Selmer Newspaper Clippings for 1919

JANUARY 3, 1919

Mrs. D. W. Hester, aged 71 years, died at her home in Bethel Springs, Monday night December 30, 1918, of pneumonia. She was a sister of Rev. J. B. Maxedon, and a member of the old, highly respected family. She was laid to rest in Buena Vista cemetery Wednesday, Rev. Newsom conducting the service. She leaves in addition to her husband, four sons and one daughter, all grown. She was a noble Christian woman. We extend our sympathy to the bereaved family.

Rev. T. E. Foust died Monday night at the home of his mother - in - law, Mrs. W. M. Lockman. He had been declining for several months with tuberculosis and gave up his work at the last Conference. He was a consecrated minister and a most loveable character. He leaves a stricken wife and six children. He was laid to rest Wednesday in Oakhill cemetery. Our condolence goes to the family bereft of a kind husband and a loving father.

Asa Lain, aged 36 years died of influenza at his home near Bethesda, December 24th and his remains were buried in the Bethesda cemetery the following afternoon, Rev. Wm. Throne conducting the funeral. He leaves a wife and four young children and a number of grown brothers and sisters. We extend our sincere sympathy to the bereaved.

Miss Fannie Chambers, aged 64 years, died Sunday at Ramer in the home of her niece, Mrs. George A. Prather, after a short illness of pneumonia. The funeral was conducted by Eld. J. A. Houston and burial took place in the Ramer cemetery Tuesday. She was a splendid Christian lady and her death is regretted by all.

Death of Sgt. Wm. Hamilton in Chateau - Thierry Battle

CO. B, 9th Infantry, A. E. F.

Nov. 25, 1918

My dear Mrs. Hamilton,

I have received your letter dated October 22. I am glad to give you all the information I can regarding the death of your son, which occurred during the time the 9th Infantry held back the Germans when they attempted to drive through for Paris, at Chateau - Thierry.

Company B was stationed in the woods, and just before turning in for the night, a heavy bombardment leveled at our sector was commenced by the Germans artillery. It was during this barrage that your son met his unfortunate death. William's death came instantly and without pain, and I know it will be a source of genuine pride to you to know that he met his death as a brave and loyal soldier of our great country. William was thought very highly of throughout the company and the regiment and his death caused deep sorrow and regret among all his friends and acquaintance. He was at all times a good soldier, always performing his duties in a courageous and prompt manner.

I am forwarding your letter to the proper authorities who will give you the information you desired regarding the burial place of your son.

Yours truly

1st. Sgt. F. B. Welter.

The two - year old child of Squire and Mrs. N. E. Goodrum, after being sick with pneumonia for some time, died Thursday morning. Everybody in the community sympathizes with these good people in this said loss.

JANUARY 10, 1919

Dr. J. M. King Instantly Killed by Southern Train

Dr. J. M. King, of Chewalla while standing near the railroad track at Cypress Tank to get on the east - bound train for his home Saturday night, was struck by the train, receiving a blow on his head causing instant death.

His remains were brought to Selmer Sunday afternoon, and remained in the home of his daughter, to Mt. Pleasant cemetery in the west part of the county and laid beside his wife and several children. The funeral was conducted by Rev. J. W. Wallace.

Dr. King has long been an active practitioner and was considered by his many patients a very successful doctor. He went always when called, never asking if the pay was in sight. He was prominently identified with the Masonic order. He leaves a frail widow and a little daughter, several grown children by his first wife, and a number of brothers and sister, to whom we, after long years of friendship for Dr. King, extend our sympathy.

OBITUARY OF REV. T. E. Foust

Rev. Thomas E. Foust was born on May 21, 1867, in Henry County, Tennessee and died December 31, 1918 at the home of Mrs. W. M. Lockman in Selmer.

Bro. Foust professed saving faith in Christ when about 13 years old, and joined the M. E. church, South at Shiloh church, Manleyville circuit, Paris district. He was licensed to preach by Paris District Conference in 1902, and recommended by said Conference for admission into the Memphis Conference. He was admitted on trail at the Conference convening at Paris in 1902. He was ordained Deacon by Bishop W. W. Duncaqn at Mayfield, KY. in 1905. He was ordained by Elder Bishop E. R. Hendrix at Greenfield, Tenn. in 1907. He married to Miss Jessie Lockman, June 21, 1903. His devoted wife and six children now mourn their great loss.

Bro. Foust was a devoted Christian. He was pure in heart, clean in life, and prudent in speech - letting his light shine every day. Hence he was a living epistle of Christ and many will rise up in that day and called him blessed. He was a loving husband and good father, commanding the respect and obedience of his children, enduring hardness as a good soldier of JESUS CHRIST, and was a model itinerant.

He possessed conquering faith because he was able to remove all obstacles out of the path of life, and was ever able to overcome evil with good. He was able to come off more than conqueror over the last enemy. He could truly say, "Thanks be to GOD who hath given us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ". It was an inspiration to be with him and hear him talk - his radiant smile was the out - beaming of the spiritual life of a worthy citizen of the kingdom of heaven. While the outward man was fading day by day, the inner man was being renewed by the indwelling spirit.

On January 1, 1919, at the home of his Mother - in - law, Mrs. W. M. Lockman, funeral service were conducted by the pastor, assisted by three other ministers, Rev. T. F. and J. B. Maxedon and J. W. Wallace, and Presiding Elder B. J. Russell also took part in the services. His body was buried in Oakhill cemetery.

Though dead, he yet speaks. We expect to know him over there.

R. W. Newsom.

We desire to express our heartfelt thanks to the friends who so kindly attended during the sickness and death of our little Vera Opel, and hope that afflictions may not come to their homes.

Mr. and Mrs. N. E. Goodrum and children.

JANUARY 17, 1919

J. E. Mitchell Commits Suicide.

Tuesday morning J. E. Mitchell, aged about 55 years left his home and about 12 o'clock was found hanging by a rope to a tree in the woods near his home.

The deceased had been mentally unbalanced for some time, and about four weeks ago was released from the Insane Hospital after being an inmate several months. He has been a leading citizen and farmer in the west part of the county, owning a fine farm and well to do. He leaves a second wife, the daughter of D. Baker. By a former wife he has several children and by his present wife several young children. He was a brother of Bruce Mitchell and son of Dr. J. W. Mitchell and a member of the large and leading Mitchell family.

JANUARY 31, 1919

R. N. Varnell was born October 14, in Alabama. In 1875 he married Miss Alice Davis, of Alabama, after which they moved to Adamsville, Tenn., then to Selmer, and later to Jackson, Tenn., where he died at his home on East Chester Street, Jan. 19, 1919.

He leaves a wife and eight children, Mrs. Ida White, and Mrs. Estella Butler of Jackson, Tenn., Mrs. Maggie White, and Mrs. Bessie Vinson of Stantonville, Tenn., also four sons, J. B., D. B. and Rev.J. N. Varnell of Jackson, Tenn. and Gavin D. Varnell who is with the American Expeditionary Force in France. Three brothers, W. T. Varnell of Adamsville, Tenn. and one sister Mrs. Mary E. Chambers of Alabama, and a host of friends who mourn his death.

He was a kind husband and a loving father, to know him was to love him.

Fay Rogers.

FEBRUARY 7, 1919

Death of Sweet Christian Girl Causes Much Sorrow

After a week of intense suffering caused by peritonitis, Miss Swan Hoover died Sunday at mid -night at the home of her parents in Selmer. Her body was taken Monday and laid to rest in the Shiloh cemetery.

Memorial services were held by the Selmer High School marching to the residence to view the remains. Rev. J. B. Maxedon held religious services at Shiloh church, and Prof. Robinson, principal of the Selmer High School, made a most forceful and appropriate address on the character of his former pupil.

Miss Swan was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John O. Hoover, and was 18 years of age, and up until the illness which caused her death, was the very picture of health, lovely to look upon, and possessed of all the noble virtues which make sweet and precious girls. She was intelligent and industrious as well as comely, and was a great factor in the happiness of this well ordered home.

We extend our sympathy to the family, through a great length of time will be required to heal the hearts which sorrow and affliction have broken, but the assurance of meeting this sweet girl again in that place where sickness nor death and separation can never enter should be of much consolation to them as the years roll on.

After a short illness and much suffering, God saw fit to relieve Mrs. W. D. Hamm, and called her spirit home Saturday evening. Her remains were laid to rest Sunday afternoon in the Gravelhill cemetery, Rev. Hardwick conducting the funeral service.

FEBRUARY 28, 1919

Mrs. Predett Emmons, Cleveland and Clarence Springer were called to the bedside of their father, J. C. Springer, ten days ago on account of his serious illness. The former two have returned to their homes in Texas, the latter, whose home is in Oregon, will remain until his father's condition is more improved.

Death of Brothers Near Finger

Attorney John E. Vires, of Selmer is to be greatly sympathized with in the death last week of two brothers, Chas G., aged 43 and Thos. J. Vires, age 38, who died from pneumonia brought about by flu.

W. B. Smith passed away last week at his home near Stantonville, death being caused from the effects of flu. He was a Christian gentleman and his death is regretted by all.

John H. Hurst, 42 years old , son of Mr. and Mrs. D. R. Hurst of Selmer, died Saturday at Waco, Texas, and the remains were buried there. His aged parents have the sympathy of their many friends in the death of their son.

MARCH 21, 1919

A Very Sad Death

Mrs. Lessie Brasfield Haynes, wife of Shearon L. Haynes, died of uremic poisoning Sunday, March 16, at 4 p. m. She was stricken last Wednesday and medical aid could not check the poisonous disease. She suffered intensely but bore it with patience.

Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John A. Brasfield, of Martin, were at her bedside from Thursday until the end came. Mrs. Haynes became a mother about ten days before the uremic attack, but had gotten along finely.

The deceased and Shearon Haynes were married July 21, 1914. Two children were born. She was 21 years of age. She was a member of the Methodist church, but at the age of 15 years was baptized into the Christian church. She was so recently one of Selmer's most vivacious and attractive girls that we hardly realize her as a mother. She was beloved by all, and a most devoted mother and wife. Unusual ties seemed always to bind her and her father in life which seemed cruel to break.

Funeral services were held at the Methodist church Monday afternoon at 1 o'clock, a very large crowd of relatives and friends attending the services which were conducted by the pastor, Rev. R. W. Newsom, assisted by Rev. Butler and Wallace. The floral offerings bespoke the kindness and love of her friends.

The stricken husband has the most sincere sympathy of all in leaving him alone with two babies to tenderly care for. He is blessed however with his own parents and the parents of his sainted wife, who as far as love and attentive care can allay his grief, will be lavished upon him.

The Independent extends its most sincere condolence. to the bereaved families.

J. C. Springer, one of our best citizens, died at the home Saturday morning at 4 o'clock, at the age of 66. His remains were laid to rest in the family cemetery Saturday evening. Rev. Carmack conducting the funeral services. He leaves a wife and ten children to mourn his loss, five of whom are married, four at home and one in the army, the youngest child is 15 years old. He has been a faithful member of the Missionary Baptist church for twenty - six years. His life has been one of honesty and uprightness, always holding up for the right. Many young men will long remember his good advice and such men as he will be sadly missed. Our hearts go out in sympathy to the bereaved family, may each of them be made to realize that their loss is his eternal gain.

J. B. Huggins

ANOTHER SAD DEATH

Tuesday night death relieved the sufferings of Mrs. Mary Ruth Ammons Madden, aged 20 years, at the Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis. She was taken there about ten days ago and immediately operated on for appendicitis. Other complications set in, coupled with her weakened condition. Coming so soon after the death of Mrs. Shearon Haynes, and both being young mothers, brought a gloom to our entire community. All the best medical skill, and attention of relatives, could not prevent the brittle thread from sundering.

The deceased was the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. Y. Ammons, and grand - daughter of H. C. Gooch, and great - grand - daughter of Mrs. Edith Warren. She was married to Lieut. Arthur A. Madden more than a year ago. The attention of her young husband during her illness here and at the hospital together with that of her parents was most affecting, and their grief inconsolable.

The funeral services conducted by Rev. Newsom and Houston at the Methodist church Thursday afternoon and burial in Oakhill cemetery.

Our sympathy goes out to the bereaved relatives.

In Memory of Mrs. L. K. Prather

Mrs. Louisa Kindall Prather, known by her home friends as "Aunt Kate" was the daughter of Colonel James and Louisa Warren of McNairy County, Tennessee. Was born June 18, 1919. Was married to Dr. L. H. C. Prather, May 26, 1872. To this union two children were born, Odus and Jennie. Later they moved to Craighead county, Arkansas, and lived there about seven years, when the death angel visited the home and claimed as its victim Dr. Prather, her husband and the father of her children. Loving friends laid his remains in the cemetery at New Hope to rest until the resurrection mourn.

Mrs. Prather with her two children moved back to McNairy, county, Tennessee and lived with her father and mother until their death about the year 1900. She then moved to Duncan, then moved to Atoka with Capt. J. T. Jeans and family. Mrs. Jeans is her sister. She lived in Duncan when Mrs. Prather was 18 years of age she joined the Missionary Baptist church in McNairy county Tennessee. When she moved to Atoka in 1901 she united with the Baptist church in this place. She attended church regularly for a while, but she became so afflicted she could not walk very far, so she had to give up attending church with many other pleasures she formerly enjoyed, but bore it cheerfully, looking forward to the time when her Master would take her home to rest. She was taken with the influenza and pneumonia and on January 7, 1919, her summons came and her soul passed peacefully to GOD who gave it.

"Why do we mourn departing friends,
Or shake at death's alarm.
'Tis but the voice that Jesus sends
To call them to Him".

Two days later, the Death Angel again visited this home and took a brother. Odus Prather, and he too went to his eternal home. He will be missed by his friends and his only sister, who is left alone on her journey to the end of life here, and to the beginning of the life in the great beyond.

Their many friends mourn with her in this great sorrow.

A Friend

MARCH 28, 1919

Death of The Week

Rufus H. Hill, about 75 years old, died Sunday at his home east of McNairy. He was an honorable man, and one of the oldest and best citizens of the county. He had been in failing health for some time. We numbered him among our oldest acquaintances and friends, and intimal reader of the Independent.

We extend our sympathy to the bereaved family.

Mrs. J. E. Curry, wife of James E. Curry, died Sunday night at her home in Pocahontas after a short illness. Her remains were laid to rest Tuesday in the Wooten cemetery. Prof. I. N. Roland conducting the funeral services in the presence of a large crowd of sorrowing relatives and friends. Mrs. Curry was about 55 years of age and a woman who was loved by all. She was greatly devoted to her home and her husband and son, Oscar, were the personification of tenderness and kindness towards her, and to them we extend our sympathy in this trying ordeal which will surely come to all. Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of His Saints.

APRIL 4, 1919

GRAVELHILL ITEMS

Eron, the youngest child of Mrs. Lillie Haddock, was carried to Memphis last Wednesday and operated on for appendicitis. He was brought back a corpse Thursday night. He was laid to rest in Gravelhill cemetery Friday evening, Rev. Carmack conducting the funeral service. A sadder burial was never witnessed here, not because of the death of the one child but because of the deep sympathy for the heartbroken mother, who it seems has had more than her share of trouble in her married life, having lost seven of her children and her husband who was killed by a runaway mule about nineteen months ago. Her oldest son died about six months ago in France. Her father also died last August.

In Memory of Rufus H. Hill

On Sunday night, March 23, Rufus H. Hill departed this life at his home in the 8th district. He was 79 years old.

I have known "Uncle" Rufus forty - eight years , having first met him in the Odd Fellow Hall when I took my first degree in that order. He impressed me as being a strong, upright character. The more I have been with him, the stronger I was impressed with that idea. He was brave, honest and truthful, the three principals which it takes to make strong human characters.

James 1:26:27: If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain...

Pure religion and under field before God and the Father is this: To visit the fatherless and widow in their affliction and keep himself unspotted from the world.

He certainly bridled his tongue. I once heard a prominent lawyer say that Rufus Hill was the only witness he ever heard that gave evidence that was against himself rather than not tell the truth. He has been a father to the fatherless, never having any children of his own, but has raised several orphan children. He has kept himself unspotted from the world.

Revelations 20:12: And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God and the books were opened and another book was opened which is the book of life and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.

He was buried by the Masonic order, whose services are appropriate and sensible.

P. H. Thrasher.

APRIL 11, 1919

FATAL AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT

Due E. Michie, aged 65 living near Stantonville, while returning late Saturday evening from Corinth in the car of Rufus Brown, and in which Sam Pounds and wife and Sam McKenzie were also riding, while making a short turn near Livingston's the car was overturned owing to having tried to make the curve at such a rapid rate the car was traveling. Mr. Michie was thrown from the car, his head striking the gravel road, fracturing his skull and otherwise bruising him up. He never regained consciousness and lingered until Monday at 2 p. m. when death relieved his suffering. His remains were buried Tuesday in McKenzie graveyard.

This accident was clearly a case of reckless driving by a boy who perhaps was under the influence of liquor, as a portion of a bottle of whiskey was found in the car and his breath bore evidence of having been drinking.

The deceased was a well - known and prominent citizen, being a son of the late Rev. R. W. Michie. He was a devoted member of the Christian church. He was an uncle of Dr. R. M. Kendrick, and greatly attached to him.

Surviving Mr. Michie are two sons, Ephraim, in France and Due of Memphis, and several grown daughters.

We extend our sympathies to the bereaved relatives.

APRIL 11, 1919

C. W. Barnes attended the bedside of his brother, James Barnes, in the 7th district, during his illness and death this week. This good man will be greatly missed in the community where he lived.

J. L. Barnes Dead

James L. Barnes, aged 78 years died at his home on Lick Creek, three miles from Adamsville, Monday, April 7. He was taken down with an affection of the kidneys only a week before his death. He was buried at Mars Hill Tuesday. He leaves a widow and two sons and one daughter, and is a brother of our fellow - townsman, C. W. Barnes. Perhaps no man ever lived to that age about whom it could be said he never had an enemy and was the enemy of no man.

MAY 2, 1919

Troy Ammons Answers Summons

D. Troy Ammons, age 40 years, died Friday at his home in Jackson, from an illness which was brought about by the influenza which attacked him last winter.

He was reared in Bethel Springs, and twenty years ago began his railroad career as a telegrapher for the Mobile & Ohio Railroad Co., and for the past thirteen years has been a train dispatcher located at Jackson. He was a high - minded, honorable gentleman, popular with officials and employees, and his passing is a distinct lose to that band of men who have to do with the operation of the trains of a great railway system, and the train dispatchers with scarcely an exception, are as fine a set of men as one could find. Troy had reached almost the top in his profession.

He is survived by his widow, two children, an aged mother, a brother, Jon. B. Ammons of Bethel Springs, and one sister, Mrs. Etta Huddleston, of Aberdeen, Miss., to whom we extend our condolence.

Sad Death

Virgil Robinson, youngest son of Mrs. M. L. Robinson, died Wednesday night after an affliction of several months, which no medicine could relieve. He was paralyzed in his lower limbs, no hope of recovery being held out. He was a noble young boy, and as the youngest son was the idol of the family. Funeral services Thursday afternoon at the Methodist church and interment in Oak Hill cemetery. Out of respect to his memory, the Selmer High School closed for the day. The entire community joins in with us in tendering our deep sympathy to the family.

May 8, 1919

Sudden Death of Aged Woman

Mrs. B. F. Darby, aged 67 years died Saturday morning at her home in Gravelhill. She was taken suddenly ill Friday night, and as thought, an affection of the heart, caused her sudden death. She was in her usual good health Friday. She was the wife of Dr. B. F. Darby, one of the best known citizens of the county. The deceased was the second wife of Dr. Darby, being married to him fifteen years ago in Alabama. She leaves five grown children by a former husband, four of whom were here at her funeral, which was conducted by Rev. J. B. Maxedon at the Gravelhill cemetery Sunday afternoon in the presence of a large host of friends.

The deceased was a Christian with noble traits of kindness and beloved by all. She was the staff of the venerable doctor, now in his 89th year, and very feeble, and his loss together with a severe spell of sickness from which he has not recovered, have affected his mind, and his friends are fearful his days are few.

The condolences of the Independent go to the family.

MAY 23, 1919

A Very Sad Death

Knox, the 11 year old son of Dr. and Mrs. John J. Abernathy of Action, last week accidentally stuck a splinter in his foot, and within a short time the slight wound became infected with tetanus, and despite all that the efforts of the best medical skill obtainable could do, death relieved the little fellow's suffering Sunday. His body was buried Monday at Shiloh, Elder J. A. Houston conducting the funeral.

The death of this bright little boy has caused much sorrow, not only in the home, but in the entire community, and to the heartbroken family, we extend our heartful sympathy.

J. H. O' Neal, 77 years old, died at his home in the 16th district Friday. He has been in delicate health for a number of years. For many years he was one of the leading business men and farmers of the county, and was held in high esteem by all. After an acquaintance of half a century, we can truthfully say that James Henry O' Neal was an upright, honorable man, and the type of citizen that is hard to replace.

Peace to his ashes.

MAY 30, 1919

Drew J. Archer Acquitted

The trial was on last week of Drew J. Archer, charged with murder in the first degree for the killing of E. F. Cross in 1918. The jury Friday morning returned a verdict of not guilty, "The proof showed that the two men were in Cross's field and some few words were passed about Archer's hogs getting in Cross's field. Soon Cross applied the most vile epithet to Archer with all its blasphemous attachments and started towards Archer with a knife in his hand, when Mr. Archer drew his double - barrel shotgun on him and fired, killing Cross instantly. It was claimed Mr. Cross had put his knife in his pocket. Upon the character of the two men for peace and quietude this case turned. The character of the defendant was the best quiet citizenship while that of the deceased, by a score or more of his neighbors, showed him to be an over - bearing, bull - dozing character, who had a custom of bulling people, and being a large, muscular man, was able to have his way with ordinary men. On the other hand, Archer was rather a slender and delicate man, but as shown, he was "gritty". Cross was an energetic man with large real estate holdings which were heavily enthralled.

The defense was ably presented by Abernathy & Abernathy. The verdict met the approval of everyone who heard the evidence, and the courtroom was crowded Thursday.

Mr. J. M. Robertson, of Texas formerly of McNairy county, and a civil war veteran of Capt. Kemp's company, 6th (Hurst's) Tennessee Cavalry, spent Tuesday in Selmer meeting a few old comrades, and having dental work done. He is the father of Attorney John W. Robertson of Henderson, where he is spending a few weeks. He is 84 years old, but quite active.

Jeff Kernodle, about 60 years of age, died at his home west of Bethel Springs Monday, of cancer, which he suffered with for several years. He was a good citizen and a member of the well - know Kernodle family of this county.

Mrs. C. F. Harris and son, of Conroe, Texas, after visiting the former's parents, Mr. and Mrs. D. R. Hurst, and other relatives in McNairy county, left Monday night for their home.

Wm. E. Sanders and son, Wm. Jr. and aunt Mrs. Nancy A. Sanders, of Joplin MO., are visiting relatives in Selmer. Mr. Sanders is a prominent citizen of Joplin, and trustee of the estate of his uncle, the late William Sanders, of Carterville, MO.

JULY 11, 1919

On Friday, July 25, 1919, at Mars Hill the funeral of my son, Private Homer O' Neal Jr., CO I, 11th Infantry, 5th Division, who was reported killed November 7, 1918, near Brandeville, France, will be preached by Elder N. V. Parker and J. A. Miller. The services will continue over Saturday and Sunday.

B. H. O' Neal.

JULY 18, 1919

Mrs. Alice Kennedy and baby, of Gulfport, Miss, are visiting her aunt, Mrs. Moselle Hamilton. She will be remembered as Miss Alice Anderson, grand - daughter of the late R. D. Anderson.

In Loving Memory of Minnie Vesta Hamilton

One year ago today, July 13, the pain - racked and fever - stricken body of Minnie Vesta Hamilton was relieved of its soul which went home to GOD.

We were great friends, big pals, and we miss her in our home and everywhere we go. We were sad when the strong ties of friendship were broken in twain by the hand of death, but we find consolation in the thought that she is mingling with the angels of which she often dreamed.

We will ever cherish her memory and the beautiful life she lived here on earth will be an inspiration to lend us to a higher and better life.

AUGUST 1, 1919

Funeral of Wisdom Abernathy

The last offices of relatives and friends were here Friday in laying to rest the mortal remains of Wisdom Abernathy, whose tragic death happened last Wednesday. The funeral services were held at the residence of his sister, Mrs. J. H. Bigger, where he passed to the beyond.

Elder J. A. Houston, assisted by Rev. E. H. Gooch and Rev. R. A. N. Wilson, conducted the services which were solemn, and witnessed by a large concourse of relatives and friends, a beautiful casket, with a great profusion of elaborately designed floral offerings, seemed to harmonize with the classic face as it like marble lay cold and calm.

A long cortege of cars followed the coffin to Oakhill cemetery where his body was laid in the bosom of Mother Earth, until the call of the trumpet for the dead to arise.

The aged mother is consoled alone in the thought that GOD doeth all things well. The entire family have the sympathy of the whole community.

The following poem by Will D. Muse was clipped by Wisdom from the Commercial Appeal a few days before his death, and was read by Rev. Wilson as part of his address at the funeral, and as said, probably was on his mind at the time of the rash act:

He's Just Asleep
He is not dead!
He only sleeps to waken at some fairer dawn.
That fall o'er night's eternal shore;
And where the waters of some mystic sea
Shall break in music evermore.

He is not dead!
For just a night his boyish lips are dumb
Beneath the twilight, and the evening star,
A little rest and they shall sing again
Before GOD'S gates that always stand ajar.

He is not dead!
The flame of vibrant youth can never die
And turn again to ashes cold and gray,
Somewhere; beyond life sunset gates we know
It lights the pathway to eternal day.

He is not dead!
His hands, perhaps, grew tired of human tasks,
Weary of holding up life's tangled skein,
And yet, we know somehow, sometime, somewhere
He will take up these pleasant tasks again.

He is not Dead!
Although he lies so white and cold and still,
And does not hear us as we vainly weep,
We seem to know that angel's hands have drawn
The curtains close, and he is just asleep

AUGUST 1, 1919

Mr. and Mrs. John C. Hill, of Houston, Texas, spent Monday night and Tuesday the guest of Mr. U. S. Alexander.

Miss Demova Kirkman, of Centralia, ILL., the daughter of

Rev. J. A. Kirkman, well known to many of our readers is visiting her aunt, Mrs. J. E. Maxedon. She is an accomplished young lady, 16 years of age.

Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Lett, of Dyer, were here to attend the funeral of the latter brothers, Wisdom Abernathy. They left Monday accompanied by their nephew, Matthew Bigger.

Pack McCuller of Checotoh, OKLA, a former McNairian, is visiting his niece, Mrs. W. C. Moore. He will be remembered by the people at Chewalla where he was raised, being a brother of G. W. McCullar. His sister, Mrs. T. A. Ledbetter, is with him on his visit here.

AUGUST 8, 1919

J. W. Houston and J. H. Strickland of Honey Grove, Texas, brother - in - law and nephew, respectively, of Gil Wilson, called in company with Mr. Wilson to see us Tuesday. They are both old McNairians and are well fixed in the Lone Star State. Each expressed a desire to become readers of the Independent, which was granted.

AUGUST 15, 1919

S. L. Prince who moved from this community to Fannin county, Texas, 25 years ago, is back on a visit. The most noted change with him in the county is growth of the timber.

NEW HOPE

T. J. Estill, a very old man of this community, is afflicted with a cancer which has destroyed almost the entire left side of his face and is rapidly eating its way to his brain. The preacher made three visits to this old man's home during the recent meeting and he was finally converted, Baptized and joined the church.

Andrew Carnegie

Andrew Carnegie died Monday at his summer home at Lenox, Mass.

He was 84 years of age, and an attack of bronchial pneumonia of three days resulted in his death. He was feeble old age. He perhaps, was the greatest philanthropist the world ever produced. He was only seconded by Rockefeller in wealth. He gave to public libraries and other charities in wealth. He gave to public libraries and other charities over $ 300,000,000. leaving an estate now of probably half a billion.

He was a Scotchman and started to work at 20 cents a day in a cotton mill in Pittsburg.

He was a grand old man, dying ripe in years and loving remembers of hundreds of thousands who have been recipients of his benevolence.

Mrs. W. H. Putman, her little daughter, Lillie Lee, and her son, Lieut. E. C. Putman, all of Chattanooga, visited in the home of Mrs. E. J. Hodges near Finger last week, Lieut. Putman was in Company "M", Fourth Infantry, and Third Division. After the death of Capt. Lewis of this company, who lived at Memphis, Lieut. Putman commanded for some time. This famous organization is one of the historic ones of the earlier times in the military records of the county U. S. Grant was once Capt. of M Company, and Zachary Taylor was at one time Colonel of the Fourth Infantry, Lieut. Putman was a typical soldier, and being well educated and a good historian before he volunteered into the service, he now possesses a wonderful amount of information covering every detail of the war.

AUGUST 22, 1919

Mrs. Lonas Payne, with her little daughter Lorene, has returned to her home in Knoxville after spending the past five weeks with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John H. Steadman.

AUGUST 29, 1919

On Aug 20. 1919, the death angel entered the home of Dr. J. E. Fortune and took from them their precious darling baby, age one year, six months and eleven days. Little Lester passed quietly away after a long and painful illness. We extend our sympathy to the family, though a great length of time will be required to heal the heart which sorrow and death have broken. But the assurance of meeting this sweet baby again in the place where we will never more part and so more separation can ever come.

Lester was laid to rest in Oak Hill cemetery. Services were conducted by Elder J. A. Houston.

Hallie Fortune

Mrs. Cora Parrish Haily, of Tampa, FLA., is visiting her sister - in - law, Mrs. Joe Gray and Mrs. W. H. Thompson. She has been at San Antonia visiting her brother Jordan Parish, a former citizen of Selmer. She reports that he is in bad health from the effects of flu and pneumonia last winter and can hardly speak above a whisper.

W. H. McAlpin of Waxahaci, Texas, son of the well remembered Hugh McAlpin, and sister, Mrs. Nettie Middleton and two daughters are visiting McNairy relatives and in company with J. E. Dunaway made us a social call Tuesday.

J. J. Williams and wife have moved to Sheffield, ALA to make their home with their daughter, Mrs. Earl Styles. The aged couple were alone and hardly able to keep up their nice home near the college and concluded to rent it and live with their devoted daughter. Selmer regrets to lose two such good people and only wish them many years more of peace and happiness.

SEPTEMBER 5, 1919

Death of Edgar Cherry

Edgar Cherry, aged 76, died at his home in Savannah Tuesday of last week after failing health for several months. He was known to many of our people. He was the only son of William Cherry and inherited large properties. The old homestead on the banks where Gen. Grant made his headquarters and left on April 5, 1862, for Pittsburg Landing, when the great battle was fought, Thousands have visited the noted and beautiful residence.

Another Knife Killing

A few days ago a man by the name of Howell stabbed a young man by the name of Brumley near Cypress. Brumley died from the wounds Monday. We have not the particulars, but from what we are creditably informed it was a cold blooded murder. Howell had not been arrested Monday, and nothing done towards enforcing the law. Have we no officers to arrest and prosecute such cases?

Since the above we hear Brumley is not dead and may live. Howell has been bound to grand jury in $1000 bond.

J. W. Blassengame, aged 74 years living near Ramer, died at his home last Thursday and was buried in Ramer cemetery. He was an upright Christian gentleman and highly esteemed by a large acquaintance.

Mrs. Eliza Tate, aged about 56, died last week. She was an at Mt. Zion cemetery, Rev. J. W. Wallace officiating. She was an estimable woman and devoted Christian. She was the wife of J. T. Tate.

A telephone message advises us that Dr. W. G. Petty, died at Hominy, OKLA Wednesday and will be buried at Chambers cemetery Saturday.

On Monday morning, Sept 3rd. James W. Blassengame passed to his reward, without warning to family or friends. His remains were laid to rest in Ramer cemetery Thursday afternoon about 3:00 o'clock, the writer, assisted by Rev. James Hanner, conducted the funeral of relatives and friends the writer has ever seen at a funeral, and every heart seemed to thorn at the solemnity the occasion.

Brother Blassingame was born in Lawrence county on Nov. 11, 1847. He professed faith in Christ in early manhood and united with New Hope Missionary Baptist church near Pocahontas. He was married to Miss Matilda Pipkin Feb 22, 1871. At the time Cypress Creek Baptist church (near Ramer) was organized he was present and was one of those who constituted the organization. He remained a member of this church in full fellowship until GOD was pleased to call him to his reward.

He is said to have been a good, kind husband and loving father, and much devoted to his family.

Brother Blassengame leaves a wife and seven children, and many friends to mourn his loss. In his death we feel that, the church has lost a stay, the community one of its best citizens, and the family a husband and father whose place can never be filled.

Brother Blassengame, like all of us, was not perfect here, but he has gone to that home where there are no imperfections.

May his beloved and bereaved wife and children ever follow the same loving Savior in which he trusted, and when they come to cross over the river be greeted by him who went before them, surrounded by angels to welcome them home.

We extend our heartful sympathy to all the relatives.

J. S. Gooch.

C. O. and E. H. Crocker, two very prosperous farmers of Texas, were visiting their nephews, J. M. and A. H. Crocker at Cypress, this being the first time the former visited Tennessee in about 20 years.

SEPTEMBER 19, 1919

On Sunday morning, Sept. 14, 1919, the writer preached the funeral of Bro. Windol Hooper, at Mt. Gilead church, a large crowd attending the service. In the afternoon the W. O. W. fraternity unveiled the monument erected to the memory of this worthy comrade. The ceremony was a very solemn and impressive one.

Bro. Windol Hooper was the only son of Bro. L. O. and Mrs. Hooper. He was born in McNairy county July 9, 1892, he was married to Miss Lockie Mitchell March 24, 1914, professed faith in Christ and united with Mt. Gilead Baptist church in August, 1918 and departed this life Nov. 2, 1918. He leaves a wife and two small children, a father, two sisters, with many other relatives and friends to mourn his loss.

Bro. Hooper was a fine specimen of young manhood, beloved by all who knew him. May his many unsaved friends prepare for death as he did, and receive as abundant entrance into that blessed home where parting never comes.

We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his bereaved widow their children, his father and sisters, with his many friends.

May GOD grant them all a part in that glad reunion at the coming of our gracious Lord.

His Personal Friend,

J. G. Gooch.

The subject of this sketch, Mrs. Eliza Tate, was born Dec. 18, 1863, and was married to J. F. Tate Dec 22, 1881. To this union was born five children, two of them preceeded her to a better world.

On April 19, 1919, after an illness of four weeks, Mrs. Tate's died and the church in which she lived lost one of its most faithful members, and Mr. Tate a kind and loving wife and the children a true and affectionate mother. The neighborhood in which she lived has sustained a great loss. She was indeed an Angel of Mercy to the sick.

We would say to the children, not to weep, for some sweet day you will meet your precious mother again, and to Mr. Tate, don't weep as those that have no hope, be faithful awhile longer and you will some day meet the one that through so many years has shared your joy and sorrows.

After an impressive burial service by Rev. Wallace of Selmer, her remains were laid to rest in the Mt. Zion cemetery.

Written by one who knew her.

SEPTEMBER 26, 1919

Mrs. Nannie D. Chambers, who has been visiting relatives in Texas, and Oklahoma has returned home.

OCTOBER 10, 1919

After a long illness Mrs. Martha South died at home of her daughter, Mrs. Dock Armstrong last Thursday. Her remains were interred in the Gravelhill cemetery Friday, Rev. Chensult conducting the funeral service.

Winnie Cole (col) aged 64 years, at her home in Selmer, Monday, Oct 6th and was buried in Prospect cemetery Tuesday at 4:00 p. m. A large course of colored people attended her funeral. A number of the best families sent flowers to her home. She was rather a remarkable colored woman, being rather aristocratic and dignified. She had shown kindness to many of the white families in time of sickness. She had been very frail for years, and for several weeks was simply lingering, at the end of much suffering as a nervous wreck. She leaves Ed Cole as her only child.

OCTOBER 17,1919

After a few days of intense suffering, Miss Bertha Milstead died Sunday at 10:00 o'clock a.m.

Bertha's death was a shock even to her near chums, who didn't hear of her death until she was buried. Her body was laid to rest Monday in the Nethery cemetery, Bro. J. A. Houston held services.

Bertha was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. D. C. Milstead and about 12 years of age, and until the illness which caused her death, was the picture of health, lovely to look upon and possessed of all virtues which make sweet and precious girls. She was intelligent and loved by all, and was a great factor in the happiness in this well - ordered home.

We extend our sympathy to the family. Though a great length of time will be required to heal the hearts which sorrow and affliction have broken, this should be a warning to her many young friends.

A Friend.

C. S. Hurst died Tuesday at his home in North part of the county. He was about 78 years of age. He had in early life led a rather eventful career, but later was a good citizen.

DIED --- Lettie May Estes, about four years of age, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Estes, died Saturday morning of some sudden throat malady. She was buried at Oak Hill cemetery Sunday afternoon, Rev. J. A. Houston officiating at the grave. She was a sweet little girl and much beloved by all as such. The friends attested their sorrow for the family by the floral offerings covering the little casket.

Death of an Old Citizen

William A. Reeder, aged 77 years, died at his home in Selmer Saturday, October 18th, and was buried in Oak Hill cemetery Sunday afternoon, Rev. J. A. Houston, assisted by Rev. J. W. Wallace, conducted at the home religious exercises. A large crowd gathered at the home and also at the cemetery.

Mr. Reeder had been an invalid and confined to his bed and room for several months. He was afflicted with palsy for several years. He died very unexpectedly, as he was apparently as well as usual, and died without a moments premonition.

He was a Confederate Veteran serving through the war with Gen. Forrest.

He leaves a wife and one son and two grand children. He was a good citizen. He was not a member of any church, but to Rev. Wallace had expressed a hope for his future condition.

OCTOBER 31, 1919

Again the death angel has taken from our midst one of our dear family, on Saturday afternoon about 4:20, Oct. 18th, dear Lettie Marie passed quietly through the valley of death to a brighter home where angels stood beckoning her to come. Lettie was born July 27, 1915. She was the baby child of Mr. and Mrs. F. E. Estes, who have lived most of their life in McNairy county. The family who survive are Roy and Freeman, her brothers, and her father and mother. She was just blooming and blossoming into young childhood.

It seem hard for us to part with her, her sweet voice cannot be heard on this earth again, but she will remain in the memory of those who loved her. She had not passed many milestones along the journey of life, but it was GOD'S will to call her home.

May this be a lesson to all of us, that life is so uncertain yet death must surely come. we must die in order to live again. This life is only a shadow compared with that one that lies beyond.

Rev. J. A. Houston made an impressive talk at the funeral which was conducted at Oak Hill cemetery, where the remains were laid to rest.

A. Brother.

W. B. McHughes, of Gravelhill died Saturday night and was buried Sunday afternoon. He leaves a wife and several small children.

Brother Wallace conducted the funeral services.

NOVEMBER 7, 1919

Death of Another Old Citizen

John Frank Dillion aged 70 years 11 months and ten days died at his home of his son Carl Saturday Nov. 1 of pneumonia. He was sick only a few days. He was buried at Beuna Vista cemetery Sunday afternoon. Rev. Newsom and Maxedon officiating.

Frank Dillion as he was familiarly called, was a big hearted industrious ,man. He had made his home with his son Carl for the last three years. The following children survive him, Mrs. Mary Moore, Mrs. Emma Shelton, Mrs. Zana Cheshire, Mrs. Lola Wilson, John E. Dillion, Mrs. Pearl Hester, Mrs. Minnie Hester, Carl B. Dillion, Grover C. Dillion, Mrs. Ora Tull, Miss Cordia Dillion.

Died -- Oct. 23, 1919 at his home east of Selmer, Charles Mideleton, aged about 55 years, of pneumonia, following two operations for appendicitis. He never was married and his two aged aunts raised him, and he lived during his entire life with them. He was a hard working honest man. He leaves many friends.

NOVEMBER 14, 1919

Miss Ida Whitaker attended church at Pebble Hill Sunday.

Mr. Will Whitaker one of our most successful farmers made a business trip to Corinth Saturday.

DECEMBER 5, 1919

J. C. Springer and wife of Miama, Tex, Mrs. R. T. Emmons and M. D. Huggins of Hiney Grove, Tex are spending a few days here on account of the illness of their mother and sister, the widow of J. C. Springer, who had a light stroke of apoplexy two weeks ago. We are glad to report her condition much improved.

Mrs. Luther Erwin, daughter of J. B. Chenault, who has been confined to her room for a long time with tuberculosis, died Saturday and was buried in the Gravelhill cemetery Sunday afternoon.

DECEMBER 12, 1919

Mrs. M. C. Anderson died at her home here after an illness of several days. She was a good, Christian woman and a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. She leaves three sons, R. H., Joe and Robert and several grand children. Funeral services were conducted Saturday by Arch Houston of Selmer, with interment at Mt. Vernon cemetery.

DECEMBER 19, 1919

Infant Dies

T. L. Anderson and wife have the sympathy of their friends in the loss of their three weeks old infant which died last Thursday.

Relatives here have received news of the serious condition of Mrs. J. W. Warren, who recently under went an operation at El Rena, Okla. Mrs. Warren is the daughter of J. R. Hamm, Sr. and she and her husband are well known in this county where they were reared, and have many friends who will learn with regret of her illness.

DECEMBER 25, 1919

Reminiscences of Old Purdy

In perusing the columns of last week's Independent, I read with much interest the article "Nearly Forty Years Ago". Many of us older citizens who read the article were made to think of the ones with whom we were associated in the long ago, many of whom, in fact nearly all have passed into the mystic beyond. While reminiscently inclined we write the following.

Isaac W. Nash and myself together with C. C. Lewter, established the Independent in March, 1878, Mr. Nash was an old newspaper man, having run the only paper in Purdy before the war.

The old Independent changed hands in 1890, and not long afterward it turned its toes to the violets.

An event that startled the entire community was the sudden deaths with in a few hours of each other of Judge J. F. McKinney and Col. N. C. Riggs. While making out our mail, Judge McKinney came into our office about 9 o'clock at night and soon left for his home. In seemingly only a few minutes, the screams of a female voice was heard saying "Father is dead" . He died a few minutes after reaching his home. Next morning by daylight an announcement was made at my home by Uncle Billy Marshall that "Mr. Riggs was dead". This spread like wildfire and the people thought at first that something was wrong, but soon found

(this part of the paper was unable to read)

Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Oliver, of Selmer were here Monday to attend the funeral of their grand - daughter, Mrs. Hayes, who died in a hospital at Memphis, following an operation. Her remains came Monday and interred in the Mt. Vernon cemetery, Rev. J. A. Houston, of Selmer conducting the services. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Oliver and formerly resided here and has many friends to hear of her death. The family have the sympathy of the community in their bereavement.

John Dillion and family left Saturday for Des Arc, Ark. where they will make their home.

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