1944    

JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
  HISTORICAL  & GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
PAINTSVILLE, KENTUCKY

 
OBITUARY WEBSITE
  

1944
 

  JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
RELATED OBITUARIES
1944
 
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JANUARY - 1944


ARMS, James
1944
Aged Denver Man
Buried Sunday
Funeral services were held Sunday, January 16, 1944, at Denver for James Arms, 78 year old citizen, who died Friday, January 14, 1944, at the home of a son, John Arms, in East Point. A number of children and a host of friends survive. The burial was under the direction of Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-20-1944
BALDRIDGE, Leo
1944
Son Of Former Resident Killed In Italy
Word has been received that Leo Baldridge, son of Mrs. E. L Baldridge, 2521 Columbus Blvd., Tucson, Ariz., was killed in action in Italy on January 5.  He was in the First Armored Division of the American Fifth Army. Mrs. Baldridge, a former resident of Paintsville, is the widow of Eddie L. Baldridge.  She had lived in Massilon, Ohio, until a few weeks ago when she moved to Arizona. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3 Feb 1944
BLAIR, Sherman
1871-1944
SHERMAN BLAIR
Last rites were held Monday afternoon at the West Van Lear Christian Church for Sherman Blair, who passed away Saturday night, January 15, after a few days illness Revs. S.C. Honeycutt, Auxier, and Adrian Davis, Colista, officiated at the funeral which was under the direction of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Co. Deceased was born to the late Hayden and Mary Horn Blair in the Oil Springs section on February 26, 1871. He was married to Missouri Jane Webb of Colista on January 29, 1890. Their children are Mrs. Marcus Adams, Van Lear, Tom Blair and Mrs. Waldbridge Hall, West Van Lear, Mrs. D. Blair, city,  Gordon Blair, Jenkens, Francis Blair, U.S. Army, Garland Blair, deceased. A brother, John Blair, Colista survives. Mr. Blair was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church, a farmer during the earlier years of his life, he had made his home at West Van Lear for the past fifteen or twenty years. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JANUARY 20, 1944
BLANKENSHIP, Beecher
1944
Hager Hill Youth Killed In Italy
The death of Pvt. Beecher Blankenship was reported last week by the War Department to his widow, Mrs. Dorlen F. Blankenship, Hager Hill. Pvt. Blankenship , 23, died in Italy on January 12, his death resulting from an injury recieved when he fell while performing military duty, loosening gravel from the walls of a quarry. He had entered the services in September 1942, and had been overseas five or six months. He was wwith Corps of Engineers. Prior to his entrance into the army, he had been with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company in Indiana. His parents, Mr. aand Mrs. Wylie Blankenship, formerly of Hager Hill, now resise in Cincinnati. Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-27-1944
BUTCHER, Harmon
1944
Daniels Creek Man Succumbs
Harmon Butcher, 72 years old, died Jan. 29, at his home on Daniels Creek following an illness of two weeks from pneumonia. He was a son of the late Lewis Butcher and was related to all the Butchers in this county. He is survived by his wife and several sons and daughters all who reside near the old home place. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the home with Rev. Grover Fannin officiating. Paintsville Herald Thursday 02-10-1944
CANTER, Mrs. W. I.
1944
Wife Of Former Pastor Succumbs
Friends of Paintsville have been notified of the death of Mrs. W. I. Canter, wife of the late Rev. W. I. Canter, pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church some years ago. Death came to Mrs. Canter January 5 at her home at Clarksburg, W. Va. Surviving are three daughters, Hazel, who made her home with her mother, Mrs. L. H. Meredith of Ashland, and Mrs. Frank Hopkins, Clarksburg, and a son, Julian Canter, Frankfort, Ky. Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-27-1944
CONLEY, John Milton
1862-1944
OBITUARY
John Milton Conley was born in Floyd County, Kentucky on February 27, 1862.  He was the son of Matt and Elizabeth Colvin Conley, early Kentucky pioneer settlers who came from North Carolina. He spent the first 18 years of his life in the county of his birth with his parents and 3 brothers, Pierce, Clark and Jim, and his 4 sisters, Alice, Sula, Addie and Sarah.   All of who have preceded him in death with the exception of one brothers, Clark, who lives at Oil Springs, Ky. In 1880 he came to Johnson County, Kentucky, where he was a prominent teacher for several years. In the year of 1884 he met and was married to Marry Etta Woods.  To this union were born nine children, Forrest T. Philadelphia, Pa; Harry, OF Bloomfield, Ky.; Willie, Door, Michigan; Everett, Hobart, Ralph, Ethyl, Lillie, and Ivel all of Paintsville, Ky. At an early age he was converted and became a member of the United Baptist Church at Fishtrap, KY. Shortly after his marriage he established his home at Staffordsville where he was a prosperous merchant and farmer.  He also operated a sawmill and engaged in the lumber business. His good wife preceded him in death, having passed away December 13, 1933.   About six years ago, John Milt, as his neighbors affectionately knew him, suffered a stroke from which he never fully recovered. He patiently bore his pain and suffering until his heavenly master saw fit to call him home at 7:18 Sunday evening, January 16, 1944. He leaves to survive him his nine children, 46 grandchildren, and 27 great grandchildren, and a host of friends and neighbors. In the passing of this good man we feel that our loss is Heaven’s gain, that these children have lost a wonderful father and the community one of its best citizens. ATTEND CONLEY FUNERAL Out-of-town relatives attending the funeral Tuesday of John Milton Conley were his sons, B. H. Conley, Bloomfield, Ky., and W. E. Conley and Mrs. Coaley, Door, Michigan, grandchildren, Mr. And Mrs. Garlin LeMaster, and Robert E. Conley, Ashland, Hubert Conley, Philadelphia, Hobert Picklesimer and Miss Anne Picklesimer. Baltimore, and Cpl. Buell Daniel, Drew Field, Fla., and Nephews and nieces.  Rev. Sherman Woods, Williamson, WVa. Edgar Hackworth and Cecil Hackworth, Portsmouth, Ohio. And Mrs. Ollie Hill and Lennie Conley, Bonanza, KY. Paintsville Herald Thursday 20 Jan 1944
CONLEY, Lindsay
1944
Oil Springs Man Succumbs
Lindsay Conley, 34 year old farmer of Oil Springs passed away on January 29. He had been critically ill since December 14 and an abdominal operation had been performed in an effort to save his life. The funeral was held Monday afternoon at the Holiness Church on Dry Branch, with the Prest9on Funeral Home in charge. The son of M. L. and Susan Meade Conley, both deceased. Mr. Conley had married Esta Blanton, eight years ago. They hasve three children, Harold Morris, Mary Sue and Ellen Louise.  He is also survived by a sister, Mrs. Ennie Blanton, and a brother, Francis Marion Conley. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-3-1944
CONLEY, Millard V.
1944
MILLARD V. CONLEY
Death claimed Millard V. Conley, 79 year old citizen of Rock House, on Sunday morning.  He had been ill three weeks, his death being caused by pneumonia. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the home with Rev. Willie Horne of Auxier and Rev. Scott Castle in charge. Mr. Conley was a prominent farmer of his section. His wife, the former Louise Johnson, died seven years ago. He was the son of James Haden and Ellen Rice Conley, now deceased. Sons and daughters surviving include Dr. Everett Conley, Cleveland, Ohio, Mrs. Carmel Treadway, Springfield, Mo., Brook and Leck Conley, Staffordsville, and Mrs. Norma Ferguson.  Other survivors are; brothers, Lindsey Conley, Ashland, Fonzo and Charlie, Staffordsville, and Frank J. Conley, city; and sisters, Mrs. Louise Reynolds, Barnetts Creek, Mrs. Genoa Conley, Staffordsville, and Nrs. Virgie Turner and Mrs. Sola Primble, city. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-13-1944
DAVIS, Mollie Belle
1944
Elderly Bridgford Woman Succumbs
Death claimed Mrs. Mollie Belle Davis, 75 year old woman of Bridgford early Saturday morning, January 1. Mrs. Davis  who lived alone, was found critically ill by neighbors the day before her death. Although medical help was summoned immediately, she died within a few hours after being found. She was born in Indianapolis Ind. Her church membership was with the Methodist Church at Middlesboro, KY., and she was also an Eastern Star member of this city. Her husband was the late John Fisler Davis, mine superintendent in the coalfields. He passed away in 1924. The only surviving relatives are a niece, Mrs. Mitchell Brown, Columbus, Ohio and a nephew, Lawrence Cline, Chillicothe, Ohio, who were not present for the funeral. Services were held at the Jones Funeral Home Tuesday morning by Rev. R. R. Rose, after which burial was made in the Wells Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-6-1944
DEMPSEY, L. A.
1879-1944
Inez Merchant Died January 4
L.A.. Dempsey, a prominent merchant of Inez died January 4, 1944 in a Huntington hospital after an illness of two weeks. Funeral services were held Friday, January 7, 1944 at the Methodist Church in Inez, with the pastor, Rev. Sheppherd officiating and burial was made at Warfield, Ky. in the Dempsey Family Cemetery. The Heck Funeral Home of Milton, W.Va. was in charge. Mr. Dempsey, familairy known as "Buck" was born October 22, 1879, a son of the late Joseph B. Dempsey and Mary Ann White Dempsey, and spent the greater part of his life in Martin County where he owned and operated stores at Inez and Warfield. He was county court clerk of Martin County a few years ago, was again in the merchandise business in Inez at the time of his death. Surviving are his wife, Mary J. Dempsey, and five daughters and two sons; Mrs. Marcia D. Vinson, Charleston, W.Va.; Mrs. Lucia Parker, Ceredo, W. Va., Mrs. Garnett Bonda, Carmel, Calif., Mrs. Virginia Wells and Mary Ann at home; Claude E. Dempsey, Inez, and Jack Dean at home. He is also survived by four grandchildren and the following sister and two brothers; Mrs. Fanny Ward, Inez, J.B. Dempsey, Inez and A.E. Dempsey, Warfield. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JANUARY 20, 1944
FYFFE, Mrs. James
1944
MOTHER OF LARGE FAMILY SUCCUMBS
Death took Mrs. James Fyffe of Keaton early Saturday morning.  She had been critically ill the past five weeks.  She was the mother of ten children,  Mrs. Margaret Lyon, Mrs. Charley Bailey, Barn Rock, Mrs. Merida Wright, Mrs. Hood Wallin, Mrs. Herman Kelly, Mrs. Hurshell Conley, of Keaton, Mrs. Isaac Ferguson of Moon, Mrs. Lonnie Hill, of Relief, Noah and Shelby of Portsmouth, who survives besides her grief stricken husband.  Also mourning her passing are forty-three grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends. Mrs. Fyffe was loved by all who knew her.  Always she lent a helping hand, giving kind words of encouragement to those in distress.  During her illness her children and friends were constantly at her bedside alleviating in every possible way her suffering.  She had been a member of the Upper Keaton Baptist Church for many years and will be sadly missed in the church. Services were held at the home Sunday by Rev. Tommy Bailey of Keaton and Rev. Lonza Reed of Flat Gap.  She was laid to rest on the hill overlooking the home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 02/03/1944
GAISKI, Walter
1917-1944
Sgt. Walter Gaiski of the chemical warfare division of the U.S. Army was killed on January 26 in action in Italy the War Department has notified his mother, Mrs. Francis Ohemeluvski, Van Lear. Born on Aug. 17, 1917, Sergeant Gaiski attended Van Lear High School, later being employed by the Consolidation Coal Company as brakeman for seven years. The company considered him an excellent workman. He volunteered in the army on March 9, 1942, leaving Paintsville on the 16th of that month. Shortly before going overseas nine months ago he was home for a furlough. His father, John Gaiski, is an inside track man for Consolidation. The day after Sergeant Gaiski’s death, on January 27, a letter written by him on Christmas Day was printed in the Herald. Though we did not know him personally,  from his letters to the editor published at various times in the Herald, we know that he was a brave young man and did not hesitate when called upon to make the supreme sacrifice. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 3-9-1944
HALL, Morton
1944
WINFRED We are sorry to report the death of Mr. Morton Hall, which occurred Jan. 7, 1944. The family has the sympathy of the entire community. He leaves to morn his going the following brothers and sisters; Bert Hall, Paintsville, Mrs. Alice Green and Mrs. Matilda Davis, Chandlerville, Mrs. Poe Lemaster, Kerz, and Jason at home. Morton was a veteran of World War One. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of the burial. January 13, 1944 Thursday Paintsville Herald
HOLBROOK, Ellen (Williams)
1944
A two weeks illness from influenza resulted in the death of Ellen Holbrook, 74 year old resident of Relief, on Monday, January 10, 1944.  Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. Boren Williams, this county.  In 1898 she was married to William Holbrook and had three sons, Ernest, Courtney and Harold.  She as a member of the New Regular Baptist Church.  The funeral was held at the home Wednesday under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. The Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-13-1944
HOMAN, Ralph Moore
1944 R.M. HOMAN DIES IN PIKEVILLE
The remains of Ralph Moore Homan, 70 year old store manager of the Beaver Coal and Mining Company, Drift, who died Monday morning at the Methodist Hospital in Pikeville, were shipped to Batavia, Ohio for burial. Mr. Homan had lived at Drift the past six years. He is a brother to H. S. Homan of Ashland, who is secretary of the Big Sandy-Elkhorn Coal Operators Association. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JANUARY 27, 1944
HOWARD, Francis W.
1867-1944
BISHOP HOWARD EXPIRES JAN.18
The Most Reverend Francis W. Howard D.D.., Bishop of the Catholic diocese of Covington, died Tuesday of last week, January 18, and was buried Saturday, January 22. His diocese included the mountain district of southeastern Kentucky, and the news of his passing will come to a shock to his many friends in this part of the state. Bishop Howard was a native of Columbus, Ohio, having been born there June 21, 1867. He was ordained a priest of the Columbus diocese over fifty years ago. He was consecrated fifth bishop of Covington July 16, 1923 and ruled the diocese twenty and a half years until his death. He was especially noted for his interest in the mission territory under his jurisdiction and for his great work in the field of education. He was in Paintsville late in September of last year and blessed the mission chapel of the Sacred Heart at Wayland. Shortly afterward he became sick and entered St. Elizabeth Hospital, Covington. After some weeks he returned home but never completely recovered. His funeral was conducted from St. Mary’s Cathedral, Covington, at 10:30 Saturday morning, with burial at St. Mary Cemetery. The Most Reverend Moses E. Kiley, archbishop of Milwaukee, Wis., celebrated the solemn pontifical High Mass of Requiem. The sermon was preached by the Most Reverend John T. McNicholas, O.P.S.T.M., of Cincinnati. Also, present for the ceremonies were the following bishops: Most Reverend Edward Hettinger of Columbus, Ohio; Most Reverend Charles Cotton of Owensboro, Ky., Most Reverend William Adrian of Nashville, Tenn., Most Reverend Joseph Albers of Lansing, Mich., and Most Reverend Edward Hoban of Cleveland, Ohio. Ceremonies at the grave were conducted by Most Reverend John A. Floersch of Louisville, Ky. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JAN 27, 1944
HOWES, William Childers
1944
BROTHER OF CITY MEN DIES MONDAY
Services Were Held For Will Howes Wednesday William Childers Howes, 70, succumbed Monday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. O.J. Williams, of Betsy Layne. He had been in failing health for the past few years and had recently undergone a major operation from which he never fully recovered. He was a brother of Fred Howes and John Howes, city. Mr. Howes was born in Johnson County to the late Mr. and Mrs. E.F. Howes. He married Miss Victoria Layne, of Betsy Layne who has preceded him in death. Their one son, Jim Berry, was killed in an accident at the gas station at Betsy Layne about a year ago. Deceased was local manager of the North East Coal Mine for many years, later operating his own mine at Betsy Layne. He was well known in the Big Sandy region. Surviving in addition to his daughter and brothers above mentioned are another brother Edgar, Portsmouth, Ohio; a sister, Mrs. Gypsy Ramey, Ironton, Ohio, and two half brothers, Richard and James Layne Howes, of Cincinnati and Portsmouth respectively. Funeral services were conducted Wednesday morning at Betsy Layne. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JAN 27, 1944
NAPIER, Mary Jane (Blanton)
1944
Elderly Woman Dies At Hager Hill Following a three day illness, Mrs. Mary Jane Napier, 89, passed away Sunday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Mance Cantrell at Hager Hill. She had been in good health until the illness which caused her death. Mrs. Napier was born at Oil Springs to John "Bull" and Sallie Simpson Blanton. She was a faithful member of the United Baptist Church. She has one son, Jake Conn, Olive Hill, Ky., by her first marriage, and the following children by her second marriage; A. J. Napier, Johnson City, Tenn., Mrs. Sallie Curtis, Brookside, Ky., Ella Cantrell, Hager Hill, and Menifee Napier, Pikeville. Funeral services will be held today (Thursday) at White House with Rev. Theodore Williams and Bud Wiley delivering the sermon. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company is in charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 02-03-1944 Correction In the news release of the death of Mrs. Mary Napier, published last week in the Herald, it was incorrectly stated the Mrs. Napier was the daughter of the late John (Bull) Blanton. Her father was John Blanton not to be confused with John (Bull) Blanton, a different individual. Her age was 88 instead of 89 as stated in the earlier article. Paintsville Herald Thursday 02-10-1944
PICKLESIMER, Minnie (Stafford)
1944
DEATH SUMMONS MRS. P'SIMER MONDAY
Mrs. Minnie Stafford P'Simer 69, wife of James P'Simer, of Camp Dox, Ky., near Vanceburg, died at 10 a.m. Monday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Hazel Cooper, of 415 Thirty-fourth street, Catlettsburg. Her death followed a two weeks illness of pneumonia. Surviving are the husband, seven daughters Mrs. Cooper of Catlettsburg, Mrs. Ollie Rose, Tulsa, Okla., Mrs. Carl Moser, Houston, Texas, Mrs. Rebecca Turner, Dayton, O., Mrs. Ethel Kane, Tampa, Fla., Mrs. Tempest Danner, Cincinnati, O., and Mrs. Nellie Blanton of Ashland, Ky., five sons, C. S. P'Simer and O. S. P'Simer of Camp Dix, Ky., L. V. of Camp Blanding, Fla., Lloyd of Marshailton, Ia., and G. W. P'Simer of Chicago. Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-27-1944
RICE, Henry Martin
1944
RITES FOR H.M. RICE SUNDAY
Henry Martin Rice, 82 years old, passed away Friday at his home at Barnetts Creek. A well-to-do farmer of the Barnetts Creek section. Mr. Rice was respected and loved by all who knew him. His widow survives and an adopted niece, Mrs. Vencil Fannin, Barnetts Creek. Also four brothers, Dr. Grant Rice, George and Manford, Oil Springs and Wilson of Barnetts Creek, and a sister, Mrs. Minta Dixon, Jackson, Ohio survive. The funeral was held Sunday at the home under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home, with Rev. Guy W. Preston officiating. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JAN 13, 1944
SALYER, Billie Jean
1943-1944
Paintsville Herald
Thursday January 20, 1944
BARNETT CREEK INFANT DIES
Billie Jean Salyer, three month old, daughter of Mr. And Mrs. Willie Salyer, Barnett’s Creek, died January 17. The baby was buried Tuesday by the Preston Funeral Home.
SCARBERRY, Lina
1862-1944
Great Grandmother To 79, Succumbs
Mrs. Lina Scarberry, the mother of ten children, sixty-nine grandchildren and seventy-nine great grandchildren, passed away on January 3 1944 at her home at Lowmansville. A few days previously she had suffered a stroke of paralysis. The funeral was conducted Sunday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Amos Castle, with Nathan Van Hoose officiating, and at the Sycamore Church with Brothers Scott Castle and Millard Van Hoose in charge. Seven of her ten children survive besides a host of relatives and friends.  She had been a faithful member of the Freewill Baptist Church for some sixty years. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-13-1944 ========================================================================================= Baptist Tidings Vol 5  Paintsville, KY Feb 1944 NO. 7 MRS SCARBERRY DIES Henry was born in that great state of Virginia nearly one hundred years ago.  He was the son of Dave and Ellen Scarberry who migrated northward in those troublesome days which followed the Civil War. Lina, his good wife was born on Sycamore Creek and at what is now known as Nippa, Johnson County, Kentucky, on June the nineteenth, Eighteen Hundred and Sixty Two. She was the daughter of Marcum and Katie Ellen Penix Castle. Henry's parents came to this county when he was just a small boy and we might say that his entire life has been spent in Johnson County. Sister Lina's life as a child was spent on Sycamore Creek and near the old hearthstone in(by) which she was born. In thier early days of man and womanhood, or in the year of Eighteen Hundred and Eighty- Three, these good people met and were married and to this union were born the following children:  Nancy Jane Sadler, Katie Ellen, Bertha Castle, Mrs. Mahala Daniel, Mrs Sarah Frances Castle, Malcolm, Alfred, John M., Mrs. Dicie O'Brian and Foster. These good people came from a God fearing generation and early in their life they gave God their hearts and were baptized into the Baptist faith, Brother Henry taking his membership with the United Baptist while Mother Scarberry took her membership with the Freewill Baptist. Later in life we find that Brother Henry changed to Freewill. These good people are the salt of the earth and while their lives have been very simple indeed, yet we might say that none has been greater. They professed God, they lived for God.  In their home the Bible was the measuring instrument by which all the acts and deeds of the family were measured. In this home were taught those great and good principles which rear and produced greater and better citizens and in proof of this great teaching, their children are among our very best citizens. Henry was never very strong and by reason of death, slipped away on June the twelfth, Nineteen Hundren and Twenty-Two and joined the heavenly host. Mother Scarberry continued the race until January the third, Nineteen Hundred and Forty-four, and she too slipped out to join him on the other side. In the passing of these great characters, these children have lost among the best fathers and mothers within all the county and state their very best citizens. At each of their deaths, their bodies were taked to the old Sycamore grave yard and there laid to rest among their many friends and neighbors, there to await the promise of God towit, the resurrection of their bodies. Submitted by: Betty J. Music Daniel
SPURLOCK, Henry
1944
HENRY SCURLOCK IS BURIED AT TUTOR KEY
The body of Henry Scurlock, 78, who died January 14, (1944) at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Bert Rice, near Springfield, Ohio, was returned to Tutor Key for burial. The funeral was held Sunday afternoon at the home of Robert Castle.  Rev. F.S. Van Hoose, Rev. Don Fraley and Rev. Millard Van Hoose in charge. Mr. Scurlock is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Rice and Mrs. Everett Gainer, seven sons, George, John, Henry E., James Walton, Onie, Don and Robert, Jr.   His wife, the former Ida Van Hoose, daughter of Mrs. Louisa Van Hoose, Tutor Key, preceded him in death in 1923. Scurlock, Henry PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 1-20-1944
SPEARS, Bert
1943-1944
BERT SPEARS VAN LEAR BABY DIES OF PNEUMONIA
Bert Ronald, six week old son of Mr. And Mrs. Bert Spears, Van Lear, succumbed in a local hospital Sunday evening approximately three hours after being admitted.  He was a victim of pneumonia.  Surviving are his parents and four little brothers and sisters.  Burial was made Tuesday on Daniel’s Creek. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 06, 1944
TAYLOR, Anna Ray
1944
Dies After Operation to Remove Penny
Anna Ray Taylor, two year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Taylor, Auxier, died Sunday morning in a hospital at Huntington following an operation for the removal of a penny she had swallowed two weeks previously.  The little body was returned to Paintsville by the Jones Funeral Home for preparation and taken to the home of relatives on Davis Branch Monday afternoon. Funeral services were held Wednesday and burial was made at the Keaton cemetery. The child is survived by her parents, one brother and one sister, grandparents on both sides, and her maternal great grand-parents. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-6-1944
WILLIAMSON, Maxie
1944
WILLIAMSON WOMAN IS BURIED HERE
The body of Mrs. Maxie Williamson, 46, was brought from Williamson, WV., and laid to rest in the Wells Cemetery at Paintsville Sunday,  Mrs. Williamson, who had been in failing health the past year, died early Friday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. James Stapleton, at Williamson.  She was well-known in Johnson  County. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-20-1944


FEBRUARY - 1944


BLAIR, Jessie
1944
Jessie Blair Dies At Denver
Jessie Blair passed away at his home at Denver Saturday, February 12.  He was the son of James F. and Elizabeth Hitchcock Blair and had reached his fifty-fifth year.  Mr. Blair was a prominant citizen of his section. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Eunice (Watkins) Blair, whom he married in 1913, and the following children; Mrs. Alka Long, Mrs. Marie Conley, Wiley and Annie.  The following brothers and sister also survive; Andy Blair Crate and Mrs. Sarah Blair. Funeral services were held in the home with burial in the Sam Blair cemetery near the home, the Preston Funeral Home in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-17-1944
BURCHETT, Patsy (Stapleton)
1944
Aged County Citizen Dies
The body of Patsy Burchett. 96 year old Johnson County mother who succumbed Sunday morning, was laid to rest in the Salyers graveyard at Flat Gap Tuesday morning. Services were held prior to interment at the home of her nephews on Mudlick. Mrs. Burchett was born in Virginia and came to this county with her father's family when a child. She will be remembered as Patsy Stapleton, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jimmie Stapleton. She was a devout Baptist and was a member of the Old Bethel Church of United Baptists at Flat Gap. Burial was in Charge of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03-02-1944
CASTLE, Lula
1944
Miss Lula Castle Former Nurse Dies
Miss Lula Castle, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Castle, died at Athens, Ohio, Friday, Feb. 11, following a long illness from tuberculosis. The remains were brought to Paintsville Sunday morning accompanied by her brother, Major Bosier Castle, of Louisville, and taken to the home of her brother, Gar Castle, Thealka.  Besides the above two named brothers, she is survived by two other brothers, Lewis Castle, of Thealka, and Hubert, Logan, W. Va., and one sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Davis of this city. Funeral services were held and burial was made in the family cemetery Monday afternoon under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 17, 1944
COOPER, Mary (Patrick)
1944
AGED COUNTY WOMAN DIES
Mrs. Mary Patrick Cooper, 82, died February 3 at the home of a sister, Mrs. S. H. Patrick, Leander. Her death was attributed to infirmities. Funeral services were held Saturday, the Jones Funeral Company in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Cooper was the widow of Hamilton Cooper. Four children were born to this union, Pearlie Cooper, Clay Cooper, Verna Cooper Blanton, and Homer Cooper, all deceased with the exception of Mrs. Blanton who resides in Ashland. Mrs. Cooper joined the Missionary Baptist Church at the age of sixteen and was a faithful member throughout the years. Surviving in addithion to her sister, Mrs. Patrick, and daughter is a brother, Sam Patrick. PAINTSVILLE HERALD FEB. 10, 1944
GILLEM, John Wesley
1881-1944
City Man Dies Saturday
John Wesley Gillem, East Main Street city passed away February 25.  He was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Billie Gillem of Breathitt County and was born July 4, 1881.  He is survived by his wife, a native of Magoffin County, children, Arthur, Eunice, Ray, Roy and Nannie, and ten grandchildren.  Two of his sons are in the army. Mr. Gillem and family had moved to Paintsville some twenty-five years ago until ill health caused him to retire two years ago, he had worked for the railroad. He was a member of the Holiness Church. Services were held Tuesday with brethren of his church officiating.  Burial by the Preston Funeral Home being made in the King Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-2-1944
GULLETT, Ella L. (Artrip)
1944
Death Claims Young Mother Following an extended illness
Mrs. Virgil Gullett succumbed at her home in Paintsville Tuesday night, February 8, 1944. The body was taken to the Jones Funeral Home for preparation.  Funeral arrangements are at this time incomplete. Mrs. Gullett was the former Ella Louise Artrip, daughter of Everett Artrip, now of Columbus, Ohio, and Rosa Foster Artrip who died of influenza during the epidemic in 1918.  He husband, a member of the armed forces, is in North Africa where he participated in the invasion in November 1942. Their three children are with Pvt. Gullett’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mack Gullet. Paintsville Herald Thursday 02-10-1944
KEATON, Lonzo
1944
Keaton Death claimed Lonzo Keaton, a native of Moon, Morgan County, on February 6, from a heart ailment. He was sixty-four years old at the time of his death and was the son of the late Hiram and Mary Elders Keaton. The funeral was conducted Wednesday with the Elder Dennis Williams in charge. He is survived by his wife Martha Rowland Keaton and one child. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 10 1944
LEMASTER, Freddie
1944
FREDDIE LEMASTER
Freddie Lemaster, 41, passed away Sunday evening at his home at Barnetts Creek, after a lingering illness over a period of six years. He was laid to rest Wednesday afternoon in the Rice cemetery on Barnetts Creek, the Elder John Daniel officiating. Mr. Lemaster was the son of Manford and Cora Lemaster.  His mother died some years ago. His wife, Riddie Ward Lemaster, and a number of children survive. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-10-2944
MAY, Ruben H.
1944
Succumbs In Tacoma, Wash Ruben H. May, age 70, died at his home in Tacoma, Wash., Feb 29. Mr. May, son of Thomas G. and Amanda May, was born in Johnson County and was married to Alabama Kimbler of Painstville in 1900. They have been in the west most of their married life. He is survived by his wife, one sister, Laura May Hollis, of Seattle, and four brothers, M. M. of Seattle, R. E., Tacoma: W. J.  Lima, Ohio, and C.N., Spargursville, Ohio. He is a brother to the late Dr. J. Frank May, Ashland; Rev. S. D. May, Los Angeles, Calif., Mrs. Austin Fields  of Grayson, KY., and Mrs. Charles Rice, Wenatchee, Wash. He had been ill for many years. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 3-9-1944
MCKENZIE, Lindsay
1944
Death Summons Lindsay McKenzie
Death summoned Lindsay McKenzie on February 14 at the home of a step-daughter, Mrs. Cecil Cantrill, on Jennies Creek.  He was 69 years of age at the time of his death. Funeral services were held at the home place on Mud Lick on February 16 Rev. Scott Castle and Millard VanHoose officiating. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company was in charge. Surviving are Mr. McKenzie's wife and several children. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 17, 1944
NORRIS, Lawrence
1944
Lawrence Youth Killed Leonard Norris, 14 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Emmitt Norris, Midas, Ky., was killed Sunday afternoon when the car in which he was riding was struck by a passenger train at the railroad crossing at the Midas gas station, in Floyd County. There were six other occupants of the car, two of whom were seriously injured.  Little hope is held for the recovery of Mildred Adkins, 16. Katherine Hicks, 13, is also in critical condition.  Jerd Martin, 17, sustained three broken ribs.  The driver of the car, Ezra Osborn, his wife and baby received only minor injuries. Funeral services for the boy were held Tuesday afternoon at the former home of his parents at Blaine, Ky., Rev. Herman Ross officiating.  The family had lived at Midas only a few months where Mr. Norris was employed by the Inland Gas company.  They had resided at Oil Springs before moving to Midas.  There are five other children in the family. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-17-1944
PACK, Stephen
1944
Stephen Pack Is Killed Monday
Death Caused by Rock Fall In Mines Stephen Pack, 31 years old miner of the North East Coal Company’s mine at Thealka, died in a local Hospital Tuesday afternoon from injuries suffered in a slate fall Monday afternoon. Funeral services will be held this afternoon (Thursday) at 2:30 at the Church at Thealka. Burial will be made in the Thealka Cemetery under the direction of Jones Funeral Home. Mr. Pack had had fourteen years of experience in the mines. According to the officials of the mine, at the time of the accident Pack was working in a ten man crew that was loading the first cut off an entry where the top had been brushed. When the coal had been under cut, the immediate roof came between the pan line and the face when the rock broke off. Pack was pinned between the conveyor and the rock. Deceased is survived by his wife, the former Lizzie Hampton, daughter of Harry Hampton and four small children. The Pack family has the sympathy of all who knew them as the death angel has been a frequent visitor in there home in recent months, both Stephen’s mother and sister having passed on in that time. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 17, 1944
SKAGGS, Lurie
1885-1944
LURIE SKAGGS DEATH TAKES
INVALID WOMAN
Lurie Skaggs, 59, died at her home at Elna on February 12 1944. She was born at Barn Rock on February 5 1885, to John C. and Candance (Lyons) Skaggs. and had been an invalid her entire life. She was a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church. Survivors are the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. Ira Skaggs, Flossie, Alonzo, Andie and Mrs. Mary Curtiss. Funeral and burial servcies were on Keaton Monday at 10:00 a.m., the Preston Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-17-1944
SMITH, A. W.
1944
A, DW. Smith, a prominent coal operator of Eastern Kentucky, died at his home in Philadelphia Monday morning, on February 7th.  Mr. Smith was eighty years old.  He came to Big Sandy in 1905 with the late Morris Williams, and purchased the old Keyser Coal Company  from the late Chas. M. Keyser and Jno C.C. Mayo.  This was the beginning of the North East Coal Company.  Later, they opened mines at Auxier, and only a few years later built the towns of Seco and Millstone and opened the mines of the South East Coal Company at that place. Associated with this extensive development was Mr. Henry LaViers of this city, and under Mr. LaViers' management these mining towns won the reputation of being among the cleanest and most progressive mining towns in Eastern Kentucky. Until recent years, Mr. Smith visited Paintsville and Eastern Kentucky every month.  He took a deep interest in the civic and educational welfare of the community and contributed largely from his means for the betterment of conditions in the town and county. He was an honorary member of the Paintsville Rotary Club, and that organization at its meeting, Tuesday, adopted resolutions of regret and sympathy. Many will remember Mr. Smith as the kindly, genial gentleman that he was, whose influence was always on the side of every good movement that had as its purpose the upbuilding and progress of the community.  To his many friends hearabout, his passing away is a matter of sincere regret.  Let us who remain to carry on be imbued with the same lofty spirit and high ideals that characterized him in our community life and interest. Mr. Smith is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Alden Tifft of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and one son, Mr. Alan Smith of Cincinnati, Ohio, who succeeded his father as president of the South East Coal Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday February 10, 1944
SOWARDS, Henry Spencer
1944
FORMER CITY MAN SUCCUMBS
CLOT ON BRAIN CAUSE OF DEATH OF HENRY SPENCER SOWARDS
Relatives here were notified Monday morning of the death of Henry Spencer Sowards, former resident of this city, who passed away suddenly at the Brooklyn Naval Hospital, Brooklyn, N.Y. Sunday afternoon.  He had entered the hospital on Friday for an operation on his knee which was injured last September when he was located at Miami, Florida.  It was not known whether the operation had been performed. Sowards, about 34 years of age, had been a member of the U.S. Navy for over two years.  He had worked his way up through the ranks and had lately attended school at Ft. Schuyler, N. Y., where he had renewed his acquaintance with W. Howes Meade, local attorney who was recently commissioned in the navy and who was also receiving training at Ft. Schuyler. The Soward family lived in Paintsville approximately fifteen years, leaving here in 1929 for West Virginia.  Rev. H. G. Sowards, father of the deceased, was during his stay here pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church.    The children attended school in Paintsville and made many friends in this section.  The one daughter in the family, Musette, was married to Charles M. Wells, of the H.B. Rice Insurance Company and has since made her home here. Two brothers to the deceased, Edmund Chatham and John Buckingham Sowards, also serve in the Navy, Edmund Chatham being now located in Australia and John Buckingham at the Philidelphia Naval Hospital.  Rev. and Mrs. Sowards reside in West Virginia. Sowards is also survived by his wife, and one child who live in Charleston, W. Va. The body was returned to Charleston for burial. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 2-17-1944
SPRADLIN, Palmer T.
1944
YOUNG CHILD DIES SUDDENLY
Palmer T., 4 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Spradlin of Denver, Ky., died Sunday morning at 1:30 a.m. following a few hours illness at a local hospital. Funeral services were held at the cemetery Monday at Denver with Rev. Millard O’Brian in charge. Mr. and Mrs. Spradlin brought another child to the hospital Monday but at this time it is much better and there is a good chance of its recovery. This young couple have the sympathy of the community in their bereavement. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY FEB 10, 1944
STURGILL, Luther
1944
Luther Sturgill, 53, of Auxier died Friday morning at his home following an illness of over two years.  He had been an employee of the North East Coal Co. for nearly thirty years, until ill health caused his retirement. His wife, the former Norm Robinson, survives, with seven children, two of whom are in the Armed Services of their country.  All the children with the exception of one daughter were present for the funeral and burial of their father. One daughter from Denver, Colorado was not present, although she had wired that she was leaving.  Funeral services were held at the Auxier Church Sunday afternoon, with Revs. Wm. Horn and Don Fraley in charge after which the remains were taken back to the home, awaiting the arrival of the two children who were on their way. Burial services were held Tuesday at the Dixon cemetery near Sitka with Rev. Lemaster conducting grave side services. Funeral and burial services were under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 02/17/1944
TRIMBLE, U. G.
1944
WELL-KNOWN CITIZEN DIES AT 75
U.G. Trimble, age 75, of Denver, passed away at his home on Lower Twin branch Monday. He was the son of James and Sarah (Howes) Trimble, deceased.  In August 1889 he was married to Pauline Williams and the following children were born to this couple;  Mrs. Stella J. LeMaster, Martha M. Hackworth, James Arthur, Francis D., Earl Miss Virgie Olive Hackworth, Luther Grant and Mrs. Ruby Haze. Pauline died a number of years ago and in 1931 he was married to Doshie Hitchcock. They have had two children, Clarence B. and Mary Catherine. Besides his wife and children he is survived by many relatives throughout the county.  The body was returned to the old home at Ivyton, where services were held Wednesday morning.  Internment was in the Trimble cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-17-1944
VANHOOSE, Annie Jewell (Grimm)
1923-1944
Mrs. Annie Jewell Van Hoose, Lowmansville, died in the Golden Rule Hospital Tuesday morning. Her death was attributed to complications following the birth of a baby two months ago.  Her husband Ova Lee Van Hoose and two children mourn her passing. The Funeral was held on Wednesday afternoon at the Sycamore Church, of which church She was a member.  The elder Caldwell was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10 Feb 1944 Anna Jewell Grimm Vanhoose Memorial The Death Angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Herbert (Heb) Grimm about the hour of 9:00 am February 08, 1944, and took their daughter Anna Jewell Grimm Vanhoose. She was 21 years of age being born January 31, 1923, and deceased this life February 08, 1944. She was married to Ova Lee Vanhoose, November 25, 1940, and to this union were born two children. Anna Jewell had been sick for a short time but her condition was not considered serious until January 25 and on January 28 she was removed to The Golden Rule Hospital.  Nothing was left undone by her family and her physicians to relieve her suffering but it appeared the Chief Physician of us all had registered his call for Anna Jewell and human hands and medical science could not prevent her answering the call, but on the night before she was removed to the hospital.  God came into her life and she was able to rejoice in a Saviours Love and told her many friends around her that her way was clear. She leaves to mourn her passing, her husband who is in the US Army, two children, Robert Lee, age two years and 10 months, and Anna June, one year and five months, Also her father and mother, three brothers, Herbert (Doyle), Homer, and Donald Ray, and three sisters, Virgina Ruth, Faye, and Opal Mae, and a host of other relatives and friends. Broken is the family circle,  Our dear one has passed away; Passed from earth and earthly darkness  into a bright and perfect day. But we all must cease to langguish, O'er the grave of her we loved, Strive to be prepared to meet her, In the better world above.
VAN HORN, Elden Lee
1944
Elden Lee Van Horn, seven year old son of Marvin and Garnett Reed Van Horn, died at the home at Oil Springs on February 4,(1944). The boy was a victim of infantile paralysis which disease he suffered some five years ago. The funeral was held on February 5 at the home, the Elder Lonza Reed officiating. Burial was made at the Spradlin Cemetery in Riceville. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 2-10-1944
WARD, Mrs. Bennie (Plummer)
1891-1944
Well Known Van Lear Mother Dies
Mrs. Bennie Ward, of Van Lear, passed away at the Paintsville Hospital on February 12.  Mrs. Ward had been sick for some fourteen years. She was the daughter of the late Charles and Lidia (Pack) Plumer and was born on Twelve Pole Creek in West Virginia on August 7, 1891. At the age of seventeen she was married to Bennie Ward of Meally, Johnson County, Kentucky, and to this union were born:  Mrs. Bernice Gibson, Mrs. Ruby Boy, Charles, Mrs. Goldie Hayes, Carlie D., Hobart, Lucille, Nellie Marie, Willie Joyce, Henry, Ben Jr., and Mollie. Carlie D. and Hobart are in the armed services of this country. Also surviving are the following brothers and sisters:  Eddie Plummer, Mrs. J. N. Ward, Mrs. C. C. Price, Mrs. Lafe Daniel, Mrs. Troy Fitch, Charles and Ballard Plummer. The body was held awaiting her sons return from camp, funeral services being conducted at the Buffalo Church today (Thursday) at 10:00 a. m.  Burial was made in the cemetery nearby.  The Preston Funeral Home was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-17-1944
WEBB, Cornelious
1866-1944
OBITUARY
Cornelious Webb was born November 1, 1866, at Relief, Ky., the son of the late Aaron M. and Sarah Hill Webb, and quietly passed away Sunday, Feb. 20, 1944 at his home at Relief. He was united in marriage to Martha Wheeler Sept. 5, 1903, who preceded him in death only twelve days before. Five children survive: Donald E. Webb, Chester, Pa., Miss Lillian and Virgie Webb at home, Mrs. Nora Wright, Silver Hill Ky., and Roy Webb of East Chicago, Indiana. He is also survived by two sisters Mrs. Mark Williams, Lucasville, Ohio, and Mrs. Frank Woods, Paintsville, and ten grandchildren. Four sisters and five brothers preceded him in death several years ago. Mr. Webb had retained unusual health and strength until a year or two ago when his health began to decline. He had been in ill health for several months and became seriously ill only a few weeks before his death. Funeral services were held from the home Feb. 22, (1944) with Revs. A. C. Bradley and W. J. Hill in charge, after which he was laid to rest by the side of his wife in the family plot on the farm near the home, with brief services at the grave, conducted by Rev. Lester Shank. Mr. Webb was a successful farmer and stock breeder and took great interest in keeping his farm run on modern methods. He was a well liked and respected citizen in his community. The Paintsville Herald Thursday Feb. 24, 1944
WEBB, Martha (Webb)
1944
MORGAN COUNTY WOMAN DIES AT 72
Martha Webb of Relief, Ky., died at her home Tuesday afternoon (Feb 8, 1944) following an illness of several months. She had just returned home from the hospital Saturday where she had been a patient for several weeks. Funeral services will be held at the home Thursday morning (Feb. 10, 1944) with Reverands Alf Bradley and Wm. Hill in charge of services. Mrs. Webb was a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church. She is survived by her husband, C. N. Webb and the following children, Donald Lee Webb, a former writer for the Herald Chester, Pa.; Lillian and Virgie at home; Nora, Silver Hill, Ky., and Roy of East Chicago, Ill. Mrs. Webb was born in Johnson County, being the daughter of the late William Webb and Carnelia Melvin Webb and was 72 years old at the time of her death. The Paintsville Herald Thursday Feb. 10, 1944
WELLS, Cynthia (Collins)
1944
Cynthia Wells Buried Monday
The body of Cynthia Wells, 68 year old wife of Brownlow Wells, Odds, was laid to rest on Monday, February 21, 1944 in the home cemetery.  Mrs. Wells died at her home on February 19, 1944 from pneumonia. A native of  Odds, deceased was a daughter of the late Mr. And Mrs. Jeff Collins.  She was the mother of the following children:  McKinley Wells, deceased, Joe Wells, Maxie Ramey, Odds, Alka Adkins, Auxier, Caleb Wells, Van Lear, Rowland, deceased and Ashley Wells, Odds.  She had lived a useful Christian life and was a member of the Church of Christ. Brothers and sisters include James A. Walker and Robert Collins, Odds, Riley Collins, Floyd County, Margaret Osborne, W. Va., Mary Tackett, East Point, and Marion Collins, Williamsport. Rev. Honeycutt of Auxier preached the funeral services which were under the direction of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-17-1944
WEST, Agnes
1944
Agnes West infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Noah West, of Martha, Ky., became seriously ill last Friday morning, February 12, 1944.  Her parents started with her to a local hospital but she died just outside of town. Mrs. West has just recently left the hospital following a very serious illness, and the family has the sympathy of the community in which they live. The body was taken to the Jones Funeral Home and prepared for the burial and taken back home where burial was made Saturday near Blaine, Ky. The Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-17-1944
WILLIAMS, H. W.
1862-1944
REV. WILIAMS DIES AT LOUISA
Retired Freewill Minister Succumbs At Age 81 Rev. H. W. Williams 81, retired farmer and Freewill Baptist minister, died at 2 o’clock Saturday morning, February 12, 1944, at his home at Louisa.  He had been ill two months of complications incident to advanced age. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday afternoon, February 13, 1944, in the Louisa Freewill Baptist church with Rev. Wm. W. Moore and Rev. D. A. Hayes officiating. Rev. Williams was born in Paintsville in 1862, a son of T. S. and Melissa Stafford Williams. He lived at Charley, Lawrence County, for many years and operated a farm there, moving to Louisa when he retired a year ago.  He had been a member of the Freewill Baptist church 61 years and a minister 40 years. He is survived by his third wife, Mrs. Sarah Pelfry Williams, six sons, W. J. Williams, Gideon, Mo., G. T. Williams, Ashland, Bert Williams, Churchill, Tenn., Charles Williams, Paintsville, M. B. Williams, Bowling Green, Ky., and Rev. S. T. Williams, Rading, Ohio; sister, Mrs. Frank Chandler, Lowmansville, Ky. and one brother, G. B. Williams, Catlettsburg. His first wife, Mrs. Victoria Walker Williams died in 1920, and his second wife, Mrs. Sarah Hayes Williams died in 1932. Paintsville Herald Thursday 02-17-1944
WILLS, Jacob
1877-1944
OLDEST EMPLOYEE
DIES TUESDAY
Jacob Wills, 66, better known among his friends as “Jake” passed away Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock. He was one of the oldest employees of the Consolidation Coal Co., at  it’s Van Lear Mine, having occupied one home for nearly 22 years. He had only been sick for about a week and was brought to the hospital the day before he died. He is survived by his wife, Margaret and eight children, Mrs. Mary Preston, David, KY., Chas, of Van Lear, Mrs. Anna Ruth Tussey, W.A.C., Ft. Devens, MA., Paul at home, Mrs. Nell Himes, Ralph of Vanceburg, KY., and William and Frank both in the Foreign Service with the U.S. Forces. Funeral services will be held at the St. Casimir Mission Friday, morning at 10 o’clock by Rev. Joseph Wimmers, followed by burial in the Catholic cemetery at Van Lear under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2-17-1944
OBITUARY Jacob Wills was born November 28, 1877, at Scioto Co., OH, son of the late Pete and Mary Wills. He was united in marriage to Margaret Curran, November 01, 1903.  His wife and eight children survive;  Mrs. Don Preston of David, KY., Chas and Paul of Van Lear, Mrs. Nell Himes and Ralph of Vanceburg, Anna Ruth, WA of Ft. Devens, MA., Frank somewhere in South Pacific, Bill somewhere in England and eight grandchildren.  He is also survived by one brother, Mr. Lawrence Wills of Jackson, OH. and one sister in Beckley, WV.  Three brothers and one sister preceded him in death several years ago.  Mr. Wills having been in a good health until about a week before his death.  Funeral services were held Feb. 25, at St. Casimir Mission with Rev. Father Wimmers in charge. Jake or better known as Pop was a miner the better part of his life and to know him was to like him.  He is gone but not forgotten. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-02-1944


MARCH - 1944


ADAMS, Ida Mae (Collins)
1879-1944
Mrs. Harry Adams Dies on March 6th
Death came to Mrs. Harry Adams, wife of Johnson County's former sheriff, at Monday night at the Daniel Hospital in Prestonsburg. She had been ill for the past few months. Burial under the direction of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company will be today at the State Road Fork in Magoffin County, the funeral to be held at the Freewill Baptist Church at one p. m. Revs. Byron VanHoose and F. S. Van Hoose will officiate at the service. Mrs Adams was the former Ida Mae Collins, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Collins, Falcon. She was born on June 18, 1879. In 1899 she was married to Mr. Adams. They have two children, Mrs. Dennie Helton, city, and Lawrence Adams, Falcon. Two brothers, Millard and Will Collins reside at Salyersville, and a sister Rosa Collins, lives at Falcon. Mrs. Adams was a member of the Methodist Church. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-9-1944
ARNETT, Velma (Lacy)
1944
YOUNG MOTHER DIES MARCH 15
Velma Arnett, wife of  Willard Arnett, died March 15, at a Lexington Hospital after a few days illness. She was 27 years old and was a teacher in the Morgan County Schools. She is survived by her husband, infant daughter, her father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lacy, of Morgan Co., three brothers and two sisters and a host of friends who were shocked at her sudden death. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-23-1944
ATKINSON, Milton
1944
Milton Atkinson Dies Of Skull Fracture
Milton Atkinson, 42, son of the late Charles A. Atkinson, died Sunday, March 5, 1944, at the Christ’s Hospital in Cincinnati from a compound skull fracture sustained on Friday, February 25, 1944, in a fall at his home at Ft. Thomas.  Burial was at his wife’s home in Flemingsburg on Tuesday. Mr. Atkinson had resided at Ft. Thomas the past ten years and was a junior partner of the bonding firm of Walter, Woody and Harmardinger, Cincinnati.  He was well known in Paintsville where he spent his youth with his grandmother, the late Mary Hager Atkinson, and aunt, Miss Stella Atkinson. During World War I, he distinguished himself as the youngest marine in service in the United States, enlisting from Johnson County when only fifteen.  He participated in every major conflict in Europe, being decorated on several occasions. Surviving are his wife, the former Velma Arnold, and three children.  His mother, who is a sister to Mrs. Belle Hazelrigg, Salyersville, and Mrs. Myrtle Stewart, Flemingsburg, lives at Tampa, Fla., and was unable to attend the funeral because of ill health. Mrs. Fannie Atkinson and daughter Eloise, city, were present at the funeral Tuesday, March 7, 1944. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03-09-1944
BLANTON, Henry
1944
Henry Blanton Dies March 10th
Henry Blanton, a farmer, died on March 10 at his home at Win.  The son of the late Elias (Bud) and Minerva McCarty Blanton, he was born at White Oak, Morgan County, approximately seventy-one years ago.  Funeral services were held at the home Sunday with the Elder Lonza Reed officiating, the Preston Funeral Home in charge. Mr. Blanton was married to Rebecca Fairchild, and the following children were born to this couple; Clifford, Herbert, Mrs. Sina Blair, Estill, Mitchell, Mrs. Carrie Conley, Walter and Avery. Brothers and sisters, Hansford, Ed, Mart, Jim, John, George, Elzie. Mrs. Mary Tackett and Martha Brady have preceded him in death. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03-16-1944
BRADLEY, Emma (Hurt)
1944
Soldier’s Wife Dies
Emma (Hurt) Bradley, 19, of Bridgford Addition, passed away on Sunday, March 19, 1944.  She was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Hurt of this city. Her husband, Pearl D. Bradley, is in the services of the United States and is in the battle of Italy. The body was laid to rest in the Short Cemetery on Buffalo on Tuesday, March 21, 1944. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03-23-1944
CASTLE, Gwendolyn Lee
1944
Baby Dies Of Burns
Gwendolyn Lee Castle, year and a half old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Castle, Bridgford Addition; died Sunday night from burns incurred Friday when she fell in a tub of boiling water. The water is said to have been placed on the floor to be used for mopping and that the child backed into it.  She was taken immediately to the Paintsville Hospital where death occurred. Funeral services were held at the Thealka Church Tuesday afternoon, Rev. Millard VanHoose in charge.  Burial by the Jones Funeral Home was made in the Thealka Cemetery in the Castle lot. The baby has a younger sister.  Their grandfather is Proctor Castle, Thealka.  Mrs. Castle was the former Opal Price, Richardson, Ky. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 9, 1944
COBB, Irvin
1876-1944
IRVIN COBB, A FAMED PADUCAH AUTHOR, DIES
Irvin S. Cobb, 67, famous arthor and humorist, died March 10, (1944) in his apartment at the Sheraton Hotel in New York City.  Cobb had been ill for several months and was in a coma for twenty-four hours before his death.  His wife was by his side. Cobb was one of America's most famous and widely read humorists, a writer for newspapers, magazines and motion pictures.  Paducah, Ky., claimed him as its most famous citizen, where he was born on June 23, 1876. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 3-16-1944
COMBS, Edgar
1944
EDGAR COMBS THREE DEATHS ANNOUNCED
The Preston Funeral home reports the following deaths occurring in the county the past week. Edgar Combs, age about sixty, passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Charles Dills, West Main Street, Tuesday morning. He was the son of the late Elbert and Nancy (Preston) Combs. In early manhood, he was married to Effie Price the daughter of Harlan and Visa (Daniels)  Price, who preceded him in death a number of years ago. For the last thirty years they made their home in Central KY and Southern Ohio. He is survived by the following children, Curtis, Maysville; Elmer, Covington; Mrs. Arthur  Pelphrey and Charles Dills, city; Mrs. Edd Rhineheart, Edgar Jr., and Betty Jean, Chillicothe,  Ohio. Paintsville Herald Thursday March 9, 1944
FERGUSON, Ison
1944
Ison Ferguson of Logan Co., who had been sick for more than two years, passed away at his home on March 24, 1944. Funeral services were held in the home with the Elder Thomas Bailey officiating.  The body was laid to rest in the home cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-30-1944
HANNAH, Henry Millard
1944
H. M. HANNAH DIES MARCH 14
Funeral will Be Held Friday Morning
Funeral services for Henry Millard Hannah who died Tuesday, March 14, 1944, will be held Friday morning at ten o’clock at the home place at Meally.  Mr. Hannah was 67 years of age. He had worked for the Consolidation Coal Company until a short time ago when ill health forced his retirement.  He was a member of the United Mine Workers of America and was considered one of the best citizens of his section of the county. His wife Louella and two daughters, Mrs. Elzie Banks and Mrs. G. A. Picklesimer, Jr., both of Van Lear, survive in addition to seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.  Four sisters, Mrs. Dennie Davis and Mrs. Daizy Brown of Crum, W. Va.; Mrs. Maggie Clark, Grayson, Ky.; and Mrs. Milt Cains, Ashland, are living. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-16-1944
HENSLEY, Oliver
1944
Oliver Hensley, the fourteen month old son of Mr. and Mrs. Lonza Hensley of Stafford Addition, succumbed on Friday, March 3.  He is survived by his parents and the following brothers and sisters, James, Roy, Henry Ford, Madeline and Annalee. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-9-1944
IRVIN, William H., Jr.
1917-1944
S Sgt. Irvin who was previously reported as missing in action has now been reported by the War Department as killed in action over Germany on March 4.  He was a gunner on a B-17 Flying Fortress and had been in service since August 1941, serving at Luke Field, Arizona, Scott Field, Illinois, Las Vegas, Nevada, and other camps before leaving the United States on January 1, 1944, for England where he was located previous to his fateful mission of March 4. S Sgt. Irvin, the son of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Irvin of North Court St., Paintsville, was born in Princeton, Kentucky, on February 12, 1917.  His family moved to Paintsville in October, 1918. Therefore, Will H. spent most of his life in Paintsville where he attended school, graduating with the class of ’35 from P. H. S., and afterwards joining his family in the operation of the NEHI Bottling Co., where he was employed when volunteering to serve his country in the Army Air Corps. Surviving are the parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Irvin, one brother, Ernest of Ypsilanti; three sisters, Julia, Chicago, Ill.; Juanita, city, and Mrs. James Carter, city. Will H. had been a member of the Mayo Memorial Church since childhood.  He had a friendly smile for everyone and numbered his friends by his acquaintances.  His outlook on life was every bright, and he confidently expected to return to his family, his friends, and his place in his home town.  However, his life has been sacrificed to the gods of war as have too many thousands of our finest young men.  What a terrible price to pay. Paintsville Herald 1-11-20-1944
SGT. W. H. IRVIN, JR. TO BE BURIED FRIDAY The remains of S-Sgt. William H. Irvin, Jr., will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery at 2 P. M.  Friday, June 24, 1949. Will H., as he was known by his friends here served in the Eighth Air Force, 94th Bomb Squadron. He was killed on March 4, 1944 when his plane went down over Northern France. He was born on Feb. 12, 1917 at Princeton, Ky. The family moved to Paintsville in 1918 where he attended Paintsville schools, and grew to manhood. He was a graduate of the Paintsville High School and at the time of enlistment in August 1941, he was engaged in the bottling business with his father here. He was a member of the Mayo Memorial Church. Survivors besides his parents are one brother, John Ernest Irvin, Rantoul, Ill., and three sisters, Mrs. A. M. Taylor, Ironton, O., Mrs. R. E. Perry, city, and Mrs. James Carter, Prestonsburg, Ky. The parents of the deceased, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Irvin, and other relatives will attend the services which will be conducted at the grave by an Army Chaplain. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JUN. 23, 1949
JENNINGS, Kanawha
1944
Father of 11 Succumbs
Prominent Meally Man Buried Tuesday
Kanawha Jennings, 77, member of a large and prominent family of the county, passed away on March 11, 1944 at the Paintsville Hospital following a long illness.  He was laid to rest in the home cemetery at Meally on March 14 the funeral being held at the Buffalo United Baptist Church of which church he was a faithful member. Mr. Jennings was for many years an employee of the Consolidation Coal Company and was a member of the United Mine Workers of America. He is survived by his wife and eleven children, Clayton, Buchanan, Ky.; Mrs. Frank Wetzel  and Lafe, Wellston, Ohio; Mrs. Sam Cantrell, Mechanicsburg, Ohio; Mrs. John Davis and Ochel,, Meally; Charles, Drift; Press and Henry, Van Lear; Collista, a nurse at the Paintsville Hospital; and Mrs. Russell Daniel, Tomahawk.  Thirty-nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren also survive. Brothers and sisters to deceased are Martin, Tomahawk; Mrs. Lozie Goble, New York; Elbert, Meally; Ethel Bentley, Edwright, W. Va.; Emerson, Coalwood, W. Va.; Colly, Prestonsburg; Jay, in service in North Ireland, and Lizzie Davidson, Keene Mt. Va. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Funeral Home had charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-16-1944
LILLY, Paul
1944
LILLY FUNERAL HELD SUNDAY
Funeral services were held at the Auxier church Sunday afternoon for Paul Lilly, 38, who died after a brief illness. Paul had been an employee of the North East Coal Co., since early youth. He is survived by his wife , the former Lula Castle and two children, Paul Eugene, 14 and Laura Dolores 10, also by this father, Bud Lilly of Meally and three brothers, Marion and Mort of East Point and Samp of Estill. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Wm. Horn after which he was taken to the family cemetery near East Point and placed by the side of his mother who died when Paul was a small child. Graveside services were conducted by the U.M.W. of A and burial was made under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MAR 30, 1944
LYONS, Nellie (McKenzie)
1944
A tragedy taking the lives of two mothers and their six children occurred Sunday evening near Columbus, Ohio, when their car was struck at a crossing by the streamline train, the Spirit of St. Louis. The dead are Mrs. John Shir [Nellie McKenzie] Lyons, her four children, Shirlene, 12, Chris, 10, Phyliss 8, and John May 6, and Mrs. Cap [Elizabeth Lyons] Sherman and two children whose names were not obtainable. Mr. Sherman, who was driving the automobile, and their one other child, were injured in the accident. The bodies of Mrs. Lyons and her children arrived in Paintsville Wednesday morning and were taken by the Jones Funeral Home to Keaton for burial this morning. The bodies of Mrs. Sherman and two children were sent to Louisa, it is reported. It is understood that at the time of the accident, Mr. Lyons was at a garage having repairs made on his car which had broken down causing the families to double up in the Sherman car.  They were returning to their home at Columbus from church when struck by the train. The Lyons family had moved from Flat Gap to Columbus the past year.  The Shermans, originally from Morgan County, had lived in Ohio many years at Portsmouth. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03/16/1944
MAHAN, Myrtle (Hackworth)
1884-1944
Myrtle Mahan Dies After Long Illness
Mrs. Myrtle Hackworth Mahan succumbed early Monday morning, March 13, 1944, after a long illness.  Services were held Wednesday afternoon, March 15, 1944, at the Jones Funeral Home, and interment was made in the Mayo Cemetery. Deceased was born at Ivyton, Ky., on July 23, 1884, the daughter of Lindsey and Jane Adams Hackworth.  She came to Paintsville to make her home when a young woman and in 1904 married Frank Mahan.  Her four children Mrs. Emory Davis and Frank Mahan, Jr., of Ellicott City, Maryland, Theodore Mahan of Weeksbury and Howard, city, were all present for the funeral. In addition to her children she is survived by a brother, Riley Hackworth, Wenatchee, Washington, and a sister, Mrs. B. F. Conley, Twisp, Washington. Myrt, as she was known to her many friends, was with the Paintsville Country Club for several years prior to her illness and in her work there made a host of friends to add to the many lifelong ones who she cherished so much.  Her zest for living and her devotion to her family and friends will not soon be forgotten, for her life was truly a full and gracious one. Paintsville Herald Thursday 06-16-1944
MCCLAFFERTY, Mrs. Frank (Anna Moats)
1944
Mrs. McClafferty Is Buried in W. Va.
The body of Mrs. Frank McClafferty, who died Saturday following a long illness, was taken Tuesday to Harrisville, W. Va., for interment.  Death came to Mrs. McClafferty at her home on Frank Street, city.  She was seventy years of age. A short service was held at the home Monday morning in charge of Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church. Surviving are Mr. McClafferty, two daughters, Mary McClafferty and Mrs. Virginia Fannin, all of Paintsville; four sisters, Mrs. Grace Musgrove, Mrs. T. H. Davidson, Miss Pauline Moats and Mrs. Asa Osborne, all of Harrisville, W. Va., and one brother, Joe Moats, Cairo, W. Va. The body was prepared for burial and taken to Harrisville by the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-23-1944
PELPHREY, William Robert
1944-1944
Death Claims Infant Son
William Robert Pelphrey, infant son of TSgt. and Mrs. William R. (Red) Pelphrey, Lawrenceburg, passed away, Saturday March 25,1944, at the Kings Daughter Hospital at Frankfort. The little son was born the preceding day and was named in honor of his father and uncle, Robert Mills, Tomahawk. Funeral services were held at the Gordon Funeral Home, Mrs. Lillie Franklin furnishing the music. Mrs. Pelphrey was the former Barbara King, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. D. T. King, Lawrenceburg. Sgt. Pelphrey, a former employee of the Paintsville Herald, is the son of Mrs. Mae Pelphrey, City. Paintsville Herald 3-30-1944 Thursday
SALYER, James M.
1944
Paintsville Herald Thursday
March 16, 1944
AGED FLAT GAP SUCCUMBS
James M. Salyer, who was born seventy-five years ago on the waters of Mud Lick, near Flat Gap, passed away at the home of his son, Ezra Salyers, Collista, on March 8. He had been in good health until a few weeks ago. On the morning of his death after he had eaten breakfast, he had sat down with his son and evidently suffered a stroke bringing instant death. His wife died several years ago and a daughter Mrs. Stella Blevins has also preceded him in death. Two sons, Ezra and John Logan, and a brother, Ben J. Salyers, Lawrence County, survive. Funeral services were conducted by the Preston Funeral Home, were held at the home, burial being made at Hager Hill cemetery.
SHERMAN, Elizabeth (Lyons)
1944
A tragedy taking the lives of two mothers and their six children occurred Sunday evening near Columbus, Ohio, when their car was struck at a crossing by the streamline train, the Spirit of St. Louis. The dead are Mrs. John Shir [Nellie McKenzie] Lyons, her four children, Shirlene, 12, Chris, 10, Phyliss 8, and John May 6, and Mrs. Cap [Elizabeth Lyons] Sherman and two children whose names were not obtainable. Mr. Sherman, who was driving the automobile, and their one other child, were injured in the accident. The bodies of Mrs. Lyons and her children arrived in Paintsville Wednesday morning and were taken by the Jones Funeral Home to Keaton for burial this morning. The bodies of Mrs. Sherman and two children were sent to Louisa, it is reported. It is understood that at the time of the accident, Mr. Lyons was at a garage having repairs made on his car which had broken down causing the families to double up in the Sherman car.  They were returning to their home at Columbus from church when struck by the train. The Lyons family had moved from Flat Gap to Columbus the past year.  The Shermans, originally from Morgan County, had lived in Ohio many years at Portsmouth. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03/16/1944
TRIMBLE, Paris G.
1944
Paris G. Trimble, one of the most highly esteemed farmers of the Barnetts Creek section, passed away at his home on Monday, March 27. He was the son of the late John G. and Matilda ( Van Hoose) Trimble and is relatred to practically every citizen of the county. Some thirty-six years ago he married Nannie B. Gullett who survives in addition to the following children, June, Elva, Mrs. Jewell Green and Oma. Bob and Gladys preceded him in death some years ago. He came from a large family but is only survived by one brother, Shell, city, and one sister, Laura Pelphrey, Staffordsville. Funeral services will be held at the home today ( Thursday) at ten a. mm. With the Elders Guy W. Preston and Johnnie Reed.  Burial will be on the farm be on the  farm near the home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 30 Mar 1944
VANHOOSE, Thomas Jefferson
1858-1944
RITES FOR VANHOOSE
Well-Known Man Dies At Ashland
Thomas Jefferson VanHoose, one of the most widely known citizens of Eastern Kentucky, passed away at his home in Ashland at 10:45 a.m. March 17. He had been a life long resident of Johnson County until a few months ago when he moved to Ashland to make his home with a son, M. V. VanHoose. Uncle Tom was loved and cherished by his many friends. He was born on the waters of Lower Tom's Creek at what is now known as Tutor Key, on January 23, 1858, to James and Elizabeth Hayes VanHoose. His parentage has been among the most prominent of all these mountains, being active in the development of the county from both a religious and educational standpoint. Tom in his early years was a farmer, later entering the mercantile business. For the last thirty years he has been a real estate man of the county. On December 9, 1890, he was married to Lydia Stapleton, a sister to the late G. B. (Mack) and Grant Stapleton. To this union were born ten children, four of whom died in infancy. Surviving are Mrs. Lydia Chaoman, Mrs. T. Y. Fitchpatrick and M. V. VanHoose, Ashland; J. G. VanHoose, Dixon, Ill., Mack VanHoose, Hammond, Ind., and Mrs. Lloyd Clay, city. The body was returned to Paintsville by the Preston Funeral Home where it was prepared, and funeral services were held in the Freewill Baptist Church of which he was a member, on March 21. Rev's. F. S. VanHoose and R. R. Rose, and the Elder Guy W. Preston officiated. Burial was made in the Mayo Cemetery in Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday 03-23-1944
WEBB, Jane
1944
PROMINENT RURAL CITIZENS SUCCUMB
The Preston Funeral Home reports the following deaths: Jane Webb, a life long citizen of the Oil Springs section, passed away at her home last Friday, March 24, (1944). She was born in Virginia some eighty-four years ago and came to this section with her parents when a child. Aunt Jane was never married chosing rather to live by herself. She was one of the finest characters of all her community. Funeral services were held in the home on Sunday, with the Elder Lonza Reed officiating. Burial was in the home cemetery. The Painstville Herald Thursday March 30, 1944
WELLS, James
James Wells, 56, Has Heart Attack James Wells, 56, died suddenly March 6 at his home in Weeksbury from a heart attack. The deceased was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Lafe Wells, of Johnson County.  He had lived at Weeksbury for twenty one years where he was associated with the Baptist church and was a member of the U. M. W. A. No. 5898.  He worked at the Koppers Coal Company. He is survived by his wife, Mary Honeycutt Wells, and the following children: Wilfred, Mrs. Ruth Goble and Miss Rosemary Wells, Weeksbury, Frank, Dayton, O. and Delmas, Wheelwright.  Brothers and sisters surviving are Chester Wells of the U. S. Army; Mrs. Jenny Blankenship, Weeksbury, Mrs. Jose Collins, Auxier; Mrs. Lou Collins Beachwood, Michigan; and Mrs. Ann Thompson, Putney, Ky. Paintsville Herald 3-9-1944
WELLS, Shade
1877-1944
Shade Wells Buried Mar. 28
Well-Know Paintsville Man Dies Suddenly
Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the home for Shadrick M. Wells who passed away suddenly Sunday morning.  Officiating at the ceremony was Rev. Guy Coffman, pastor of the Mayo Memorial Church.  Immediately following the service, the body was taken to the old home place at Boons Camp where it was laid to rest beside other members of his family. Mr. Wells was born January 19, 1877, at Boons Camp, the son of M. L. K. Wells and Exer Meek Wells.  He was married on May 30, 1900, to Manda M. Ward, who preceded him in death many years ago.  Six of their nine children survive.  Sixteen years ago Mr. Wells moved to his present home on Fourth Street.  He has served in public office in Johnson County in the capacity of deputy sheriff.  There are a host of relatives and friends who will regret to learn of his sudden passing. Children surviving are Mrs. Aaron Ward, Boons Camp; Mrs. French Holbrook, Jackson, Ky.; Mrs. Wilbur Daniel, city; Mrs. Malcolm Shearer, San Diego, Calif.; Mrs. Howard Sparks, Van Lear; and Mrs. Jack Vickers, Portsmouth, Ohio.  He is also survived by four brothers and two sisters, W. G. Wells and Ed Wells, Boons Camp; Z. Wells, city, and M. L. Wells, Wabasso, Florida, Mrs. Pauline Robinson, city, and Mrs. Goldie Duncan, West Van Lear. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Funeral Home had charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday 3-30-1944


APRIL - 1944
   
BLANTON, Mrs. William "Lola" (Colvin)
1944
DIED On April 1
Mrs. William Blanton died Saturday at her home at Volga. She was the daughter of the late Frank and Mary Catherine (Meade) Colvin. She was the mother of four children, Haskel, Mrs. Hobart McKenzie, Santford Franklin and James Kendrick. Mrs Blanton had been in poor health for more than two years. She was a member of the old Fishtrap United Baptist Church. Besides her husband and children she is survived by the following brothers and sisters, Dennis, Bruce, Foster, Halleck, Tollie and Mrs, Foster Rigsby. The Preston Funeral Home was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday 04-06-1944 [[Note: according to my records, Mrs. Blanton's first name was Lola.]]
COMBS, Bert W. 1944
The body of Pfc.Bert Wendell Combs, 19, who was killed in action in Germany April 6, 1944, will be returned here for reburial Sunday, December 19. Pfc Combs was born in Johnson County April 26 1925, the son of  Mr. and Mrs. Ben F.  Combs of Wittensville,Ky. He is survived by ten brothers and sisters, Mrs. Carmel Witten, Mrs. Roy Conley, Mrs.  Clarence Witten, Mrs. Charles Castle, Joy Combs, Juanita Combs, Clyde Combs, Morris  Combs all of Wittensville and Dorris Combs and George Combs of Detroit, Michigan. Funeral services will be conducted at the Wittensville Methodist Church at 1:00 p.m.,by   Revs. S. Ball and J.B. Edmond. Burial will be in the family cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE  HERALD THURSDAY DEC, 16, 1948
 

COMBS, Goldia Mae (Robinson)
1944
Paintsville Herald Thursday
April 20, 1944
TWO OTHERS PINNED BENEATH AUTO
Mrs. Goldia Mae Combs, 40, an employee of the G. C. Murphy store at Paintsville, was injured fatally early Sunday morning when an automobile in which she was riding with several friends went over an embankment on the Auxier road between East Point and Auxier. Brought to the Paintsville Hospital by the Jones Funeral Home ambulance, Mrs. Combs was pronounced dead soon after arrival by Dr. P. B. Hall. Two of six other persons in the vehicle, Fred W. Caudill, Paintsville, and brother Watkins, of West Van Lear, a soldier home on furlough, were injured. They two were pinned beneath the automobile with Mrs. Combs. After attending a party for the soldier at Van Lear, a group had started to Auxier to attend a square dance, it was said a bad break in the road caused by a slide, resulted in the tragedy. Mrs. Combs was the daughter of Mrs. Margaret Music Robinson and the late William H. Robinson of East Point. Beside her mother she is survived by her husband Ernest Combs, who has been working in Long Beach, California; a daughter, Betty Combs and a son Charles Combs, Paintsville, and a brother, Homer Robinson, Ashland. Funeral Services under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home will be held in Ashland, probably Saturday afternoon following the arrival of her husband who is on his way here from California.
COMBS, Malinda (Preston)
1944
Paintsville Herald Thursday
April 6, 1944
MRS. COMBS DIED SUNDAY
Mrs. Malinda Combs, 66, Wittensville, died April 2, after an illness of several years. She was the daughter of the late W. S. Preston and Jane Travis Preston. Her husband Bob Combs, and the following children survive; Mrs. Verlie Brown, Mrs. Shirley Lyons, Mrs. Ruby Davis, Baltimore, Md.; Arnold Combs, Arby Combs, Mrs. Merlie Vanhoose and Jewell Combs all of Wittensville. One brother, Jack Preston, Thelma, also survives. Mrs. Combs was a member of the Methodist Church. Funeral services were held at the home with Rev. Millard Vanhoose officiating. Burial was made in the home cemetery. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture had charge.
CONLEY, Everett
1944
The personal belongings of Pfc. Everett Conley, who was killed in an automobile accident in Iceland on April 1, 1944, were returned to his father, Wm. (Big Bill) Conley at West Van Lear last week. No information other than that Conley met death in a car wreck has been furnished the parent. Survivors include in addition to the father, a sister Mrs. Haskell Webb at West Van Lear, and a brother George Conley. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-28-1944
FAIRCHILD, Mary
1944
STAFFORDSVILE WOMAN, MISS FAIRCHILD, DIES
Miss Mary Fairchild, 74, Stafordsville died in the Paintsville Hospital Tuesday after an illness of two-weeks.  She was taken to the hospital on Monday when when she suddenly became worse. Surviving Miss Fairchild are five bothers, Enoch, Ed, John, Joe and Levi, and a sister, Mrs. Nola Hanners. Services were held Wednesday in the home with burial at Staffordville. The Preston Funeral Home had charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-13-1944
FRAIM, Mrs. W. F.
1944
MOTHER OF LOCAL MAN DIES
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Fraim left last Wednesday night, April 19, 1944, for Rockport, Ky., to attend the funeral of Mr. Fraim’s mother, Mrs. W. F. Fraim, who died at Greenville Hospital, Wednesday, April 19, 1944.  Mrs. Fraim was 79 years old and had been married for 60 years.  She is survived by her husband and two sons, Carl Fraim, city and Roy Fraim, Dayton, Ohio. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 27, 1944
GREER, Samuel William
1944
Sam Greer, 68 Died Tuesday Educational Board Member Cancer Victim Samuel William Greer, 68 years old, Spanish American War veteran, member of the Johnson County Board of Education and prominent East Point farmer, died Tuesday in the Paintsville Hospital.  He had been suffering from cancer of the liver and had been in the Pikeville Hospital until last Saturday when he was brought to the Paintsville Hospital by the Jones Funeral Home ambulance. Mr. Greer is survived by his wife, Mrs. Naomi Burke Greer and four sons, William and Claude Greer, East Point, Cpl. Guy Greer, in U. S. Army, and Paul Greer at home; and 2 daughters, Miss Madge Greer of the local Office of Price Administration and Miss Evelyn Greer employed by the Johnson County Board of Education. Mr. Greer was the son of the late William Greer of East Point.  Funeral services are to be held at 2 O’clock Friday afternoon in the Christian Church at East Point with Rev. S. C. Honeycutt officiating. The Jones Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-13-1944
GRIFFITH, Nancy Evelyn
1944
Mrs. Morton Griffith, 48, Was Ill For Month Mrs. Nancy Evelyn Griffith, 48 years old, wife of Morton Griffith, died Sunday morning at her home after an illness of a month. A native of Magoffin County, Mrs. Griffith had lived in Johnson County twenty years. Two sons of Mrs. Griffith are in the armed service.  Burlin Griffith, U. S. Army, is in Newfoundland and Harlan Griffith, U. S. Navy, in England. The following other children also survive, Mrs. Gladys Preston, Hager Hill; Shella, Alice, Edna Earl, Ella May, Paul, Mabel Ruth and Lillian Irene, all at home. The Jones Funeral Home will have charge of arrangements. The date is to be set following reciept of word from the two sons in service. Paintsville Herald Thursday 04-27-1944
KELLEY, Joseph
1944
FORMER RESIDENT OF CITY AUTO VICTIM
Joseph Kelley, formerly of Paintsville, was killed by an automobile in Parkers Landing, Pa., April 8. Mr. Kelley formerly lived at 80 Boyd Street, Paintsville and was employed by A.V. Hoenig for 27 years. He was superintendent over the oil fields at Wheelerburg, Ky. Surviving Mr. Kelley are his widow, Mrs. Nora Kelley, Paintsville; a daughter, Mrs. Keith Mitchell, Pikeville, Ky.; a son, Russell D. Boyd, in the U.S. Navy, and a sister, Miss Mae Kelley of Parkers Landing. Mr. Kelley had a large number of friends in Paintsville and that section who will be sorry to learn of his death. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY MAY 20, 1944
RANDOLPH, Herschell
1944
Herschell Randolph Died In Ohio
Herschell Randolph, 45 years old, a resident of Paintsville until a few weeks ago, died last Friday, April 21, 1944, in Ohio where he had gone to live near Chillicothe.  Funeral and burial services were conducted at his home there. Surviving Mr. Randolph are his widow and a brother, Lester Randolph.  The latter living in Charleston, W. Va. Paintsville Herald Thursday 04-27-1944
RICHARDSON, A.G.
1944
FATHER OF LOCAL NURSE DIES
Miss Opal Richardson, Paintsville Hospital, recieved word Monday that her father, A. G. Richardson, Charleston, W. Va., had died of a heart attack. The funeral services were held at Prestonsburg. The many friends of Miss Richardson are extending their sincere sympathy. Paintsville Herald Thursday 04-06-1944
RICHMOND, E. B.
1944
E. B. Richmond, 72 years old, died at the home of his daughter Mrs. Charley Newsom, of Paintsville on April 28, after an illness of four days. He was the son of the late John and Susan (Auxier) Richmond, who came to this country from Scotland. Mr. Richmond married Zora Webb who preceded him in death some 16 years ago. To this union there were born 8 children, 6 are living: Ottis, Johns Creek; John D., Holden, W. Va., Fiddler, West Van Lear; Mrs. Charley Newsom, Paintsville; Mrs. John Brickley, Van Lear; and Miss Fannie Richmond, Fort Wayne, Ind. He has two sister and two brothers, Mrs. O. T. Preston, Mrs. W. M. Sherman, Ashland, W. R. Richmond, Paintsvelle, and John Richmond, Elk City, Okla. Mr. Richmond was a farmer and spent his life on the little farm on which he was born. Some eight years ago he was converted and baptized into the Christian faith and took his membership with the Old Christian Church at Johns Creek. Paintsville Herald Thursday 05-11-1944
SALYER, Oma
1944
WOMAN 100 DIES TUESDAY
Mrs. Oma Salyer, 100 years old, died Tuesday, April 18, 1944, at the home of her son, Dock Salyer, Red Bush, after a brief illness.  A native of Johnson County, Mrs. Salyer had been active until a short time before her death. Funeral services were held today, Thursday, April 20, 1944, with Rev. Dennis Williams and Rev. Lonza Reed officiating.  The Jones Funeral Home had charge of arrangements. A daughter of Mrs. Salyer, Mrs. Samantha Salyer, lives at Ashland. Paintsville Herald Thursday  04-20-1944
SCARBERRY, Eva Ellen
1944
Lowmansville Girl 16, Dies in Paintsville
Miss Eva Ellen Scarbery, 16, died in the Paintsville Hospital April 6, following an operation for Goiter, Guy W. Preston, of the Preston’s Funeral Home reported this week.  Miss Scarbery, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Scarbery, is survived also by six brothers and sisters.  They are James Elbert, Ralph, Randall, Lina Missouri, Nancy Sue and Bertha Ann.  Services were held in the home Friday with Rev. Scott Castle officiating. Paintsville Herald 4-13-1944
SPARKS, William Hayes
1878-1944
WILLIAM HAYES SPARKS
OBITUARY
William Hayes Sparks of Kerz, Ky., died in the Paintsville Hospital Thursday, April 20 following an illness of jaundice from which he had been suffering for some time. Mr. Sparks was a life-long resident of Johnson County and was one of its most prominent teachers and best citizens.  He entered the teaching profession in his early youth and devoted the bigger part of his life to it having taught thirty-seven school terms.  He was perhaps the county’s oldest school teacher and certainly one of its best, for throughout the years it has been his heart’s interest, and he had been involved in all the educational movements and participated in promoting progress along intellectual lines.  He served the people one term as County Supervisor of Schools, and even in the later years of his since failing health made it difficult to pursue his life-long active work, he put his unwavering zeal into conducting adult educational programs sponsored by the Government in this way accomplished great good in his community. Hayes was born at Kerz, Ky., July 27, 1878.  He was the son of Mr. And Mrs. Benjamin F. Sparks.  He married Etta Ross of Flat Gap, Ky., on March 25, 1909.  To this union was born one daughter Louise, who is now Mrs. Rennie Thomas Salyer.  Mr. And Mrs. Salyer are living in Lima, Ohio where he was employed by the Inter-State Gas Co., and Mrs. Salyer held a position in the Personnel Dept. of the Lima Tank Depot operated by United Motors Inc.  Both were called home to the bedside of her father a few weeks before his death. Besides his wife and daughter, Hayes leaves bereft these brothers: Frank Sparks of Spokane, Washington; Sheridan Sparks of Wenatchee, Washington and John Sparks of Seattle, Washington.  He was a brother to the late Alonzo Sparks of Chandlerville, Ky.  Hayes leaves to mourn his passing a number of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends and former students. Mr. And Mrs. John Sparks of Seattle, Wash., arrived here five days before their brother’s death and remained for the funeral services which were conducted Saturday April 23, at the New Regular Baptist Church at Kerz, by the Rev. Harry Bruce Daniel and Rev. Wm. Horn of Kerz, Ky.  A goodly sized crowd attended the services and the body of Hayes Sparks was laid to rest in the Sparks cemetery at Kerz, Ky.  The bereaved family feel deeply grateful to the many friends and relatives for the beautiful floral tributes and the kindly sympathy which was manifested. Mr. Sparks was well-known in and around Johnson County, and he had many friends.  He was staunch, up-right and truthful and in his passing the country has lost an honest, loyal citizen, the community an kindly neighbor and the teachers of the county feel that a faithful trooper has fallen from their ranks.  But we know that burdens of this earthly life and departed from us, the fine brave spirit of him will live on, and his life work also will not perish, but will live on in the memories of those who have been guided by his wise and thoughtful teachings, and who have been fortunate enough to live in contact with his great intellectual mind.  We feel that “He is not really dead who lives on in the hearts of those who enshrine his memory.” Paintsville Herald Thursday May 04, 1944
STAPLETON, Robert Lee
1944
TWO CITIZENS DIE ON APRIL 1
Robert Lee Stapleton,84 years old, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Willie Jayne, Staffordsville, last Saturday. "Uncle Bob" as he was known by many of his friends was born at Big Stone Gap,VA. When a boy he came to Eastern Kentucky. He was married to Martha Cochran. To this union five children were born. They were Samuel,Norman, John Winston, Merlie May and Mrs. William Jayne. Mr. Stapleton was a member of the United Baptist Church. Funeral services were held in the home Sunday morning Elders Guy W. Preston and Lonza Reed officiating. Burial was in the family cemetery on Little Paint Creek. Burial was under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald April 6, 1944 
WHEATLEY, Heber
1944
Heber Wheatley, 56 years old, was drowned last Thursday, April 13, 1944, while fishing in the Big Sandy River at White House near the home of his cousin, Frank Wiley, where he was visiting.  His body had not been recovered at the time The Herald went to press. Three persons, Mrs. Frank Wiley, and her two small sons, saw Mr. Wheatley topple from the boat and heard his distress call for Mr. Wiley.  The victim sank immediately. Mr. Wiley and neighbors have searched the river and are continuing to search for the body. Mr. Wheatley was the son of the late Prof. J. B. Wheatley and Mrs. Wheatley of Paintsville.  Professor Wheatley, one of this section's foremost educators, died 41 years ago.  Mrs. Wheatley, with  whom Heber made his home, survives. "Stumpy", as he was known to his many friends and acquaintances, was a civil engineer by trade.  he had the misfortune of losing a leg many years ago since which time he had been unable to continue his work.  He had attended Paintsville public schools and the Sandy Valley Seminar and was one of the most widely read man in this part of the state. Besides his mother, Mr. Wheatley is survived by three brothers, James G. Wheatley and William Wheatley, Paintsville, and Virgil Wheatley, Baltimore, and a sister, Mrs. May Layne, Paintsville. The Paintsville Herald Thursday April 20, 1944
The body of Heber (Stumpy) Wheatley was found Monday night, August 8, 1944, by Isom Wallen, White House, in a sand bank of the Big Sandy River near Mr. Wallen's home.  Mr. Wallen was attracted to the bank by dogs which unearthed the body. Wheatley had drowned on April 13 while fishing in the River near Chestnut. All attempts to recover the drowned man failed.  The pace at which he was found was approximately two and a half miles below the spot where he had drowned. Coroner Guy W. Preston was called and the body was taken to the Preston Funeral Home.  Burial was made Wednesday in the Mayo Cemetery. S services were held at the grave in charge of R. R. Rose. The Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-10-1944
WHEELER, Elizabeth
1944
Miss Wheeler of Staffordsville Dies
Miss Elizabeth Wheeler, Staffordsville, died Sunday in the Golden Rule Hospital after an illness of three weeks.  The daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jasper Wheeler of Staffordsville, Miss Wheeler, who was 68, had never married.  She was a member of the Church of God. She had lived alone in her home near the home of her brother, Tobe Wheeler. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday afternoon at the residence by Rev. Mose Kitchen. Burial was in the family cemetery. Besides her brother Miss Wheeler is survived by another brother, Edgar Wheeler, Ashland, and a sister, Mrs. Sara Ann Witten. Funeral arrangements were made by the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Paintsville Herald Thursday April 13, 1944
WITTEN, W.M.
1944
SITKA RESIDENT
DIES IN HUNTINGTON W.M. WITTEN, 2 OTHER DEATHS REPORTED BY PRESTON FUNERAL  HOME.
W.M. Witten, prominent Sitka resident, died  last Friday in St. Mary’s Hospital, Huntington. He was 76 years old.  Mr. Witten was a member of the Christian Church. Surviving are two sons, Cecil and Hobart Witten; two daughters, Mrs. B.B. Short and Miss Eunice Witten; three brothers, John, Chester and Thomas, and  a sister, Mrs. Doll Rice. Services were held Sunday afternoon at the home with Rev. Leonard Webb, Rev. S.C. Honeycutt and Elder Guy W. Preston officiating. Burial was in the home cemetery. Paintville Herald Thursday 4-13-1944
WRIGHT, Dolphia
1944
NATIVE OF COUNTY DIES IN CINCINNATI
Funeral services for Dolphia Wright, 31 yeas old, Cincinnati, who died April 07, 1944, in Cincinnati, were held Wednesday at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marion Wright, Red Bush. He had been living in Cincinnati for the past three years. Surviving Mr. Wright, besides his parents are his wife, Mrs. Wanda Lee Wright; three children Georgene, Charles Edward and Judy Wright; three sisters, Mrs. Alma McCulley, Cincinnati; Mrs. Era J. Farrell, Woodlawn, OH., and Mrs. Edward Anderson, Cincinnati and one brother, Manis Wright, Red Bush. The Jones Funeral Home had charge of arrangements.  Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Russell Wallin Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-06-1944 

MAY - 1944


BAYES, Margaret A. Daniel
1944
Mrs. Margaret Bayes died at Age 85
Mrs. Margaret A. Bayes, 85 years old, died May 4 at her home at Sitka.  Mrs. Bayes had been married twice.  Her first husband, Jess Daniel, died some 20 years ago. She later married Nat Bayes, who also preceded her in death. Funeral services were conducted at the home with Rev. Guy W. Preston officiating.  The Preston Funeral Home had charge of arrangements. Mrs. Bayes is survived by the following children, Mrs. Dan VanHoose, Kerz; Joe Daniel, Faris, Flora, Sabra and Byron. Mrs. Bayes was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Paintsville Herald Thursday, May 11, 1944
BURHCETT, Mary Liz (Stambaugh)
1944
MARY LIZ BURCHETT
Mrs. Noah Burchett, Stambaugh, Ky., passed away May 3 following an extended illness.  She was 65 at the time of her death which occurred at her home. Service were held at Stambaugh on May 5, burial being made in the family cemetery. Elders Ferguson and Brown had charge of the funeral. Mrs. Burchett was the only daughter in a family of 9 children.  Her parents were the late Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Stambaugh who came from Floyd County to make their home at Stambaugh.  Her husband preceded her in death some four years ago. Surviving are children: Mrs. Jemima Stambaugh, Jesse, Garfield, Hervie, and Theodore Burchett and Mrs. Anna Holbrook and brothers H.M. Stambaugh and R.H. Stambaugh. Mrs. Burchett was converted when a young woman and baptized into the Baptist faith, taking her membership with the Locust Grove Church at Stambaugh.  She was a devoted member throughout her lifetime and leaves a host of friends and relatives to mourn her passing. The Preston Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-18-1944
CAIN, Charles Cleon
1944
Lightning Kills Louisa Soldier
Cpl. Charles Cleon Cain, 27, Louisa, was killed by lightning Monday, May 29, at Drew Field, Tampa, Fla. Two others were also killed by the bolt. Funeral rites were held for young Cain in Louisa Sunday afternoon. The son of Walter L. Cain, Louisa, and Mrs. Eula H. Ready, Lexington,  Cpl. Cain was married to Miss Rosemary Crutcher who is a sister of Jack Crutcher Paintsville.  Cpl. Cain is a nephew of W. T. Cain of the Sipp Theatre. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-8-1944
CAUDILL, Edmond
1944
EDMOND CAUDILL, 85 ILL SIX MONTHS, DIES
Edmond Caudill, 85, years old, Riceville, died Tuesday of this week after an illness of 6 months. Mr. Caudill’s first wife, Mrs. Nancy Hughes Caudill, died many years ago.  He later married Mrs. Mintie Spears Caudill who survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Emma Blair and Mrs. Josie Spears, and two sisters Mrs. Emma Childers and Mrs. Pauline Blackburn. Funeral and burial services were held Wednesday. Rev. Hargis Conley officiated. Arrangements were made by the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 5-11-1944
FINLAYSON, J. M.
1944
J.M. FINLAYSON DIES MAY 27
J.M. Finlayson, 58, died at the St. Joseph’s Hospital at Lexington, Saturday, May 27, from a heart attack. The body was brought to Oil Springs Monday where it was laid to rest in the Stapleton Family Cemetery. Mr. Finlayson, a salesman of a Cincinnati drug concern was married to Mrs. Ridda Stapleton Mayo.  They have one daughter Johnny Jean. He is also survived by a brother, Jack, at Lansing Mich., and a sister, Mrs. Bess Stapleton, Lexington.  He was a first cousin of Congressman A.J.May, of Prestonsburg. Attending the funeral from out-of-town were Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Phelps and his sister, Mrs. Stapleton, from Lexington, Mrs. Greenville Spradlin, Mr. and Mrs. Jodie Spradlin, Mrs. Madge Hensley, and Mrs. Tiny Nichols, of Prestonsburg, Mrs. R.B. Dickerson, Pikeville, Mrs. Ronald Hall, Huntington, and Mrs. Elizabeth Burke, Ashland. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-01-1944
FRAZIER, Edward
1944
JENNIES CREEK FARMER DIES
Edward Frazier Buried Monday Edward Frazier, 69, Collista, died Saturday morning following a paralytic stroke which he suffered in March. He had been a resident of the Jennies Creek section the past 24 years. Surviving are his wife Amanda Pennington Frazier and several children. Funeral Services were conducted at the home Monday morning by Rev. Millard O’Bryan after which the body was taken to the McCarty cemetery near Manila, KY., where burial was made under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 5-25-1944
HARMON, L. D. "Bud"
1944
Bud Harmon  Thealka, Dies
L.D. "Bud" Harmon, 49 years old, died May 4 following an operation at the Paintsville Hospital. Harmon had been a miner at the Thealka mines of the North East Coal Co., for many years. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Lizzie Mullins Harmon, and children, R. Burlin and Carl Vencil. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Millard VanHoose.  Burial was at Sycamore. Arrangements were by the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday May 11, 1944
HILL, Kathleen
1944
HILL, Kathleen  4th Child Dies of Paralysis
The five-weeks-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hill, Mine Fork, died last Saturday from infantile paralysis. Kathleen was the fourth child in this family to fall victim to this disease, Rev. Guy W. Preston, who handled the funeral arrangements, announced. Two brothers, Willis and Ellis Hill survive.  Funeral and burial services were conducted Monday. Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-11-1944
PORTER, William Douglas
1944
Heatstroke Is Fatal To Child
The body of William Douglas Porter, ten-year-old son of Walter and Zella Fairchild Porter, Big Sandy, West Virginia, was brought to Paintsville Saturday for burial. The child was a victim of heatstroke and died May 17 at a Welch, West Virginia, hospital. Under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home, the funeral was held at the home of his grandfather, Jesse Fairchild, of Greentown. William Douglas was one of three children, leaving a sister Margaret, 15, and a brother Donald, 8, to mourn his passing. Paintsville Herald  Thursday 5-25-1944
RICE, David S.
1944
BOY 6, DROWNS IN OHIO RIVER
David S. Rice, 6-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville Rice, drowned early Sunday afternoon in the Ohio river when he fell from a houseboat on which he was playing. Efforts of a unit of the U. S. Coast Guard to revive the boy proved futile after he had been caught under the boat for six hours. The parents, formerly residents of 3142 Oakland avenue, Catlettsburg had moved to Kenova only two weeks ago. The father is employed by the Ashland Oil and Transportation Co., a division of the Ashland Oil and Refining Co. The body was brought to Paintsville Monday where funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday. Burial was made in the Johnson cemetery near Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday 06-01-1944
RICE, I. G.
1869-1944
I.G. RICE IS BURIED JUNE 4
Served As Common- Wealth’s Attorney And Clerk An impressive Masonic funeral was held Sunday, June 4, at the First Baptist Church in Paintsville for I.G. Rice, well-known city resident who died in his seventy-sixth year, May 31. Ministers officiating at the rites were Rev. Ralph E. Webb and Elder Culley Sparks. Burial followed at the old home place on Tom’s Creek. Pallbearers were Ray Turner, John Dills, Virgil Howard, Verner Stambaugh, Russell Price and Harry Johnson. Mr. Rice was born on April 21, 1869, to Samuel M. and Martha Jane on Tom’s Creek. On March 30, 1903, he was married to Della Caudill who survives in addition to their five children: I.G. Rice, Jr., Ashland, Hilda Mae Harris, Prestonsburg, Samuel M. Rice, Baltimore, Mary Martha Doane, Petersburg, Va. And Capt. Theodore Roosevelt Rice, Huntsville, Alabama, who were all present for the services. One daughter, Bernice Rice, passed away a few years ago. Brothers and sisters of the deceased include Link G. Rice, and Anna Walker, deceased, Dora Daniel, city, Jane Cordell, Sitka, Phoebe Conley, Rock House, Proctor Rice, Wenatchee, Wash., John D. Rice, Crestwood, N.Y., and Mrs. M.A. Sheppard, Wenatchee, Wash. A life-long resident of Paintsville and Johnson County, Mr. Rice was known by the entire citizenry. For more than a quarter of a century he was a prominent figure in public life, serving the people faithfully and well as their commonwealth’s attorney, circuit court clerk and representative in the legislature at Frankfort. Prior to his election to office he taught school in the rural sections of the county and was recognized as one of the outstanding school teachers of the county. Mr. Rice had suffered from an incurable disease for a number of years, becoming critically ill a few months ago. He will be greatly missed thru-out the county by his hundreds of sorrowing friends. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JUNE 8, 1944
RICE, Larie Gene
1944
LARIE GENE RICE OF SITKA DIES
Larie Gene Rice, year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ora M. Rice, of Sitka died in a local hospital the morning of May 16th from pneumonia.  The father is in the service in Italy.  There are no other children in the family, Mrs. Rice will be remembered as the former Rusha  VanHoose, Sitka. The funeral was held Wednesday at the home, the Elder Guy W. Preston officiating. Paintsville Herald Thursday 5-18-1944
ROBINETT, Elmer
1944
Robinett Killed In Italy Mrs. Lillian Robinett, city, was notified last Friday by the War Department that her husband, Pfc. Elmer Robinett was killed in action in Italy May 24.  She had previously been notified that he was missing on May 23. Pfc. Robinett volunteered in the service and has been overseas two years, taking part in the Tunisian, Srellan and Italian campaigns.  He is a native of Lawrence County but has made his home in Paintsville for some time.  Mrs. Robinett is employed at the local rationing board. They have three small children.  Pvt. Robinett was 29 years old. Paintsville Herald Thursday June 29, 1944
WOODS, Elizabeth (Fitzpatrick)
1944
Aged Mother Laid To Rest Heart Ailment Fatal To Mrs. Woods
Mrs. Elizabeth Woods, 78, died at her home in Leander on May 18, 1944, following a prolonged illness of more than two years from a heart ailment.  Notwithstanding the fact that her death was unexpected, her passing was a severe shock to her family and friends who knew her as one of the best women this section ever produced. The body was laid to rest Saturday, May 20, in the old family cemetery at Leander.  Services were in charge of the Rev. Scott Castle. Mrs. Woods was born in Johnson County and spent her entire life in this region.  She was well known and characterized for her honesty and uprighteousness.  She had been an active member of the Missionary Baptist Church since her fifteenth year, serving many years as superintendent of the Sunday School and in other religious work.  She lived a life worthy of anyone to follow. Her parents, Civilian and Martha Ann Fitzpatrick, preceded her in death some years ago.  On November 23, 1903, her husband Samuel Woods passed away.  Their children are Dennie and Basil at home and Mrs. Ollie Brown, city.  She is also survived by a brother Burns Fitzpatrick, Knoxville, Tenn. Paintsville Herald Thursday June 1, 1944

JUNE - 1944


BAYES, JAMES JACK
1944
Last Rites for J.J. Bayes
Prominent Farmer of Pigeon
Succumbs Sunday James Jack Bayes, prominent farm of the Pigeon section died at the age of 81 years on Sunday, his death occurring at a local hospital after a short illness.  Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at the home with Elders Scott Castle, Lonza Reed and John Collins, his family of ten children all being present. Mr. Bayes, the owner of three farms, was actively engaged in their management until the illness causing his death.  He put in his own tobacco crop this season. Surviving are his wife, Katherine Fairchild Bayes, and children: Mrs. Sina Fairchild, Mrs. Challie Long, Charlie Bayes, all of Oil Springs, Mark Bayes, Win; John Bayes, Riceville, Mrs. Raleigh Conley and Dord Bayes, Mt. Sterling, Ohio, Printis Bayes, Dayton, Ohio, Moody Bayes, Ashland and Mrs. Oscar Salyers, Flat Gap. Also surviving are forty-two grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren, a brother, Frank Bayes, Mine Fork and two sisters Mrs. Alice Lemaster, Oil Springs, and Lou Bayes, Hillsboro, Ohio. Funeral directions were in charge of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday, June 22, 1944
BLAIR, Missouri Jane (Webb)
1944
MRS. SHERMAN BLAIR DIES
West Van Lear Mother Buried Wednesday Near Home
The body of Missouri Jane Blair, widow of Sherman Blair, was laid to rest Wednesday afternoon in the family cemetery at West Van Lear.  Mrs. Blair's death occurred on June 19 after an illness of five months from heart dropsy.  She had not been well since her husband's death last January. Services were conducted at the Chrustian Church in West Van Lear, the Rev. S. C. Honeycutt preaching the sermon.  Mrs. Blair was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church and had lived her entire life at Hager Hill and West Van Lear.  She was born in Johnson County, on September 27, 1875. Surviving are the following children; Mrs. Marcus Adams, Van Lear, Tom Blair, at home, Mrs. Dee Blair, Paintsville, Mrs. Walbridge Hall, West Van Lear, Gordon Blair, East Jenkins, Francis M. Blair in the armed service.  Mrs. Blair has one brother, Caney Webb of Akron, O., and a sister, Mrs. W. E. Rice, Collista. The Paintsville Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-22-1944
BLEVINS, Susan F.
1944
SUSAN BLEVINS, 88,
DIES SATURDAY
Susan F. Blevins, widow of the late W.R. Blevins, died Saturday evening at the home of her son Frank Blevins. Mrs. Blevins lived to a ripe old age, being 88 years and three months old at her passing. Funeral services were held at the home of her son Monday at 10 o’clock and burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-15-1944
BROWN, Frances
1944
Invalid Woman Succumbs June 15
Mrs. Frances Brown, an invalid of twenty years, died Thursday, June 15, 1944, at the home of her grandson, Roy Brown, Jr., in Van Lear.  She was 77 years of age.  She was buried Sunday, June 18, 1944 at her old home place at River. Mrs. Brown’s husband, Roy had preceded her in death some nineteen years ago.  Their one son, also named Roy, passed away about thirteen years ago, and she has since made her home with her grandson at Van Lear. Arrangements were made by the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 06-22-1944
BURCHETT, Curtiss
1944
PFC. Curtiss Burchett Mr. and Mrs. Willie Burchett, Stambaugh, are in receipt of a letter from Adjutant General Ulio confirming the recent telegram received by them notifying them of the death of their son, Pfc. Curtiss Burchett, who was killed in France on June 6. Pfc. Burchett was inducted in the armed forces in November, 1942. He attended a cooking school in Georgia and was an army cook at Fort Benning, Ga.  He was sent overseas in July, 1943, going first to North Africa, Sicily, and then England.  It was after his arrival in England, he wrote the homefolk that he was the company barber, leading them to believe that he would not be in combat. A letter written by Pfc. Burchett late in May was received by his parents on July 3, three days before the casualty message. Surviving besides his parents are ten brothers and sisters, Mrs. Paris Meade, Nippa; Mrs. Reggie Caudill and Mrs. Herschell Caudill, Ohio; Mrs. Johnny Justice, West Virginia; Sergeant Ernest Burchett, Big Springs, Texas; Pvt. Otto Burchett, Camp Bowie, Texas; and Angeline, Mae, Gusta, and Wilma at home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-27-1944
CONLEY, Roger Thomas
1944
Eight Year Old Boy Died In West End
The home of Mr. and Mrs. Bernice Conley, city, was deeply saddened on June 24 when their eight year old son Thomas Roger passed away.  He became sick about six weeks ago and was given the best medical aid and all that loving hands could do.  Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church with E. Z. Cavin officiating.  The little boy was laid to rest in the Turner cemetery near the home. In addition to his parents, Thomas is survived by two brothers and three sisters and one grandmother, Mrs. Mary McCloud of this city. The Jones Funeral Home was in charge. Paintsville Herald 6-29-1944
CRIDER, Samuel M.
1944
Father of Local  Man Succumbs
Samuel M. Crider of above East Point on Little Paint died at his home Thursday morning at the advanced age of 92 years, 8 months and 4 days. Mr. Crider was a blacksmith by trade and knives made by him were considered the best that could be made.  His wife preceded him in death several years ago.  He is survived by four sons and two daughters, Alex and Sam F. of East Point, Will of Hager Hill and Grover, city, Mrs. Elmer Hester, East Point and Mrs. A. B. Burnette of Ohio. Funeral services were held at the Christian Church at East Point, Ky., Saturday morning by Revs. S. C. Honeycutt and Wm. Horn. Burial was made at Hager Hill in the family lot by the side of his wife with Jones Funeral Home in charge. Paintsville Herald Thurdsay 7-6-1944
DANIEL, Josephine (Rice)
1944
Widow Of Dr. G. V. Daniel Succumbs June 8,1944
Mrs. Josephine Rice Daniel of Jennie's Creek died last Thursday morning,June 8,1944, at the Prestonsburg Hospital after a lingering illness. Mrs. Daniel was 72 years old at the time of her death. Funeral services were held Saturday morning at the Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Ralph E. Webb being assisted by Rev. Sam Sloan of Catlettsburg. The Body was laid to to rest in the Mayo Cemetary beside that of her husband, Dr. G. V. Daniel, who passed on in 1932. Mrs. Daniel was born at Denver, the daughter of the late D. J. and Mary Fairchild Rice. She resided in Paintsville during her husband's lifetime. Their home was on Second St.,in the west of town. She was a faithful worker in the Missionary Baptist Church and was widely known and loved. After the doctor's death, she moved to Jennie's Creek to make her home with her sister, Miss Stella Rice. Four years ago, she joined her son, J. Virgil Daniel, in Balboa, Panama, staying there approximately a year. Mr. Daniel was later transferred to California and came to Paintsville several months ago when he was notified of his mother's serious illness. In addition to her son and sister aforementioned, Mrs. Daniel is survived by another sister, Mrs. Cynthia Miller, Ivyton,Ky.,and a brother, John Rice, of Hager Hill. Paintsville Herald  Thursday 6-15-1944
DIXON, Alonzo
1868-1944
ALONZO DIXON
DIES JUNE 6TH
AGED MINISTER AND FARMER BURIED ON JUNE 8
Alonzo Dixon was born July 9, 1868, deceased June 06, 1944, age 75 years, 10 months, and 27 days.  He was the son of Isaac and Ella Margarett May Dixon.  Was married to Mary Hayes Jan. 09, 1890.  To this union were born the following children: Arla of Charleston, W.Va.., Rolla and Hascal of Paintsville, Mrs. C.M. Davis of Winifred, KY., and Elmer of Staffordsville.  He has 19 grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.  Also survived by the following brothers and sisters, Mrs. Emma VanHoose of Tutor Key, Tobe Dixon of Staffordsville, Clark Dixon of Jackson, Oh, Guy Dixon of Wittensville, KY., Mrs. Warren M. VanHoose, of Frankfort, KY., Don Dixon of Catlettsburg, Mrs. James McKenzie and Mrs. J. Langley Preston of Wittensville. He was converted and baptized in the year 1911 and shortly after became a minister of the Freewill Baptist Church and lived a devoted Christian life until death.  He will be greatly missed but we  feel our loss is heaven’s gain. Funeral services were held at the home Thursday afternoon by the Rev. Scott Castle of Paintville.   A large crowd was present at this service. Burial was made in the Dixon family cemetery by the side of his father who was buried there about 42 years ago. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-15-1944

   
HITCHCOCK, Pvt. Auta Edgel
 1944
 Pfc. Auta Edgel Hitchcock, 20 who was killed in action in Burma on June 11, 1944, was returned from an overseas cemetery for reburial here this week. Pfc. Hitchcock was born near Volga December 31, 1923, the son of Verlie Hitchcock who resides at Irwin, Ohio, and Mrs. Paul Crum who lives at Patterson Field, Dayton, Ohio. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. S. C. Honeycutt and Rev Millard Van Hoose at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 9 at the Webb Cemetery at Volga, with the American Legion in charge of the graveside rites. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JUNE 10, 1948
  
HOWARD, Dick
1944
Mrs. Hattie B. Howard, city, has received a letter from the War Department confirming the death of her son, Pfc. Dick Howard, who died on June 7 in France as a result of wounds received in action on that date. The letter stated in part, “If any further details are received they will be promptly communicated to you. The significance of his heroic service to his country will be preserved and commemorated by a grateful nation, and it is hoped that this thought may give you strength and courage in your sorrow.” Mrs. Howard has another son in service, Pvt. Harlan Howard, who spenty (sic) twenty-two months overseas, serving in North Africa, Sicily and Italy. He was wounded in action and arrived in this country in August for treatment at the Ft. Benjamin Billings General Hospital, Indiana. Harlan came home to spend seven days with his mother after she was notified of the death of her son, Dick, and has now returned to Indiana. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY SEP 21, 1944
 
MACELHANEY, G. F.
1944
Husband of Local  Woman Is Killed  In England
Relatives here have been notified that G. F. MacElhaney, Washington, C. H. Ohio, (Washington Court House, Ohio) was killed in action in England on Sunday, June 25, 1944.  His wife is the former Grace Picklesimer, daughter of W. R. Picklesimer, Riceville.  They were married five years ago. Paintsville Herald Thursday 07-13-1944
 
MCKENZIE, Charlie
1944
Pfc. CHARLIE MCKENZIE
Mrs. Kitty R. McKenzie, Volka, has the following letter, dated August 1, from the War Department, confirming an earlier wire notifying her of the death of her son, Pfc. Charlie McKenzie. Dear Mrs. McKenzie: I deeply regret that it is necessary to confirm the telegram of recent date informing you of the death of your son, Pfc. Charlie McKenzie, who died on June 20, 1944 in France as a result of wounds received in action. I wish I could give you more information but unfortunately reports of this nature prepared in active theaters of operation are of necessity brief and contain only essential facts.  However, if any further details are received they will be promptly communicated to you. The significance of his heroic service to his country will be preserved and commemorated by a greatful nation, and it is hoped that this thought may give you strength and courage in your sorrow. My deepest sympathy is extended to you in your bereavement. Sincerely yours,  J.A. Ulio,  Major General The Adjutant General Paintsville Herald Thursday August 17, 1944
 
OBITUARY:  Pfc. Charlie McKenzie, son of Roy and Kitty McKenzie, was born June 22, 1921. On June 11, 1942, he answered the call of duty to his country for which he paid with his life in France on June 20, 1944, being 22 years, 11 months, and 28 days of age. He spent two years and nine days in the service of his country of which three months were spent overseas. Charlie had a very pleasant friendly disposition and was loved by all who knew him. He leaves to mourn his passing his father and mother, grandfather and grandmother, four brothers, Hobart, Martin, John Schuyler, and Wade all of Volga. Also three nieces and one nephew, and a number of other relatives and friends. Paintsville Herald Thursday June 3, 1948
MURPHY, Onda
1944
ONDA MURPHY BODIES OF TWO ARRIVE FROM  OVERSEAS MONDAY
Parallel In Lives Of Soldiers Ends  In Final Rites The bodies of two Johnson County boys who left Paintsville in the same draft call, who spent their entire service in the Army together and were killed in action on D-Day, June 6, 1944, were returned Monday for re-burial in their family cemeteries.  The bodies were returned from the same overseas cemetery. They are Pfc. Onda Murphy, 28, son of Mr. And Mrs. Everett Murphy of Van Lear and Pfc. Curtis Burchett, 22, son of Mr. And Mrs. Willie Burchett of Stambaugh. Funeral services were held for Pfc. Murphy on December 16 in the Christian Church at Meally by the Rev. S. C. Honeycutt and burial was made in the family cemetery near the church. Services were held for Pfc. Burchett at the Beach Grove Baptist Church at Pippa on December 17 by Rev. F. F. Riggsby and Rev. Cully Sparks.  Burial was made in the family cemetery near the home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday December 18, 1947 ONDA MURPHY PFC. ONDA MURPHY Pfc. Onda Murphy entered the service November 3, 1942, and was killed in action in France on D- Day, June 6.  He was in the North African and Sicilian invasion with his buddy, Curtis Burchett, Stambaugh who was also killed on June 6. Pfc. Murphy was the son of Mr. And Mrs. Everett Murphy, of Van Lear.  He attended Ban Lear High School and was popular with his classmates.  He was farming when he entered the service at the age of 26.  A few weeks after joining the armed forces he underwent a serious operation at tan army hospital in Georgia.  He was shipped overseas early in 1943 without ever coming home on furlough. Pfc. Murphy is survived by his four brothers, Albert, Lawrence, Herschell and Glen, all of Van Lear and five sisters, Mrs. Frank Stambaugh, Mrs. Roy Brown, Myrtle, and Josephine and Minerva Ellen, and grandfather, George Powers of Meally. He fought in the last hour of need for his country. Paintsville Herald Wednesday August 17, 1944
RATLIFF, Polly (Parker)
1944
Young Mother Of White House Dies
Mrs. Polly Ratliff, 25 year-old wife of Everett Ratliff, White House passed away on, Tuesday, June 13, 1944, death resulting from tuberculosis.  She had one son, Everett Lee. Funeral services were held at Concord on Thursday, June 15, 1944. Mrs. Ratliff was born at Thelma to J. L. and Clarenda Music Parker.   She had made her home at White House ten years. The Preston Funeral Home was in charge.   Paintsville Herald Thursday 06-22-1944
ROBERTS, James Henry
1944
JAMES HENRY ROBERTS
Pvt, James Henry Roberts Mr. and Nrs. Charlie Roberts are in receipt of a letter from Major General J.A. Ulio of the War Department confirming the recent telegram notifying them of the death of their son, Pvt James Henry Roberts, who was killed in France on June 29 1944. Major Ulio wites in part " I fully understand your desire to learn as much as possible regarding the circumstances leading to his death and I wish there were more information available to give you. Unfortunately, reports of this nature contain oly the briefist details as they are prepared under battle conditions and the means of transmission are limited. I know the sorrow this message has brought you and it is my hope that in time the knowledge of his heroic service to his country, even unto death, may be of sustaining comfort you". James Hanry was born in Paintsville on July 28 1914. Until he volunteered in the army March 3 1942, he had spent his entire life here with the exception of a few months down in the state on a WPA job. He trained in Louisiana and Virginia before going overseas in December of last year. He landed in England and remained there training for the invasion of France. His participation in that battle which cost him his life was his first combat experience. James Henry feared nothing and his place in the army and in his family cannot be filled. Surviving in addition to his parents are two brothers, Earl, City; and Thomas, in the army in California; four sisters, Mary Brownlee, Cinninnati; Eloise Dickenson, City; Lorena Butcher, Williamsport; and Edna Pauline in the U.S. Waves stationed at Bethesda, Md. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-3-1944
ROWE, Jesse
1944
Miner Is Killed In Car Wreck
Jesse Rowe, tip Top, Ky., a miner was injured fatally when the car he was driving went over an embankment on Route 40 between Salyersville and West Liberty. The accident occured on June 26 and Rowe was rushed to a local hospital where he died three days later without regaining consciousness. The body was prepared by the Paintsville Funeral Home and taken to Tip Top for burial. Paintsville Herald Thursday 07-06-1944
STAPLETON, Millard
1944
MILLIARD STAPLETON BURIED TODAY
Funeral services will be held this afternoon, Thursday, June 15, 1944, at 2:30 at the Freewill Baptist Church for Millard Stapleton who died Tuesday, June 13, 1944, at his home in Stafford Addition.  Mr. Stapleton about 35 years of age was the son of Neva Price Stapleton and the late Lon Stapleton who was the victim of a train accident many years ago. Paintsville Herald Thursday 06-15-1944
VANHOOSE, Fred C.
1871-1944
A more complete story will be carried by the Herald next week. Relatives in Johnson County were notified Wednesday morning of the death of Fred C. VanHoose, Tutor Key, who passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital in Huntington following a few weeks illness.  The Preston Funeral Home sent an ambulance to Huntington for the body. Funeral services will be held Sunday morning at ten o’clock at the home in Tutor Key. A more complete story will be carried by the Herald next week. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-8-1944 Fred C. VanHoose Is Buried At Tutor Key, KY A crowd estimated at more than one thousand gathered Sunday morning at the home in Tutor Key to attend the funeral rites of Fred C. VanHoose who passed away June 7 at a Huntington hospital.  Services were in charge of Elders Guy W. Preston and Culley Sparks. Mr. VanHoose, one of Tom’s Creek’s most prominent citizens, was born on September 26, 1871, to the late Henry and Elizabeth (Dixon) VanHoose.  He was the eldest of their ten children. He was married to Stella spears of River, in 1893, their children being Orville and Clyde, deceased; Hobart, Brooklyn, W. Va.; Mrs. Edna Martin, Toledo, O.; Roger, Curtiss, O.; and Quinby, Nippa.  After death took his first wife from him, he was married in 1912 to Maranda Daniels Childers.  Born to them were Wendell and Perry, of Nippa, and Anna Wheeler, Oil Springs. A one time teacher in the county school, Mr. VanHoose was the first in this section to become interested from a commercial standpoint in horticulture and has devoted fifty years of his life to the betterment of the industry in Eastern Kentucky.  Over a period of twenty years his fruit entries at the State Fair in Louisville, the Robinson Harvest Festival at Quicksand and numerous county fairs, have won the blue ribbon.  What once was a hillside farm is now a prosperous fruit orchard. Becoming interested in politics, Mr. VanHoose served in the state legislature from 1918 to 1936.  It was during his first term at Frankfort in the legislature that he introduced a bill founding the Horticultural Society.  The bill passed and he has since that date been a faithful member of the organization, serving as its president at one time. After his term in the senate, the title “Senator” stuck and he is known affectionately throughout the countryside as Senator VanHoose.  Since his pioneering in the fruit industry in the county others have become interested, profiting by his experiences.  He was ever generous with his advice to his fellow fruit growers that they might benefit from his knowledge gained over the years. In January of this year at Lexington, Kentucky, Senator VanHoose spoke before the Farm and Home Convention, summarizing his experiences in the horticulture field. Surviving in addition to his wife and children are the following brothers: A. F., Prestonsburg; Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-15-1944
WALTERS, Lafe 1944
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. today for Pvt. Lafe Walters, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wellington Walters of Williamsport.   Pvt. Walters was killed while serving with the armed forces in Italy on June 1, 1944.  He was 19 years of age at the time of his death. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving besides his parents, are his wife, Jean T. Osborne, one son, Lafe Walters of Kaliopi, Ky., and the following brothers and sisters:  Frank, Raymond, James, and Shadie Lee all of Williamsport.  Mrs. Jim Mollette, Boons Camp, Elmer Walters, Delbarton, W. Va., Mrs. Estil Ward, Meally, Mrs. Ingram Penix, Lando Mines, W. Va., and Wellington Walters, Jr., Leando Mines, W. Va. Funeral services were held at Old Friendship Church, Williamsport by Revs. Winifred Meek, Leonard Walters, and Sam Preston. Burial was made in the family cemetery by the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9 December 1948
  
WELLS, Goldie
1944
Goldie Wells, Invalid Succumbs At Odds
Death claimed Goldie Wells, 29 year old daughter of G. M. Wells, Odds, on Thursday, June 20. She had been an invalid the past fifteen years. Burial by the Paintsville Funeral Home was made at Odds Friday morning.  Rev. Honeycutt and Rev. Short officiated at the services conducted at the Christian Church. Paintsville Herald 7-6-1944

JULY - 1944


ARMS, Charles
1944
Pfc. Charles Arms, 24, who was killed in action overseas July 18, 1944, was returned Tuesday for reburial and was taken to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Elijah Arms who live near East Point. Funeral services were  conducted Wednesday, June 23, at 1:00 with the American Legion in charge of the graveside rites.  Burial was in the Johnson Cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JUNE 24, 1948
 
BLANTON, Ben
1915-1944
PVT. BEN BLANTON
The son of Mr. and Mrs. George Blanton, Volga, Pvt. Ben Blanton, 29, was killed in France on July 20, 1944. Ben was born March 10, 1915, and was inducted in service on April 9, 1942. He was sent overseas shortly after entering the service never having a furlough. A member of an engineering crew, Ben was first sent to Scotland, then to North Africa, to Sicily and on to Italy, where he participated in all the hard fought battles. In December, 1943, he was sent to England where remained until the invasion of France in June. His place in the army and with his family can never be filled. Surviving in addition to his parents are three brothers, Charlie, Sanford and Junior, all in the navy, and two sisters, Mrs. Grover Blanton, Win, Ky., and Mrs. Jesse Pelphrey, Volga. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-28-1944

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OBITUARY:
 Ben Blanton was born March 10, 1915.  He met his death July 20, 1944, while serving his county in France.  At the time of his death he was 29 years, 4 months, and 10 days of age. Left to mourn his passing are his father and mother, George and Addie Blanton, and the following brothers and sisters: Charlie, Flat Gap, Sanford Jessie Pelphrey, Volga.  One brother Oliver preceded him in death. To have known Ben was to love him, and he leaves a host of relatives and friends to mourn his passing. "His stay here with us was short.   It is hard to believe he is dead, but I hope he will live on and on when this world is at it's end.  God knows best and it is not his will all can stay here always.  When the trumpet sounds to awaken the dead then Ben will come forth to go home to be with God to live forever where there will be no woes or sad goodbyes. Return no more to his home but his place at his home is forever remembered with us all." Paintsville Herald Thursday Jul.27 1948
BURCHETT, Andrew Jackson
1865-1944
BURCHETT DIES AT 79
Well-Known Stambaugh Man Laid To Rest
Funeral services were held July 8 at Stambaugh for Andrew Jackson Burchet, 78 year-old resident of Stambaugh. He was laid to rest in the family cemetery at Stambaugh, Elders Preston and Reed in charge. Mr. Burchett was born on September 16, 1865, in Floyd County to Thomas Jefferson and Ann Hite Burchett who had come to Eastern Kentucky from Virginia. He was twice married, the first to Jane Stambaugh, the second to Lydia Cain. Children by his first marriage are Sola Crum of Stambaugh, and Thomas Jefferson Burchett and Beatrice Clay, of Huntington. Two children were born during his second marriage, Stella Mae Williams, deceased, and Francis Marion Burchett, of Stambaugh. He has one brother, Landrum Burchett who survives, his three other brothers Noah, Jules and Henry, and six sisters having all passed on. Mr. Burchett was a member of the United Baptist Church and was a farmer of his section of the county. The funeral was under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 07-13-1944 Funeral For Andrew Burchett Funeral services will be held for Andrew Burchett, aged Stambaugh man who died at nine o'clock Wednesday night, at the home Saturday morning at 10 o'clock. Mr. Burchett was ill two weeks and was 79 years of age. Paintsville Herald Thursday 07-06-1944
CASTLE, Collista
1944
Collista Castle Dies Following Operation
The Preston Funeral Home reports the sudden death of Mrs. Collista Castle, 30 year old wife of W. M. Castle, Nippa, following an appendicitis operation performed July 18 at the Golden Rule Hospital.  She was the mother of four children. Funeral services were held July 20 at the Sycamore Church with Elders Don Fraley and Filmore Gambill.  Burial followed in the Sycamore cemetery. Note: This cemetery is also known as the "Clark Castle Cemetery". Paintsville Herald Thursday July 27, 1944
CASTLE, Homer Clyde
1944
MARTHA BOY IS KILLED
Homer Clyde Castle, 20, formerly of Martha, has been killed in action. He was the son of Floyd and Effie McBrayer Castle, now living at New Boston, O., and was related to Mrs. Ernest F. Wellman of Louisa and L. C. Lyon, Barn Rock. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 20, 1944
CASTLE, Lizzie (Preston)
1891-1944
Thealka Mother Buried Tuesday
Funeral services were held at Thealka Tuesday afternoon for Mrs. Lizzie Castle, wife of Frank Castle, whoe passed away at the Paintsville Hospital Sunday after an illness of four weeks from typhoid fever. Ministers officiating were Millard VanHoose and Don Fraley. Mrs. Castle was known as one of the best women of her community, always willing to give her neighbors a helping hand.  She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church.  She was born at Tutor Key, then known as Mingo, this county on September 5, 1891, and was married to Mr. Castle, an employee of the North East Coal Company in 1907.  Her parents were Isaac and Malinda Price Preston. Children surviving include Mrs. Mabel Jackson, Wharton, West Va.; Woodrow Castle, Thealka, Andrew, Sylvia, Mildred and Ernest at Thealka. Brother and sisters are Harry Preston, Hager Hill; Mrs. Mollie Huff, Thealka; Mrs. Zina Dills, Nippa and Mrs. Exer Grimm, Nippa. Note: Lizzie Castle is buried in the Castle Cemetery at Whipporwill,  Johnson Co., KY. Paintsville Herald  Thursday July 27, 1944
CENTERS, Arley
1944
PVT. ARLEY CENTERS
The War Department on July 31 sent the following letter to Mrs. Mary J. Centers, City: Dear Mrs. Centers: It is with regret that I am writing to confirm the recent telegram informing you of the death of your son, Pvt. Arley Centers, 35.636.157.  Infantry, who was killed in action on July 7, 1944 in France. I fully understand your desire to learn as much as possible regarding the circumstances leading to his death and I wish that there were more information available to give you. Unfortunately, reports of this nature contain only the briefest details as they are prepared under battle conditions and the means of transmission are limited. I know the sorrow this message has brought you and it is my hope that in time the knowledge of his heroic service to his country, even unto death, may be of sustaining comfort to you. I extend to you my deepest sympathy. Sincerely yours, J. A. Ulio. Major General The Adjutant General Paintsville Herald Thursday 17 Aug 1944
CHANDLER, Charles Jeff
1863-1944
CHARLES JEFF CHANDLER of Lucasville, Ohio, died Wednesday of last week at the home of his son, Roscoe Chandler of Lucasville, Ohio, Route 1.  He had been in ill health for some time, having suffered a stroke about three years ago. He was born May 12, 1863, a son of Henry C. and  Elizabeth Grimm Chandler, of near Blaine, and moved to Lucasville  community about 31 years ago. His wife, Clista Jane Young, died in  1933. Four daughters and two sons also preceded him in death.  Mr. Chandler had been a United Baptist minister, although he had not  been active for some time because of ill health, and also worked as a  cooper.  He is survived by five daughters, Mrs. Lindsey Wheeler and Mrs.  Harrison Pack of Blaine; Mrs. Walter Cup of Franklin Furnace, Ohio and  Mrs. Arlie Kelley and Mrs. Harvey Fitcher (?) of Lucasville, and three  sons, Wesley and Henry of Lucasville, and Roscoe of Lucasville, Route  1. Two sisters also survive, Mrs. Elizabeth Eldridge of Ironton, Ohio  and Mrs. Linda Fannin of Jackson, Ohio. Two sisters and two brothers  are deceased.  Funeral services were held Saturday at the home of Mrs.  Arlie Kelley of Lucasville. Rev. Sandy Phillips and Rev. Paul Turner  officiated. BIG SANDY NEWS.  Friday, July 28, 1944. 
DANIELS, Virgil
1944
Sgt. Virgil Daniel Killed in Pacific
Relatives in Paintsville have received a letter earlier this month August 1944, from Mr. and Mrs. Proctor Daniel, Springfield,Oh.,that they have been notified that their son, Sgt. Virgil Daniel of the United States Marine Corps, has been killed in the South Pacific . Originally from Johnson County, the Daniels have lived in Springfield the last few years. Surviving in addition to the parents are two sisters and a brother Burson, who is in service in France. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-24-1944 DANIEL, VIrgil SGT. 1949 The remains of Sgt. Virgil Daniel, 21, killed in action on Guam July 16, 1944, were returned here Thursday for re-burial. Sgt. Daniel was born in Marion, Ohio, the son of Proctor and Nola Green Daniel.  He enlisted in the U. S. Marine Corps from the Chicago Area and made an excellent service record until his death.  Sgt. Daniel is reported to be the first Marine casualty of World War II to be returned to Johnson County from overseas. Surviving are his father, Proctor Daniel, of this city, his mother, Mrs. Nola Rousch, Chicago, Ill., two sisters, Mrs. LaVada Parenti and Mrs. Mary Barnes, Chicago, Illinois. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Scott Castle at the Sugar Grove Baptist Church at 10:00 A. M., Friday, April 29. Burial was in the Daniel family cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 05/05/1949
DAVIS, Eva Gertrude (Wheeler)
1893-1944
Funeral services were held in Ashland Tuesday for Mrs. Eva Gertrude  Davis, 51, wife of Willard T. Davis, who died Saturday night at the  Kings Daughters' Hospital in that city following a serious illness of  six days, which had its inception with a cerebral hemorrhage.  The  body was brought to Paintsville for burial in the Mayo Cemetery  immediately following the services at Ashland. Mrs. Davis was born December 17, 1893, at Salyersville, daughter of  Mrs. Pauline Cooper Wheeler, city and the late Daniel J. Wheeler.  She  lived in Paintsville until thirteen years ago when she moved to Ashland.  Surviving in addition to her mother and husband are one daughter, Cpl.  Anna May Davis, WAC, stationed at Homestead, Fla., two sons, James A.  Davis and William H. Davis, both of Baltimore; four brothers, Clarence  A. and J. Bruce Wheeler both of Dayton, O., and Hannibal F. and Orien  Wheeler of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 20, 1944
DUTTON, Ben
1944
BEN DUTTON AND ALBERT HALL BURIED BY LOCAL  FUNERAL HOME
The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company has reported the deaths of Ben Dutton, Boons Camp and Albert Hall, Meally, each of whom died from a heart ailment. Mr. Dutton passed away on July 13, 1944, at his home after an illness of several months.  He was 76 years of age.  His wife preceded him in death a few years ago.  He was laid to rest on July 14, the Elder Winfrey Meek having charge of the funeral.  He had been a farmer and had made his home at Meally his entire life.  He belonged to the United Baptist Church. Survivors are the following children:  Willie and Mrs. Mary Daniel at Boons Camp, Birgil Dutton, US Army, Mrs. Flossie Fannin and Nelson Dutton in Ohio; two brothers; William at Boons Camp and Mose at River. Mr. Hall was 58 at the time of his death which occurred  Monday morning at his home at Meally. He too had been ill several months. Surviving are his father, Johnnie Hall, and a son Clarence who live at Meally, a sister, Mrs. Colista Craft, and a brother, Jerry Hall who resides in West Virginia.  He was a member of the Church of Christ. Funeral services were held for Mr. Hall Tuesday afternoon at the home of his son in Meally with Leonard Webb and Herschell  Short officiating. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-20-1944
FAIRCHILD, Lawrence
1892-1944
OBITUARY
Lawrence Fairchild was born September 9, 1892, deceased July 06, 1944, age 52 years, 9 months and 27 days. He was the son of Thomas and Elizabeth Jones ‘Conley’ Fairchild. He leaves to mourn their loss his wife Ollie McKenzie Fairchild, one son Hubert Fairchild of Kenwood, two daughters, Mrs. Moncie Williams, Baltimore, Md., and Mrs. Maggie Smith of Kenwood and seven grandchildren, two brothers James Fairchild and Henry Fairchild, both of Kenwood and 6 sisters, Alice Colvin of Mine Fork, Mary McCarty of Lakeville, Ky., Rebecca Blanton, of Win, Sarah Blanton of Paintsville, Darcus Blanton, Ellen Blanton both of Kenwood, Loucine Blanton and his parents have preceded him  in death. He made peace with God and enjoyed telling his family and friends not to worry he had a better home awaiting him. He bore his suffering patiently tell his children to prepare to meet him. So sleep on dear one, take thy rest, We’re lonesome here without you, but God knows best. Lawrence also leaves to mourn his going a host of relatives and friends.  Like Job after all his pain and suffering, he said “I know my redeemer liveth”. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-13-1944
GAISKI, Jon
1944
Gaiski Dies In Van Lear Coal Mines
Three Others Barely Escape Large Slate Fall In a tragic accident at Van Lear last Friday, Jon Gaiski, 62 and one of the oldest employees of the Consolidation Coal Company’s Van Lear mine, lost his life.  Three other men, Canie Conley, Green Burke and Ganes Rice who were working with Gaiski were uninjured. It is understood that the four men were pulling steel from a worked-out section of the mine when slate, said to be fifteen inches thick and sixty-seven feet long fell.  The three who escaped were reported to be at the front end of the car on which the steel was being loaded and jumped from under the falling slate.  Gaiski who it is said was at the back of the car could not get out of the way in time.  He died shortly after his arrival at the Paintsville Hospital where he was rushed after the accident. The dead man had been a resident of Van Lear for thirty-two years.  It is reported that Mr. Gaiski had intended to retire from his work within a short time. A son, Walter, was killed in Italy in January of this year. Surviving are his wife Frances and several children who were all present for the funeral services conducted Tuesday morning with the exception of a daughter who was ill.  Rev. R. R. Ross officiated at the services. Burial was made in the cemetery by the side of his home under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald 7-20-1944
HALL, Albert
1944
BEN DUTTON AND ALBERT HALL BURIED BY LOCAL  FUNERAL HOME
The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company has reported the deaths of Ben Dutton, Boons Camp and Albert Hall, Meally, each of whom died from a heart ailment. Mr. Dutton passed away on July 13, 1944, at his home after an illness of several months.  He was 76 years of age.  His wife preceded him in death a few years ago.  He was laid to rest on July 14, the Elder Winfrey Meek having charge of the funeral.  He had been a farmer and had made his home at Meally his entire life.  He belonged to the United Baptist Church. Survivors are the following children:  Willie and Mrs. Mary Daniel at Boons Camp, Birgil Dutton, US Army, Mrs. Flossie Fannin and Nelson Dutton in Ohio; two brothers; William at Boons Camp and Mose at River. Mr. Hall was 58 at the time of his death which occurred  Monday morning at his home at Meally. He too had been ill several months. Surviving are his father, Johnnie Hall, and a son Clarence who live at Meally, a sister, Mrs. Colista Craft, and a brother, Jerry Hall who resides in West Virginia.  He was a member of the Church of Christ. Funeral services were held for Mr. Hall Tuesday afternoon at the home of his son in Meally with Leonard Webb and Herschell  Short officiating. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-20-1944
HAMPTON, Gladys (Stephenson)
1944
MRS. JOHN S. HAMPTON DIES SUDDENLY
Relatives here have been otified of the sudden death of Mrs. John S. Hampton who died Wednesday afternoon July 19 at her home at Glo.  The body will be brought to Johnson County, where funeral services will be conducted at the Hampton family Cem., at Wittensville at 3 P.M. Friday.  Mrs. Hampton, who was 38 years of age.  She had had a stroke some time ago and it is understoond that high blood pressure caused her death.  She is survived by her husband who is superintendent of the North East Coal Co.'s Glogore mines and by four children.  She is well known in Paintsville where her sudden death will bring sorrow to friends and relatives. Paintsville Herald  July 20, 1944 
HANNAH, Jane
1944
Elderly Hager Hill Woman Dies
Mrs. Jane Hannah, widow of Andy Hannah, passed away July 5, 1944, after an eight weeks’ illness.  She was buried at Denver on July 6, 1944. Mrs. Hannah had come to this county from North Carolina and was 73 years of age at the time of her death. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-13-1944
HAYES, June Geraldine
1944
OHIO RIVER VICTIM IS BURIED SUNDAY
The body of Miss June Geraldine Hayes, 17 year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Zeal Hayes, of near Adams, in Lawrence County, was returned to her parents' home from Ashland funeral home for burial Sunday. The young woman met death together with an Ashland soldier, Pvt. Robert Stanley Scott, 19, in the Ohio River at Catlettsburg at midnight, July 10 (1944).  The drowning termed accidental by Dr. J. C. Hall, Boyd County Coroner, occured at the foot of 12th Street in Catlettsburg near the towboat "Midway Island", moored there. At the inquest held Tuesday in Catlettsburg, Howard Spradlin, 24, of Denver, Ky., a deckhand on the Midway Island, testified that he had just completed a tour of the boat with the couple  and the girl's sister, Mrs. Maude Bowman, Ashland, when the two disappeared from the lower deck. Mrs. Bowman stated they were in a rowboat tying up to the Midway Island when her sister fell into the water and that Scott dived in but failed to come up to the surface. The bodies were recovered within an hour from the accident. At the funeral Sunday memorial rites were conducted for Pvt. Charles Hayes, brother of the dead girl, who was killed in action in Italy four months ago.  The two are grandchildren of Mr. and Mrs. William Hayes, George's Creek and Mrs. D. B. Johnson, of Louisa. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 7-20-1944
HOLBROOK, Pleasant Tilden
1876-1944
PLEASANT T HOLBROOK Stroke Fatal To Widely Known Paintsville Citizen
Funeral services were held Tuesday, July 18, for Pleasant Tilden Holbrook, who died at his home last Friday following a stroke a few days previously. Mr. Holbrook was born November 7, 1876 and passed away July 14, 1944, age 67 years, 8 months, and 7 days.  He was the son of Lorenzo Dow Holbrook and Emily Holbrook of Red Bush, Ky.  He was the oldest of a family of four sons born of this union: Prof. Campbell Scotland Holbrook, Paris, Ky., Alonzo Holbrook, Ashland, Ky., and James Hargis Holbrook, deceased.  His mother died when he was ten years old, and later, his father married Phoebe Pennington.  To this union were born four brothers: John H. Holbrook, and Morton Holbrook, Red Bush, Ky., and Charles Wilson Holbrook and Bryan Holbrook, deceased; and four sisters: Mrs. Earl Auxier, Manilla, Ky., Mrs. Howard Schuff, Ashland, Mrs. Hatler Johnson, Paintsville, Ky., Mrs. Ollie Fyffe, Red Bush, Ky. He was married to Carrie M. Bailey of Red Bush, Ky., April 16, 1902. To this union was born one son, Fred Burgess Holbrook, of Paintsville, Ky.  His wife died July 1, 1909 and on April 16, 1916, he was married to Miss Gertrude Auxier to which union was born one son, James Hargis Holbrook, deceased. He spent the early years of his life at Red Bush, Ky., the place of his birth.  He was educated in the schools of Johnson County, and taught school five years in Johnson and Morgan counties. He was a merchant and the postmaster at Red Bush for fifteen years.  After the death of his first wife he retired from the postoffice and the mercantile business and went on the road as a traveling salesman for 25 years until he retired because of impaired health.  He was a successful salesman and business man, and during the later years of his business career he helped to organize the Ohio Valley Coffee Corporation of Portsmouth, Ohio.  He was a stockholder and a director in that corporation until his death.  After his retirement from active business he became interested in the civic and school affairs of his town.  He served eight years on the city school board of Paintsville, and he was a member of the board at the time of his death.  Several years before his death he made a profession of the Christian faith. He had a keen distinction between right and wrong, and was uncompromising in upholding the right as he saw and understood it. He loved his home and his family with high devotion. Loyalty to his convictions, his home, and family and friends was the notable attribute of his character. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 20, 1944
JOHNSON, William Jefferson
1944
Father of Local Man Succumbs
William Jefferson Johnson passed away Friday night at his home at Weeksbury at the age of 72. He had been in failing health the past year and a half.  He was buried at Weeksbury Sunday afternoon.  His wife preceded him in death seven years ago. Surviving are four sons, Hatler, city; M.C. Johnson and W. C. Johnson, Jenkins and F. D. Johnson, Wheelwright. Paintsville Herald Thursday, July 27,1944
LIGUERS, Laura (Ward)
1944
Native Woman Dies  At Detroit
Mrs. Luella Reed of Auxier Ky.; was called to Detroit Mich.; on July the eighth For the funeral of her sister, Mrs. Laura Liguers who will be remembered as Laura Ward the daughter of Will S. Ward{deceased} of Boons Camp, where she spent her Early life. She was 58 years old. Married 25 years ago to Nicholus Liguers of Detroit where they made their home. Another sister Mrs. Joe Roberts of Pike County and a niece Mrs. Ira Osborn of Wheelwright also attended the funeral at the beautiful Grandlawn Cemetery at Radford Mich.; One brother Joe Ward of Boons Camp survives and a host Of other relatives and friends who will be grieved by her death. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 20,1944
LITTERAL, Newt
1944
Two more county boys have been reported killed in France and a third has been killed in New Guinea, according to telegrams received by relatives.  Two others are reported missing, and several boys have been wounded. Pvt. Frank Music was killed in France on July 4, his mother, Mrs. Maggie Music, was notified on July 29 at her residence in LaFontaine, Ind.  Pvt. Music was 22 and was serving in the infantry.  He had been in the army only eight months, two of which had been spent overseas. He received his training at Camp Wheeler, Macon, Ga.  The last letter to his mother had been written on July 27 and was received by her on July 11.  Originally from Van Lear he had moved to Indiana where for five years he had been employed on the Victor Minnick farm.  His family moved to Indiana three years ago.  He is survived in addition to his by three brothers, Bill, Earlie and Lenzie, and two sisters, Mrs. Elvie Daniels, and Mrs. Malvie Music.  He was a nephew of Mrs. Tera Dollarhide and Melvin and T. H. Butcher of Van lear.  A picture of this youth was published in the Herald on July 27. Pfc. Charles Arms was killed on July 18 in New Guinea, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Elijah (Coug) Arms, East Point, were notified August 7. He was 26 and was a timberman when he volunteered on June 2, 1941. Another county boy reported dead is S.Sgt. Newt Litteral, son of Mrs. Cora Litteral, Riceville and husband of Mrs. Christine Litteral, Conley, Ky.  He was killed in action in France on July 19.  He was 28 and volunteered on April 8, 1941.  He has a brother Edward in service. Reported missing in France, is Pvt. Leonard Meek, son of Mrs. Asa (Mariah) Meek, city.  The telegram stated that he had been missing in France since July 10 and that any other information available would be sent his mother.  The boy was 19 and entered the service on September 27, 1943.  A picture of Pvt. Meek was included in the July 13 issue of the Herald. Also reported missing is S.Sgt. Sidney E. Brown, member of a bomber crew in the AAF stationed in Italy who has been missing since July 22, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. Elbert Brown, Williamsburg, O., were notified August 4.  They are former residents of this county where their son is well known. Seriously wounded in France on July 13, Pvt. Luther Fitzpatrick, Jr., 26, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Fitzpatrick, Hager Hill.  He entered the service on September 1, 1942, and was in the timber business with Charles Arms, whose name appears above. Pvt. Victor Honeycutt, son of Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm Honeycutt, West Van Lear, was reported August 4 as seriously wounded in France.  He enlisted on December 10, 1940.  His brother Joe is in the Pacific area. (Another shipment of surgical dressing material has been received by the local Red Cross. The shipment now being completed must be sent immediately.  Workers are needed.  Come.) Casualties in adjoining counties are as follows: S.Sgt. Eckel Maynard, son of Mr. and Mrs. Maynard, Stidham, was seriously wounded in action in France on July 21. Pvt. Henry Horne, Jr., son of Mrs. Lucy Horne, Inez, was slightly injured in action in France on July 10. Pvt. Robert L. Hale, son of Mrs. Bertha Hale, Pilgrim, was seriously wounded July 27 in France. Pvt. Charlie Wiley, son of Lizzie Wiley, Inez, was slightly wounded in action in France on July 10. Sgt. Oval G. Amyx, son of Mrs. Edna Amyx of Bethanna in Magoffin county, has been reported missing in action since June 6 in France. Pfc. Harold Adams, son of Lloyd Adams, Conley, Ky., was slightly wounded in action in France on July 9. Pvt. Orvil Salyer, son of Lacy Salyer, Carver in Magoffin County, slightly wounded in France on July 13. Sgt. Claude Cantrell, Jr., son of Claude Cantrell, Salyersville, slightly woulded in action in France on June 24. It is understood that William E. Tackett of Lowmansville had been reported as a prisoner of the Japanese government. A telegram was delivered Wednesday to Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lemaster, Falcon, reporting their son Morris Lemaster, Boatswains Mate, 2c, previously reported as missing in action to be a survivor. Paintsville Herald Thursday  August 10, 1944
MCKENZIE, Violet (Ford)
1944
Young Mother Is Victim Of T.B.
Violet Ford McKenzie, 37, wife of Ray McKenzie, Volga, died July 1 after a year's illness from tuberculosis.  In addition to her husband she is survived by five children, Jewell Francis, Ray Jr., Virginia and Kenneth. Mrs. McKenzie was born at Kingsport, Tenn.  She had been married to Mr. McKenzie 10 years. Funeral services were held Sunday, July 2, at Volga, the Elders Lonza Reed and W. H. McKenzie preaching.  The Preston Funeral Home was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday July 3, 1944
MEEK, Leonard
1925-1944
Pvt. Leonard Meek
Pvt. Meek, 19, son of Mrs. Asa (Mariah) Meek, city, has been reported killed on July 10 in France.  He previously was reported missing in action on July 10, but a War Department telegram received on August 10 by his mother listed him as having been killed. An infantryman with the 83rd Division, Pvt. Meek entered the army in October, 1943, and had been overseas since May, 1944.  In civilian life he was employed by the State Highway Department. Pvt. Meek had his training at Camp Wheeler, Ga.  In April of this year, he was given a thirteen day furlough which he spent with his mother and brothers and sisters before going on to Ft. Geo. G. Meade, Md.  While training at Camp Wheeler, he qualified as an expert marksman with the rifle, the mortar, the hand grenade and the machine gun, bayonet, pistol and carbine. In addition to his mother, Pvt. Meek leaves two sisters, Mrs. Russell Reneer, Jackson, Mich., and Mrs. Ray Smith, Henlamson, W.Va., three brothers, Clarence and Authie of Jackson, Mich., and Virgil, city. Paintsville Herald, Thursday, August 17, 1944 (NOTE: Leonard was born in January of 1925, son of Asa Meek and Mary Alice "Mariah" Davis Meek.  Asa's parents were Nathan Meek and Columbia J. Webb Meek.)
 

MEEK, Leonard
1944
Two Soldiers returned for Reburial Final Rites for Cpl. S. E. Welch and PFC Leonard Meeks The bodies of the two Johnson County soldiers, Cpl Samuel E. Welch of Concord and PFC Leonard Meeks, also of Concord arrived last week from overseas cemeteries for reburial. Both Soldiers were killed in the early days of the invasion of France and their deaths were only a few hours apart. CPL Welch was 25 years of age at the time of his death. He was killed in France on July 11, 1944. He was a member of the Christian Church. Surviving besides his parents are one daughter, Mary Brian Welch of Beaver, Ohio and one brother, John Welch, city and three sisters, Mrs. Chester Witten, Sitka; Mrs. John C. Davis, city, and Mrs. Albert Skauge, city. Funeral services were held at the home of his parents Saturday at 1pm., by Rev JH Short and the Rev Spurgeon Honeycutt. Burial was made in the family cemetery PFC Meek,s born January 25, 1925 was 19 at the time of his death. Surviving besides his mother are three brothers and two sisters, Virgil meek, Clarence Meek and Authie Meek of Paintsville, and two sisters Mrs. Raymond Smith, Monaville, W Va., and Mrs.. Russell Reneer of Jackson, Mich. Funeral services were held at the Concord Church Sunday at 10 a.m. by Revs Leonard Walters, Elza Banks, Winfrey Meek, and Sylvah Lewis. Burial was made in the Wheeler Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday Feb.07 1948

MESSER, William G.
1944
W.G. MESSER RITES AT VAN LEAR
The body of William G. Messer, aged 81, was laid to rest in the Van Lear Cemetery on Wednesday, July 05, 1944.    Mr. Messer died on July 03, 1944, Red Ash, VA., where he had made his home for three years.  Before that time he had resided for twenty-five years at Van Lear where he was an employee of the Consolidation Coal Co.  He was a native of Carter Co., KY. The Preston Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-13-1944
MOLLETTE, Rafe
1944
Funeral Home  Report 2 Deaths
The Preston Funeral Home reports the two following deaths: Dixie Ratliff, sixteen year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Burns Ratliff, Patrick, died, Saturday, July 29, 1944, at the home from tuberculosis.  Funeral services were held Sunday, July 30, 1944.
 Rafe Mollette, a former citizen of East Point, died at Bowling Green, Ohio, Saturday, July 29, 1944 following a stroke of paralysis.  The body was returned for burial at Denver today, Thursday, August 3, 1944. Mr. Mollette was 70 years of age. Paintsville Herald Thursday 08-03-1944
MUSIC, Frank
1944
Two more county boys have been reported killed in France and a third has been killed in New Guinea, according to telegrams received by relatives.  Two others are reported missing, and several boys have been wounded. Pvt. Frank Music was killed in France on July 4, his mother, Mrs. Maggie Music, was notified on July 29 at her residence in LaFontaine, Ind.  Pvt. Music was 22 and was serving in the infantry.  He had been in the army only eight months, two of which had been spent overseas. He received his training at Camp Wheeler, Macon, Ga.  The last letter to his mother had been written on July 27 and was received by her on July 11.  Originally from Van Lear he had moved to Indiana where for five years he had been employed on the Victor Minnick farm.  His family moved to Indiana three years ago.  He is survived in addition to his by three brothers, Bill, Earlie and Lenzie, and two sisters, Mrs. Elvie Daniels, and Mrs. Malvie Music.  He was a nephew of Mrs. Tera Dollarhide and Melvin and T. H. Butcher of Van lear.  A picture of this youth was published in the Herald on July 27. Pfc. Charles Arms was killed on July 18 in New Guinea, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Elijah (Coug) Arms, East Point, were notified August 7. He was 26 and was a timberman when he volunteered on June 2, 1941. Another county boy reported dead is S.Sgt. Newt Litteral, son of Mrs. Cora Litteral, Riceville and husband of Mrs. Christine Litteral, Conley, Ky.  He was killed in action in France on July 19.  He was 28 and volunteered on April 8, 1941.  He has a brother Edward in service. Reported missing in France, is Pvt. Leonard Meek, son of Mrs. Asa (Mariah) Meek, city.  The telegram stated that he had been missing in France since July 10 and that any other information available would be sent his mother.  The boy was 19 and entered the service on September 27, 1943.  A picture of Pvt. Meek was included in the July 13 issue of the Herald. Also reported missing is S.Sgt. Sidney E. Brown, member of a bomber crew in the AAF stationed in Italy who has been missing since July 22, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. Elbert Brown, Williamsburg, O., were notified August 4.  They are former residents of this county where their son is well known. Seriously wounded in France on July 13, Pvt. Luther Fitzpatrick, Jr., 26, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Fitzpatrick, Hager Hill.  He entered the service on September 1, 1942, and was in the timber business with Charles Arms, whose name appears above. Pvt. Victor Honeycutt, son of Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm Honeycutt, West Van Lear, was reported August 4 as seriously wounded in France.  He enlisted on December 10, 1940.  His brother Joe is in the Pacific area. (Another shipment of surgical dressing material has been received by the local Red Cross. The shipment now being completed must be sent immediately.  Workers are needed.  Come.) Casualties in adjoining counties are as follows: S.Sgt. Eckel Maynard, son of Mr. and Mrs. Maynard, Stidham, was seriously wounded in action in France on July 21. Pvt. Henry Horne, Jr., son of Mrs. Lucy Horne, Inez, was slightly injured in action in France on July 10. Pvt. Robert L. Hale, son of Mrs. Bertha Hale, Pilgrim, was seriously wounded July 27 in France. Pvt. Charlie Wiley, son of Lizzie Wiley, Inez, was slightly wounded in action in France on July 10. Sgt. Oval G. Amyx, son of Mrs. Edna Amyx of Bethanna in Magoffin county, has been reported missing in action since June 6 in France. Pfc. Harold Adams, son of Lloyd Adams, Conley, Ky., was slightly wounded in action in France on July 9. Pvt. Orvil Salyer, son of Lacy Salyer, Carver in Magoffin County, slightly wounded in France on July 13. Sgt. Claude Cantrell, Jr., son of Claude Cantrell, Salyersville, slightly woulded in action in France on June 24. It is understood that William E. Tackett of Lowmansville had been reported as a prisoner of the Japanese government. A telegram was delivered Wednesday to Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lemaster, Falcon, reporting their son Morris Lemaster, Boatswains Mate, 2c, previously reported as missing in action to be a survivor. Paintsville Herald Thursday  August 10, 1944
PRESTON, Lou E. (VanHoose)
1873-1944
Aged Nippa Woman Dies
Death came to Mrs. Lou E. Preston, of Nippa on June 13 after an illness lasting five months. She was 71 years of age at the time of her death. Mrs. Preston was the daughter of the late E. P. and Julia Price VanHoose. She was born at Nippa on March 20, 1873. She was married in 1894 to J. R. Preston. Their children are Mrs. Villa Grim, Glance and Vivian. She is survived by a larger number of relatives and friends who mourn her passing. Funeral arrangements were made by the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald 6-22-44
PRICE, Roy Thomas
1944
ROY THOMAS PRICE IS BURIED HERE
The body of Roy Thomas Price who died in Huntington,(West Virginia) July 24, (1944) was brought to Paintsville for burial in the Mayo Cemetery on July 26.  Funeral services were held in Huntington prior to returning the body here. Mr. Price had been in ill health for sometime and undergone three major operations. Tom, as he was familiarly known around Paintsville spent most of his life in Paintsville. He was graduated at the Paintsville High School.  He left Paintsville a few years ago. Surviving are his wife and one daughter, his mother, Mrs. Sam King, city, and a sister, Mrs. Roma Fox, Norfolk, Va. Price, Roy PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 8-3-1944
RATLIFF, Dixie
1944
Funeral Home  Report 2 Deaths
The Preston Funeral Home reports the two following deaths: Dixie Ratliff, sixteen year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Burns Ratliff, Patrick, died, Saturday, July 29, 1944, at the home from tuberculosis.  Funeral services were held Sunday, July 30, 1944.
     
Rafe Mollette, a former citizen of East Point, died at Bowling Green, Ohio, Saturday, July 29, 1944 following a stroke of paralysis.  The body was returned for burial at Denver today, Thursday, August 3, 1944.  Mr. Mollette was 70 years of age. Paintsville Herald Thursday 08-03-1944
ROSS, Harold
1944
Capt. and Mrs. Harold Ross Mr. and Mrs. Ross McFaddin, city, learned last week that their son-in-law, Capt Harold Ross, was killed instantly on July 4, when the B-25 Mitchell bomber which he was flying plunged into the ground near high tension wires at Memphis, Tenn. Capt. Ross was flying safety supervisor of the Central Sector of the Ferrying Division, stationed with Army Air Forces base unit at Fairfax Field, Kansas City, Mo. Captain Ross' parents came from his home in New York to accompany the body home for burial. His wife, a Wave stationed at Memphis, went with them to New York. The young couple were married six months ago and were planning on a trip to Paintsville in August. The McFaddins have lost one son, Virgil, who was killed in the African battle, and another son Russell, has been a prisoner of the Germans two years. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-20-1944
SALYER, Polly (Price)
1944
Heart Disease Is Fatal To Mrs. Salyer
The victim of heart disease, Mrs. Polly Salyer, city died, Saturday, July 1, 1944, at the age of 61.  The daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ham Price, she was married to Buell Salyer, their children being Mrs. Zack Reffett, city, and Mrs. Tony Tackett, Prestonsburg. Mrs. Salyer was a native of Magoffin County, and funeral services were held in that county at Falcon on, Sunday, July 2, 1944, with Rev. Scott Castle preaching.  She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. The Paintsville Funeral Company was in charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 07-06-1944
SCUTCHFIELD, Orville
1944
HUSBAND OF THELMA GIRL IS KILLED
Relatives have been notified that Orville Scutchfield, 22, of Wheelwright, was killed in action in the French Invasion. He is the husband of the former Roberta Louise Ferguson, of Thelma, who last heard from him on July 4 when she received two letters dated June 21 and 23.  He had seen action in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of war.  He volunteered for service from Floyd County on October 13, 1942, and a year  after escaped injury when his ship was sunk. He was married to Miss Ferguson on December 7, 1943. A graduate of Prestonsburg High School, he had attended Caney Creek Junior College and was a motorman at Wheelwright before entering the service. Scutchfield, Orville PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 7-20-1944
SHORT, Vina (Preston)
1944
VINA SHORT
Well Loved Mother Dies Funeral services were held at the home Wednesday morning for Mrs. Vina Short, 63 years of age of Meally who died Monday morning following a stroke suffered several days ago. Mrs. Short was a good Christian mother, devoted to her family and she will be missed by her children and community in which she lived. Her husband, Wellman Short died in 1929. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Edna Pack, Van Lear; and four sons, Dan Short, Van Lear, Warnie Short, Meally, Ben Short and Wellman, both of the U.S. Army; her aged mother, Mrs. Clista Preston, who was present at the funeral, and by two brothers and two sisters, Lafe and Sam Preston, Susie Short and Mrs. Mary Jennings, all of Meally. Funeral services were by Rev. Elzie Banks, after which burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 7-20-1944
WELCH, Samuel E.
1917-1944
SAMUEL E. WELCH CITY BOY KILLED
Originally reported, seriously wounded in action in France, Samuel E. Welch has now been reported killed. He is 27, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Epperson Welch, city, and entered the army on July.15 1941. Survivors are the parents, one child, a sister, Mrs Evelyn Skauge of Dayton and a brother John who is in the services in Florida. Paintsville herald Thursday Dec.07 1944 CPL. SAMUEL EPPERSON WELCH JR Cpl. Samuel E. Welch, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel E. Welch, Paintsville, died in France, July 14, 1945 of wounds received the same day. Junior, as he was called by his friends, was born October 29, 1917. He entered the armed forces on July 15, 1941 and went overseas Sept. 1, 1943. He was made a Cpl., before leaving the states and was among the first to go to France after D-Day. He is survived by one daughter, Mary Brian Welch, his parents, one brother Pvt. John Welch with the U S Army in France, and three sisters, Mrs. Chester Witten, Mrs. Johnnie Davis, and Mrs. Albert A, Skauge, also a host of  many friends and relatives. Junior was a boy whom everybody loved. He was loved by his teachers in school and by everyone with whom he worked. No responsibility was too difficult or too big as he believed in doing his work well. The Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-7-1944
 

WELCH, Samuel E.
1944
Two Soldiers returned for Reburial Final Rites for Cpl. S. E. Welch and PFC Leonard Meeks The bodies of the two Johnson County soldiers, Cpl Samuel E. Welch of Concord and PFC Leonard Meeks, also of Concord arrived last week from overseas cemeteries for reburial. Both Soldiers were killed in the early days of the invasion of France and their deaths were only a few hours apart. CPL Welch was 25 years of age at the time of his death. He was killed in France on July 11, 1944. He was a member of the Christian Church. Surviving besides his parents are one daughter, Mary Brian Welch of Beaver, Ohio and one brother, John Welch, city and three sisters, Mrs. Chester Witten, Sitka; Mrs. John C. Davis, city, and Mrs. Albert Skauge, city. Funeral services were held at the home of his parents Saturday at 1pm., by Rev JH Short and the Rev Spurgeon Honeycutt. Burial was made in the family cemetery PFC Meek,s born January 25, 1925 was 19 at the time of his death. Surviving besides his mother are three brothers and two sisters, Virgil meek, Clarence Meek and Authie Meek of Paintsville, and two sisters Mrs. Raymond Smith, Monaville, W Va., and Mrs.. Russell Reneer of Jackson, Mich. Funeral services were held at the Concord Church Sunday at 10 a.m. by Revs Leonard Walters, Elza Banks, Winfrey Meek, and Sylvah Lewis. Burial was made in the Wheeler Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday Feb.07 1948
WILLIAMS, Kendall
1944
Winifred Man Buried Sun.
Kendall Williams Dies After Long Illness
Death came to Kendall Williams, 32, at his home at Winifred on July 8, 1944. He had been ill the past two years and had spent two months last year in a Huntington Hospital where he had undergone an operation. Services with Elders Dennis Williams and Hermie Davis in charge were held Sunday at the home. Mr. Williams was a member of the Frank's Creek United Baptist Church. He had lived his entire life at Winifred where he was a farmer. Surviving are his wife, the former Opal Cantrell whom he married ten years ago, four children, Arline, Delores, Kermit and Grace, his parents, L.P. and Dora Wheeler Williams, and the following brothers and sisters; Henry and Hood at Huntington; Herbert, Clairmore, Ohio; O.I. city; Mrs. Mrs. Maxine Shepherd, Oddie, Wayne and Russell at Ashland; Loy, Staffordsville; and Mrs. Dixie Fyffe, Keaton. The Preston Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday  July 13, 1944

AUGUST - 1944


ADAMS, William
1944
Salyersville Man Dies
The Preston Funeral Home reports the death of William Adams 72 year old resident of Salyersville, who passed away at his home on Auguest 5 after suffering a stroke. Burial was made August 6 in the Tackett Cemetery. Mr. Adams is survivied by his wife, Millie Jenkins Adams, two brothers, one of whom, Kelly lives in Tutor Key, and four sisters. The Paintsville Herald 8-10-1944
BLEVINS, Dona (McKenzie)
1944
KING ADDITION  WOMAN SUCCUMBS
Mrs. Dona Blevins, 40, died at her home in King Addition, Wednesday, August 2, after an illness of six weeks.  The funeral was held on August 4 by the Rev. Harry Salyer, and burial was made on the hill in back of the home. Mrs. Blevins is survived by her husband, Lewis Blevins, eight children, her mother, Mrs. S. McKenzie and one sister, Mrs. Pina Ratliff, both of Staffordsville.  She was considered a good Christian woman, having her membership with the Holiness church. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-17-1944
BROWN, Homer J.
1944
KILLED AUG. 5
Homer J. Brown Victim In Cleveland
The body of Homer J. Brown who was killed instantly Sunday morning at work as a railroad switchman at the Pennsylvania Railroad yards in Cleveland, Ohio, was returned to the home at Relief by the Preston Funeral Home, and services were conducted Wednesday at the church at that place. The dead man was 32 years old. He was a farmer and carpenter and had gone to Cleveland only two weeks ago for employment by the railroad company. He was the son of Mrs. W. N. Brown and the late W. N. Brown who died ten years ago. His wife, Edna H. Bailey, and two young sons, and the following brothers and sisters survive in addition to his mother; Ernest F. Paintsville, barber who lives at Red Bush, Dewey E., Relief, Mrs. Effie M. Coldiron, Fayetteville, O., Maxie M. Isom, East Chicago, Ind., and Edward W. Brown and Arthur Holding Brown, both in service in the South Pacific. Paintsville Herald Thursday 08-10-1944
BUTCHER, Leroy
1944 INFANT BURIED AUG. 14
Under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home, the body of one year old Leroy Butcher, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Butcher was laid to rest at White House on Monday, August 14. The infant who had been ill since birth died Sunday. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 8-17-1944
CRACE, Paris L.
1944
BUSINESS MAN DIES IN LOUISVILLE
Paris L. Crace passed away late Friday afternoon at a Louisville Hospital where he was taken soon after suffering a stroke Thursday at West Baden, Indiana.  Mr. and Mrs. Crace had left this city a few days previously for an extended vacation. The body was returned to Paintsville by the Jones Funeral Home and was prepared for burial and taken to Mrs. Crace's native home in Ivyton, Magoffin County, Sunday.  Services were not conducted until Wednesday awaiting the arrival of a brother from Wenatchee, Wash. Survivng are Mrs. Crace, an only child, Paris, now serving with the Marines in the Pacific, the father, George Crace; three brothers, Dallas at Campbellsville, Ky., Delbert, with the U.S. Navy in the Pacific, Don of Wenatchee, Wash.; three sisters, Mrs. Bruce Howard, Knox, Ind., Elma Howard, Ypsilanti, Mich. and Gaynelle Trimble, Ashland. Mr. Crace was well known in business circles in this area.  A native of Magoffin County, he had made his home in Paintsville the past twenty one years, the majority of which were spent as manager of the H. M. Howard Motor Co., and the Dr. Pepper Bottling Company. He was 45 years old at the time of his death. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 8-31-1944
CRISLIP, Ed
1944
Man Struck By Truck Succumbs Tuesday
Ed Crislip, 87 year old citizen of Staffordsville, died at nine o’clock Tuesday night, his death, according to a coroner’s jury report, the result of injuries received when struck by a truck driven by Turrell Blair on August 30.  He died at a local hospital where he was taken immediately after the accident. Funeral services were held at the home this morning, burial being made by the Preston Funeral Home at Kerz, Ky. Surviving are his wife and a number of children. Paintsville Herald 9-7-1944
DANIELS, Lizzie (Brooks)
1884-1944
Lizzie Daniel Dies August 17, 1944
Large Family Mourns Loss of Mother Mrs. Lizzie Daniels, born on October 7, 1884, at River, Ky., passed away August 17, 1944 at the Paintsville Clinic.  She was converted and joined the United Baptist Church at Locust Grove in February, 1913, living a devout Christian life for thirty-one years. In 1905, she was married to W. L. Daniel of Nippa, and to this union was born the following children; Mrs. Alka Grim, River; Roy Daniel, city; Mrs. Luka Adams, Kingstone, O.; Mrs. Luey Castle, Lowmansville; Ray Daniel, David; Bert Daniel, Lowmansville; Mrs. Edith Walters, Williamsport; Mrs. Ruby King, Baltimore, Md.; and Dorothy Crane, Clifftop, West Va.  Two children, Raymond and Mariah, preceded her in death.  Also surviving are her husband, one sister, Etta Castle, three brothers, David, George and Dow Brooks,  Twenty-three grandchildren, two great grandchildren and a host of friends and relatives to mourn her passing. Funeral services were held Saturday at the George’s Creek Church by Revs. Foster Grim and Dennis Culwell, interment following in the family cemetery at the home place, the Preston Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Daniel had lived in this county her entire life until four years ago when she and her husband had moved to Clifftop, W. Va.  She had been ill three weeks, returning to the local hospital for treatment. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-17-1944
HALL, Cort
1944
VAN LEAR  MINER DIES
Funeral services were held Friday morning at the Freewill Baptist Church, Lowmansville, for Cort Hall who died in a local hospital following a short illness of acute nephritis. Revs. Bird Webb and Millard Van Hoose officiated, after which the body was taken to Charley, Ky. where burial was made under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home with the I. O. O. F. Lodge taking charge at the grave. Mr. Hall had lived in Van Lear for several years and sometime ago had purchased a home on Georges Creek and moved his family there. However, he had continued his work at the mines and had worked up until a few days before his illness. Surviving are several children and two sisters; Mrs. Dora Preston, Thealka, and Mrs. Ellen Castle, Lowmansville. August 10, 1944 Thursday Paintsville Herald
HONEYCUTT, Christine (Webb)
1944
MOTHER OF EIGHT CHILDREN DIES
Sudden death claimed Mrs. Christine Honeycutt, 73 year old mother of West Van  Lear at her home on Sunday, August 13, 1944. She had been ill the past six  months from a heart ailment. The funeral was held at the Cedar Grove Church  Wednesday morning followed by burial at Odds, Kentucky under the direction of  the funeral department of the Paintsville Furniture Company. Services were  conducted by Elders Grover Fannings, Winfrey Meek and Elzie Banks. Mrs. Honeycutt is survived by eight children, Malcolm, Willie and Alic at  West Van Lear; George at Meally, Melvin in Detroit, Michigan, Mrs. Sol  Burchett at Odds, Mrs. Frank Smith of Wayland, and Mrs. Roy Denver of  Lucasville, Ohio. She is also survived by one brother, Lewis Andrew Webb at  East Point, thirty grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was  endearling known to all her relatives and friends as "Aunt Tene" PAINTSVILLE HERALD AUGUST 17, 1944
HONEYCUTT, William
1944
WILLIAM HONEYCUTT YOUNG MINER DIES IN ACCIDENT
William Honeycutt, 39, of Auxier died Friday night, his death the result of a broken neck sustained that day when he dived from a springboard into about three feet of water in the Big Sandy River. His head hit the bottom with such force that his neck was broken, death coming about six hours after the accident. Mr. Honeycutt had worked in the mines Friday, and it was after he had returned home for supper that he and his older children went to the river for a swim. He is survived by his wife, Ruby, a grandaughter of Mrs. Ida McKenzie, who passed away that same day, six children, one sister, Mrs. Alka Wolfe, and two brothers, Orville and Virgil, all of Auxier. He is also survived by his stepmother, Mrs. Emma Honeycutt and several half brothers and sisters. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Auxier Church, with Revs. S.C. Honeycutt and W.H. Horne in charge. Funeral and burial were under the directions of the Jones Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 1944
JONES, Lena
1907-1944
FORMER TEACHER HERE SUCCUMBS
Miss Lena Jones, daughter of AR and Sara (Blevins) Jones, died at Springfield, August 17, 1944. Miss Jones had been in poor health several years. She was born in the county, on July 17, 1907. She was a member of the Little Gap Union Church of New Regular Baptist, and was a former teacher in the Johnson County Schools. Surviving are her father, a daughter, Barbara Sue, three brother, Lemmie, Lewis and George Curtis, three sisters, Lillie Jessie and Mrs. Virgil Conley. Her mother preceded her in death in 1939. The body was returned to the home place at Kerz where funeral services were held with Rev. Harry Salyer, Rev. Fred Crislip, Rev. Arthur Ramey and Rev. Bruce Daniel officiating.  The Jones Funeral Home had charge of the arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-31-1944
LILLY, Fannie (Hyden)
1944
FANNIE LILLY EAST POINT  WOMAN DIES
Mrs. Mont Lilly, East Point died in a Hintington Hospital early Wednesday morning after several weeks illness. An ambulance of the undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Co., went to Hntington Wednesday to bring the body to Paintsville for preparation for burial. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. SUnday at the Church of Christ in East Point. Paintsville Herald Thursday 8-3-1944 NOTE: Fannie was the wife of Mont Lilly, and the daughter of Samuel & Alice Rice Hyden Fannie & Mont married in  J.C. Ky on Aug.20 1915
MCKENZIE, Ida (Stephens)
1875-1944
Aged Auxier Woman Succumbs
Mrs. Ida McKenzie, 68, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Tivis Little, at Wheelwright, early Friday morning following an illness of several months duration. Services were held at the Auxier Church Tuesday afternoon with Revs. W. H. Horn and H. F. Castle in charge. Mrs. McKenzie is survived by her husband, Troy McKenzie and three sons, Homer, Willard and Troy, Jr., three daughters, Hazel, Inis and Dorothy, and thirty grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. Burial was made in the Auxier cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 10, 1944
MRS. IDA STEPHENS MCKENZIE Ida Stephens McKenzie was born at Star, Ky., August 22, 1875. She deceased this life at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Tivis Little, Wheelwright, Ky., August 4, 1944, at the age of 66 years, 11 months, and 18 days. She was united in marriage to Troy McKenzie, July 2, 1892 and to this union were born nine children, three of whom are deceased, one daughter, Mrs. Ethel Little, and two sons, Walter and John Wesley McKenzie. Mrs. McKenzie is survived by her husband, Troy McKenzie, of Auxier, three daughters, Mrs. Hazel Taylor, Dorothy McKenzie of Columbus, Ohio, and Mrs. Inez Little, Wheelwright, three sons, Homer, Willard, and Troy McKenzie, Jr., Auxier.  In addition to her immediate family she also leaves one brother, Tommy Stephens, Toledo, O., one sister, Mrs. Laura Coyer, Denham, Ky., thirty grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. Mrs. McKenzie was a devoted Christian, having been converted into the Freewill Baptist Church in 1921. Her passing is mourned by a host of friends and relatives, although the bereaved can rest assured and be comforted in knowing that she has passed on to her reward because she left this world shouting the praise of the Lord. The family of Mrs. McKenzie wish to thank all who assisted in the death and burial of our mother. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 17, 1944
SKAGGS, Okel
1924-1944
SKAGGS 44TH CASUALTY
Mr. and Mrs. John M. Skaggs of Cordell, have been notified their son Okel has been killed in action.  He was born at Relief on Wednesday, March 19, 1924, and was living in this county when he entered the service on Wednesday, June 17, 1943.  He is a grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Cornelious Skaggs, Gillem Branch. Three local youths have been reported slightly injured. Pvt. Ira Jennings, son of Mr. and Mrs. Elbert Jenning, Mealy, was slightly wounded in France Tuesday, August 8, 1944.  His parents were notified on August 26, 1944.  He entered the service in May, 1942, going to England in April, 1944.  There are four Jennings boys in service, the other three being Ira’s twin brother Lawrence, a seaman first class, who is a patient at the navy hospital in Hawaii suffering from a heart ailment; Sgt. James P. Jennings in England; and Glenn Jennings S 1 c who is also in Hawaii.  Another brother Elbert, Jr., will leave on, Friday, September 1, 1944 for the navy. Pvt. Jennings is married, his wife and baby son living at White House with her aunt, Mrs. Cora Tackett.  He also has five sisters, Mrs. Roy Preston and Mrs. Frank Childers of Meally, Mrs. Roosevelt Maynard, Matewan, West Va. and Vina and Ruth at home. A Van Lear soldier, D. B. Williams has been wounded in France so his parents were notified Saturday, August 26, 1944.  Previous to that they had received a letter from him in which he stated that he had been temporarily blinded by a flash but was rapidly recovering.  D. B. entered the service prior to registration, his brother Earl joining up in April 1941. A third boy, Phonzo McCloud, Jr., S 2 c was slightly wounded August 18, 1944, in the Italian area, so his parents Mr. and Mrs. Phonzo McCloud, West Van Lear were notified Tuesday.  He has two brothers in service, George Perry McCloud in a Florida Missing part of article Paintsville Herald Thursday 08-31-1944
SPARKS, Roy
1944
FLAT GAP BOY KILLED AUG. 8
Pvt. Roy Sparks 43rd Casualty In County. Mr. And Mrs. Powell Sparks, of Flat Gap, were notified August 24 that their son, Pvt. Roy Sparks was killed in action in France on August 8.  This is the forty third known casualty, which includes dead, missing and prisoners-of-war, in this county. Pvt. Sparks, born Nov. 17, 1917, entered the service on October 13, 1943, taking his training at Camp Blanding, Fla.  He was later transferred to Ft. Meade, Maryland, from where he was sent across early this year. Surviving are his wife, the former Beulah Williams and one child. Paintsville herald Thursday 08/31/1944
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SPARKS, Roy
 1944
 Rites Friday For Flat Gap Soldier Funeral services will be conducted for Pvt. Roy Sparks, 26, son of Powell and Ollie Murray Sparks, at the home of his parents at Flat Gap at 10:00 A. M., Friday, August 6.  Pvt. Sparks was killed in action August 8, 1944. Besides his parents he is survived by the following brothers and sisters:  Selvie Sparks, Marengo, Ohio, Mrs. Gusta Sparks, Flat Gap, Hollie Sparks, Flat Gap, Ivel Sparks, Flat Gap, Mrs. Inis Ross, Condit, Ohio, Mrs. Geneva Chapman, Sunbury, O., Mrs. Flora Slone, Flat Gap, and Richard Sparks, Flat Gap. Burial will be in the Sparks Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 5 August 1948
 
STURGILL, Homer
1944
Homer Sturgill Killed In France
Relatives have been notified that Pfc. Homer Sturgill, 36, previously reported missing, was killed in action in France on August 15.  Sturgill who enlisted in the service in March 31, 1941, is a son of Mr. And Mrs. B. F. Sturgill, Rt 2, Ashland.  He was a jeep driver and was in England two years before going into France. Surviving are his parents, four sisters, Mrs. Clarence Robertson, Mrs. Alfred Johnson and Mrs. Fred Conley, Ashland, and Mrs. W. G. Pinkerton, Louis.  Two brothers, Pfc. Willie Sturgill, serving in France and Clabe Sturgill at home also survive. Pfc. Home Sturgill was a nephew of Mr. And Mrs. B. N. Bailey, formerly of this county and who now reside in Baltimore.  He had visited here many times and has a host of friends who will be grieved to learn of his death. Paintsville Herald Thursday 09/28/1944
WELLS, John P.
1921-1944
John P. Wells Dies In France
Pfc. Conley’s Personal Belongings Received By Father Pvt. John P. Wells has been killed in action in France according to a telegram from the War Department received by his father, Walker Wells, Odds. Private Wells died on August 29, having been wounded on the 27th.  Wells was home on furlough approximately five months ago, leaving immediately thereafter for overseas duty.  He is married, his wife being a native of Michigan. He has a brother Wilbur also in service, and a twin brother Roland who resides at Van Lear.  A host of relatives survive. The personal belongings of Pfc. Everett Conley, who was killed in an automobile accident n Iceland on April 1, 1944, were returned to his father, Wm. (Big Bill) Conley at West Van Lear. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-28-1944  Services Friday For  Pvt. John P. Wells Funeral services for Pvt. John P. Wells, son of Mr. and Mrs. Walker Wells of Odds, Kentucky, who was a casualty of World War II, will be held at the Philadelphia Church on Friday, April 8, 1949, at 10:00 A.M., by the Rev. S. C. Honeycutt. Pvt. Wells was born January 15, 1921, and was killed in action on August 29, 1944, at the age of 23. Reinterment will be in the Wells Cemetery in Paintsville, under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. The American Legion will have charge of services at the grave. Paintsville Herald Thursday  April 7, 1949
WILLIAMS, Sarah M. (Pelphrey)
1944
Sarah M. Williams Buried Today
Last rites will be held this afternoon (Thursday) at the Freewill Baptist Church for Sarah M. Williams, 69, widow of H. W. Williams, who passed away early Wednesday morning at the Paintsville Hospital. She had suffered a stroke last February and had never fully recovered. Mrs. Williams was born at East Point to the late Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Pelphrey. At the age of 52 she was united in marriage to Scott Martin who died a few years later. She was then married to H.W. Williams who died last February. They made their home in Louisa and at the time of his death she had had a stroke and was a patient in a Louisa hospital. Since her illness last winter she has made her home in West Van Lear with a brother, Milt Pelphrey. She leaves a large number of friends and relatives who will be saddened by her death.  The Preston Funeral Home was in charge. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Thursday  August 3, 1944

SEPTEMBER - 1944

BLAIR, Marion Frank
1944
Marion Frank Blair, 75, died at his home on Barnetts Creek Friday evening following a week's illness from a paralytic stroke.  A farmer of that community, Mr. Blair was a lifelong resident of the county, his parents being the late Wall Blair and Margaret Holbrook Blair. In his youth he was married to Ann Picklesimer and ten children were born to this couple, three of whom are deceased. Surviving are his wife and the following children:  Margaret Blair, Bertha Picklesimer, Delphia Harmon, Martin, Buell and Robert all living on Barnetts Creek and one son, Lindsey, Oil Springs.  He is also survived by two brothers, John of Oil Springs and Millard of Denver, one sister Mrs. Emma Caudill of Denver. The funeral was held at the home Sunday at 1 o'clock a. m. with Revs. Furman Blair, Millard O'Bryan and Frank Caudill having charge of the services. Burial by the Jones Funeral Home was made in the family cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-7-1944
CASTLE, Carl E.
1944
Body of Nippa Youth Among Returned War Dead
The body of Cpl. Carl E. Castle, son of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Castle, Nippa, has arrived in New York aboard the transport, Joseph V. Connolly, it was announced by the War Department last week. Cpl. Castle was killed in action in Germany on September 20, 1944. He entered the service in June 1943, while working in Lima, Ohio.  He had attended Oil Springs High School. He is survived by his parents and a brother, Earl Thomas Castle. Cpl. Castle was 20 years of age at the time of his death. Paintsville Herald Thursday October 30, 1947 Funeral Services Held Wednesday For Pvt. Carl Castle Funeral services were held Wednesday, November 19, for Pvt. Carl Castle of Nippa, whose body was returned from a Belgium Cemetery arriving here Monday.  He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Castle of Nippa, and he was killed in action in Belgium at the age of 21 years, 6 months and one day.  His death occurred on September 26, 1944. Besides his parents, he is survived by one brother, Earl, Jr. Funeral services were conducted at the Freewill Baptist Church on Tom's Creek by Rev. Millard Van Hoose and Rev. Claude Preston. Pallbearers were Edgel Salyer, Judge Graham, Brooks Salyer, Ernest Van Hoose, Elmer Castle, and Otis Castle. Burial was made in the Van Hoose Cemetery at Nippa under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 20, 1947
CASTLE, Pauline
1944
THEALKA GIRL DIES
Pauline Castle of Thealka, the beautiful young daughter of Mr. and  Mrs. Craig Castle, succumbed to asthma on September 21. Funeral services were held at Thealka Sunday, with Elders C. J. Sparks  and Garland Preston officiating.  Burial was on Sycamore.  She leaves  besides her father and mother a number of brothers and sisters. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 28, 1944
   
CRISLIP, Ed
1944
Man Struck By Truck Succumbs Tuesday Ed Crislip, 87 year old citizen of Staffordsville, died at nine o’clock Tuesday night, his death according to coroner’s jury report the result of injuries received when struck by a truck driven by Turrell Blair on August 30. He died at a local hospital where he was taken immediately after the accident. Funeral services were held at the home this morning, burial being made by the Preston Funeral Home of Kerz Ky. Surviving are his wife and a number of children. September 7,1944 
    
EWERS, O. C.
1944
O. C. EWERS DIES OF INJURIES
O. C. Ewers, 50, supervisor of tracks for the Paintsville district, Ashland Division, Chesapeake and Ohio Railway Co., died at 5:30 p.m. in a Huntington hospital from injuries received in a wreck on the Big Sandy Division four miles south of Louisa on August 30, 1944. Mr. Ewers was fatally injured while riding on the rear end of a passenger train which collided with a manifest freight train, eastbound.  The passenger train was en route from Ashland to Pikeville. Also seriously injured was Mose Daniels, Ashland, engineer of the passenger train, who was thrown from the train in the crash and suffered a skull fracture.  He is a patient at the Louisa General Hospital where attendants report his condition as improved. Mr. Ewers was a native of Norwood, Va., and had been in the Chesapeake and Ohio Ry service since the age of 17. Funeral services were held at 8 p.m. Saturday in the Curtright Funeral Home, Louisa.  The funeral party left Louisa Sunday morning for his home in Norwood where interment was made. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Emma Stapleton Ewers of Paintsville, four daughters, Mrs. J. A. Taylor, Gladston, Va.; Misses Doris and Grace Ewers at home, and Alice Ewers, Charlottesville, Va.; four sons, Ossie Ewers, Hansford, Calif.; Sergeant William Ewers stationed with the U.S. Army in Louisiana; Private Bernard Ewers, Camp Barkeley, Texas, and Wallace Ewers at home, one brother, A. T. Ewers, Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-7-1944
GREENE, John
1944
9-8-1944
Chandlerville Man Killed in Ohio
John Greene, native of the Chandlerville section, was killed in an automobile accident at Mechanicsburg, Ohio., on September 8, 1944. It is understood that he was riding with fellow workmen en route to work when the accident occurred. Mr. Greene had made his home in Ohio the past few years. The body was laid to rest at Mechanicsburg. The dead man has many relatives in this country who will regret to learn of his sudden death. Paintsville Herald Thursday 9-21-1944
HITCHCOCK, John
1944
HITCHCOCK IS BURIED SEPT. 21
Long Illness Fatal To Jennies Creek Citizen
Last rites were held Thursday, Sept. 21, 1944, for John Hitchcock who died Tuesday, Sept. 19, 1944, after an illness of several months.  A native of the Rock House Fork of Jennies Creek. Mr. Hitchcock was born to Milt Hitchcock, deceased and Celia Rice Hitchcock on August 23, 1988 (1888).  His wife, the former Beulah Adams, passed away in October 1935. Mr. Hitchcock, a former miner, was critically ill with pneumonia and pleurisy last winter and never fully recovered.  Blood clots developing during his earlier illness were the immediate cause of his death. A large family in addition to a host of friends survive.  The Jones Funeral home was in charge of the arrangements.   ERROR IN BIRTHDATE YEAR Paintsville Herald Thursday 09-28-1944
KIMBLER, James
1944
COUNTY MAN DIES IN OHIO
The body of James Kimbler who passed away at McConnellsville, Ohio. Tuesday was returned to Paintsville the following day by an ambulance of the Jones Funeral Home. Mr. Kimbler had gone two months earlier for treatment in a tuberculosis sanitarium in the Ohio town. Funeral arrangements were indefinite as the Herald went to press. Mr. Kimbler’s wife, a daughter of John McDowell, Meally is a sister to Mrs. Charles Gool whose husband was killed in the mines at Van Lear last month. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY SEP 7, 1944
VANHOOSE, Otto
1944
The body of T-4 Sgt. Otto VanHoose, who died Saturday at Camp Shelby, Miss., arrived in Paintsville Wednesday morning and was taken by the Jones Funeral Home ambulance to the home of Walter B. Ward, his wife's father, at Tutor Key. Funeral services will be conducted this afternoon (Thursday) with Rev. F. S. VanHoose and Rev. Robert Castle in charge. The body was accompanied from Camp Shelby by Sgt. Watson Gibson, a personal friend of the dead man. Young VanHoose was operated on for a reptured appendix at Camp Shelby on August 4. His wife was notified the his condition was critical and she made the trip from Tutor Key to Camp Shelby a week before his death. A son of Mr. and Mrs. Scott VanHoose, River, Sgt. VanHoose was 24 at the time of his death. He was a graduate of Oil Springs High School and attended Caney Creek College two years. He later taught at Hammond school house. He enlisted in the Signal Corps, entering the service on July 31, 1942. In May, 1944, while home on a furlough, he was married to Miss. Doris Bernice Ward. Surviving in addition to his wife and parents are a number of half brothers and sisters. Since Sgt. VanHoose died while in the service of his country, he will make the forty-eighth casualty from this county. Two more county youths have been reported wounded in action. Mrs. Wallace J. Adams, city has been notified by Lt. Gen A. Vandergrigt, UMC Commandant of Marine Corps, that her husband Pvt. Wallace J. Adams was wounded in action July 31. Previous to receiving the wire, Mrs. Adams had had a letter from her husband in which he stated he had been wounded in the left thigh during the Tinian battle and that he is now in a hospital in Hawaii. Pvt. Adams is the son of Laura Ward Adams and is a grandson of Judge and Mrs. W. J. Ward. He entered the service in November, 1943, going overseas in the spring. Pvt. and Mrs. Adams have a year old son. Gilbert Ratliff, son of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Ratliff, Whitehouse has been reported wounded in England. He entered service before registration. Paintsville Herald Thursday 09-14-1944
WILEY, William Elzie
1853-1944
WM. E. WILEY DIES SEPT. 19
Aged White House Man To Be Buried Friday William Elzie Wiley, White House, passed away at his home on Sept. 19.  Mr. Wiley was born in Magoffin County, on April 8, 1853 and was 81 years of age at the time of his death. On December 5, 1872, he was married to Martha Lemaster, and to this union were born three sons, Son of Williamson, West Va., Wall of Lookout, Ky., and the late Tobe Wiley, city. Mr. Wiley married Elizabeth Wheatley, of Wise, Va., on January 31, 1882, and eleven children, eight boys and three girls were born to this couple.  The children are Mrs. Nannie Corns, Crum, W. Va., Mrs. W. B. Hale, Puritan Mines W. Va., Mrs. H. A. Noble, Columbus, O., J. B. of Hardy, Ky., Smith of Red Jacket, W. Va., Ray also of Hardy, Frank, White House, and Charlie, Daniel and Brownlow who preceded him in death some years ago. In addition to the children, Mr. Wiley is survived by his wife, one brother, B. H. Wiley, Betsy Layne, and a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren, together with many friends thruout Eastern Kentucky. He was a member of the Sitka Church of Freewill Baptist and of the F. & A. M. Masonic lodge, 672 of Inez. Funeral services will be held Friday at 10 a.m. at the home at White House, Elders Millard VanHoose, Adrian Davis and Merida Wiley officiating. Burial will be made by the Preston Funeral Home. Note: Mr. Wiley was buried in the Whittaker Cemetery at River. Paintsville Herald Thursday September 21, 1944

OCTOBER - 1944

CHANDLER, Jennie (Williams)
1944
Jennie Chandler Succumbs Oct. 11
Mrs. Jennie Chandler, 66, wife of Franklin Chandler, succumbed October 11 at her home at Lowmansville after a lingering illness.  Rites were conducted at the Church of God at Lowmansville Saturday afternoon, Rev Moses Kitchen and Rev. Griffith in charge. Survivors besides her husband are two children, Mrs. Mildred Chaffin, Catlettsburg, and Rev. Ward Beecher Chandler, Austin, Texas, and a brother, Byron Williams of Catlettsburg.  A nephew of deceased is Charlie Williams Church Street, City. Mrs. Chandler was a daughter of the late Mr. And Mrs. T. S. Williams.   Funeral services were under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 19 Oct 1944
COLLINS, Garfield
1944
JOHN OSBORNE, GARFIELD  COLLINS AND EVERETT SLONE SUCCUMB
The Preston Funeral Home reports the deaths of John Osborne, 88 year old resident of Red Bush, Garfield Collins, 50, of Riceville, and Everett Slone, 58, Kerz. Mr. Osborne passed away on October 5 at the Paintsville Clinic. Funeral services were held with the New Regular Baptist Church at Red Bush with Elders Thomas Bailey, R. W. Callin and Oak Williams officiating. Burial was in the family cemetery. He is survived by the following children: Mrs. Cora Skaggs, Mrs. Laura Sagraves, Mrs. Bertha Franklin, Mrs. Amba Keaton, Mrs. Alva Fraley, Mrs. Elva Fyrre and J.H. Osborne. Mr. Collins died at his home on October 9. He was buried in the family cemetery at Leander following services held at the Long Fork church, of which he was a member. Elders Hargis Conley and Scott Castle conducted the services. Mr. Slone passed away at his home on the ninth after several weeks’ illness. Funeral services were held in the home Wednesday morning with Guy W. Preston and Elder Daniel officiating. Burial was made on Frank’s Creek immediately after the services. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY OCT 12, 1944
CONLEY, Mrs. H. B. (Fyffe)
1944
Mrs. Conley Dies Following Operation
Mrs. H. B. Conley of Red Bush passed away Monday afternoon, October 23 at the Paintsville Hospital after an operation. She was a devoted wife and mother.  She leaves her husband and three children, besides numerous other relatives and friends. She was the daughter of James and Susan (deceased) Fyffe of Keaton. She was a Christian woman, being a member of the United Baptist Church for the past 20 years. Funeral services were conducted Wednesday afternoon, October 25 by Rev. Tommy Bailey and burial was at Barn Rock. Paintsville Herald Thursday 2 Nov 1944
CONLEY, Russell
1944
Russell Conley, 40 years old, died at his home on Wednesday, October 11 following an illness of several months.  Russell was a carpenter by trade and had been in the employ of North East Coal Co. for several years and up to the time his illness forced him to retire had been employed by Irvin Rice, local contractor.  He was the son of Hayden and Catherine Blair Conley and the husband Easter Thompson Conley. He is survived by his wife and several children, his parents and one brother and four sisters. Funeral services were held at the Thealka Church Sunday morning at 10 O’clock by Rev. Milard VanHoose and Don Fraley.  Song service by the Thealka Quartette of which Russell at one time was a member. Burial services were made at the family cemetery on Lick Fork.  A large crowd was present at the services at Thealka and at the burial which was under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald 10-19-1944
DANIEL, Guy L.
1944
FORMER OFFUT MAN DIES AT WEEKSBURY
The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Company annouces the death of Guy L. Daniel which occurred Friday at the home of his father, Leon Daniel, at Weeksbury. Mr. Daniel, who was 44 years of age, had been a miner until a few years ago when he had been forced to retire because of illness from tuberculosis. He was a native of the Offutt section of the county where burial was held Monday afternoon, Elders John W. Butcher and L. T. Preston officiating. Deceased was a member of the United Baptost Church. Surviving in addition to the father are the following brothers and sisters, Ray Daniel, of Harmon,Va., Mrs. Geo Castle and Mrs. Jay Daniel, Weeksbury and Mrs. Jimmy Carr, of Williamsport. Paintsville Herald Thursday  11-2-1944
DANIELS, James
1944
James Daniels 9-31-1944
Accident Occurred At Odds Oct. 31
James Daniels of Odds, age seventy-three was instantly killed in a country mine near his home on the thirty-first of October 1944.  He and his small son had gone to the mine to procure coal for the home when the accident occurred.  They entered the mine and while the father was shoveling coal the slate fell, pinning him to the bottom.  Before aid could be gotten to him death occurred. Jim was in his third marriage, his last wife, who survives, being Lovie Dutton. He was the father of fourteen children, all of whom are living.  He was a Baptist, having his membership with the old Friendship church of United Baptist.  Funeral and burial were held on Greasy the past Sunday, with the Elders John Butcher and Winfrey meek.  The Preston Funeral Home was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-9-1944
DOBBINS, A. I.
1944
A.I. Dobbins A.I. Dobbins, age about 65, of Patrick, passed away on October 30.  Funeral services will be held at he home Sunday afternoon and burial will be made near the home. Paintsville Herald  Thursday 2 Nov. 1944
JAYNE, Cora Ellen
1944
MRS. JOHNNIE JAYNE
A resident of Staffordsville
Mrs. Johnnie Jayne, passed away at the Golden Rule Hospital on October 28, 1944.  She was 69 years of age and a victim of diabetes.  Prior to her death she had both feet amputated in an effort to check the malady. Her husband Johnnie, preceded her in death in September, 1943.  She was a devout United Baptist having her membership with the Fish Trap Church.  She was a beloved mother and leaves a large family and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her passing. Funeral services were held at the home Tuesday.  Burial at the mouth of Mud Lick. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-02-1944
KING, Herschell B.
1944-1944
Herschell B. King The three months old son of Mrs. and Mrs. Crate King, Kerz, succumbed to pneumonia on October 23.  The infant, named Herschell B., was buried at Kerz on Tuesday, October 24.  He is survived by his parents and nine brothers and sisters. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY  NOVEMBER 2 1944
LEMASTER, Flem
1944
A veteran of World War I
Flem Lemaster, was found dead in bed at his home at Manila on Tuesday morning, October 31, 1944.  Coroner Guy W. Preston reported death was due to a heart attack. Mr. Lemaster was married to Lennie Spradlin on January 10, 1920. They have the following children: Opal, Irene, Leon, Harold, Windell and Garrett. Another son, Junior, was killed in France the past April.  Besides his wife and children his is survived by his aged father, W. J. Lemaster, and a number of brothers and sisters. Funeral services will beheld today (Thursday) at ten o'clock a. m. at the Fish Trap Church of which he was a member. Burial will be made near the home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-2-1944
MCCARTY, Ollie J.
1944
MANILA BOY KILLED OCT. 25
Previously Is Reported As Missing
Mrs. Gladys Ann McCarty, of Rt. 1, Catlettsburg, has been advised that her husband Ollie J. McCarty S 2-c who had previously been reported as “missing in action”, was killed in action on October 2, 1944, during the second battle of the Phillippines off Semar Island.  McCarty is the son of Rev. and Mrs. Oscar McCarty, Manila, and has one brother in service, Cpl. Joe McCarty in France.  He joined the service in April 1944, training at Great Lakes and going to the Pacific in June after visiting his Parents. The following letter from L. S. Kintberger, Commander, U. S. Navy, dated January 22, 1945, advised Mrs. McCarty of her husband’s death. “It is with great sorrow that I as commanding officer of the U. S. S. Hoel, write to you concerning your husband, Ollie James McCarty S s-2 following the sinking of the Hoel on October 25, 1944, after the now famous second battle of the Philippines off Samar Island, was reported missing in action.  I regret to say that a careful review of the known facts has led to the sad conclusion that he was killed in action.  Your husband was last seen at his battle station performing his duties, as always, in an excellent manner.  His station was hit by shells from Japanese battleships, cruisers and destroyers, and it may be concluded that he was killed instantly by exploding shells” “Ollie was a fine shipmate and had always been well-liked by his fellow sailors.  His great heroism and courage was in keeping with the highest standards of our Naval traditions.  WE have always known that victory in our struggle to preserve our ideals would require great sacrifice.  That sacrifice has now become a reality and those who carry on now owe to Ollie and to you the obligation to insure that his and your sacrifice were not in vain.” “I know with what grief this news come to you.  I wish greatly that I might hold out some hope for you that your husband is still alive, but circumstances make that impossible.  I hope that you will find some comfort in your husband’s heroism and in the thought that he will live on in the hearts of all those who knew him.  The Navy and the nation can ill afford to lose valuable services of such a person as Ollie”. “With my heartfelt sympathy and best wishes, I remain, Very sincerely L. S. KINTBERGER Commander, U. S. Navy” Paintsville Herald Thursday 02/01/1945
OSBORNE, John
1944
JOHN OSBORNE, GARFIELD  COLLINS AND EVERETT SLONE SUCCUMB
The Preston Funeral Home reports the deaths of John Osborne, 88 year old resident of Red Bush, Garfield Collins, 50, of Riceville, and Everett Slone, 58, Kerz. Mr. Osborne passed away on October 5 at the Paintsville Clinic. Funeral services were held with the New Regular Baptist Church at Red Bush with Elders Thomas Bailey, R. W. Callin and Oak Williams officiating. Burial was in the family cemetery. He is survived by the following children: Mrs. Cora Skaggs, Mrs. Laura Sagraves, Mrs. Bertha Franklin, Mrs. Amba Keaton, Mrs. Alva Fraley, Mrs. Elva Fyrre and J.H. Osborne. Mr. Collins died at his home on October 9. He was buried in the family cemetery at Leander following services held at the Long Fork church, of which he was a member. Elders Hargis Conley and Scott Castle conducted the services. Mr. Slone passed away at his home on the ninth after several weeks’ illness. Funeral services were held in the home Wednesday morning with Guy W. Preston and Elder Daniel officiating. Burial was made on Frank’s Creek immediately after the services. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY OCT 12, 1944
PRESTON, Sarah L. (Brown)
1944
Mrs. Sarah L. Preston passed away at a local hospital Friday morning after a few weeks critical illness. Mrs. Preston, known to her many Big Sandy friends as Aunt Sarah, was 85 years of age at the time of her death. Funeral services were held Sunday at the Mayo Memorial Church of which church she had been a member since girlhood. Deceased was a daughter of the late Andrew Jackson and Susanne Brown.  On June 25, 1879, she was married to Daniel Lynn Preston.  Two daughters, Beulah Preston Webb and Mabel Preston Kirk was born to this union. She was preceded in death by her husband who died March 14, 1926. Surviving in addition to her two daughters are six grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-26-1944
RATLIFF, Sarah
1944
A beloved mother of Patrick, Ky., Sarah Ratliff was a victim of a heart attack on, Thursday, October 26, 1944. Burial was on Nates Creek Saturday, October 28, 1944.  Mrs. Ratliff aged 78, was a life long member of the United Baptist Church. She is survived by her husband, John Ratliff, and a number of children. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-02-1944
RICE, H. H.
1854-1944
FORMER JOHNSON COUNTIAN DIES
Rev. H.H. Rice, 90, husband of Nancy Jane Rice, deceased, died October 26 at his residence, route 1, Summitt, near Ashland. Rev. Rice had been in ill health for the past two years and became seriously ill a week before his death. The deceased was born June 14, 1854, in Johnson County, a son of Andrew Jackson and Phoebe Fairchild Rice, both natives of Johnson County. Rev. Rice was a minister of the Baptist Church and a retired farmer. He was ordained a minister 52 years ago. He had been a resident of Boyd County for the past 40 years, and was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church for the past 65 years. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY NOV 16, 1944
SAMMONS, Nancy (Music)
1855-1944
Nancy M. Sammons Dies October 23rd
Death came to Mrs. Nancy Music Sammons Monday evening October 23 at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Joe Stambaugh at River, Ky.  Funeral services were conducted at Meally by Rev. Hershel Short, after which the body was laid to rest in the family cemetery at Thelma.  The Jones Funeral Home in charge.  Deceased, a native of this county was born on March 11, 1855. Mrs. Sammons was married to Thomas Sammons and to this union were born the following children; Martin Sammons, Thelma, John and Tom at Meally, Mrs. Joe Stambaugh, River, Mrs. Lee Davis, Wheelwright, Mrs. Ben DeLong, Van Lear, Mrs. Mac Franklin, Thelma and Joe Sammons and Ellen Franklin, deceased. This fine old lady was know and loved by her many friends and was a shining example of Christian influence to her children and relatives. Paintsville Herald 11-2-1944
STONE, Everett
1944
JOHN OSBORNE, GARFIELD  COLLINS AND EVERETT SLONE SUCCUMB
The Preston Funeral Home reports the deaths of John Osborne, 88 year old resident of Red Bush, Garfield Collins, 50, of Riceville, and Everett Slone, 58, Kerz. Mr. Osborne passed away on October 5 at the Paintsville Clinic. Funeral services were held with the New Regular Baptist Church at Red Bush with Elders Thomas Bailey, R. W. Callin and Oak Williams officiating. Burial was in the family cemetery. He is survived by the following children: Mrs. Cora Skaggs, Mrs. Laura Sagraves, Mrs. Bertha Franklin, Mrs. Amba Keaton, Mrs. Alva Fraley, Mrs. Elva Fyrre and J.H. Osborne. Mr. Collins died at his home on October 9. He was buried in the family cemetery at Leander following services held at the Long Fork church, of which he was a member. Elders Hargis Conley and Scott Castle conducted the services. Mr. Slone passed away at his home on the ninth after several weeks’ illness. Funeral services were held in the home Wednesday morning with Guy W. Preston and Elder Daniel officiating. Burial was made on Frank’s Creek immediately after the services. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY OCT 12, 1944
TITLOW, Lenie Beatrice (Wall)
1944
MOTHER OF ELEVEN DIES MONDAY
The Preston Funeral Home reports the death of Mrs. Lenie Beatrice Titlow, 56, who passed away at a local hospital Monday following a three month illness.  Services were held, Wednesday at West Van Lear, Rev. Savage officiating. Mrs. Titlow was the wife of Jake Titlow who survives in addition to their eleven children, Mrs. Gastava Martin, Estill, Bill, John, Lillian, Mrs. Evelyn Keeny, Charles, Mary Harry, Vida and Sue. Deceased was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Wall of Denton, KY.  She had resided in this county the past twenty years and was a member of the Methodist Church.  The Titlows had made their home at Van Lear until two years ago, when they moved to Flat Gap. Paintsville Herald Thursday 10-19-1944
WEBB, Charles E.
1944
CHAS. E. WEBB KILLED IN ITALY
Rev. Donald E. Webb of Wrigley, Kentucky, received a telegram from the War Department that his son, Pfc. Charles E. Webb was killed in action in Italy on October 8, 1944. Pfc. Webb entered the army in May, 1943, and went overseas in February of this year. He was twenty years of age, single. He was injured while in training and offered a release from the army but preferred to remain in service. He is survived by his father and mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Stivers, of Lexington, one whole sister, Helena Webb, of East Chicago, Ind., one whole brother, Homer Webb of Chester, Pa., four half sisters and two half brothers, Gay Webb, Anita Webb of Wrigley, Ky., Estelle, Helen Rae, Boyd and Melvin Douglas Stivers of Lexington, Ky., and step-mother, Mrs. Beulah Mae Webb. Pfc. Webb is related to a great number of people in Johnson County through his paternal grandmother, Martha Wheeler Webb. The Paintsville Herald Thursday November 2, 1944

NOVEMBER - 1944

BAYES, J. B. "Pete"
1856-1944
Elderly Barnetts Creek Man Dies
J.B. (Pete) Bayes, died Tuesday, November 7 at his home here.   He had been ill since the first of July. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Thursa Hammonds Bayes and three children; Leander Bayes of West Liberty, Mantford Bayes and Mrs. Della Powers of Mash Fork, several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Funeral services were held Wednesday at the home and burial followed immediately at the family cemetery near the home. A funeral home from Salyersville was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday, November 16, 1944 (NOTE: James Buchanan "Pete" Bayes, son of James Jackson Bayes and Rachel E. Picklesimer, was born April 12, 1856. Pete's first wife was Amanda Rice, who bore his four children, Leander, Mantford, Della and Frank.)
BAYES, Talitha Katherine (Fairchild)
1944
he undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Co. reports the deaths of two well known mother of the county, Mrs. Talitha Katherine Bayes, Oil Springs, and Mrs. Mary Penix of Boons Camp, both of whom have been life-long residents of their communities and leave a host of relatives and friends to mourn their passing. Mrs. Bayes succumbed November 10 at her home on Hargus Creek in the Oil Springs section. She was 78 years of age and had been critically ill five weeks. Her husband J. J. Bayes, a prominent farmer of that neighborhood preceded her in death a few months ago. Surviving are the following children: Moody, John Charles and Mark Bayes, Mrs. Callie Long and Mrs. James Fairchild, all of Oil Springs, Mrs. Oscar Salyer, Flat Gap, Dard Bayes and Mrs. Rolla Conley of Mt. Sterling, Ohio, and Prentiss Bayes of Dayton, O. Also surviving is a brother Dick Fairchild of Indiana. Mrs. Bayes was a member of the United Baptist Church, and funeral services, held November 12, were in charge of Elders Lonza Reed and Scott Castle.
Death called Mrs. Mary Penix, 79, on Friday, November 17, at her home at Boons Camp. She had been confined to her home the past year because of infirmities but until that time had taken an active part in her community life being always ready to assist her neighbors in time of trouble. She was the daughter of the late John Mollette, Boons Camp, and was married to Richard Penix, who died several years ago. Their children are Mrs. Ernest Walters, and W. A. Penix, Boons Camp, J. B. Penix, Jimmie Penix and Mrs. Mary Margaret Walters, Williamsport, Mrs. Clara Ward, Van Lear, and Mrs. Ed Sammons, Dayton, O. Sisters surviving Mrs. Penix are, Mrs. Susan McGinnis, Davella, Mrs. Lizzie Sturgill and Mrs. Vina Ward of Boons Camp. Mrs. Penix was also a member of the United Baptist Church of which church she had been a member 61 years. The funeral was held Saturday at the church at Boons Camp with Elders John Butcher, Winfrey Meek, and Glenn Arrowood officiating. Several hundred persons were present at the funeral of Mrs. Bayes and Mrs. Penix to pay their last respects. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY NOV. 23, 1944
BOOTH, Henry
1944
SPANISH WAR VETERAN BURIED IN MARTIN CO.
The body of Henry Booth, 69, who died November 10, 1944, at Tomahawk, was laid to rest at that place on November 12. A veteran of the Spanish-American War, Mr. Booth had served from twelve to fifteen years with the army until ill health caused his retirement. He suffered from asthma and sought relief at Hot Springs, Arkansas where he made his home several years, returning to Martin Co., this past year. He is survived by his wife and a son. The undertaking department of the Patintsville Furniture Co., had charge of   the funeral. Paintsville Herald Thursday11-23-1944
BROWN, Josie (Robinson)
1944
Lowmansville Woman Dies At Home Nov. 21
Mrs. Josie Robinson Brown, 68 wife of Joe Brown, died Thursday, Nov.21,1944 at her home at Lowmansville, following an illness of several weeks. Funeral services were held Saturday at the Georges Creek Baptist Church. The Rev. F. F. Rigsby and Rev. Willie Daniel officiating. Interment was in the family cemetery at Lowmansville. She was married to Mr. Brown Nov. 22, 1900, and to this union were born three children, Mrs Effie Lowe of Ashland, Howard Brown of Lowmansville, and Willard Brown of Ashland, all of whom survive.  Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. W. A. Litz of Auxier and Mrs Joe Howard of Paintsville, a brother, John Robinson of Wayland, and 10 grandchildren. Mrs Brown was a kind and loving wife and mother and will be sadly missed.  She was a faithful member of the Georges Creek Church and her passing has brought grief to a host of relatives and friends in the county. Paintsville Herald  Thursday  Nov.28,1944 
BURKE, Lurinda
1944
Aged Woman Dies
Lurinda Burke, 92 years old, died at the home of her granddaughter, Mrs. Kermit Spradlin of West Van Lear on Nov. 30. She is survived by several children and grandchildren. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church at Riceville Saturday morning by Rev. Scott Castle followed by burial in the Burke family Cemetery. The Jones Funeral Home in charge. Paintsvill Herald Thursday 12-07-1944
CASTLE, Drewery P.
1944
Deputy Sheriff Castle Dies Suddenly
D. P. Castle, 59, died on November 18 at the home of a son, Angus, at Nippa.  Mr. Castle, for many years deputy sheriff of Johnson County, had been in failing health for several months, his sickness becoming serious only a few days before he died.  Burial was made on the following Tuesday, November 21, at the family cemetery near the home, Rev. Scott Daniel and Rev. Millard VanHoose officiating. Mr. Castle is survived by three sons, Angus, and Art Castle of Nippa, and Samuel P. Castle, with the U. S. Forces in England.  Also surviving are his father B. L. Castle, Nippa, and three brothers Sterling Castle and Harrison Castle, of Nippa and Oscar Castle of Wittensville. Mr. Castle always prominent in Republican politics of the county, had planned on entering the coming primary for sheriff. Note: This cemetery is also known as the "Clark Castle Cemetery". Paintsville Herald Thursday December 7, 1944
COLVIN, John Henry
1944
Paintsville Herald
Thursday,
November 23, 1944
J. H. COLVIN IS BURIED NOVEMBER 25
FATHER OF FOUR SERVICE MEN DIES MONDAY
Death claimed John Henry Colvin, 73 year- old citizen of Mine Fork, Monday. Mr. Colvin has not been well for many months. Funeral services were conducted by the Preston Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 29, Elder Theodore Williams officiating, and burial was made in the home cemetery. Mr. Colvin was married to the former Alice Fairchild, who survives in addition to the following children, four of whom are in service: Mrs. Myrtle Blanton, Mrs. Mollie Hitchcock, Earl, Tom, Mrs. Sarah Bailey, Mrs. Sis Bailey, Mrs. May Blanton, Jeff, Mrs. Maxie Cantrell and Manford. A host of friends and relatives will mourn his death. Deceased was an outstanding farmer of his community.
CONLEY, Cyrus N.
1944
CYRUS N. CONLEY
DIES SUNDAY MORNING
Cyrus N. Conley, 65, South Side Addition, died Sunday morning at about 1 a.m. following an illness of several months. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth McCloud Conley and three sons, Maxie V. Collista, Vern and Elvin, city. He is also survived by two brothers, Rev. John E. Conley, Auxier, and D. B. Conley, city; one sister, Mrs. Colfax Butler, city. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 1 o'clock at the Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Millard Van Hoose in charge. Burial was made in the Conley cemetery on Jennies Creek beside his parents who were among the earlier settlers of Johnson County. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the Jones Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY NOV 9 1944
DANIEL, B. D.
1944
NATIVE OF COUNTY LIVED IN OHIO 35 YEARS
B. D. Daniel, father of Fonnie Daniel, Paintsville, died at his home near Waverly Ohio, Monday morning following a long illness. Mr. Daniel, son of the late Magistrate Flem Daniel and Mary Jane Brown Daniel of River, Ky., had been living in Ohio for about 35 years. He was a prominent farmer and real estate dealer and himself had served his Ohio community as Magistrate. Besides his son, Fonnie Daniel, the deceased is survived by his widow Mrs. Julia VanHoose Daniel, two other sons, James Daniel, Chillicothe, Ohio, and French Daniel Los Angeles, Calif. Two sisters Mrs. Fred Daniel, Louisa and Mrs. A. J. Arrowood, Boons Camp, three brothers, David K. Daniel, Ashland, James Daniel, Chandlerville and Luther Daniel of River. Mr. Daniel was an uncle of Irvin and Henry Arrowood of Paintsville. Burial was to have been Wednesday in Ohio. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY 11-23-1944
DAVIS, Marcus L.
1944
County Man Succumbs November
Marcus L. Davis, 79 years old, died Friday, November 3, at his home near Chandlersville, KY. Mr. Davis was born in Lawrence County but had spent most of his life in Johnson County. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Yates Davis and several children, two being Mrs. Charles G. Davis who until recently resided here and Mrs. P. A. Burton of Chandlersville. Funeral services and burial were held Sunday and a large number were present for the services. The Jones Funeral Home was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-9-1944
FYFFE, Harold
1944
HAROLD FYFFE BODY OF PVT. FYFFE RETURNED WEDNESDAY
The body of Pvt. Harold Fyffe, 19, son of Mrs. Dora Daniel of King Addition was returned Wednesday, December 17, and was taken to the home of his mother.  He was killed in Germany on November 18, 1944. Funeral services were held at the home on Thursday at 1:30 P. M.  The body will remain in the home until Friday morning when it will be taken to the Camp Nelson National Cemetery near Nicholasville, Ky., for burial. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 18, 1947
  
OSBORN, Nannie (Day)
1944
Offutt Woman Dies November 28.
Mrs.Nannie Day Osborn of Offutt passed away at the home of her family on November 28 following an extended illness. She was a native of Ross County O; The daughter of the late W.M. and Catherine Stookey Day. Surviving is one sister Mrs. W.J Walters of Offutt. The body was returned today to Frankfort Ohio where Funeral services and interment will be made. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 23,1944
PENIX, Mary (Mollette)
1944
The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Co. reports the deaths of two well known mother of the county, Mrs. Talitha Katherine Bayes, Oil Springs, and Mrs. Mary Penix of Boons Camp, both of whom have been life-long residents of their communities and leave a host of relatives and friends to mourn their passing. Mrs. Bayes succumbed November 10 at her home on Hargus Creek in the Oil Springs section. She was 78 years of age and had been critically ill five weeks. Her husband J. J. Bayes, a prominent farmer of that neighborhood preceded her in death a few months ago. Surviving are the following children: Moody, John Charles and Mark Bayes, Mrs. Callie Long and Mrs. James Fairchild, all of Oil Springs, Mrs. Oscar Salyer, Flat Gap, Dard Bayes and Mrs. Rolla Conley of Mt. Sterling, Ohio, and Prentiss Bayes of Dayton, O. Also surviving is a brother Dick Fairchild of Indiana. Mrs. Bayes was a member of the United Baptist Church, and funeral services, held November 12, were in charge of Elders Lonza Reed and Scott Castle.
Death called Mrs. Mary Penix, 79, on Friday, November 17, at her home at Boons Camp. She had been confined to her home the past year because of infirmities but until that time had taken an active part in her community life being always ready to assist her neighbors in time of trouble. She was the daughter of the late John Mollette, Boons Camp, and was married to Richard Penix, who died several years ago. Their children are Mrs. Ernest Walters, and W. A. Penix, Boons Camp, J. B. Penix, Jimmie Penix and Mrs. Mary Margaret Walters, Williamsport, Mrs. Clara Ward, Van Lear, and Mrs. Ed Sammons, Dayton, O. Sisters surviving Mrs. Penix are, Mrs. Susan McGinnis, Davella, Mrs. Lizzie Sturgill and Mrs. Vina Ward of Boons Camp. Mrs. Penix was also a member of the United Baptist Church of which church she had been a member 61 years. The funeral was held Saturday at the church at Boons Camp with Elders John Butcher, Winfrey Meek, and Glenn Arrowood officiating. Several hundred persons were present at the funeral of Mrs. Bayes and Mrs. Penix to pay their last respects. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY NOV. 23, 1944
PENNINGTON, W. R.
1944
W. R. Pennington Funeral services were held Wednesday for W. R. Pennington, 75, of Elna, who died  November 12 at the Paintsville Hospital. He had been ill six weeks. He is survived by his wife and a number of children and a host of relatives. Services were conducted by Elder Lonza Reed and burial was made in the Ham  Pennington Cemetery. Paintsville Herald  Thursday 11-16-1944
RATLIFF, Maudie (Spradlin)
1944
Death Takes Mrs. Lonnie Ratliff
Death visited the home of Lonnie Ratliff, Thursday, November 2, 1944. taking his companion Mrs. Maudie Spradlin Ratliff. She leaves to mourn their loss besides her husband, seven children, Harmon of Barnetts Creek, Worth Arvil, Marvin, Beatrice and Mrs. Hanger Ward of Denver, Arnold in service overseas. She also had two children who died in infancy. The following brothers and sisters survive; Oliver Spradlin, West Van Lear, Mrs. Dollie Collins, Beaver Creek, Mrs. Goldie Collins, city, Mrs. Malcom Pelphrey of West Van Lear, besides a host of relatives and friends. Rev. Scott Castle and Rev. Fred Rowland had charge of the burial services.  She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church of Rockhouse and was laid to rest in the family cemetery near Eli Ratliff’s on Barnetts Creek by the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 11-09-1944
ROBINETT, Orville
1944
ORVILLE ROBINETT
Orville Robinett, eight-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Robinett was killed instantly November 10 when struck by a car at Albion, Mich. The body was returned to Johnson County where funeral and burial were held at Offutt Tuesday, Elders Daniel and Guy W. Preston officiating. Orville is survived by his parents, one brother and two sisters. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 16, 1944
SALYER, Elmer H.
1944
Paintsville Herald
Thursday Dec. 12, 23
RED BUSH YOUTH KILLED IN ITALY
The Adjutant General notified Mr. And Mrs. Freeman Salyer, Red Bush, that there son, Pfc. Elmer H. Salyer, 23, was killed in auction on November 28, in Italy. Salyer was inducted by the local board on February 21, 1942. Prior to his entering the armed forces he had done farm work at home. To this bereaved family, we extend deep sympathy. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 6, 1944 In confirming the telegram notifying Mr. And Mrs. Freeman Salyer, Red Bush, of the death of their son, Elmer H. Salyer, the adjutant General has written the following letter dated December 17, to the bereaved parents: Dear Mr. & Mrs. Salyer, It is with regret that I am writing to confirm the recent telegram informing you of the death of your son, Pfc., Elmer H. Salyer, who was killed in action on the 28th of November, 1943, in Italy. “ I fully understand your desire to learn as much as possible regarding the circumstances leading to his death and I wish that there were more information available to give you. Unfortunately, reports of this nature contain only the briefest details as they are prepared under battle conditions and the means of transmission are limited”. “I know the sorrow this message has brought you and it is my hope that in time the knowledge of his heroic service in defense of his country, even unto death, maybe of sustaining comfort to you. “Sincerely yours, J. A. Ulio, Major General The Adjutant General” Paintsville Herald  Thursday January 6, 1944
Pfc. Elmer H. Salyer, son of Freeman and Pearlie Salyer, of Red Bush, was killed on November 28, 1943, in Italy. Salyer was inducted in the army on February 21, 1942. He has served eight months of oversea duty. Part of this time was served in North Africa, the rest of this time in Italy. His father, Freeman, also served overseas in World War I. Four sisters besides his mother and father survive, Dorothy Johnson, Chillicothe, Ohio. She is employed in a power plant there. Her husband, Chas L. Johnson is in the army. He is in Italy. Christine, Opal and Tribly, all of Red Bush. Besides the family he has many relatives and friends in Kentucky and Ohio. He also has many relatives serving in the armed forces.  Elmer is the only son in the Salyer family. He was kind hearted and brave and loved by all who knew him. We feel like while he is our loss he is heaven’s gain.
SELLERS, Irene (LaViers)
1893-1944
Irene LaViers Sellers Buried Here
Irene LaViers Sellers, a former resident of this city, died at her home at 2151 Fairfax Rd., Columbus, Ohio, on last Friday, November 24. Mrs. Sellers was born in Columbus, on March 14, 1893 and moved to Paintsville from Wellston, Ohio in 1906. She spent her early life in this city, attending the Sandy Valley Seminary and later completing her education, majoring in music at Glendale College at Glendale, Ohio.  Mrs. Sellers in early life became a member of the Missionary Baptist Church in Paintsville, and active in all the church affairs of the young people taking a special interest in the music of the church. In 1916 she was married to Mr. John Paul Sellers and went to live at Goshen, Ind., later moving to Columbus, Ohio, where she had resided for the past 13 years. Mrs. Sellers frequently visited her old home here, and often entertained her friends in her home in Columbus.  Because of her unusually cheerful disposition and her warm interest in friends and acquaintances, her passing will be a great loss to all who knew her. Funeral services were conducted a the Moody-Straley Funeral Home in Columbus on Sunday, November 26, and also at the home of her parents in Paintsville on Monday, November 27, followed by burial in the Mayo Cemetery. Mrs. Sellers is survived by one son Pvt. John Paul Seller, Jr., Air Cadet, U. S. Army Air Forces at Lubbock, Texas; one daughter, Mrs. Margaret Ann Benedict and granddaughter Cheryl Lynn of Columbus; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry LaViers and one brother, Harry LaViers of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Thursday November 23, 1944
WARD, Challie
1944
CHALLIE WARD
Challie Ward, 30, of Hager Hill passed away after a week’s illness at the Paintsville Hospital, November 10.  Funeral services were held with the Buffalo church of United Baptist Sunday and burial was made in the Ward cemetery on Buffalo. Mr. Ward was the son of Bennie Ward, Meally.  His mother preceded him in death some months ago. A number of brothers and sisters survive. Paintsville Herald Wednesday November 16, 1944
WEBB, Charles E.
1944
PFC. CHARLES E. WEBB
Killed in action on November 25, 1944, in France, Pfc. Charles E. Webb, 22, was the youngest son of Leander Webb of Oil Springs. He entered the army on February 18, 1943, taking his training at Ft. Lewis, Washington, Camp Phillips, Kansas and Shreveport, La., before going overseas on September 10, 1944. He has eight brothers and sisters, Arwood Webb with the navy stationed on the East Coast, George Webb, Springfield, Ohio, Linzie Webb, Kenwood, Ozie Webb, Oil Springs, Jimmie Webb, Barnetts Creek, Mrs. Joy Baldwin, Fairfield, Ohio, Mrs. Dortha Stapleton, Oil Springs and Gladys Webb at home. The Paintsville Herald Thursday June 7, 1945 
Rock House Soldier Is Wounded Twice
The death of Charlie Webb, son of Leander Webb, Oil Springs, has been reported by the War Department. Death came in action in Europe. He is survived by his father, three sisters and four brothers, and was next to the youngest child in the family. The Paintsville Herald Thursday Dec. 14, 1944
DECEMBER - 1944


BLEVINS, Esther Delores
1944
WHITE HOUSE
JAN. 03 1945
Esther Delores the 3 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Blevins died with diphtheria at the home of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Stepp. She was laid to rest in the Ramey Cemetery December 20 1944. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-4-1945
BORDERS, Henry
1944
HENRY BORDERS, 58 DIES DECEMBER 3
Henry Borders, 58 years old, Ulyses, Ky., died December 3, 1944. Son of the late Mike and Alice Borders he is survived by the following:Three children, Hestel Borders, Paintsville; Ethel and Gladys Borders at home, three brothers, Roscoe and Monroe Borders, Ulyses; Charles Borders, Van Lear; one sister, Mrs. Walter Castle, Ulysses and three grandchildren. Services were conducted by the Revs. Claude Preston and Byrd Webb. Arrangements were in charged of the Preston Funeral Home. Burial was in the Borders Cemetery. A large crowd attended. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY DEC. 21 1944
CANTRELL, Carl
1915-1944
Mrs. Easter Cantrell of Flat Gap, has been notified that her husband Pfc. Carl Cantrell, was killed in action at Luxembourg on December 26, 1944. He was 29 years of age and the son of Mr. and Mrs. James H. Cantrell, of Flat Gap. He entered the service March 1?, 1944, receiving his training at Camp Blanding, Florida, where his wife stayed with him until he went overseas in August.  He had been serving on the front line since September 15, 1944 with General Patton's Third Army and was wounded October 10 in France when he received the Purple heart. Before entering the service he was employed at Patterson Field as a crane operator. A brother in service is Cpl. Arless W. Cantrell in England, and a brother-in-law, Darrell Gretchell Estepp SKV 3-c, is assigned to the South Pacific. Mrs. Cantrell is living at their home at Flat Gap. The Paintsville Herald Thursday March 1, 1944 Funeral services for Pfc. Carl Cantrell, 29, a casualty of World War II, who lost his life December 26, 1944, in Luxemborg, Germany, were held on Sunday, April 24, 1949,a t 10:00 a. m., at the home of his parents, by Revs. Leonard Walters, Lonza Reed, and Charlie Estep. Pfc. Cantrell, the son of Mr. and Mrs. James H. Cantrell, was born December 20, 1915, at Flat Gap, Kentucky, where he lived until he entered the service. Besides his parents, he is survived by two sisters, Mary Fay Cantrell, and Minnie Gay Cantrell, Flat Gap, and four brothers, Millard H., Dayton, Ohio, Arless W., Scott Field, Ill., James Emory and Eulas Paul Cantrell, both of Flat Gap. Burial was in the family cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 4-21-1949
CANTRELL, Mrs. Tom
1944
Mrs. Tom Cantrell died suddenly last Thursday night, December 28, 1944, at her home at Win, Ky. Wife of one of the county's most prominent political leaders, Mrs. Cantrell had been ill for three years. Her condition had not been considered critical and she has eaten a hearty meal for supper, then died about 11 that night. Besides her husband, Mrs. Cantrell is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Jeff Colvin and Mrs. Charles Cochran of Win and Mrs. Junior Hudson, Dayton, O.; five sons, Bryan, Carl and Burns of Win; Robert Cantrell in the army in this country and Burl Cantrell with the army in France. Mrs. Cantrell was a member of the United Baptist Church. Funeral services were conducted at the home Friday by preachers Lonza Reed, Theodore Williams, and Oscar McCarty. The undertaking department of the Paintsville Furniture Co. had charge of the arrangements. The Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-4-1945
CASTLE, Carl F.
1921-1944
VAN LEAR BOY IS WAR VICTIM
Carl F. Castle Killed In France T-Sgt. Carl F. Castle, 23 years old, nephew and foster son of Mr. and Mrs. James King, Van Lear, and husband of Mrs. Emma J. Castle, Martin, was killed in action in France December 14, according to a telegram sent to his wife by the War Department this week. Son of Preston Castle and the late Mrs. Castle, Van Lear, Sergeant Castle was raised from a small child by his uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Jim King. Sergeant Castle entered service five years ago.  He served in Iceland for a year, was returned to the United States, then later sent overseas last October.  He attended the Van Lear Schools. Paintsville Herald Thursday January 11, 1945 CARL F. CASTLE Funeral services were held Sunday for T-3 Carl F. Castle, a casualty of World War II, at the home of his aunt, Mrs. James King and Mr. King, at Van Lear. T-3 Castle was 23 at the time of his death, which occurred in battle in France on December 14, 1944.  He was born May 30, 1921, the son of Farris and Jennie Williams Castle.  His mother preceded him in death several years ago. Besides his father, he is survived by his wife, Mrs. Emily Begley Castle, one sister, Mrs. Homer Fyffe, and one half-sister, Miss Marie Castle of Wabash, Ind. Revs. Elzie Banks, Leonard Walters, Cully Sparks, and Lonza Reed conducted the funeral.  Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Note: This cemetery is also known as the "Clubhouse Cemetery". Paintsville Herald  Thursday January 27, 1949
CAUDILL, Darwin
1921-1944
BODY OF LT. DARWIN CAUDILL RETURNED FOR BURIAL
The body of 1st. Lt. Darwin Caudill of Lowmansville, arrived at Prestonsburg, December 07, under escort of 1st. Lt. Bruce L. Kelly, Provisional Escort Department, Columbus, Ohio. His body was removed to the home of his parents at Lowmansville, after being received at the Arnold Funeral Home.  The funeral was conducted at Garrett where he spent most of his life before entering the Army. Those who participated in the funeral were the Revs. Green Allen, of Garrett, Hargis Conley, of Riceville, and Alex Coburn of Garrett.  The Tom’s Creek choir sang songs selected for the occasion. Lt. Caudill was born November 02, 1921, and died December 03, 1944 of wounds in Germany while in the medical corps.  He was 23 years old at the time of his death. He is survived by his parents, one brother, Dallas Caudill, of Leander, two sisters, Miss Dorothy Caudill, of Lowmansville and Mrs.Daisy Campbell of Garrett, and his widow, Ruby Caudill Gilliam of Neon and a host of relatives and friends. Military honors were accorded by the American Legion and Veterans of  Foreign Wars at the grave in the family cemetery on Abbott Creek, in Floyd Co. Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-18-1947
DANIEL, Willie L. "Pub"
1944
W. L. (Pub) Daniel, Lowmansville, Dies
Willie L. (Pub) Daniel, 58 years old died December 23,1944, at the home of his son,Ray Daniel, Lowmansville after three years illness. He married Lizzie Brooks of River. To this union were born 11 children. His wife died in September. Besides his children, a number of brothers and sisters survive. Services were held at the old home place with the Elder Guy W. Preston officiating. Burial was in the home cemetery. The Preston Funeral Home was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday 1-4-1945
LITTERAL, George
1944
Rites June 13
For War Casualty
Funeral services for Pvt. George Litteral, 21, a casualty of World War II, were held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 13, at the Freewill Baptist Church, by the Revs. Scott Castle, Don Fraley, and Charles Bailey. Pvt. Litteral died in Italy on December 1, 1944. He was born in Paintsville, where he lived until going overseas. He was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. His parents, Powell and Alice Litteral preceded him in death. He is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Earl Perkins, Salyersville, and Miss Lucille Litteral, Wayne County, West Virginia, and four brothers, Willie, Thelma, KY., Taylor, James E., and Gene W., all of Lakeville, Ky. Reinterment was in the family cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday 6-16-1949
MCKENZIE, Julia
1944
Keaton Lady Dies
Mrs. Julia McKenzie, 49, wife of John W. McKenzie of Keaton died in a local hospital Thursday evening following a very short illness. Mrs. McKenzie was the mother of Mrs. J. S. Lyon who with her four children were killed in a railroad grade crossing accident near Columbus, Ohio last March. Funeral and burial services were held Sunday at the home and she was placed near her daughter and four children who were buried at one time. She is survived by her husband and four other children.  The Jones Funeral Home was in charge. Paintsville Herald Thursday December 14, 1944
MURRAY, Edith
1944
EDITH MURRAY WITTENSVILLE GIRL  DIED DECEMBER 22
Miss Edith Murray, 22 years old, daughter of Mr. And Mrs. George Murray, Wittensville, died December 22 at the home.  She had been suffering from tuberculosis for a year. Besides her parents Miss Murray is survived by the following brothers and sisters; Edgie, Ellie, Alvin and Billie. Funeral services were held at their old home near Kerz with Elder Guy W. Preston officiating. Burial was in the family cemetery at Kerz.  The Preston Funeral Home had charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Wednesday January 04, 1945
PELPHREY, D.B.
1944
D. B. Pelphrey Of Garrad Co. Dies
D. B. Pelphrey, of Lancaster, Ky., died at his home December 27. Mr. pelphrey was born in Johnson County June 21, 1885, the son of the late Harris and Mary spradlin Pelphrey. Mr. Pelphrey was a teacher of Johnson county school for a number of years. He was married to Beulah S. Carson, of Stanford, Ky., and she with her only daughter, Nell Pelphrey survive. The following sisters and brothers also survive, Mrs. Lawrence Conley and Mrs. Irvin Spradlin, Don pelphrey, Denver, Paris Pelphrey, Baltimore, md., Ray Pelphrey, Pikeville, Labe and J. H. Pelphrey Paintsville. He loved his family, his church and his friends. He had been clerk at the Lancaster Baptist Church for a number of years. Funeral services were held at the Lancaster Baptist Church, Friday December 29, conducted the pastor Rev. James L. Robinson. Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-11-1945
PENIX, John C. "Port"
1944
PORT PENIX DIED DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS
John C. (Port) Penix, 46, Boons Camp died in the Golden Rule Hospital December 24 after a two weeks illness. Funeral services were held Tuesday in the home. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Stella (Dutton) Penix and the following children: John Melvin; Joe, Mrs. Alberta Daniel; Homer, Patricia Jeane, Jack, Lillia May and Othel Penix. The Preston Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. PAINTSVILLE HERALD THURSDAY JAN. 4, 1945
PORTER, Mrs. Ben
1944
Death Claims Mrs. Ben Porter
After an illness of several months, Mrs. Ben Porter, 75, passed away Sunday evening at  her home on Fourth Street.  Her husband had preceded her in death some months ago. Mrs. Porter was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church where funeral services were  held Wednesday. Burial was made in the family cemetery in Martin County. The Porters came to Paintsville from Martin County approximately twenty-four years  ago, making their home here continuously since that time. She is survived by the following children: Mrs. Homer Robinson and  Frank Porter of  Inez and Paul and Mabel Porter, city. The Jones Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald  Thursday 12-7-1944
PRESTON, Mary E. (VanHoose)
1944
Aged Mother Is Buried
Funeral Home Reports Death of Two The Preston Funeral Home reports the deaths of Mrs. Mary E. Preston, ninety-two year old mother of Meally and Henry Borders, 58, Ulysses, Lawrence County Kentucky. Mrs. Preston passed away at her home Monday after a brief illness brought on by excitement caused when the home caught fire a week ago.  She made her home with her son Willie.  Other children surviving are Mrs. W. J. Ward, Mrs. Mirt Akers, George and Mrs. Artie Harris.  Her husband and a son Heirford have proceeded her in death. Funeral services were held with the Buffalo Church of United Baptist Wednesday morning, Elders L. T. Preston and Elzie Banks officiating.  She was laid to rest beside her husband in the family cemetery at Thelma. Mr. Borders died Sunday morning at his home at Ulysses after a lingering sickness from a heart ailment.  He was buried Tuesday services being held at the Lick Long Church of Freewill Baptist. His wife preceded him in death four years ago.  He is survived by one son, Hestil, and two daughters, Ethel and Gladys, and a host of relatives and friends throughout this section. Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-7-1944
PRESTON, Thelma (Wheeler)
1907-1944
December 14, 1944
Last Rights Held Dec. 11: “On Friday morning, December 8, 1944,
Thelma Wheeler Preston of 648 Preston Street, Paintsville, was stricken suddenly with acute Bright’s disease. She was rushed to the Paintsville Hospital where everything possible was done to save her life, however, skilled physicians had to stand aside when the Great Physician called for her at 5:00 a. m. Saturday, December 9, 1944.” “She leaves to mourn their loss her husband S. K. Preston and two children Patsy Jane and Joe Kenneth.” “Funeral services were held at the United Baptist church Monday, December 11 with Revs. W. H. McKenzie, F. F. Rigsby, Dennis Williams and Sandy Phillips officiating. Burial was in the family cemetery at Flat Gap.” “Pallbearers were: Howard Sparks, Oakley Sparks, J. O. Sparks, C. J. Sparks, John Leonard Spears, Rodney Picklesimer and O. I. Williams.” “The flowers girls were Allene Dyer, Jerry Dyer, Juanita Rigsby, Patsy VanHoose, Patty Meade, Marion Hondell, Elizabeth Lou VanHoose, Anna Lee Haines, Neldred Picklesimer, Carol Dorton, Billy Jean and Ernestine Trimble.” “Paintsville Funeral Home was in charge.” Society: “Out-of-town visitors attending the funeral of Mrs. S. K. Preston were: Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Preston, Jr., Seco, Ky.; Rev. Sandy Phillips, Kelley Lockhart, Mrs. B. C. Wheeler, Pershing Wheeler, Miss Ola Louise Wheeler, all of Lucasville, Ohio; Mrs. Russell Bailey, Huntington; Harry Phillips, Louisa; Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Wheeler, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Williams and daughters, Evelyn Arnell and Ruth Frances.”
 Obituary: “Thelma Wheeler Preston residing at 648 Preston Street, Paintsville, Kentucky, passed away December 9, 1944 following an illness of less than a day. Death was due to acute Bright’s disease.” “The deceased was born in Winifred, Kentucky on September 18, 1907. Age 37 years, 3 months and 1 day.” “She was the daughter of the late William Henderson Wheeler and Eliza Phillips Wheeler, long time residents of Johnson County. She was an honor student and graduated from Paintsville High school in class of 1927 and attended Morehead State Teacher’s College and was a former teacher in the Public Schools of the county before her marriage on October 19, 1929 to S. K. Preston of this city. To this union were born two children, Patsy Jane, 13 years old and Joe Kenneth 12.” “Thelma (Dot as she was familiarly known to every one) was converted and joined the Church of the United Baptist of Bethel Chapel June 4, 1926.” “She lived a consecrated Christian life, with her cares centered on home, family and church. Her light has shown out among those who knew her. Her gaiety and cheerfulness will be missed by both relatives and friends.” “God’s loving voice has beckoned her home, she has answered the call, is a jewel in Heaven’s windows as a brilliant star begging her loved ones to come.” “ Besides her immediate family, she leaves to mourn her passing the following brothers and sisters Wm. T. Wheeler and Mrs. A. L. Williams, Ashland, Ky., Mrs. Wiley Ward, Winifred, Ky., Mrs. B. J. Hall and Mrs. A. T. Pack of Paintsville, Ky.” “A precious one from us has gone, A voice we loved is stilled; A place is vacant in our home, Which will never be filled. God in his wisdom has recalled The boon His love has given, And though the body slumbers here, The soul is safe in Heaven.” “Funeral services were held at the Paintsville United Baptist Church Monday, December 11, 1944, with Revs. W. H. McKenzie, F. F. Rigsby, Dennis Williams and Sandy Phillips officiating.” “Burial in the family cemetery at Flat Gap with the Paintsville Funeral Home in charge of arrangement.” Rock House News: “Herschell Gullett and Arnold Flint of Paintsville were the Thursday dinner guests of Mr. Rodney Pickle (sic).” December 21, 1944 Card Of Thanks: “We wish to thank our many friends and neighbors for their kindness and sympathy shown us during the short illness and death of our dear wife and mother, Thelma Wheeler Preston. We especially thank all the members of the church and the preachers for words of consolation, the Paintsville Funeral Home, the pallbearers, all who sent flowers, the flower girls, those who generously furnished cars, Dr. Archer for his untiring efforts and all who helped in any way to make our grief less to bear. S. K. Preston And children”
STANIFORD, Samuel
1944
BOONS CAMP MAN DIES
Samuel Stanford to be buried Tuesday The Preston Funeral Home reports the death of Samuel Staniford, 68 passed away December 10 after a six weeks illness caused by glandular trouble. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at the Little Friendship Church of United Baptists at Boons Camp, burial following in the home cemetery. Deceased was the son of the late Zachariah Stanford, was a veteran of the Spanish American War, serving in the Philippine Islands during that conflict. He was a member of the Little Friendship Church. DECEMBER 14, 1944 THURSDAY PAINTSVILLE HERALD
VANHOOSE, Hazel Irene
1944
VanHoose Infant Died Thursday
Hazel Irene VanHoose, 8-month-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn VanHoose, Lowmansville, died December 14 after two weeks illness from pneumonia. Funeral services were held Friday at the residence by Revs. Nathan VanHoose and Verner VanHoose.  Other survivors are two borthers, James and Kenneth P. VanHoose, and two sisters, Jeanetta and Deores J. VanHoose. Burial was at Lowmansville.  The Preston Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Paintsville Herald Thursday 12-21-1944
WARD, James W.
1944
FORMER COUNTY MAN DIES
James W. Ward, 83, died in a local hospital, Saturday afternoon following a stroke. He was the father of 11 children, nine of whom survive him.  He is also survived by 77 grandchildren and 77 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at the Auxier Church, Monday at 1:30 by Rev. S.C. Honeycutt followed by burial in the family cemetery near Auxier under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald  Thursday 12-07-1944
WELLS, Herbert S.
1944
Missing Airman Is Listed As Dead
Mrs. Ella Wells, Boons Camp was advised by the War Department under date of Monday, December 31, 1945, that an official finding of the death of her son, T Sgt. Herbert S. Wells, has been recorded. S Sgt. Wells was a crew member of a B-25 (Mitchell) bomber which departed from Attu on Friday, December 29, 1944 on a photographic mission to the Kurile Islands.  The aircraft when last contacted by radio was near the Northern Kuriles. Mrs. Wells is advised by the Adjutant General’s Office that this finding does not establish an actual or probable date of death. Major General Edward F. Witsell of the War Department in his letter to Mrs. Wells, writes. “I regret the necessity for this message but trust that the ending of a long period of uncertainty may give at least some small measure of consolation.  I hope you may find sustaining comfort in the thought that the uncertainty with which war has surrounded the absence of your son has enchanced the honor of his service to his country and of his sacrifice.” Paintsville Herald Thursday 01-17-1946
WHEELER, Charles T.
1944
C. T. WHEELER DIED DEC. 16
Grandson of S. Wheeler Was 20 Years Old
Charles T. Wheeler, 20 years old, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Wheeler, Paintsville, died last Saturday after three weeks illness. Funeral services were conducted Wednesday at the home of his grandmother, Mrs. Sanford Wheeler, City, by the Rev. F. F. Riggsby. Besides his parents and grandmother, Mr. Wheeler is survived by two sisters, Dena Mae and Ruby Marie Wheeler, and a brother, Edgar Ray Wheeler. Burial was in the Mayo Cemetery. Arrangements were made by the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Thursday December 21, 1944
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