1956    

JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
  HISTORICAL  & GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
PAINTSVILLE, KENTUCKY

 
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1956
 

  JOHNSON COUNTY KENTUCKY
RELATED OBITUARIES
1956
 
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JANUARY - 1956

AKERS, Minnie M. (Davis)
1887-1956
Rites Held Wednesday for Mrs. Minnie Akers
Mrs. Minnie M. Akers, 78, of New Boston, Ohio, died of complications at 5 am Monday, Jan. 30. in the Mercy Hospital, Portsmouth, Ohio.  She had suffered a broken hip two weeks ago. Born April 1, 1887 in Paintsville, she was a daughter of James and Naomi Davis, both of whom preceded her in death. She was converted at the age of 13 and joined the United Baptist Church at Concord.  She lived the life of a true Christian, a devoted mother and wife. She was preceded in death by her husband, R.W. Akers, and a daughter, Mrs. Loanna Hamilton. Surviving are a son, J.V. Akers, Portsmouth, Ohio; three daughters, Mrs. W.T. Harr, New Boston, Ohio; Mrs. Charles Lawson, New Boston, Ohio, and Mrs. J.R. Piles, Detroit, Mich.; 10 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. J. M. Hall of this city, and Mrs. Lorinda Spradlin of West Van Lear. Funeral services were conducted at 2 pm Wednesday, Feb. 1, at the New Boston Methodist Church. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Sowards Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday, February 8, 1956
BAILEY, Emit
1895-1956
FLAT GAP MAN DIES SUDDENLY
Services Held Thursday For Emit Bailey, 60, World War I Veteran
Emit Bailey, 60, died suddenly Tuesday morning, January 31, 1956 at his home at Flat gap.  Death was attributed to a heart attack. The son of D. B. and Rebecca Holbrook Bailey, he was born April 22, 1895, in Johnson County. He had been a resident of Flat Gap most of his life where he was engaged in farming.  He was a veteran of World War I. He is survived by one brother, W. H. Bailey of Flat Gap. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon, February 2, 1956 at the Flat Gap Enterprise Baptist Church with Lonza Reed as the officiating minister.  Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday February 8, 1956
BLAIR, Jess
1886-1956
Services Tuesday For Barnett's Creek Man
Jess Blair, 60, well known merchant and farmer of Barnett's Creek, died at his home at 10:00 a.m. January 29 1956, from the effects of a stroke suffered six weeks earlier. He was the brother of Mrs. G.C. Wells, Mrs. C.F. Walters, and Miss Lydia Blair, all of this city. The son of Frank and Nancy Adams Blair, he was born August 31 1886, at Barnett's Creek and was a lifelong resident of that community. He was married November 23 1905, to Daisy Lambert, who survives. Surviving besides his widow and three sisters are, six children; three daughters, Mrs. Alka Caudill, Denver; Mrs. Dixie Blair, and Mrs. Jessie King, both of Columbus, Ohio; three sons, John Franklin and Bernard Blair, all of Barnett's Creek. He is also survived by another sister, Mrs. Bernard Wells, Louisa, twenty grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. at the Green Valley schoolhouse at Barnett's Creek with Revs. Adrion Davis, Charlie Lemaster and Scott Castle as officiating ministers. Burial was in the family cemetery at Barnett's Creek under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 2-1- 1956
BURKE, Richard M.
1871-1956
R. M. Burke, 84,  Retired Farmer Dies January 31
R. M Burke, 84, a retried farmer, died at his home at Kerz Tuesday morning, January 31, following an illness of three days.  He was a member of the Christian Church. The son of the late Levi and Minerva Rice Burke, he was born March 13, 1871, in Johnson County. Surviving are his wife, Martha Lemaster Burke, four sons, Clarence Burke, Mechanicsburg, Ohio, Douglas, and Ray Vern Burke, All of Sitka; five daughters, Mrs. Ora Kimbler and Mrs. Dortha Crislip, both of Sitka, Mrs. Stella Osborne, Waverly, Ohio, Mrs Ludie McKenzie, Kerz, and Mrs. Jessie Adams, Walbridge, Ohio. 29 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Thursday morning, February 2, at the home with Harry Bruce Daniel officiating. Music was by the Sitka Singers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Sitka Friday morning with the Rev. Harry Slayers conducting graveside services. Burial was under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 2-8-1956
BUTLER, Gus
1874-1956
Gus Butler, 81, a well known citizen of Johnson County, died Wednesday night at his home at River, Ky., following an illness of several months. A member of one of Johnson County's pioneer families he was born October 25 1874, the son of George and Jane Preston Butler. He was a retired farmer and a member of the United Baptist Church since his youth. He is survived by his wife Lydia Spears Butler, four sons, George Butler, Detroit, Mich.; Robert Butler, and Clyde M. Butler, Grand Rapids, Mich.; and Estil Butler, Johnstown, Pennsyvania; and two daughters, Eva Lee Butler, River; and Mrs. Robert Carney, Washington, D.C. Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. Ella Butler, city; and Mrs. Lula Meade, Ashland. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday at the River United Baptist Church with C.C. Sparks, Grover Fannin and Paul Turner as officiating ministers. Music was by the Tom's Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Tom, Virgil, and Lon Butler; Bob McKenzie; Hannibal Meade; Crate Rice; Herschel, Russell, Raymond, and Broadus Spears. PAINTSVILLE HERALD JAN.18 1956
CASSADY, Alex C.
1956
Former Resident Of Martin County Dies January 12
Alex C. Cassady, 66, Dayton, Ohio, former resident of Inez, Ky., died Thursday morning, January 12, at the Brown Hospital, Veterans Administration Center, Dayton. A resident of Dayton for the past 32 years, he had been employed by the board of education there for 28 years until his retirement a few years ago.  He was a member of the Westwood Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife and one daughter, both of Dayton, Ohio, four sisters, Lucretia Cassady, Ashville, N. C., Mrs. Maxie Pack, Charleston, W. Va., Mrs. W. A. Cumbo, West Van Lear, and Mrs. Ernest Frith, Martinsville, Va., and two brothers Willie Cassady, Hillsboro, Ky., and G. A. Cassady, Inez. Burial was made in Memorial Cemetery, Dayton, Ohio. Paintsville Herald Wednesday January 25, 1956
CONLEY, Bayless
1956
Funeral Services Sunday, Jan. 29 For Bayless Conley Bayless Conley, 30, was killed in a rock fall in the mine of the Victoria Mining Company at Riceville about 7:00 a.m. Friday. Two other men, Tom Conley, uncle of the victim and Ed Sparks, received minor injuries and were hospitalized. All three were residents of the Riceville vicinity. The slate fall occured shortly after the men had entered the mine and the accident took place about 30 feet from the mouth of the mine opening. Sparks had leased the mine from its owners and was operating it under contract, it was learned. Conley was a son of Paris and Malta Hannah Conley and he had lived in the county his entire life. He is survived by his parents, his wife, one son, Hank Conley and two daughters, Diane and Connie. Also surviving are three brothers, Carl Conley, Oil Springs, William and Burnis, both of Riceville, four sisters, Mrs. Myrtle Patrick, Ivyton, Mrs. Edna Perkins, Carey, O., Mrs. Florence Caudill and Miss Merlyn Jean Conley, both of Riceville. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, January 29, at the Riceville Free Will Baptist Church by Reverend Scott Castle, and Rev. Grant Hitchcock, Jr. Songs were sung by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the Conley Cemetery at Oil Springs under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 02-01-1956
DANIEL, Freelan Huston
1880-1956
Freelan Houston Daniel was born October 6, 1880, and died January 7, 1956, at the age of 75 years. He was the son of Isom P. and Elizabeth Murry Daniel. He was married to Rebecca Jane Borders on June 15, 1901, who preceded him in death October 11, 1935. To this union were born four children: Estill F., Dayton, Ohio; Otchel T., Xenia, Ohio; Oval J., Dayton, Ohio;who survive, and one daughter, Fannie Marie, who died in infancy. On June 2, 1936, he was married to Rosa Dixon Butler who survives. Other survivors include five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, one step-son, Robert Earl Butler, and rwo step- grandchildren. Also surviving are three brothers, Edgar, Leonard, and Lawrence Daniel, all of Paintsville, and one sister, Mrs. Fannie Hayes of Kerz. One brother and one sister preceded him in death. He also left a host relatives and friends to mourn his passing. He was converted and joined the Sugar Grove United Baptist Church in his early twenties and lived a consecrated and joyful Christian life. One of his greatest enjoyments was to attend church and express his great love for God and his fellow brethen and sisters. The weather was never to bad nor the distance too great for him to attend church or to visit his many friends and relatives whether they were sick or well. During his lifetime he worked for the Consolidation Coal Company at Van Lear, approximately thirty years. During this time he was a blacksmith and shop foreman. He served several years as a member of the Van Lear Town Council and as president of the United Mine Workers Local No. 5835. He served his community in every way possible and was always interested in better conditions in his community. His great love and appreciation for his fellow man and their problems resulted in his having many friends. His absence from the community with his ever-present smile will be greatly missed even though he has gone to a better place. He had been in excellent health until Wednesday night before his unexpected passing at Saturday noon. He was taken to the Paintsville Hospital Friday morning and did not appear to seriously ill until approximately 9:30 Saturday morning. His sons were notified but he passed away so suddenly that they did not get to see him before his death. However his wife, Rosa, and his step-son Robert Earl, were constantly at his bedside. His unexpected passing was indeed a great shock to all. A precious one from us is gone, A voice we loved is stilled, A vacant place is in our home Which never can be filled. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 1-18-1956
GAMBILL, James
1887-1956
1-11-1956 James Gambill Thelma Resident, Dies Wednesday
Funeral services will be held Friday, January 13, at 10:30 a.m., at the home at Thelma for James M. Gambill, 78, well-known resident of this county, who died Wednesday morning at his home following an illness of a year. The son of the late William Henry and Alifair Gambill, he was born April 23, 1887, at River, Ky. A resident of Thelma for the past 17 years he was a retired miner and a member of the Baptist Church. He was married December 26, 1900, to Rosa Daniel who survives. Surviving besides his wife are two sons, William H. Gambill, Ashland, and Daniel J. Gambill, Thelma, one brother, John C. Gambill, River, one sister, Mrs. Sallie Perry, Roanoke, Virginia, and four grandchildren. Burial will be made in the family cemetery at Thelma under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Wednesday January 11, 1956
James Martin Gambill was born April 23, 1877, departed this life January 11, 1956, age 78 years, 8 months and 18 days. He was the son of William and Alifair Ward Gambill. He was married to Rosa Daniels December 26, 1900, and to this union were born four children. Two passed away in infancy. Elder Gambill, a member of the Old Baptist Church for 56 years, was an ordained minister for 29 years and was faithful to his calling. His burdens were many, and his pilgrimage a rough and toilsome one, but the God whom he loved has verified His promise and has lifted not the burden from him, but has lifted from his burden. Elder Gambill is gone from the presence of his friends and loved ones but his works and the memory of him continue on. He leaves to mourn his loss, his wife, two sons, Dan J. Gambill, Thelma, and W. H. Gambill, Ashland; one brother, John C. Gambill, River, one sister, Mrs. Sallie Perry, Roanoke, Va.; four grandchildren and many other relatives and friends. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Wednesday January 18, 1956
HAGER, Edna E.
1891-1956
Ex-Newspaper Woman;
Official of City, Dies
Funeral Services Today for Edna E. Hager
Miss Edna E. Hager, 64, former newspaper woman, and the only woman ever to serve on the Paintsville City Council, died in a Lexington hospital Monday, January 2, from pneumonia.  She had been in ill health for about three years. She was elected as a member of the city council in 1941 and served in this post until 1944. She spent several years on the staff of the Paintsville Herald when this newspaper was owned and edited by the late Charlie Kirk.  Her interest in the civic life of this community, where she was loved and respected by all who knew her, led her many times into public positions. Her last work was for the government on a local rationing board during World War II. Miss Hager was the daughter of the late Dan M. and Jane Melvin Hager, and was a member of a widely-known and prominent family.  She was born March 4, 1891 and had lived in Paintsville all her life until her late illness.  She was a member of the First Methodist Church. Surviving are one brother, Russell Hager, local druggist of this city, and one half-sister, Mrs. Virgie Geiger, also of this city. Funeral services were held at 10:30 this morning at the chapel of the Preston Funeral Home by the Reverend W. F. Pettus. Burial was made in the Town Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 1-4-1956
HALL, Hester (Rice)
1956
Graveside Services Held For Former Resident
Mrs. Hester Rice Hall, 58 wife of C. Mitchell Hall of Baltimore, Maryland died Sunday morning at the Union Memorial Hospital, Baltimore, following an illness of six months. A member of one of Johnson Countie's most prominent families, she was the daughter of the late Nathaniel Jackson and Katherine McCloud Rice of Colista. She attended the Paintsville High School and the John C. C. Mayo College, where she took a normal course for teachers. She taught in the Johnson County schools for several terms. Mrs. Hall became a member of the Missionary Baptist Church in 1914. She was married June 17, 1920 to C. Mitchell Hall, son of Mrs. Melvin Hall of this city and the late Judge Hall. Mrs. Hall a loving wife and mother devoted her life to her family, her church, and numerous friends.Her childhood was based on Jesus' teachings of "honor thy father and thy mother" She is survived by her husband and two sons; Dr. Maurice Mitchel Hall of this city; and Paul Ronald Hall Baltimore, who is a student at the University of Maryland, and three grandchildren; Thomas Ashley, Susan Lynette and Alan Mitchel Hall, all of this city. Also surviving are two sisters; Mrs. Bert Watkins, Lesage, W. Va., and Mrs. Clyde Preston, West Van Lear, and one brother, John Russell Rice of Chillicothe, Ohio. The body was brought to Paintsville Tuesday where graveside services were held at the family cemetery at Davis Branch. The Rev. Homer Willis and the Rev. Walter Hooper conducted the services and music was by the Tom's Creek Quartet. Burial was under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY JANUARY 18, 1956
HILL, Selina
1956
Mrs. Selina Hill Dies Wednesday
Services Held Friday For Aged Resident Of Morgan County Mrs. Selina Hill, 89, died Wednesday afternoon, January 4, at the home of her son, Wayne Hill, Relief, Ky., following an illness of two months. Death was attributed to pneumonia. A member of the Enterprise Baptist Church, she had been a resident of Relief for sixty-five years. She was preceded in death in 1917 by her husband, Thorten W. Hill. Surviving are three sons, Wayne and Van Hill, both of Relief, and Marvin Hill, Ashland, one daughter, Mrs. Georgia Sherman, Portsmouth, Ohio, one brother, Van Williams, Portsmouth, Ohio, 22, grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at the home of Wayne Hill with Emory Ferguson and A. C. Bradley as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Relief under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 1-11-1956
JOHNSON, Virgie (Music)
1893-1956
Funeral Services Today For Hager Hill Woman
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. today, for Mrs Virgie Johnson, 62, of Hager Hill who passed away Sunday morning  in a local hospital. She had ill for about five months with cancer and had undergone major surgery at the Methodist Hospiatl in Pikeville. Born in Johnson County on September 1 1893, she was a daughter of the late John Andrew and Nancy Hyden Music. She was a member of a widely known and prominent family of this locality. She was affiliated with the Church of Christ of East Point. On July 4 1912, she was married to Stonewall Johnson who survives her. Other survivors are six sons, Marlyn and Norman Johnson of Mansfield,Ohio; Charles, Alvin, Morris and William Johnson, all of Hager Hill; and ten grandchildren. besides many other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held by the Reverend Joseph Zavadsky of this city, Reverend Vern Conley and Reverend Edgar Preston. Music was furnished by the Tom's Creek Quaret. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Hager Hill under the directions of the Jones-Preston Funeral Home.  Paintsville Herald Wednesday 1-18-1956
NOTE: This cemetery is also known as the "MUSIC-HAYDEN CEMETERY"
KEENAN, James B.
1956
SERVICES FRIDAY FOR J. B. KEENAN
James B. Keenan, 50 died Monday, in Logan, Ohio, from a heart attack. A partner of the Keenan and Eisart Drilling Company, he was engaged in drilling operations in Logan, at the time of his sudden death. A native of Olean, New York, he and his family had resided in Paintsville for the past two years. He is survived by his wife, Helen, two sons, William and Michael both at home, and his sister-n-law, Mrs. Gerals F. Brown, of this city. Funeral services will be conducted Friday morning at the St. Bonaventure Church in Olean, New York  Paintsville Herald Wednesday 1-11-1956
KELLY, Samuel Edward
1956
SAMUEL KELLY, NATIVE OF COUNTY, DIES IN NEW YORK
Funeral services were conducted December 27 at the Clarence F. Simonson Funeral Home in New York for Samuel Edward Kelly, 75, of Kew Gardens, Long Island, N. Y. who died December 23 at his home. Mr. Kelly was born in Block House Bottom at East Point, a son of the late John S. and Adelaide Auxier Kelly.  He had been in poor health since suffering a heart attack in 1952 and had been seriously ill for two weeks before his death. After his graduation from Harvard University in 1905, he practiced law for a short time in New York.  Later he became a building contractor in New York and on Long Island. He was a brother of Mrs. Margaret Donnally and Mrs. Gertrude Auxier of Huntington.  Other survivors include the widow, Mrs. Louise Kelly; two sons, John and Hugh Kelly of New York.  He was preceded in death by a daughter, June, and a sister, Mrs. Nora Robinson of St. Louis. Burial was in the Maple Grove Memorial Cemetery, Kew Gardens, Long Island. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY JANUARY 11, 1956
MINIX, Maurice M.
1896-1956
Prominent Man Passes Sunday of Heart Attack
Maurice M. Minix, Sr., 60, prominent businessman of this city, died Sunday morning at his home on Second Street following a heart attack. Born July 3, 1896 in Salyersville, Ky., he was the son of R. C. and Florence Arnett Minix.  He had made his home in Paintsville for the past twenty eight years.  Mr. Minix was a real estate broker by occupation and was Vice President of the First Federal Savings and Loan Assn.  He was a member of the Salyersville First Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Mary Webb Minix, to whom he was united in marriage in 1916. Mr. Minix’s pleasant and genial way won him a host of friends and he was respected and liked by all.  Paintsville has lost one of its most illustrious citizens. Surviving in addition to his wife are two sons, Maurice M. Minix, Jr. city, and Billy Wendell Minix, Pikeville, Ky.  One daughter, Mary Elizabeth, preceded him in death.  One brother, Herman L. Minix, city, and one sister, Mrs. Carol May, Prestonsburg, also survive. Active pallbearers were Marcus Mann, Ben Mann, Howard Mann, Bill Allen, James Patrick, Duff Arnett, Marvin VanHoose, and Jimmy Webb. Honorary pallbearers were H. H. Wheeler, W. Howes Meade, Mack Ward, Dr. James Archer, G. P. Salyer, Walter Meek, W. B. Bailey, Ben Vaughan, D. H. Dorton, W. H. Cox, Byrd Cox, Ernest Meek, Conrad Kirk, George Branham, Garland Rice, Russell Hager, Robert Montgomery, DeWitt Stafford, Douglas Turner, Dr. Paul B. Hall, Melvin Wheeler, Herman Wheeler, Sherman Wheeler, James Meek, Leonard Short, Grant Wheatley, D. W. Wheeler, D. E. Wheeler, C. R. Cooper, Ralph Preston, D. B. Howard, Wes A. Johnson, J. H. Pelphrey, Howard Frail, Oran C. Teater, M. O. Wheeler, Fred Howes, Al Cameron, John Leonard Spears. Services were conducted Tuesday afternoon at the First Methodist Church with the Rev. Wm. E. Pettus officiating.  Burial was made in the Blue Grass Cemetery at Salyersville, Ky., under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 1-1956
MUSIC, Timothy J.
1956
SERVICES SATURDAY FOR TIMOTHY J. MUSIC
Timothy J. Music 11 month old son of Mrs. Betsy Bayes Music of this city and the late S/Sgt. Thomas J. Music, died in a local hospital Thursday night, January 26 1956, following an illness of a few days. Surviving besides the mother are two brothers, Tony and Art, at home, the maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Prentice Bayes, city; and the paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John D. Music, East Point. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the Paintsville United Baptist Church with F.F. Rigsby, C.C. Sparks and Lonza Reed as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Music Cemetery at East Point under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home.. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 2-1-1956
STEPP, Esther M.
1923-1956
Local Resident Passes Sunday
Services Held Tuesday For Mrs. Esther Stepp Mrs. Esther M. Stepp, 32, a resident of  Paintsville, died Sunday morning in a local hospital following an illness of two months. The daughter of Jane Ramey Stepp of this city and the late Robert Stepp, she was born November 12, 1923 in Pike County.  She was a member of the Pentecostal Church of Christ. Surviving besides her mother are two sons, Jesse Oscar and Densil Ray, both at home and three daughters, Lana Belle, Pearl Jewell and Linda Jane, all at home. Other survivors include three brothers, Estil Stepp, Grove City, Ohio, and Robert and Ballard Stepp of this city. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the Pentecostal Church of Christ with Harry Salyer as the officiating minister.  Burial was made in the family cemetery at White House under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday January 4, 1956
WARD, Shade
1877-1956
Shade Ward, 77, Retired Farmer, Dies Saturday Shade Ward, 77, a retired farmer of Meally, Ky., died Saturday morning, January 14, at his home following an illness of a month. The son of the late Milt and Mary Jane Ward, he was born October 2, 1877, in Johnson County. He had been a resident of Meally for 15 years. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lula Hall Ward. Surviving are one son, John Henry Ward, City, one daughter, Mrs. Margie Helton, Terre Haute, Indiana, three brothers, Walter Ward and G. W. Ward, both of Meally, and Milton Ward, Ohio, and two sisters, Mrs. Clara Castle, Boons Camp and Mrs. Sarah Baldridge, Williamsport. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at the Boons Camp Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. Scott Castle and the Rev. James Lyons officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Boons Camp, under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 1-18-1956
WEBB, Proctor
1882-1956
Proctor Webb, 73, retired farmer of Van Lear, died Tuesday morning, January 17 1956, in a local hospital. He had been ill for the past five months. One of the best known and respected citizens of Johnson County, he possessed a jovial disposition and a deep loyalty for his friends and loved ones. He was a magistrate of the county from 1928 to 1932, and had served in recent years as a member of the Board of Supervisiors from Magisterial District 2. He was an active member of the Church of Christ for many years. Born on February 11 1882, he was a son of the late William J. and Jane Honeycutt Webb; and was a member of a large family of this community. In his early manhood, he was married to  Miss. Clarinda Hall, daughter of the late David B. and Arminta Hall. Surviving besides his wife, are four sons, John C. Webb, Waverly, Ohio; William Charles Webb, Peebles, Ohio; James Proctor Webb, Van Lear; David Lee Webb, Cincinnati, Ohio; four daughters, Mrs. Alka Mae Gibson, Mrs. Minnie Moffitt, and Mrs. Lucille Helton, all of Cincinnati, Ohio; and Mrs. Ruth Jasper of Van Lear. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren, three great grandchildren and the following brothers and sisters; Prof. William Webb,  Greenup, Ky.; Melvin Webb, Paintsville; Mrs Zora Phelps, California; Mrs. Addie Elliott, Elk City, Okla.; Mrs. Rosella Davis, Van Lear; and Mrs. Laura Phelps, Elk City, Okla. One daughter, Mrs Gussie Snapp, died on July 29 1955. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 19, at the Church of Christ at West Van Lear by the Reverend Julian Hunt of Lexington, Ky., and Reverend Joe Zavadsky of Piantsville. Burial was made in the Club House Cemetery at Vam Lear under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Among those attending the funeral and living out of town were; Mrs. Helen Venters and Elizabeth Mosgreve of Pikeville, Ky.; Laura Sargent of Allen, Ky.; Mr. and Mrs. G.B. Hughes, and Mr. and Mrs. Joe Travis and son of Glasgow, Ky.; Supt. C.V. Snapp and Drexell Webb of Jenkins; Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Honaker and daughter of Charleston, W. Va.; and many others from surrounding comunities. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 1-11-1956


FEBRUARY - 1956

ALLEY, Juda Esta (Cox)
1901-1956
Former Resident Passes Friday At Ashland
Mrs. Juda Esta Alley, 54, former resident of this county died at her home in Ashland Friday following an illness of 18 months. She was born in Johnson County November 12, 1901, and moved to Ashland 25 years ago from Flat Gap.  She was the daughter of Mose and Rose Wheeler Cox and was a member of the United Baptist Church. Funeral services were conducted Sunday at the Oak Springs United Baptist Church of Ashland with burial in the Ashland Cemetery. Survivors include the husband, John E. alley, and her mother, Mrs. Rose Wheeler Coffee two stepsons, Ben Alley, Oak Springs, and George Alley of Westwood: four step daughters, Mrs. Martha Skinner, Columbus, Ohio, Mrs. James Arthur, Mrs. William Kelley and Mrs. James Kelley, all of Ashland, one brother, Willie Cox, Ashland, two half brothers, Jasper Coffee, Springfield, Ohio and Sam Cox, Ashland; and two half sisters, Mrs. Cloys Potts Ashland and Mrs. Elias Rouche of Prebles, Ohio Paintsville Herald Wednesday 2-15-1956
AUXIER, Millard
1874-1956
Millard Auxier Dies In Nebraska
Native of County Was Veteran of Spanish-American War
Relatives here were notified last week of the death of Millard Mayo Auxier, 81, on February 23 at the Veteran’s Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska. While in Florida to spend the winter, Mr. Auxier suffered a cerebral hemorrhage early in February, and was removed to Veteran’s Hospital at Lake City.  On February 23, he was transferred to the Veteran’s Hospital at Lincoln, Nebraska. Mr. Auxier was the son of the late George Auxier and Ann Prater Auxier of Johnson County.  He was born at East Point Nov. 9, 1874.  In 1881, the family moved to the Fishtrap area where he lived until he went to Nebraska in 1893. He lived in Richardson County, Nebraska, for 60 years, except for about five years spent in California, from 1943 to 1948. On March 2, 1901, he was married near Paintsville, to Miss Theresa Stapleton, who died February 10, 1948 at Riverside, California.  After her death, he spent his time with his children in California, Nebraska, and with relatives in Johnson County. Mr. Auxier was a member of the Falls City B. P. O. E. No. 963, the Veterans of Foreign Wars post, and the American Legion.  He served in the Spanish-American War from June 20, 1898 to August 23, 1899, with Company M of the Nebraska Volunteer Infantry.  He also served later, for a few months in the Philippine Insurrection. Mr. Auxier is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Fred Straus, Falls City, Neb.; Mrs. Dow Sailors, Barada, Neb., four sons, Lawton Auxier, Barada, Custer Auxier and Gordon Auxier, both of Los Angeles; Marvin Auxier, Linten, Calif; a sister, Mrs. Martha Vaughan, Paintsville.  There are 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 3-7-1956
AUXIER, William H.
1865-1956
Former Resident of East Point Dies Wednesday
William H. Auxier, 90, of Louisa, a retired farmer and lumber dealer, died Wednesday, February 22, in a Louisa hospital after an illness of six weeks. Mr. Auxier was born at East Point, Ky., August 4, 1865, a son of the late Samuel and Jane Wellman Auxier.  He had been a member of the Methodist church for 50 years.  Before moving to Lawrence County eight years ago, Mr. Auxier had lived in Johnson and Lewis Counties.  His wife, Mrs. Eliza Burgess Miller Auxier, died in 1937. Survivors include one son, C. R. Auxier, Newport, Ky., one sister, Mrs. Ladra Belle Ingram, Connersville, Ind., four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 2-29-1956
BALDRIDGE, Sarah (Webb)
1881-1956
SARAH BALDRIDGE DIES WEDNESDAY
Mrs. Sarah Baldridge, 74, wife of H.J. Baldridge of East Point died Wednesday, February 1 1956, at her home on Little Paint in Floyd County, following an illness of two years. Born March.01 1881, in Johnson County, she was the daughter of the late Jacob and Adeline Honeycutt Webb. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church for over a half century. Surviving besides her husband are three sons, Herbert Baldridge, West Prestonsburg; Heber Baldridge, Cliff; and Kermit Baldridge, Prestonsburg; two daughters, Mrs. Jesse Brown Auxier, Van Lear; Mrs. Gladen Elkins, East Point; four sisters, Mrs. J. S. Auxier, East Point; Mrs. John D. Music, East Point; Mrs. John Messer, West Van Lear; and Mrs. Rennie Pack, Van Lear; and one brother, McKinley Webb, East Point. Funersl services were conducted at the home Friday afternoon with Grover Fannin and John D. Music as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of Carter and Callahan Funeral Home of Prestonsburg. PAINTSVILLE HERALD FEB.08 1956
BLANTON, John F. "Sonny"
1890-1956
RITES THURSDAY FOR J.F. BLANTON
Funeral services will be held at the home at Volga Thursday for John F. "Sonny" Blanton, 65, who died suddenly at his home. A lifelong resident of Volga, he had been a mail carrier in the county for a number of years. The son of S.L. and Sarah McKenzie Blanton, he was born March 5, 1890. He is survived by his wife, Lillie Rice Blanton, Win, three daughters, Mrs. Christine Stacy and Mrs. Ivel McKenzie, both of Columbus, Ohio, and Mrs. Neva Lee Lemaster, Ashland. Other survivors include three brothers, George and Kendrick Blanton, both of Volga and Albert Blanton of Ironton, O., and four sisters, Mrs. Virgil Williams, Red Bush, Mrs. Bertha Trimble, Volga, Mrs. Della Lemaster, Portsmouth, Ohio and Mrs. Verna Butler. Burial will be made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. NOTE: Funeral date figured and entered in this obituary from date of publication. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY FEB. 8, 1956
CASTLE, Henderson
1875-1956
Passes Tuesday Brief Illness Fatal To Nippa Resident;
Services Held Friday Henderson Castle, 80, lifelong resident of Nippa died at his home  Tuesday night, February 28, following a brief illness.   The son of the late Marion and Clara Price Castle, he was born August  25, 1875.  He was a member of the United Baptist Church and a miner and  farmer by occupation.   He is survived by his wife, Laura Stapleton Castle, 3 sons, Leslie  Castle, Lowmansville, Edgar Castle, Nippa, and Logan Castle, Stambaugh;  two daughters, Mrs. Mae Meeks, Boons Camp, and Mrs. Ollie Dheel,  Tucoma, Va.; three brothers, Marion Castle, Van Lear, John Castle,  Williamson, W. Va., and Irvin Castle, Nolan, W. Va., and one sister,  Mrs. Clara Stapleton, Goody, Ky.   Funeral services were held Friday, March 2, at the Locust Grove  United Baptist Church with Merida Wiley, F. F. Rigsby and Leonard  Walters as officiating ministers.  Burial was made in the family  cemetery at Lowmansville under the direction of the Jones and Preston  Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday March 7, 1956
CASTLE, Jerome
1882-1956
JEROME CASTLE DIES SATURDAY
Funeral services were held Mondat morning at the Thealk Freewill Baptist Church for Jermone Castle, 73, Nippa, who died Saturday Feb.04 1956, at a local hospital. A member of the Enterprise Baptist Church for a number of years, he was a farmer by occupation. Born Apr.16 1882 in Johnson County, he was the son of the late Lafe and Mary Daniel Castle. He was preceded in death January 18 1955, by his wife, Mary E. Brooks Castle. Surviving are one son, Herbert Castle, Paintsville; one grandson, Bruce Castle, Cleveland, Ohio; one brother, Rev. Scott Castle. city; and three sisters, Mrs. Marie Penley, and Mrs. Callie Dale, both of Thealka; and Mrs. Vina Clay, city. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD FEB.08 1956
GOBLE, Clarinda (Music)
1859-1956
AUXIER WOMAN PASSES THURSDAY
Services Held Sunday For Mrs. Clarinda Goble
Mrs. Clarinda Goble, 97, a resident of Auxier for 46 years died Thursday morning Feb.16 1956 at the home of her son, Jerry Goble, also of Auxier, following an illness of two years. The daughter of the late John and Minerva Baldridge Music, she was born in Johnson County February 2 1859. She had been a devout member of the Church of Christ since 1875. She was preceded in death in 1940 by her husband, George Goble. Surviving are seven sons, Jerry and John Goble, Auxier; David Goble, Prestonsburg; Sherd Goble, Harold; George Goble Jr., Auxier; O.B. Goble, Jamestown, Ohio; and Martin Goble, Hillsboro, Ohio. Also surviving are one sister, Mrs. Lavada Auxier, East Point; one brother, John Wesley Music, East Point, and 31 grandchildren. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the home of her son, Jerry, at Auxier, with the Reverend S.C. Honeycutt officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Auxier under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD FEB.22 1956
HANNAH, Margaret (Blair)
1908-1956
Former Resident Of Collista Dies At Carey, Ohio
Rites Held At Van Lear For Mrs. Fred Hannah
Mrs. Margaret Blair Hannah, 47, Carey, Ohio, formerly of Collista, died Tuesday morning in a Carey, OH hospital following an illness of four days. Born February 25, 1908, in Johnson County, she was the daughter of Leva and Jane Conley Blair. She had been a resident of Carey for two years. Surviving are her husband, Fred Hannah, Carey, OH; nine daughters, Mrs. Ellaween Witten, and Mrs. Erma Lee Tidwell, both of Detroit, MI, Mrs. Betty Jane Hatfield, Ann Arbor, MI, Mrs. Nora Lee Mollett, Phyllis Ann, Francis, Freda Sue, Mary and Juanita Hannah all of Carey, Ohio. Other survivors include four brothers Asa Blair and Warnie Blair, both of Van Lear. Herbert Blair, Louisa, and Irvin Blair, Oil Springs; and five sisters, Mrs. Ellen Pennington, Oil Springs, Mrs. Lula Blanton, Paintsville, Mrs. Clara Castle and Mrs. Golda Vinson, both of Wayland, and Mrs. Abbie Borders, Louisa. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the Van Lear Freewill Baptist Church with Adron Davis officiating. Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Middle Fork, KY., under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY FEB 22, 1956
PRESTON, Norman T. "Dick"
1893-1956
POLICE JUDGE AT VAN LEAR DIES MONDAY
Services Held Today For N. T. Preston
N.T. (Dick) Preston, 63, police judge of Van Lear succumbed Monday at a local hospital following an illness of six weeks. The son of Mrs. Julia Dollarhide Preston and the late Shade Preston, he was born January 3 1893, in Johnson County. He had been a resident of Van Lear for seven years. A member of the Freewill Baptist Church and the F and A.M. Lodge at Van Lear, he was a carpenter by occupation. Surviving besides his mother are one son, Norman T. Preston Jr., Wallen, Ky., two sisters, Mrs. Nola Brennan, Huntington, W. Va.; and Mrs. Fred Caudill, Van Lear; and one half-sister, Mrs. Reable Bailey, Fallen, Nevada. Funeral services were conducted at 1:00 p.m. today at the Van Lear Freewill Baptist Church, with the Rev. Edgar Hewlett officiating. Burial was made in the Wells Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINSTVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY FEB.29 1956
RATLIFF, George
1875-1956
George Ratliff Dies Tuesday Of Heart Attack
Servives Held Friday For Leander Resident
George Ratliff, 80, lifelong resident of Leander, died Tuesday afternoon,  February 28, in the McDonald Hospital, Warsaw, Indiana, following a heart attack suffered several days earlier. His wife, Rachel Arms Ratliff, preceded him in death a week earlier. The son of the late Riley and Judy Dale Ratliff, he was born June 8, 1875. he was a retired farmer and a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Surviving are four sons, Elliot Ratliff, Claypool, Indiana, Elmer and Grace Ratliff, both of Leander, and Irvin Ratliff, Warsaw, Indiana; four daughters, Doshia Blair, Denver, Dora May and Cora Smith, both of Warsaw, Indiana, and Alka Bayes, Luckey, Ohio. Also surviving are four  brothers, Charles ratliff,  Detroit, Michigan,  Albert Ratliff, Greenwhich, Ohio,  Warren Ratliff, Wheelersburg, Wheelersburg, Ohio,  and Clarence ratliff, Potsmouth, Ohio. Funeral Services were held at the Leander school Friday afternoon with Scott Castle and Aaron Davies as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Ratliff cemetery at Middlefork, Ky., under the direction Paintsville Funeral here. Paintsville Herald Mar.7 1956
RATLIFF, James Dean
1956-1956
Services Held Thursday For Ratliff Infant
James Dean Ratliff, 11-day-old son of Hassel and Gladyl Crace Ratliff  of Barnetts Creek, died at his home Wednesday morning, February 15. Surviving besides the parents are three brothers. Funeral services were held at the home Thursday afternoon with  Thurman Blair as officiating minister.  Burial was made in the family  cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald  Wednesday February 22, 1956
RATLIFF, Rachel (Arms)
1875-1956
Leander Woman Passes Tuesday Services February 23 For Mrs. George Ratliff
Mrs. Rachel Arms Ratliff, 80, wife of George Ratliff of Leander, died at her home, Tuesday morning February 21 1956, following an illness of two weeks. The daughter of the lates William and Lydia Blair Arms, she was born November 16 1875, in Johnson County. She was a member of the Penecostal Church of Christ. Surviving besides her husband are four sons, Elliott and Ervin Ratliff, both of Warsaw, Indiana; and Elmer and George Ratliff, both of Leander; four daughters, Doshia Bliar, Denver; Dora May and Cora Smith, both of Warsaw, Indiana; and Alka Bayes, Luckey, Ohio; and three brothers, Sanford and Daniel Arms, both of Paintsville; and Elbert Arms, of Riceville. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon, February 23, at the Leander school with John Collins and Mason Fitchpatrick as officiating ministers. Music was by the Tom's Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the family cemetery under direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD FEB.29 1956
SALYERS, Jerry
1879-1956
BOYD MAN DIES AFTER LONG ILLNESS
SERVICES HELD TODAY FOR FORMER RESIDENT
Jerry Salyers, 77, Ashland, a retired employee of Armco Steel Corportation., died Sunday morning in King’s Daughters Hospital  after an extended illness. Born February 10, 1879, in Johnson Co., he was the son of the late Lewis and Nancy Sloan Salyers.  He retired in 1944 and was a member of the First Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Susie Compton Salyers; four sons, Edward Salyers, Wheelwright Elzie Salyers, Wharton, WV., Herschel Salyers, South Point, Ohio and Ernest E. Salyers, of U.S. Air Force, Germany; four daughters, Mrs. Albert Short and Mrs. Clarence Bailey, both of Flatwoods, Mrs. W.E. Blevins of Russell and Mrs. Cecil George of Ashland and three step- children, all of Ashland, Funeral services were held this afternoon at the Westwood Enterprise Baptist Church. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 2-29-1956
STAFFORD, Leslie J.
1956
Funeral Services Held Thursday For L. Stafford
Funeral services were held at Catlettsburg Thursday for Leslie J. Stafford, 67, who died Tuesday after suffering a stroke the previous week. A former Catlettsburg City Councilman and a grocer in that city for 27 years, he was a native of Johnson County. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Florence Ratliff Stafford, four sons, William Arthur Stafford, Ashland; Charles E. Stafford, Muncie, Ind.; Paul R. Stafford, Catlettsburg, and George C. Stafford, Kenova, W. Va., a daughter, Mrs. Perry G. Curnette, Honolulu and a number of relatives in Johnson County. Paintsville Herald Wednesday February 29, 1956
STEPHENS, Henry
1878-1956
Brother Dies At Grayson Henry Stephens, 77, of Grayson Kentucky, brother of Mrs. Allie Gibson of Main Street, Paintsville died February 27, 1956, after an extended illness. He was a retired farmer. He was born in Carter County, May 24, 1878, a son of William and Mrs.. Julia Hall Stephens. Funeral services were held February 29, 1956 at the Stinson Church of Christ with the Rev. C. F. Thomas officiating Burial was made in the Burton Cemetery. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Mary Ellen Stephens, two aunts, Mrs. Nelllie Burton of Grayson and Mrs. Alene Tackett of Columbus, Ohio, five sons. Everett, Grayson, Herbert, Ashland, George W. of Long Beach, Calif., and Lowell of Jackson, Ohio, and Sgt. Homer F. Stephens of the U. S. Army; one sister, Mrs. Gibson and two brothers, Thomas of Columbus and Dennis of Grayson. Paintsville Herald Wednesday March 14, 1956
STEPHENS, Nancy Wheeler
1925-1956
HEART CONDITION FATAL TO COUNTY WOMAN;
SERVICES HELD TUESDAY
Mrs. Nancy Wheeler Stephens, 30, wife of Eugene Stephens of West Van Lear, died Sunday morning in the C. & O. Hospital in Huntington, W. Va., following an illness of a month.  Death was attributed to a heart condition. A member of one of Johnson County's most prominent families, she was the daughter of Hannibal F. Wheeler of this city, and the late Blanche Oppenheimer Wheeler.  She was born October 2, 1925, in this city, where she attended the local schools.  She had been a resident of West Van Lear for a year. Surviving besides her husband and father are three daughters, Patricia, Eugenia and Margaret Ann, all at home.  She was preceded in death January 5, 1956, by a son, Eugene Stephens, Jr. Also surviving are one sister, Mrs. Norma Jean Wilson, Danville, Ky., and three brothers, Charles V. Wheeler and H.F. Wheeler Jr., both of this city, and Harry Wheeler, Lexington. Funeral services were held at the First Christian Church Tuesday afternoon with the Reverend Joseph Zavadsky officiating.  Burial was in the Mayo Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Active pallbearers were Glen Siler, W.J. Carrol, Johnnie McDaniels, Charles O. Wheeler, Jr., Jimmy George Daniesl and L. Siler. Paintsville Herald Wednesday February 22, 1956
WEBB, Roe
1865-1956
Roe Webb, 90, lifelong resident of Van Lear, died Tuesday, afternoon Feb.28 1956, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Shade Ward, in Van Lear, following an illness of six weeks. Born April 17, 1865, the son of the late William and Isabelle Music Webb, he was a farmer and a member of the Church of Christ. He was preceded in death June 12 1945, by his wife. Surviving are five sons, John Webb, Boons Camp; Curtis and Calvin Webb, both of Van Lear; Ottis Webb, Wabash,  Ind.; and Ocal (Jake) Webb, Meally; five daughters, Mrs. Sara Hyden, Dayton, Ohio;  Mrs. Elsie Ward, Van Lear; Mrs. Angie Lynn, Wabash, Ind.; Mrs. Laura Belle Phelps, West Van Lear; and Mrs. Fannie Webb, Mallory, W.Va.; one sister, Mrs. Susan Baldridge, East Point. 52 grand children, 84 great-grandchildren  and one great-great- grandchild. Funeral services were held Friday morning, February 24, at the Upper Millers Creek School, with S.C. Honeycutt and J.H. Short as officiating minister. Burial was made in the Webb Cemetery at Van Lear under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD FEB.29 1956


MARCH - 1956

AUGSPURGER, Christian Halsey
1956
AUGSPURGER TOT DROWNS MARCH 7 IN LEVISA FORK
Christian Halsey Augspurger, 3 1/2 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Augspurger of Van Lear, was drowned Wednesday afternoon, March 7, 1956 in the Levisa Fork of the Big Sandy River, a few yards from his home. The Augspurger family moved here three weeks ago from Ohio, Mr. Augspurger is a contractor and mine supervisor. Surviving besides the parents is a sister, Pauline Annette. The body was taken from the Preston Funeral Home to the Webb Funeral Home, Hamilton, Ohio, where services were conducted Saturday, March 10, 1956. Paintsville Herald Wednesday March 14, 1956
AUXIER, Alvin Raymond
1956
Prominent Realtor Was Native of County
Alvin Raymond Auxier, 55, a native of Johnson County, died March 19,1957 of a heart attack in Glendale, California while testifying as a plaintiff in a civil suit over a commission in Glendale Municipal Court. A fire Department rescue squad worked over him for 35 minutes in the Court but was unable to revive him. Mr. Auxier was the son of the late Elijah and Lou Ford Auxier of East Point, and was the brother of Merlin Auxier of Mann, W.Va. and John B. Auxier, also of East Point. He was a member of a prominent pioneer family of Johnson County.  He attended the Sandy Valley Seminary here and Berea College where he excelled scholastically and was held in high esteem by his instructors and classmates. A resident of Glendale since 1931, Mr. Auxier taught English and journalism at Hoover High School for several years before entering the real estate business.   During World War II, he was an Air Force intelligence officer at Luke, Field, Arizona, where he held the rank of Captain. He was president of the Auxier Real Estate Company, and in 1953 was named Glendale’s Realtor of the year.  He was past president of the Board of Realtors of that city; past president of the Exchange Club of Glendale, and a member of the Verdugo Club, the Oakmont country Club, and the Gateway Kiwanis Club.  He was also a member of the Glendale Multiple Listing Assn., the California Real Estate Assn., and the National Association of Real Estate Boards, and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. Besides his two brothers, he  is survived by two sons, James F. Stationed with the U. S. Navy in Japan, and Timothy R. at home. Funeral services were held on March 26 in the Chapel of a Glendale mortuary by the Rev. Donald B. Ruthenberg of the First Methodist Church of that city.  Burial was made in Grand View Memorial Park. Attending the funeral services from this area were John B. Auxier of East Pint and Merlin Auxier and daughter, Janet of Mann, W.Va..Paintsville Herald Wed. 4-4-1956
BLEVINS, Mary E.
1877-1956
Services Sunday At Staffordsville For Mary Blevins
Funeral services were held at the United Baptist Church at Staffordsville Sunday for Mary E. Blevins, 78, who died at her home at Staffordsville Friday following an illness of two months. The daughter of the late John and Lucy Blevins, she was born June 23, 1877, at Staffordsville. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church for a number of years. Surviving is one brother, Elzie Blevins, of Staffordsville. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 3-7-1956
BURKE, David Martin
1956-1956
Graveside Rites Held For Burke Infant
David Martin Burke, one-day-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Burke, died at his home at Kerz Saturday morning. Surviving besides the parents are three sisters and one brother. Graveside rites were held Saturday afternoon at the family cemetery at Sitka. Burial was under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 3-20-1956
CASTLE, William David
1882-1956
W.D. Castle, 74, Dies Wednesday Rites Held Saturday For Martin Co. Man
William David Castle, 74, lifelong resident of Martin County, died Wednesday, March 14, 1956 in a Louisa hospital following an illness of several years. The son of the late Richard and Hester Fitzpatrick Castle, he was born January 1, 1882 at Inez. He had been a resident of Calf Creek for over 50 years. A member of the United Methodist Church, he was an employee of the N & W Railroad until his retirement several years ago. Surviving are his wife, Mary F. Castle, two sons Richard Castle, Warfield, KY and Loben Tee Castle, Calf Creek; five daughters Mrs. Hester Hall, Williamson, W. VA; Mrs. Fallan New, Fort Gay, W. Va. Mrs. Blanche Stewart, Columbus, O.; Mrs. Pauline Conn, Crum, W. Va. and Mrs. Jacqueline Horn, Columbus, Ohio; one brother, Joshua Castle, Inez and one sister, Mrs. Minnie Pack, Job. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon, March 17, 1956 at the home with Ballard Copley and Homer Mills as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Pinty Cemetery under the direction of the Richmond Callahan Funeral Home of Inez. Paintsville Herald Wednesday March 20, 1956
CHILDERS, Charles Ray
1935-1956
Charles Ray Childers, 20, Dayton, Ohio, formerly of White House, Ky., a companion from Dayton and a teenage hitchhiker were fatally injured Sunday morning when a auto crashed sideways into a utility pole about four miles north of Dayton. Pronounced dead on arrival at Miami Valley hospital were Childers and Charles William Screws, 30, Dayton, Grover Newman Elliott, 17, Parrish Alabama, died at 10:00 a.m. Sunday at the hospital. The state highway patrol said a witness to the mishap told officers she was traveling south when she saw an auto coming in the opposite direction at a high rate of speed. She said the car skidded from the wet road and crashed into the pole.  The woman did not stop because she had children in her auto. Patrolmen said the impact pushed the pole four feet in the ground and snapped it about three feet above the top of the car.  They said all three persons were found in the auto. Childers, who was pinned behind the wheel, is believed to have been driving.  Patrolmen said two wreckers were needed to pull the car apart to get the driver out. Childers, son of John and Elise Bolden Childers, was born September 13, 1935. He had been a resident of Dayton for the past three years where he was employed by the Sunshine Biscuit Company. Surviving besides his parents are four brothers, Arthur Childers, Dawson Springss, Ky., Walter Clyde and Paul Childers, all of Dayton, Ohio, and five sisters, Pearl, Annette and Belva Jo Childers, all of White House, Mrs. Evelyn Beckett, Chapville, W. Va., and Mrs. Lillian Meek, Dayton, Ohio. Funeral services were conducted today at the White House church with the Rev. Marvin Wells of Garrett, Ky., officiating. Burial was made in the Osborne Cemetery at White House under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 3-20-1956
COCHRAN, Louise (Meade)
1868-1956
County Woman Dies Wednesday Services Held Friday For Mrs. Jeff Cochran
Mrs. Louise Meade Cochran, 88, wife of Jeff Cochran of Win, Ky., died Wednesday morning, March 7, at her home.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church. The daughter of the late Samuel and Evaline Osborne Meade, she was born January 9, 1868, in Johnson County. Surviving, besides the husband are three sons, Thurman Cochran, Oil Springs, and Charles and Wince Cochran, both of Win; four daughters, Mrs. Rhoda Stapleton, Win, Ky., Mrs. Mark Bayes, and Mrs. Prentice Bayes, both of Oil Springs, and Mrs. Charles Williams, Dayton, Ky. Funeral services were held Friday morning at the home with Thurman Ferguson, Shade Estep and Lonza Reed as officiating ministers.  Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville herald Wednesday 3-20-1956
COLLINS, Ellen (Lemaster)
1867-1956
Mrs. Ellen Collins, 88, died March 5, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Sherman Patrick, Ashland, following an illness of two months. Born October 13, 1867 in Magoffin County, She was the daughter of the late Eli and Lyda Tackett Lemaster. Prior to moving to Ashland 13 years ago she was a member of the Oil Springs Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Manford Collins, who died in 1943. Surviving are five daughters, Mrs. Fred Branham, Springfield, Mrs. Sherman patrick, Mrs. Linzie Hayes and Mrs. Thomas D. Patton all of Ashland, and Mrs. R.P. Cantall, Sitka; two sisters, Mrs Ballard Conley, Riceville, and Mrs. William C. Hanson, Cincinnati, Ohio; 35 grandchildren, 65 great grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. Funeral services were held at Oil Springs Thursday afternoon, March 8, with the Rev. L.B. Hicks and the Rev. Billy Ball of Ashland Officiating. Burial was in the Collins Cemetery at Oil Springs. The Paintsville Herald March 20, 1956
COLVIN, Jefferson
1860-1956
Former Resident Found Dead At Boyd Home
Services Held Friday For Jeff B. Colvin, 96
Jefferson B. Colvin, 96, lovingly known to thousands of Boyd County citizens as “Uncle Jeff” was found dead Tuesday, March 27, at his home in Raceland, KY. Death was attributed to a heart attack and burns which he received after he had fallen from his bed and his body lodged against a gas stove. He received burns of a critical nature. “Uncle Jeff” was born April 20, 1860, in Johnson County and was the son of the late John and Mary Davis Colvin. For many years prior to his retirement, he was one of Eastern Kentucky’s best known merchants and stock dealers. His wife preceded him in death several years ago. He is survived by three sons, Harry, Raceland, Charles, Columbus, OH, and Walter of IN, fifteen grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and one great great -grandchild. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at Raceland. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY APRIL 4, 1956
DANIEL, Floyd
1890-1956
Passes Monday At Lowmansville
Floyd Daniel, 65 well known miner and farmer of this county, died at his home at Lowmansville, Monday following an illness of two years. Born May 18 1890, at Nippa, he was the son of Augustus and Mariah Music Daniel. He had been a member of the united Baptist Church for over forty years. He was first married to Alta Fairchild, and to this union were born eight children. She preceded him in death in 1936. In 1939 he married Bessie Castle, who survives. Surviving besides his wife are five sons, Niles Daniel, Gainesville, Texas; Denver Daniel, David, Ky.; Glenvil Daniel, Lake Charles, Louisiana; Floyd Daniel Jr., Rupert, W. Va.; and Augustus Daniel, Lowmansville; and three daughters, Mrs. Ann Renfro, Frankfort; Mrs. Ollie Mae Puckett, Thealka; and Mrs. Beatrice Perkins, Columbus, Ohio. Also surviving are one brother, John Daniel, Nangatuck, W. Va.; and two sisters, Mrs. Nerva VanHoose, Wichita, Kansas; and Mrs. Nollie Sadler, Logan, W. Va.; and 13 grandchildren. Funeral services were held Thursday morning at the Lowmansville United Baptist Church, with Leonard Walters, Charley Hackey and Mitchell Grim as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Lowmansville under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD MAR.28 1956
DANIELS, Laura Jean (Price)
1914-1956
LAURA DANIELS, MOTHER OF FIVE, PASSES THURSDAY SERVICES HELD SATURDAY
FOR RESIDENT OF RIVER
Mrs. Laura Jean Daniels, 41, wife of John W. Daniels of River, died suddenly of a hemorrhage at her home at 6:30 a.m., Thursday, March 8. The daughter of Silver and Alice Ratliff Price of River, she was born in that community January 6, 1914.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving besides her husband and parents are an infant son and four other children; John Lowell, Jay Miller, Ora Alice and Joan Carrol, all at home.  Also surviving are the following brothers and sisters, Vonita Price, Dayton, Ohio, Mrs. Bobby Stewart, Jane Va., Mrs. Ronnie Steel, Portsmouth, Ohio, Jack and Clebart Price, both of River; Cecil, Millard and Silver Price, Jr. all of Jane, Va. Funeral services were conducted at River United Baptist Church at 10:30a.m., Saturday, March 10, with Revs. Germ Walter’s, Grover Fannin, and Cully Sparks as officiating ministers. Burial was in the Daniels Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAR.14, 1956
HENSLEY, Aulda B.
1923-1956
AULDA B. HENSLEY DIES IN OHIO
Rites Held At Lick Fork For Former Resident
Aulda B. Hensley, 32, Died Friday Morning At His Home In Springfield, Ohio, After An Illness Of Six Years. The Son Of Forrest And Mary E. Adams Hensley, He Was Born October 10, 1923, On The Lick Fork Of Jennys Creek. A Member Of The Freewill Baptist Church, He Had Resided In Springfield For The Past Six Years. Surviving Are Four Brothers, Hobert, Luster And George Hensley, All Of Hurley, Virginia, And Russell Hensley, Springfield, O.; And Three Sisters, Virginia Fairchild And Tennessee Bickley, Both Of Springfield, Ohio, And Margaret May Colgrove, Nolan, W. Va. Funeral Services Were Held Sunday Afternoon At The Home Of Hershell Pratt With Claude Preston And Adrion Davis As Officiating Ministers.  Music Was By The Toms Creek Quartet. Burial Was Made In The Family Cemetery In Lick Fork Under The Direction Of The Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday March 28, 1956
HENSLEY, Henrietta (Stafford)
1890-1956
Milo Resident Dies Suddenly Of Heart Attack
Services Monday For Mrs. Henrietta Hensley
Mrs. Henrietta Stafford Hensley, 66, wife of Morgan Hensley of Milo, died in a Paintsville Hospital Saturday, March 10, at 11:00 a.m., the victim of a sudden heart attack.  She was the sister of Mrs. Elmer Castle of this city. Born at Henrietta, January 1, 1890, the daughter of Richard and Elizabeth Blevins Stafford, she had resided at Milo for the past sixty years.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Survivors include besides her husband and sister, three daughters: Mrs. Elizabeth Dalton and Mrs. Ida May Fannin, both of Milo and Mrs. Clementine Kirk, Add, Ky.  Another sister, Mrs. John Goble, Inez, and a brother, John Stafford, Milo, also survive. Funeral services were conducted Monday at 2:00 p.m., from the home with Clifford Boothe and Shelby Boothe as officiating ministers. Burial was in the Stafford Cemetery at Milo under the direction of the Richmond-Callaham Funeral Home of Inez. Paintsville Herald Wednesday March 14, 1956
ISON, Stella (Sherman)
1868-1956
Stella Ison, 87,  Succumbs Friday In Local Hospital
Services at Moon For Aged Resident
Mrs. Stella Sherman Ison, 87, aged resident of Moon, KY, died in a local hospital Friday, March 9, at 5:30 p.m., following an illness of fourteen days. The daughter of the late Nathe and Fannie Price Sherman, she was born at Relief, KY, June 20, 1868. She had been a resident of Moon for the past sixty years and was member of the Regular Baptist Church. Her husband, D.M. Ison preceded her in death March 12, 1933. She is survived by seven daughters, Mrs. Grace Skaggs, Moon, Mrs. Gladys Burton, Blaine, Mrs. Hazel Ferguson, Staffordsville; Mrs. Evelyn Fyffe, Keaton, Mrs. Fannie Mae Patton, New Boston, OH; Mrs. Lou Ethel Brown, Cleveland, OH. Surviving also are two brothers, John and Paris Sherman both of Portsmouth, OH, nineteen grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted at 11:00 Sunday at the New Salem Church at Moon by Add Ferguson and Jesse Smith. Burial was in the family cemetery at Moon under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MARCH 14, 1956
MCKENZIE, Daisy (Love)
1880-1956
Wilbur Woman Dies Monday At Prestonsburg
Mrs. Daisy Love McKenzie, 76, wife of Floyd McKenzie of Wilbur, Ky., died Monday afternoon in a Prestonsburg Hospital following an illness of six months. She was born in Arkansas in 1880, the daughter of the late Andy and Millie Love.  She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Surviving besides the husband are one son, Oakie McKenzie, Wilbur, Ky., one sister, Mrs. Doshia Blevins, Ashland, and three grandsons. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at the Cannon's Chapel Methodist Church with the Rev. Tivis Hamilton officiating.  Burial was made in the family cemetery at Volga under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday March 28, 1956
MEEK, Ida (McKenzie)
1882-1956
Funeral services for Mrs. Ida Meek were held Monday at the Buffalo United  Baptist Church. Elders Leonard Walters, Tom Sammons and Elzie Banks were the  officiating ministers. Mrs. Meek succumbed Friday (Mar.23 1956) at her home in New Boston,  Ohio after an illness of a year. A resident of Ohio for over twenty years,  she was born in this county June 5, 1882, the daughter of Andy and Millie  Coburn McKenzie. She is survived by her husband, Martin Meek, one son Dannie  Meek, Washington, D. C. One daughter, Mrs. Michael Grant, Burns, Tennessee,  four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Other survivors include one  brother, Alphonzo McKenzie, New Boston, Ohio and three sisters, Mrs. Ollie  Pickerel and Mrs. Naomi Simpkins, both of New Boston, and Mrs. Flora Blevins,  city. Burial was made in the Town Cemetery under the direction of the Preston  Funeral Home. NOTE: Deathdate figured and entered into this obituray from publication date. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAR.28 1956
PELPHREY, Paris
1882-1956
PARIS PELPHREY, 73 FORMER RESIDENT DIES SATURDAY
Paris Pelphrey, 73, Ashland, former resident of this county, died Saturday afternoon Mar.24 1956, at a Lexington, Ky, hospital. He was born December 27 1882, in this county, a son of the late Samuel H. and Mary Spradlin Pelphrey. He was a member of the Oak Springs United Baptist Church of Ashland. He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Edward Barbee, Ashland; and Mrs. John J. Ginter, Detroit, Michigan; and two sons, Paris A. Pelphrey, English, W. Va.; and Walter Pelphrey, Ashland. Other survivors include two sisters, Mrs. Irvin Spradlin, city, and Mrs. Frankie Conley, Johnson City, Tennessee; and four brothers, J.H. Pelphrey and Labe Pelphrey, both of this city; Don Pelphrey, Denver; and Ray Pelphrey, Pikeville. His wife, Mrs. Elsie Pelphrey preceded him in death. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Oaks Springs United Baptist Church, with Elders Everett Slone and Prater Blair officiating. Burial was made in the Rose Hill Burial Park, Ashland. NOTE: Birthdate was calulated by the date of the paper and entered in this obit. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAR.28 1956
PICKLESIMER, John M.
1883-1956
Services Sunday For Resident Of Meally J. M. Picklesimer
Dies of Heart Attack
J. M. Picklesimer, 72, died suddenly at his home at Meally at 3:20 p.m., Friday, March 9, of a heart attack.  He had suffered from a heart condition for the past five years, and the fatal seizure occurred in the yard at his home as he leaned over to pick up a bucket of coal. The son of Dr. F. M. and Virginia Sublett Picklesimer, he was born in this city June 18, 1883. He had resided at Meally for the past twenty-eight years and was a member of the Church of Christ, which he joined eighteen years ago.  Before his retirement he worked as a carpenter and in the mines.  He was a member of U.M.W.A. He was first married to the former Miss Tisha Sturgill, who preceded him in death July 1926. Two daughters, Mrs. Fred Borders, Cattletsburg, and Mrs. Wilbur Borders, Denver, Colo., survived. Surviving besides his daughters are his widow, Mrs. Shug Hall Picklesimer, two brothers, Kendrick Picklesimer, Indiana; H. D. Picklesimer, Volga; one half brother, R. R Picklesimer, Los Angeles, Calif. And one grandson. Funeral services were conducted Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at the Meally Church of Christ with J. H. Short officiating.  Burial was in the Pelphrey Cemetery at Volga under the directions of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald  Wednesday 3/14/1956 
PRESTON, Elizabeth (Jaynes)
1879-1956
Mrs. Elizabeth (Wheeler) Preston, 76, well known resident of this city, died Tuesday morning at her home on Main Street following an illness of several months. The daughter of the late Harrison H. and Paulina Ellington Jaynes, she was born July 20 1879, in Johnson County. She was married February 3 1893, to C.W. Wheeler, a well known merchant of this city, who preceded her in death in 1931. In later years she married Az Preston who died in June, 1946. A son, Johnny Wheeler, also preceded her in death. A member of the United Baptist Church for a number of years, she devoted her life to her church and family. She was vice president of the Sandy Valley Grocery Company which was founded by Mr. Wheeler. She is survived by five sons, Melvin and Sherman, both of Lexington; Harrison, Dola, and Dona Wheeler, all of Ashland; three daughters, Mrs. Lula Kennard, Ashland; Mrs. P.W. Ramsey, Whitesburg; and Mrs. Maurice Minix Jr. City. Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. G.C. Franklin, Flat Fork, Ky.; and Mrs. Floyd Sellards, Beaver, Ohio; two brothers, Joe Jaynes, Wakefield, Ohio; and Andy Jaynes, Buena Vista, O.; 34 grandchildren and 33 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 1:30 at the United Baptist Church of this city with W.L. Murray, F. F. Rigsby, and O.I Williams officiating. Burial will be in the Mayo Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD MAR.20 1956
RAMSEY, James
1956
James Ramsey Dies In Ashland Sunday
James Ramsey, husband of the former Miss Pauline Ward of this city, died at 5:00 p.m. Sunday at his home in Ashland following a heart attack.  He had been in ill health for some time, but his death came unexpectedly. Surviving besides his wife are one daughter, Mrs. Rebecca Penn of Sadieville, Ky., two grandchildren, his mother, and three brothers. Funeral services were held at the J. W. Call Funeral Home, Pikeville, at 2:00 p.m. today. Burial was made at Pikeville. Paintsville Herald  Wednesday March 21, 1956 Husband Of Former Resident Dies Sunday Funeral services for James Ramsey, 48, Ashland, husband of Mrs. Pauline Ward Ramsey, formerly of this city, were held Wednesday afternoon , March 21, at the Pikeville Methodist Church. Mr. Ramsey, an electrician, died about 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 18, after suffering a heart attack.  He had been ill for several months. Mr. Ramsey was well-known in the sports circles having been the first boy to make the all- state team from the Big Sandy area.  He played for Pikeville High in the late 20's. He had made his home in Ashland for the past three years. He was a member of the Methodist Church, the Masonic Order and the Odd Fellows Lodge. Born in Pikeville, he was a son of Mrs. Virginia Tracy Ramsey and the late W. M. Ramsey. Surviving besides his mother and his wife are a daughter, Mrs. Rebecca Sue Penn, Sadieville, three brothers, George and John Ramsey, both of Pikeville, and Lt. Comdr. Charles Paul Ramsey, of the U. S. Navy at Philadelphia, and two grandchildren. Burial was made in the Ramsey Cemetery on North Mayo Trail. Paintsville Herald Wednesday March 28, 1956
ROBINSON, Thomas
1879-1956
Dies Saturday Rites Held Monday For County Resident
Thomas Robinson, 77, died at 11:55 a.m. Saturday, Mar.31 1956, at his home in West Van Lear following an illness of one day. Born Jan.10 1879, at East Point, he was the son of the late Henry and Martha Steven Robinson. He was a retired miner and had been a resident of West Van Lear for 11 years. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Minnie Goble Robinson, two sons, Jim RObinson, Hellier; and Tommie Robinson, Elwood, Ind; and six daughters, Mrs. Manchie Goble, Miss Ollie Robinson, Mrs. Manda Perkins, Mrs. Amma Titlow, Mrs. Elizabeth Akers, all of West Van Lear, and Mrs. Okey Knotts, Elwood, Ind. He is also survived by 32 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted Monday at the home with Rev. S.C. Honeycutt officiating.  Burial was made in the Cumbo Cemetery at West Van Lear under the direction of the Jones Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY Apr.04 1956
SALYER, Addison M.
1874-1956
A. M. Salyer, 81,Retied Farmer Dies Suddenly Heart Attack Fatal To Collista Resident A. M. Salyer, 81, retired farmer, died suddenly of a heart attack Tuesday, March 13, at his home at Collista. Mr. Salyer was a prominent citizen of the Jennies Creek vicinity.  As a successful farmer, he was well known and had many friends in this county.  Familiarly known as "Add", his sudden death brings sorrow to many. He was a member of one of Eastern Kentucky's largest families, his forebears being pioneers who helped settle the Big Sandy Valley when it was on unbroken wilderness. The son of the late Thomas and Mahala Caudill Salyer, he was born in Johnson County November 30, 1874.  He was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. He was preceded in death fifteen years ago by his wife, Cora Rice Salyer. Surviving are seven sons, Ray Salyer, Colista, Roy Salyer, St. Cloud, Florida, Grady Salyer, Ypsilanti, Michigan, Cecil Salyer, Louisville, Patrick Salyer, Ashland, Addison Salyer, Ann Arbor, Michigan, Billie Salyer, Lawrenceburg, Indiana; four daughters, Mrs. Reba Trimble, West Liberty, Ohio; Mrs. Bethel Lowe, Ashland; Mrs. Pauline Blair, Barnetts Creek; and Miss Ruth Salyer, Collista. Also surviving are two brothers, Lawrence Salyer, Portsmouth, Ohio, and Frank Salyer, Jackson, Ohio and two sisters, Mrs. Julia Horn, Portsmouth, O., and Mrs. Myrtle Blair, Dayton, Ohio. Funeral services were held Friday morning, March 16, at the Collista Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Carroll Caudill and Rev. M. R. Thomason as officiating ministers. Honorary pallbearers were D. H. Dorton, Frank Chandler, Ray Turner, Clark Walters, Harry Thomas and G. H. Rice.  Active pallbearers were the grandsons of Mr. Salyer. Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the Salyer Cemetery at Hager Hill under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 3-20-1956
SNAVELY, Glenice (Wilson)
1956
Glenice Snavely Victim Of Cancer
Mrs. Glenice Wilson Snavely, about 48, of Little Paint near East Point, died Sunday morning at the Prestonsburg General Hospital. She had been ill since November 1954 and had spent several months in the Baptist Hospital at Lexington and the Prestonsburg Hospital. Her death was attributed to cancer. Mrs. Snavely was the wife of Joe Snavely and the daughter of Jack Wilson and the late Nora Adams Wilson. She had spent her entire lifetime on Little Paint where she has many relatives and friends. Surviving besides her father are three children, Mrs. Wilma Verne Crisp of Martin; two sons, Walter Snavely of West Virginia and Jackie at home, also one brother, Darwin Wilson. Funeral services were held Tuesday on Little Paint, and burial was made in the family cemetery under the directions of the Carter and Callahan Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MARCH 7, 1956
SPRIGGS, Clara (Pack)
1892-1956
County Woman Passes Thursday Pneumonia Fatal To Mrs. Clara Spriggs
Mrs. Clara Pack Spriggs, 64, a lifelong resident of this county, died at her home at Meally Thursday following an illness of two weeks.  Death was attributed to pneumonia. A resident of Meally for four years, she was born January 18, 1892, at Boons Camp, the daughter of the late George and Vina Ward Pack.  She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. She was preceded in death in 1946 by her husband, Henry Spriggs. Surviving are three sons, Oscar, Howard and Delmar Spriggs, all of Boons Camp; four daughters, Mrs. Edna Fitch, Mrs. Alka Wells, and Mrs. Vina Williams, all of Meally, and Mrs. Gertrude Collins, Tomahawk; three sisters, Mrs. Joe Dutton, Meally, Mrs. Jessie Bowens, city, and Mrs. Virgil Fitch, Meally and 11 grandchildren. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the home of Kermit Wells with Scott Castle as officiating minister. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Boons Camp under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 3-28-1956
STAFFORD, Ray
1892-1956
RAY STAFFORD SERVICES HELD TUESDAY FOR PROMINENT CITIZEN
Ray Stafford, 64, well-known and beloved citizen of this city, died in a local hospital early Sunday morning following a heart attack suffered Saturday afternoon. He had been confined to his home with a heart condition for the past two months. The son of the late T. R. and Sarah C. Litteral Stafford, he was born February 22, 1892, at Oil Springs. A member of one of Johnson County's most prominent families, he was a postal clerk at the local post office for 30 years until his retirement in March, 1953. He was affiliated with the First Methodist Church where he had been an active member of the choir and the Men's Bible Class. Small in stature only, he possessed an amiable and kind disposition and a great capacity for friendship. He is survived by his wife, Julia Stapleton Stafford, two sons, Jack Stafford, San Jose, California and Paul Martin Stafford of this city; two daughters, Mrs. Raymond Spears and Miss Dorothy Ray Stafford, both of this city. Other survivors include two sisters, Madge and Mary Louise Stafford, both of Oil Springs, and four brothers, Harve, Earl and Charles Stafford, all of Oil Springs, and Grady Stafford of this city. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Stella, who died in infancy, and Mrs. M. O. Wheeler, who died in 1951. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon in the chapel of the Paintsville Funeral Home with the Reverend W.F. Pettus officiating. Active pallbearers were George Auxier, David Auxier, Paul Auxier, Harold B. Timble, Charles O. Wheeler, Jr., Charles Marion Stafford, Joe Trimble, Douglas VanHoose and Neil Price, nephews of Mr. Stafford, and Jess Songer. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Oil Springs under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday March 14, 1956
STAMBAUGH, Elizabeth (Walters)
1892-1956
Mrs. Elizabeth Stambaugh, 63, Ashland, Ky., died in a local hospital Saturday night, March 17, 1956, following an illness of two years. The daughter of the late James P. and Sarah Frances Daniel Walters, she was born in this county October 6, 1892. She had been a resident of Ashland for six years. A devoutly Christian woman, Mrs. Stambaugh was a member of the Old Orchard Church of Christ. She is survived by her husband, C. H. Stambaugh, two sons, Marshall Williamson, city and John Morgan Stambaugh, Pikeville, and two daughters, Mrs. George Branhan, city and Mrs. Jack Castle, West Van Lear. Other survivors include five brothers, Oscar, Jess H. and H. R. Walters, all of Ashland, Vint Walters, Patrick, Ky.,and German Walters, Georges Creek, and one sister, Mrs. S. B. Williamson, Wittensville. Funeral services were held Monday morning at the First Christian Church with the Rev. Joseph Zavadsky and the Rev. E. J. Sparrow officiating. Burial was made in the Rose Hill Cemetery at Ashland under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wed. 3-20-1956
STANLEY, John
1892-1956
Services Held Monday For John Stanley, 63,
John Stanley 63, a resident of Thealka for ten years, died in a local hospital Friday night. A Miner by occupation, he was a member of the United Mine Workers, Local 5834, and the Freewill Baptist Church. He was born April 25, 1892 in Johnson County, the son of the late Have and Susan Lyons Stanley. He is survived by his wife Lutisha Stanley, five daughters, Mrs. Irvin Ward, and Mrs. Curtis Sturgill. both of Thealka.  Mrs. James Crider, Staffordsville, and Mrs. Billie Adkins and Mrs. Robert Williams, both of this city. Other Survivors included one sister, Sallie Bush, Kenova, W.Va. and a half brothers Wess Nelson, West Van Lear. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Thealka Freewill Baptist Church with James Lyons and Don Fraley as officiating ministers Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the Town Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday Mar-7-1956


APRIL - 1956
   
BOLING, Anna (Bowens)
1884-1956
Mrs. Anna Bowens Boling, 68, wife of Millard Boling, of West Van Lear, died at her home Thursday morning following an illness of 18 months. Born at Boons Camp, September 12 1884, she was the daughter of Lige and Minnie Murray Bowens. She was a member of the Free Will Baptist Church. Surviving besides her husband are two sons, Paul Boling, Lackey, Ky.; and Orville Boling, Ironton, Ohio; six daughters, Mrs. Ollie Sexton, St Helen, Oregon; Mrs. Gertrude Runyon, Kermit, W. Va.; Mrs. Myrtle Ratliff, West Van Lear; Mrs Thelma Murray, White House, Ky.; Mrs. Ethel Sanders, Toledo, Ohio; and Mrs. Nellie Webb, Lancer, Ky.; and 24 grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren. Other survivors include two brothers, John Bowens, Tomahawk; and Sam Bowens, Matewan, W. Va.; and two sisters, Mysilbe Mollette, Tomahawk; and Margaret Bowens, Denver. Funeral services were held Saturday morning at the home with Will Horn as officiating minister. Burial was made in the Cumbo Cemetery at West Van Lear under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD MAY 2 1956
BROWN, Philemon
Car Wreck Kills Philemon Brown Rites at McDowell For Oregon Soldier A/3C Philemon Brown, 21, was killed instantly Wednesday morning April 18, when the car he was driving crashed into a telephone pole near Portland, Oregon. Brown, who was stationed with the 337th Fighter Group, Portland International Airport, Portland Oregon, had purchased the 1951 Ford a few days before the accident. A friend, Donald Rhines, who was riding in the car, received INCOMPLETE OBITUARY PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 4-25-1956
CARR, James Allen
1900-1956
Services Friday For James Carr, West Van Lear
Funeral services were held at the home at West Van Lear Friday afternoon for James Allen Carr, 55, who died at his home Tuesday night following an illness of several months. Born at Whitesville, Ky., September 30, 1900, he was the son of James and Anna Meyers Carr. He is survived by his wife, Verna Daniels Carr, four sons, James L. Carr, Springfield, O., Bobbie Roy Carr, Burl Allen Carr and Paul Carr, all of West Van Lear, and four daughters, Glendora Daniel, Springfield, Ohio, and Sallie Joan Carr, Neola Carr and Fredda June Carr, all of West Van Lear. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Offutt under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday April 25, 1956
CASTLE, Sam B.
1887-1956
Services Today For Sam Castle Retired Miner Dies Sunday Afternoon
Funeral services were held this afternoon for Sam B. Castle, 68, a retired miner of Thealka, who died in a local hospital Sunday afternoon (Apr.15 1956). Born June 3 1887, in Johnson County, he was the son of the late Amos and Elizabeth Castle. He was a member of the Pentecostal Church. He is survived by his wife, Minnie Castle, three sons, Everett Castle, Thealka; Curtis Castle, City; and Sam Castle Jr., Springfield, Ohio; three daughters, Della Marie Estep, Thealka, Norma Jean Haney, Thealka; and Ruth Ailene Campbell, Water Gap, Ky.; one brother, Willie Castle, Thealka; and one sister, Sarah Castle, Nippa. Burial was made in the Thealka Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY APR.18 1956
CONLEY, Kate (Blair)
1880-1956
Mrs. Kate Conley Of Hager Hill Dies Wednesday
Mrs. Kate Blair Conley, 76, wife of Hayden Conley of Hager Hill, died at her home Wednesday morning an illness of two years. Born April 13 1880, in Johnson County, she was the daughter of the late Ned and Nancy Morton Blair. She was a member of the Church of God. Surviving besides her husband are one son, Robert Conley, of Hager Hill; three daughters, Mrs. Mildred Conley, and Mrs. Rusha Music, both of Hager Hill; and Mrs. Carmalee Parker, Kent, Ohio; and one sister, Mrs. Ida Conley, Collista. Funeral services were held Saturday at the home with the Rev. Adron Davis officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Hager Hill under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD MAY 2 1956
CONLEY, Zelda (Daniel)
1909-1956
Dies Thursday Brief Illness Fatal To Mrs. Luther Daniels
Mrs. Zelda Daniel Conley, 47, a lifelong resident of Nippa, Ky., died Monday morning in a local hospital after suffering a stroke. Born March 17, 1909, she was the daughter of Anderson and Molly Daniel. She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Surviving are her husband, Tollie Conley, four step-sons, Willie Conley, Washington Courthouse, Ohio, Willard Conley, Jackson, Ohio, Troy Conley, Hager Hill and Charles Conley, Nippa and one step-daughter, Mrs. Georgia Skinner, Mt. Sterling, Ohio. Also surviving are five brothers, Bascom Daniel, Tutor, Key, Curt, Earl and Theodore Daniel all of Nippa, and Lawrence Daniel, Thealka, and one sister, Mrs. Ella Music, Nippa. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. today at the Mouth of Rush Freewill Baptist Church. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home.  Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 2, 1956
DANIEL, Savillar (Preston)
1878-1956
COUNTY WOMAN DIES THURSDAY
Brief Illness Fatal to Mrs. Luther Daniel
Mrs. Savillar Daniel, 77, wife of Luther Daniel of River, KY., died Thursday afternoon, in a local hospital following an illness of two weeks. The daughter of the late Marion and Vina Stambaugh Preston, she was born December 9, 1878, in King's Addition. She had been a resident of River for 59 years. Surviving besides the husband are one son, Jay Daniel, River, seven daughters, Mrs. Gustava Price, Dayton, OH, Mrs. Matilda Preston, River. Mrs. Mary Meek, River, Mrs. Mandy Stapleton, Tutor Key, Mrs., Roberta VanHoose,  Tutor Key, Mrs. Gladys Stapleton, Tutor Key, and Mrs. Goldia Castle, River 56 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are three sister, Mrs. Mandy Scarberry, Lucasville, Oh, Mrs. Winfield Preston, Minford, and Mrs. Maude Ward, River. Funeral services were held Sunday morning at the River United Baptist Church with Cully Sparks and Winfred Meek as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Daniel Cemetery on Wiley Branch under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. NOTE: This cemetery is also known as the  "LUTHER DANIEL CEMETERY" PAINTSVILLE HERALD MAY 2 1956
DANIELS, Minnie Rebecca (Brown)
1880-1956
COUNTY WOMAN PASSES FRIDAY
Mrs. Minnie Rebecca Daniels, 76, wife of Artho Daniels of Volga, died at her home Friday morning following an illness of several months. The daughter of the late John and Lucinda Harmon Brown she was born in Johnson County (Kentucky) March 24, 1880.  She had been a resident of Volga for a year. Surviving are her husband, two sons, Verlin Daniels, Lowmansville, and Everett Daniels, Walbridge, Ohio; four daughters, Nola Wheeler and Artha Castle, both of Ashland, Lucinda Castle, Sitka, and Thoral Blanton, Volga; 19 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren; one brother, George Brown, Volga, and one sister, Mrs. Lettie Sturgill, Flat Gap. Funeral services were held Sunday morning at the Upper Sitka School with F.F. Rigsby as officiating minister. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Sitka under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD 4-18-1956
FERGUSON, Matilda (Skaggs)
1867-1956
Morgan County Woman Passes Services Held Tuesday For Mrs. J. F. Ferguson
Mrs. Matilda Skaggs Ferguson 88, wife of J. F. "Jim" Ferguson of Crockett , Morgan County, Ky., died at her home Sunday morning following an illness of a few days. The daughter of the late Mart and Kathie Luster Skaggs, she was born September 17, 1867 in Lawrence County.  She was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church. She is survived by her husband J. F. Ferguson, whom she married in 1886, five sons, Richard Ferguson, Ottway, O., Luther Ferguson, Talmage, O., Anthony Ferguson, Stockdale, Ohio, Martin Ferguson, Portsmouth, Ohio, and Isaac Ferguson, Crockett, Ky,;four daughters, Mrs. Anna Watson, Shingleton, Michigan, Katherine Hamilton and Nancy Hamilton, both of Keaton, Ky., and Lucy Sparks, Ashland, Ky. Also surviving are five brothers, Lewis Skaggs, Elk Fork,Ky., Nathaniel Skaggs, Moon, Ky., Asa Skaggs, Fannin, Ky., Walter Skaggs, Clearfield, Ky., and David Skaggs, Soldier, Ky., and three sisters, Mrs. Ruth Wheeler, Blaine, Ky., Mrs. Sallie Fannin, Crockett, Ky., and Mrs. Risca Ferguson, Givens Station, Ky. Funeral services were held at the home Tuesday morning with Robie Ferguson and Addie Ferguson as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 4-4-1956
GULLETT, Irene (Bush)
1886-1956
Local Woman Dies Saturday Services Monday For Mrs. Sherman Gullett
Mrs. Irene Bush Gullett, 69, a lifelong resident of the Southside section of Paintsville, died Saturday morning at the home of her son in Columbus, Ohio. She had been living in Columbus for two weeks. The daughter of the late Charlie and Margaret Castle Bush, she was born in Johnson County May 7, 1886. She was a member of the United Baptist Church. She was preceded in death in May 1943, by her husband, Sherman Gullett, who was an employee of the Herald for a number of years. Surviving are six sons, Warren Gullett, Sr., Columbus, OH, William Gullett, Owensboro, KY, Charles Gullett, Lexington, KY, Paul Gullett, Canton, OH, Robert Gullett, Cleveland, OH, and Jack Gullett, city; two sisters, Mrs. John Stanley, Thealka, and Mrs. Frank Williams, Catlettsburg, and one brother, John Bush. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Paintsville United Baptist Church with F. F. Risgsby and Cully Sparks as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Paintsville under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY APRIL 11, 1956
HAMILTON, Claude E.
1904-1956
PASSES SATURDAY SERVICES HELD MONDAY FOR CLAUDE HAMILTON
Claude E. Hamilton, 51, a miner of Thealka, Ky., died  Saturday morning in a local hospital following an illness of several months. Born December 9, 1904, in Morgan County, he was the son of Issac and Louise Conley Hamilton. He had been a resident of Thealka for eight years. Surviving are his wife, Ruby Blair Hamilton, four sons, Paul, Hollie, Robert and Frank Hamilton, all of Thealka, and six daughters, Helen Welch, Thealka, Ann Blanton, Wheelersburg, Ohio, Dora Daniel, Sitka, and Claudette, Margaret and Sarah Hamilton all of Thealka; two brothers, Walter Hamilton, Jenkins, and Arnold Hamilton, Columbus, Ohio; and three sisters, Gertrude Mead, Catlettsburg, Myrtle Cantrell, and Ola Williams, both of Ashland. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at Thealka Freewill Baptist Church with Claude Preston as officiating minister assisted by Hollie Conley.  Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 4-11-1956
HOWARD, Johnnie
1956
Howard Child Dies After Short Illness
Services Held Tuesday, Johnnie Howard, three-year-old-son of Angus and Goldie Castle Howard of Flat Fork, died Sunday afternoon in a local hospital following an illness of two weeks. Surviving besides the parents are three brothers, Billie, Bob, and Mack Howard, all at home, and four sisters, Mrs. Howard Meade, Flat Fork, Gracie, Shirley Jean and Orlene Howard, all at home. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the home with Edgar Van Hoose and Willie Isaac officiating. Burial was made in the Jellico Cemetery at Flat Fork under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 4-4-1956
KELLY, Millard
1885-1956
MILLARD KELLY, KEATON RESIDENT, PASSES TUESDAY
Millard Kelly, 71, lifelong resident of Keaton,Ky., died Tuesday afternoon enroute to a local hospital.  He had been in ill health for several years. Born April 24, 1885, he was the son of the late Peter and Mary Segraves Kelly.  He was a retired farmer and a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife, Martha Gillum Kelly, two sons, Lunda Kelly, Volga, and Millard Kelly, Jr., Fort Knox, Ky.; five daughters, Mrs. Jettia Marcum, Ravenna, Ky., Mrs. Edna McCormick, Mrs. Glenn Wallin, Martha, Ky., Mrs. Clarence Bailey, Grove Port, Ohio and Mrs. Curt Rigsby, Martha, Ky.; one sister, Miss Josephine Kelly, Flat Gap, and two brothers, Merida Kelly, Skaggs, Ky., and Lon Kelly, Portsmouth, Ohio. Funeral services were held Friday morning at the Keaton Church with Homer Evans, Emerson Collier, and John Pelphrey as officiating ministers.  Burial was made in the Lyons Cemetery at Keaton under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 4-4-1956
MCKENZIE, Tora (Cantrell)
1956
COUNTY WOMAN DIES SUNDAY
Services Held Tuesday For Mrs. T. McKenzie
Mrs. Tora McKenzie, 78 died Sunday afternoon in a local hospital following a long illness.  She was a resident of River. The daughter of the late Bill & Phoebe McKenzie Cantrell, she was born at Flat Gap.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Her husband, Jethro McKenzie, preceded her in death, December 9, 1953. Surviving are four sons, Crate McKenzie, Fred McKenzie, William McKenzie and Dolpha McKenzie all of Sunbury, Ohio; two daughters, Mrs. Chauncery Wheeler, River and miss Elizabeth McKenzie, Flat Gap, 12 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She is also survived by three brothers, Frank Cantrell, Portsmouth, Ohio, Edd Cantrell, Flat Gap, and Loamn Cantrell, Fuget, and one sister, Alice Castle, city. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at the Bethel Church with the Revs. Lonza Reed and Tommy Bailey officiating . Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Printed: April 13, 1956
NEWSOM, Earl
1956
EARL NEWSOM, 40, KILLED INSTANTLY IN OHIO COLLISION
Services Held Today For Williamsport Man Earl Newsom, 40, Columbus, Ohio a former resident of Williamsport, was killed instantly Sunday afternoon, April 29, 1956 when the car he was driving crashed into another car.  Three passengers in the Newsom car were also killed instantly.  The driver of the other car is in serious condition in a Columbus, Ohio hospital. The accident occurred on Route 104, four miles from Chillicothe, Ohio. Newsom, the son of Mrs. Dollie Bowens Newsom Crum of Williamsport, and the late John Newsom, was employed as a machinist by the Buckeye Steel Castings Company of Columbus. He had been a resident there for twelve years. Prior to moving to Ohio, he served with the U.S. Army in World War II. Surviving besides his mother are one brother, Johnnie Newsom, Columbus, Ohio, one sister, Mrs. May Lamb, Columbus, O., and one half-brother, Willie Crum, Washington, D.C. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. today, Wednesday May 12, 1956 at the Buffalo United Baptist Church with Cullie Sparks and Leonard Walters as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Offutt under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 2, 1956
REED, George
1889-1956
GEORGE REED, 66, PASSES FRIDAY
George Reed, 66, a resident of Boons Camp for twenty-seven years, died at his home Friday afternoon following an illness of two years. Born August 15, 1889 at East Point, he was the son of the late Hiram and Dorcas Freeman Reed. He was a farmer and miner and a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife, Sarah Daniels Reed, five sons, Hiram, Noah, Fred, Dave and Tom Reed, all of Boons Camp; two daughters Mrs. Bud Reed and Mrs. Lloyd Gillispie, both of Boons Camp; 13 grand-children and one great-grandchild. Also surviving are one brother, Frank Reed, Boons Camp, and one sister, Mrs. Charity Adams, also of Boons Camp. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the home of Melvin Cisco. Fred Rowland and Bill Duty as officiating ministers.  Burial was made in the Ramey Cemetery at East Point under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY APRIL 18 1956
SCOTT, Emma (Smith)
1885-1956
Heart Attack Fatal To Mrs. Emma Scott, Well-Known Resident
Mrs. Emma Scott, 70, well-known resident of this city for a number of years, died Friday morning of a heart attack at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Hansel Preston, on Fourth Street. The daughter of the late W. B. and Pricy Runyon Smith, she was born October 14, 1885, in Pike County.  She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, W. T. Scott, who died July 24, 1953. Surviving are one son, Luther P. Scott, Bath, North Carolina; six daughters, Mrs. Etta Stewart, Mrs. Harry Thomas, Mrs. James H. Conley, Mrs. Hansel Preston, and Mrs. Tom R. King, all of Paintsville, and Mrs. Arnold Pack, Beaver, Ohio; one brother, Mr. Lat Smith, Williamson, W. Va., and three sisters, Mrs. Willie Oliver and Mrs. Walter Oaks, both of Williamson, W. Va., and Mrs. Berlin Oney, Ashland. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Southside Freewill Baptist Church with the Revs. Homer Willis, Stanley Borders and M. R. Thomason officiating.  Music was by the Goodwill Four. Burial was made in the Richmond Cemetery in King Addition under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Active pallbearers were John Compton, Arthur Castle, Arlan Ferguson, Clarence Melvin, Byrd O. Preston and Henry Evans. Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 2, 1956
STAPLETON, Drucilla
1870-1956
Flat Gap Woman Dies Sunday Services Held Tuesday For Drucilla Stapleton
Miss Drucilla Stapleton, 85, died at her home at Flat Gap, Sunday morning following an illness of a week. The daughter of the late Joseph and Samantha Salyer Stapleton, she was born December 6 1870, at Flat Gap. She was a member of the United Batist Church. Surviving is one sister, Anna McKenzie, of Flat Gap. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Paris Stapleton, and Harlan Stapleton. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at the Bethel United Baptist Church with Lonza Reed and Tommy Bailey as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Salyer Cemetery at Flat Gap under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD APR.18 1956 This Herald was published on Wednesday Apr.18 1956 so it would make the  death date for Drucilla on Apr.15 1956
VANHOOSE, Ivan
1886-1956
Ivan VanHoose Dies Suddenly Of Heart Attack
Ivan VanHoose 70, a retired C and O Railroad employee and a lifelong resident of this city died suddenly Friday morning of a heart attack. The son of the late Lafe and Lizzie Daniels VanHoose he was born May 23, 1886. He was preceded in death March 15, 1947 by his wife, Delesia Sublett VanHoose. Surviving are one daughter, Mrs. Thomas J. Carter, Springfield, Ohio, two grandsons; Michael and Thomas Carter, and one nephew, Clifford Earl VanHoose of this city. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon in the chapel of the Preston Funeral Home with C. C. Hall and Merida Wiley as officiating ministers. Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Active pallbearers were Charlie Newsom, Glen Moles, W. H. Penix, George Perry, Arnold Lyons and Fred Wolchik. Burial was made in the Sublett Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAY 2 1956
WARD, Mary Elizabeth (Harris)
1876-1956
County Woman Passes Thursday Rites Held Saturday For Mrs. Mary E. Ward
Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Ward, 78, a resident of River, Ky., for the past 62 years died in a local hospital Thursday morning following an illness of two weeks. The daughter of the late Kelire and Lou Harmon Harris, she was born December 25, 1876, at Lancer, Ky.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church. She was preceded in death in 1918 by her husband, Elliott Ward. Surviving are two sons, Forrest and Ernest Ward, both of River, two daughters, Mrs. Georgia Mae Layne, Betsy Layne, and Mrs. Virginia Kendrick, Janey, Virginia, and one brother, John Harris, Lancer. Funeral services were held Saturday at the home with Winfred Meek and cully Sparks as officiating ministers.  Burial was made in the family cemetery at River under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald 4-25-1956
WILLIAMS, Leo
1956
LEO WILLIAMS,75, DIES IN OHIO
Leo Williams, 75, native of Johnson County, died April 19, at his home in Williamsburg, Ohio, after an illness of 13 years. A former teacher in the Johnson County schools, he became a successful farmer after going to Ohio. Surviving are his widow, Ollie Lemaster Williams, four children, and one sister, Mrs. W. H. Wheeler of Olive Hill. Burial ws made in the Clover Valley Cemetery at Williamsburg, following funeral services there Sunday. Among those attending the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Preston of Van Lear; Dr. and Mrs. W. H. Wheeler of Olive Hill; Mr. and Mrs. Scotty Roberts and son, Kent Earle of Ashland, and Mrs. Sanford Williams of Elna. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 4-25-1956
OBITUARY Leo Williams, 74, native of Johnson County, died Thursday, April 19, after an illness of 13 years. He moved to Williamsburg, Ohio several years ago, and was a successful farmer until his illness. He was the son of Sanford J. and Lucina Reed Williams, and was a member of one of Johnson County's oldest and most prominent families. He joined the United Baptist Church in his early youth.  He expressed great faith in his Lord during his long illness. In his early life he united in marriage to Allie Lemaster, and to this union were born four children, two daughter and two sons.  They are: Edith Avey, Deleware, Ohio; Eleanor Klein, Cincinnati, Ohio; Garth Williams, Belford, Ohio; and Raymond Williams of New Jersey. Also surviving aare one sister, Rosa Wheeler, wife of Dr. W. H. Wheeler of Olive Hill, Ky.; one brother, George Herbert Williams, Indianapolis, Ind.; eight grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted in the Williamsburg Funeral Home and burial followed in the Clover Valley Cemetery in Williamsburg. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 4-25-1956
WILLIAMS, Millard F.
1883-1956
Services Held Tuesday For Millard Williams
Millard F. Williams, 72 a retired farmer, died Saturday morning at his home at Win, Ky., after suffering a heart attack. Born June 1, 1883, in Johnson County, he was the son of the late Alex and Susan Bayes Williams. He is survived by his wife, May Reed Williams, one daughter, Mrs. Clyde Blanton, Win, Ky., and two grandchildren. Also surviving are six brothers, Charlie Williams, city, Dord Williams, Mt. Sterling, Ohio, Tom Williams, Win, Ky., Taylor Williams, Red Bush, John Williams, Portsmough, Ohio, and Floyd Williams, Mt. Sterling, Ohio. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at the home with Foster Figsby, Cully Sparks and Vencil Pelphrey as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday April 25, 1956
WRIGHT, James Henderson
1882-1956
FORMER RESIDENT DIES IN W. VA.
Rites Today At Ashland For James H. Wright
James Henderson Wright, 73, Ashland, owner of the Wright Wholesale Produce Company of Huntington, died Monday in a Huntington hospital. Born November 26, 1882, in Johnson County, he was the son of Billy and Sirilda Skaggs Wright. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Lydia Wright, a son, Orville Wright, Nitro, W. Va., a daugh- ter, Mrs. America Holbrook, Ashland; a brother, Wayne Wright, Ashland; and a sister,- Mrs. Laura Gillem, Ashland, and four grandchildren. Funeral services were con- ducted in Ashland this morning. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Red Bush. Paintsville Herald Wednesday April 11, 1956 

MAY - 1956

AKERS, Millard
1872-1956
MILLARD AKERS MILLARD AKERS PASSES MONDAY
Long Illness Fatal To Well-Known Miner, Farmer, Mail Carrier
Millard Akers, 84, well-known Johnson County citizen, succumbed at a local hospital following an illness of eighteen months. Born in Floyd County April 18, 1872, he was the son of the late James Henry and Nancy Jane Burchett Akers.  He was a member of the Church of Christ. He retired several years ago from his various occupations as miner, farmer and rural mail carrier. He was married July 31, 1896, to Myrtle Preston, who survives. Surviving, besides his wife are three sons, Joe Akers, Sitka, James Akers, Nippa, and Mitchell Akers, Ashland; five daughters, Mrs. Nancy Jane Witten, Sitka, Mrs. Naomi Baldwin, Ashland, Mrs. Melisie VanHoose, Nippa, Mrs. Sophia Bearn, Stambaugh, and Mrs. Evelyn Italia, Dayton, Ohio; three sisters, Mrs. Millie Daniel, Stambaugh, Mrs. Minerva Chandler, city, and Mrs. Sophia Blankenship, Moncure, N.C., and one brother, Thomas B. Akers, Stambaugh. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. today at the Stambaugh Church of Christ with the Reverend Joseph Zavadsky officiating.  Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Stambaugh under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 16, 1956
BROWN, Frank
1877-1956
FRANK BROWN, 78, Native of Floyd, Dies in Minnesota
Funeral services were conducted for Frank Brown by the Rev. E. T. Hare at the Monticello Funeral Home, Monticello, Minnesota, Wednesday, May 23.  Mr. Brown who had been in ill health for the past several years died Sunday, May 20, at the Memorial Hospital in Buffalo, Minnesota, where he had been a patient for the past three weeks. The son of Henry and Margaret Baldridge Brown, he was born December 2, 1877, in Floyd County and was seventy-eight years of age at the time of his death.  He was a member of the Methodist Church since his early youth. He was married July 20, 1906, to Liddie Adams of Volga and to this union were born seven children.  In 1907, he and his wife moved to Minnesota, where he engaged in farming near Maple Lake for many years.  Leaving the farm, the family moved to Buffalo where they resided until about six years ago when they moved to Monticello. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Liddie Adams Brown; three daughters, Mrs. Ed Lange, Mrs. Lloyd Riske and Mrs. Harry Berthiaume, all of Monticello; four sons, William, Buffalo; Paris, New Brighton and Woodrow and Russell, both of Minneapolis; 28 grandchildren, 14 great- grandchildren, five sisters, Martha, Volga; Nancy, Columbus, Ohio; Nerve, Blaine; Hattie, Paintsville; Lou, Nippa; one brother, Andrew, Volga. Pallbearers were grandchildren, Lyle and Don Riske, Henry Lange and Jim, Phil and Marvin Brown. Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery in Monticello. Paintsville Herald Wednesday June 6, 1956
CASTLE, Harry
1956
Harry Castle, 70, Garrett, Ky., former resident of Johnson County, died May 3 1956. He was the son of Salliy VanHoose Castle Preston, of Tutor Key, and the late Jackson Castle. He was first married to Ferbia Jane Green and to this union ten children were born. Seven of the children preceded him in death. He later married Dulceina Slone of Garrett, who survives.  Surviving besides his wife and mother are three children, Raymond Castle, Dayton, Ohio; Mary Ethel Post, Urbana, Ohio; and Dovie Butcher, Wabash, Indiana; two brothers, Clyde Castle, Hager Hill; General Castle, Tutor Key; one sister, Mrs. Ella Green, Lowmansville, and three grandchildren. Burial was in the family cemetery at Lowmansville. PAINTSVILLE HERALD MAY 16 1956
CENTERS, Lydia (Conley)
1880-1956
Mrs. Tom Centers  Passes Monday Services Held Today For County Woman
Mrs. Lydia Conley Centers, 76, wife of Tom Centers of Volga, formerly of Denver, died Monday morning May 23 1956, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ida Stapleton, Volga, following an illness of three months. A resident of Denver most of her life, she and her husband moved to Volga three years ago, where they had been making their home with their daughter. Born March 22 1880, in Johnson County, she was the daughter of the late Tom and Sarah Reynolds Conley. She was a member of the Methodist Church. Surviving besides her husband are one son, Adron Centers, Volga, three daughters, Mrs. Ida Stapleton, Volga; Mrs. Marie Ratliff, Sitka; Mrs. Della Fairchilds, Denver; two sisters, Mts. Julia Spradlin, Denver; and Mrs. Della Evans, city; 23 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. Funeral services were held this afternoon at the home of Mrs. Stapleton at Volga with Scott Castle, Charlie Lemasters and Adron Davis. Burial was made in the Spradlin Cemetery at Denver under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. (Death Date calculated and entered in this obit from date of publication) PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAY 25 1956
CONLEY, Ellean (Blanton)
1871-1956
SERVICES HELD SUNDAY FOR MRS. ELLEAN CONLEY
Funeral services were held Sunday at the Riceville Freewill Baptist Church Sunday afternoon for Mrs. Ellean Conley, 85, who died Friday afternoon at her home at Swamp Branch, following an illness of ten days.  Born January 25, 1871, in Magoffin County, who was the daughter of the late William and Elizabeth Pace Blanton. She was preceded in death in 1954 by her husband, Pierce Conley.  Surviving are two sons, Lindsey Conley, Stockbridge, Michigan, and Lonza Conley, Swamp Branch; two daughters, Mrs. Curt May and Mrs. Edgar Caudill, both of Swamp Branch, and one sister, Mrs. Adaline Gullett, Wheelersburg, KY.  Services were conducted by the Revs. Scott Castle and Wee Caudill.  Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet.  Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAY 30 1956
CRUM, Tom
1896-1956
Services Friday For Tom Crum, 60 Boons Camp Man Dies In Huntington Hospital Following Long Illness Tom Crum, 60, a lifelong resident of Boons Camp died in the Veterans Hospital, Huntington, W. Va., Wednesday, May 9, following an illness of two years. The son of J. W. and Judy Ward Crum, he was born January 18, 1896.  He was a member of the United Baptist Church and a veteran of World War I. Surviving are his wife, Elizabeth Crum, four step-sons, Hozie Kazee, Clyde Lewis, Paul R. Lewis, and Robert Lewis, all of Boons Camp, and four step-daughters, Arnetta Blanton, Boons Camp, Doris Carmen, Danville, Ohio, Betty Crum, Boons Camp, and Virginia Necessary, Yolyn, W. Va. Other survivors include four brothers, Ben, Bill, and Milt Crum, all of Boons Camp and John Crum, West Van Lear, and one sister, Mrs. Mary Jane Meek, Boons Camp. Funeral services were held Friday at the Little Friendship United Baptist Church with Leonard Walters, Nim Sturgill and Winfrey Meek as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family Cemetery at Boons Camp under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 5-16-1956
DANIEL, Stella H. (Horn)
1956
Services Monday For Local Woman Mrs. Stella H. Daniel
Succumbs Saturday Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Southside Freewill Baptist Church for Mrs. Stella Horn Daniel, 67, Southside, who died Saturday in a Lexington hospital following an illness of several months. Born in Johnson County, she was the daughter of the late Quiller and Sarah Sargraves Horn. She was preceded in death Dec. 24, 1954, by her husband, Rell Daniel. Surviving are one son, Virgil Daniel, Atlanta, Georgia, and one daughter, Mrs. Edward Kuhner, Rochester, New York. Services were conducted by Millard VanHoose with music by the Toms Creek Quartet.  Burial was made in the Huff Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 23, 1956
DANIELS, Walter
1903-1956
Funeral services were held today in Oak Springs United Baptist Church for Walter Daniels, 52, Ashland former resident of this county, who died Sunday noon at his home following an illness of seven months. Elders Edison Conley and Everett Slone officiated at the services and burial was made in the Oak Springs Cemetery. Mr. Daniels, an Appliance Salesman, was born in Johnson County November 4, 1903. a son of the late David K. & Frances Stapleton Daniels. Surviving are a son, Paul Edwin Daniels, of the U.S. Navy; one daughter, Mrs. Ella Frances Gilpin, Paintsville; his stepmother, Mrs. Ella Daniels, Wheelersburg, Ohio; two brothers, Lloyd Daniels, Ashland and Williams Luther Daniels, Waverly, Ohio; three sisters, Mrs. Bessie Worley, Dester, Ohio, Mrs. Harry Posey, Coal Grove and Mrs. Eliza Hanshaw, Ironton; three half- brothers, David K. Daniels, Jr., U.S. Army in Germany, Clyde Daniels, Circleville, Ohio, and Arthur Daniels, Wheelersburg; two half-sisters, Mrs. Aileen Reister, Washington Court House, Ohio, and Mrs. Mary Magdalene Short, Japan, and five grandchildren. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAY 30, 1956
DESKINS, Billie Jean (Music)
1929-1956
SISTERS KILLED IN TRAIN-CAR CRASH IN OHIO
Granddaughters of Nippa Residents Are Victims
Mrs. Billie Jean Deskins of Greenwich, Ohio, and Mrs. Yvonne Slone of Garrett, Ky., were killed instantly in a train and car collision on May 23, 1956, at Greenwich.  They were the granddaughters of Mr. and Mrs. Lum Music and Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Ratliff, all of Nippa.  They were the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. McKinley Music of Greenwich. Mrs. Deskins was born August 3, 1929, at Van Lear, then later moved with her parents to Glo in Floyd County.  She was married to Ernest Deskins who survives.  She also leaves one son, Kenney Kay, aged 9. Mrs. Slone was born July 24, 1934, at Glo and was married to Charlie Slone of Garrett.  She leaves one son, Eddie Ray, aged 5.  Mrs. Slone and Mrs. Deskins are survived by two sisters and six brothers. Both victims were members of the Freewill Baptist Church. Burial was made in the Greenwich Cemetery at Greenwich, Ohio. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-6-1956
ESTEP, Roy
1892-1956
Roy Estep Dies Of Heart Attack
Services Held Today For Well Known Farmer Of Rock House Section Roy Estep 63, a well known farmer of the Rock House section of Johnson County, died suddenly of a heart attack Monday morning (May 28 1956) at his home. Born September 25, 1892 at Rock House, he was the son of the late John and Sarah Marshall Estep. He was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Dessie Blair Estep, and two sisters; Mrs. Lizzie Fairchild, city and Mrs. Virgie McCloud, Danville, Ky. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. today at the Rock House Freewill Baptist Church with Claude Preston and Willard Wilcox as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILL EHERALD WEDNESDAY MAY 30 1956 NOTE: Deathdate figured and entered into this obit  from publication date 
FAIRCHILD, Jesse
1897-1956
Rites Thursday For County Man Heart Attack Fatal to Jesse Fairchild, 58
Jesse Fairchild, 58  lifelong resident of this county died suddenly at his home at Nippa Tuesday morning, May 1, after suffering a heart attack. The son of John W. and Hattie Castle Fairchild, he was born October 15, 1897. He was a miner by occupation. Surviving are one son, Chester Fairchild of Martin, Ky, five daughters, May Wheeler, Lucasville, Ohio, Della Osborn, Wayne, Michigan, Ruby Ousley, Martin, Mary Thompson, Unionville, Ohio, and Lizzie Blevins, Wilkenson, WVa. Also suvriving are two brothers, Abner Fairchild, Nippa, and Robie Fairchild, Kern, and three sisters, Nettie Fairchild, Urbana, Ohio, Villar Fairchild, Nippa, and Vonda Dale, Memphis, Indiana. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon, May 3 at the Mouth of Rush Freewill Baptist Church, with Millard Van Hoose and Harry Salyer as officiating ministers. Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the Daniel Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAY 9 1956
FRALEY, Rova (Austin)
1872-1956
MRS. ROVA FRALEY PASSES TUESDAY AFTER LONG ILLNESS
Mrs. Rova Fraley, 83, a resident of Van Lear, died Tuesday (May 29, 1956) in a local hospital following an illness of a year. Born December 20, 1872, in Morgan County, she was the daughter of the late John and Nanny Phelps Austin. She was a member of the Church of Christ. She was preceded in death in 1950 by her husband, Alphonze Fraley. Surviving are two sons, Logan Fraley, Auxier, and Blaine Fraley, Van Lear; three daughters, Mrs. Nora Davis, Hardy, Ky., Mrs. Pany Viers, Van Lear, and Mrs. Lula Rice, Sinking Springs, Ohio; two sisters, Mrs. Vada Osborn, Naples, Ky., and Mrs. Minnie Buechett, California, and one brother, James Austin, South Webster, Ohio. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 20 great- grandchildren. Funeral services were held Friday (June 1, 1952) with the Rev. S. C. Honeycutt officiating. Burial was made in the Government Cemetery at Auxier under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. The Paintsville Herald Wednesday June 6, 1956
GAMBLE, Elige
1888-1956
Flat Gap Man Dies Thursday Services Saturday For Elige Gamble, 68
Elige Gamble, 68, a resident of Flat Gap for a number of years, succumbed Thursday, May 3, in a local hospital following an illness of a week. The son of the late Lonz and Victoria Cantrell Gamble, he was born December 1, 1888, in Morgan County.  He was a farmer and a member of the Bethel United Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Lillie May Wright Gamble, six son, Jack, Jessie and Lonza Gamble, all of Springfield, Ohio, Kennel Gamble, Flat Gap, and Ossie Gamble, Franklin, Ohio; and four daughters, Marvie Combs, Cincinnati, Ohio, Viola Combs, Dayton, Ohio, Betty Cox, Red Bush, and Matta Jane Flanery, Columbus, Ohio. Also surviving are five sisters, Louise Whitt, Fairborn, O., Millie Wright, Silver Hill, Ky., Margaret Wright, Mima, Ky., Nora Wright, Silver Hill, Ky., and Betty Cantrell, Ophir, Ky., and six brothers, Willie Gamble, Dingus, Ky., Chilli Gamble, Mima, Ky., John Red Gamble, Ophir, Ky., Haney Gamble, West Liberty, Hatfield Gamble, Ophir, Ky., and Floyd Gamble, Dingus, Ky. Funeral services were held Saturday morning at the Bethel Church at Flat Gap with Lonza Reed as the officiating minister. Burial was made in the Jaynes Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 9, 1956
HALL, Mary Alice (Adkins)
1880-1956
Mrs. John Hall Dies Wednesday
Mrs. Mary Alice Hall, 76, wife of John D. Hall of Van Lear, died at her home Wednesday morning following an illness of six months. Born February 13, 1880 in Morgan County she was the daughter of the late Raleigh and Ellen Bollen Adkins. She had been a resident of Van Lear for sixteen years. Surviving besides the husband are four sons; Bob Hall, Peru, Indiana, Bill Hall, Columbus, Ohio, Dick Hall, Van Lear and Cecil Hall, Van Lear; one daughter, Mrs. Nellie Honaker, Columbus, Ohio, and one brother, James Henry Adkins of this city. Funeral services were held Friday Morning at the home at Van Lear with the Rev. S.C. Honeycutt officiating. Burial was made in the Van Lear Club House Cemetery under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAY 9, 1956
HUGHES, Fannie
1908-1956
Fannie Hughes Dies Suddenly Of Heart Attack
Fannie Hughes 48, owner and operator of Hughes Grocery, Bridgeford, was found dead Sunday morning at her home in Bridgeford.  It is believed that she suffered a heart attack Saturday night as she was preparing for bed. The daughter of Robert Hughes and the late Mrs. Elizabeth Castle Hughes, she was born April 30, 1908, in this county. She had been a resident of Bridgeford for a number of years. She is survived by a son, Jack Raymond Preston, city, and a grandson, Ronnie Preston. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the Thealka Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. Walter Hooper officiating. Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in  the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 05-23-1956
KIMBLER, Nervie (Brown)
1881-1956
Mrs. Nervie Kimbler, 84, died May 21 at 6:00 a.m. at her home, following an illness of two years. Born March 18 1881, she was the daughter of Henry and Peggy Baldridge Brown. Mrs Kimbler had been a resident of Sitka all her life, and was affilited with the Church of Christ. Mrs. Kimbler is survived by her husband, Lonzo Kimbler, fours sons, Ed, Dave, Lonnie, and Vonnie Osborne, Columbus, Ohio; five daughters, Lydia Chandler, Beaver, Ohio; Dollie Dixon, Sitka; Beulah May, Weldwood, Ohio; Lou Welch, Springfield, Ohio; and Betty Charles, of Phelps. Also surviving, Mrs. Kimbler is one brother, Andre Brown, Sitka, and one sister, Lou Scarberry, Nippa; 75 grandchildren and 64 great grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted May 23 at the Sitka Church of Christ, with the Revs. J.H. Short and Homer Picklesimer, officiating. Burial was in the Family Cemetery at Sitka.
LYONS, Roy Mitchell
1956
RITES THURSDAY FOR RIVER YOUTH ROY MITCHELL LYONS
SUCCUMBS TUESDAY, VICTIM OF CANCER
Roy Mitchell Lyons 18 year old son of Bert and Margie Ward Lyons of River, KY, died Tuesday morning May 29, 1956, at his home following an illness of four years.  Death attributed to cancer. He was a student at Meade Memorial High School prior to his illness. Surviving besides his parents, are his maternal grandmother, Mrs. Maudie Ward, four brothers, James Robert, Charles Arthur,  Dennis Ray, and Larry Keith all at home, and two sisters, Mrs. Alberta Buckley, Massillon, OH., and Anna Louise Lyons at home. Funeral services were held at the home Thursday, May 31 with Cully Sparks, Leonard Walters and Florida Lyons as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Ward Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-13-1956
Roy Mitchell Lyons, 18 year old son of Bert and Margie Ward Lyons of River, KY., died at his home May 29, 1956, a victim of cancer following an illness of four years. Surviving are his parents, four brothers, two sisters, and maternal grandmother, Mrs. Maudie Ward. Burial was in the family cemetery at River, KY. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-13-1956
MCKENZIE, Verna
1903-1956
VOLGA WOMAN DIES SUNDAY SERVICES TOMORROW FOR MRS.VERNA MCKENZIE
Mrs. Verna McKenzie, wife of Beldon McKenzie of Volga, died at her home Sunday morning folllowing an illness of several months. The daughter of Alva and Belle Salyer Lemaster, she was born November 12, 1903, at Flat Gap. She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving besides her husband, are two sons, Sgt. James A. McKenzie, U.S. Army, San Francisco, California, and Billy McKenzie at home; six daughters, Mrs. Clayton MAggard, Hager Hill; Mrs. Ralph Murrell and Mrs. Edgel Conley, both of Volga; Mrs. Frankie McKenzie, Springfield, Ohio; and Wilma Jean and Dorothy Irene McKenzie both at home. Also surviving are three brothers, Harry Lemaster, Flat Gap; Bruce Lemaster, West Liberty; and Luther Lemaster, Flat Gap; and three sisters, Mrs. James A. Curtis, Miss Mary Lemaster and Miss Lexie Lemaster, all of Flat Gap. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 Thursday morning at the home of her sister, Mary Lemaster, Flat Gap, with Tommy Bailey and Lonza Reed officiating.  Burial will be made in the Lemaster Cemetery at Flat Gap under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 5-30-1956
MUSIC, Edith Marie (Mollett)
1956
Former Resident Dies Wednesday In West Virginia
Rites At Boons Camp For Mrs. Homer Music
Mrs. Edith Marie Music, 32, wife of Homer Music of Towncliff, W. Va., formerly of this county, died in the Stevens Clinic, Welch, W. Va.,  Wednesday, May 9, after an illness of two years.  Death was attributed  to cancer. The daughter of Mrs. Verlie Mollett, Boons Camp, and the late John  Frank Mollett, she had been a resident of Towncliff for nine years.   She was a member of the Free Will Baptist Church. Surviving besides the husband are four sons, Ralph Gordon Mollett,  Herbert Ray, Troy Lewis and Clarence Edward Music, all at home, and  one daughter, Ruby Francis Mollett, Towncliff, W. Va. Also surviving are four brothers, Lafe Mollett, Jr., Mansfield, Ohio;  Ralph Mollett, Columbus, Ohio; Delmar Mollett, Tomahawk, Ky., and King  Hayes Mollett, U. S. Army, France, and one sister, Mrs. Martha Jane  Collins, Tomahawk, Ky. Funeral services were held Saturday at the home of Eliza Mullins,  Boons Camp, with the Rev. Leon Nunley officiating. Burial was made in the Music Cemetery at Boons Camp under the  direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 16, 1956
MUSIC, Laura B. (Hager)
1873-1956
May 16, 1956
Mrs. Laura B. Music, 83, of Hager Hill, one of Johnson County’s most respected women, died Thursday afternoon, May 10, 1956, at her home after an extended illness  She had been in ill health following a fall several years ago, but her condition became worse about three months ago.   Death was attributed to complications. She was the daughter of the late Daniel Mart and Elizabeth Hager Music, members of  a prominent pioneer family of this section. Born March 3, 1873, she had lived her entire life in this county.  On April 1, 1893, she was married to Martin Music who died on October 24, 1938. The early years of her married life were spent at the Music farm on the river below East Point, but she moved with her family to the Hager Hill locality about 33 years ago.  Her daughter, Mrs. Leota Derossett, head resided with her during her lengthy illness. Mrs. Music was a member of the Church of Christ and was active in the work of the church until illness prevented her attendance. Surviving are three sons, D. Mart Music and John B. Music, both of East Point, William Music, Ketz, two daughters, Mrs. Leota M. Doressett, at home and Mrs. Elizabeth  M. Ashley of Louisville. Three sisters, Mrs. Rhoda Patrick, Portland, Ore, Mrs. Fannie Greenwade, Prestonsburg, Ky., and Mrs. May Smith, Omak, Wash., also ten grandchildren and eleven great- grandchildren. A daughter, Mrs. Mary Lester and an infant son preceded her in death. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, May 13, 1956 at the East Point Church of Christ with the Rev. S. C. Honeycutt officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery near East Point under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. OBITUARY  Mrs. Laura B. Music, wife of the late Martin Music, succumbed at her  home at East Point on Thursday, May 10, at 1:18 P. M. after an illness  of three months. She was the daughter of the late Daniel Mart Hager and Elizabeth May  Hager.  She was born March 5, 1873 at Hager Hill, Kentucky.  Mrs.  Music died at the age of 83 years, 2 months and 5 days. She was married to Martin Music on April 12, 1893, and to this union  were born seven children.  The late May Lester, D. Mart Music of East  Point, John C. B. Music of East Point, Leota M. Deossett of East Point,  Elizabeth M. Ashley, Louisville, Kentucky, Willie H. Music, Kerz,  Kentucky and Wilbur H. Music, deceased.  She is also survived by three  sisters, Mrs. Rhoda Patrick, Portland, Oregon, Mrs. Scott Smith, Omak,  Washington, Mrs. Fannie Greenwade, Cliff, Kentucky, ten grandchildren,  and eleven great-grandchildren, and numerous other relatives and  friends. She lived a long and devoted Christian life and was a great  inspiration of faith to all who talked with her.  Realizing her  dependence in the Supreme Being, her prayers were numerous and this is  one of her favorite prayers which she adopted. "OTHERS" Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 16, 1956
MUSIC, Loretta
1956
Music Child Struck By Car Dies Sunday
Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at the Church of Christ, Meally, for Loretta Music, three year-old daughter of Clyde and Emma Cornett Music of Meally, who died Sunday morning May 6 1956, from injuries received in an accident Friday evening. The child suffered head injuries Friday when she ran into the path of a car driven by Mrs.Samuel Moore, 26, Mc Clure, Martin County, Ky. The accident occurred 3.6 miles East of Paintsville, on Ky. 40  near the Music home. Surviving besides the parents are three brothers, Scotty, John Wayne and Clyde Music Jr., and three sisters, Patricia, Dienta and Greta Music, all at home. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Meally under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD MAY 9 1956
PENIX, Fanny (Pack)
1956
County Woman Passes Thursday Rites Held Sunday for Mrs. Fanny Penix
Funeral services were held Sunday morning at the Friendship Church, Williamsport, for Mrs. Fanny Pack Penix, 83, who died Thursday afternoon following an illness of five days. Born at Williamsport, she was the daughter of the late Barley and Mary Sellards Pack.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Her husband, Elias Penix, preceded her in death May 9, 1923. Surviving are two sons, John Penix and Hobart Penix, both of Williamsport, one daughter, Mrs. Earl Muncy, Williamsport, 12 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Williamsport under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 5-9-1956
PICKLESIMER, Dorman
1887-1956
Death Takes Retired Teacher And C & O Clerk Dorman Picklesimer Passes May 27
Dorman Picklesimer, 68, of West Van Lear, died at 10:55 a.m., Sunday, May 27, in a local hospital after and illness of three days. Mr. Picklesimer, a former teacher in the Johnson County schools and clerk of the C & O Railroad Company, was one of the county's most respected citizens. He was  a member of the West Van Lear Missionary Baptist Church and was active and deeply interested in the work of the church. Born on September 17, 1887, he was the son of the later John Henry and Minerva Jane Watkins Picklesimer.  He had resided in Johnson County all his life and had moved to the West Van Lear locality about 19 years ago. He was married to Miss Rebecca Slone who survives.  Also surviving are six sons: Roma Picklesimer, Clifton Forge, Va., Hershel Picklesimer, Berlin Center, Ohio, Clifford Picklesimer, South Charles Town, W. Va., Billy Joe Picklesimer, Columbus, Ohio, Dorman Picklesimer, Jr. and Isaac Paul Picklesimer, both of West Van Lear; five daughters, Mrs. Neva Harter, Columbus, Ohio, Mrs. Edna Dietrich, Ironton, Ohio, Mrs. Jean Spears, Columbus, Ohio, Miss Minerva Picklesimer, South Charles Town, W. Va., and Mrs. Mary Hampton, Prestonsburg, Ky. And two brothers, Maurice and Emerson Picklesimer, Port Orange, Fla.  He also leaves 13 grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 29, at the Missionary Baptist Church at West Van Lear by the Reverend Ora Slone. Pallbearers were Argus Vance, Rennie Salyers, Johnny Sammons, Bob Auxier, James W. Trimble and Paul Butcher. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Hager Hill under the direction of the James and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald  5/30/1956 
POWERS, James
1956
Wreck Tuesday Kills Foreman Of Ashland Oil Powers Dies Of Injuries;
Harmon's Condition Reported Satisfactory Two men were injured, one fatally, in a highway accident which occurred about 7:30 Tuesday morning near Falcon, 4.3 miles east of Salyersville. James Powers, Oil Springs, a foreman for Ashland Oil and Refining Company, died in a local hospital about an hour later from head injuries. Arthur Harmon, 27, Barnett's Creek, a roustabout for Ashland Oil, sustained a fractured skull, cuts and bruises.  His condition was reported as satisfactory by hospital attendants. The men were traveling towards Salyersville in a 1954 Willys half-ton truck with Powers driving when the accident occurred. According to State Trooper Jack Music, the truck slid on a wet, oily pavement, hit an abutment and plunged over an embankment, landed on its top in a creek. The door of the truck had to be removed before the men could be reached, it was reported. Powers is survived by his wife and one son, Melvin Powers, a teacher in the county schools and co-owner of the Tiger Drive-In and the Family Store. Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 23, 1956
PRESTON, Lafe
1885-1956
Rites Saturday For County Man Lafe Preston, 71, Dies Following Long Illness
Lafe Preston, 71, retired merchant and farmer of Meally, died Thursday May 24 1956, in a local hospital following an illness of several months. The son of the late Jim Clayton and Clista Ward Preston, he was born January 26, 1885, in Johnson County. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. He was married in 1906 to Bessie Music who preceded him in death in 1925. He later married Gracie Dalton Price who survives. Also surviving are three sons, Tom and Luther Preston, both of Meally, and Sam Preston, Fairborn, Ohio; six daughters, Mrs. Reggie Preston, Meally; Mrs. Earl Haney, Mrs. Virgil Childers, Mrs. Russell Williamson, Mrs. George Muncy, and Mrs. Woodrow Hart, all of Fairborn, Ohio; one brother, Sammie Preston, Meally; 30 grandchildren, and 15-great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Saturday morning at the Little Friendship Church with Glen, Flem and Leonard Arrowood officiating, and Sunday morning at the Buffalo Church with Leonard Walters and Sandy Phillips as  officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Meally under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD MAY 30 1956
    
RIVERS, Susan (Holbrook)
1883-1956
Leander Woman Dies Wednesday Services Held Friday For Mrs. Susan Rivers Mrs. Susan May Rivers, 73, died Wednesday, June 6,at the home of her son Herbert May, Leander, following an illness of several weeks. Born May 7, 1883, in Letcher County, she was the daughter of the late Woodford and Nancy Quillen Holbrook.  She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. She was married to Tom May, who preceeded her in death, and later married George Rivers, who also preceded her in death. She is survived by three sons, Herbert May, Leander, George Rivers, Jr., and James H Rivers, both of Leander, two daughters, Mrs. Noah Spradlin, Denver, Ky., and Mrs. Estill Blair, Alvado, Ohio, and one sister, Mrs. Katherine Hannah, Greenup. Funeral services were held Friday morning at the home with Millard Bryant and Etral Baldwin as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-13-1956
ALYER, Sarah (Williams)
1875-1956
FORMER RESIDENT DIES MONDAY RITES HELD AT ASHLAND FOR MRS. W.H. SALYER
Mrs. Sarah Williams Salyer, 81, wife of William H. Salyer of Ashland, died at her home Monday morning after an illness of two years. She was born in Johnson County, January 27, 1875, a daughter of the late Dr. Henderson A. and Melissa Holbrook Williams.  She moved to Ashland ten years ago from Paintsville.  She was a member of the First Methodist Church and the Women’s Society of Christian Service. Surviving are the husband, two daughters, Mrs. H.H. Wheeler, Ashland, and Miss Mary May Salyer at home; one brother, L.N. Williams, Ashland; one sister, Mrs. Robert A. Elam, Ashland, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. today at the Miller Funeral Home, Ashland, Kentucky. Paintsville Herald Wednesday May 16, 1956
SLONE, Yvonne (Music)
1934-1956
SISTERS KILLED IN TRAIN-CAR CRASH IN OHIO
Granddaughters of Nippa Residents Are Victims
Mrs. Billie Jean Deskins of Greenwich, Ohio, and Mrs.Yvonne Slone of Garrett, Ky., were killed instantly in a train and car collision on May 23, 1956, at Greenwich.  They were the granddaughters of Mr. and Mrs. Lum Music and Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Ratliff, all of Nippa.  They were the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. McKinley Music of Greenwich. Mrs. Deskins was born August 3, 1929, at Van Lear, then later moved with her parents to Glo in Floyd County.  She was married to Ernest Deskins who survives.  She also leaves one son, Kenney Kay, aged 9. Mrs. Slone was born July 24, 1934, at Glo and was married to Charlie Slone of Garrett.  She leaves one son, Eddie Ray, aged 5.  Mrs. Slone and Mrs. Deskins are survived by two sisters and six brothers. Both victims were members of the Freewill Baptist Church. Burial was made in the Greenwich Cemetery at Greenwich, Ohio. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-6-1956
SPENCER, Ogie (Collins)
1918-1956
Dies Wednesday Services Held Friday For Mrs. Ogie Spencer
Mrs. Ogie Collins Spencer, 38, wife of Earl Spencer of Collista, died Wednesday morning in a local hospital following an illness of two weeks. Born March 19, 1918, she was the daughter of Eva Collins and the late Shell Collins. She was member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Surviving besides her husband and mother are four sons, Shell, Arnold, James Earl and Larry Spencer all at home, and three daughters, Mrs. Betty Fraley, East Point and Wilma Sue and Patty Spencer at home. Other survivors include three brothers, Ollie Collins, Riceville, Rawleigh and Otto Collins, both of East Point, and four sisters, Mrs. Oma Spencer, Rushtown, OH, Mrs. Ocie Puckett, Bonanza, KY, Mrs. Okie Fraley and Mrs. Elizabeth Fraley, both of East Point. Funeral services were held at the home of her mother at East Point, Friday afternoon with Charlie Lemaster and Vern Conley as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Collins Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAY 23, 1956
SPENCER, Reecie (Montgomery)
1896-1956
Local Woman Passes Friday Heart Attack Fatal To Mrs. Dick Spencer
Mrs. Reecie Montgomery Spencer, 59, wife of Dick Spencer of the Blackberry section of Paintsville, died in a local hospital Friday morning after suffering a heart attack. Born May 20, 1896, in Magoffin County, she was the daughter of Chat and Kathleen Montgomery. She had been a resident of this county for forty years. Surviving besides the husband is one son, George Spencer, city, and two daughters, Mrs. William Poe, Ashtabula, OH and Mrs. Ray Castle, city. Other survivors include two brothers, Matt Montgomery, Emmons City, MI and Tom Montgomery, city, one sister, Mrs. Alice Montgomery, Willard, OH, and one half brother, Ben Tackett, city. Funeral services were held Sunday at the Pentecostal Church with the Rev. Cline Salyer officiating. Burial was made in the Spencer Cemetery at Blackberry under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY MAY 16, 1956
STAPLETON, James W.
1956
JAMES STAPLETON, FORMER RESIDENT, DIES WEDNESDAY
James W. Stapleton,34, died Wednesday, May 30, at his home in West Carrollton,Ohio, following a month's illness. He and his family were former residents of Johnson County. Born at Staffordsville,Ky., he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Stapleton of Beaver,Ohio. He had been a mechanic at Borchers Ford in Dayton for six years and previously employed by Peffley's Ford Garage. He is survive by his parents; his wife Gladie; a sister, Mrs. Edna Mae Pence, West Carrollton; and two brothers,Williard Stapleton, Miamisburg, Ohio, and Arthur Stapleton, Beaver, Ohio. Funeral services were held Saturday, at the home of his brother Williard Stapleton, with the Rev. Robert Newman officiating. Burial was made in the Evergreen Cemetery, in West Carrollton. Paintsville Herald June 6, 1956 
TACKETT, James Frederic
1944-1956
James Tackett Passes Monday
James Frederic Tackett, 12, died in a local hospital Monday following an illness of one day. He was the son of Willie and Maudie VanHoose Tackett of Thelma. He was born March 11, 1944, in Columbus, Ohio.  He is survived by his parents, three sisters, Mrs. Verlie Mae Childers of Martha, Gracie Lee Tackett of Springfield, Ohio, and Ruth Ann Tackett of Louisville; and four brothers, Robert Earl Tackett of Columbus, Ohio, Leroy, Harold Dennis and Raymond Lester Tackett, all at home. Funeral services were conducted at 1:30 p.m. today at the Thelma school with Harry Salyers as officiating minister.  Burial made in the family cemetery at Thelma under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 5-14-1956
WEBB, Walker
1913-1956
Walker Webb, 42, a miner of Van Lear, Ky., died suddenly Friday afternoon May 18 1956 while working in the mines in Letcher County. According to mine officials, death was probably due to suffocation. The son of Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Hughes and the late Frank Webb, he was born September 13 1913, in Lawrence County. He has been a resident of Van Lear for 31 years, where he was a member of the Van Lear Lodge No. 885, F. & A. M. Surviving besides his mother are his wife, Mrs. Blanche Barst Webb, one son, Larry Walker Webb, Van Lear; three daughters, Mary Jo Wells, Cleveland, Ohio; Peggy Ann Webb, Van lear; and Janis Webb, Van lear; and one brother, Laud Webb, Jenkins. Funeral services were held Monday morning at the Van Lear Freewill Baptist Church, with Rev. Edgar Hewlett officiating. Gravesite services were in charge of the Masons. Burial was made in the Wells-Buckingham Cemetery of Paintsville, under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD MAY 23 1956 Death date figured by publication date
WHISMAN, Deretha (Hays)
1924-1956
Whisman Rites Conducted Here Mrs. Deretha Whisman, 32, former resident of this county, died Monday afternoon in Guthrie Hospital, Huntington, W. Va., following an illness of a week. The daughter of Mrs. Pansy Hayes Walters, Huntington W. Va., and the late Henry Hays.  She was born in Johnson County, January 30, 1924.  She had been a resident of Huntington for ten years. She was married to Clarence Castle who was killed in a car accident at Hager Hill nine years ago.  She later married John L. Whisman, who survives. Also surviving besides her husband and mother are two brothers, Major James Hayes, Fort Knox, Ky., and Hobat Hayes, city, and three sisters, Mrs. Burl Ward, Offutt, Ky., Mrs. Kenneth McKenzie, Sitka, and Mrs. Green Burke, Ragland, W, Va. Funeral services were held this morning at the Regar Funeral Home, Huntington. Graveside services, under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home, were held at the Hayes Cemetery, Tutor, Key. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 5-16-1956 Mrs. Deretha Hays Whisman, 32, of Huntington, W. Va., formerly of River, Ky., died at 2:15 p.m. Monday, May 14, in a Huntington Hospital following a short illness. She was born at River, Ky., January 30, 1924, the daughter of Mrs. Pansy Hayes Walters and the late Henry Hayes. She was married to Clarence Castle, Lowmansville in December, 1945.  He died in December, 1946. She was married May 1, 1954 to John Whisman who survives. She lived at River for a number of years and attended Johnson County Schools.  She had been a resident of Huntington for the pasts 10 years, where she was employed as an inspector at Maidenform Brasseire Company.  She was a member of the Paintsville Pleasant Valley Rebekah Lodge. She is survived by her husband, John L. Whisman, her mother, Mrs. Pansy Hayes Walters, Huntington, one brother, Major James H. Hayes, Fort Knox, two sisters, Mrs. Erma Lee Ward, Offutt, Ky., and Mrs. Pauline McKenzie, Cleves, Ohio, one half brother Hobat Hayes, Paintsville, one half sister, Mrs. Virginia Burke, Ragland, W. Va., and her grandmother, Mrs. Julie Murray, Ashland and a host of relatives and friends. The funeral was conducted at the Roger Funeral Chapel, Huntington, at 10:00 a.m., May 16, by the Rev. Richard Kyle.  Burial was made on the Hayes Cemetery at Tutor Key under the direction of the Reger Funeral Home at Huntington and the Paintsville Funeral Home, Paintsville. Pallbearers were Ewell Whisman, Charles Whisman, P. J. Whitman, Jr, Burl Ward and Kenneth McKenzie. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 5-23-1956

JUNE - 1956

BURTON, Charles Kenneth
1931-1956
Services Monday For Thealka Man
Charles Kenneth Burton, 24, Thealka, was killed Friday night when the car he was driving plunged into Dewey Lake near the boat dock at Brandy Keg. Paul Burgess "Buddy" Daniel, 21, nephew of Burton, who was a passenger in the car, escaped serious injury.  He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Daniel of Thealka. Burton, the son of Mrs. Rachel Gibson Burton of Thealka and the late Foster Burton, was born October 18, 1931. He was a graduate of Meade Memorial High School, class of 1950, and had served four years with the United States Air Force.  He was a student at Mayo State Vocational School and a member of the Paintsville baseball team. Surviving besides his mother are five brothers: John and Clifford Burton of Thealka, James F. and Lawrence Burton of Hamilton, Ohio, and Herbert Burton, Pikeville, and four sisters, Mrs. Mitchel Daniel, Mrs. Dennis Daniel and Mrs. Arnold Young, all of Thealka, and Mrs. Worth Goble, Pikeville. Funeral services were held Monday morning at the home at Thealka with the Rev. Walter Hooper, Claude Preston and C. C. Hall officiating. Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the Wells-Buckingham Cemetery in Bridgeford under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. This is the first accident in the lake area this year. Paintsville Herald Wednesday July 4, 1956
CASTLE, Allen
1956
CASTLE CHILD DIES AFTER LONG ILLNESS
Allen Castle, 3 1/2-year-old son of James and Vivian McCloud Castle of this city, died Friday at St. Mary's Hospital, Huntington, W.Va., following a lingering illness. He is survived by his parents, six sisters, Mrs. Shirley Ann Calvert, Mrs. Mary McGown and Mrs. Betty Jackson, all of Dayton, Ohio, and Linda, Malta, and Patsy Castle, all at home, and five brothers, Roger, James, Charles, Robert and William Castle, all at home. Funeral services were held Sunday at Rockhouse with the Rev. Claude Preston officiating.  Music was by the Sitka Singers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Turner Branch under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. The pallbearers were Richard Castle, Raymond Castle, A.L. VanHoose and Bill McCloud. Paintsville Herald Wednesday June 13, 1956
CRAFT, Jimmy
1956
INJURIES FATAL TO JIMMY CRAFT, CHARLES NELSON, CITY,
DRIVER OF TRUCK WHICH KILLED CHILD
Jimmy Craft, 7 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. George Craft of Little Paint Creek, was fatally injured Thursday morning when struck by a truck soon after he and other children had left their homes to attend vacation Bible school at Church of God in the Porter Addition. Charles Nelson, Paintsville, shop foreman for the Valley Motor Company of Prestonsburg, was the driver of the truck which hit the child. No formal charges was filed against Nelson. State Troopers who investigated the accident stated that the children came down a path on the driver’s left side of US 23 in the vicinity of Fetty’s Meat Market on Little Paint and that the Craft child was on the driver’s right side of the road.  The truck it was stated skidded 45 feet before hitting the child and about 75 feet afterward. A motorist took the child accompanied by Nelson, to the Prestonsburg General Hospital but the child was dead on arrival, it was said.  Head and internal injuries resulted in his death. State Troopers said the path followed by the children onto the highway was grown up in weeds to such an extent that Nelson’s view was obstructed. Surviving besides the parents are seven brothers and sisters, Mrs. Phylllis Joseph, Van Lear, Donald Craft, Prestonsburg, Johnny Lee, George William, Mary Helen, Doris Jean and Kenneth Ray all at home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-20-1956
GEORGE, Julia Catherine (Davis)
1867-1956
JULIA CATHERINE DAVIS GEORGE ULYSSES WOMAN PASSES FRIDAY
Services Held Sunday For Mrs. Julia C. George Mrs. Julia Catherine George, 88, died Friday evening at the Ulysses, Ky., home of her son, Will, following an illness of a month. She was born December 1, 1867, in Richardson, Ky., a daughter of the late Joseph and Edith Borders Davis.  Mrs. George, a resident of Ulysses for 60 years, was the widow of Jessie George. Surviving are four sons, Will, Ulysses; Edward, Route 1, Louisa; Joseph, Louisa, and Omar, Columbus, Ohio; two sisters, Mrs. Effie Davis, Ulysses and Mrs. John George of Georges Creek; two brothers, R.B. Davis, Richardson, and Walter Davis, Route 1, Louisa; 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. The funeral was held at the home of her son, Will, at 2:00 p.m. Sunday with the Rev. Scott Griffith officiating. Paintsville Herald Wednesday June 27, 1956
HOWARD, Stephen
1883-1956
HEART ATTACK FATAL TO STEPHEN HOWARD
Stephen Howard, 73, Elna, Ky., a retired oil worker and farmer, died suddenly of a heart attack at his home Friday, June 1, 1956. The son of the late Thomas and Lydia Gullett Howard, he was born March 11, 1883, in Magoffin County.  He was a member of the United Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Merzie Howard, six sons, M/Sgt. Joe Howard, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, Hollie and Harold Howard both of Fairborn, Ohio, Douglas Howard, Cynthiana, Ky., Paul Howard, Meally, Ky., and Mack Howard, Elna, Ky., and three daughters, Mrs. Robert Williams, Ashland, Mrs. A. C. VanHoose, South Vienna, O., and Mrs. Darrell Burcher, Win, Ky. Funeral services were held Tuesday, June 5, 1956 afternoon at the Win United Baptist Church with Lonza Reed, Kendrick Blanton, Tommy Bailey and Oscar McCarty as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Lemaster Cemetery at Win under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY JUNE 6 1956
JENKINS, William Ira
1878-1956
County Man Passes Sunday Brief Illness Fatal To William Ira Jenkins, Stambaugh Farmer
William Ira Jenkins, 78, well-known farmer of Stambaugh, Ky., succumbed Sunday in a local hospital following an illness of two days. Born May 2, 1878, he was the son of the late Harvey and Manda Burns Jenkins. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife, Rosa Cooke Jenkins, two sons, Ballard Jenkins and Thurman Jenkins, both of Mechanicsburg, Ohio, and six daughters, Mrs. Arzie Sturgill, Jenkins, Ky., Mrs. Walter Sturgill, Baltimore, Maryland, Mrs. Harry Mahan, Barnetts Creek, Mrs. Clarence Davis, Barnetts Creek, Mrs. Bob Gumbo, Baltimore, Maryland, and Mrs. Amanda Oliver, Ypsilanti, Michigan. Also surviving are two brothers Clinton Jenkins, Columbus, Ohio, and Edd Jenkins, Falcon, Ky., and three sisters, Mrs. Sarah Caudill, Falcon, Ky., Mrs. Minta Tackett, Ashland, and Mrs. Lou Cantrell, Greenup., Ky. Funeral services were held today at the Barnetts Creek United Baptist Church with Foster Rigsby, Prater Blair, Florida Lyons and Lonza Reed as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-6-1956
LUCIUS, Arthur Preston
1956
ARTHUR PRESTON LUCIUS SUCCUMBS WEDNESDAY IN MEMPHIS HOSPITAL
Arthur Preston Lucius, four year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lucius of Memphis, Tn., died Wednesday, June 13, 1956 at a hospital in that city. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. H.H. Newsome, pastor of St. Matthews Methodist Church, in Memphis. Burial was made in the Preston Cemetery in Paintsville Saturday under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. The Rev. H.C. Holland, pastor of the Johnson County Parish read the committal service at the gravesite. Pallbearers were Dr. Charles L. Preston, uncle of the deceased; Dr. Howard Meade, Mr. James E. Ward of Portsmouth, Ohio, and Mr. Robelle Williams of Memphis. Out of town friends and relatives attending the funeral were, Mrs. Hopkins Preston, grandmother of the child, the Rev. and Mrs. James Lucius, Miss Jeanette Clemmons, Mr. and Mrs. Robelle Williams and daughter all of Memphis; Miss Stella Ward of Jackson, Tn; Mr. and Mrs. A.M. Ward and Mr. James E. Ward of Portsmouth, Oh; Mr. and Mrs. S. J. Lockwood and Dr. and Mrs. George R. Preston,  of Catlettsburg. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-20-1956
LYONS, Anna Margaret (Fyffe)
1889-1956
AUTO ACCIDENT IN INDIANA FATAL TO LOCAL WOMAN SERVICES HELD FRIDAY FOR MRS. JAMES LYONS
Mrs. Anna Margaret Lyons, 67, succumbed, Tuesday, June 19, 1956, in a local hospital from injuries received in an automobile accident four days earlier. The daughter of the late James and Susan Ferguson Fyffe she was born March 21, 1889, at Red Bush. She had been a resident of Columbus, Ohio for four years. She was preceded in death February 29, 1936, by her husband, James Lyons. Surviving are six sons, Earl Lyons, Blaine, KY, Carl Lyons, Marion, IN., Elza Lyons, James Lyons, Fred Lyons and Lloyd Lyons, all of Columbus, Oh; one daughter Mrs. Ruby Manley, Wabash, IN, 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Also surviving are the following brothers and sisters, Mrs. Plura Bailey, Flat Gap, Mrs. Lydia Wright, Keaton, Mrs. Beulah Hill, Relief, Mrs. Lexie Ferguson, Moon, KY., Noah Fyffe, Portsmouth, OH., Mrs. Goidia Kelly, Ashland, Mrs. Hood Wailin, Keaton, and Shelby Fyffe, Blaine. Funeral Services were held Friday at the Red Bush Enterprise Baptist Church with the Revs. Hood Wallin and Emory Ferguson officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Keaton under the direction of the Preston Funeral home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-27-1956
MILLER, Rachel (Rowe)
1872-1956
Ulysses Woman Passes Sunday Services Today For Mrs. Rachel Miller
Mrs. Rachel Howe Miller, 84, succumbed Sunday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Delia Simpson, Ulysses, KY, after an illness of two months. The daughter of the late Jesse and Beca Caudill Rowe, she was born in Rowan County, KY, March 29, 1872. Prior to moving to Ulysses two years ago, she was a resident of West Van Lear. She was preceded in death by her husband August 31, 1946. Surviving are three sons, Davie Miller, Aberdeen, OH and Albert and George Miller, Hitchins, KY, five daughters, Mrs. Ada Cox, Pedro, OH, Mrs. Della Simpson, Ulysses, KY, Mrs. Lula VanHoose, Mrs. Morgan Fields and Mrs. Amanda Greer, all of Hitchins, KY; two brothers, James and Davie Rowe, Morehead, KY and two sisters, Mrs. Martha Blanken-beckley and Mrs. Sara Ann McDaniels, both of Morehead. Funeral services were held today at the home of her brother, George Miller, Hitchins, KY, with the Rev. William Parsons officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Hitchins under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY JUNE 13, 1956
MUSIC, Josephine (Patrick)
1883-1956
COUNTY WOMAN PASSES JUNE 13
Funeral Services Saturday For Widow Of Andrew Music
Mrs. Josephine (Josie) Music, 72, of East Point, died Wednesday in a local hospital after a lenghty illness. Mrs. Music had been in ill health for several years., but her condition become critical three months ago. One of the most respected women of the East Point locality, she was a devoted Christian mother, and a good neighbor. Of "Aunt Josie" it can truly be said that she was a good woman. Born August 28 1883, she was a daughter of the late Noah and Cardilia Franklin Patrick of Johnson County. She was married on September 1 1898 to James Andrew Music who passed away thirteen years ago. She was affiliated with the Church of Christ. Surviving are three sons, Heber Music, with whom she made her home; Jake Music, Hager Hill; Harry B. Music, Royalton; eight grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Also surviving are one brother, Kay Patrick, Meally; and three sisters, Mrs. Laura George, Orlando Fla.; Mrs. Celia Selvage, Prestonsburg; and Mrs. Mollie Hite, City; Two grandchildren preceded her in death. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 16, at the East Point Church of Christ by Reverend S.C. Honeycutt. Music was by the Tom's Creek singers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at East Point under direction of the Jones-Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Jun.20 1956
REED, Elizabeth (Gullett)
1865-1956
AGED RESIDENT DIES SUNDAY
Services Held Today For Mrs. Elizabeth Reed
Mrs. Elizabeth Reed, 91, Manila, one of Johnson County’s oldest and most beloved residents, died at her home Sunday night following an illness of several months. A member of the United Baptist Church, she was born May 9, 1865, the daughter of the late Ira and Lydia Pelphrey Gullet. She was preceded in death in 1935 by her husband, Asa J. Reed. Surviving are two sons, Frank Reed, Manila, and Lonra Reed, Flat Gap, and two daughters, Malta Reed and Dorothy Reed, both of Manila. Funeral services were held today at the Fish Trap United Baptist Church with Foster Rigsby, Oscar McCarthy and Tommy Bailey as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Manila under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday June 6 1956
REED, Sarah (McCloud)
1914-1956
COUNTY WOMAN PASSES JUNE 25
Services Thursday For Mrs. Sarah Reed Of Boons Camp
Mrs. Sarah McCloud Reed, 41, lifelong resident of Boons Camp, died in a local hospital Monday, June 25, following an illness of ten months.  Death was attributed to cancer. The daughter of Mary Wallen McCloud and the late Albert McCloud, she was born September 1, 1914. She was preceded in death June 17,  1955 by her husband, Dave Reed. Surviving besides her mother are six sons, Charles Blevins, Earnest Lee Blevins, James Roy Blevins, Hobert Blevins, Isaac Mollett and Albert Ray Mollett, all of Boons Camp, and one daughter, Louveda Reed, Boons Camp. Also surviving are one brother, Elijah McCloud, Boons Camp, two half-brothers, Newt Music and Shade Music, both of Boons Camp, and three half-sisters, Mrs. Roma Mullins, Boons Camp, Mrs. Verna Mollett, Weeksbury, and Mrs. Hays Ramey, Van Lear. Funeral services were held Thursday morning at the home of Elijah Mullins at Boons Camp with Melvin Sisco officiating.  Burial was made in the family cemetery at Boons Camp under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY JULY 4 1956
RIVERS, Susan May (Holbrook)
1883-1956
Leander Woman Dies Wednesday Services Held Friday For Mrs. Susan Rivers
Mrs. Susan May Rivers, 73, died Wednesday, June 6,at the home of her son Herbert May, Leander, following an illness of several weeks. Born May 7, 1883, in Letcher County, she was the daughter of the late Woodford and Nancy Quillen Holbrook.  She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. She was married to Tom May, who preceeded her in death, and later married George Rivers, who also preceded her in death. She is survived by three sons, Herbert May, Leander, George Rivers, Jr., and James H Rivers, both of Leander, two daughters, Mrs. Noah Spradlin, Denver, Ky., and Mrs. Estill Blair, Alvado, Ohio, and one sister, Mrs. Katherine Hannah, Greenup. Funeral services were held Friday morning at the home with Millard Bryant and Etral Baldwin as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-13-1956
SPEARS, Martin
1879-1956
MARTIN SPEARS Martin Spears, 77, retired merchant and farmer of West Van Lear, died Tuesday morning, June, 12, 1956, at his home following an illness of six months. The son of the late John and Rena Hannah Spears, he was born February 9, 1879 in Johnson County.  He was a member of the Church of Christ. He was married to Molly Martin Spears who preceded him in death.  He later married Bertha Cumbo, who survives. Surviving besides his wife are two sons, Leon Spears, Van Lear,  and Shirley Spears, Cleveland, Ohio, five daughters, Mrs. Myrtle Richmond, Van Lear, Mrs. Jeanette Webb, West Van Lear, Mrs. Georgia Steinburg, Pittsburgh, Pa., and Mrs. Hazel Goble, Auxier, and Mrs. Eula Ferguson, Los Angeles, California, and one brother, Walter Spears, Van Lear. Funeral services will be held Thursday at the West Van Lear Church of Christ with the Rev. S. C. Honeycutt officiating. Burial will be made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-13-1956
SPRADLIN, Zollie
1935-1956
PFC. Zollie Spradlin Killed In Germany
Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Spradlin of West Van Lear have received word that their son, Pfc. Zollie (Pete) Spradlin was killed in Germany June 11, while driving a military vehicle. The body is expected to arrive in the States Thursday with his brother, Pfc. Robert Spradlin, acting as escort. The Preston Funeral Home will be in charge of the funeral arrangements. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 6-20-1956 Services Friday For Soldier Killed In Europe Pfc. Zollie Spradlin Dies From Injuries Received June 11 Funeral services were held at the West Van Lear Church of Christ Friday, July 6, for Pfc. Zollie “Pete” Spradlin, 21, who was killed June 11 in an accident in Germany. According to word received here, Spradlin received multiple injuries when the vehicle he was driving struck a tree in an attempt to pass a large German truck on a narrow road. He was stationed with the 97th Signal Battalion at Koblenz, Germany. The son of Oliver and Mandy Pelphrey Spradlin of West Van Lear, he was born April 4, 1935, at Van Lear. He was a graduate of Meade Memorial School, class of 1954, and attended Sunday School at the Church of Christ at West Van Lear.  He entered service October 18, 1954. Surviving besides his parents are one brother, Pfc. Robert Spradlin, Rangensburg, Germany, Mrs. Margaret Ratliff, West Van Lear, two nieces and one nephew. Burial was made in the Blair Cemetery at West Van Lear under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 7-11-1956
WARD, Freddie
1937-1956
Accident Fatal to Freddie Ward, Former Resident
Freddie Ward, 18, former resident of River, Ky., died June 13, of a fractured skull in an accident at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana. According to reports received here, young Ward who was working on the engine of a plane dropped a screwdriver and as he bent over to recover it fell on his head on a concrete runway. The son of Fred and Mable Walters Ward of Welch, W. Va., he was born September 23, 1937, at Freeburn, Ky.  He had been a member of the Air Force for two years. Surviving besides the parents are four brothers, Johnny Earl, Roma Jay, Thomas Jarrell and James Allen, all at home, and four sisters, Mrs. Clyde Sheppard, Honeybrook, Pennsylvania, and Elizabeth Ann, Maxie Louise and Virginia Sue at home. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the home of Forest Preston at River with Cully sparks as officiating minister. Burial was made in the Ward Cemetery at River under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald 6-20-1956
WILLIAMS, Willie H.
1889-1956
WILLIE WILLIAMS DIES SATURDAY AT OIL SPRINGS
SERVICES HELD MONDAY FOR PROMINENT CITIZEN
Willie H. Williams, 67, prominent Johnson County citizen, died Saturday morning at his home at Oil Springs following an illness of five years.  Death was attributed to a stroke. The son of the late Thomas and Mary Hamilton Williams, he was born December 12, 1889 at Mine Fork, Ky. He had been a resident of Oil Springs for forty years, where he was a member of the Methodist Church. A clerk on the draft board, during World War I, he was for several years a merchant at Oil Springs and a teacher in the Johnson County school system     In recent years he was manager of the Sandy Valley Grocery Company in Charleston, W. Va. and Prestonsburg, Ky., and the Davis Wholesale Company in Charleston. He is survived by his wife, Virgie Collins Williams, two sons, Stanley and James Williams, both of Charleston W. Va., and one brother, Hollie Williams, Ashland. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Oil Springs Methodist Church with the Revs. H. B. Holland and W. F. Pettus, officiating. Burial was made at the family cemetery at Oil Spring under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Pallbearers were his nephews. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 6-6-1956
WILLIAMSON, Eliza (Cline)
1880-1956
PASSES TUESDAY SERVICES HELD THURSDAY FOR ELIZA WILLIAMSON
Mrs Eliza Cline Williamson, 76, a lifelong resident of Tomahawk, Ky., died Tuesday afternoon in a Huntington hospital following an illness of one month. The daughter of the late Jake and Martha Setser Cline, she was born May 6, 1880.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, James A. Williamson. Surviving are three sons, Russell Williamson, presidnet of the Kentucky Athletic Association, Inez, Ky.; Herbert Williamson, Tomahawk, Ky., and Thomas Williamson of Inez, five daughters, Mrs. Virgie Porter and Mrs. B. W. Cassady, both of Inez; Mrs. Virgil Marcum, Kermit, W. Va., Mrs. Allen Cassady, Waynesboro, Va.., and Mrs. William R. Pierce, Richmond, Va., and one brother, Grover Cline, Tomahawk. Funeral services were held Thursday, June 14, (1956) at the home with James Grayson as officiating minister. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Tomahawk under the direction of the Richmond- Callihan Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 6-20-1956
WILSON, Rev. R.T.
1892-1956
REV. R. T. WILSON,FATHER OF LOCAL MAN, DIES SUDDENLY
The Reverend R. T. Wilson, 64, pastor of the Fullerton Methodist Church, and father of Paul A.Wilson, former manager of the Kroger store here, died suddenly, Sunday at his home.  He had suffered a heart attack several hours earlier. Rev. WIlson had served in the ministry for 32 years and for a number of years was pastor of the Raceland Methodist Church. He was born at Tyrone, Ky., September 2, 1892, a son of the late John W. and Sue Etta Wilson. Surviving besides his wife, Mrs. Lydia Wilson, are one son, Paul A. Wilson, of this city; three daughters, Mrs. M. K. Wilson of Barbourville, Mrs. D. R. Ferris, Ashland, and Mrs.John W. Cline of Ashland. Funeral services were conducted at the Fullerton Methodist Church by the Rev. S. C. Rice, of Lexington, and burial was in Golden Oaks Cemetery at Ashland. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 6-13-1956

JULY - 1956

ADAIR, America (Hines)
1885-1956
America Adair Passes Thursday
Services Held Sunday For Former Resident
Funeral services were held at the Third Street Freewill Baptist Church Sunday afternoon for America Adair, 70, who died Thursday in a Dayton, Ohio, hospital following an illness of five months. She had been a resident of Dayton, Ohio for fourteen years. The daughter of the late Joel and Myra Dishman Hines, she was born December 14, 1885 in Wayne County, Ky.  She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. She was married to Willie Adair who preceded her in death January 17, 1940. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Corbett Elliott, Dayton, O., Mrs. Jeff Allen, city and four grandchildren. Officiating at the services were the Rev. Claude Preston and the Rev. Harry Bruce Daniel. Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the Wells-Buckingham Cemetery under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday July 18, 1956
BOWE, Lou (Witten)
1881-1956
Mrs. Lou Bowe of Wittensville Passes Monday
Services Held Thursday for County Resident
Mrs. Lou Bowe, 75, a lifelong resident of Wittensville, died in a local hospital Monday afternoon following an illness of four days. Born June 22, 1881, at Nippa, she was the daughter of the late W. N. and Nancy Ann Alley Witten. She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. She was preceded in death July 26, 1950, by her husband, Billy Bowe. Surviving are two daughters, Bessie Bowe, Wittensville, and Mrs. Elpha Rice, Garrett, one brother Argales Witten, Wittenville, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Thursday at the Mouth of Rush Freewill Baptist church with Claude Preston, c. c. Hall, and Harry Salyers as officiating ministers. Music will be by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial will be made in the family cemetery at Wittensville under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 7-11-1956
BUTLER, Lyda (Spears)
1878-1956
MRS. GUS BUTLER PASSES MONDAY AFTER LONG ILLNESS
SERVICES HELD TODAY FOR RESIDENT OF RIVER
Mrs. Lyda Spears Butler, 78, lifelong resisdent of River, Ky., died Monday in a local hospital following an illness of several months. The daughter of the late P.D. and Latania Walters Spears, she was born July 1, 1878.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church. She was married to Gus Butler who preceded her in death in January, 1956. Surviving are four sons, George W. Butler, Detroit, Mich., Clyde M. Butler and Robert P. Butler, both of Grand Rapids, Mich., and Estill L. Butler, Johnstown, Pa.; two daughters, Miss Eva Lee Butler, River, and Mrs. Robert CArney, Washington, D.C.; three brothers, Everett Spears,, Coal Grove, Ohio, Ham Spears, Ashland, and T.J. Spears, Cashmere, Washington; and one sister, Mrs. Russell Baker, Ashland. Funeral services were held this afternoon at the River United Baptist Church with F.F. Figsby, C.M. Sparks and Grover Fannin as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery in River under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 7-25-1956
COLLINS, Goldia (Spradlin)
1914-1956
Local Woman Passes Friday Servcies Held Sunday For Mrs. Jess Collins
Mrs. Goldia Spradlin Collins, 42, wife of Jess Collins of this city, died at her home Friday evening following an illness of a year. The daughter of Andy and Ida Selvage Spradlin, she was born May 7 1914, in Denver, Ky. She had been a resident of Paintsville for nineteen years. Surviving besides her husband, are one brother, Oliver Spradlin, West Van Lear; and two sisters, Cora Pelphrey, West Van Lear; and Dollie Collins, Melvin, Ky. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the home of Alvin Newson of Melvin, with Troy Caudill and Russell Blevins as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Weeksbury, under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD AUG. 1 1956
COLVIN, Gilbert
1956
Gilbert Colvin Dies Monday In Auto Wreck
Funeral Services Today For Former County Residence
Funeral Services were held at 2:00 p.m. today at the East Point Church of Christ for Gilbert Colvin, 41, of Weeksbury, Ky., who was killed Monday in an automobile accident near Shelbiana. Mr. Colvin was en route to Hager Hill to visit his mother when a tire blowout caused the car in which he was riding to overturn. He died shortly afterward from throat cuts and other injuries. The driver of the automobile was only slightly injured. He was the son of Mrs. Lou Kestner Colvin of Hager Hill and the late Sam Colvin. He resided at East Point for many years where he has many friends. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Cole Colvin, one daughter, Miss Luann Colvin, two sisters, Mrs. Gladys Shay of Detroit, Mich., and Mrs. Dixie Oney of Hager Hill. Two brothers, Leonard Colvin of New Orleans, La., and Woodrow Colvin of Dunham, Ky. One brother, Samuel Colvin, Jr., died in a mine accident about twenty-three years ago. Funeral services were conducted by Reverend S. C. Honeycutt and burial was made in the Hager Hill Cemetery. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Wednesday July 11, 1956
KEEN, Mary (Baker)
1871-1956
MRS. DAVE KEEN OF JOHNS CREEK DIES TUESDAY
Mrs. Mary Baker Keen, 84, wife of Dave Keen of Johns Creek, died at her home Tuesday following an illness of five weeks. Born December 30, 1871, in Dickerson County, Virginia. She was the daughter of the late Willie and Louisa Mullins Baker. She had been a resident of the Johns Creek section for 26 years. She was a member of the Church of Christ. Surviving besides her husband are three sons, Lawson, Carl and Jimmy Keen, all of Van Lear, and two daughters, Mrs. Nora Collins, Van Lear, and Mrs. Christine Bolen, Lexington. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the Philadelphia Church of Christ with the Revs. S. C. Honeycutt and Cecil Sherman officiating. Burial was made in the Clark cemetery at Van Lear under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home.Paintsville Herald Wednesday August 1, 1956
MCKENZIE, Mitchell
1911-1956
SERVICES MONDAY FOR COUNTY MAN
Mitchell McKenzie, 45, Of  Staffordsville, Succumbs  Saturday
Mitchell McKenzie, 45, Staffordsville, an employee of the Paintsville Cleaners and Launndry, died in a local hospital Saturday morning following an illness of two-weeks. The son of the late Dan & Cynthia Brown McKenzie, he  was born May 7, 1911, at Volga, KY. He was preceded in death March 6, 1955, by his wife, Gracie McKenzie. Surviving are two sons, Gerald and Harold McKenzie, both at home, one brother, Bert McKenzie, city, and two sisters, Mrs. Loy Williams, Staffordsville, and Mrs. Millard Salyers, Volga. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Staffordsville United Baptist Church with Lonza Reed, Jim Blanton, and Cully Sparks as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Staffordsville under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday August 1, 1956
MEADE, Infant
1956
Rites Held Wednesday for Meade Infant
Funeral services were held Wednesday, July 18, 1956, at the home of the great-grandmother, Mrs. B. McKenzie, Volga, for the infant son of Sgt. and Mrs. Kenneth Meade of Wichita, Kansas, formerly of Volga. Surviving besides the parents are two sisters, Kris Lynn and Debbie Faye Meade, both at home; Mr. and Mrs. Homer Bradshaw, Louisville, Ky., and the paternal grandmother, Mrs. Georgia Hensler, Louisville. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Volga under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday July 25, 1956
MEEK, Leslie G.
1956
Former Resident Dies Thursday Services Held Saturday for Leslie G. Meek, 49
Leslie G. Meek, 49, died at his home in Burbank, Calif., Thursday, July 12, 1956, following an illness of several months.  He was the son of Davis Meek of Thealka. He had been associated with the Barker Bros. Furniture Co. in California for 11 years.  Before going to California, he was employed for 19 years by Western Union. Mr. Meek was born in Johnson County. He is survived by his father; his wife, Dorothy Meek; four brothers, Earl Meek of Ashland, Thurman and Herman of Lancaster, Ohio, and Sgt. Roma Meek of Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and three sisters, Mrs. J. C. Ward of La Junta, Colo.; Mrs. Harry Gambill of Lancaster, Ohio, and Mrs. Richard Sparks of Thealka. Funeral services were conducted Saturday, July 14, 1956, and burial was made in the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Burbank. Paintsville Herald Wednesday July 18, 1956
MOORE, Plura (Segraves)
1888-1956
MRS. JOHN MOORE PASSES THURSDAY
Services Held Saturday For Skaggs Resident
Mrs. Plura Moore, 66, wife of John Moore of Skaggs, Ky, died at her home Thursday morning, following an illness of nine months.  Death was attributed to cancer. The daughter of the late A. M. and Senn Skaggs Segraves, she was born May 16, 1888, at Barn Rock. She had been a resident of Skaggs, Ky. for six years. She was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church at Skaggs. Surviving the husband are one son, Mart Moore, Blaine, Ky.; two daughters, Mrs. Lula Mae Atone, Lima, Ohio, and Mrs. Verla Faye Segraves, Hilliards, Ohio; one sister, Mrs. Lula Swiney, Lucasville, Ohio; four brothers, Clarence Segraves, Ashland, Lonnie Segraves, Charleston, W. Va., Paris Segraves, Hilliards, Ohio; 20 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Saturday morning, July 21, 1956 at the home with Robie Ferguson, Proctor Lyons, Norvil Vanover and Addie Ferguson as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Lyons Cemetery at Blaine, Ky. under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 7-25-1956
MUSIC, Jim
1915-1956
JIM MUSIC 41 DIES SUDDENLY
Jim Music, 41, died suddenly Tuesday morning of a heart attack at his home on Preston Street. The son of Arch and Rosa Castle Music, he was born May 12 1915, in this county. He was a miner by occupation. Surviving are his wife Mrs. Effie Yates Music, two sons, Kenneth and Bobbie, both at home; two daughters, Linda Joyce and Nancy, both at home; two brothers, Roy Music, Nippa; and Hardy Music, Lima, Ohio; and three sisters, Mrs. Audrey Moore and Mrs. Rachel Scarberry, both of Nippa; and Mrs. Maudie VanHoose of Sitka. Funeral services will be held Thursday morning at 11:00 at the Nippa Freewill Baptist Church. Burial will be made in the Castle Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD AUG.22 1956
PRESTON, Jess W.
1859-1956
Jess W. Preston Former Resident Dies In Inez
Jess W. Preston, 87, Inez, Ky., former resident of this county, died at his home Friday following an illness of several years. The son of the late Eliphas and Elizabeth Ward Preston, he was born June 6 1859. He was a retired carpenter and a member of the United Baptist Church. He was preceded in death in 1952 by his wife, Sarah Williamson Preston. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Lorna Henry, Chatterroy, W. Va.; and Mrs. Saddie Peters, Bluefield, Va.; two brothers, Ernest Preston, Williamsport; and Ballard Preston, Boons Camp; and a number of nieces and nephews living in this city. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Inez United Baptist Church with Avery Preece and Emory Etters as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Saltwell Cemetery at Inez under the direction of the Richmond Callaham Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY JUL.18 1956 
PRESTON, Nora Lee (VanHoose)
1890-1956
Portsmouth Times Monday July 16, 1956
Mrs. Gaylord Preston
Mrs. Nora Lee Preston, 66, wife of Gaylord Preston of Flatwoods on Lucasville, Rt. 4, died at 4:25 a.m. today at Portsmouth General Hospital. She had been critically ill one week.  A resident of the Flatwoods community since 1916, she lived previously in Wheelersburg after coming to Scioto County from Johnson County, KY. Born in Paintsville, KY March 30, 1890, she was a daughter of James and Elizabeth Preston Van Hoose of Lucasville Rt 4. She married Mr. Preston in 1908.  Mrs. Preston was a member of Scioto Valley Grange and was secretary of Scioto County Pomona Grange. She was a member of Candy Run United Baptist Church. Besides her husband and mother, she is survived by a son, Mont of Lucasville, Rt 4; two brothers, Vernor of Lucasville Rt 4 and Spurgeon of Mira Loma, CA; four sisters, Mrs. Ann Nesbitt of Lucasville Rt. 4, Mrs. Bertha Widdig of Warren, Mrs. Mildred Ellis of Clarksburg, WV, and Mrs Jessie Comer of Lucasville, and two grandchildren. Her father, four brothers and two grandchildren preceded her in death. Services will be conducted Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Candy Run Church and burial will be in Lucasville Cemetery directed by McKinley Funeral Home.
SPENCER, Forest, Jr.
1956
FOREST SPENCER, THEALKA MINER, DIES WEDNESDAY
Autopsy Report States Mine Gas Poisoning Is Cause Of Death
Funeral services were held at the Thealka Freewill Baptist Church Saturday morning, July 28, 1956  for Forest Spencer, Jr., 27, Thealka, who succumbed, suddenly Wednesday evening, July 25, 1956. Mr. Spencer, who was employed by a coal company at Thealka, returned to his home after a day’s work and became ill after his evening meal.  He was rushed to a local hospital where he died soon after arrival. According to an autopsy report made by Dr. Edwin T. Thorness of Pikeville, the cause of death was attributed to mine gas poisoning. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Betty Castle Spencer; one son, Jimmie Roger, eight months, and one daughter, Judith Kaye, 4. The Revs. James Lyons and C.C. Hall were in charge of the funeral services and the music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Stambaugh under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY AUG.1 1956
VANHOOSE, John H.
1886-1956
John H. VanHoose, 70, a retired miner of Van Lear, died in a local hospital Saturday morning following an illness of several months. Born May 29 1886, in Lawrence County, he was the son of the late Martin and Millie Swain VanHoose. He was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife, Lou Verna Lyons VanHoose, four sons, Jay VanHoose, Salyersville; Arbie VanHoose, Columbus, Ohio; Proctor VanHoose, city; and Verner VanHoose, Tutor Key; two daughters, Mrs. Alex Music, Van Lear; and Mrs. Ray Castle, Wharton, W. Va.; one brother, Marion VanHoose, and two sisters, Bessie Vance, and Symantha Vance, all of Plain City, Ohio. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Thealka Frwwill Baptist Church with Edgar Hulette, James Lyons, and Don Fraley as officiating ministers. Music was by the Tom's Creek Quartet. Burial was in the family cemetery at Thealka under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY  JUL.18 1956 
WARD, William "Bud"
1873-1956
Rites Wednesday For William Ward
William Andrew “Bud” Ward, 83, died Sunday afternoon at his home at Nippa following a brief illness. Born March 28, 1873, he was the son of the late H. R. and Risie Castle Ward.  He was a lifelong resident of Johnson County. He is survived by his wife, Susie Ward, two sons, Dewey and Ray Ward; two daughters, Mrs. Nellie Whitt and Mrs. Stella Walker; and a step daughter, Mrs. Gypsy Borders.  Seven children preceded him in death. Funeral services were conducted at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 4, at his home with the Revs. Claude Preston and Scott Castle officiating.  Burial was made in the family cemetery at Nippa under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 7-4-1956
WEBB, Fane
1956
MRS, FANE WEBB, ASHLAND CITIZEN, DIES MONDAY
Rites Tuesday At Sitka For Former Resident
Mrs. Fane Webb, 81, a former resident of Johnson County, died Monday morning in an Ashland hospital following an illness of three weeks. Mrs. Webb lived with her son, Earle Stafford, Ashland, also a former resident of Paintsville. She was born at Sitka, Ky., and was a member of the Christian Church. Surviving in addition to the son is a brother, Sonnie Webb, Sitka. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon (July 17, 1956) at the Sitka Church of Christ with the Rev. Leonard Webb officiating. Burial was made in the Webb family cemetery. NOTE: Deathdate figured & entered in this obituary from date of publication. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY JUL.18 1956
WILLIAMS, Charlie
1889-1956
FUNERAL SERVICES HELD JULY 4, FOR RED BUSH MAN CHARLIE WILLIAMS, 67,
FARMER; MERCHANT DIES MONDAY, JULY 2
Funeral services were held Wednesday, July 4, 1956, for Charlie Williams, 67, prosperous Red Bush farmer, who died at 11:30 p.m. Monday. Mr. Williams was one of the county’s most respected citizens and a member of a prominent family.  He had been ill for several months, and was recently removed to a local hospital where his death occurred. Born September 26, 1889, he was the son of the late Dr. Buell Williams and Lydia Reed Williams of Red Bush. He was affiliated with the New Regular Baptist Church. In addition to his farming activities, Mr. Williams was also a merchant of the Red Bush vicinity where he had spent his entire life. In his early life, he was married to Miss Effie Hill, who died in 1949. Surviving are one son, Duel Williams of Red Bush, superintendent of the Foothills Rural Telephone Company at Staffordsville; one daughter, Miss Dixie Williams at home a former teacher in the Johnson Co. Schools and three granddaughters, Carolyn Williams, Marilyn Williams, and Lenora Williams, all of Red Bush. Funeral services were held at the residence and burial was made in the family cemetery at Red Bush under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 7-4-1956
WILLIAMS, Herman
1919-1956
HERMAN WILLIAMS DIES AFTER EXTENDED ILLNESS Herman Williams, 37, well known businessman of this city and son of Mr. And MR. V. S. Williams died Thursday afternoon July 5 1956 following an extended illness Survivors include his wife, Mr. Julia Mary Splane Williams, and four children. Funeral Arrangements are incomplete according to attendants of he Paintsville Funeral Home.
Herman Harold Williams, 37, assistant manager of the Williams Wholesale Grocery Company and prominent in the business life of Paintsville, died Thursday July 5, 1956 at his home in Happy Hollow following an illness of several weeks.  Death was attributed to cancer. Born February 4, 1919, he was the son of Vaughan S. and Nova Jayne Williams He Attended the Paintsville City School and was a graduate of Riverside Military Academy, Gainesville, Georgia. He also attended Eastern State College, Richmond Ky. Mr. Williams entered the Army in May 1944, and was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.  On receiving his discharge he returned to Paintsville where he became associated in the wholesale grocery business with his father. He had many friends through out Johnson County who mourned his passing.  His cheery smile his genial and warm personality won for him a legion of friends and it was often said, “To know him was to love him. He was a member of the Mayo Memorial Methodist Church and a loyal and active member as long as his health permitted. He was married June 25, 1939, to Julia Mary Splane, who survives. Also Surviving beside his wife and parent are three sons, Vincent Stephen, Michael Lindsay and Mark Splane Williams, one daughter, Jeneva Jayne Williams, all at home.  Three brothers, Dr Gerald S Williams, Daytona Beach, Florida, Charles Vaughn Williams, U. S. Army, Fort Bragg, North Carolina and James Paul Williams, City, three sister, Mrs. Leo Nickell, Orlando, Florida, Mrs. Charles Ratliff, Pikeville, and  Mrs. William Kazee, City and his maternal grandmother Mrs. Minnie Jayne, Ashland. Funeral Services were held Saturday afternoon at the Mayo Memorial Methodist Church with the Rev. John Weir, former pastor of the church, officiating.  He wa assisted by the Rev. Charles Dearing, the Rev. W. F Pettus, and the  Rev H. B Helland. Burial was made in the Wells-Buckingham Cemetery under the directions of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Active pallbearers were Bob Montgomery, Bill Hazelrigg, Doug Turner, Ray Meade, J. L Howard, Coke Williams, Edd Redd, Ralph Gibson, J. B. Wells, Jr. J. K. Wells, Russell Kirk, and Lewis Prichard. Honorary Pallbearers were B C Lyon, D. H. Dorton, Dr Paul B. Hall, Harry Davis, John K. Buckingham, Dan Wheeler, C. E. Nichol, J. H Pelphrey, Carl Frall, J. H. Frall, Dr A. D. Slone, V. S. Taylor, Hubert L. Wells and Toral Franklin. Paintsville Herald  7-11-1956
WOODS, Laura (Webb)
1876-1956
LAURA WOODS, 80, PASSES TUESDAY, RITES THURSDAY
Mrs, Laura Woods, 80, beloved resident of this city, succumbed Tuesday morning at her home on Main Street following an illness of seven months. The daughter of the late Aaron and Sarah Hill Webb, she was born April 16, 1876, in Morgan County.  She had been a member of the United Baptist Church since a young woman. She was married in 1903 to Frank Woods who preceded her in death September 15, 1942.  A son also preceded her in death. Surviving are two sons; Lloyd and Bill Woods, both of this city, one daughter, Mrs. Lloyd Lemaster, Kerz, 13 grandchildren and 7 great- grandchildren. Funeral services were held Thursday, July 5, at the home with Revs. Lonza Reed and T.J. Bailey officiating. Burial was made in the Jayne Cemetery at Staffordsville under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 7-4-1956

AUGUST - 1956

AKIN, William Edwin
1901-1956
American Legion Conducts Rites
Dr. William Edwin Akin, 55, died in Veterans Hospital in Louisville at 7:00 a.m., Thursday, August 2 1956, after a long illness.  He had been a member of the staff of the Paintsville Hospital for many years, and was known throughout Eastern Kentucky. He was born Dec. 10, 1901, in Jackson, Mississippi, a son of the late William Edwin Akin and Alice Hobson Akin. Dr. Akin was graduated from "Ole Miss" in 1925 and afterward practiced pharmacy for two years in Yazoo City, Miss.  He then entered medical school at the University of Louisville where he was graduated in 1931.  He returned to Mississippi where he spent one year of internship at Vicksburg Hospital under Dr. Jack Parsons.  The next two years were spent at St. Joseph Infirmary, Louisville, where he was resident surgeon, studying under Dr. Irvin Abell. He was married in 1933 to Lola Belle Haycox, a nurse at St. Joseph Infirmary, and the following year, he came with his wife to Wayland, Ky., to work for Dr. Melvin Wicker.  In 1934 he became associated with Dr. J. H. Holbrook and Dr. Paul B. Hall at the Paintsville Hospital where he practiced until April 1941, when he entered the United States Navy as a Lieutenant Commander. Volunteering at the beginning of World War II, he was in service three years, and was given the rating of full Commander.  Dr. Akin served many months in the South Pacific theater during the conflict. After the war, he returned to the Paintsville Hospital and was in private practice until March 10, 1950, when he suffered a cerebral hemorrhage while attending a medical meeting in New York. He had been a patient in a Louisville Hospital since October 23, 1952. Dr. Akin had been a member of the Methodist Church since early childhood.  He was a member of the American College of Surgeons, a past president of the Johnson County Medical Society, a member of the Kentucky State Medical Society, Sigma Chi Fraternity, Order of the Free Masons, Order of Eastern Star, Benevolent Order of Elks, Kentucky Disabled Ex-Service Men's Board and a past Commander of the Johnson County Post 117 American Legion.  In the later organization, he held a lifetime membership. Surviving besides his wife are two sons, William Allen Akin and James Paul Akin, one daughter, Alice Joyce Akin, all at home, twin brothers, Garland Akin of Shrevesport, La., and Allen Taylor Akin of Dallas, Texas. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 4 at the Mayo Memorial Methodist Church by the Reverend J. I. Meyer, Reverend W. F. Fettus and Reverend Charles Dearing. Honorary pallbearers were Dr. J. H. Holbrook, Dr. Paul B. Hall, Dr. Lon C. Hall, Dr. Maurice Hall, Dr. John Turner, Dr. James Archer, Dr. Robert A. Hall, Dr. A. D. Slone, Dr. F. M. Picklesimer, Dr. M. Horton, Jr., Dr. Chas. L. Preston, Dr. Melvin Wicker, Dr. Lloyd Hatt, Dr. George Archer, and Dr. Herschel Murray. Members of the local post American Legion, conducted military services.  Those participating in the military rites were Guy Meade, Commander, C. R. Cooper, Chaplain, Dr. Paul B. Hall, and W. K. Vice and P. J. Meade, color bearers, William C. Martin and Ted Arnold Silvert, color guards, Tom Cox and Marvin Frye, honor guards at church, Scott Craft and D. J. Preston, buglers.  The firing squad was composed of Sfc. Henry T. Hammond, Sgt. Jesse Daniel, Sgt. Oakley Patton, Cpl. Maurice Butcher, Pfc. Loman Cantrell, Pvt. 2 Ronald Adams and Pvt. 1 James Wells, all members of the 397th Inf. Regt. Company I, U. S. Army Reserve of Paintsville. Active pallbearers, all members of the American Legion, were Edd Redd, C. R. Cooper, H. M. Howard, Ralph Gibson, Tom Cox, Marvin Frye, Escom Chandler, W. B. Hazelrigg, George Branham, Malcolm Shearer, J. R. Childers, Ralph Preston, Jimmie G. Daniel and James Wesley Mason. Burial was made in the Wells Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday August 8, 1956
ATHINGTON, Mary Renda (Borders)
1887-1952
COUNTY WOMAN  DIES WEDNESDAY
Services Held Saturday For Mrs. A. Athington Lownamsville Resident
Mrs. Mary Renda Athington, 69, wife of Allen Athington of Lowmansville, died Wednesday, August 29, 1956 in the Ashland Hospital following an illness of two months. Born July 1, 1887 at Lowmansville, she was the daughter of the late John and Mary Slone Borders. She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Funeral services were held Saturday morning September 1, 1956 at the Lowmansville United Baptist Church with Leonard Walters and Foster Grim as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Surviving besides the husband are one son, Irvin Athington, Waverly, Ohio; three daughters, Mrs. Jay Griffith, Jamestown, Ohio, Mrs. Dewey Lemaster, Ashland, and Mrs. Hollie Williams, London, Ohio; and one sister, Mrs. Zelda Castle, West Jefferson, Ohio. Paintsville Herald Wednesday September 5, 1956
BUTCHER, Tilton
1956
Funeral Services To Be Held Thursday For Tildon Butcher
Tilton Butcher, 19, high school junior of Williamsport, was killed by a blast of a shotgun about 6:00 p.m. Sunday, August 12, while squirrel hunting near the home of his grandfather, George Bowen, of Williamsport. According to coroner Jim Trimble, the youth was accidentally slain when Eugene Robinson, 24, of Turner Branch, who was hunting with his brother-in-law, Chad Penix, also of Williamsport, fired at what he thought was a squirrel.  The full force of the blast from the gun entered Butcher's chest and he died en route to a hospital. Robinson is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Robinson of this county. The victim was the son of the late Richard Butcher and Cynthia Bowen Ward.  His mother married Jeptha Ward who died December 14, 1953.  He was born July 13, 1937 and had been as lifelong resident of Williamsport where he attended Meade Memorial High School. Surviving besides his mother are one brother, Richard Butcher, one half-brother, Jeptha Ward, and two half-sisters Goldia Ward and Missy Ward, all of Williamsport. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at Old Friendship Church at Williamsport by Rev. Leonard Walters and Rev. Jim Sturgill. Burial will be made in the Ward Cemetery at Williamsport under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 8-15-1956
CASTLE, Lois (Blanton)
1937-1956
Thealka Resident Passes Tuesday After Brief Illness
Mrs. Lois Blanton Castle, 19, wife of Green Castle of Thealka, died in a local hospital Tuesday following an illness of two weeks. The daughter of Walter and Hazel Williams Blanton, she was born June 27, 1937, at Manila. Surviving besides her husband and parents are one daughter, Carolyn Bernice, two weeks old, and two sisters, Helen and Edna Blanton, both of Thealka. Funeral arrangements are incomplete, it was announced by the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Wednesday August 15, 1956
CURY, Annie J.
1956
Funeral Service Tuesday For Wife  Of Local Merchant
Mrs. Annie J. Cury, 57, of Court Street died in a Huntington hospital at noon, Sunday, August 12 after an illness of nine months. Mrs. Cury was the wife of Galib Cury who operates Cury Department Store on Court Street. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Chapter 320 of Paintsville and the Greek Orthodox Church. Surviving besides her husband are two daughters, Mrs. Halleen Kawaja, Huntington, W. Va., and Mrs. A.A. Bitter, Brooklyn, N.Y., one son, B.G. Cury of Englewood, N.J., one sister, Mrs. Nettie Eillian, Brooklyn, N.Y., and five brothers, Spiro Jasmin, Delaware, N.J., Abe Jasmin, Linden, N.J.,  Camille Jasmine, Orange, N.J., Nagie Jasmin, Baltimore, Md. and seven grandchildren. Burial will be made in Ridgelawn Cemetery in Huntington under the direction of the Steele Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 8-15-1956
DANIEL, Clista (Ward)
1956
Former Resident Passes Friday At Catlettsburg
Mrs. Clista Ward Daniel, 75, Catlettsburg, died Friday morning at her home after an extended illness. The widow of Rutherford B. Daniel, she had been a resident of Catlettsburg since 1918. She was born in Johnson County, Ky., a daughter of the late Shadrack and Lavina Ward. She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Funeral services were held Sunday at the home with burial in the Ashland Cemetery. Surviving are one son, H.J. Daniel, Ashland; one daughter, Mrs. Leonard Havens, Catlettsburg; a foster daughter, Mrs. James Goodrum, Catlettsburg; a granddaughter, Miss Patricia Ann Goodrum; two brothers, James and Stephen Ward, of River; and two sisters, Mrs. Burns Daniel, River; and Mrs. Mart VanHoose, Tutor Key.  PAINTSVILLE HERALD SEP.05 1956
DENNISON, Walter "Buck", Sr.
1956
Lifelong Resident Of Boons Camp Passes Monday
Heart Attack Fatal To "Buck" Dennison
Walker "Buck" Dennison, Sr., 63, lifelong resident of Boons Camp, died suddenly at his home Monday Aug.20 1956 from a heart attack. The son of the late Roswell and Margaret Wells Dennison, he was a farmer by occupation. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Laura Ward Dennison, one son, Walker Dennison Jr.;, Boons Camp; five daughters, Mrs. Nancy Heines, Marion, Ky.; Mrs. Betty Krausman, Louisville; Mrs. Jewell Calmes, Greely, Colorado; Mrs. Lorraine Jones, Louisville; and Miss Ellen Dennison, Louisville. Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. Bessie Penix, Boons Camp; and Mrs, Flora Moore, Ashland; and one brother, Leonard Dennison, Van Lear. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday at the home at Boons Camp with J.H. Short officiating. Burial will be in the Webb Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD AUG.22 1956
DENT, Clara Ruth (Thompson)
1899-1956
Clara Ruth Dent Dies August 14
Services Thursday For Wife Of  Hager Hill Minister
Mrs. Clara Ruth Dent, 57, died at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, August 14 at a local hospital following an illness of only a few hours from a coronary attack. Mrs. Dent was a member of the Methodist Church, and she and her husband had been active in Sunday School work in this locality for several years. Born March 1, 1899, in West Virginia, she was a daughter of David and Amanda Stewart Thompson. She was a resident of Hager Hill at the time of her death. Surviving are her husband, the Reverend Ivan Dent, and the following brothers and sisters Clarence Thompson, Carmichael, Penna., Roy Thompson, Masontown, Penna., Wilbur Thompson, Morgantown, W. Va.., Mrs. Lilly Toney, Mrs. Rushia Richards and Mrs. Emma Helmick, all of Weston W. Va., and Miss Vivian Thompson, Buffalo, N.Y. Funeral services were held at 2:30 p.m., Thursday, August 16, at the chapel of the Paintsville Funeral Home. The Rev. W.F. Pettus and Rev. John Cansier officiated. Burial was made in the Hager Hill Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday August 15, 1956
DENT, Mrs. Ivan
1956
Mrs. Ivan Dent, 57 Succumbs Tuesday
Mrs. Ivan Dent, 57, Hager Hill, died Tuesday afternoon in a local hospital following a brief illness. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 Thursday afternoon in the chapel of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday August 15, 1956
DUNHAM, Harold Donald
1956
Child Drowns At Staffordsville Services Held Sunday For Harold D. Dunham
Harold Donald Dunham, 2-year-old son of Harold and Gloria Ann Hitchcock Dunham, died Thursday in route to a local hospital, a victim of drowning. According to reports recieved here, the child who was visiting his grandmother, Mrs. Lottie Perkins of Staffordsville, fell into a pool of water while playing in the yard with other children. The child was rushed to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Surviving besides the parents and grandmother are three half-brothers, David lee King, John King and Dorris Dunham. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Staffordsville Freewill Baptist Church with Alfred Frazier, Jr., John Frank Ratliff and Charles Adams officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 8-15-1956
FERGUSON, James Francis
1862-1956
Aged Resident Of Morgan Co. Dies Tuesday Services Held Thursday For James F. Ferguson
James Francis Ferguson, 94, died at his home at Crockett,Morgan County, Tuesday morning following an illness of six weeks. The son of the late Richard and Susan Isom Ferguson, he was born February 28, 1862, in Morgan County. AS devout member of the Primitive Baptist Church, "Uncle Jim", as he was affectionately known, was a retired farmer and one of Morgan County's oldest citizens. Surviving are his wife, Matilda Skaggs Ferguson, five sons, W. I. Ferguson, Crockett, Ky., Richard Ferguson, Ottway, O., Anthony Ferguson, Stockdale, Ohio,Luther Ferguson, Talmadge, Ohio, and Martie Ferguson, Portsmouth, Ohio, four daughters, Mrs. Nancy Hamilton and Mrs. Katherine Hamilton, both of Red Bush, Mrs. Anna Watson, Shingleton, Ohio, and Mrs. Lucy Sparks of Ashland. Also surviving are two brothers, Hansford Ferguson, Relief, and Lonza Ferguson, Terryville, Ky., and two sisters, Mrs. Vera Fraley, Ottway, Ohio, and Mrs. Susan Fyffe, Keaton. Funeral services will be held Thursday morning at the home with Addie Ferguson and Robbie Ferguson as officiating ministers. Burial will be made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 8-15-1956
HANNAH, Loumintie (Davis)
1882-1956
Long Illness Fatal To Mrs. Loumintie Hannah
Resident of Meally
Mrs. Loumintie Hannah, 73, Meally, a lifelong resident of Johnson County, died Thursday night Aug.03 1956, in a local hospital following an illness of a month. The daughter of the late James and Loucretia Hall Davis, she was born November 23 1882. She was a member of the United Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, H.M. Hannah. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Elzie Banks, and Mrs. G.A. Picklesimer, both of Meally; five brothers, Lee Davis, Huntington, W. Va.; Johnnie Davis, Paintsville; George, Jim and Bruce Davis, all of Meally; one sister, Mrs. Everett Johnson, Meally; nine grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Funeral services were held Sunday morning at the Buffalo United Baptist Church with Grover Fannin and Sammie Preston as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. (Death Date calculated and entered in this obit from date of publication) PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY AUG.8.1956
LITTERAL, Pearlie C. (Whitt)
1878-1956
Mrs. Pearlie Litteral Succumbs Tuesday After Brief Illness
Services Held Today For Local Resident
Mrs. Pearlie C. Whitt Litteral, 78, a resident of this city for 15 years, died Tuesday morning, August 21, 1956 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Fannie Blankenship, Highland Avenue, following an illness of a week. Born April 21, 1878, in Magoffin County, she was the daughter of the late Samuel and Elizabeth Cooper Whitt. A teacher in the Magoffin County Schools for a number of years, she was married to the Rev. John H. Litteral, a Methodist minister, in 1903.  He preceded her in death in 1923. Mrs Litteral possessed a sweet and gentle disposition.  Her magnetic personality kept her surrounded by a host of friends, both young and old. She was a member of the First Methodist Church. Surviving are two sons, Alton H. Litteral, Nippa, and William H. Litteral, Whitmore Lake, Michigan, and three daughters, Mrs. Blankenship of this city, Mrs. G. E. Lowery, Charleston, W. Va., and Mrs. Roy W. Gerlach, Wheelersburg, Ohio. Other survivors include six brothers, W. Scott Whitt, S. Clay Whitt, and Warren E. Whitt, McAlester, Oklahoma, Charles Whitt, Claremore, Oklahoma and Cecil Whitt, Tollesboro, Ky., and two sisters, Mrs. G. F. Thomas, Grant, Va., and Mrs. Edd Little, Ashland. Also surviving is an uncle, John Hannibal Cooper, of this city, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 10:00 this morning at the First Methodist Church with the Rev. W. F. Pettus officiating. Burial was made in the Vernon Cemetery at Wheelersburg, Ohio, under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY Aug. 29, 1956
NECESSARY, Conley Sekion
1930-1956
MAN DROWNS AFTER CAR OVERTURNS IN CREEK
Conley Necessary Dies Saturday In Accident At Boons Camp
Conley Sekion Necessary, 26, died Saturday evening, August 8, 1956 when the automobile he was driving plunged over an eight-foot embankment into Greasy Creek, pinning him beneath the steering wheel. Coroner Jim Trimble his death was caused by accidental drowning. The victim was driving a 1949 Mercury, and had turned his car in the road near the home of Dallas Music about 20 minutes before the accident, it was reported.  His body was discovered by Delbert Ray Music of Boons Camp, who with Lee Ward, a neighbor, pried open the door of the automobile which was lying upside down in the bed of Greasy Creek. The two administered artificial respiration but all efforts to revive the victim failed. He was the son of Arm and Susan Sturgill Necessary, and was born at Boons Camp on November 29, 1930. He had been a resident of Columbus, Ohio for the past three years where he was employed as a service station attendant. Surviving besides his parents are one son, Jimmie Darrell Necessary of Auxier, Ky., three sisters, Mrs. Eugene Ward and Mrs. James Dennison, Jr., both of Boons Camp, Mrs. Ora Daniel of Arville, W. Va., and five brothers, Bill Necessary, Slagle, W. Va., Joe Necessary, Homestead, Fla., John W. Necessary, Wheelright, Ky., Charles R. Necessary, Columbus, Ohio, and Frank Necessary, with the Air Force in Germany. Funeral services were held Tuesday, August 14, 1956 at the Freewill Baptist Church at Boons Camp by Rev. Bill Mills and J. H. Short. Burial was made in the Mollett Cemetery at Boons Camp under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday August 15, 1956
PRESTON, Priscilla (Elliott)
1876-1956
LEUKEMIA FATAL TO WELL-KNOWN VAN LEAR WOMAN
MRS. PRISCILLA PRESTON DIES AUGUST 16 AFTER SHORT ILLNESS
Mrs. Priscilla Preston, 79, one of Johnson County's best known and respected women, died at 2:00 a.m. Thursday, August 16, at her home on the east side of the river near West Van Lear. Her death came after an illness of only two days from acute leukemia. She was the daughter of Abraham and Drucilla Webb Elliott, and was born September 23, 1876, at Van Lear. She spent her entire life in that locality, where she leaves many friends and relatives. In early womanhood, Mrs. Preston was converted and became a member of the Baptist Church. She remained a devout Christian woman and attended church regularly as long as her health permitted. On October 6, 1895, she was married in Paintsville to Clate Preston and to this union were born two sons, J. Milo Preston and Otto Preston, both of West Van Lear, who survive.  Also surviving are four grandchildren, Mrs. Walter Groom, San Diego, Calif.., James R. Preston and Mrs. Jerry Fraim, both of Paintsville, William D. Preston, West Van Lear and one great granddaughter, Peggy Ann Preston; one brother, John Elliott, Elk City, Okla., and one sister, Mrs. J. K. Stratton, Ivel, Ky.  Her husband preceded her in death May 3, 1933. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 18, at the West Van Lear Church of Christ by the Rev. S. C. Honeycutt. Active pallbearers were Stewart Conley, Brooksie Webb, Carlos Goble, William Stambaugh, Deward Price, Taulbee Derossett,; Honorary pallbearers were: Alex Webb, Irvin Music, W. A. Cumbo, Bruce Phelps, Cecil Sherman and Dr. Paul B. Hall. Burial was made in the Preston family cemetery at West Van Lear under the  direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 8-22-1956
STAPLETON, Pat
1891-1956
Pat Stapleton, 65, Dies Thursday At Staffordsville
Pat Stapleton, 65, a retired miner died Thursday morning at his home at Staffordsville, following an illness of a month. The son of the late George P. and Margaret Preston Stapleton, he was born May 18, 1891 in Johnson County.  He had been a resident of Van Lear for a number of years before moving to Staffordsville a month ago. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Myrtle Pennington Stapleton, three sons, John and Bill  Stapleton, both of Staffordsville, and James Stapleton, West Van Lear, and one daughter, Mrs. Wiley McCarty, Torrance, California. Funeral services were held Saturday morning at the Cedar Grove United Baptist Church at West Van Lear with John Crum as officiating minister. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Van Lear under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. September 5, 1956
TACKETT, T.J.
1891-1956
SERVICES THURSDAY (Aug. 9, 1956) FOR T. J. TACKETT
T. J. Tackett, 65, died Monday  in the West Liberty Hospital following an illness of two weeks. His death was attributed to a heart attack. He had been a resident of Nippa for 18 years. Born May 12, 1891, at East Point, he was the son of the late W. M. and Mary E. Collins Tackett. He was a farmer by occupation and a veteran of World War I. Surviving are his wife, Nettie Boyd Tackett; three sons, William Tackett, Midway, Ohio, Harold Tackett, Connersville, Ind., and Floyd C. Tackett, U. S. Army; five daughters, Mrs. Alice Litz, Huntington, Miss Lillian Tackett, Midway, Ohio, Miss Dorothy Tackett, Nippa, Mrs. Ruth Marsh, Charleston, W. Va., and Miss Deloris Tackett, Nippa; and one stepson, Grover Fields, Connersville, Ind. Other survivors include three sisters, Mrs. Beecher McCloud, Stambaugh, Mrs. Oakley Castle, Lowmansville and Mrs. Sam Baldridge, West Van Lear; and two brothers, Tenner Tackett, Nippa, and Jess Tackett, Hillsboro, Ky. Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Thursday, (Aug. 9, 1956) at the home with Rev. Moses Kitchen officiating. Music will be by the Toms Creek Singers. Burial will be made in the Van Hoose Cemetery at Nippa under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY AUG. 8 1956
WHEELER, Rosa (Williams)
1880-1956
Rosa Wheeler, 76, Former Resident Dies In Ashland
Services At Olive Hill For Native Of Flat Gap
Mrs. Rosa Williams Wheeler, 76, wife of Dr. W. H. Wheeler of Olive Hill died in Our Lady Of the Bellefonte Hospital at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 1.  Death was caused by cancer of the lungs and followed an illness of over two months. She was born at Flat Gap June 23, 1880, the daughter of the late Sanford and Lousina Reed Williams, a well-known family of that section. She and Dr. Wheeler were married at Flat Gap May 3, 1901.  They lived at West Liberty for a number of years then later moved to Ashland and for the past twenty years had made their home in Olive Hill. She was a member of the First Baptist Church and as long as her health permitted was active in its service.  Her life was one of inspiring dedication to its principles, and her faith and courage demonstrated the strength of her convictions. A truly "good woman" her every act was motivated by love - love of God, love of family and love for her fellow men.  As she gave so she received, she was loved by all who knew her. A woman, gentle and king, who walked in beauty, she was endowed with the dignity and simplicity of greatness.  Her inner serenity of spirit was reflected in the radiance of her personality and the calmness of her manner.  Always gracious, always thoughtful of others, her heart warming compassion embraced not only the members of her family, but extended to all whom she came in contact. Survivors include besides her husband, a daughter, Mrs. Scott E. Roberts, Ashland, a brother, George Herbert Williams, Indianapolis, Ind., and one grandson, Kent Earl Roberts. Funeral services were conducted from the First Baptist Church in Olive Hill at 1:00 p.m. Friday, August 3, by the pastor, Rev. L. M. Ader. Burial was in the Ashland Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Thursday August 15, 1956

SEPTEMBER - 1956

ADAMS, Debra
1956-1956
Graveside Rite Held For Adams Infant
Graveside rites were held at the family cemetery at Nippa by the Rev Jonah Castle for Debra Adams, two-day-old daughter of Thurman and Ollie May Castle Adams, Nappa, who died Tuesday, September 11, 1956. Surviving beside the parent are three sisters, Helen Francis Williams, Norwood, Ohio, and Maggie Rose and Olishia Harlene Adams both at home.   And four brothers, Charles Leslie Adams, Staffordsville, Robert Ishmeal,  Melvin Douglas and Darryl Dean Adams all at home. Burial was under the directions of the Preston Funeral Home Paintsville Herald Wednesday 9-19-1956
CHANDLER, Laura (Lemaster)
1874-1956
County Woman Passes Away Services Held Tuesday For Mrs. Laura Chandler Of Chandlerville
Mrs. Laura Chandler, 82, a lifelong resident of this county, died Sunday, at the home of her son, Arthur Chandler, Chandlerville, following an illness of two years. Born April 1 1874, she was the daughter of the late James and Sarah Scarberry Lemaster. She was a member of the Sugar Grove United Baptist Church. She was married to Columbus Chandler who preceded her in death 32 years ago. Surviving besides her son are three daughters, Mrs. Bessie Davis, Irwin, Ohio; Mrs. Jessie Lemaster, Marysville, Ohio; and Mrs. Tisha Gibbs, East Liberty, Ohio; one sister, Mrs. Martha Jane Nichols, Ashland; and two brothers, Sherman Lemaster, Henrietta; and John Lemaster, White House. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at the home with Alfred Chandler officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Chandlerville under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home.  PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY SEP.12.1956
CHARLES, Mary Elizabeth (Lyons)
1888-1956
Mrs. Pete Charles Dies Thursday After Brief Illness
Services Held Sunday For Thealka Woman Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Charles, 68, wife of Pete Charles at Thealka died at her home Thursday morning following an illness of a week. A member of the Freewill Baptist Church she had been a resident of thealka for 41 years. The daughter of Andy and Katherine Bowens Lyons, she was born November 25, 1888, in Lawrence County. Surviving besides her husband are two sons, Harkless Charles, Thealka, and Johnnie Charles, Columbus, Ohio, and two daughters, Mrs. Roscoe Pack and Mrs. Alva Castle, both of Thealka. Funeral services were held Sunday at the Walnut Grove Freewill Baptist Church with James Lyons and Don Fraley as officiating ministers. Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 9-12-1956
DANIEL, Ross
1956
Former Resident Dies Wednesday Heart Attack Fatal To Retired Farmer
Ross Daniel, 79, died at his home at West Union, Ohio, Wednesday September 5 1956, a few hours after being stricken by a heart attack. A former resident of this county, he had been living in West Union for the past ten years. He was the son of the late Newt and Betsy Castle Daniel of Johnson County. He was a member of the United Baptist Church and engaged in farming before his retirement. He is survived by eleven children, seven sons, Orville, Galion, Ohio; Ray, Amelia, Ohio; Arnold, Cincinnati, Ohio; Richard, Galion, Ohio; Roscoe, U.S. Navy; Elmer, West Union, Ohio; Ryth, Menifee, County; four daughters, Mrs. Hazel Moore, Cincinnati, Ohio; Mrs. Grace Cross, Miss Ruth Daniel and Miss Edna Daniel all of West Union, Ohio; one brother, Gus Daniel, of Ripley, Ohio, also survives. Funeral services were conducted at the Tom's Creek Freewill Baptist Church, at 2:00 p.m. SUnday, September 9, with Revs, Claude Preston and Millard VanHoose officiating. Music was by the Tom's Creek Singers. Burial was in the Sycamore Cemetery at Nippa under the direction of the Jones-Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD SEP.12 1956
DANIELS, Barbara J.
1956
Daniels Infant Succumbs September 30;
Following Operation
Barbara J. Daniels, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Daniels, Willow Run, Michigan, died Sunday, September 30, following an operation performed in an effort to save her life. She leaves besides her parents, one brother, Jeffrey, the paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. E. I. Daniels, Ironton, O., formerly of Chandlerville, Ky., and the maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Ishmael Hayes, also of Ironton, Ohio. Services were conducted at Hiland Cemetery, Ypsilanti, Michigan, Tuesday afternoon with the Rev. Rex Lowell Young officiating.  Burial was made under the direction of the Moore Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday October 10, 1956
DUTTON, William
1865-1956
William Dutton Of Boons Camp Dies Thursday
William Dutton, 91, a resident of Boons Camp for 84 years died Thursday at the home of his son, Lang Dutton, Boons Camp following an illness of a year. The son of Eliza and Sally Penix Dutton, he was born June 1, 1865, in Wise County, Virginia. He was a member of the United Baptist Church and a retired farmer.  He was preceded in death September 23, 1931, by his wife, Julie Castle Dutton. Surviving are five sons, Lang and Ora Dutton, Boons Camp, Cas Dutton, Hatfield, Ky., George Dutton, Huntington, W. Va., and Willie Dutton, Chatteroy, W. Va., and one daughter, Mrs. Melissa Priest, Tomahawk. Funeral services were held Saturday morning at the Williamsport United Baptist Church with Leonard Arrowood, Glen Arrowood and John Crum as officiating ministers. Burial was made in the Pigg Cemetery at Boons Camp under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY SEP.19 1956
FERGUSON, Ernest
1956
Ernest Ferguson Sudden Victim Of Heart Attack
Services At Relief For Former Resident
Ernest May Ferguson, 68, died suddenly of a heart attack at his home in Columbus, Ohio, at 1:35 a.m., Sunday, September 9. Born at Relief, Ky., the son of John H. Ferguson and Sally Sherman Ferguson, he had lived in Columbus for the past fourteen years. He was a member of the Baptist Church and was formerly employed as a worker in the steel mills. Survivors include his widow, Mrs Anna Ferguson; three brothers, P.H. Ferguson, R.I. Ferguson, W.N. Ferguson, and one sister, Fannie Wallin, all of Relief. Funeral services were conducted from the home of P.H. Ferguson at Relief at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, September 12, with Ave Bradley as the officiating minister. Burial was in the Ferguson Cemetery at Relief under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Wednesday September 12, 1956
FIELDS, Milan
1881-1956
LOCAL RESIDENT DIES FRIDAY; SERVICES MONDAY
Mr. Milan Fields, 75, of Paintsville, died Friday  in a local hospital following an illness of a year. Born June 27, 1881, at Odds, Ky., he was the son of the late Eulis and Irene Brad Fields. Mr. Fields was a retired miner and had lived in Southside Addition for the past thirteen years. He was a member of the Church of Christ. On August 17, 1941, he was united in marriage to Tessie Burke Fields, who survives. Surviving besides his wife are three sons, John M. Fields, Eugene Fields, both of Van Lear, Ky., and Elmer Lee Fields, Price, Ky.; two daughters; Mrs. Virgie Brown, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Mrs. Beulah Howard, Stagle, W.Va.; one sister, Mrs. Callie Bledsoe, Columbus, Ohio; twenty-two grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. Funeral services were held Monday morning (Oct. 1, 1956) at the Daniels Creek Church of Christ, with Leonard Webb as officiating minister. Burial was made in the Collins Cemetery at Daniels Creek under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. The Paintsville Herald Wednesday October 3, 1956
FITZPATRICK, Mason
1893-1956
Fitzpatrick, Mason-4-9-19-1956
Slate Fall Fatal To 2 On Asa Creek Mason Fitzpatrick And Dorval May Die Instantly In Mine Accident Tuesday Afternoon Two Johnson County men were killed instantly in a coal mine on Asa Creek when a fall of rock 23 feet long fell crushing them underneath its weight. The victims were Mason Fitzpatrick, prominent citizen of Leander, and Dorval May, well-known citizen of Whitaker. They were working in the mine owned by Fitspatrick and Homer May, brother of the victim. The operation had been closed for about one month but was reopened by the men last Monday. The coal lands had been leased from Clarence Scott and the opening extended only about 150 feet inside the hill. The accident occurred about 1:30 Tuesday afternoon. Mr. Fitzpatrick was a member of a large family and had been a resident of Holly Branch on Jennies Creek for many years. He was a devout Christian, a kind and considerate father and husband. He was known throughout this section as a "good man." Born on November 13, 1893, he was the son of James and Rhoda Blair Fitzpatrick. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Pentecostal Church. He was married in 1918 to Miss Anna Robinson who survives him. Mr. Fitzpatrick had taught school in the county in his early manhood, but had followed the mining profession in later years. He had qualified as a mine foreman under the laws of Kentucky. Surviving besides his wife are one daughter, Mrs. Ruth Evelyn Salyer and two granddaughters, Sharon and Lee Ann, of Lorain, Ohio; one sister, Mrs. Virgie Rivers of Mt. Sterling, Ohio and many relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the home at Leander on Friday. Graveside rites will be conducted by the members of the Masonic Lodge. Burial will be made in the Robinson Cemetery in Little Paint near East Point in Floyd County under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Mr. May was the son of the late Willie May and Leona Caudill May and was born on Jennies Creek on June 6, 1917. He was the nephew of Mrs. Otto Pratt of this city. He was married to Katy Marshall and to this union were born four daughters, Clora, Joyce, Wanda, and Judy all at home. He leaves to brothers, Homer May, Leander; Gayle May, Whitaker, and four sisters, Geneva Woods, Columbia, Ohio; Jeanette Collins, Whitaker, Dessie Spencer, Whitaker and Rhoda Greer, Ypsilanti, Mich. He was a member of the Freewill Baptist church. Funeral Services will be held Thursday at the Freewill Baptist Church at Whitaker and burial will be made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Wednesday September 19, 1956
Obituary Mason B. Fitzpatrick, prominent citzen of Leander, Ky, passed away Sept. 18, 1956 at the age of 62 years, 10 months, 5 days. He was the son of the late James and Rhoda Blair Fitzpatrick. He was united in marriage to Anna Grace Robinson July 25, 1918. Surviving him are his wife and only daughter, Mrs. Ruth Evelyn Fitzpatrick Salyer, two grandaughters, Lee Ann and Sharon Kay Salyer of Elyria, Ohio, and sister Mrs. Virgie Rivers of Mt. Sterling, Ohio. Mr. Fitzpatrick was a member of the Pentecostal Church of Leander, and also a member of the Masonic Lodge of Paintsville, No_ _ 631. The following article written by his daughter appeared in the Lorain Journal, Lorain, Ohio the week preceding Fathers Day two years ago. The topic is "What My Father Means To Me." As a child my father meant protection during a storm, tranquility amid turmoil, peace in war, beauty among the ugly, the sober among the intoxicated, and healer of broken spirits In fact, he, to me, was a saint among devils. He was one in whose huge footprints I was constantly trying to walk. When I became a confused adolescent, my father, too, became a bit confusing. He seemed to mean pride amid humility, and humility amid pride. He was stern when I disobeyed, yet he was loving and forgiving when I made a mistake. Nevertheless, he was the man whom I strived to please. He meant truth among the deceitful, success amid failure, hope in the midst of despair, security in depression and comfort in time of trouble. Today, as an adult, my father means to me faith, hope and love. Faith---to carry me to the spiritual success he has attained. Hope, that I can hand down to my own children many of the same principles the he has taught me. And love---enough in my heart for him to last not only as long as he lives, but as long as I shall live. Mrs. Ruth Salyer, 5200 Ridgewood Street Elyria 7, Ohio Paintsville Herald Wednesday 9-26-1956
HITCHCOCK, Alice
1956
Alice Hitchcock, Former Resident, Passes Saturday
Mrs. Alice Hitchcock, 85, a former resident of this county, died Saturday, September 18, at the home of her grandson, Van Hitchcock, in Mechanicsburg, Ohio, following an illness of two weeks. She was married to John D. Hitchcock, who preceded her in death several years ago. Surviving are two sons, Cecil Hitchcock, Volga, Ky., and Wayne hitchcock, Smith Grove, Ky.; two daughters, Mrs. Oakley Picklesimer, Volga, and Mrs. Tom Conley, Salyersville, and one sister, Mrs. Chloe Stapleton. Funeral services were held Friday at the home of Cecil Hitchcock at Volga with Scott Castle as officiating minister. Music was by the Toms Creek Singers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Volga under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 9-26-1956
KERR, John Lee
1956
GRAVESIDE RITES HELD MONDAY FOR KERR INFANT
Graveside rites were held Monday morning at the Colvin Cemetery, Manila, for John Lee Kerr, infant son of Donald and Juanita Rigsby of this city. Surviving besides the parents are the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. F. F. Rigsby and Mrs. Lenora Auxier. Burial was under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home.Paintsville Herald Wednesday September 26, 1956
LEMASTER, Proctor
1898-1956
Services Held Friday For Proctor Lemaster
Proctor Lemaster, 58, Oil field worker of Oil Springs, died at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, September 4, 1956, in a local hospital of  a heart condition following a 4-year illness. Born March 23, 1898, the son of J. W. and Amanda Collins Lemaster of Oil Springs, he had been a lifelong resident of that community. He was a member of the United Baptist Church and was employed by the Ashland Oil Company. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Bertha Blair Lemaster, and four children; one son, Harold Lemaster, Oil Springs; three daughters, Bernette Thomas and Elizabeth Liper both of Dayton, Ohio, and Marian Lee Tackett, Oil Springs. Also surviving are four sisters, Mrs. Flora Wheeler, Columbus, Ohio; Mrs. Lula Crace, and Mrs. Abbie Caudill, Piketon, Ohio; Mrs. Julie Smith, Leeco, Ky. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, September 7, from the State Road Fork United Baptist Church with Dona Conley as officiating minister. Pallbearers were Thurman Adams,  Morris Shelton, Oscar Wheeler, Jr., Clifford Lemaster, Forrest Blair and Mitchell Conley. Burial was in the Collins Cemetery at Oil Springs under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD SEP.12 1956
MAY, Dorval
1917-1956
Slate Fall Fatal To 2 On Asa Creek Mason Fitzpatrick And Dorval May Die Instantly In Mine Accident Tuesday Afternoon Two Johnson County men were killed instantly in a coal mine on Asa Creek when a fall of rock 23 feet long fell crushing them underneath its weight. The victims were Mason Fitzpatrick, prominent citizen of Leander, and Dorval May, well-known citizen of Whitaker. They were working in the mine owned by Fitspatrick and Homer May, brother of the victim. The operation had been closed for about one month but was reopened by the men last Monday. The coal lands had been leased from Clarence Scott and the opening extended only about 150 feet inside the hill. The accident occurred about 1:30 Tuesday afternoon. Mr. Fitzpatrick was a member of a large family and had been a resident of Holly Branch on Jennies Creek for many years. He was a devout Christian, a kind and considerate father and husband. He was known throughout this section as a "good man." Born on November 13, 1893, he was the son of James and Rhoda Blair Fitzpatrick. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Pentecostal Church. He was married in 1918 to Miss Anna Robinson who survives him. Mr. Fitzpatrick had taught school in the county in his early manhood, but had followed the mining profession in later years. He had qualified as a mine foreman under the laws of Kentucky. Surviving besides his wife are one daughter, Mrs. Ruth Evelyn Salyer and two granddaughters, Sharon and Lee Ann, of Lorain, Ohio; one sister, Mrs. Virgie Rivers of Mt. Sterling, Ohio and many relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the home at Leander on Friday. Graveside rites will be conducted by the members of the Masonic Lodge. Burial will be made in the Robinson Cemetery in Little Paint near East Point in Floyd County under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Mr. May was the son of the late Willie May and Leona Caudill May and was born on Jennies Creek on June 6, 1917. He was the nephew of Mrs. Otto Pratt of this city. He was married to Katy Marshall and to this union were born four daughters, Clora, Joyce, Wanda, and Judy all at home. He leaves to brothers, Homer May, Leander; Gayle May, Whitaker, and four sisters, Geneva Woods, Columbia, Ohio; Jeanette Collins, Whitaker, Dessie Spencer, Whitaker and Rhoda Greer, Ypsilanti, Mich. He was a member of the Freewill Baptist church. Funeral Services will be held Thursday at the Freewill Baptist Church at Whitaker and burial will be made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD Wednesday September 19, 1956
RATLIFF, Virgie (Blair)
1892-1956
Mrs. Virgie Blair Ratliff, 64, wife of Frank Ratliff of Paintsville, died in a Huntington, W. Va., hospital Tuesday Morning Sep.4 1956, following an illness of a year. Born December 17, 1892, at Barnett's Creek, she was the daughter of the Jim and Katherine Blair. She had been a resident of Paintsville for 13 years. Surviving besides her husband are two sons, Mitchell and Clyde Ratliff, both of this city; two daughters, Maxine Ratliff, city; and Mrs Irene Kessinger, Cleveland, Ohio; one brother, Vernie Blair, Barnett's Creek; one half-brother, Albert Blair, city; and three half-sisters, Mrs. Tommie Trimble, and Mrs. Nola Blair, both of this city; and Mrs. Clara McFaddin, of Ohio. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at the United Baptist Church of this city with Prater Blair, O.I. Williams, and F.F. Rigsby as officiating ministers. Burial will be made in the family cemetery at Barnett's Creek under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD SEP.5 1956
SALYER, Addison
1956
Mystery Shrouds The Death of Addison Salyer
Funeral services for Addison Salyer, 37, who was found dead under his automobile on the Middle Fork Road about 6:30 Thursday morning, were held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday. The victim was discovered underneath his '53 Buick, which was turned upside down in the bed of the creek. An autopsy examination at Pikeville revealed that death was caused by head injuries and concussion.  He was reportedly last seen with a companion, Crate Blair, about 8:30 on the preceding evening. A son of the late Addison and Cora Rice Salyer of Collista, he was a member of a large and prominent family of this county.  A veteran of 17 years service, he was home on a 15-day leave from a Veterans hospital in Battle Creek, Michigan, when he met his death. He was reported to have been totally disabled and was drawing compensation for service- connected disability. Surviving are six brothers, Ray Salyer, Collista; Roy Salyer, St. Cloud, Fla, Cecil Salyer, Jacksonville, Fla, Grady Salyer, Ypsilanti, Mich., Patrick Salyer, Ashland, Ky., Billie Salyer, Lawrenceville, Ind., four sisters, Mrs. Buel Trimble, West Liberty, O.; Mrs. Abner Lowe, Ashland, Ky., Mrs. Pauline Blair, Barnetta Creek and Miss Ruth Salyer, Barnetta Creek. His father preceded him in death in March of this year. Funeral services were held at the Free Will Baptist Church at Collista by Rev. Sam Slone and Rev. M. R. Thomason. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 9-12-1956
TUNE, L.H.
1897-1956
Rites Held Saturday For Insurance Agent
L. H. Tune, 59, well-known insurance agent of this city, died Thursday morning, September 20, 1956, ?????? hospital following an illness of four days. Although in ill health for several months, he had continued his duties as staff manager for Life and Casualty Insurance Company here.  He had suffered a heart attack Monday, September 17, 1956, at his office but was believed to be recovering when he was stricken with another heart seizure Thursday morning, September 20, 1956. He was born Wednesday. July 21, 1897, in Nicholas County, Kentucky, the son of the late Samuel Thomas and Mary Waugh Tune. Moving to Paintsville eighteen years ago, he became an active member of the First Christian Church, where he was an elder and superintendent at the Sunday School at the time of his death. He was also a member of the local Kiwanis Club. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Grace Nickell Tune, two sons, Wayne Tune, Lexington, and Edward Tune, Indianapolis, Indiana, one daughter, Mrs. Jo Wanda ?????, Frankfort, Ky., and one brother, Clarence Tune, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the First Christian Church with the Rev. Joseph Zavadiky officiating. Active pallbearers were Granville Trimble, Clarence Cooper, Clarence Sherman, Everett Hatt, Jess W. Songer, and Gabe Takaes. Honorary pallbearers were J. N. Stambaugh, O.O. Roberts, J. C. Eddleman, J. K. Gilchrist, Grady Stafford, Elmer Castle, Lloyd Collins, Dr. Robert Powers, James Patton and the district mangers and employees of the Life and Casualty Insurance Company. Burial was made in the Richmond Cemetery at Paintsville under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 09-26-1956
WARD, William B.
1862-1956
William B. Ward, 94, lifelong resident of Johnson County, died Saturday afternoon Sep. 1956, at the home of his neice, Mrs. Martha Hall, Boons Camp, following an illness of a year. Born July 29 1862, he was the son of William H. and Mary Stambaugh Ward. He was a retired blacksmith. Surviving are his wife, Josephine Conley Ward, Lancaster, Ohio; and two daughters, Mrs. Minnie Dutton, Mechanicsburg, Ohio; and Mrs. Grace Johnson, Stoutsville, Ohio. Funeral services were held Monday morning at the home of Mrs. Hall at Boons Camp, with Leonard Walters as officiating minister. Burial was made in the Butcher Cemetery at Boons Camp under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD OCT.03 1956
WHEELER, Mima (Chandler)
1882-1956
Wilbur Woman Dies Thursday; Services Sunday
Mrs. Mima Chandler Wheeler, 73, wife of Josh Wheeler of Wilbur, Ky., died Thursday in a local hospital following an illness of eight months. Death was attributed to cancer. Born November 10, 1882, at Chandlerville, she was the daughter of the late Isaac and Lucina Wheeler Chandler.  She was a member of the Baptist church. Surviving besides her husband are one son, Troy Wheeler, Wilbur; one daughter, Mrs. Jess Green, city; three sisters, Mrs. Cora Wheeler, Chandlerville, Mrs. Vina Burton, City, Mrs. Mary Wheeler, Elk Fork; two brothers, Alfred Chandler, Ashland and Jay Chandler, Minford, Ohio; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Sunday morning at the home at Wilbur with Claude Preston as officiating minister. Burial was made in the Wheeler Cemetery at Wilbur under the direction of the Preson Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday September 26, 1956

OCTOBER - 1956

BADGETT, Americus McCallough "Mec"
1956
Heart Attack Fatal to ‘Mec’ Badgett
Americus McCallough “Mec” Badgett, 80, of East Point, and father of Mrs. James T. Auxier of this city, died at his home October 28 of a heart attack. He was a son of James and Martha Music Badgett and was married to Lorena Harmon Badgett who survives him. He was a well-known farmer and a respected citizen of the Little Paint vicinity. Other survivors include the following children, Mrs. Mary Music of Cliff; Mrs. Lorena Horn, Prestonsburg, Mrs. Josephine Auxier, city, and John Badgett of East Point.  Surviving sisters are Mrs. Sally Hager, East Point, Mrs. Laura Davis, London, Ohio; Mrs. Eva Collins, Rush, Ky.; Mrs. Katie Stafford, Hitchins, Ky., 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Funeral services were conducted at 2:00 p.m. on October 30, at the Church of God in Little Paint by Rev. Woodrow Branham, Rev. John P. Carr, Rev. Roy Bentley and Rev. Moses Kitchen. Burial was made in the family cemetery on Little Paint Creek. Paintsville Herald 11-14-1956
BLAIR, Burlie
1904-1956
BURLIE BLAIR, 52,PASSES AT HOME; RITES SATURDAY
Services were held Saturday afternoon, October 13,(1956) at Barnetts Creek United Baptist Church for Mr. Burlie Blair, who died at his home at Barnetts Creek, Ky., on Wednesday, October 10, after a brief illness. Born September 23, 1904 in Johnson County, he was the son of the late John W. Blair and Hattie George Blair, who survives him. Mr. Blair had been a lifelong resident of Barnetts Creek and was occupied as a tool dresser in the oil fields. Surviving besides his mother are his wife, Hazel Blair, two sons, Kenward Pitt Blair, with the U. S. Air Force, and John Wayne Blair, at home; eight daughters, Mrs. Luraline Price, Mrs. Betty Auldich, both of Marion, Ohio; Mrs. Theoda Fairless, Corpus Christy, Texas; Mrs. Mildred Caudill, Barltha, Freda, Charlotte and Yvonne, all at home. two brothers, Dennie Blair, Marion, Ohio and Grant Blair, at home; two sisters, Mrs. Mamie Litteral, Oil Springs and Mrs. Hazel Mewhorter, Marion, Ohio. Officiating ministers were Prater Blair and Francis Blair.  Burial was made in the family cemetery at Barnetts Creek under the direction of the Jones Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 10-17-1956
BOWEN, Johnny
1883-1956
Local Resident Passes Monday; Rites Wednesday
Funeral services were held Wednesday, October 3, at the Offutt Cemetery for Johnny Bowen, 73 of this city, who died Monday at a local hospital following an illness of two weeks. The son of the late Lige and Lena Murry Bowen, he was born May 1, 1883, in this county. He had been a resident of this city for nine years. Surviving are one brother, Sam Bowen, and three sisters, Margaret Bowen, city, Melissa Mollett, Offutt, and Fancy Bowen of Inex. Burial was made in the Offutt Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 10-3-1956
BUSH, Mary Frances
1918-1956
Mary Frances Bush Succumbs Tuesday
Miss Mary Frances Bush, 38, died in a local hospital Tuesday morning after a very brief illness. The daughter of A. J. Bush, who preceded her in death, and Ellen Cooper Bush, who survives, she was born August 13, 1918 in Johnson county and was a resident of Bridgeford Addition at the time of her death. She belonged to the Freewill Baptist Church. Surviving besides her mother are two brothers, Arnold Bush and Willard C. Bush, both  of Hamilton, Ohio. Funeral service arrangements are incomplete at this time, the Paintsville Funeral Home announces. Paintsville Herald Wednesday  10-24-1956
CASTLE, Drucie (Johnson)
1895-1956
Thealka Resident Passes October 3; Services Friday
Mrs. Drucie Castle, wife of Lonza Castle, Thealka, Ky., died Wednesday, October 3 in a local hospital after an illness of a year. Mrs. Castle was born February 11, 1895 in Johnson County, and was the daughter of the late David and Martha Baldridge Johnson.  She had been a resident of Thealka for the past twelve years and was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. She leaves to mourn her passing, her husband, one brother, William Johnson, Hinton, W. Va.; and two sisters, Mrs. Exer Lilly, and Mrs. Lora Wells, both of East Point, Ky. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon in the Jones-Preston Funeral Home with the Rev. Don Fraley officiating.  Music was furnished by the Tom’s Creek Singers. Burial was made in the East Point Family Cemetery under the direction of the Jones-Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald   10-10-1956
FAIRCHILD, Ellen (Salyers)
1877-1956
Ellen Fairchild, Former Resident, Dies Sunday
Services Conducted Tuesday  In Ashland Mrs. Ellen Fairchild, 78, widow of Clark D. Fairchild died at 2:45 a.m. Sunday at her home in Ashland.  Her death followed an illness of the past year. Mrs. Fairchild was born December 24, 1877, in Flat Gap, a daughter of the late Shanklin and Amanda Wheeler Salyers.  She had been a resident of Ashland since 1912 and had been active in church and fraternal affairs.  She was a member and past noble grand of the Margaret Rebekah Lodge IOOF, of the Daughters of America, of the Betty Class Club, and of the United Baptist Church. Surviving are a son, Troy E. Fairchild, Ashland, two daughters, Mrs., Alma Porter, both of Ashland, two brothers, Franklin Salyer of Ashland and John Salyer of Russell, eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Special services were conducted at the John Steep Funeral Home Monday night by members of Liberty Council No. 48, Daughters of America. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. at the Oak Springs Baptist Church on 39th Street with the Rev. Everett Sloan, assisted by the Rev. Thomas Howard officiating. Burial was in the Ashland Cemetery with members of the Margaret Rebekah Lodge No. 29 conducting the graveside services. Pallbearers were Riffle Jennings, Robert Gilbreath, William Sullivan, Dennis Salyer, William Salyer and James Evans. October 24, 1956
KING, Martha (Curtis)
1879-1956
Services Held At Elna Saturday
Services were held Saturday afternoon at the Williams Cemetery at Elna, Ky., for Mrs. Martha King, 77, who died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Lortza Lemaster, Hilliards, Ohio, on Thursday, October 18. Her husband, Powell King, preceded her in death six years ago. Born at Red Bush, Ky., on September 7, 1879, Mrs. King was the daughter of George and Rachel Cantrell Curtis. She had made her home in Hilliards for the past six years, and was a member of the United Baptist Church. She is survived by four sons, George A. King, Pleas King, both of Columbus, Ohio; Lloyd King and Johnnie King, both of Hilliards, Ohio, and two daughters, Mrs Charles Curtis, Chillicothe, Ohio and Mrs. Lonza Lemaster, Hilliards, Ohio. Rev. Lonza Reed and Tommie Bailey officiated at the services and at the burial, which was made in the Williams Cemetery at Elna, under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY OCT.24 1956
MEADE, Rollie
1906-1956
Rollie Meade, 50, Dies Suddenly
Rollie M. Meade, 50, died suddenly at his home at Staffordsville Sunday morning. Death was attrituted to a heart attack. Born October 3, 1906 at Mine Fork, Ky., he was the son of the late Wannie and Mary Alice Wheeler Meade. He had been employed as a clerk with Meade & Co., since it first went into business here about fifteen years age. His genial and likeable manner was known to all. He appeared in good spirits and was in apparently good health while at work on Saturday. Surviving are his wife, Merzie Pelphrey Meade; two sons, James Meade of this city, and Charles Wendell Meade, San Diego, Calif.; five daughters, Mrs. Laura Alice Reed, Baltimore, Md., Nola Mac, Mary Christine, Phyllis Ann, and Virginia Ruth, all at home; two brothers, Tollie Meade, city, and Albert Meade, Danville, Ky.; three sisters, Mrs. Winfield Baker, Harrodsburg, Ky., Mrs. Delbert Lemaster, Piketon, Ohio, and Mrs. Dock Fairchild, of Staffordsville. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the home, with Bruce Daniel and Claude Preston as officiating ministers. Music was provided by the Toms Creek Quartet. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 10-31-1956
MESSER, Vina (Webb)
1888-1956
Services Monday For Vina Messer Of W. Van Lear Wife of Former Jailer Dies Suddenly Saturday
Mrs. Vina Messer, 68, lifelong resident of Johnson County, died at her home at West Van Lear Saturday morning, October 6, after an illness of one day. She was born April 15, 1888, the daughter of the late Jake and Adeline Honeycutt Webb, and was a member of the United Baptist Church. She was the widow of John Messer, former Johnson County jailer, who preceded her in death August 22, 1951. She is survived by four children: two daughters, Mrs. Ida Spradlin, West Van Lear and Mrs. Hazel Cartwright, Baltimore, MD; two sons, Earl and Frank Messer, both of West Van Lear. She is also survived by three sisters, Mrs. Angie Pack, Van Lear, Mrs. Edith Auxier and Mrs. Mollie Music, East Point, and one brother, McKinley Webb also of East Point. Funeral services were conducted at 1:30 p.m., Monday, October 8, from the Cedar Grove United Baptist Church in West Van Lear with Winfrey Meeks, Grover Fanning and Tommie Dalton as officiating ministers. Burial was in the Webb family cemetery at East Point under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY OCT 10, 1956
PISMOS, George
1956
Death Calls George Pismos Heart Ailment Fatal To Greek Restaurant Operator ON Wednesday, October 17, 1956, death came to Mr. George Pismos, 68, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Steve Clatos on West Main Street. Mr. Pismos, who early in life came to America from Greece, found himself in failing health end came to Paintsville about 8 months ago to make his home with his good friend Steve Clatos. Here he was tenderly cared for by the Clatos family. The cause of his death was heart dropsy. In his last hours, even as one who died on a cross, he reverted to the tongue of childhood days.  As he tossed on his bed and called out in strange speech.  Mr. Catos told his wife that Mr. Pismos was calling for his mother ( Long gone ) in the language of his loved Greece. He was a restaurant operator by occupation. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 19, 1956, at the chapel  of the Paintsville Funeral Home by Rev. Claude Preston, and Rev. Vern Conley.  Hymns were sung by the Paintsville Quartet. Burial was made in the Fairchild Cemetery at Rockhouse under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville herald Wednesday October 24, 1956
ROWLAND, Martha
1899-1956
MARTHA ROWLAND Fuget Resident Dies Saturday
Funeral services were conducted Monday at 11;00 from the home at Fuget for Miss Martha Rowland, 57, who died at her home Saturday, October 6, 1956, at 7:30 a.m., following an illness of several months. Born March 5, 1899 at Fuget, the daughter of Joseph and Bexey Estep Rowland, she was a well- known resident of the community where she lived all her life. Surviving are three sisters; Mary Rowland, Lizzie cantrell and Vannie Frazier all of Fuget; three brothers, Willie Rowland, Volga, and Johnnie and Morgan Rowland, both of Fuget. Elders Tommy Bailey and Lonza Reed conducted the funeral services and burial was in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. NOTE: This cemetery is also known as "LILBURN ESTEP CEMETERY" PAINTSVILLE HERALD OCT.10 1956
SPRADLIN, Lorene
1956-1956
GRAVESIDE RITES HELD FOR LORENE SPRADLIN
Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, October 14, 1956, for Lorene Spradlin, 2- month-old-daughter of Virgil and Lula Blanton Spradlin of this city.  She died of pneumonia at her home at 5:30 a.m., Saturday, October 13, 1956, after an illness of six days. Surviving besides her parents are the following brothers and sisters:  Mrs. Goldia Sexton, Akron, Ohio; Mary Alice, Christine, Margie, Virginia, Brenda Kay, Everett, Ralph, Freddie, Leigh, and Clarence Spradlin all at home. Services were conducted by Rev. Cline Salyers.  Burial was in the Town Cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 10-17-1956
SPRADLIN, Lorinda (Davis)
1956
Services Thursday For Mrs. Lorinda Spradlin
Mrs. Lorinda Spradlin, 91, one of Johnson County's oldest and beloved women, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Henry Barber on Davis Branch at 10:50 p.m. Monday, October 22 1956, after an illness of ten weeks. The daughter of James and Naomi Price Davis, she was born in Johnson County and had resided here all her life. She had been a member of the United Baptist Church for the past sixty two years.  Her husband, James A. Spradlin, preceded her in death thirty-one years ago. Survivors, include another daughter, Mrs. Down Auxier, Madison, Indiana; one step-daughter, Mrs. Hattie Webb, Prestonsburg; one adopted son, John Johnson; one sister, Mrs. Melvin Hall of this city; 12 grandchildren and 4 step-grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted at the home of her daughter on Davis Branch at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, October 25, with Rev. S.C. Honeycutt and C.C. Hall as officiating ministers. Burial will be in the family cemetery at Davis Branch under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY OCT.24 1956
WATSON, Etta Jane (Hauck)
1881-1956
MRS. ETTA WATSON DIES SATURDAY
Mrs. Etta Jane Watson, 75, died in a local hospital Saturday, October 20, (1956) after an illness of three months. Her husband, E. L. Watson, preceded her in death on May 15, 1952. Born July 5, 1881 in Brown County, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late Norval and Manda Patton Hauck. Mrs. Watson had been a resident of Auxier, Ky., for the past 42 years and was a member of the United Brethren Church. She is survived by one son, Dolph Watson, Cleveland, Ohio, and two daughters, Mrs. Emery Gilbert and Mrs. Ora Curnette, both of Auxier, Ky. Funeral services were held Monday morning (Oct. 22, 1956) at the Auxier Methodist Church with the Rev. S. C. Honeycutt officiating. Burial was made in the Auxier Cemetery under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. NOTE: Deathdate figured & entered in this obituary from date of application. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY OCT.24 1956
WHEELER, W.H. Dr.
1877-1956
FUNERAL SERVICES THURSDAY FOR Dr. W. H. WHEELER, 79
HONORED BY STATE AND NATIONAL ASSN.
Dr. W. H. Wheeler, 79, of Olive Hill, died of a heat attack at 10:00 p.m., Monday, October 15,  at King's Daughters' Hospital in Ashland.  He was stricken at his home Saturday morning as he was preparing to leave for his office. A member of one of Johnson County's well-known families, he was born at the Wheeler home place on Hoods Fork of Blaine, October 1, 1877, the son of the late Martin Van Buren and Sarah Justice Wheeler. He was the fifth child of a family of eleven children whose services and activities have contributed greatly to the development and progress of this county and the surrounding area. He was married at Flat Gap in 1901 to Rosa Williams, who preceded him in death 2 1/2 months ago. Also preceding him in death were were two sisters, Lora Alice Wheeler, and Mrs. Julia Dempsey, and three brothers Judge C. B. Wheeler, Dr. J. C. Wheeler and Dr. C. C. Wheeler. His early youth was spent in the Hoods Creek section where he attended the rural schools of the county. Following his graduation from the Knoxville School of Medicine in 1900, he began his medical career at Charley, later moving to West Liberty.  Traveling on horseback through this remote section, "Doc" became a beloved and  welcomed figure as he eased human suffering, dispensed pills and medicine, delivered babies and performed missions of mercy at all hours. As a public servant he followed the way of hard work and sacrifice, untiring in his efforts, giving generously of his own strength, bringing cheer and the healing warmth of compassion as he ministered to the ills of the people. He was respected and held in high esteem by his colleagues in the medical profession.  No more fitting tribute could be made to his fifty-five years of service than to say that as a doctor and humanitarian "He Hath Done  What He Could". After leaving West Liberty, he practiced in Ashland and Pike County, moving to Olive Hill in 1936 where he became a member of the Carter County Chapter of the American Medical Association. In 1950 he received the J. Watts Stovall Award as the outstanding practicing physican in Kentucky. In 1951 he also received  the A.M.A. Fifty-Year Award of Merit at Memphis, Tennessee. He is survived by a  daughter, Mrs Scott E. Roberts, a grandson, Kent Earl Roberts, a sister, Mrs. Louisa May, all of Ashland; four brothers, Judge John W. Wheeler and Attoney M. O. Wheeler, of this city, Franklin Wheeler of Winifred, and Samuel Laney Wheeler of Detroit, Michigan. Funeral services were held Thursday, October 18, at 2:00 p.m. in the First Baptist Church in Olive Hill with the Rev. L. M. Ader officiating.  He was assisted by the Rev. A. O. Allison and the Rev. M. D. Morton of Ashland.  Burial was made in the Ashland Cemetery. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 10-24-1956

NOVEMBER - 1956

ADKINS, Garry Wayne
1956-1956
Services Held Monday For Adkins Infant
Garry Wayne Adkins, four week old son of Ray and Jeanette VanHoose Adkins of Marion, Ohio, died Friday in Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio  He was born November 1, 1956 in Marion, Ohio. Surviving besides his parents are his grandparents, Mr. And Mrs. Everett Adkins of Elkhorn City and Mr. And Mrs. Marshall VanHoose of Thealka Funeral services were conducted at 10 a.m. Monday at the Freewill Baptist Church at Nippa with Claude Preston officiating.  Music was by the Toms Creek Quartet; Burial was made in the VanHoose Cemetery under the directions of the Paintsville Funeral Home Paintsville Herald Wednesday 12-05-1956
BLAIR, Walter
1882-1956
Lifelong Resident of Barnetts Creek Passes Suddenly
Services will be held Thursday morning at the Little Paint United Baptist Church at Oil Springs, for Walter Blair, 74, who died suddenly at his home at Barnetts Creek Tuesday morning. Born November 12, 1882 at Leander, Ky., he was the son of Henry and Nancy Conley Blair.  He had been a resident of Barnetts Creek all of his life and was a well known farmer in that community.  His wife, Margaret, survives. Mr. Blair was a member of the United Baptist Church. Four sons, Hager Blair, Columbus, Ohio; Hargie Blair, Dayton, Ohio, Dennis Blair, and James Blair both of Barnetts Creek; three brothers, Levi Blair, Beaver, Ohio, Andy Blair Leander, Ky., Linzie Blair, Ohio; and one sister, Mrs. Johnnie Fairchilds, Carey, Ohio, also survive in addition to his wife. Prater Blair, Francis Blair, and Monroe Caudill will be the officiating ministers and the burial will be under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 11-18-1956
BLANTON, Judy
1956-1956
Graveside Rites Held For Blanton Infant
Graveside rites were conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday for Judy Blanton, seven-day-old daughter of Claude, Jr., and Wilma Godsey Blanton of Oil Springs. She died in a local hospital Friday night. Surviving besides the parents are two brothers, Charles and Samuel, both at home, and one sister, Peggy, also at home. Burial was made in the Blanton cemetery at Win under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsvlle Herald Wednesday 11-14-1956
BLEVINS, Jesse
1907-1956
Jesse Blevins, 49 Passes Monday After Brief Illness
Services were held Thursday, afternoon for Jesse Blevins, 49, who died Monday in a local hospital after a very brief illness. His wife, Eva Music Blevins survives him. Born July 2 1907 in Johnson County, he was the son of Dick Blevins, who survives, and the late Nora Meade Blevins. He had been a lifelong resident of Van Lear. A coal miner by trade, he was affiliated with Local 5835 United Mine Workers of America. Surviving besides his wife and father are one son, Daniel, of Van Lear; two daughters, Patsy and Phyllis, both at home; two brothers, Paul Blevins, Cliff, Ky.; and Richard Odell Blevins, Warsaw, Michigan; and nine sisters, Mrs. Fannie Wetzel, Jenkins, Ky.; Mrs. Minerva Bartley, Big Branch, Ky.; Mrs. Bertha Williams, Burlington, Ky.; Mrs. Georgia Ayres, Mrs. Audrey Estep, both of Columbus, Ohio; Mrs. Beatrice Marlow, Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Bridget Spradlin, Mrs. Macca Church, and Miss Helen Blevins, all of Van Lear. The Rev. Edgar Hewlett officiated at the funeral service and at the burial which was made in the Club House Cemetery at Van Lear under the direction of the Jones-Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD NOV.21 1956
BOND, Finetta R. (Cox)
1870-1956
Aged Resident Dies Sunday At Red Bush
Mrs. Finetta R. Bond, 86, one of Johnson County's best beloved women, died at her home at Red Bush at 2:20 p.m. Sunday, November 18, following an illness of several weeks. She was the mother of Guy Bond of this city. The daughter of the late William and Hannah Cox, she was born in Virginia June 4, 1870. She was the widow of J. D. Bond, who preceded her in death twenty-one years ago. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Ben Cox, of this city. She was a member of the Methodist Church and her consecrated life of Christian devotion was a source of inspiration to her family and friends.  Her long life was blessed with spiritual wealth, and her days were made rich and full by her capacity for unselfish service to others.  She was a kind and gracious woman beloved by her neighbors and endowed with compassion and sympathetic understanding which endeared her to all who knew her. Surviving besides her son, Guy, are two other sons, Ogden of Shepherd, Michigan, and Don of Red Bush; three daughters, Mrs. Minnie Williams, Mrs. Bertie Holbrook and Mrs. Macie ___. (last portion of obit missing) Paintsville Herald Wednesday November 21, 1956
BOYD, Nora (Walker)
1899-1956
NORA BOYD SERVICES HELD MONDAY AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
Mrs. Nora Boyd, 57, died Friday, November 2, 1956, in a hospital in Gallipolis, Ohio following a heart attack. She had been making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Keith Mitchell in Jackson, Ohio for the past four years. The daughter of the late Robert and Melvina Rollins Walker, she was born in Royal, W.Va., April 4, 1899. She was the widow of Russell Boyd who proceded her in death November 1930. Surviving besides her daughter are a son, Russell Boyd, Gananna, Ohio, and two sisters, Mrs. Ivy Mulchay, Sharonsville, Ohio, and Mrs. Edith Richmond, Sophia, W. Va. Funeral services were conducted at 1:30 p.m., Monday, November 5, from the First Baptist Church in this city with the Rev. M. R. Thomason, pastor, officiating. Burial was in the Mayo Cemetery under the direction of the Jones-Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY NOV.07 1956
BURCHETT, Garfield (Red)
1903-1956
Services Today For Garfield Burchett Heart Attack Victim
Garfield (Red) Burchett, 52, a miner in Mechanicsburg, Ohio, died at his home there Sunday of an acute coronary thrombosis. Formerly of Stambaugh, Ky., he was born December 7, 1903, the son of Noah and Mary Elizabeth Stambaugh Burchett. On Feburary 4, 1924, Mr. Burchett was united in marriage to the former Lucy Williams, who survives. Others surviving are five sons, Paul Vencil Burchett, Annison, Ala., Huey Burchett, Noah Franklin Burchett, both of Dayton, Ohio, Garfield Burchett, Jr., and Jerry Allen Burchett, both of Whittensville, Ky.; four daughters, Mrs. Pauline Preston, Mary Francis Burchett, both of Dayton, Ohio, Jenetta Louise Burchett and Neldia Sue Burchett, both of Wittensville; three brothers, Herb Burchett, Lima, Ohio, Ted Burchett, Stambaugh, Ky., and Jessie Burchett, Wittensville; and two sisters, Mrs. Fred Stambaugh, Wittensville, and Mrs. Rex Stambaugh, Stambaugh, Ky. Services were conducted this morning at the Locust Grove Church and burial was made in the family cemetery at Stambaugh under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 11-28-1956
CASTLE, Laura (Stapleton)
1881-1956
LAURA CASTLE, 75, NIPPA RESIDENT, PASSES TUESDAY
Mrs. Laura Castle, 75, well known resident of Nippa, died in a local hospital at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 20,  following an illness of 6 weeks. She was born in Johnson Co. (Kentucky) July 9, 1881, the daughter of the late William P. and Jennie Hall Stapleton. A loyal and faithful member of the United Baptist Church, untiring in her service to her family and community, her influence will be missed in the locality where she had resided for the past nineteen years. Her husband, Henderson Castle, proceded her in death February 28, 1956. Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Mae Meek, Boons Camp and Mrs. Ollie Dheel, Tacoma, Virginia and three sons, Lester Castle, Lowmansville, Edgar Castle, Nippa and Logan Castle, Stambaugh. Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. Cora Wiley and Mrs. Lucy Van Hoose of this city, and a brother, Marion Stapleton, Laneer. Funeral services were conducted from the Lucust Grove United Baptist Church at 10:00 a. m. Friday, November 23, with F.F. Riggsby, Leonard Walters and Merida Wiley as officiating ministers. Burial was in the family cemetery at Lowmansville under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald 11-28-1956
CHANDLER, Madge (Davis)
1887-1956
Rites Saturday For Well-Known County Woman
Mrs. H. G. Chandler Victim of Cancer
Funeral services were conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 10, 1956, for Mrs. Madge Chandler, 69, one of the county’s well-known women and wife of H. G. Chandler of Chandlerville. Mrs. Chandler died at her home at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, November 8, 1956, a victim of cancer after a three month’s illness. A daughter of the late Willie and Malissa Green Davis, she was born in Johnson County, Friday, August 5, 1887.  She was a member of the United Baptist Church and was a loyal and faithful advocate of its principles.  One of the most respected and beloved women of the Chandlerville locality, she was a devoted Christian mother and a good neighbor and her influence will be missed in the community where she had spent all of her life. Survivors include besides her husband and two sons, Earl “Red” Chandler, Van Lear, manager of The Dependable Supply Company of this city and Lowell Chandler, Chandlerville; one daughter, Mrs. Mae Daniel, Ashland; and one half-sister, Lillie Davis. Funeral services were conducted from the Hoods Fork United Baptist Church with Arthur Morris and Bruce Daniel as officiating ministers. Burial was in the church cemetery at Winifred under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 11-14-1956 Obituary Mrs. Madge Davis Chandler, a devoted mother, wife and friend to all who knew her, departed this life Thursday, November 8, 1956. She was born Friday, August 5, 1887, the daughter of the late Willie and Malissa Green Davis of Chandlerville, Kentucky.  One sister, Eva Davis Nickels, preceded her in death.  One half- sister, Lillie Davis, resides at Huntington, West Virginia. Mrs. Chandler married H. G. Chandler, leading teacher and educator in Johnson County and uncle of Frank Chandler of Paintsville Friday, June 17, 1904.  To this union were born four children, William Roy, who died in infancy, Veston Earl Chandler, Paintsville, manager of The Dependable Supply Company, Mae Chandler Daniel, Ashland, Kentucky and Lowell G. Chandler at home. Mrs. Chandler spent her youth, school days and life in the Chandlerville community, and began her Christian life in 1921 when she joined the Hoods Fork United Baptist Church and continued a useful and devoted member until her death.  She enjoyed the love and respect of all the people in her neighborhood and community, as well as those she met and knew in Lawrence, Boyd and surrounding counties. Mrs. Chandler reared a family of respected and influential citizens, who had an undying love for her, and a never faltering faith in her love and service from their childhood on through life. Her life was made beautiful by her devotion to her family, her Christian leadership and friendship and service for all her associates, neighbors and friends.  They way she lived and served has left an impression in the hearts and memory of her family and friends which will linger affectionately through the years to come. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 11-14-1956
CHEEK, Budge
1888-1956
BUDGE CHEEK RITES HELD TUESDAY
A stroke suffered at his home in Tomahawk Ky, brought death to Mr. Budge Cheek on Sunday afternoon, November 18, 1956. Born January 2, 1888 in Johnson County, he was the son of James and Mary Jane Bishop Cheek and had been a resident of Tomahawk for thirty nine years, being a well-known farmer of that section. He was a member of the Free Will Baptist Church. On May 21, 1907, at Winn, Ky, he was united in marriage to Minta Young Cheek, who survives. Surviving in addition to his wife are three sons, Buell, Tomahawk, Ky; Edward, Paulding, Ohio; and Clyde, Mansfield, Ohio; two daughters, Mrs. Mae Conley, Long Branch, W Va; and Mrs. Mrs. Esta Daniels, Paulding, Ohio.  Twenty-seven grandchildren and twenty-four great grandchildren, one brother, Billy Cheek, Minefork, Ky and two sisters, Mrs. Ellen Cantrell, Sunberry, Ohio; Mrs. Della Wynn of Ashland, Ky, who is the aunt of  Mr. Carl Wynn of Paintsville. Services were held Tuesday afternoon, November 20, 1956 at the Philip Cove Free Will Baptist Church at Tomahawk, Ky, with the Rev. Mack Providence officiating. Burial was made in the Wilson Cemetery at Tomahawk under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY NOV.21 1956
COLVIN, Albert
1868-1956
Denver Resident Dies Saturday; Services Sunday
Albert Colvin, 88, son of the late Joel and Josephine Conley Colvin, died Saturday, November 17, at his home in Denver, Ky., after a brief illness. Born in Johnson County on August 4, 1868, Mr. Colvin had been a lifelong resident of Denver. He was a farmer and former law enforcement officer having served under Harry and Fred Adams as constable and deputy sheriff.  He was affiliated with the Order of Red Men and belonged to the Church of God. Mr. Colvin was united in marriage to the former Laura Spradlin, who preceded him in death in May of 1949 and to this union were born the following sons and daughters who survive his passing:  Morris and Estill Colvin, both of Paintsville; Claude Colvin, Staffordsville, Ky.; and Roy Colvin, Baltimore, Md.; Mrs. Clara Kestner, Hager Hill, Ky.; Mrs. Elsie Hitchcock, Denver, Ky.; Mrs. Beulah Arms, Leander, Ky.; Mrs. Shelly Blair, Chillicothe, Ohio; and Mrs. Stella Biser, Cincinnati, Ohio. One sister, Mrs. Lucy Dunn who resides in California, also survives. Services were held Sunday afternoon at the home with the Rev. Moses Kitchen officiating.  Music was furnished by the Spradlin singers.  Burial was made in the family cemetery at Asa, Ky., under the directions of the Jones-Preston Funeral Home Paintsville Herald Wednesday 11-21-1956
CONLEY, Clara (Mollett)
1956
Mrs. Clara Conley Taken By Death Friday, Nov. 16
Mrs. Clara Conley, one of the best loved women in Paintsville, died early Friday morning in Paintsville Hospital after an extended illness. She was born at Greasy Creek in Johnson County, a daughter of the late John. R. and Alice Davis Mollett. Her husband, Frank J. Conley, who survives, owned and operated the Paintsville Furniture Company before his retirement about a year ago. Mrs. Conley was active in the Order of the Eastern Star, having served as worthy matron of Paintsville Chapter No. 320 and grand representative of the state of Maine. But first and foremost always was her loyalty and devotion to her church.  She was a member of the Mayo Methodist Church and was a charter member of its Woman's Society of Christian Service. She served as treasurer of the Society, with the exception of a year or so, from the time of its inception.  She also was a member of the Women's Bible Class. Her lofty ideals and Christian principles were applied to every part of her everyday living and exemplified those verses in Proverbs which state "in her tongue is the law of kindness.  She looketh well to the ways of her household and cateth not the bread of idleness.  Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.  Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates." Mrs. Conley's friendly smile and jovial personality will be sorely missed by her many friends and neighbors in Paintsville. Surviving in addition to her husband are four daughters, Mrs. Roger Stewart of Paintsville, Mrs. Emmit Ogden of Carrollton, Ky., Mrs. Bill Harris of Wheelwright, and Mrs. Carl Swisher of Huntington, W. Va.; two brothers, Ben Mollett of Phoenix, Ariz. and Joe Mollett of Columbus, Ohio, and seven grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Mayo Methodist Church with the Rev. Charles Dearing and the Rev. Charles Perry officiating. Burial was made in the Richmond Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Pallbearers were as follows: Wm. B. Hazelrigg, Phillip Jenkins, Russell L. Kirk, Harry Roberts, Joe Radcliffe, Wm. Johnson, K. B. Williams, Maurice Bailey and Scott Craft. Paintsville Herald Wednesday November 21, 1956
FAIRCHILD, Bobby Ray
1939-1956
Obituary Bobby Ray Fairchild departed from this life November 3, 1956, at Carey, Ohio, at the age of 17 years, 6 months and 26 days. He was born April 8, 1939, the son of John G. and Mary Jane Blair Fairchild. A loyal and loving son and brother, he leaves to mourn his loss his father and mother residing at Carey, Ohio; two brothers Cecil Fairchild of Vanlue, OH; Prater Fairchild, Collista; three sisters, Mrs. Junior May, Vanlue, OH; Mrs. Aivis Hannah, Alvada, OH, and Mrs. Donald Coldiron, Findlay, OH. He also leaves numerous relatives and friends who had learned to love his friendly nature and jovial disposition. “A loving one from us is gone,  A voice we loved is still A vacancy in our home That never can be filled.” Is Killed Instantly Ohio Wreck Fatal To County Youth Bobby Ray Fairchild, 17 was killed in an automobile accident at Carey, Ohio, Saturday, November 3. Cause of death was listed as a fractured skull. Traveling at a fast rate of speed around a curve, Mr. Fairchild is said to have lost control of his car, skidding across the highway into the path of an oncoming truck. His car was struck broadside by the truck and lacked only a few inches being completely shirred in half. He was alone in the car at the time. The son of John and Mary Blair Fairchild, he was born at Leander, KY, April 8, 1929, but had been a resident of Carey, Ohio for the past six years where he was employed as a mechanic. Surviving besides his parents are two brothers, Cecil Fairchild of Collista, KY; and three sisters, Mrs. Fannie May, Vanlue, Ohio, Mrs. Ethel Hannah, Alvada, Ohio, and Mrs. Lexie Caldiron, Findlay, Ohio. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the Collista Free Will Baptist Church with Claude Preston, Scott Castle, and Don Fraley officiating. Burial was made in the Bayes Cemetery at Swamp Branch under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY NOV 28, 1956
FITCH, Willie H.
1910-1956
Former Resident Killed In Ohio Auto Accident
Services At Old Hood  For Willie H. Fitch
Willie H. Fitch, 45, formerly of Kerz, was killed in an automobile accident at East Portsmouth, Ohio, Thursday, November 22, 1956, at 8:45 a.m. Fitch who was driving alone at the time of the accident, received a broken neck and factured (fractured) skull when his automobile left the highway.  He was a brother of Horner Fitch of this city. The son of 84-year-old Charles Fitch of Kerz and the late Malissa Ross Fitch, he was born in this county Tuesday, December 6, 1910.  He had lived at Wheelersburg, Ohio, for the past five years and was employed as a mechanic in a steel mill.  He was a member of the C.I.O.  United Steel Workers. Surviving besides his father and brother are his widow, Vesta Harris Fitch; one daughter, Darlene Fitch, at home; three sons, Willard Fitch, Springfield, Ohio; Wilbur Fitch, Denver, Colorado, and Eugene Fitch at home.  Also surviving are the following brothers and sisters; Sampson Fitch, Kerz; Lloyd Fitch, New Boston, Ohio; Dennis Fitch, Wilbur; Selcie Fitch, Ashland, Burell Fitch, Springfield, Ohio, and Mrs. Eula Burchett and Miss. Neva Fitch both of Kerz. Funeral services were conducted from the Old Hood United Baptist Church at 11:00 a., Sunday, November 25, 1956, with Arthur Morris and Edward Salyers as officiating ministers.  Burial was in the Old Hood Cemetery at Winifred under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 11-28-1956
GRIM, Emma (Lemaster)
1874-1956
Aged Resident of Johnson County Dies In Lexington
Emma Lemaster Grim, 82, died of pneumonia Friday, in a Lexington hospital after a brief illness.  Although a patient in the hospital for some time, she had been seriously ill only two weeks prior to her death. The daughter of William and Sally Crum Lemaster of Inez, Ky., she was born June 14, 1874, and was a resident of Wittensville, Ky., and the widow of the late Sam Grim, to whom she was united in marriage in December of 1934. A member of the United Baptist Church, it was said that to know Mrs. Grim was to know the sincerity and earnestness of her Christian profession,  Knowing well the teachings of her Lord, she tried diligently always to fulfill them. Having earned at last the reward for the faithful of rest and peace, she surely has heard the words of commendation.  "Well done, thou good and faithful servant.  Enter thou into the joys of they Lord". Four step-children, Farris Grim, Mrs. Sarah Grim and Mrs. Fanny Williams, all of Stambaugh, Ky.,,survive in addition to two nephews, J. L. Preston, Wittensville, Ky., and Dr. T. R. Preston, Lowmansville. Services were held at the Locust Grove United Baptist Church of which Mrs. Grim was a member, with the Rev. F. F. Rigsby officiating. Burial was made in the Preston Cemetery at Lowmansville under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 12-5-1956
HALL, Linnie (Music)
1870-1956
ADELINE ROBINSON, 77, LINNIE HALL, 86, CALLED BY DEATH
Death and tragedy struck in a widely known Johnson County family during the past week, taking two sisters, Mrs. Linnie Hall, 86, of Meally and Mrs. Adeline Robinson of East Point. Mrs. Robinson, 77, died of burns Monday afternoon at her home after her clothing ignited from a gas furnace in the cottage where she lived near her daughter, Mrs John Auxier. Her body was found by members of the family who were attracted to the scene by smoke from the building. She had been in ill health for several years, but her tragic death came as a great shock to the East Point vicinity where she was loved and well known as a "good" woman. She was a member of the East Point Church of Christ. Familiarly known as "Aunt Add" she is mourned not only by her loved ones, but by a host of friends and neighbors. Surviving are three sons, Wm. Robinson, of East Point; Jay Robinson, West Van Lear; George Ernest Robinson, Maytown, Ky; two daughters, Mrs. Stella Auxier, East Point; and Mrs. Dorothy Hall, Fon Du Lac, Wis. Others survivors of Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Hall are two sisters, Mrs. J.E. Akers of West Van Lear, and Mrs. Lon Goble, of Lancer, Ky.; and one brother, Wm. Music of Auxier, Ky.; also a number of grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday at the East Point Church of Christ by Reverend S.C. Honeycutt. Burial will be made in the family cemetery at East Point by the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Mrs. Hall died Thursday Novemeber 22, 1956, at Meally after suffering a stroke two weeks earlier. She was a loyal and faithful member of the Church of Christ and had been a resident of Meally for the past forty-eight years. She was known in her community as a good Christian woman. She was born at East Point on June 30 1870, and was preceded in death by her husband, Martin M. Hall, who passed away on November 14 1945. Four sons and three daughters survive, they are Jim Hall, Hatcher Hall, and Paul Hall, all of Meally; Virgil Hall, Logan, W. Va.; Mrs. Verna Music, East Point, Ky.; Mrs. Virgie Walters and Mrs. Lucille Short, both of Meally. Services were conducted Sunday afternoon at the Church of Christ at Meally, with the Rev. J.H. Short officiating. Burial was made in the Hall Cemetery at Meally under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Hall were the daughters of Abraham and Nan Jones Music, members of pioneer families who migrated to Kentucky from Virginia. Paintsville Herald Nov.28 1956
HITCHCOCK, Grant, Jr.
1924-1956
GRANT HITCHCOCK VICTIM OF CANCER AFTER LONG ILLNESS
Grant Hitchcock, Jr., 32, a lifelong resident of Paintsville, died Wednesday morning, November 7, in a local hospital following an illness of a year. Death was attributed to a cerebral hemorrhage as a result of cancer. Born Feb. 25, 1924, in Johnson County, he was the son of the late Grant Hitchcock and Minnie Roberts Hitchcock, who survives him. Prior to his illness he was employed in maintenance work and at one time was employed by the Big Sandy Motor Co., Inc.  He was a preacher in the Freewill Baptist Church, being active and faithful as long as it was possible to do so. Surviving besides his mother, are his wife, Mary Grace Hitchcock, two sons, Gary Grant and Jimmy Andrew; two daughters, Patricia and Vickie Ann: five brothers, Mitchell, James, Dallas, and Carl, all of Paintsville, and Clarence, Cincinnati, Ohio; and three sisters, Mrs. Margaret Boyd, Red Jacket, W. Va., Mrs. Mildred Daniel, Columbus, Ohio; and Emma of Paintsville. Services were held Sunday morning at the Third Street Freewill Baptist Church with Claude Preston and Vern Conley officiating. Music was furnished by the Tom's Creek Singers. Burial was made in the Turner Branch Cemetary under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Active pallbearers were Charlie Nolan, Gene Butcher, Reenie Salyers, Chester Collins, Jack Stratton, Paul Pack, Forest Mollette and Maurich Butcher. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY Nov. 14, 1956
KITCHEN, Rev. Henry
1870-1956
Rev. Henry Kitchen Passes Friday At East Point
Rev. Henry Kitchen, 86, father of Rev. Moses Kitchen, died at his home in East Point, Ky., Friday morning, November 9 1956, after an illness of three weeks. Born August 19 1870, in Boyd County, Kentucky, he was the son of John F. and Rebekah Ratliff Kitchen. On August 28 1898 he was united in marriage to Hulda Sexton Kitchen, who preceded him in death on March 24 1950. Rev. Kitchen was a minister of the First Church of God and his long and useful life is shown by the fact that two of his sons followed him in becoming preachers. He is survived by three sons, Rev. Moses Kitchen, East Point, Ky.; Rev. Isaac Kitchen, and Jacob Kitchen, both of Madison, W. Va.; three daughters, Mrs. Golda Tussey, Hitchens, Ky.; Mrs. Haley Smith, Portsmouth, Va.; and Miss Hattie Kitchen, East Point, Ky.; one brother Elihu Kitchen, Stalling, W. Va.; twenty grandchildren and twenty one great grandchildren. Funeral services were held Sunday morning at the East Point Church of God with Scott Griffith and Roy Benton officiating ministers. Burial was made in the family cemetery at East Point under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY NOV.14 1956
MCFARLAN, Cena
1874-1956
CENA McFARLAN, 82, SOUTHSIDE RESIDENT PASSES THURSDAY
Cena McFarlan, 82, died at her home at Southside Thursday November 1, 1956 at 3:30 a.m. following an illness of four months. Born in Magoffin County October 15, 1874, she had resided in Paintsville most of her life. She was a member of the First Methodist Church of this city and was employed in its service for a number of years. She is survived by a foster son, Bruce Castle of Cincinnati, Ohio. Funeral services were held at the First Methodist Church at 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 2, 1956 with the pastor, Rev. W. F. Petus officiating.  Burial was in the Powers Cemetery at Lakeland, Ky. under the direction of the Jones Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday November 7, 1956
MUSIC, Sally (Mollett)
1956
FORMER EAST POINT RESIDENT DIES IN GRAND RAPIDS, MICH.
Mrs. Sally Music, 48, wife of A.J. Music, died in a hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Wednesday morning, November 7 1956. Death was caused by cancer. She was born in East Point, the daughter of James Mollett and the late Alice Sammons Mollett. She was a member of the Freewwill Baptist Church. Surviving besides her husband are two sons, Don and Eugene, both of Grand Rapids. Four sisters, and three brothers also survive. Funeral services were held at the Van Lear Baptist Church at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 10, with Charlie Lemaster and Edgar Hewlett as officiating ministers. Burial was in the family cemetery at East Point under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD NOV.14 1956
PELPHREY, Mary (Fox)
Mary Pelphrey, 90, Succumbs Sunday After Long Illness
Mrs. Mary Pelphrey, 90, a member of one of the oldest and most prominent families in the county, died Sunday morning November 25, 1956, at her home on Euclid Avenue, city, after an illness of several months. She was born in Johnson County on February 13, 1866, the daughter of Andrew and Rachel Turner Fox and had lived here all her life.  Her husband, Jesse Pelphrey, preceded her in death a few years ago.  Mrs. Pelphrey was a charter member of the Revekah Lodge. A member of the First Methodist Church of this city, she attended its services faithfully until some years prior to her death when she was injured in a fall at her home.  Being confined to her home, she always had a special welcome for her minister. Aunt Mary was one of those rare Christian souls who make it a practice never to speak evil of their fellowmen, and was sincere, gentle, and gracious in all her relationships with those about her into her life came the usual adversities, but no word of complaint and no grumbling escaped her lips. One of our poets penned these words, based on the exhortation of  an Old Testament prophet: “ What doth the Lord require of thee But to love justice and mercy And to walk humbly with they God Filling thy life with a reasonable service of good deeds?” This “Aunt” Mary Fulfilled. Three sons, Guy Pelphrey, Arnold, MD, Harry Pelphrey, Detroit, Mich., and Walter Pelphrey, Grand Rapids, Mich. survive to mourn her passing Mrs. Pelphrey, was the aunt of Virginia and Harriet Mae Dixon of Staffordsville. Services were held this afternoon in the chapel of the Paintsville Funeral Home with the Rev. W. F. Pettus, pastor of the First Methodist Church, officiating.  Burial was made in the Dixon Cemetery. Paintsville Herald Wednesday November 28, 1956
PICKLESIMER, Helen Jean (Davis)
1926-1956
Mrs. Leo Picklesimer Dies in Ohio Hospital
Mrs. Helen Jean Picklesimer, 30, died Tuesday morning in a Findlay, Ohio, hospital following an illness of a few days. Born at Barnetts Creek, she was the daughter of Johnnie and Mattie Lemaster Davis.  She is survived by her husband, Leo Picklesimer; two daughters, Delpha Jeane and Janalee Picklesimer, both at home; and three sisters, Mrs. Alcus Ward, Findlay, Ohio, Mrs. John Pelphrey, St. Albans, W. Va., and Ella Frances Davis, Findlay, Ohio. Services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday at the Barnetts Creek United Baptist Church. Burial will be under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald  Wednesday 11/14/1956  Obituary  Helen Jean Davis Picklesimer was born September 4, 1926, and departed this life November 13, 1956, age 30 years, 2 months, 9 days. On June 17, 1950, she was united in marriage to Leo Picklesimer.  Three children wee born to this union, Delphia Jean, 4, Jana Lee, 2, and Helen Fay, who died in infancy. Besides her husband and children, she is survived by her parents, Mr. And Mrs. Johnnie Davis, Barnetts Creek, three sisters, Mrs. Alcus Ward, Findlay, Ohio, Mrs, John R. Pelphrey, St. Albans, W. Va., and Ella Frances Davis, Findlay, Ohio, grandmother, Mrs. Mary Ann Davis, Manila, and a host of relatives and friends. She was converted and baptised in April, 1944, and took fellowship with the United Baptist Church at Barnetts Creek.  She lived a faithful life unto her Christian duty and family.  She spent most of her life at Barnetts Creek until she moved to Findlay, Ohio, in 1952. "A loving one from us is gone, A voice we loved is still, A vacancy in our home That never can be filled." Paintsville Herald  11/21/1956 
ROBINSON, Adeline (Music)
1956
ADELINE ROBINSON, 77, LINNIE HALL, 86,  CALLED BY DEATH
Death and tragedy struck in a widely known Johnson County family during the past week, taking two sisters, Mrs. Linnie Hall, 86, of Meally and Mrs. Adeline Robinson of East Point. Mrs. Robinson, 77, died of burns Monday afternoon at her home after her clothing ignited from a gas furnace in the cottage where she lived near her daughter, Mrs John Auxier. Her body was found by members of the family who were attracted to the scene by smoke from the building. She had been in ill health for several years, but her tragic death came as a great shock to the East Point vicinity where she was loved and well known as a "good" woman. She was a member of the East Point Church of Christ. Familiarly known as "Aunt Add" she is mourned not only by her loved ones, but by a host of friends and neighbors. Surviving are three sons, Wm. Robinson, of East Point; Jay Robinson, West Van Lear; George Ernest Robinson, Maytown, Ky; two daughters, Mrs. Stella Auxier, East Point; and Mrs. Dorothy Hall, Fon Du Lac, Wis. Others survivors of Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Hall are two sisters, Mrs. J.E. Akers of West Van Lear, and Mrs. Lon Goble, of Lancer, Ky.; and one brother, Wm. Music of Auxier, Ky.; also a number of grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday at the East Point Church of Christ by Reverend S.C. Honeycutt. Burial will be made in the family cemetery at East Point by the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Mrs. Hall died Thursday Novemeber 22, 1956, at Meally after suffering a stroke two weeks earlier. She was a loyal and faithful member of the Church of Christ and had been a resident of Meally for the past forty-eight years. She was known in her community as a good Christian woman. She was born at East Point on June 30 1870, and was preceded in death by her husband, Martin M. Hall, who passed away on November 14 1945. Four sons and three daughters survive, they are Jim Hall, Hatcher Hall, and Paul Hall, all of Meally; Virgil Hall, Logan, W. Va.; Mrs. Verna Music, East Point, Ky.; Mrs. Virgie Walters and Mrs. Lucille Short, both of Meally. Services were conducted Sunday afternoon at the Church of Christ at Meally, with the Rev. J.H. Short officiating. Burial was made in the Hall Cemetery at Meally under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Hall were the daughters of Abraham and Nan Jones Music, members of pioneer families who migrated to Kentucky from Virginia. Paintsville Herald Nov.28 1956
SELVAGE, Ada Black (Chasteen)
1893-1956
Mrs. Ada Selvage Dies Saturday
Services Held Monday For Denver Resident
Mrs. Ada Selvage, 63, died Saturday morning at her home at Denver, following an illness of six months. Her death was attributed to cancer. Born June 6 1893, in Rockcastle County, she was the daughter of the late Arch Chasteen and Martiller Allen Chasteen, who survives. She had been a resident of Denver for eight years, and she was a member of the Baptist Church. She was preceded in death March 21 1943, by her first husband, John Will Black. She was married on November 24 1948 to Harry B. Selvage, who survives. She is also survived by four sons, Walker Lee Black, Fairborn, Ohio; Henry E. Black, of Peoria, Ill.; Oventon Joe Black, Miamaisburg, Ohio; and Billy A. Black, Dayton, Ohio; two daughters, Mrs. Bonnie Seeker, West Manchester, Ohio; and Mrs. Tillie Cochran, Dayton, Ohio; three brothers, Dave, John, and Oscar Chasteen, all of Dayton, Ohio; and three sisters, Miss Effie Bell Chasteen, Mrs. Quemile Rayner, and Mrs. Ethel Tallis, all of Dayton. Funeral services were conducted at 2:00 p.m. Monday in Dayton, Ohio. Burial was made at Bear Creek Cemetery in Dayton under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD NOV.14 1956
SPARKS, Howard
1909-1956
Heart Attack Proves Fatal To Howard Sparks
Services Saturday For Prominent Man Howard Sparks, 47, one of Paintsville’s most prominent and best-liked citizens died Thursday morning, November 8, at his home on Davis Branch after suffering a heart attack.  He had been stricken with a previous attack some time ago but had resumed his usual activities until just a few days prior to his death. A friendly, genial man, he was liked by all who knew him.  He had a ready smile and a cordial word for everyone he met, and was always ready to lend a helping hand.  He will be sorely missed. Born November 27, 1909 in Johnson County, Mr. Sparks was the son of Alonzo and Delilah Sparks, both of whom preceded him in death.  He had been a life long resident of Paintsville with the exception of a short stay in Florida. He formerly owned and operated the Sparks Service Station in Stafford Addition and at the time of death was employed as a salesman for the Firestone store.  He also had served on the Paintsville School Board. He leaves to mourn his passing his widow, Lesta Cantrell Sparks, two daughters, Mrs. Russell Meade, Jr., city, and Diane, at home, and three sisters, Mrs. Walter Green, Mrs. Leroy Castle, both of Columbus, Ohio, and Mrs. Selce Fitch, Ashland, Ky. Funeral services were held Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at the United Baptist Church in Paintsville, with the Rev. F. F. Rigsby and the Rev. Cullie Sparks officiating.  Burial was made in the Richmond Cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Robert Perry, W. P. Auxier, Russell Meade, Sr., Ross Lyon, Oakley Sparks, Jack VanHoose, Henry Holbrook, Tom Steele, Ralph Preston, tom Butler and Callie Joseph. William Howard Sparks was born November 27, 1909 and departed this life Thursday morning at seven o’clock, November 8, 1956, being 46 years, 11 months and 11 days of age. He was the son of the late Alonzo and Delila McGuire Sparks. He was married to Miss Lesta Cantrell in March of 1934. He is survived by his wife and two daughters, Mrs. Russell Meade, Jr., of Paintsville, and Dianne Sparks, at home. He is also survived by three sisters, Mrs. Walter Greene and Mrs. Leroy Castle of Columbus, Ohio and Mrs. Selce Fitch of Ashland, Ky., two grandsons, Russell and Stephen Howard Meade, and other relatives. At the time of his death, Howard was employed as a salesman for the Firestone Company in Paintsville. Howard was born in Johnson County and had lived the greater part of his life in Paintsville, except for a few years during which he resided in St. Petersburg, Fla. He was one of Johnson County’s best known and best loved citizens.  He had been in business in Paintsville a number of years and there is scarcely a person in the city who had not come in contact with his cordial personality and warm generosity. Howard was a devoted husband and father, a wonderful brother and a kind friend.  He was a man who stood ever ready to help his fellow man in any way he could.  His smile and cheerful manner were evidence of the kindness of his heart.  He was truly interested in the welfare of all and always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. It can truthfully be said that Howard’s friends were as numerous as his acquaintances for to know Howard was to love him. Paintsville has lost one of its finest citizens and his family has lost a faithful beloved one, but those who sadly mourn him now can find peace in the assurance that Howard had gone to live with the Father with whom he was talking unto the very end of his life, and that they will be with Howard once more in the dawn of the Bright Eternal Tomorrow. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 11-14-1956
STURGILL, Bert
1913-1956
BERT STURGILL, 43 SUCCUMBS AT HOME; HEART ATTACK FATAL
Services were held Friday morning at the Little Friendship United Baptist Church at Boons Camp, Ky., for Bert Sturgill, 43, who died of a heart attack at his home Tuesday evening, November 20. Born January 24, 1913, at Boons Camp, he had been a life-long resident of that community.  He was the son of N. R. Sturgill, deceased, and Elizabeth Mollett Sturgill, who survives. Surviving in addition to his mother are three brothers, Bill Sturgill, Naugatuck, W. Va., Nim Sturgill, Boons Camp, and Frank Sturgill, Louisa, Ky., and four sisters, Mrs. Susie Necessary, Mrs. Beulah Mills, and Mrs. Stella Mills, all of Tomahawk, Ky., and Mrs. Maude Kennedy, Emmett, W. Va. Earl Muncy, Leonard Walters, and Arthur Priest were the officiating ministers and burial rites were conducted at the Mollett Cemetery at Boons Camp under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 28, 1956
STAPLETON, Effie (Crider)
1887-1956
Effie Stapleton, Kerz Resident, Dies Thursday Suffering a stroke several weeks ago, Mrs. Effie Stapleton, 69, of Kerz, Ky., died at her home on Thursday morning, November 22 1956. The daughter of Alfred and Elizabeth Wells Crider, she was born September 22, 1887 in Johnson County. She was united in marriage to Monterville Stapleton, deceased. Mrs. Stapleton  was a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church and was a good Christian and faithful attendant at the services of her church, as long as was possible for her to do so. Two daughters, Mrs. Farlin Bartley, and Mrs. Francis McKenzie, both of Kerz, survive. Surviving in addition to her daughters are two brothers, Homer Crider, Prestonsburg, Ky., Bill Crider, Stambaugh, Ky., one half-brother, James Crider; and three sisters, Julia Adkins and Joshie Hazelett, both of Paintsville, and Bessie Hicks of Detroit, Mich. The Rev. Bruce Daniel officiated at the services held at the Kertz Enterprise Baptist Church, Saturday afternoon. The Toms Creek Quartet furnished the music. Burial was under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home and was made in the family cemetery at Kertz. PAINTSVILLE HERALD NOV.28 1956
VANHOOSE, Miranda (Daniel)
1875-1956
Funeral Services To Be Held Friday For Prominent Woman
Miranda Daniel Van Hoose, 81, mother of Senator Wendell Van Hoose, of Tudor Key, died at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in a local hospital after an illness of several months. She was the widow of Fred Van Hoose, a former state senator from this district who died in 1944. He was one of the leading fruit growers in Eastern Kentucky. Mrs. Van Hoose was one of the county's most respected women and she leaves a large family of relatives and friends throughout this area who are saddened by news of her passing. Born May 14, 1875 in the Toms Creek vicinity, she was a daughter of William and Rachel Van Hoose Daniel. She was a member of the United Baptist Church and was a devout Christian, always interested in the spiritual welfare of her community, and devoted to her home, family, and friends. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. John Preston, Tutor Key; Mrs. Anna Ruth Wheeler, Fairborn, O.; two sons, Senator Wendell Van Hoose and Perry Van Hoose, member of the Johnson County Board of Education, both of Tutor Key; fourteen grandchildren an 12 great grandchildren. She leaves also the following step-children, Hobart VanHoose, Brooklyn, W. Va., Roger Van Hoose, Toledo, Ohio, Quimby Van Hoose, Tutor, Key, Mrs. Edna Sparks, Toledo, Ohio, one brother, W. E. Daniel, Seco, Ky., and one sister, Mrs. Emma Spears, city. Services will be held at 11:00 Friday morning at the United Baptist Church at Tudor Key with Reverand Cullie Sparks officiating. Burial will be made in the Van Hoose Cemetery at Tutor Key under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 11-28-1956
WALLER, Infant
1956-1956
Waller Infant Rites Conducted From Home Tuesday Afternoon
Services were held Tuesday afternoon at the home on Daniels Creek for the day-old infant son born to Cecil and Minnie Crum Waller Monday morning. Surviving besides the parents are eighth brothers and two sisters. Grover Fannin officiated and burial rites were conducted at the family cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday November 28, 1956
WARD, Henry
1893-1956
Meally Resident Dies In Ohio While On Visit
Henry Ward, 63, of Meally Ky., died in General Hospital, Marion, Ohio, Friday after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage at the home his daughter, Mrs. Ana Davis, where he had gone for a visit. A farmer at Meally, he was born in Johnson County, September 12, 1893, the son of Hezikiah and Mary Fraley Ward.  He was married to Malta Trimble Ward, who survives. One son, Henry Paul Ward, with the U. S. Army at Barstow, Calif.; three daughters, Mrs. Betty Phipps of Meally, Mrs. Mary Colvin, Ypsilanti, Mich., and Mrs. Ann Davis, Marion, Ohio and three brothers, Fred Ward, Staffordsville, Ky., Jim Ward, Maysville, Ky., and Wash Ward, Dayton, Ohio, also survive. Services were held at 10:00 a.m. Monday at the Staffordsville United Baptist Church with Cullie Sparks and Lonzie Reed officiating.  Burial was in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 11-28-1956
DECEMBER - 1956


ADAMS, Harry
1942-1956
14-Year Old Youth Dies At Fairborn, O
Harry Adam, 14, son of Mrs. Laura Adams Cremeens of Fairborn, Ohio, died at 11:30 p.m. December 7, 1956, after an illness of one year.  He was born at Hager Hill on July 5, 1942, and had lived in Ohio for the past 11 years Surviving besides his mother is his stepfather Oscar Cremeens. Funeral service were held at 11:00 a. m. Monday at the Music Cemetery at Hager Hill by the Reverend Elmer Pack Burial was under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 12-12-1956
CHANDLER, Jeff
1898-1956
Funeral Services For Jeff Chandler Held Friday
Funeral services were held Friday for Jeff Chandler, 58, of Lowmansville who died at his home on December 4, following an illness of six weeks. Final rites were conducted at the graveside by Chandlerville Masonic Lodge No. 358. Born at River, Ky., on March 16, 1898, he was the son of the late Louis and Corda Reed Chandler.  He was a merchant and postmaster of Lowmansville for many years. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Ethel Hayes Chandler; two daughters, Mrs. Bruce Castle and Mrs. Paul Smith of Lowmansville; a son, Kenneth Chandler of Colonial Heights, Va., a sister, Mrs. John B. Brown of Ashland, Ky., and one grandchild. Paintsville Herald Thursday December 12, 1956

COLVIN, Alice (Fairchild)
1870-1956
Mrs. Alice Colvin, 86, died at 6:00 a.m. Saturday, December 15 1956, at Collista at the home of her son, Manford Colvin, with whom she was making her home. She had been ill for the past several years. The daughter of the late Tom and Jane Conley Fairchild, she was born in this county March 30 1870. She was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving besides her son are, three other sons, Earl of Beaver, Ohio; Tom of Wakefield, Ohio; and Jeff of Oil Springs; six daughters, Myrtle Blanton, McDowell; Mollie Hitchcock, Stockdale, Ohio; Sarah Bailey, Beaver, Ohio; Sis Bailey, Jackson, Ohio; May Blanton, Martha; and Maxie Cantrell, Mindfork. She also leaves one brother, Henry Fairchild, Low Gap; and three sisters, Mrs. Sarah Blanton, of this city; Mrs. Mary McCarty, West Liberty; and Mrs. Edd Blanton, Low Gap. Funeral services were conducted at 10:00 a.m. December, 17, at the home of her son, Manford with Adron Davis as the officiating minister. Music was by the Tom's Creek Quartet. Burial was in the family cemetery at Low Gap under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY DEC.19 1956
  
CONLEY, Ellis C.
1883-1956
Ellis C. Conley Dies Suddenly of Heart Attack
Services Held Sunday For Public Accountant Ellis C. Conley, former resident of this city, died unexpectedly of a heart attack at his home in Huntington, W. Va., Thursday, December 13. He was the uncle of T. W. Conley of this city. He was born in Aug. of 1883 in Johnson County, a son of the late Samuel and Sarah Conley. He was married at Catlettsburg in 1940 to Miss Estella Chatfield who survives. Mr. Conley was a certified public accountant and was in his office in the First National Bank Building the day before his fatal attack. He had been a resident of Huntington for the past thirty-six years and was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the First Methodist Church. He was formerly a member of the Kentucky Board of Examiners for certified public accountants in Kentucky and a past president of the West Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants. He was a member of the Huntington Chamber of Commerce, Guyan Country Club and the Huntington Kiwanis Club. Survivors include besides his widow and nephew; two sisters, Mrs. Ollie Hill of Prestonsburg and Mrs. Grace Chatfield of Ashland, and one brother, Leonard Conley of Prestonsburg. He is also survived by a number of relatives in this county. Funeral services were conducted at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, at the Klingel - Carpenter Mortuary with the Rev. Dr. Arthur E. Beckett officiating. Burial followed in the Woodland Cemetery in Ironton, Ohio. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 12-19-1956
  
HANEY, Bill
1877-1956
Bill Haney, 79, died at 11:15 p.m. Friday, December 21, 1956 at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Cecil Tackett, following an illness of ten months. Born August 6, 1877, in Magoffin County, he was the son of the late James and Margaret Simmons Haney.  He had been a resident of Paintsville for 36 years.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Alice Haney, on December 19, 1943. Surviving are three sons, Earl Haney, Charlie Haney and Estill Haney, all of this city, and two daughters, Mrs. Cecil Tackett, city, and Mrs. Lester Williams, Muncie, Ind. Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Monday, December 24, at the Vine Street Enterprise Baptist Church with the Revs. Homer Evans and Claude Preston officiating.  Burial was made in the Town cemetery under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday January 2, 1957
  
HANEY, Charles "Buck"
1915-1956
Funeral services were conducted from the Pentecostal Church at 2:00 p.m., Monday, December 31, for Charles "Buck" Haney, 41, who died in a local hospital at 5:30 p.m., Friday of tuberculosis after an illness of several years. He was born in this city April 15, 1915, the son of Floyd and Loudina Litteral Haney. Surviving are his wife, Leona Baldridge Haney and seven children; five sons, Franklin, USN, Charles, Bobby, Eugene and Cecil Haney, all at home; two daughters, Mrs. Hazel Montgomery, Gray Fox, Ky., and Eva Jean Haney at home. Also surviving are five sisters, Mrs. Maggie Haney, Lexington, Mrs. Ollie Webb, Corbin, W. Va., Mrs. Bessie Ward, Waverly, Ohio, Mrs. Eva Montgomery, city, Mrs. Ina Risner, Poetsmouth, Ohio, and one brother, William Haney, Detroit, Michigan. Services were conducted by Revs. Jeffie Perry and Harry Salyers. Burial was in the family cemetery under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 01-02-1957
  
HANNAH, John
1884-1956
John Hannah, 72, Dies Wednesday
John Hannah, 72, died Wednesday, December 26, 1956 in a local hospital following an illness of five days. Born May 9, 1884, in Johnson County, he had been a resident of the Denver vicinity all his life. He was a retired farmer and miner. Surviving are his wife, Rhoda Wilson Hannah, one son, Marcus Hannah, Troy, Ohio. two daughters, Mrs. June Blanton, Shilow, Ohio, and Mrs. Gladys Reynolds, Troy, Ohio, and one sister, Mrs. Nancy Cheek, Fort Wayne, Ind. Funeral services were conducted at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 29, from the home with the Rev. Harry Salyer officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Leander under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 01-02-1957
  
HITCHCOCK, Jimmy
1938-1956
Jimmy Hitchcock, 18, son of Verlie and Margie Williams Hitchcock, Milford Center Rt. 1. died at 10:30 a. m.. Thursday in his home following an extended illness. Born in Paintsville, Ky., Feb.15, 1938, the youth is survived by his parents; a sister, Mrs. Walter Pickelsimer, of Springfield; a brother, Gene at home; a grandmother Abbie Hitchcock of Paintsville and a grandfather, James Williams, Springfield. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p. m. Saturday in the Rosedale Freewill Baptist church. Interment in Maple Grove cemetery, Meclianicsburg, will be in charge of the Grigg funeral home, Milford Center. Friends may call at the Hitchcock residence. Marysville Journal Tribune December 14 1956, Marysville Ohio Submitted By; Kim Donley
  
HITE, Mollie (Patrick)
1869-1956
Services Thursday For Mrs. Mollie Hite
Mrs. Mollie Hite, 87 year-old Greentown resident. died of a heart attack in a local hospital at 3:30 p.m., December 31, 1956 following a two month's illness. A native of Johnson County she was born March 23, 1869, the daughter of the late Noah and Cortella Franklin Patrick. She was a member of the United Baptist Church and had made her home at Greentown for the past twenty-five years. Her husband, Sherman Hite, preceded her in death in 1938. Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Pearl Castle and Mrs. Elva Yates, both of Thealka; seven grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Dennis Selvage, East Point, Mrs. Laura George, Florida; and one brother, Kay Patrick, Meal- ly. Also surviving are the following half brothers and sisters: Flem Patrick, Welch, W. Va.; Willis Patrick, city; Beecher Patrick, Meally; Mrs. Rosa Preston, Meally; Mrs. Evelyn Ham- ilton, Welch, W. Va., and Mrs. Grace Cantrell, Van Lear. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m., Thursday from the Buffalo United Baptist Church with Tom Samme  and F. F. Rigsby as officiating ministers. Burial will be in the Patrick Cemetery at Meally under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald  Wednesday 1-2-1957
KELLY, Freeman
1956
NATIVE OF MARTHA DIES DECEMBER 7
Freeman Kelly, 28, former resident of Martha, died December 7 in an East Chicago hospital after an illness of several weeks. He was a steelworker for General American Transportation Corp. and had lived in Chicago for six years. He was born at Martha, a son of Cassie and Cloma Ferguson Kelly, who survive. Funeral services were conducted Monday, December 10, at the Martha Church of God by the Rev. Emory Ferguson, the Rev. Monroe Cantrell and the Rev. Emerson Collier. Burial was made in the Sturgill Cemetery. Surviving in addition to his parents are his wife, Mrs. Ethel Sparks Kelly; a daughter, Janet Sue, and two sons, all at home in Chicago; and a brother, Raymond Kelly of Columbus, Ohio. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 19, 1956
LEMASTER, Russell
1907-1956
Heart Attack Fatal To Russell Lemaster, Manila Resident A heart attack, suffered at his home at Manila, proved fatal to Russell Lemaster, 49.  Mr. Lemaster worked as usual Thursday and it is thought he succumbed some time during the night, as he was found by his wife early Friday morning. Born February 22, 1907, in Johnson County, he was the son of William and Lola Salyer Lemaster, both of whom preceded him in death. Mr. Lemaster had been a life-long resident of Manila and was employed by the Ashland Oil Co., of Oil Springs, Ky.  He was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving in addition to his wife are one daughter, Mrs. Earl Skaggs, Flat Gap, Ky., one grandchild, and three sisters, Mrs. Halleck McKenzie, and Mrs. Kendrick Blanton, both of Volga, Ky., and Mrs. Charlie Estep, Milford Center, Ohio. Services were conducted from the Fish Tree United Baptist Church on Sunday morning with Lonza Reed, Foster Riggsby, Oscar McCarty, and John Pelphrey officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday December 12, 1956
MARTIN, T.J.
1911-1956
Accident Fatal To Father Of Local Woman
T.J. Martin, 45, of Wabash, IN, former resident of Odds, and father of Mrs. Harrison Castle of Nippa, was fatally injured in an automobile accident near Huntington, IN, on Saturday, December 8. Mr. Martin was driving during a snowstorm when his car skidded and struck a utility pole, pinning him in the car. Mr. Martin was born at Edgar, KY, August 1, 1911, son of Mrs. Josephine Carnett Martin and the late J.P. Martin. He was married to Miss Oshie Mae Collins in 1934. Surviving are the widow, two daughters, Mrs. Castle and Mrs. Alvin Edwards, of Wabash, IN, two sons, Ralph J. and Joel Thomas Martin of Wabash; three sisters, Mrs. Henry Music of Prestonsburg, Mrs. W.T. Laferty, Allen; Mrs. Otto Blackburn, Endicott, KY, three brothers, James of Louisa, Joel and David of Flatwoods. Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 11, at the Van Lear Freewill Baptist Church. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Odds. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY DEC 19, 1956
MOLLETT, James Hale
1956
JAMES HALE MOLLETT LIFELONG BOONS CAMP RESIDENT DIES DEC. 19 James Hale Mollett, 75, died at his home at Boons Camp at 5:30 a.m. December 19, of pneumonia following an illness of two weeks. A lifelong resident of the Boons Camp community, he was the son of the late Dave and Lydia Hale Mollett. He was a member of the United Baptist Church. Survivors include two brothers, Elias and William Mollett, both of Boons Camp and one sister, Mrs. Vada Preston, Catlettsburg. Funeral services were conducted at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Decemeber 21, from the Little Friendship United Baptist Church at Boons Camp by Revs. Earl Muncy, Leonard Walters and Nim Sturgill. Burial was made at Boons Camp under the direction of the Preston Funeral home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY 1-2-1957
MURRAY, Thomas
1872-1956
THOMAS MURRAY, FARMER OF KERZ, DIES DECEMBER 20
Thomas Murray, 85, lifelong resident of Kerz, died at his home at 3:30 p.m. Friday, December 20, of a heart condition.  He had been ill for the past nine years. The son of George and Dicy Salyers Murray, he was born at Flat Gap December 12, 1872.  He was a well-known farmer of that section and a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church. Surviving are the widow, Lena Fairchild Murray; two sons, Elbert Murray, Winifred, and Arthur Murray, Columbus, Ohio; three daughters, Mrs. Milles Cox, Columbus, Ohio; Mrs. Emma Sparks, Plain City, Ohio; Mrs. Nalia Ferguson, Elaine; two stepdaughters, Mrs. Fay Harper, Kermit, W. Va., Mrs. Ann Murray, New York, N. Y.; two sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Ramey, Salyersville, Mrs. Emma Salyers, Ironton, Ohio. Funeral services were conducted at 1:30 Sunday, December 22, from the Enterprise Baptist Church at Kerz with Edward Salyers, Bill Davis, Arthur Morris and Bruce Daniels as officiating ministers. Burial was in the family cemetery at Kerz. Paintsville Herald Wednesday January 1, 1958
PELPHREY, Flora (Salyer)
1891-1956
Flora Pelphrey Passes Sunday After Years Illness
Services held Wednesday morning at the Cedar Grove United Baptist Church in West Van Lear, Ky., for Mrs. Flora Pelphrey, 65, who died at her home on Sunday, after an illness of ten months. A daughter of the late Gardner and Lou Ann Fairchild Salyer, she was born November 10 1891, in Johnson County and had been a resident of West Van Lear for twenty six years. Mrs. Pelphrey was a member of the United Baptist Church. Surviving are one son, William Pelphrey, Jr., West Van Lear; four sisters, Mrs. Lora Williams, Flat Gap, Ky.; Mrs. Lon Hall, London, Ohio; Mrs. Julia Caudill and Mrs. Leo Daniel, both of Ashland, Ky.; and three brothers, Sammie Salyer, West Van Lear; Ben Salyer, Paintsville; and Hoadley Salyer, of Hager Hill, Ky. Winfrey Meek and Merida Wiley officiated and burial was made at Flat Gap, Ky., in the family cemetery under the direction of the Jones-Preston Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD DEC.12 1956
PORTER, Mabel Louise
1900-1956
Mabel Louise Porter, 55, Succumbs Thursday Following Long Illness
Court Reporter Here For Over 29 Years;
Services Held Saturday Miss Mabel Louise Porter, 55, well-known resident of this city and court reporter for the 24th Judicial District, succumbed Thursday morning, December 6, 1956, at her home on Fourth Street following an illness of several months. She was a person of great intellect and charm, and was held in high esteem by all who knew her. A court reporter for over 29 years, she was widely know by members of the legal profession in Eastern Kentucky, and was admired for her skill as reporter and for her knowledge of court procedure. Miss Porter was the daughter of the late Benjamin W. and Frances Taylor Porter.  She was born October 24, 1900, in Inez, Ky., and at an early age became affiliated with the First Baptist Church of this city. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the First Baptist Church with the Rev. C. H. Hockensmith and the Rev. M. R. Thomason officiating.  Judge W. D. Sparks of Louisa, county Attorney R. H. Harrington and J. K. Wells, president of the Paintsville Bar Association, paid tribute to her at the services. Surviving are two brothers, Paul Porter of this city, and James F. Porter of Huntington, W. Va., and one half-sister, Mrs. Virginia Robinson, Inez. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Inez under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Active pallbearers were Escom Chandler, Ted Arnold Silvert, James H. Conley, Clark Walters, Bob Gunning, Eugene Miller and Charlie Walters.  Honorary pallbearers were the attorneys form Johnson, Floyd, Pike, Martin, Magoffin and Lawrence Counties. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY Dec. 12, 1956

RISNER, Patrick
1889-1956
Patrick Risner Passes Sunday
Funeral services were conducted Wednesday, Dec. 12, for Patrick Risner, who died December 9, 1956. Born Feb 12, 1889, he was the son of the late Wilson and Caroline Johnson Risner.  A resident of Leander, he was married October 12, 1910, to Flossie May, who survives. He is also survived by one son, Flaudie Risner, Louisville, and three daughters, Mrs. Hazel Branham, Beaver, Ohio, Mrs. Cleo Brincefield, Detroit Mich. and Mrs. Li?? Mae McCatty. Springfield.  He was preceded in death by a son other survivors are ten grandchildren and three sisters, Mrs. Elvira Salmons, Lansing, Mich., Mrs. Cleo Sticks, Blue River, and Mrs. Alice Stephens, David. Services were held at the Pentecostal Church of Christ in Paintsville with the Rev. E. L. Cyrus Officiating.  Burial was made in Leander under the direction of the Kelly Funeral home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday December 19, 1956
SALYER, George
1879-1956
SERVICES TUESDAY FOR GEORGE SALYER
George Salyer, 86, died Sunday evening at his home in Oil Springs, following an illness of several months. Born September 25, 1879, he was the son of the late Bud and Katherine Burkheart Salyer. A member of the United Baptist Church, he was a lifelong resident of Johnson County.  He was preceded in death by his wife. He is survived by three sons Earl Salyer, Oil Springs, Troy Salyer, Urbana, Ohio and Frank Salyer, West Liberty, Ohio; three daughters, Mrs. Vertence Salyer, Oil Springs,  Mrs. Stella Ramey, Oil Springs, and Mrs. Dorothy Carpenter, Westville, Indiana; three brothers, Jake Salyer, Staffordsville, Wilson Salyer, Salyersville, and Manford Salyer, Leander and one sister Mrs. Virgie Salyer Urbana, Ohio. Funeral services were conducted at 1 p.m., Tuesday at the Rice School in Oil Springs. Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral  Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 12-05-1956
SHERMAN, Loucinda (Osborne)
1869-1956
Mrs. L. Sherman Passes Today After Long Illness
Loucinda Sherman, 87, member of one of the oldest and best known families in the county, died early this morning at her home in East Paintsville after an illness of four years. Born June 7, 1869, Johnson County, she was the daughter of Alfred and Cynthia Ward Osborne and had lived in this city all of her life. Her husband, Henry Roscoe Sherman, preceded her in death nineteen years ago. A member of the United Baptist Church of Paintsville, she was one of the two surviving charter members. Four sons, Fred Sherman, and Alfred Sherman, Thealka, Ezra “Doke” Sherman and Ernest “Bud” Sherman, both of this city; and two daughters, Mrs. Forest Preston, River, KY, and Mrs. Henry Begley, Thealka, survive her passing. Services will be conducted Friday morning at 11:00 o’clock at the Paintsville United Baptist Church with Cullie Sparks and O.I. Williams officiating. Burial will be made in the Sherman Cemetery at Davis Branch under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY DEC 12, 1956
SPARKS, Nelson
1956
Nelson Sparks Of Martha Found Slain
Nelson T. Sparks, 57, of Martha, superintendent of the Ashland Oil & Refining Company’s Martha- Keaton district, was found dead near his home Thursday morning with a bullet wound in the temple. Lawrence County Coroner Byron Young said a pistol lay near the body. Young said he was investigating the fatal shooting further. Sparks, a brother of Lawrence County Sheriff Ed Sparks, succeeded Marvin Hill as superintendent for Ashland Oil at Martha. He had been employed by the firm for many years. He was a son of the late Laben T. and Emily Sparks of Martha. He was a member of Jake Rice Masonic Lodge and O.E.S. of Blaine and El Hasa Temple of the Shrine of Ashland. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist Church at Martha at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, and burial was made in the Sparks family cemetery. Surviving are the widow, Nancy Griffith Sparks, four brothers and two sisters. PAINTSVILLE HERALD WEDNESDAY DEC 12, 1956
STRONG, Harlan
1956
Local Woman's Father Dies of Heart Attack
Harlan Strong, 66, of Irvine, died early Tuesday morning December 4, while en route to Good Samaritan Hospital, after being stricken with a heart attack. He had been a locomotive engineer with the I. & N. Railroad Company for the past forty years. He was the father of Mrs. t. E. Walden of this city. He was a member of the Irvine Christian church, the local Masonic lodge and the brotherhood of Locomotive engineers.  A native of Breathitt County, he came to Irvine in 1916. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Mable Harding Strong; two daughters, Mrs. Anna Lucile Walden of Paintsville and Miss Cleta Mae Strong, Irvine, a son, Lt. Col. William C. Strong, D.D. S., stationed with the U. S. Army in Hawaii; six grandchildren; three brothers, Tom and Beech Strong, both of Ohio and Robert Strong of Jackson; two sisters, Mrs. Lily Philpott of Georgetown, and Mrs. Grace Belcher of Ohio. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday at the Irvine Christian Church with the pastor, the Rev. Keith Bell, officiating. Burial was in the Lexington Cemetery with Lewis Funeral Home in charge. Pallbearers were William Claxton, W. R. Cundiff, Lee Witt, Walter Blount, Walter Doe and John Mundy. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 12-12-1956
WALTERS, William J.
1876-1956
WALTERS, WILLIAM J. Wm. J. WALTERS  RETIRED FARMER, DIES DECEMBER 9
Prominent Citizen Of River Vicinity Buried Tuesday
Funeral services for William J. Walters, 80, retired farmer of River, Kentucky, were held at the Jones and Preston Funeral Home at one o'clock Tuesday.  Mr. Walters died at 2:00 a.m. Sunday, December 9, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ruth Burke, in Ashland afer an illness of ten months. One of the county's most respected citizens, and a member of a large and prominent family, he was a son of the late John C. and Mary Arrowood Walters.  He was born September 24, 1876. He was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and had been a member of the Masonic Lodge for 50 years. Surviving besides his daughter, are two brothers, Edford L. Walters of Louisville, and George Walters, Shoals, W. Va., one sister, Mrs. Letha Steele Clark of Betsy Layne, three grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted by the Reverend M.R. Thomason, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Paintsville, and Masonic rites were held at the graveside. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Bobs Branch under the direction of the Jones and Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday December 12, 1956
WARD, Mary (Sammons)
1878-1956
Mary Ward, 78, Of Boons Camp Passes Thursday
Mrs. Mary Ward, 78, wife of the late John M. Ward of Boons Camp, Ky., died Thursday afternoon of a heart attack at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Wince Trimble, at Hager Hill, Mrs. Ward has sustained a broken hip in a fall about three weeks ago and had never fully recovered, though her condition was not considered to be critical. The daughter of Greenville and Angeline Sammons, she was born September 30, 1878 in Johnson County and had lived at Boons Camp all her life.  She was a member of the Methodist Church. She leaves to mourn her passing two sons, Eugene and Greenville Ward both of Boons Camp, and five daughters, Mrs. Wince Trimble, Hager Hill, Ky., Mrs. Robert Wells, Fairborn, Ohio, Carmona Howell, Angie Ward and Ruth ward, all of Boons Camp. Services were held Sunday morning at the home at Boons Camp with the Rev. H. B. Holland officiating and music furnished by the Paintsville Quartet.  Burial was made in the family cemetery under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 12-19-1956
WEDDINGTON, Dora (Blair)
1879-1956
DORA WEDDINGTON SUCCUMBS IN OHIO;
SERVICES AT DENVER
Mrs. Dora Weddington, 77, formerly of Johnson County, died at her home in New Carlisle, Ohio, early Friday morning after an illness of several months. She was born in Johnson County in 1879, the daughter of William and Lydia Blair, but had made her home in Ohio for the past two years. Her husband, Lee Weddington, preceded her in death in 1944. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Surviving are three son, Virgin Weddington, Springfield, Ohio; Willie Weddington, New Carlisle, Ohio, and Herschel Weddington, Denver, KY; six daughters, Mrs. Fannie Hitchcock, Miami, Fl, Mrs. Florence Blanton, Denver, KY; Mrs. Victoria  Wilhelm, Tip City, Ohio; Mrs. Lucille Williams, Marion, Ohio, Norma Blair and Mrs. Gladys Scott, both of New Carlisle, Ohio; two brothers, Claude Blair, Mossy Bottom, KY, and Curtis Blair, Ashland, KY., and one sister, Mrs. Sarah Rice, Denver, KY. Services were held Sunday afternoon at the Liberty Baptist Church at Denver, KY., with Sam Slone officiating and music furnished by Tom’s Creek Quartet. Burial rites were conducted at the family cemetery at Denver under the direction of the Paintsville Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 12-19-1956
  
Dora Alice Blair Weddington, youngest daughter of the late William P.J. and Lydia Rice Blair was born near Denver, KY., February 26, 1879, and deceased this life at 3:15 a.m., Friday, December 14, 1956.  Death came after a lengthly illness at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Gladys Scott of New Carlisle, Ohio, at the age of 77 years 9 months and 18 days. In November 1895, she was converted and joined the Missionary Baptist Church at Denver, KY, where she remained a faithful member.  Her entire adult life was spent near Denver until 1953 when she moved to Tipp City, Ohio, where she resided with her daughter,  Victoria, until November 1955, when she moved to nearby New Carlisle, Ohio, to reside with her daughter Gladys. At Coal Run, KY., on June 4, 1896, she was united in marriage to Leonidas (Lee) Weddington who preceded her in death September 30, 1946.  To this union were born eleven children, two of whom died in infancy. Survivors include, three sons, and six daughters, Virgil H., Springfield, Ohio, Hershell K. Denver, William S. Mrs. Norma Blair and MRs. Gladys Scott all of New Carlisle, Ohio, Mrs. Victoria Wilhelm of TIpp City, Ohio, Mrs. Lucille Williams of Marion, Ohio, Mrs. Fannie Hitchcock of Miami, Florida, and Mrs. Florence Blanton of Denver, Twenty grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.  Also two brothers and one sister; Claude Blair of Huntington, W.Va. and Mrs. Sarah C. Rice of Denver.  One brother Clate P Blair and two sisters, Mrs. Virgie Blair and Mrs. Cynthia Arms, preceded her in death. Brief services were held Saturday, December 15, by Rev. Joe Waltz of Fairborn Baptist Church in Trostel Funeral Home of New Carisle, Ohio, after which the body was taken to the home of her daughter, Mrs. Florence Blanton of Denver, KY. Funeral services were held Sunday, December 16, at the Liberty Baptist Church at Denver, KY, and were in charge of Rev. Sam Sloan of Ashland, KY., music by the Toms Creek Quartet. Internment was in the family cemetery near Denver under the direction of the Trostel Funeral Home of New Carlisle, Ohio and the Paintsville Funeral Home of Paintsville. Paintsville Herald Wednesday 1-9-1957
WILLIAMS, Gary Wendell
1956
FUNERAL SERVICES TODAY AT WEST VAN LEAR
Gary Wendell Williams, 18, former resident of Van Lear, was killed in an automobile accident between Bypro and Melvin on left Beaver Sunday night when the car he was driving ran across the road and into a hill. He suffered a broken back and internal injuries and was dead upon arrival at McDowell Hospital. The victim had secured his father’s car and was driving with three companions from his home at Bypro toward Melvin where one of the youths lived. Surviving are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Rufus Williams of Bypro, two sisters, Mrs. Colleen Williams, of Van Lear, and Karen Williams and two brothers, Roger and Larry. Funeral services were held today at the West Van Lear Church of Christ with the Rev. S.C. Honeycutt officiating. Burial was in the family cemetery at Van Lear Paintsville Herald Wednesday 12-19-1956
WOODY, Chris
1956-1956
PNEUMONIA FATAL TO WOODY INFANT;
SERVICES TUESDAY
Chris Woody, infant son of Jack and Jean Crum Woody died early Monday morning at the home at Boons Camp, KY, of pneumonia at the age of four months and eleven days. One sister, Kathy, survives in addition to the parents. Services were conducted Tuesday afternoon at the home with John Crum and Nim Sturgill the officiating ministers. Burial was in the Crum Cemetery at Boons Camp under the direction of the Preston Funeral Home. Paintsville Herald Wednesday December 5, 1956
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