. She lived a devoted Christian life until called by death.  She was a true and loving companion. Those who knew her best loved her most. She leaves a host of friends to mourn her passing. She leaves behind her husband, Jesse Sparks, one step-son, Kenneth Sparks, one step-daughter, Mary Alice  Skaggs, one brother, Millard Blanton, and one sister, Mrs. Milva Blanton, of Oil Springs, another sister, Mrs. Aaron Moore, Flat Gap. She died in the triumph of a living faith. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 9-5-1940
  
STONE, Ruby
1940
Ruby Stone, age 18, died at the Paintsville Clinic here September 21, after an illness of a few weeks.  She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Alma Stone, of East Point, three sisters and one brother. Funeral services were conducted at the old Stone home at the head of Little Paint.  Burial was made in the family cemetery there. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of arrangements in each death. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 26, 1940
  
VANHOOSE, Lafayette (Jackson)
1940
DEATH CLAIMS AGED CITIZEN OF BRIDGFORD
Lafayette (Jackson) Van Hoose Succumbs Monday, Age 86 Lafayette (Jackson) VanHoose died Monday afternoon, September 9, at his home in Bridgford Addition. Mr. VanHoose was 86 years of age and had been in poor health for more than a year. He had been seriously ill for the past two weeks and his death had been expected. Mr. VanHoose was a member of one of the oldest and largest families in the county and leaves many relatives. Funeral services were held from the home Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock. Rev. Millard VanHoose, a relative of the deceased, conducted the services. Burial was made in the family cemetery near the home. He is survived by his aged widow Lizzie Daniel VanHoose, two sons, Earl H. VanHoose and Ivan VanHoose, both of Bridgford. He is also survived by one sister, Mrs. Hemma Sublett, of Mill Branch Road, near Paintsville, and John Z. VanHoose of the Toms Creek section. The Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of funeral arrangements. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY SEP 12, 1940

OCTOBER - 1940
   
BLANTON, Mrs. Wayne
1940
MRS. BLANTON IS KILLED IN AUTO WRECK
Daughter Of Dan Davis, Manila, In Accident
Mrs. Wayne Blanton of Manila, this county was killed in an automobile wreck near Winchester last Friday. Five others were injured in the spill, 2 critically, it was reported here. Mrs. Lindsey Davis, 36, of Bartels, and Robert Lee Davis, 9, of West Point, suffered skull fractures. Darise Davis, 31, of West Point, and his 27 year old wife, parents of Robert Lee, and Mrs. Charles Molyneaux, 20, of Bardstown, suffered cuts and bruises. Edward Davis, 4, a brother of Robert Lee, escaped injury. State Patrolmen said the mishap was due to a break in the steering controls of the car. They said the car left the road, struck a telephone pole and hurtled a 15-foot embankment, and that Mrs. Blanton and Robert Lee Davis apparently were thrown through the top of the car. Mrs. Davis is a member of a prominent Johnson County family. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dan Davis, of Manila. The body was brought to Paintsville by the ambulance of the Preston Funeral Home and prepared for burial. Funeral services were held at the home of the victim's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Davis, Monday at 1 o'clock. Buriel followed in the family cemetery on the Davis farm at Manila. Mrs. Davis is survived by her husband, her father and mother, one sister, Mrs. May Lemaster, Manila; four brothers, Lindsey, Bartels, Ky., and Darlie, West Point, Ky.; Jim, Wayland, and John Davis, Barnetts Creek. Mrs. Blanton was a cousin of Walter Reed, Southside merchant. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-17-1940
  
BUCKINGHAM, Florence (Allen)
1940
FLORENCE BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
RITES HELD HERE TUESDAY
Funeral Services For Prominent Woman Largely Attended Funeral services were held at 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon for Mrs. Claude Buckingham who died at her home on Third street at 1:30 Sunday afternoon, October 6.  Mrs. Buckingham, one of the city's best loved and prominent women, had been ill for nearly a year. The funeral services were held at the First Methodist Church and were in charge of Rev. H. E. Trent, pastor of the church, and Rev. Thomas B. Ashley, of Pikeville, a former pastor and a friend of the Buckingham family.  Burial was made in the family lot in the Wells Buckingham Cemetery in Bridgeford Addition. Mrs. Buckingham was a member of a prominent Johnson County family. She was a daughter of the late George Jackson Allen and Nancy Jane (Rice) Allen.  She had been a member of the Methodist Church since early girlhood and had always taken a leading part in its activities. She was one of the most regular attendants and a devout member. During the funeral rites the choir sang "Crossing the Bar" and "Nearer My God To Thee." A quartette composed of Miss Gertrude Patrick, Mrs. George Weisenberger, R. C. Thomas and Charles Hoschar sang "Whispering Hope." Pallbearers consisted of nephews of Mrs. Buckingham.  They were: J. Earl Walker, Grant Wheatley, Carl Vaughan Martin, Ben H. Vaughan and Robert Montgomery, of Paintsville; Fred Fairchild, Bob and Brown Allen, of Inez. The funeral and burial were largely attended by relatives and friends of the family from many points. Besides her husband, Judge Claude Buckingham, she is survived by one daughter, Mrs. E. Stafford, Camargo, Ky., and three sisters, Mrs. Fred Howes and Mrs. Lucy Spears, of Paintsville and Mrs. John R. Fairchild, of Inez. Four sisters and one brother have preceded her in death. Paintsville Herald Thursday October 10, 1940
  
BURKE, Jeff
1940
DEATH CLAIMS JEFF BURKE OF RICEVILLE
Well-Known Citizen Succumbs To Heart Ailmant
Jeff Burke, 70, one of the most prominent farmers and citizens, of his section of the county, died at his home at Riceville. Monday, September 30. He had been ill for more than nine months of heart trouble. Mr. Burke was a son of the late George and Margaret Jane Colvin Burke. He was a native of Morgan County but had spent the greater part of his life in Johnson County, where he was married to Miss Nancy Ann Horne, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Tom Horne, who were residents of Rock House at the time. His wife preceded him in death about two years ago. He had been a merchant for many years and had conducted stores at Denver and Riceville. He is survived by the following children: Mrs. R. M. Kelly, Ivyton, Ky., Don Burke, Paintsville; Mrs. W. E. Conley, Dorr, Mich.; Con Burke, Paintsville, Mrs. Tom Patrick, Staffordsville; Tom Burke, Prestonsburg; Den Burke, Prestonsburg, Raymond Burke, Bananza and Gladys Burke of Riceville. He is also survived by the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. John Blair, Collista; Mrs. Emma Mounts, Vulcan, W. Va.; Mrs. Lucy Selvage, Barnetts Creek; Mrs. Minnie Salyers, Paintsville; Mrs. Leona Wright, Paintsville, and Harrison Burke, Van Lear. Funeral services were held at the home at Riceville Tuesday at 1 o'clock p.m. and were in charge of Rev. Scott Castle. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Riceville. The funeral and burial were largely attended. A number of relatives and friends of the family from Paintsville were in attendance. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-3-1940
  
HAYES, Louisa
1940
DEATH CLAIMS AGED JOHNSON CO. WOMAN
Funeral services were held Wednesday, October 17, (1940) for Mrs. Louisa Hayes, age 89, who died at her home at Tutor Keys, this county, formerly Mingo. Mrs. Hayes had been a life-long resident of  Johnson County.  She was the widow of the late Arch Hayes, a well-known citizen of the county. Funeral services were in charge of Rev. Millard Van Hoose of Paintsville.  Burial was made at the family cemetery at Tutor Key. Surviving are the following sons and daughters: Charles Hayes, Red Bush; Ben Hayes, Catlettsburg; Mrs. Flora Griffith, Paintsville; Mrs. Don Dixon, Ashland; Mrs. Charles Kazee, Tutor Key; Mrs. Harnes Van Hoose, Paintsville; Mrs. Walter Ward, Tutor Key; and two sisters, Mrs. John Jones, Catlettsburg and Mrs. Rebecca Hayes, Argillite, Ky. Hayes, Louisa PAINTSVILLE HERALD  THURSDAY 10-24-1940
  
LEWIS, Mrs. Earl (Keen)
1940
Floyd Woman Dies In Lexington
Mrs. Earl Lewis, of Fed, Ky., died in a Lexington hospital Tuesday, October 8, from injuries received in an automobile accident three weeks ago. Dr. and Mrs. Lewis had been visiting in West Virginia where the car accident happened. Both Dr. and Mrs. Lewis were badly injured.  There were taken to Lexington where Dr. Lewis re- mains a patient at a hospital in that city. The body was brought to the Preston Funeral Home here and prepared for burial.  It was taken to the home  of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Keen, at Fed where funeral services were conducted and burial made in the family cemetery there on Friday, October 11. Dr. Lewis is a son of Dr. A. I. Lewis, a former resident of Greasy Creek, this county. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-10-17-1940
  
MCKENZIE, Mary L. (Stapleton)
1940
MRS. McKENZIE DIES AT HER HOME SUNDAY
Several Months' Illness Fatal To Staffordsville Woman Mrs. Forest McKenzie, 48 years old, died Sunday night at nine o'clock at her home at Staffordsville.  She had been ill for several months prior to her death. Mrs. McKenzie was a prominent and well loved mother of her community and her death brings sorrow to a large number of relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at the McKenzie home Tuesday afternoon at two o'clock.  Rev. Glenn Wells, of Staffordsville was in charge of the services.  Burial was made in the family cemetery there. Besides her husband she is survived by nine children. Mrs. McKenzie was a daughter of Will Stapleton and Lydia Craft Stapleton of Magoffin county. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday October 10, 1940
  
MOLLETTE, Rebecca (Daniel)
1940
Mrs. Rebecca Mollette, Succumbs At Thelma
Mrs. Rebecca Mollette, age 71, died Monday, October 7, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Nannie Childers at Thelma, this county. Mrs. Mollette had been suffering from a paralytic stroke for the past four months.  She was a daughter of the late Wyatt Daniel, a minister of the United Baptist Church.  Mrs. Mollette was a devoted member of the same church organization. Funeral services were held at the home Tuesday afternoon, October 8, with burial in the family cemetery at Chestnut. Surviving are the following children; Russell Mollette, White House, Ky.; Levy Mollette, Thacker, W. Va.; Mrs. Emma Chapman, Chapman, W. Va.; Mrs. Lina Miller, Charley, Ky., and Mrs. Nannie Childers, Thelma, Ky.; one sister, Mrs. William Salyers, Potter, Ky., and two brothers, Dr. D. H. Daniel, Prestonsburg, and Rev. John Daniel, Barnetts Creek. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-17-1940
  
PACK, Mrs. Lee
1940
Aged County Woman Dies October 11
Mrs. Lee Pack, one of the best known women of the Davisville community died at her home there last Friday, October 11. She was 72 years old and had been a life long sufferer of asthma which constributed to her death. Funeral services were conducted at the Hood Church on Saturday at 2 p.m. in charge of Rev.Guy W. Preston , Rev. Geroge W. Gibbs and Rev. Charles Wheeler. She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Her funeral and burial were largely attended. She is survived by the following children: Mrs. W.H. Daniels, Euphrata Washington, Mrs. A.H. Hayes, Wilbur, Ky., Mrs.E.L. Lemaster, Flat Gap, Mrs.J.H Sparks and Buel Pack of Davisville, J. B. Pack, Staffordsville and A.T. Pack of Paintsville. 10-17-1940 Thursday Paintsville Herald  
  
PRESTON, Samuel S.
1940
SAM PRESTON DIED IN BOYD LAST WEEK
Funeral Services For Former Local Citizen Held Friday. Samuel S. Preston, 60, died at his home in Catlettsburg, October 9,  it was reported by relatives here this week.  Death followed a stroke suffered two hours earlier.  Funeral services were conducted at the Missionary Baptist Church in  Hapton City on Thursday afternoon, October 10, in charge of the pastors,  Rev. Sam Slone and Rev. W. C. Pierce. Mr. Preston, a native of Johnson County, was the son of George and  Elizabeth (Meek) Preston, had resided in Catlettsburg for the past 30  years and had a legion of friends who were shocked to hear of his  sudden death. The Preston family has many relatives in Johnson County. Paintsville Herald Thursday  October 17, 1940
  
PRICE, Martin
1940
Former County Man Dies In West Va.
Martin Price, age 52, died at the home of a sister at Matewan, W. V.,  Monday, October 14.  The body was brought to Paintsville by the Preston  Funeral Home and prepared for burial.  Tuesday it was shipped by C. &  O. to Patrick, this county, his old home for burial.  Though a native  of this county he had been making his home with his sister for some  time. Funeral was held Wednesday and burial was made in the family cemetery  at Patrick. Paintsville Herald Thursday October 17, 1940
  
RICE, George B.
1861-1940
George B. Rice Dies In Huntington
As The Herald went to press Thursday afternoon news was received from Huntington that George B. Rice, formerly of this county had died suddenly in St. Mary's Hospital of that city. Death occured at 8:30 a.m. The body will be brought to Paintsville Saturday morning and will lie in state at the Mayo Memorial Church. Funeral services will be conducted at 1 o'clock in the afternoon. Burial will be made in the family cemetery at Hager Hill. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-24-1940 The following obituary was read at the funeral of George B. Rice at the Mayo Memorial Church last Saturday afternoon. George B. Rice George B. Rice, son of Martin R. Rice and Mary Jane Hannah Rice, was born in Johnson County, Kentucky, November 6, 1861. He was married to Nettie Stafford in November 1888, and to this union were born two sons, George b. Rice and Maj. W. S. Rice, of Chicage, and one daughter, Mrs. H. C. Sale, Huntington, W. Va., all of whom are living. Besides these there remain to mourn their loss one brother, Sherman Rice, two sisters, Mrs. Sarah Patrick, and Mrs. Katherine Conley, and two grandchildren. Mr. Rice resided for several years at Hager Hill, Ky., but in recent years has made his home in Florida, Chicago and Huntington, W. Va. He departed this life October 24, 1940, in the St. Mary's Hospital, Huntington, W. Va. Following were the pallbearers: Harry LaViers, John G. Newman, W. B. Bailey, Charles Wells, Dr. G. M. Stafford, G. H. Rice, Ed Rice, Walter Meek and Wallis Bailey. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-30-1940
      
ROWLAND, Benjamin Hays
1890-1940
Benjamin Hays Rowland b. 24 Oct 1890 Johnson Co,Ky  died 22 Oct 1940 burial Siloam Cem.
Spouse: Nola Earwood
Son of Isaac(?) Rowland and Jane Picklesimer (states both b. Johson Co).
Source: Records of Stapf Funeral Home in Greenup Co,Ky.
     
WELLS, Julia Alice (Howes) Buckingham
1858-1940
Julia Alice Howes Buckingham Wells, the subjects of this sketch was born in Paintsville, Kentucky, October 26, 1858.  She departed this life October 23, 1940, age eighty-two years, lacking three days. She was the daughter of John and Jane ( Young ) Howes.  She was the youngest of a family of 14 children all of whom preceded her in death.  Charles J. Howes, Win Howes, Millard F. Howes, F. F. Howes, Pamela Spradlin, Nan Childers, Malissa Ferguson, Kit Vaughn Josephine Williams,  and four, who died in infancy. Her father was familiarly known as Clerk John Howes.   He was Johnson County first Clerk nearly 100 years ago - and served in that capacity for more than 20 years. He was also a preacher of local prominence in the Methodist Church. The Howes family has from time to time, furnished Methodist ministers of some distinction.  Charles J. and Win Howes have been preachers of considerable prominence in the Methodist Conference of both Kentucky and Kansas. The brothers and sisters of the deceased, and their descendent have exercised considerable influence over the social, religious, political and business life of this section. Julia Alice Howes was married in early life to A. J. Buckingham, and to this union were born three sons, John E. and Claude and one daughter Josephine.  After the death of Mr. A. J. Buckingham she married  Mr. John Howes, to this union were born six children, Lennie, Kendrick, Walter, Hubert, Herbert and Byron and two daughters Virginia Lee and Geneva. She leaves surviving her to mourn their loss four sons, John E. Buckingham, Chattanooga, Tenn; Claude Buckingham, Herbert Wells and Byron Wells of this city, and two daughters  Mrs. V. S. Taylor, Portsmouth, Ohio and Mrs. V. D. Splane, Nashville, Tenn. Also sixteen grandchildren, Mrs. Herman Williams, Paintsville; Mrs. Robert May and Mrs. Burl Spurlock, Prestonsburg; Mrs. John Smith, Portsmouth, Ohio; Mrs. E. D. Stafford, Camarge, KY, V. D. Splane, Jr. Lexington; Lafe Taylor, Portsmouth. Ohio; John Ken Wells, Misses Peggy and Virginia Wells, Bob and Scotty Wells, Paintsville; Miss Martha Alice Buckingham, Mrs., John Barns and Mrs. Froy Browning, Ashland. The following grandsons officiated as pallbearers:  Herman Williams, Scotty Wells, bobby Wells, V. D. Splane, Jr., Lafe Taylor, John Smith and John K. Wells.  Eight great-grand-children, and numerous relatives and friends survive. She has been a member of one or the other Methodist Churches of Paintsville practically all her life.  She loved her church and was an admirer of and a true friend to all Methodist preachers. Next to her children she loved her home, perhaps above everything earthly.  She lived for it and her children.  She was always a devoted Christian but above all, she was a wonderful Mother. “ Ma Wells,” as she was familiarly known, kept young in spirit.  She loved young people and interpreted their lives in the light of modern times.  She was truly the friend of struggling youth. Paintsville Herald Thursday October 31, 1940 Mrs. Julia Wells Succumbs Here At Age of 82 Mrs. Julia Howes Buckingham Wells died at her home in Paintsville Wednesday afternoon at 5:30 p m. . Had she lived until next Saturday, October 26, she would have been 82 years of age. Mrs. Wells was a member of a large and prominent family of Paintsville and Johnson County.  She was a daughter of the late John Howes and Jane Young Howes and was the last surviving member of a family of fourteen children.  She had been a loyal church member and took an active part in all church activities until prevented from doing so by declining health.  She was a member of the Mayo Memorial Methodist Church. Mrs. Wells had always enjoyed good health until a few months ago.  She possessed an active mind and was considered one of our most intelligent women.  She was a mother of an intelligent family of sons and daughters, She will not only be missed by her children but her death will be regretted by hundreds of other relative and friends throughout the Big Sandy Valley.  Her good works will live after her. The funeral services will be conducted Friday afternoon, at Mayo Memorial Church. The services will be in charge of Rev. Gary Coleman, pastor of the church. Burial will be made in the family lot in the he Wells-Buckingham Cemetery in Bridgeford.  She is survived by two daughters Mrs. V. D. Splane of Nashville, Tennessee and Mrs. V. S. Taylor of Portsmouth, Ohio;  four sons John E. Buckingham of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Judge Claude Buckingham, Hubert Wells, and  Byron Wells all of Paintsville. Three other sons, J. K. Wells, prominent Paintsville Attorney, Walter S. Wells, well known business man of Prestonburg, and Lynn Wells, have preceded her in death. An obituary, giving a brief history of her life and the names of her grandchildren, will be published next week.  November 24, 1940.
  
WELLS, Nora
1940
MRS. ED WELLS DIED AT BOONS CAMP FRIDAY
News has reached here of the death of Mrs. Nora Wells, wife of Ed Wells, who died at her home at Boons Camp, on Greasy Creek, last Friday. Mrs. Wells was a prominent and respected woman of her community. A more detailed account of Mrs. Wells' death will be found in the Here and There in Johnson County column this week. A number of Paintsville relatives and friends of the family attended the funeral and burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday  10-17-1940 DEATH CLAIMS MRS. WELLS The death angel visited the home of Ed Wells here Friday evening and removed from the home his wife, Nora Wells. Rev. Mack Province had charge of the funeral services which were largely attended. Those attending the funeral from Paintsville were Mr. And Mrs. Z. Wells, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Wheeler, C. C. Ward and Shade Wells; those attending from Inez were Mr. and Mrs. Blaine Clark and son; from Kenova W. Va., were Mr. and Mrs. Mack Gose and daughter. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-17-1940
  
WHITTAKER, Burns
1940
Burns Whittaker, 32, Succumbs to Burns Received In Wreck
Burns Whittaker, age 32, of White House, this county, died Monday morning October 14, at the Golden Rule Hospital of this city. Whittaker had been a patient in the local hospital since last August when he was seriously burned in a car wreck on the hill near the Johnson Martin county line on Route 40.  At the same time Ira (Bud) Butcher and Hennie Cavins were fatally burned and died shortly after the accident. Whittaker has suffered untold agonies since receiving the burns. Burns Whittaker was a son of the late Henry Whittaker, prominent farmer of the White House section. Funeral services were held from the home at White House with burial in the family cemetery on the Whittaker farm. Besides his widow and three children he is survived by his mother, Mrs. Ardena (Preston) Whittaker, three brothers and one sister at home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-17-1940 

NOVEMBER - 1940
   
BARR, Rose Lee (Tally)
1940
ROSE LEE TALLY BARR
Martin County Missionary
Dies in Paintsville Hospital
Mrs. Rose Lee Tally Barr, of Martin County, age 27, died in the Paintsville Hospital here Monday night after an illness of only a few days. Mrs. Barr and husband came to Martin County two years ago from Philadelphia, Pa., as missionaries working in Martin County. She was brought to the local hospital Sunday and steadily grew worse until her death. Funeral services were held at the school house at Beauty, Martin County, Wednesday afternoon. The body was taken to Kermit, W. Va., where it was shipped to her home in Philadelphia for burial. She is survived by her husband, Rev. Winn T. Barr.  She has a sister who is a missionary in West Virginia. The Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of funeral arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-14-1940
  
BROWN, W. M.
1940
AGED CITIZEN DIES NOVEMBER 13
W. M. Brown, age 72, died suddenly at Riceville on Wednesday, November 13, where he had gone for a short visit with relatives. He had made his home in Paintsville part of the time with his daughter, Mrs. Sam Yates. Funeral and burial services were held at Ivyton, Magoffin County, Friday, November 15. Funeral and burial arrangements were in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-21-1940
  
CASTLE, Pandora
1940
THEALKA INFANT BURIED AT LICK FORK SATURDAY
Pandora Castle, six-months-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sherman  Castle, Thealka, died Friday morning at the Paintsville Clinic of  pneumonia.  Funeral services were held Saturday at the home.  After  the funeral the body was taken to Lick Fork for burial.  Surviving are  her father and mother, three sisters and one brother. The Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of arrangements.  PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday November 28, 1940
  
HOLBROOK, Louisa Catherine (Hamilton)
1850-1940
LOUISA CATHERINE HOLBROOK WAS NATIVE OF JOHNSON COUNTY
On November 21, (1940) death entered the home of Ben Holbrook, New Boston, Ohio, and took his aged mother, Mrs. Louisa Catherine Holbrook. Mrs. Holbrook was formerly of Johnson County and was a sister of B. R. Hamilton of Red Bush, Ky. She was born May 26, 1850 and died November 21, 1940, age 90 years. She was the daughter of Thomas Hamilton and Mary Ferguson Hamilton, who were among the early settlers of the Laurel Creek section. In 1870 she was married to William Henderson Holbrook, of Lawrence Co., Ky. who died within a year of their marriage.  To this union was born one daughter, Cora Holbrook Webb, deceased. On May 13, 1875, she was married to John Burton Holbrook, of Elliott County, and to this union was born four children; Fora, Normand, Ben and Willie.  Fora died in early childhood.  The three sons are living. John Burton Holbrook preceded her in death a good many years ago. At one time in her life ahe was a member of the United Baptist Church, although about the year 1900 she changed her membership to the Enterprise Baptist Church to which she remained faithful and lived a devout Christian life. "Aunt Katy" as she was affectionately known, had a pleasing personality and spoke with kindness to everyone.  Especially worthy of praise were the kindness, the home, and the daily care which she gave an invalid sister-in-law for about 27 years. For the last few years she had made her home with her son, Ben at New Boston, Ohio, where she had the best of care and everything was done for her comfort that loving hands could do. Of her first marriage she is survived by one grandson, Roy E. Webb, of Red Bush, 4 great grand- children and 3 great-great grandchildren. Of her second marriage she is survived by three sons, 7 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Mrs. Holbrook's body was brought to the home of B. R. Hamilton on Friday where it lay in state until funeral services Saturday were conducted by Rev. H. T. Hamilton and Rev. Bill Hill. John R. Hamilton led in prayer at the cemetery. Burial was made in the Hamilton Cemetery overlooking the place she was born. "From our presence she has gone To rest at God's throne To await the angel's call Then she will meet the rest of us all." -Prudy Hamilton PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 11-28-1940
  
MCDOWELL, Alice (Walters)
1940
BOONS CAMP WOMAN, AGE 20, DIES AFTER YEAR'S ILLNESS
Mrs. Alice Walters McDowell, age 20, this county - died November 19, (1940).  Mrs. McDowell had been ill for a year.  Although her death had been expected, it came as a shock to her family and friends. Funeral services were held Wednesday, November 21 at Little Friendship Church in charge of Rev. Tip Preston and Rev. Lafe Preston of the United Baptist Church. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Boons Camp. Mrs. McDowell is survived by her husband, Everett McDowell, and her father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Walters. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of arrangements. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 11-28-1940
  
OSBORN, A. J. (Andy)
1940
WELL KNOWN COUNTY CITIZEN PASSES AT AGE OF 70 YEARS
A. J. (Andy) Osborn, well known  Johnson (County)citizen of the Toms Creek section died Sunday at the home of his daughter, Mrs. ?Ferrett Stambaugh, near Stambaugh post office, Monday, November 18, (1940). He was 70 years of age. Mr. Osborn was a good citizen and a devout Christian.  He had many friends in his neighborhood and his passing will be regretted.  He made the race for Jailer a few years ago and received a good vote. Funeral services were conducted at the Nippa Freewill Baptist Church at Nippa Wednesday morning. Burial was made at Wittensburg. He is survived by four daughters and three sons. Mr. Osborn had been ill for four weeks previous to his death but his condition had not been considered serious. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of funeral and burial arrangements. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THUSRSDAY 11-28-1940
  
SALYER, Troy
1940
RITES FOR PROMINENT VAN LEAR CITIZEN CONDUCTED SATURDAY
Funeral rites for Troy Salyer, 44, of Van Lear, who died Wednesday of last week in the Paintsville Hospital were conducted at the Methodist Church, at Van Lear Saturday with Rev. Winches in charge. Following the funeral the body was taken to the home of his brother Edward Salyer, at Kerz, this county where it remained in the home until Sunday morning at 10 o’clock when burial was made in the family cemetery on the Salyer farm. Mr. Salyer had worked for many years for the Consolidation Coal Company at Van Lear. He is survived by his widow and one son, Wayne Salyer, one brother, Edward Salyer, Kerz; three sisters, Mrs. Delbert Murray, Miss Cora Salyer, and Miss Delsa Salyer, all of Flat Gap. Paintsville Hearld Thursday November 28, 1940
  
SKAGGS, Murlie (Athington)
1940
Mrs. Williams and Mrs. Skaggs Die At Homes
Recently The Preston Funeral Home reported the deaths of two Johnson County women in different sections of the county. Mrs. Murlie Skaggs, 26, died at her home in Lowmansville Monday, November 4, after an illness of one year. Funeral rites were conducted on Wednesday, November 6, at Chestnut Grove Church of new Regular Baptists. Burial in the Borders Cemetery at Lowmansville. She is survived by her husband and three children. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arthington of Lawrence County. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 14, 1940
  
WARD, Amanuel
1940
Paintsville Herald Fri. Dec. 20 1940
In Memory
On Nov. 27, 1940 the death Angle visited the home of Mr and Mrs Mant Ward and took their loving father. He had been sick for a long time.He leaves to mourn two girls. Zora of Cannonburg, Ky. and Alifare of Ulyesses Ky.  and  five boys. Shirdan ,at Skaggs, Sam at Santa Ann,Calif. Chilt at Almin, Ohio, Lunda at Wakefield Ohio, Asberry at home .Also Rosa Bell Cordle and a sister Cora Mckinzie at Lowmansville.Ky.   He lived a devoted christian the most of his life and belong to the United Baptish church. A dau.in law.  From Geneva Ward  Hughes. This is my grandfathers obit. His name is Emanuel.They called him Mant .Nickname  Thank you. Geneva The obit I sent you was the son of Francis Marion and Jane Rose Ward.His name was Amanuel on his marriage record in Johnson Co.Ky.As you see he was Cora Mckinzie s father.They called him Mant . Also found record of Enanuel.Everyone on thr internet has him down as Samuel. It was not his name. He had a bro. name on the 1880 census  Grant U.S.S. Ward. Every one called him Tobe. He married Elizabeth Chandler. I have talk to his grandson. Geneva
  
WELLS, I. S.
1869-1940
AGED BOONS CAMP MAN DIES MONDAY
I. S. Wells, 72, Had Been Ill For More Than Three Years
I. S. Wells, age 72, died Monday morning at 10:30 at the old Wells homestead at Boons Camp. He had been in ill health for more than three years, but he had been seriously ill for the past several weeks. His death had been expected. He was a member of a prominent family and had been known as a good citizen. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home. Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church conducted the services. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge of Paintsville. The following obituary was read at the funeral. I. S. Wells I. S. Wells, son of Mary Hicks Wells and William Allen Wells, born January 22, 1869 at Boons Camp, Kentucky. He was married December 19, 1895, to Mary Dutton Wells, to which union were three daughters, Mrs. Cholie Wells, Boons Camp, Mrs. A. D. Slone, Paintsville, and Mrs. Ellen Wells Pack of Boons Camp. He was second the eldest child  in a family of thirteen. Surviving him are two sisters, Mrs. George Walters, Shoals, West Va., and Mrs. G. C. Perry, Sr., Paintsville and six brothers, C. J. Wells, Boons Camp,; R. G. Wells, and E. D. Wells, Pikeville; Dr. J. A. Wells,  G. C. Wells, and J. L. wells, Paintsville; preceding him in death are two sisters, Mrs. Charles Davis, and  Mrs. U. S. Welch, and  two brothers, W. G. Wells and M. A. Wells. For about fifteen years he was connected with the Grenough Coal Co., of Hellier, Kentucky, and Pike-Floyd Coal Co., at Betsy Layne, in an official capacity, but later retired to his old home on account of ill health. At an early age he became a member of the Methodist Church at Wells Chapel, which church was named for the Wells family of this community. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, No 381, Paintsville, Ky. He was a trusted and respected citizen, a faithful husband and kind father. He departed this life on Monday morning, November 4, 1940. Paintsville Herald Nov.07 1940
    
WILLIAMS, Henry F.
1940
HENRY F. WILLIAMS, 83, WAS FATHER OF PAINTSVILLE MAN
Henry Farmer Williams, 83, prominent father of the Laurel section five miles from Blaine died at his home there last Friday night. Mr. Williams was a son of the late Ning and Sibby Evans Williams, pioneer resident of this county. He was born and reared on Laurel and had resided there all his life. He had been a member of the Jake Rice Masonic Lodge of Blaine for 55 years and a member of the New Regular Baptist Church of Flat Gap, for more then 30 years. Funeral rites were conducted at the home Sunday afternoon by the Rev. Hood Wallen and interment was made in the Williams family cemetery under the direction of the Curtright Funeral Home. The Jake Rice Masonic Lodge conducted its ritual at the interment. Mr. Williams is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mellissa Evans Williams, to whom he was married 56 years ago; six daughters, Mrs. Nora Osborn, Ashland, KY; Mrs. C.L. Morris, Blaine, KY; Mrs. B.M. Wright, Scciotoville, OH; Mrs. Wm. Gambill, Abileen, Texas; Mrs. Nola Skaggs, Martha, KY; and Mrs. Gusta Miller, of London, Oh; three sons Oscar M. Williams, Flat Gap, KY; Ottie F. Williams, Paintsville, KY; and Dr. Homer C. Williams, of Ashland, KY and one sister, Mrs. Emily Grimsley of Indianapolis, IN. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-14-1940
  
WILLIAMS, Maude
1940
MRS. SHUG WILLIAMS DIES
Asa--The death angel visited home of Shug Williams and took his  loving companion on November 5.  She leaves to mourn her husband, two  daughters, Ruie May and Kate Blair, and two sons, Marvin Williams and  Geo. Williams, one sister and two brothers, and other relatives.  We  all hope to meet her in heaven some day. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 21, 1940 Mrs. Williams and Mrs. Skaggs Die At Homes Recently The Preston Funeral Home reported the deaths of two Johnson County women in different sections of the county. Mrs. Maude Williams, age 68, died at her home at Asa on Tuesday, November 5, after an illness of two years. Funeral services were held from the home on Wednesday afternoon, November 6, with Rev. Millard O'Bryan and Rev. Hargus Conley in charge of the services. Mrs. Williams is survived by her husband, M. I. Williams, two daughters, Mrs. Ruie May and Mrs. Kate Blair, both of Asa; two sons, Marvin Williams, Louisa, Ky., and George Williams, Piketon, Ohio. She was the daughter of the late E. L. and Malissa May Fairchild. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 14, 1940
DECEMBER - 1940

   
BALL, William Homer
1940
Former Lawrence County Clerk Dies of Hemorrhage
William Homer Ball Louisa, Ky. – William Homer Ball, 36, former Lawrence County Court Clerk, died at 8:15 a.m. last Thursday, Feb.8, 1940, while feeding cattle on his farm on Rich Creek, nine miles west of Louisa.  A doctor had visited his home to treat him for a cold, but his condition was not believed serious. He suffered a hemorrhage while feeding his cattle and died before a doctor could be summoned. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Walnut Gap Methodist Church near his home, where he was superintendent of the Sunday School. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY Feb.15, 1940
  
BOWLING, Bailey
1837 -- 1940
VAN LEAR MAN DIES AT AGE OF 103
BAILEY BOWLING, FATHER OF 15, DIES AFTER WEEK'S ILLNESS
Bailey Bowling, possibly the oldest citizen of Johnson county, died at the home of a son at Van Lear Wednesday of this week. According to his children he was 103 years old, having been born in the year 1837. Mr. Bowling was a Virginian and came to the Big Sandy Valley with his parents when a child. He had in good health until a week before his death. His aged wife died 7 months ago. She, too, was near the century mark. The aged man was the father of 15 children, 13 of whom survive. Those living are: P.A. Bowling, Johns Creek; Joe Bowling, Van Lear; John Bowling, Mance Bowling and Amos Bowling, Beaver Creek; Lige Bowling, Pike county; Boyd Bowling, W. Va.; Mrs. Fan Pendleton and Mrs. Rissie Dawson, Daniels Creek; Mrs. Paulina Blair and Mrs. Clarinda Ward, Johns Creek, and Mrs. Nancy Kessenger, of Paintsville. Funeral and burial took place at Van Lear in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. The Paintsville Herald Thursday February 15, 1940
   
DEATH CERTIFICATE INFORMATION Baily BOWLING Date of Death: February 14, 1940 Place of Death: Van Lear Johnson Co Ky Cause of Death: Gangreene of right foot (Contibutory causes: Frostbite & Senility) Sex: Male Age: 103 Birth Date: Not Listed Place of Birth: Morgan Co Ky Father: Henry BOWLIN born Virginia Mother: Nellie BOWLIN born Virginia Informant: Joe BOWLING Burial: Daniel's Creek (note: Baily BOWLIN's mother was Elender BLANKENSHIP. Henry BOWLIN married Elender BLANKENSHIP March 1835 Tazewell Co Va)
  
CONLEY, Mary Elizabeth (Salyer)
1940
Funeral Services Held Wednesday For Mrs. Mary E. Conley
Funeral services were held at the home of her son, Buell Conley, on Preston Street, for Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Conley, 75, who died at the Conley home Monday after noon at about 3 o’clock. Death was the result of a cerebral hemorrhage which occurred January 31.  Rev. W. H. McKenzie of the United Baptist Church, conducted the services.  The body was taken to the family cemetery near Flat Gap for burial. Mrs. Conley was the widow of the late Stephen Conley who preceded her in death 17 years ago. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church for forty years. She is survived by the following children; Lonza Conley, Staffordsville; Proctor and Buell Conley, Paintsville; Mrs. Sandord Stapleton, Kerz; Mrs. Lora Sturgill, Sciotoville, Ohio; and Arzie Conley, Jenkins. She is also survived by two brothers, Lum and T. A. Salyer, Flat Gap and one sister, Mrs. Laurina McKenzie, cable, Ohio. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-8-1940
  
CONLEY, Milton F.
1868-1940
M.F. CONLEY DIES AT LOUISA FEBRUARY 29
FORMER PUBLISHER AND BANKER PASSES AT HOME OF SISTER
Milton F. Conley, founder of the Big Sandy News and former cashier of the Louisa National Bank, died at 5 a.m., Thursday, February 29, 1940, at the home of his sister Mrs. O.C. McDougle, at Louise.  He was 71 years old. Physicans attributed his death  to congestive heart failure.  He was stricken with the ailment on Friday at the McDougle home.  Mr. Conley had recently lived in Roanoke, Va., but came to Louisa ten days before his death to visit his sister. The former editor, who once owned a half interest in the Ashland Daily Independent was born in Johnson County in 1868, the son of the late A.J. & Elizabeth Conley. He went to Louisa when a young  man where he spent the greater part of his life.  In 1885 he and Boyd Ferguson purchased the Lawrence County Index from Col. W.O. Johnson and changed its name to the Big Sandy News.  Later Mr. Conley purchased the interest of his partner and continued as it’s publisher until 1935. The Big Sandy News is still being published and is probably the oldest business in Lawrence county. Mr. Conley was a prominent Democrat.  In 1904 he aided in organizing the Louisa National Bank and was cashier until 1934. He served Kentucky as chairman of the State Board of Charities and Collection at Frankford for six years, four under Governor Fields, and two under Governor Sampson. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Willia Burchett Conley; two daughters, Mrs. B.H. Maben, Roanoke, VA., and Mrs. R.P. Wood of Chicago, IL.; one son N.B. Conley of Plainfield, NJ., and his sister, Mrs. McDougle. Services were held at the McDougle home at Louisa, with Bishop UVW Darlington, of Huntington, WV., in charge. Burial was made in Pine Hill Cemeteries at Louisa. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-7-1940
  
FYFFE, Arbie
1940
KEATON YOUTH, 15, VICTIM OF BLOOD POISONING
Arbie Fyffe, 16, of Keaton, this county, died at the Paintsville Clinic at 4 o'clock Tuesday afternoon (1940) after a week's illness from blood poisoning. Young Fyffe, a senior in the Flat Gap High School, injured his arm while skating on the ice. Although the skin was unbroken, the youth developed blood poisoning which ended in his death. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Parlie Fyffe. The Paintsville Herald Thursday February 22, 1940
   
GAMBILL, R. B.
1856-1940
R. B. GAMBILL LONG ILLNESS FATAL TO THEALKA MAN
R. B. Gambill Dies February 10 At Age of 83 Years R. B. Gambill aged Thealka citizen, died at the home of his son there Saturday, February 10, following a long illness. Mr. Gambill was 83 years of age, having been born September 18, 1856. Mr. Gambill was a native of Blaine, Lawrence county, but had made his home with his son at Thealka for some time. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday, February 11, in charge of Rev. Fillmore Gambill. Burial was made in the Wells Cemetary in Bridgeford, in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. He is survived by five children, Lawrence Gambill, Thealka, Hubert Gambill, Asheville, N. C. ; Merrit Gambill, Middletown, Ohio; Raymond Gambill and Mrs. J. F. Crutcher, of Pensacola, Florida. All the children were present for the funeral and burial. In addition to the children he is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Polly Evans, Ashland, and Mrs. Aggie Woods, of Los Angeles, California and sixteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 2-15-1940
  
GIBBS, Minnie (Blevins)
1940
MINNIE GIBBS
Johnson Woman Dies Near Ashland
Mrs. Minnie Gibbs, wife of Frank Gibbs, died at her home at Pollard Crossing, near Ashland, last week, after an illness of several weeks. She was 53 years of age and was a native of Johnson County. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral services and burial took place at Ashland. Besides her husband she is survived by four sons, Arzie, Willie, Ora, and Junior Gibbs, all of Ashland; three daughters, Mrs. Mary Rice, Mrs. Dorothy Newman, and Miss Berna Ellen Gibbs, all of Ashland, four brothers, Sam, Lindsey, and Roy Belvins, of Betsy Layne, and Troy Belvins, of Ashland; three sisters, Mrs. Wannie Brown, of Betsy Layne, and Mrs. Bernie Salyers and Mrs. Alice Belvins of Paintsville. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 2-8-1940
  
GRIM, Susan Elizabeth (George)
1852-1940
Death Claims Aged County Woman
Mrs. Susan Elizabeth (George) Grim died at the home of her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Shady Grim, at Nippa, Thursday, February 8. Mrs. Grim was 88 years old having been born in 1852. In 1873 she was united in marriage to Wallace Grim and to this union were born twelve children, seven of whom have preceded her in death.  the five children surviving are Bascom Grim, Nippa; Mark Grim, Portsmouth, Ohio; Mrs. Ross Castle, Ashland; Mrs. Asa Blair and Mrs. Ed Pelphrey, of Van Lear. She had been a member of the church since 1976. In addition to her children and grandchildren she is survived by a large number of other relatives. Funeral and burial took place at Nippa in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-15-1940
  
HAGER, Bennie
1940
DEATH CLAIMS WEST VAN LEAR CITIZEN
Member of Prominent Family Dies After Long Illness
Bennie Hager, 23, died Wednesday morning at his home at West Van Lear, after an extended illness. Mr. Hager was a member of a prominent Johnson County family and leaves many relatives and friends who mourn his passing. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Hager of Hager Hill. His mother died a few years ago. Beside his father who now resides at West Van Lear he is survived by his widow, Mrs. Ruth Whitaker Hager, and one son, Francis Sterling Hager. He is survived by the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. Arch Fitch, Paintsville; James Hager, Wheelwright, Winfrey Hager, Columbus, OH, and Richard and Ernestine Hager, of Hager Hill. Funeral services were held at the Missionary Baptist Church in Paintsville, Thursday afternoon at 2 o’clock, in charge is the pastor, Rev. Sam Sloan. Burial was made in the family cemetery on the old Hager farm at Hager Hill in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEB 8, 1940
  
HALL, W. C. (Calloway)
1940
W.C. (Calloway)  Hall Was Teacher Here For 23 Years
Relatives in this county have received news of the death of W.C. (Calloway) Hall of Portsmouth, Ohio which occurred at his home there Feb. 1, 1940. Mr. Hall was 63 years old and was born in Johnson County. He received his education under such educators as J.G. Talbert, Fred A. Vaughn, John B. Wheatley. After qualifying himself as a teacher he taught in the Johnson County schools for 23 years. He served as County Examiner and was County School Supervisor for one year. He also held a number of like positions. Mr. Hall moved with his family to Portsmouth in December 1919 where he excepted a position as a clerk at the Wheeling Steel Mill of that city which he held until his death. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Elizabeth (Williams) Hall; one son, Carl Hall, Wheelersburg, Ohio, one daughter, Millie Hall, at home; two brothers, U.S. Hall, Ashland, Wiley Hall, Deputy Sheriff, Winfred, this county, and one sister, Raussie Hall, also of Winfred, in addition to many relatives and friends in Johnson County, who will regret to learn of his passing. Funeral services were held at the Emrick Funeral Home at Portsmouth, and burial was in the Memorial Burial Park near Wheelersburg, Ohio. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEBRUARY 29, 1940
  
HOPKINS, Martha
1940
MISS HOPKINS PASSES HERE AFTER STROKE
Teacher and Church Worker For Many Years
Miss Martha Hopkins died at the City View Hospital here at 8 o'clock Thursday evening, Feburary 15, 1940 after three weeks illness. Miss Hopkins, long a teacher in this section, suffered a paralytic stroke at Catlettsburg but was later removed to the local hospital. Miss Hopkins was approximately 80 years old and had spent the greater part of her life as an educator. Funeral services were held at the Mayo Memorial Church Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, with Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor, conducting the services. Burial was in the Wells cemetery in Bridgeford. Miss Hopkins was born in Nashville, Tennessee, where her girlhood days were spent. She graduated from Peabody College. For a number of years she taught in Ward Seminary, which later became Ward Belmont College. For several years Miss Hopkins jointly with Mrs. A. B. Hyde became the head of Salue College in Murfreesboro, Tenn., where a wonderful work was accomplished among girls and young women and many poor girls were given the advantages of an education which otherwise would have been impossible. During the World War Miss Hopkins and Mrs. Hyde sold this institution and became teachers in Marris Harvey College at Barboursville, W. Va., where they remained four years. Miss Hopkins came to the John C. C. College here in 1921 and taught in that institution until it was Paintsville since that time. A very unusual friendship and partnership existed between Miss Hopkins and Mrs. Hyde for 35 years, and together in that time they have touched the lives of literally thousands of young people and have assisted many financially unable to secure an education. Miss Hopkins was a woman of unusual and outstanding characteristics. A lifelong member of the Methodist Church , in which she was an outstanding and untiring worker, she was efficient in every line of church work and could even fill the pulpit acceptably in the absence of her pastors. She was often called the "assistant pastor." She had a mother heart in her love for her friends and all young people and children, but in standing for the right and fighting wrong she had the courage and firmness of the strongest man. A good woman and a useful citizen had gone and Paintsville will miss her, but she will go on living in the lives of those she has so wonderfully influenced. Mrs. Hyde has received the following card from Prof. H. F. Copeland, of Syracuse, N. Y., a former teacher in John C. C. Mayo College. :Dear Mrs. Hyde; In a recent Herald I saw a word about the serious illness of Miss Hopkins. this word of sympathy to  you--greatly concerned as you must be. "A thought that came to me this afternoon worth passing on; As I walked in brilliant sunshine along a country road, great drifts of dazzling white snow on either side, I thought of blue violets slumbering beneath drifts--violets that in a few short weeks I'll pick again. Whittier's words came to me: Life is ever lord of death, and love can never lose its own. Storms as we have lately had, may rage and snow pile high--but those fragile violets will yet emerge, life triumphant over wintry death. "Death could not hold Him!" someone said of Christ. Nor can it hold us. It mey lay low these fragile tents of clay, but the life within  us. It may lay low these fragile tents of clay, but the life within will rise again triumphant! "Born like Him, like Him we rise, over the cross, the grave, the skies." Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-22-1940
  
HOWARD, Joe
1940
JOE HOWARD IS VICTIM OF HEART ATTACK
Ex-Service Man Dies At Lowmansville February 23
Joe Howard, age 62, died at his home near Lowmansville on February 23. He had been in ill health for more than a year a sufferer from heart trouble. He was married to Phoebe Hall who died in 1911. They had six children, three girls and three boys, all of whom survive. They are Jarvey Howard, Columbia, Tennessee; Steve Howard, Jackson, Ohio; Dalpha Howard, Paintsville; Mrs. Dock Reed, Portsmouth, Ohio; Mrs. Jeff Reed, Paintsville, and Mrs. G. B. VanHoose, Manila. He also leaves three brothers and one sister, Steve Howard, Win; Jim Howard, Wheelersburg; Wiley Howard, Portsmouth, Ohio, and Mary Lemaster, Morgan County, Ky. He was an ex-service man, enlisting in the regular army in 1912. He was stationed in Mexico in 1916 where he recieved an honorable discharge. Mr. Howard was well known in Paintsville where he resided for some time. Funeral services were held on Sunday, Feburary 25, at the home of his brother, Jim Howard, at Wheelersburg, Ky., and burial was in the family near his wife's side. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company had charge of funeral arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-07-1940
  
LEEK, Emma (Spradlin)
1940
PROMINENT EAST POINT WOMAN DIES
Mrs. Emma Leek, 78, Passes At Home Of Son February 22 East Point, KY – Mrs. Emma Spradlin Leek, age 78, died at the home of her son here, Shelton Leek, Thursday, February 22, from pneumonia. Mrs. Leek had been in ill health for some time. Recently she fell and sustained a broken hip, later taking pneumonia which ended in death. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. George Stambaugh and Mrs. Jack Daniel, both of this place; two sons, John and Shelton Leek, both of East Point; two sisters, Mrs. C.H. Burke and Mrs. John W. Music, East Point, and three brothers, Len Spradlin, West Van Lear; Sherd Spradlin, Millstone, KY, and Tom Spradling, of Oklahoma, besides a large number of other relatives and friends. Her husband and one daughter preceded her in death several years age. Funeral services were held Friday evening at 2 o’clock at the Church of Christ, Rev. S.C. Honeycutt conducting the services. Mrs. Leek was a member of the Church of Christ for more than fifty years. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEB 29, 1940
  
SPRADLIN, Ruthnell
1940
Victim of Burns Dies Saturday at Local Hospital
Ruthnell Spradlin, 11 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Spradlin, of Left Barnetts Creek, died Saturday at the Golden Rule Hospital from burns which she received three weeks before, when her clothes caught fire from an open grate. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday, in charge of Rev. Thurman Blair and Rev. Prater Blair. Burial at Denver in charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 8, 1940 The death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Spradlin and claimed their daughter Ruth La Nell, about 12 years of age. Her death was caused by burns resulting from her clothing catching fire. She was laid to rest in the family cemetery near the graves of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Sant Spradlin. She leaves to mourn their loss her father two sisters, step mother, stepsister and brothers, besides a host of relatives and friends. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 8, 1940
  
STAGGS, Charlie
1940
Paintsville Herald
Thursday
March 3, 1940
THEALKA MAN 55, DIES AFTER LONG ILLNESS
CHARLIE STAGGS WAS RESIDENT OF MINING TOWN 26 YEARS
Charlie Staggs, 55 years old, died early Thursday morning, February 29, at his home at Thealka. Mr. Staggs was a good citizen and had been a citizen and had been a resident of the mining town for 26 years. He was born at Willard, Carter County, KY. February 21, 1885. He was married to Ora Murray, of this county, who survives him. He is also survived by two brothers, Allen Staggs, of Estill, KY; Dan Staggs, Wilkinson, W.Va., and one sister, Mrs. Mima Dale, Rushville, Indiana. He is also survived by seven children, Mrs. Onie Gallagher and Clyde Staggs, both of Ashland; Joe, Willard, Irene, Junior and Edmond at home. Funeral services were held from the home Sunday in charge of Rev. Millard Vanhoose, Rev. Calvin, Rev. F. S. Vanhoose and Rev. Scott Craft of the Freewill Baptist Church. Burial was made in the Murphy Cemetery at Thealka in charge of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Funeral Co.
  
TEASS, John
1872-1940
JOHN TEASS DIES FRIDAY AFTER STROKE
Wealthy Landowner Passes At Age of 67 Years
John W. Teass, well known Johnson county citizen, died at the home of his half-brother, Harry Davis, two miles west of Paintsville, last Friday, February 23. He was 67 years old. Mr. Teass had been in ill health for the past 10 years. his condition, however, was not serious until he suffered a stroke of paralysis on Wednesday. Mr. Teass came from a prominent Johnson County family. He was a son of the late William and Jane Martha (Rule) Teass. He was the owner of considerable real estate. He owned Teass Branch, a farm of several hundred acres which he inherited from his grandfather, the late Wallis Rule. He was never married. Survivng are two half brothers, Harry Davis, of Paintsville, and Walter Davis, of Phoenix, Arizona; one half sister, Mrs. W. l. Gambill, Ashland, and four nieces, Mrs. John E. Burns, Miss Martha Alice Buckingham, and Mrs. John W. Burns, all of Ashland, and Mrs. F. E. Browning, of Frankfort. His only full sister, Mrs. John E. Buckingham, died at Frankfort two years ago. Funeral services were held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Davis at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon. Rev. H. E. Trent, pastor of the M. E. Church, conducted the services. He was assisted by Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church. Burial was made in the Davis cemetery on the Davis farm. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company had charge. A quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. Delmas, J. Earl Walker and Miss Gertrude Patrick, accompanied by Mrs. Robert Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-29-1940 John William Teass 1872-1940 John William Teass was born in Johnson County, Kentucky, March 29, 1872.  He was the son of William R. and Martha Jane Teass.  His father was a native of West Virginia and member of a prominent family of that state.  His mother, before her marriage to Mr. Teass was Martha Jane Sule, a member of a prominent Johnson County family.  During his childhood and most of his mature life, he lived on the Teass farm (formerly known as the Rule farm) near Paintsville, Kentucky.  During his youth he worked on the home farm and attended the public schools of the county from which he obtained a good education. The occupational interest nearest the heart of John Teass was farming.  He was a progressive farmer and stock raiser.  Although he had several opportunities to move to urban centers, he preferred to remain on the land he loved.  The sight of well-cultivated, growing crops was the source of much enjoyment to him.  He took great pride in growing purebred stock and making improvements that added to the appearance and usefulness of his farm.  If farming is a task, it was an enjoyable task to John Teass.  To him it was a livelihood and a way of life.  During the last few years of his life, when physical infirmities confined him to his room, he still attended to the management of his farm and enjoyed going over the minutest details of work to be done. In addition to his farming interests Mr. Teass was a successful business man.  He engaged in the lumber industry and helped to organize and operate the Teass and Davis Lumber Company which worked and marketed much of the timber in Johnson County.  He participated in the development of the coal industry in this section, and was connected with the banking business from its beginning in Johnson County until the time of his death.  In his quiet, unostentatious way he played an important role in the business and industrial development of Johnson County and Eastern Kentucky. Although he participated in large affairs, Mr. Teass was always approachable by all who sought his counsel or aid.  He was kind, and patient with all those (and they were many) who came to him for advice and help.  He made no display of his assistance to others.  In most cases only the beneficiaries knew of it.  But many today remember John Teass gratefully for accommodations rendered. He was quiet unobtrusive man.  He never sought public office, public recognition, or public acclaim.  He preferred the type of quiet rural life which he lived.  And throughout this life he kept the even tenor of his way, pausing here and there to perform numerous, unobserved kindnesses for his fellowmen. Mr. Teass is survived by two brothers, Harry Davis, of Paintsville, and Walter Davis of Phoenix, Arizona, and one sister Mr. W. L. Gambill, of Ashland, Kentucky.  A sister, June Davis, and a brother, Roy Davis preceded him in death several years ago.  His full sister, Nola Teass Buckingham, preceded him in death two years ago. During the last few years of his life he made his home with his brother, Harry Davis, and Mrs. Davis.  During much of this time he was confined to his room.  He bore his confinement and suffering cheerfully and until the end manifest his usual interest in his own affairs and affairs of general interest.  The end came Friday, February 23, 1940. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-14-1940
  
 WHEELER, Columbus B.
 1940
DEATH CLAIMS PRESTONSBURG ATTORNEY
 C. B. Wheeler, 70, Dies December 31, 1940 Victim of Flu
 C. B. Wheeler, 70, prominent Eastern Kentucky attorney and former circuit judge, died at his home at Prestonsburg, on Dec. 31.  He was stricken with flu on Saturday previous to his death which developed into pneumonia. Funeral services were conducted at Prestonsburg after which the body was taken to Winifred, this county, and laid to rest in the family cemetery on the old homestead farm. The following obituary was read at the funeral which gives a short history of his life: The foundation of American civilization is the home erected and maintained through the blood and tears comingled with the joy and hope of our sturdy, God-fearing independent citizens. This is the ultimate source, and as long as it remains uncorrupted, it is the indestructible hope of our civilization: and our free American instutitions.   Every successful, loyal and faithful home-maker in this broad land of ours is an uncrowned king or queen whose happiness and efficiency should be the chief concern of our government, since it is their contribution to human society that insures her security and perpetuity.  Ever since God said "Let us make Man in our Image," the home has become a sacred institution fostered by the favor, the beneficence and protection of Almighty God; and despite the sinister forces of evil now rampant throughout certain portions of the world, this nucleus of civilization, while it recognizes and respects its responsibility to the Almighty, will be indestructible and invincible and will ultimately prevail. Of such was the humble but God-fearing home of Martin V. and Sarah Justice Wheeler erected and maintained against the green-walled hills of Johnson County, who produced and reared to manhood and womanhood a family of eleven children--eight boys and three girls, the oldest whom was the subject of this sketch, the late Honorable Columbus Borders Wheeler, who was born on November 2, 1870; a few days more than 70 years of age.  His father proceded him in death on March 10, 1923, but his mother still survives and will be ninety-five years of age in May of this year, and is probably the oldest living citizen in Johnson County.  His first wife was Elizabeth Walters, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wince Walters of Johnson County, Kentucky and to this union were born one son, W. H. Wheeler, now of Prestonsburg, Kentucky, and four daughters, (two of whom, Esta and Zella Wheeler are now dead), Mrs. Harvey Bixler, now residing at Frankfort, Kentucky, and Mrs. Sterling Berger of Catlettsburg, Kentucky.  His first wife died at the early age of twenty-seven years.  His second wife and surviving widow is Mrs. Grace Evelyn Martin Wheeler, (daughter of Joel C. and Minnie Martin of Floyd County, Kentucky) to whom he was married on December 11, 1918. Judge C. B. Wheeler (as he was familiarly known) was admitted to the bar in Johnson County more than fifty years ago, ever since which time and uninterruptedly until a short time before his death he practiced his profession and engaged in no other profession or business, for a livelihood during that time.  He was elected as a member of the General Assembly of Kentucky, form the legislative district composed of Johnson and Martin counties, in the year of 1896 and served for a period of two years.  He practiced his profession at the Johnson County bar consistently energetically and honorably until about twenty-five years ago when he moved to Floyd County and located at Prestonsburg, Kentucky, where he practiced his profession with the same fidelity and consistency until a short time before his death, except that during this time he was, by the voters of the 31st Judicial District (composed of Floyd and Knott counties), elevated and elected to the position of Circuit Judge of that district, and served as such with signal credit to himself and his country from 1928 to 1931. The writer's first impression of Judge C. H. Wheeler was at a time when Judge Wheeler had just entered the legal profession at Paintsville, Kentucky, but at the time well-grounded in and equipped by the fundamental principles of his profession, and the writer of these humble obsecuies was studying to enter that profession and they entered into a mutual understanding and arrangement under which the writer gave Judge Wheeler free lessons in Latin and Judge Wheeler gave the writer free lessons in law.  Since that time, his ability as a lawyer was never questioned.  No member of the legal profession ever regarded his profession more seriously nor had any higher regard for the ethics of his profession than Judge C. B. Wheeler. He was no quibbler; but what gave him more concern in his profession were the fundamental and essential principles of the law as applied to human conduct.  He did not believe in allowing the barren technicalities of the law to interfere with or defeat the fundamental rights of humanity as expressed in and guaranteed by the fundamental and statutory laws of our land. There is no man who ever engaged in the practice of law, either for him or against him but still recalls that he had a worthy, able and pugnicious opponent or a loyal, able and consistant co-worker.  His professional life was a litteral dedication to, and personification of the great, fundamental, undelying principles of the body of the law safeguarding and protecting the rights of human conduct.  In each and all of these he conscientiously and consistantly believed, and fought for to the end of his career, and to the honor and perpetuation of his name as a member of the great profession he served for more than one- half a century. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 19, 1941
  
WITTEN, White
1883-1940
WHITE WITTEN DIES FEB. 11 IN MICHIGAN
Former Johnson Man Succumbs After Operation
White Witten, born at Staffordsville, this county, March 24, 1883, died February 11 following an operation at the St. Joseph Hospital, Michigan. He was the son of Frank Witten and Arminta (Butler) Witten.  At an early age he moved with his parents to Mancelona, Michigan, later going to Flint where he was united in marriage to Miss Bessie Morris.  To this union were born seven children.  His wife and six children survive him. The are Barton, Frank, Bill, John and Robert, all at home, and one daughter, Mrs. Arthur Perry; one brother, Frank Witten, Jr., and three sisters, Mrs. George May, Mesa, Arizona; Mrs. O. B. Shaw and Mrs. May Dalton, of Flint, Mich. He was preceded in death by his father, mother and two brothers, Barton and Robert.  Besides his immediate family he leaves a host of relatives and friends to mourn his passing.  Mr. Witten was a member of the Christian Church, and although had long been a resident of another state his request was that he be brought back to his native hills for his final resting place. The body, accompanied by his family and brother, reached Paintsville Wednesday, February 14, and was taken to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Meade where funeral services were conducted by the Reverend Spurgeon Honeycutt. The Witten family has issued the following card of thanks: "We wish to thank our friends and relatives for the sympathy and beautiful floral offerings extended at the death of our beloved husband and father, White Witten.  Witten Family." Paintsville Herald Thursday February 22, 1940
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