ADAMS,  MINNIE --We ask the Lord to bless us as, with much sadness in our hearts, we will try to write the obituary of our darling mother, Minnie Adams. We feel that Jesus returned to our home on May 13, 1982 at 7:00 in the morning and called our beloved mother to heaven to rest. She was a faithful member of the Blair Branch Church since August, 1947, and attended as long as her health would permit. She was a good, hard-working Christian mother, and she had her share of heartaches and pain, but she bore her suffering without complaining. She was born November 20, 1982* at Jeremiah, Kentucky to the late Green and Sarah (Sis) Blair. She was married to John Craft in 1908. He preceded her in death in 1923. To this union were born three children. Two preceded her in death; one daughter from this marriage survives. In the year 1924, January 9, she was united in marriage to Steve Adams. They were not blessed with any children, but Uncle Steve had a little daughter by a former marriage, whom she took, loved and cared for as her own. They had so much love in their hearts. They took two orphan nieces and loved and raised them as their own also. They always said she had four daughters, and she felt love and respect for each one. She loved us as though we were hers, and she wanted other people to think of us as theirs, not foster adopted. We loved her, yes we loved her, but Jesus loved her more. He now has called her to Heaven's shining shore. Survivors include one daughter, Artie Craft Adams of Ravensdale, Washington; one step-daughter, Alma Adams Adler of Schererville, Indiana; and two foster adopted daughters, Gertrude Stamper Gish of Pequat Lakes, Minnesota and Mildred Stamper Adams of Jeremiah, Kentucky. Also surviving are 18 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren, 2 brothers - Rankin Blair of Jeremiah, Ky., and J.B. Caudill of Salem, Oregon; 3 sisters - Tina Ison of Jeremiah, Ky., Allie Breeding of Isom, and Nora Caudill of Winchester, Ky.; several nieces and nephews and a host of friends and relatives. She will be missed by the brothers and sisters of the church, who respected and loved her. Funeral services were held May 15, 1982 at the Blair Branch Regular Baptist Church with the Rev. I.D. Back and Rev. Elwood Cornett officiating. Burial was in the Isom Cemetery. Letcher Funeral Home of Whitesburg had charge of funeral arrangements. The daughters wish to thank Rev. Back and Rev. Cornett for their consoling words, and all that gave flowers and helped in any way. May God bless all.
Written by Minnie's daughters

I will not pass this way again
Lord, let me stop a while
To help someone on the way
And make somebody smile!
I will not pass this way again
Lord let me find the orphan
And give them food and show them love
And lead them to thy door!
I will not pass this way again
Lord, let me love and give
And do according to thy will
While on this earth I live
So my darling daughters there is one thing more I want to say,
Will you all try to meet Mother and Dad in Heaven someday.
Mom

*Date of birth typed as exactly as appears in minutes.--dlt

ADAMS,  WILLIAM R.--On January 27, 1905, William R. Adams (Bill) came into the world in a two-room log house at Isom, Kentucky, on Rock House Creek, in Letcher County, the son of loving parents, James and Sarah Back Adams. Bill was one of twelve children; Cindy, John P., Mary Ann, Julie, David, Charlie and Betty preceded him in death while Hattie, Steve, Fred, Herman and Kenneth, a nephew, who was like a brother, remain. Although James and Sarah were not highly educated, they surrounded their children with love, put food on the table, taught the values of honesty, hard work and helping their friends and neighbors, and encouraged them to reach out for a better life. Bill learned well from his early years at home, at Blair Branch School, at Doty Church, and as he roamed the hills, fished, hunted and played with his friends and brothers and sisters. All this was a vital part of growing up and setting direction for his life. Bill moved beyond the familiar surroundings at home with "Pap" and "Maw," when he boarded a train for Hamilton, Ohio, in 1925 for a job with Estate Stove Company. Although the work was good, Bill wanted to further his education and serve the people of Eastern Kentucky, whom he loved so dearly. He returned to Eastern Normal School and trained to be a teacher. While at Eastern, Bill met Janey Wright of Crafts Colley in Letcher County. They were married July 23, 1928. For forty-two years they worked together to establish a home and raise a family. Janey died March 13, 1976. Bill and Janey had three children: Lois, Douglas and James; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Following several years of teaching in Letcher County, Bill joined the Kentucky/West Virginia Power Company in Whitesburg and Hazard. He served his community as State Representative for two terms, 1948-1952, and participated in a variety of activities for the betterment of his fellowman, always extending a helping hand to those in need. Bill's seventy-seven years were mostly filled with joy and success, but as sure as life exists, death must come. Bill departed this life at 8:12 a.m., January 22, 1982, to join Janey, Pap and Maw, David, Cindy, Charlie, John P., Mary Ann and Betty, and all the other friends who went before him. He was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church at Blair Branch, being accepted into the Church February 20, 1982. This was the church of his ancestors. His wife, Sister Janey, was a member of this church for many years before she departed this life. She had been baptized into the Doty Church in September, 1929, but brought her membership to Blair Branch Church after it was organized. Although Bill will be missed by his family and friends and all those he touched, we feel our loss is Heaven's gain.
Written by his children, James, Douglas and Lois

BALDRIDGE, ALLIE --It is with much sorrow I will try to write, by the help of God, the obituary of my wonderful mother-in-law, Allie Baldridge. Allie was the daughter of Nathan Maggard and Elizabeth Pratt Maggard. She was born March 1, 1894 at Leburn, Kentucky, in Knott County. She passed from this life September 20, 1981 at the McDowell Hospital. Her stay here on earth was 87 years, 6 months and 19 days. At an early age she was married to Charlie Baldridge. To this union were born eight children. Her husband and seven children preceded her in death. Left to mourn their loss are: one daughter, Joyce Harrison, of Louisville, Kentucky, seventeen grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Many friends and relatives will miss her. At the age of 17, Allie joined the Old Regular Baptist Church at New Home. She lived a Christian life, and went to church as long as she was able. When she got disabled due to a broken hip, she couldn't walk but wanted to go to church. We would take her and pack her into church in a chair. She would say, "I don't want to be any trouble." She was never trouble, it was always a pleasure to help her in any way we could. Allie was a good mother, and a friend to all that knew her. Her doors were always open. Her brother and sisters would go and visit her, and sing and hold prayer. She would always say, "I am so glad they could come." She was a mother to me for forty-five years. She always gave her children good advice. I felt I was one of them, because she treated me so. She was sick for many years with a heart condition, but bore her sickness with patience. I have rushed her to the hospital so many times, not expecting her to live until we got there. But that powerful hand would reach down and lift her up and let her come back to be with us a little longer. On Saturday, September 19, 1981, she was in I.C.U. at McDowell. There were times she didn't recognize who was there. Her daughter was there, she came out and said, "Mamaw has woke up, and is asking for you." I went in and said, "Mamaw, are you feeling better?" She said, "Yes, I feel better, I believe I am going to live." I said, in my heart knowing it was a short time," Yes, Mamaw, you will live again." Those were the last words I heard her say, she went in a coma. She suffered a lot the last months here. I have heard her say so many times, "I wish the good Lord would come and take me home where my suffering will be over. On Sunday, September 20, 1981 at 12 o'clock, the good Lord reached down with those loving hands and took her on that journey home. I feel she is resting around that throne of God, with all her loved one that have gone on. We miss her so much. I feel in my heart I will see her again where there will be no hospitals, heart trouble, or pacemakers to make the old tired heart beat. To all her family that have not made peace, now is the time, go to the same God Mamaw went to, and you can see her again. Those little frail arms that have reached for us so many times won't be frail any more. There is a place where there is joy and peace, no troubles, sorrows or pain can enter there.
Written by her daughter-in-law, Deletha Baldridge

BLAIR,  "LITTLE" BENNIE --Bennie H. Blair was born November 4, 1913, being 68 years old at the time of his death on December 1, 1981. He was the son of the late Preston and Celia Adams Blair. Bennie met and married Bessie Watts June 6, 1931 and to this union were born 12 children. Two of the children, twin girls, preceded Bennie in death. Left to mourn his passing were 7 sons, Willis Blair, Everett Blair, Larry Blair and Lexter Blair, and 3 daughters, Mary Helen Blair, Nancy Carol Blair and Bulah Mae Barrier. Also surviving are three sisters - Millie Slone, Sarah Watts and Molly Halcomb; 15 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.  In 1940 there was a great change in Little Bennie's life as he found the Lord and took Jesus to be his savior. Bennie joined the Doty Creek Regular Baptist Church, where he was a member for 13 years. Then, when the Blair Branch Regular Baptist Church was established, he became its 6th member. In 1956 Little Bennie became the Blair Branch Church's clerk and remained the church clerk until his death, an office he filled to the very best of his ability, always being careful to record the proceedings accurately.
Daddy, we miss you, the community misses you and the church misses you, but we feel sure our loss is heaven's gain.

BLAIR,  LEXTER --Lexter Blair was born August 4, 1954, and entered eternal life February 27, 1982, being 27 years old. Lexter Blair was the son of the late Bennie H. Blair and Bessie Watts Blair. Lexter Blair was preceded in death by his first wife, Madonna Faye Blair in August of 1978. She was 21 years old at the time of her death. Madonna and Lexter Blair were married only five weeks at the time of her death. Lexter Blair remarried in November 1981, and left behind to mourn his second wife, Penny Faye Blair. Also left to mourn his passing are six brothers and three sisters, along with his mother, Bessie Blair, and lots of friends and relatives. Life is a mystery to us all. We don't fully understand why so many things happen the way they do. But if we will put our trust and faith in the Lord and live for Him, someday we'll know the reason for many of our burdens we have to bear. There's a reason for everything that happens to us all. So, we must prepare for death now, because we were all born to die.
Written by Blair family

CAMPBELL, BETHEL SR. --Bethel Campbell, Sr., the son of Sim Campbell and Elizabeth Watts Campbell, was born September 11, 1914, making his stay on earth 67 years, four months and one day. He left this life January 12, 1982, at the Whitesburg Hospital. He leaves to mourn his passing one sister, Susanna Campbell, Ulvah, Kentucky, one brother, Troy Campbell, of Versailles, Kentucky, and a host of nieces and nephews. Bethel has served the Lord for years. We feel that our loss is Heaven's gain. He loved all of his neighbors, friends and loved ones. He will be missed greatly by all.
Written by Mr. & Mrs. Bethel Campbell, Jr.

CAUDILL, ARLIE --Dear God help me. I need your help this morning to write this. I have written lots of obituaries of my friends, but this is the saddest one I have ever tried to write, as I sit here alone at my table this morning on June 24, 1982. Arlie Caudill was born on July 1, 1905, and passed away on March 9, 1982, at about 20 minutes until 9 o'clock on Tuesday morning, making him 76 years, 8 months and 8 days old. He was the son of Alamander and Sally Ison Caudill. He leaves to mourn his passing his companion, Nancy Ann Hawkins Caudill, and eleven children: Lee Caudill of Westland, Michigan; Emma Meade of Neon, Ky.; Grant Caudill of Premium, Ky.; Bessie Jones of Detroit, Michigan; Essie Mullins of Dearborn Hgts., Michigan; (they are twin girls); Sallie Jones of Premium, Ky.; Boyd Caudill of Ankeny, Iowa; Paul Caudill of Taylor, Michigan; Thomas Caudill of Des Moines, Iowa; Hazel Back of Premium, Ky.; Sandra (Caudill) Caudill of Premium, Ky. Estill Caudill preceded him in death March 3, 1974 at the age of 46. An infant son named Lloyd also preceded him in death. Also surviving are 36 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and six sisters: Bonnie Hampton, Ola Cornett, Ada Dixon, Elsie Dixon, Drinda Cornett and Gladys Royce. He had lots of cousins and friends. Arlie joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in 1950, making him 32 years a strong believer in the Bible. He really read the Bible. He first joined the Big Cowan Church, and later went to the Little Rock Church to set up the Kingdom Come Church in the old school house across the river from where the new church house is now. We had our ups and downs in our church, but Arlie's life was in his church and he did his very best to hold it together. I have always been by his side to help in any way I could. We have been deacons about 30 years. He never got tired of working for the good of our church. No matter how cold the weather was, he always went to open the door on church time and have the fire built and warm. Our daughter, Sallie, is the janitor of the church, but he would always go help her. He also took care of the graveyard where he now sleeps. So sleep on, honey, until that trumpet blows, then you will rise again, and we will all be together. He prayed he would live to see his children come into the church to live for the Lord. Our oldest son, Lee, and his wife are living for the Lord, and our daughter, Hazel, joined the Kingdom Come Church on the 6th day of February and was baptized on March 7, just two days before her daddy died. He would clap his hands and thank God his prayers were answered. They have moved our reunion to heaven where I am longing to go. I know you are waiting for me. Daddy, although we saw you suffer here on earth, and tried to do everything we possibly could do to help you, we know you aren't suffering any more. Our homeplace is so lonely and we miss you so badly, but the best of it all, we know the good Lord is taking care of you now. Our highest hopes are to get to see you again someday in a prettier place than here on earth. We love you, Daddy.
Written by a broken-hearted wife and children
The sun won't go down in that city
For Jesus is the light.
There the flowers will be blooming forever
And the sun it won't ever go down.
Jesus picked a beautiful flower
When he called my Daddy home.
He'll be blooming over yonder
Where the sun won't ever go down.

CAUDILL,  IVRY --With much sadness in our hearts, we will try to write the obituary of our beloved husband and father, Ivry Caudill. He was born the son of Phoebe and William G. Caudill of Jeremiah, Kentucky on October- 2, 1917. He passed from this life at his residence at Letcher, Kentucky on January 10, 1982, being 64 years, 3 months and 8 days of age at his passing. He leaves his loving wife of twenty-five years, Wanda; four children: Sharon Whitaker, Judi Campbell, Darlene Sills and Jeffrey Caudill; four grandchildren; sons-in-law: Edgar Whitaker, Jr., Danny Campbell and Steve Sills; sisters: Evaline Hampton, Malinda Turner and Hettie Mayes; and a large number of relatives and friends to mourn his passing. He was a member of the Little Dove Regular Baptist Church since 1952. He was semi-retired, having been in the coal mining business, motel business and building business. Ivry had heart problems for awhile, having had a heart attack in 1969 and open heart surgery in February of 1981. He is sadly missed as a loving father to his children and as a devoted husband. His memories will live with us always. We feel that he is resting peacefully with the Lord in his heavenly home. We all hope to join him some day.
Written by his wife and children

CAUDILL,  JOANNA --With the help of the Lord, I will try to write this obituary of a loving little angel, Joanna Caudill. Joanna was born July 15, 1970 at Ft. Thomas, Kentucky, and passed from this life July 14, 1981, making her stay on earth one day short of eleven years. She leaves to mourn her death her mother, Bertha Caudill; her father, Jimmy Caudill of Jeremiah, Kentucky; two brothers, Wade and Randy, both at home; one sister, Kathy, and one brother-in-law, Ward Whittaker, and her special little nephew, Kelly. Also surviving are grandparents, Finley and Cora Everidge, and grandmother Betty Caudill of Letcher, Kentucky, and a large number of relatives and friends who mourn her passing. To know little Joanna was to love her. She was loved by all who knew her. In November of 1980 she was stricken down with cancer and spent most of her time in the hospital. She bore her sickness with patience. I thank God I got to visit her at Louisville Hospital and Whitesburg Hospital. I grew to love her so much. Jimmy and Bertha, I know you will miss little Joanna and you will have a lot of lonely days. But look up and trust in the Lord. If you haven't already made peace with Him, please start now. Someday when this life here is over you can live with her again. Such as this little one is the kingdom of heaven made of. She is a little gem added to God's collection. Her suffering is over, her little tears all wiped away, never to suffer any more pain nor grief. Jimmy and Sis, we know how you must feel; we gave up one the same age as little Joanna, with the same dreadful disease. But thank God we feel we made it right with God and will live with Him and Joanna again. Since talking with you both and listening to you, I feel you are both praying. Please don't give up, keep praying for that better day.
Written by an uncle, Verion Caudill

Since this letter was written, I have made arrangements to go and see Joanna in her new home.
Her mom, Bertha

CAUDILL, VIRGINIA HAMILTON --Today we are grieving for one we loved so dearly has departed this life, but the angels in heaven are happy for another tired, weary Christian has winged her way home. She has crossed the river and reached the bright shore where she'll praise the good Lord while eternal ages roll on. Virginia was the daughter of the late Arch and Susan Combs Hamilton. She was born February 28, 1916, making her sojourn here on earth 65 years, 6 months and 11 days. Thirty-nine years ago Virginia met and married Ben Caudill. To this union were born three daughters: Brenda Brown, Gwendolyn Simpson and Nancy Oakes; and two sons: Larry Caudill and Tim Caudill, who is in the U.S. Army. She had a son, Bill Jack Dixon, who preceded her in death. Virginia had been sick for a long time, and very sick for the last two or three years, being in the hospital much of the time. During her sickness she realized that life here is short and full of trouble; so she turned her affections on things eternal. The Lord heard her prayers and had mercy on her. In May, 1979, she was baptized into the fellowship of the Mt. Olivet Church, but her sickness made her unable to attend very much. Virginia leaves to mourn her passing her husband, Ben Caudill; her three daughters, Brenda, Gwendolyn and Nancy; her two sons, Larry and Tim; eleven grandchildren; two sisters, Elizabeth Martin and Ina Rose Back and a host of other relations and friends. To you, her family and friends, let me admonish you to make Virginia's God your God, for He is a present help in a time of trouble. You are sad but she is comforted. You are grieving, but she is happy. If you could only visualize the beauties of that land, you would say, "Stay there, I'll meet you in the sweet by-and-by." Put your affections on things eternal for everything in this life must pass. The community of Blackey has lost a good neighbor and citizen; the Mt. Olivet Church has lost a good sister; your children have lost a kind and loving mother, but heaven has gained another angel. During her years of sickness she was often heard singing "Nearer My God To Thee" and "Lord I'm Coming Home." I believe she is at home with the Lord. Written by Glenn Hampton

COMBS,  BERTHA H. --The Lord called our wonderful mother, and sister-in-the-Lord, home as she slept in Hazard Appalachian Regional Hospital about midnight October 10, 1981. She was so quiet and peaceful as she answered His call -- not even her room mate, nor her nurse, heard a sound. Bertha had been sick for several weeks, and she indicated that her stay on earth was coming to an end, but she would eagerly say that heaven was her future home. Anyone and everyone who knew Sister Bertha had no doubt about that, as her daily life proved she was looking for a better life. Any conversation with her, after a minute or two, was about the Lord, and how good He had been to her. Bertha was born into the home of Wilburn and Elizabeth Cornett Hampton August 11, 1900 at Jeremiah, Kentucky in Letcher County. At the age of 16, she married Sam Combs of Knott County, and they had a happy life together until death called Sam from this earth to heaven September 23, 1946. At the tender age of 17, Bertha felt the need of a Savior, so she repented and got forgiveness of her sins and joined the Little Dove Regular Baptist Church on the 3rd Saturday in April, 1918. She was a faithful member for 63 years, not letting the weather nor hardships prevent her from attending her church. Many times she would walk in the snow to church and find only one or two at the meeting, so they would sing and pray, and trod in the snow back home. The church was foremost in her life. She never got away from the old-time ways, and every church time found her preparing food to feed her company, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Her door was always open for visitors and everyone felt so welcome around her. When she became unable to attend church, she waited patiently for someone to stop and tell her about the church services and activities of the church, and when good news was brought to her, she would shout and rejoice. Even though she could not attend church, she would have her friends and family prepare food for anyone who might stop and eat at her table -- all were welcome. Bertha was blessed with a large family that she reared to love and fear the Lord, and to be honest and upright citizens. She was an excellent example for them to follow. Her first-born were a set of twins, Mary and Joseph; followed by another set of twins, Rebecca and Sarah. Then the following were born: Isiah, Paul, Virginia Lee, Martha and Ida Gay. She also reared four step-children, Claudia, Raymond, Nola and Watson. Joseph, Mary Combs Kincer and Virginia Lee Back preceded her in death. Rebecca Combs Toby, Sarah Combs Donahue, Isiah, Paul, Martha Combs and Ida Gay Cody lost a good Christian mother, the community lost a thoughtful neighbor, the church lost a devoted sister, but heaven gained a jewel -- another flower to be added to the Flower Garden. All her sickness and worries have come to an end. She had endured an enormous amount of sickness in the last several months of her life, and she never ceased to worry and pray for the sinners - always hoping that one little word would be spoken to soften the hearts of the lost. No doubt but what many of her words, and conversations, are lodged in hearts of her loved ones, and will cause them to move in the right direction in due time. Our prayer is that all her family will follow in her footsteps and meet her in her heavenly home.
Written by her family

EDWARDS, JENNY SUE --Sister Jenny Edwards was born September 16, 1943 and passed from this life February 11, 1982. Left to mourn her passing are one daughter, Mary Annette; three sisters, Evelyn Taylor, Arminda Ritchie and Phyllis Thornsberry, and a host of nieces and nephews and friends. Preceding her in death were a brother and sister and mother and father. Sister Jenny had been sick for a very long time. But, during her sickness she found the need of a Savior. Sister Jenny called upon the name of the Lord and was born again. She joined the Little Dove Church a few years ago and was a faithful member. Through all her sickness and troubles she still went to church, even when she wasn't able. Her faith in the Lord never did falter. Sister Jenny loved everyone and everyone loved Jenny. She always had a special place in her heart for the ministers. Everyone that knew Sister Jenny loved her. Sister Jenny laid her treasure beyond this vale of tears. Her home was always open to Jesus and her friends. So all you who love Jesus and do His holy will, live like Sister Jenny and in Heaven you will dwell. He'll comfort and redeem you, and take you to the skies, and bid you live forever, where pleasure never dies. We'll miss Sister Jenny, with that beautiful little smile. But weep not for Jenny, for she weeps no more. Let us all pick up the pieces and strive for that heavenly land where we'll live together in a heavenly blend.
May God bless us all.  Written by: Bro. Toby Breeding

ELDRIDGE, BOYD --Boyd Eldridge, 92, of Blackey, died February 6 at the Whitesburg Appalachian Regional Hospital. Funeral services were held Sunday, February 8, at the Mt. Olivet Regular Baptist Church, Blackey, with Rev. I.D. Back, Rev. Elwood Cornett and Rev. Agnan Back officiating. Burial was in the Pearl Dixon Cemetery, Blackey. He was the son of the late Ira and Barbara Ellen Coots Eldridge. He is survived by his wife, Polly Eldridge; one son, Carless Eldridge, Fairborn, Ohio; seven daughters: Ersley Eldridge, Hallie; Oma Jo Branson, Letcher; Mabel Sparkman, Xenia, Ohio; Audrey Halcomb, Ulvah; Vera Banks, Blackey; Mantie Crase, Hamilton, Ohio; Mae Rogers, Blackey; one brother, Finley Eldridge, Hallie; one sister, Minerva Halcomb, Hallie; 33 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.  Daddy loved Mount Olive Church and loved to fill his seat at church. So, write what you feel pleasing to God, as I believe the Almighty God has my daddy with Him. He loved to read his Bible. He would tell me over the phone, "Mantie, I've read another book in the Bible." He wanted so much to be able to read the complete Bible, but death took him before he got to read all of it.

FIELDS, AMBROSE J. --With a sad and weary heart I will attempt to write an obituary of my dear husband, Ambrose J. Fields. He was the son of Joe and Nancy Caudill Fields. He was born March 16, 1888 and departed this life March 6, 1981, being almost ninety-three years at his death. On November 6, 1908, he married Rebecca Ann Wells, and to this union six children were born. One died in infancy. Surviving are five sons: Dennis, Pascal, Coleman, Fonda and Joe. Rebecca Ann died April 14, 1936. On August 8, 1936, he married Minnie Stallard, and we lived almost forty-five years - a happy life - together. We would try to go to church somewhere every Sunday. Although he never did attach himself to any church, he would always talk about the beautiful home he was going to. He said it was the prettiest place he ever saw. I believe he is resting around the throne of God. The Old Regular Baptist was his belief. He was honest, and worked hard raising his family. Ambrose's health started failing him in 1974, when he had his first stroke. After this he was never well any more, and we had to depend on our children and our friends to take us to church and places we needed to go. From this time on we spent our lives together at home. I cared for him the best I could. He was in and out of the hospital, and he bore his suffering and never seemed to worry. He always had a smile for everyone he met. Gone is the face we loved so dear, silent is the voice we loved to hear, too far away for voice or speech, but not too far for our thoughts to reach. So sleep on, Ambrose, and take your rest. You have been a loving husband and father. I will meet you in the morning, when you leave your dusty grave.
Written by his wife, Minnie Fields

FIELDS,  ELDER CLARENCE --I will try to write the obituary of my beloved husband. He entered eternal life July 11, 1982. He was born March 27, 1909, to Wilson and Eliza Jane Hall Fields. He was 73 years, 3 months and 15 days old. In 1929 he married Lucy Campbell, daughter of John and Teena Campbell. To this union were born seven children. One son, Franklin Delano, and one daughter, Marie, preceded him in death. Left to mourn his passing are his wife, Lucy, and five children: Louise Williams of Georgia; J.W. Fields of Louisville; Steve Edward Fields of Oklahoma; Joy Worley and Forester Fields of North Carolina. Fourteen grandchildren and three great-grandchildren also survive. He had one brother living, Elder Green Fields, and six sisters: Nerva Caudill, Bertie Holland, Celia Caudill, Gracie Hollins, Mary Bowling and Rhoda Kristian. A host of nieces and nephews also survive. In the spring of 1951 the Lord came to Clarence and showed him that he was lost and in danger of the flames of hell. He began to try to change his condition. He would steal away to the hills and try to pray. One evening in the fall he came home rejoicing and told me the Lord had forgiven him of his sins. From that time he went to church regularly. In February, 1952, he joined the Little Home Church. The first Sunday in March he was baptized by Elders Earl Howard and George Higgins. In a short time he got another burden. Again he prayed to the Lord. The Lord showed him he was to go preach His gospel. The first few years he had a hard time but kept trying to obey the Lord. He then went to the Little Bethlehem Church, where he was ordained to the ministry. He was assistant moderator there for several years. He was moderator of James Memorial Church and had his fellowship there about 14 years. He was also assistant clerk of the Indian Bottom Association for about 7 years. Clarence felt the Lord led him to the New Home Church where he was shown much love and appreciation. His brother, Green, then led in establishing a new church, the Rose of Sharon Church. Clarence felt like he was needed there and wanted to spend his last days in the church with his family. He visited the sick. He loved to visit with brothers in the church and talk about the Lord. He had no enemies that I know of. He always wanted peace in the churches and strived for that. His last 14 years he was in bad health and got worse as the years went by. But he went to church when he was able and several times when he wasn't able. He missed going to church toward the end. The brothers and sisters were so good to come and have church for him. He enjoyed that so much. He spent the last 8 weeks of his life in the hospital. He begged the Lord to take him home. I believe he is having a glorious time now. He was a good father and always tried to teach his children right. Children, if you want to go where Daddy is, you have to pray to the same God he did. You must give Him your whole heart and life, just like Daddy preached for 30 years. It is lonesome here without him. I am just waiting for the Lord to take me home, too.
With much sadness, his wife, Lucy Fields

FIELDS,  D. Y. --Papaw was the son of the late Bud and Eliza Fields. He was born at Ulvah, Kentucky, May 2, 1926 and entered eternal life at his home in Ulvah, Kentucky, on February 5, 1982. He is survived by his wife, Alma Fields, and their children, Donnie Fields of Independence, Ky.; Teresa Dixon of Ulvah, Ky.; and Pat Caudill of Isom, Ky. Also surviving him are three grandchildren, Kristi Dixon and Scott and Chad Fields. We all miss Papaw a lot. Whenever we needed him, he was always there. When Daddy couldn't take me places, Papaw always would. I miss him a lot, and I love him even more than I miss him.
Written by a granddaughter, Kristi Dixon   (10 years old)

GRIFFITH, JAMES --James Griffith was born December 1, 1894 and died July 12, 1982, being 87 years, 7 months and 11 days old at the time of his passing. He was the son of Harden and Martha Campbell Griffith. He was married to Frankie Watts in June of 1917. To this union were born ten children, one, a son, Lee, of Indiana, preceded him in death. Left to mourn his passing are his wife, Frankie; 3 daughters, Ada Campbell of North Carolina, Stella Halcomb of Ulvah and Gonnie Griffith of Hallie; 6 sons, Rence of Ohio; Arnold of Indiana, Rema and Leslie of Tennessee; Dellas and Harmie of Ulvah. One brother, John C. Griffith and one sister, Polly Jane Cornett, also survive. Jimmy, as he was known in the community, was loved and respected by all that knew him. He was a member of the Cedar Grove Regular Baptist Church and he served his country during World War I. We feel he has gone to rest. Written by his sister-in-law, Goldie Watts

HALL,  GRANVILLE --With much sadness and by the request of his children, I undertake to write an obituary of my brother, Granville Hall. Granville was born May 28, 1900 to Marion Holbrook and Sarah Eveline Hall. Both preceded him in death. In about 1921 Granville met and married Ritter Quillen and to this union were born ten: Beatrice, M.C., Lou, Merv, C.B., Eurette, Ishmal, Ethyl, McKinley, Tillsman. Granville was preceded in death by two sons, M.C. and Tillsman, and by his wife who died in March, 1963. One sister also preceded him in death, and one died August, 1982. On July l3, 1963 Granville, who was a great believer in the Old Regular Baptist Church, joined the Rebecca Church at Hall, Kentucky, and was baptized. He loved to go to church and filled his seat as long as he was able. Granville had been sick for a while and began to get worse the last weeks in July. On July 31, 1980 God called him to take his place in heaven and he answered. Granville is survived by one brother and four sisters, eight children and thirty-seven grandchildren. Granville is loved and missed by all, who knew him.
Written by his brother, Merdie Hall, and Granville's children

HENSLEY,  WILLIE EDWARD --It is with much sadness that I take pen in hand to try and write a brief obituary of a dear, deceased friend, and to my belief, a brother in Christ. Willie Edward Hensley was born February 24, 1919 to Marion Ervin and Fanny Francis, who have preceded him in death. In the year 1939 he was joined in matrimony to Dana Caudill Hensley. To this union were born three sons and one daughter. The sons are Clayton Morris of Louisville, Rayburn of Shepherdsville, Carl Edward, who preceded Willie in death; the daughter is Polly Eldridge of Mt. Washington, Ky. He leaves to mourn their loss a brother, Hansford, of Virginia; sisters Ada Caudill of Jeremiah, Ky., Oma Tussing of Virginia, Vonda Sturgill of Virginia, twelve grandchildren, three great-grandchildren. A sister, Letha Tussing, a half-brother, Ross Sturgill, one grandchild and one great-grandchild preceded him in death. I knew Willie for many years, and in those years I came to love and respect him deeply. He was an honest, hard-working man, a devoted husband and father. Having migrated to Kentucky and living in the eastern mountains for many years, he and Dana moved to the Louisville area to be near their children. He had a love for the mountains and the people there which never dimmed, and he came back to visit as often as health permitted. He has now returned for the final time to rest on yonder hillside to await the coming of our Lord and Master. I believe dear Willie will meet Him in peace, for he told me of talking with Him in a vision by a crystal river that had no beginning and no ending. He never joined a church, but I am as satisfied as he seemed to be that he had made peace with God. So companion, sons and daughter, family and friends, press on and trust in the God of Heaven that Willie trusted in, and by his mercies we can meet again where there will be no death or sorrow, no crippled legs and shots in the arm each day. No more coal mines and black lung to cause us to smother. So long, dear Willie, until we meet again.
Written by one who will miss him so much, Squire H. Watts

ISON,  STACY --With much sadness we will try, by the help of God, to write a short sketch of a dear sister, Stacy Ison. She was born April 28, 1912 into the home of Wesley and Sarah Sturgel-Ison. She was born with a birth defect. Her body grew into womanhood, but her mind stayed as a child. She never knew what life was all about. She knew no wrong and she never committed any sin. She loved nice things in life. On December 31, 1980, about the hour of 8:00 in the morning, God saw fit to call her home. She departed in ease, making her stay on earth 68 years, 7 months and 3 days. She leaves to mourn her passing three sisters - Della of Austin, Indiana, Sylvia of Lexington, Indiana and Okra Maggard of London, Kentucky; and one brother, Wurlury Ison of Cumberland, Kentucky. She was born and raised in Letcher County, Kentucky. In 1955 she came to Indiana and made her home with her older sister and brother-in-law for about twelve years. She spent the remainder of her life in the nursing home in Scottsburg, Indiana.
She will be sadly missed by her family and friends.
Written by her sister and brother-in-law, Sylvia and Venon Miller

MULLINS,  CLAUDIE --With a broken heart I try to write the obituary of my devoted wife, Claudie Mullins. Claudie was the daughter of Watson and Millie Everage. She was born February 17, 1915 and deceased January 10, 1982 at the age of 66 years, 10 months and 23 days. Early in life she married Valentine Mullins. Unto this union were born five children, Thomas, Cecil, Guy, Elmer and Lula. Three preceded her in death. She was such a good and devoted mother. Her life centered around her family and husband. Her hard work and strife only made her a more determined mother. Her remaining children, Elmer and Lula, were always at her bedside trying to help with her pain and suffering. Surely no two children honored their father and mother more than they did. She is survived by two grandchildren, Sandra and Billy Thomas, three brothers, Estill Everage of Amburgey, Ky.; Everett Everage of Louisville., Ky.; Berlin Everage of Brownstone, Indiana; three sisters, Unave Amburgey, of Mallie, Ky.; Della Everage of Amburgey, Ky.; and Juanita Mullins of Louisville, Ky. Her father, Watson, preceded her in death, but left behind is a dear and loving mother, Millie. May the Lord always comfort Millie for her devotion to Claudie. Claudie was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church. She let her light shine that all her friends could see that only such love could come from knowing the Lord. Her faithfulness to the Lord made her illness seem almost a blessing. She was bedfast for almost two years, but not once did she ask, "Why?" She bore her suffering with a smile. As I look back over those last two years, I can only thank God that she did not have to bear the cross alone. My prayer is that all her family and friends saw in Claudie what I did, and that they'll always serve the Lord. My life is almost ended and certainly a part of me left when Claudie died, but I know God made a promise that he'd prepare a place for us. I'm looking for the day I can go home to meet my Savior and I know the next face I see will be that of Claudie. God bless you all. Pray for me and my son, Elmer, and daughter, Lula.
Written by her husband, who misses her so much, but a husband that had many years of happiness.
Valentine Mullins, Amburgey, Ky.

OWENS,  BAZLE --Bazle Owens was born March 12, 1918, at Knott County, Kentucky. He died December 16, 1981, at the age of sixty- three. He was the son of Alva Owens and Matilda Owens. He is survived by his wife, Edna L. Owens, five children and eight grandchildren. The children are: Helen Watson, Lexington, Ky.; Dortha Slone, Hindman, Ky.; Joesphine Stull, Lexington, Ky.; Dannie Ray Owens, Talcum, Ky.; Carolyn Kennedy, Illinois. Bazle never joined any church. However, he believed in the old-fashioned Old Regular Baptist way. He attended the New Bethlehem Church regularly in his last years. There, I believe with all my heart, he made peace with God. I have often heard him say how pleased he would be to know that his children had made peace with God. I hope that if they haven't done so, they will before it is too late. I hope they meet their dad in heaven.
Written by a son-in-law, Carl Slone

PIGMAN,  CHARLES R. --When I am through with this old clay house of mine
When no more guide lights through the windows shine
Just box it up and lay it away with the other clay houses of yesterday,
And with it my friends just try if you can to bury the wrongs since
first I began to live in this house.
To bury them deep and forget I want to feel free and out of debt
When I meet the grand architect Supreme face to face I want to be free and clean.
I know my dear friends it is too late to mend a bad built house when you come to the end
But to you who are building and still on the line
Make your alterations while yet there is time.
You ask what material is best to select
T'was told long ago by the grand architect.
A new commandment I give unto you,
That you love one another as I have loved you.
So the very best material to send up above is the clear, straight timber of brotherly love.

Charles R. Pigman, son of Garland Pigman and Dessie Seales Pigman, was born November 30, 1933 at Bath, Kentucky on Wolf Pen Creek. Here in Knott County he grew to manhood and went to school. He also attended Eastern Kentucky University for his college work and he also spent some time serving his country. Brother Charles has always been a hard-working man. Early in life he met and married Anna Couch and to this union were born Patty Portwood, Debbie Parker, Mike, Doug and Tanya Pigman, whom he loved very much. This marriage ended in a legal separation that disturbed Charles greatly and caused him much grief and anguish. About this time Charles realized that life was not a full life, the welfare of his soul had been neglected, so he began to set his house in order. After much pleading and begging for mercy, Brother Charles felt the pardoning power of God's dear Son, and upon the profession of his faith in God, he offered his hand to become a member of the Little Dove Church on April 8, 1979 and was baptized May 13, 1979. His seat he filled with much humbleness and love toward all mankind until the end. Later he met and was married to Elvie Combs on July 26, 1980, who gave Charles five step-children. They are: Donald Combs, Larry Dean Combs, Barbara Jean Hodges, Billy Rebel Combs and Brenda Faye Prater, who loved Charles as if he were their own father.
Then to those who loved him most, listen to the words of the poet:
If I should be the first to go and you remain awhile
Before you too must walk alone down life's last lonely mile,
I would not have you weep nor grieve for happiness that's flown.
Let tears bedim that misty vale down which my feet have gone.
If I should be the first to go beyond life's mystic vale,
Just think of me as one who goes to blaze a brighter trail
Across that unknown wilderness that on some future day,
Your feet may find a smoother path along the self same way.
If I should be the first to go, I shall walk slowly Dear,
For some day you will follow me across death's dark frontier.
I'll mark each turn along the road that you may walk the same,
I'll often pause to hear your voice if you should call my name.
If I should be the first to go beyond all earthly care,
I'll try to linger at the gate until you enter there.
Then hand in hand with all life's battles fought and won
Together we shall find what lies beyond the setting Sun.

The Pale Horse and his rider claimed him July 29, 1982 leaving to mourn his passing: his mother, Dessie P. Amburgey; wife, Elvie Pigman; sons - Mike and Doug; stepsons - Donald Ray Combs, Larry Combs, Billy Combs; daughters - Patty Portwood, Debbie Parker, Tanya Pigman; step-daughters - Barbara Hodges and Brenda Prater; brother - Olis Pigman; sister - Wanda Caudill; three grandchildren, one step-granddaughter and a host of aunts, uncles and other relatives.

RITCHIE,  RUBY PRATER --I feel very sad and lonely as I write about the best and sweetest mother anyone will ever have. Ruby Prater Ritchie was born December 27, 1919 and departed this life April 4, 1981, her age being 61 years, 3 months and 7 days. She married Estile Ritchie, a boy she was raised up with in their early life. Unto their union were born ten children. One son, Eugene Ritchie, preceded her in death. He had a fatal heart attack the last of August, 1980. Our Mom was never well after that. Her children left behind are Aaron Ritchie, Rome City, Indiana, Emma Lou Stidham, Wolcottville, Indiana, Glenna Johnston, Fort Wayne, Indiana, Junior Lee Ritchie and Billy Joe Ritchie, Rome City, Indiana, Jimmy Ritchie, Lagrange, Indiana, Brend Ritchie, Rome City, Indiana, Beverly Ann Dunlap, Le-gonrie, Indiana, and Floyd Ritchie, Emmalena, Kentucky. Also left is her husband, Estile of Rome City, Indiana. My heart will always ache when I think that I'll never again see her or hear her sweet voice again. I know all the other children feel the same. She leaves behind her husband, nine children, three brothers, three sisters, eighteen grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends to weep for their loss. Mom was always a worrier. She always wanted to know where her children were at all times, she worried too much over them. Mom didn't belong to any church, but she always wanted to go to the Old Regular Baptist. Two weeks before she died she called for all her children to come to the hospital room and told them not to worry over her, that she was all right. She sent word for all her brothers and sisters to be good. I feel she is all right because she suffered so much.
We, her children, want to thank Junior Mosley and Ellis Amburgy for going to Kentucky with us; they are always invited to take a part in her memorial on Big Branch of Ball at the Patrick Cemetery.

Memories are treasures that no one can steal
Death is a heartache that no one can heal
Tears may dry and fade away
But in our heart Mom, you will always stay.
The Golden Gate stood open
God saw you needed rest
His garden must be beautiful
For He always picks the best.
Written by Myrtle Ritchie for the family of Ruby Ritchie

SEXTON, LIZZIE R. --By the request of the family I will try to write a short obituary of Lizzie R. Sexton. She was the daughter of Polly and Granville Riddle. She was born July 30, 1902 and departed this life April 21, 1982, making her stay here 79 years and 3 months and 21 days. In the year of 1923 she was united in marriage to Howard Sexton, and to this union were born 9 children, 5 boys and 3 girls. One preceded her in death, Rence Sexton of Indiana, leaving Doris Brown, Margaret Combs, both of Indiana, and Rosetta Dumm of Illinois. The boys are Roy, of Indiana, James and Charles of Ohio, and Coleman of Hallie and Homer of Slemp. Lizzie was a member of Cedar Grove Church for 27 years. She left good news for her family before she passed away. She said she had made peace with the good Lord and she was ready to go when He called for her. We now believe she has left all sorrow behind and entered in a world of peace. She leaves her children, two sisters, twenty-two grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her leaving.
Written by: grandson, Carl Brown and daughter, Doris Brown

SHEPHERD,  LUSETTA CAUDILL --Lusetta Caudill Shepherd was born February 19, 1901 and died July 10, 1982. Services for Lusetta Shepherd were held at Charlestown on Sunday, July 11, 1982, at 8:00 p.m. with Brother Clyde Shepherd officiating. Interment followed at Edlie Cornett Cemetery, Cornettsville, Kentucky. Grayson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

SLONE,  VERLIN --Verlin Slone was born on January 29, 1916 at Branhams Creek, being the son of the late Farris and Mary Liz Reynolds. In early life he met and was married to Azana Short, who preceded him in death in 1979. Unto this union were born eleven children. Two of them - Jackie and Mary Kathryn preceded them in death. Left to mourn the passing are six sons: John C., Tommy Ray, Talmadge, Arnold, Bordes and Ruby; three daughters: Minnie Perkins, Phyllis Knox and Lydia K. Mullins; three brothers: Olice, Johnny and Ivan; eight sisters: Opal, Lola, Dallas, Mildred Jean, Joann, Delna, Velma and Verdie Inis; 26 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Two brothers, Stanford and Carnell, and one sister, Goldia Cornett, preceded him in death. He was a member of the Reynolds Fork Old Regular Baptist Church for many years.
Lewis F. Craft

STAMPER, VERTA B. --With precious memories we will try to write the obituary of our dear mother, Verta Stamper. She was born January 7, 1902, and passed away September 26, 1981, making her stay here on earth 79 years, 8 months and 19 days. She was the daughter of Wiley B. Smith and Nancy Pigman Smith. She was married to Hiram H. Stamper and to this union were born three daughters. Her mother and father, husband, and six brothers and sisters preceded her in death. Survivors are: three daughters - Jewell Combs, Fairborn, Ohio; Jeanette Stamper, Sassafras, Kentucky; Nancy Amburgey, Medway, Ohio; three brothers - Oliver Smith, John Smith, Glen Smith; two sisters - Ola Stamper, Dale Combs; three grandchildren - Judy, Kathy and Lisa; one great-grandchild, Charles Frederick, and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Verta's health had been failing her for about eighteen months. She bore her sickness with much patience and hardly ever a complaint. On one of her visits to the hospital she was clearly heard saying that she loved everyone. She believed in God and His son, Jesus Christ. Whenever she could, she would persuade people to get right with God while they had time and chance. She belonged to the Little Dove Church of Old Regular Baptist. She loved to go to church and she loved her brothers and sisters and friends of the old church. She will be missed by us all and we believe she has paid her final debt and is at rest with the Lamb of God. Written by the family

WILLIAMS,  ADRION --It is with the saddest of feelings that I will try to write the obituary of my Daddy, Adrion Williams. He was born October 1, 1913 and met his death on November 29, 1981. He was the son of Sylvania and Harrison Williams. He married Sintha Terry Williams on April 18, 1938. They were married 43 years before he met his death. To this union were born eight children, five girls and two boys. Left to mourn him are his wife, Sintha Williams, and all eight of the children. He also has two brothers and two sisters, 24 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. A host of relatives and friends are also left to mourn. He was loved by all who knew him. He didn't belong to any church, but we feel that our loss is heaven's gain. He was a believer in the Old Regular Baptist faith and order. He attended church as often as he could and he loved for the brothers and sisters to come to his home and have meeting for him. I hope and pray he is in the hands of God. I hope and pray that someday I will see my daddy in heaven. I want to say to his children, if you want to see Daddy again, you must repent of your sins.
Written by his brother and daughter, Silas Williams and Mixine Ritchie

LOVING MEMORIES

Your gentle face and pleasant smile
With sadness we recall.
You had a kind word for each
And died beloved by all.
A voice is mute and stilled the heart
That loved us well and true,
Oh bitter was the trial to part
From one as good as you.
You are not forgotten, loved one,
Nor will you ever be
As long as life and memories last,
We will remember thee.
We miss you now, our hearts are sore
As time goes by, we'll miss you more.
Your loving smiles, your gentle face,
No one can ever fill your vacant place

INDIAN BOTTOM ASSOCIATION
OLD REGULAR BAPTIST
OBITUARIES 1982
Held with
Mallet Fork Church
Pine Top, Kentucky
September 3,4, and 5, 1982