AMBURGEY, ALBERT -MARCH 9, 1910 - NOVEMBER 11, 1987-It is with much love and sadness that we try to write an obituary of our beloved father, Albert Amburgey. Albert was born March 9, 1910 to William and Sally Amburgey, who preceded him in death. Albert met and married Sally Slone May 12, 1935, and unto this union were born ten children, five boys. Eston Amburgey of Pinetop, Ky., Agnel Amburgey of Pinetop, Ky., Kermit Amburgey of Flint, Mi., Ballard Amburgey of Des Plains, Ill, James Arlie Amburgey of Chicago, Ill; and five girls: Anna Lee Honeycutt of Pinetop, Ky., Joyce King of Kite, Ky., Nannie Centers of Cromwell, Ind., Mary Ellen Campbell of Algonquin, Ill. and Norene Hall of Pinetop, Ky.; twenty-six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, and a host of family and friends. We would like to express our deepest appreciation to Eston and Norene Amburgey for the love and care they gave Albert during his long fight with cancer. Thank God for giving them the strength to bear up. We thank God for that little band of Angels that came about 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and carried his soul to the paradise of God, where there will be no more heartaches or pain. I will say in closing this obituary that if you want to go where Albert is, you will have to seek the same God that he sought.
Written by Elder Hauley King

AMBURGEY, MONROE -It is with great sadness that we try to write the obituary of our brother in the Lord, Monroe Amburgey. Monroe was born August 8, 1899 to Jasper Amburgey and Tina Madden Amburgey. Brother Monroe passed from this life January 29, 1988. Monroe met and married Francis Combs Amburgey December 31, 1930. To this union were born seven children, six boys and one girl: Miriam Berta Seals of Litt Carr, Ky., Stanley Amburgey of Burgey's Creek, Ky., Don Amburgey of Jenkins, Ky., Eugene Amburgey of Burgey's Creek, Ky., J. C. Amburgey of Covington, Ky., Lausie Amburgey of Chicago, Ill., and Earl Amburgey of Georgetown, Ky. Also left to mourn his passing are seventeen grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and a host of friends and relatives. Brother Monroe was preceded in death by his wife, father, mother, four sisters and one brother. Brother Monroe worked hard all of his life to raise his family at a variety of skills from a carpenter to a stone mason. He was a supervisor of building Pioneer Village at Red Fox, Kentucky. He also built many caskets at no charge for his neighbors, friends and relatives. Early in life Brother Monroe saw the need of a Savior. He told many friends that he had made peace with God. We believe Brother Monroe is resting in heaven today from his labor. Brother Monroe piled up many stones along the way for his children to follow. Brother Monroe was a man of great patience, kindness, and had a great love for his family and friends. He taught his family to trust in God. To the family we may add, this is not the last of Brother Monroe. Jesus said, "As I live, ye shall live also." We believe Brother Monroe and Sister Francis are finally together in Heaven. They left a light hanging in the window for their children to follow. If you want to see Dad and Mom again, get to know and obey the same Jesus they knew.
Written by his daughter, Sister Berta Seals, and her husband, Brother Ralph, and a brother in the Lord, Dwight Amburgey

ASHLEY, DORA -Dora Ashley was born January 18, 1907 and the Lord called her home August 6, 1988, making her stay here with us 81 years, six months and nineteen days. She was the daughter of Jasper and Elizabeth Jent Mullins. Early in life she met and married Moses Ashley, and to this union were born fifteen children, seven of whom preceded her in death. She leaves to mourn her husband, Moses Ashley; three sons: Troy, Carlos and Kermit; five daughters: Emma Slone, Mary Everage, Virginia Jacobs, Opal Caudill and Billie Jean Barlow. She has 67 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren. She also leaves one brother, Troy Mullins. Some years ago Sister Dora became dissatisfied with her life; she felt something was missing, so she began to call on the Lord for help. She became such an humble person the Lord forgave her of her many sins. She told us so often about what the Lord had done for her. So she finally came and gave her hand to the church and was baptized in September 1986. She was a faithful member and seemed so happy. I'm sure that she is now resting around the alter of God, waiting for her loved ones to come to be with her. So children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, if you want to see her again, you will have to go to the same God she went to. And to Brother Troy, she is only sleeping in the arms of Jesus.
Written by an unworthy brother in the Lord, Ollie Mullins

ASHLEY, FRANKLIN AND SUSIE -With a sad heart, we will try to write an obituary of our daddy, Franklin Ashley. He was born April 23, 1897 and passed from this life December 9, 1986, making his stay here on earth 89 years, seven months and nine days. He was the son of John and Nancy Ashley. Later in life, he met and married Susie Mullins Ashley on June 28, 1919. With this union, they were blessed with four children, two girls and two boys. Their names are Frances Hudson, Hazel Hudson, Luther Ashley, all living at Amburgey, Kentucky, and Virgil Ashley of Louisville, Kentucky. His mother, father, three brothers and two sisters preceded him in death. He leaves his four children, eight grandchildren, one brother and two sisters to mourn their loss. His brother's name is Leonard Ashley and his sisters' names are: Luna Mullins and Stella Cornett. He has gone where Mommy is at rest, around the throne of God. We can meet them some day, where we won't have to part anymore.
Written by his children
Mom was born August 30, 1989 to Riley and Dicie Mullins. She departed from this life October 31, 1959 at her home. Many of her family are gone since her passing. She has four children, eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren to survive her. She was a kind, loving mother and a good friend to the community. She was a member of the Little Bethlehem Church and was a faithful member until her passing. She loved to cook and always invited everyone at church to go eat with her. We still miss, her, though the pain has lessened. She will always be in our memories.
The children

BREWER, JIM -Brother Jim Brewer was born February 16, 1909 and deceased this life December 10, 1986. He married Cindy Williams, and God gave this union eleven children, three of whom preceded him in death. They also raised a grandson, making nine in all. Brother Jim was a kind, gentle-spoken man, always eager to help the churches. He bought two bath outfits for New Bethlehem before he joined the church. He joined the Clear Fork Old Regular Baptist Church, and was a faithful member until death. He attended church regularly when he was able. He was a faithful member until death. When he was near death, he always smiled and kissed your hand. He couldn't talk. Children, if you want to be with your Dad, repent of your sins and live a life for Christ.
Written by Elder Morris Shepherd

BROWN, MASSIE DIXON BACK -"And what is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered? Only when you drink from the river of silence shal1 you indeed sing." --Kahlil Gibran

Maggie Dixon Back Brown, the daughter of William Van and Dicy Combs Dixon, was born November 12 1891, at Blackey, Kentucky. In 19l1, she married Joseph Back who, as well as four of their thirteen children, preceded her in death. The nine surviving children are: Agnan Back, Irene Brown, Ray Back, Artie Campbell and Joann Walters, all of Blackey, Reedus Back of Morehead, Ky., James Back of Alexandria, Ky., Minerva Craft of Florence, Ky., and John Back of Lexington, Ky. In 1939 she married Henry Brown, who also preceded her in death. She loved life and God who gave life. She did not complain when adverse circumstances came into her life. She tried ever diligently to pattern her life and teach her children from the teachings of Jesus. In 1956, she declared before the world that Jesus was her Savior and became a member of the Mount Olivet Old Regular Baptist Church at Blackey; a continuing source of comfort, gratitude and pride for her throughout her remaining years. On the evening of March 22, 1988, as the twilight waned, she went peacefully home to her reward. We believe that at her Savior's beckoning, her spirit rose, expanded and sought God unencumbered, that she drank from the River of Silence; and began, indeed, to sing with the Angels as she passed through the portals of that glorious land and entered her eternal haven of rest -- free at last from the restless tides of earth. We know that she would have us remember that God "Would not have us be ignorant concerning them which are asleep, that we sorrow not, even as others which have no hope." -- I Thess., IV:13. And so we shall take courage and strength and travel forward refreshing ourselves with living memories of a dear and precious mother whom God allowed to be ours, and allowed us to keep for so many wonderful years. We believe that her life was not only a light to us, her children, but to all who knew her.
The family

CORNETT, EARLIS -Earlis Cornett was born into the home of Kenton and Judy Roark Cornett at Gordon, Kentucky January 13, 1917. He passed from this life April 23, 1988, making his earthly pilgrimage 71 years, three months and ten days. On December 23, 1939, Earlis was united in marriage to Mable Whitaker and this union was blessed with four girls, two of whom preceded him in death; Judith Ann Cornett and Sue Carolyn Cornett. Left to mourn his passing are his wife, Mable W. Cornett of Roxanna, Ky.; two daughters, Earlene Williams of Whitesburg and Glenna Harris of Jeremiah; three grandchildren: Wendy Williams of Whitesburg, Nicole Williams of Whitesburg and Cory M. Harris of Jeremiah; three brothers: Otis Cornett of Bellview, Kermit Cornett and Eugene Cornett, both of Coldsprings; two sisters, Delma Cornett of Hallie and Jaunita Smith of Coldsprings. Earlis loved his family dearly and provided well for them. He loved his friends, which were, many, and his neighbors, but he especially loved little children. He kept a supply of goodies, such as children love, to treat them when they came to visit with Earlis and Mable. On the evening of December 7, 1986 Earlis suffered a heart attack and was rushed to the hospital at Whitesburg and then transferred to St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington where he underwent heart surgery. When he was able to sit up and thought he would soon be going home, he told his family the Lord had saved him and asked Elder I. D. Back to baptize him when he was able to come home. His family was blessed to be able to rejoice with him in his victory over sin. Earlis had grown to love the Tolson Creek Church and often spoke favorable of the ministers and their sermons. He was able to come home, but never able to leave his bed, go back to church and know the joy of going to the water and being baptized. His family loved him dearly and took special care of him; especially his wife, Mable, who stayed by his bed day and night. Earlis was loved deeply by friends and family and will be missed very much, but we believe that our loss is heaven's gain.
Elder Otis Cornett  August 12, 1988

DAY,  OWEN -Our hearts are sad, our home is lonely, because one that was so dear to us has gone to join the Angel's Band. Owen Day entered eternal life on Sunday, January 17, 1988, at the Whitesburg Appalachian Regional Hospital. He was the son of Harvey and Stella Day of Kings Creek, Kentucky. He was born September 28, 1912, being 75 years, three months and nineteen days of age at the time of his passing. Early in life, he met and married the girl he loved, Lovel Ison of Oskaloosa, Kentucky. They lived a happy, devoted life together for nearly fifty-one years. To this union were born two children, one daughter, Nina D. Stamper, and one son, Norman Gale Day. He retired from coal mining after working for over 35 years. His death was attributed to the dreadful black lung disease from which he suffered for several years. On May 23, 1982, Owen and his wife, Lovel, were baptized into the Tolson Creek Old Regular Baptist Church. He was later ordained as deacon of the Tolson Creek Baptist Church. After he became a member of the church, he began working for the Lord. He enjoyed working to upgrade the church building and spent many hours there doing little jobs that he enjoyed doing in and around the church house, a place he loved. He enjoyed his salvation so much, and was a faithful member, filling his seat as long as he was able. The last few weeks he lived, he smothered so badly, but in the end he was still praising the Lord. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Lovel Day; one daughter, Nina D. Stamper of West Chester, Ohio, one son, Norman Gale Day of Columbus, Indiana; son-in-law, Donald R. Stamper; and daughter-in-law, Linda Day. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Jeffrey R. Stamper, Kimberly Adleta, Randall Owen Day and Nicole Day; two great-grandchildren, Brittney Adleta and Heather Stamper. In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by one brother, James Day of Ohio; three sisters: Nora Raleigh and Dalna Ingram of Kings Creek, Ky. and Launa Raleigh of Ohio, along with a host of other relatives and friends. He was a good Christian man, a wonderful husband, and caring father. He was so proud of his family. Some of his happiest moments were the times he spent with his children and grandchildren. He was a man with great patience and always had kindness and love for everyone. We feel that our loss is heaven's gain. We hope to meet him in that Eternal Home. Written by his family

DEATON, MAUDIE LEE-With a very sad heart we will try to write the obituary of our dear friend and sister in Christ, Maudie Lee Deaton. She was born January 18, 1928 at Carbon Glow, Kentucky and entered eternal life July 2, 1988 at her residence, making her stay on earth 60 years, five months and thirteen days. Maudie was the daughter of the late Harm and Sarah Elizabeth Coots Melton. On April 1, 1947, she was married to Lane Deaton Jr., and to this union were born three boys, James, who preceded her in death, Bill Deaton of Letcher, Ky., and Harmie L. Deaton of Beaver, Alaska. Maudie is also survived by one brother, Henry Melton of Redfox, Ky.; three sisters: Ruby Caudill of Isom, Ky., Oma Mullins of Wayland, Ky., and Bertha Conley of Paintsville, Ky.; eleven grandchildren and one great- grandchild. Sis. Maudie joined the Little Bull Creek Church in November, 1982 and she had great faith in the Lord. We feel our loss is heaven's gain. Written by her husband and Mr. & Mrs. Virgil Combs

DUFF, MALLIE -It is with many tears and a sad and broken heart that we try to write the obituary of our loving mother and wife. Mallie Neace Duff was born into the home of James B. Neace and Mary Colley Neace on the twenty-fifth day of February, 1923 and God called her home on the first day of September, 1987, making her stay here on earth 64 years, six months and six days. Mom was married to our father, Irvin Duff, on the third day of October, 1942. This gave them forty-five wonderful years together, and for this time our father is grateful. To this union were born ten children.: William Duff of Indianapolis, Indiana, Hiram Duff of Westland, Mich., Dennis Duff of Ypsilanti, Mich., Mary Pilkin of Leatherwood, Ky., Margie Bailey of Cumberland, Ky., Beecher Duff of Cornettsville, Ky., Pauline Burke of Viper, Ky., Willie Duff of Slemp, Ky., Charles Duff of Glomar, Ky. and Wanda Sue Duff, still at home. Also surviving are three sisters: Bessie Jones of Grapevine, Ky., Katie Fugate of Combs, Ky., Omedia Fugate of Tennessee. There were eighteen grandchildren, one of whom preceded Mom in death; Hiram Matthew Duff died the twenty-fifth day of May, 1988. Other family members also preceded her in death. Mom was a member of the Combs Bend Old Regular Baptist Church, but went to church at Poor Fork and Hurricane Gap for the last few years of her life. Mom loved to go to church. I remember after Mom got real sick, we would ask her if she felt like going to church. She would say she was going to try. For Mom to have been so sick, she had a lot of willpower. We know in our hearts that God had to have given her strength to keep going. We all love Mom so much, she was always there for each and every one of us when we needed her. We miss her terribly. My heart aches for her every day, as I am sure my brothers and sisters feel the same way. Our father loves and misses Mom dearly. He talks and cries about her all of the time. He says he is just waiting for the day he can be with Mom again. Dad still has his children, and we still have him, but we know that no one can ever take the place of our mom. I know Mom would be so proud of Margie for joining church at Hurricane Gap May 22 of this year. Mom was in so much pain the last few days of her life, and it was so hard to see her suffer and not be able to do anything to help ease the pain. She kept saying, "Lord, take me home." Mom is not in any more pain, because she is gone to be with the Lord. And if we ever want to see our mother again, we will have to live a good life like Mom did. No matter how much we loved her, we had to give her up.
Written by Wanda Duff and Margie Bailey on behalf of the family

There is a word called Mother
That's most beautiful to hear
She is the living symbol
Of all that I hold dear
She has the highest standards
Of anyone I know, and that is just
One reason why I do love her so.
Of all the things she meant to me
I think the first must be of how she
Worked and sweated to raise her family
She always tried to teach me the truth
Of right and wrong and the wisdom of
Her teachings, I'll remember my whole
Life long. But the best gift she gave
Me was the wonder of her love. Some
Day she'll abide in a home in heaven above.

FIELDS,  HAROLD -Harold Fields was born in Letcher County September 6, 1938 and passed from this life July 12, 1988 at the Whitesburg Appalachian Regional Hospital at the age of 49 years, ten months and six days. Harold was the victim of brain cancer and had suffered tremendous pain and became an invalid in the last three or four months of his illness. However, Harold endured his sickness with patience and tried very hard to do for himself until he reached the point where he could no longer do for himself. Even then he was very considerate of his family and worried that he may ask too much of them. Left to mourn his departure is his wife, Brenda Sue Roark Fields; three daughters: Delena Kaye Gilbert, Melissa Ann Fields, Mary Louise Fields; and a grandson, Jonathan Wayne Gilbert. Also surviving are four sisters and four brothers. Preceding him in death were his father and mother, Chester and Izetta Adams Fields. Harold was a veteran of the U. S. Army and was employed by the Southeast Coal Company at the time of his diagnosis. After being diagnosed, Harold realized the seriousness of his condition, not only physically, but spiritually as well. It was then that he repented of his sins and was baptized into the Defeated Creek Old Regular Baptist Church in July of 1988. The people who knew Harold, knew him for his willingness to help others and his generosity. However, after his conversion, we could also see a significant difference in Harold, part of the difference being he was not ashamed to praise the Lord, nor did he fail to thank Him daily for his blessings. The girls and I miss Harold immeasurably, but we believe that he is now resting peacefully under the alter of God. Our hearts ache daily; however, having him to express and share with us his strong faith in God, and watching his condition worsen each day, makes having to give him up somewhat easier to accept. Pictured with Harold in the photograph is his grandson, Jonathan, who was the apple of Harold's eye.
Submitted by wife, Brenda, and daughters, Melissa and Mary

FIELDS, JASPER -Jasper Fields was born on February 22, 1918, and entered into eternal life on June 14, 1988 after being in the Veterans Administration Hospital in Lexington for almost four months. He had a hard time and was very sick, but we believe during that time that he got forgiveness for his sins, because he told his children that he was right with God. Jasper was the son of Willie and Susan Maggard Fields, who preceded him in death. On December 7, 1943 he married Mary Fields and to this union were born four children; one infant son preceded him in death. Surviving are a second son, Archie Ray Fields of Cowan, and two daughters, Christine Fields of Greensburg, Ind., and Kathy Diane Fields Wolf of Cowan. Also surviving him are eight grandchildren, one great-grandson, and two sons-in-law. Many friends and relatives will mourn his passing. Although Jasper never joined a church, he always liked to go to the Cowan Old Regular Baptist Church with Mary. Jasper never met a stranger, and was always friendly with everyone he met. We will all miss him but we hope to meet him again in heaven.
Written by his niece, Barbara Boggs

FRAZIER, LILLIAN MAE -Lillian Mae Frazier, born July 17, 1928, entered eternal life on May 13, 1988, being 59 years, nine months and twenty-six days old at the time of her passing. Lillian is survived by her husband, Ralph E. Frazier; two sons, Fred Frazier and Ralph E. Frazier Jr.; five daughters: Joyce Croucher, Lois Bradley, Linda Murphree, Dana Board and Donna Frazier; six grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends who mourn her passing. Lillian was a member of the Big Cowan Regular Baptist Church. We love and miss you so very much Mother. We hope we can follow your example and all be united again forever in heaven. All of us know that our loss is heaven's gain.
Written by a loving husband and children

HALCOMB, CALLIE -Callie Halcomb was born January 16, 1904. She was the daughter of the late Joe and Sue Fields Roark. She was the wife of the late Willie Halcomb, who preceded her in death on February 28, 1967. One son, Henry Halcomb, and one daughter, Rudell Howard, also preceded her in death. Callie entered eternal life on June 8, 1988 at Whitesburg Regional Hospital, making her stay on earth 84 years, four months and twenty-two days at the time of her passing. She was a member of the Defeated Creek Old Regular Baptist Church. Surviving her is one son, Bob Halcornb, and three daughters. Luvena Halcornb, Marlene Halcornb, all of Linefork, and Janice Rowe of Madison, Indiana; twenty-two grandchildren, thirty-six great-grandchildren and ten great-great-grandchildren. A great host of friends and relatives are also left to mourn her passing. Callie was ill for many long years and was confined to her home, unable to attend her church. She patiently waited for her Lord with joy and love toward everyone. I loved my mother very much and I really miss her. I hope that everyone that has a mother left here on earth will go see her and tell her how much they love her, because when they are gone, you can never tell them again.
Written by her daughter and grandson, Marlene Halcomb and Brother Don Halcomb

HALCOMB, LOLA -With the help of the Lord I will try to write the obituary of Lola Halcomb. Lola Halcomb entered eternal life on Sunday, October 25, 1987 at the Whitesburg Appalachian Regional Hospital. Lola was the daughter of the late Joseph and Didema Worax Halcomb. She was born on April 22, 1927, being 60 years, six months and three days of age at the time, of her passing. Surviving are three brothers: Oscar Halcomb of Whitesburg, Dennis L. Halcomb of Melvindale, Mich. and James Halcomb of Whitesburg; one half-brother, Junior Halcomb of Monroe Falls, Ohio; two half-sisters, Bobby Coates of Tiffin, Ohio and Josephine Bell of Tiffin, Ohio, along with a host of other relatives and friends to mourn her passing. I visited Lola while she was in the hospital. She was very sick, but was rejoicing in the Lord. She told me God had forgiven her of her sins and she had a better home waiting on her. She loved the church, but never got able to come and join. I feel with all my heart she is sleeping in the arms of Jesus.
Written by Homer Smith by request of her brother, Oscar Halcomb

HALL, CORBET -With a sad heart and the help of the Lord I will try to write the obituary of my beloved husband, Elder Corbet Hall. Corbet was the son of the late Joe Hall and Martha Reynolds Hall. Corbet and I were married on February 8, 1947 and the Lord blessed our home with five daughters - Lovely Honeycutt of Hindman, Janice Conley of Mousie, Gladys Martin of Litt Carr, Mabeline Watson of Plymouth, Michigan, Mary Sue Collins of Hindman -- and five grandchildren. Corbet was a good husband and father. Corbet realized the need of the Savior and after much praying to the Good Lord and Savior he felt the Lord had saved his soul. Corbet joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on November 4, 1972. The Lord called him to the ministry, so on January 5, 1980 Happy Home Church ordained Corbet as a minister. Corbet loved everyone and went to church as long as he was able. He had been sick for several years with heart trouble, then on December 1, 1987 we found out that he had a brain tumor. On December 2, 1987 he had brain surgery in Lexington. Corbet had that dreaded disease, cancer, and he was never able to help himself after the surgery. He was in and out of the hospitals a lot, but I never left his side. Me and at least one of our girls were with him at all times. On March 21, 1988 at the hour of 7:45 a.m. at Hazard ARH, the Lord called Corbet home to live with Him. We all miss him. My home is so lonesome since he is gone, but I feel like our loss is Heaven's gain. Corbet has just gone away with a friend. I want to thank all our Brothers and Sisters in the Lord for their great love and kindness and especially their prayers during Corbet's sickness and death. Thank you again.
Written by wife and sister in hope, Helen Hall

INGRAM, HESTER ISON-Though her departure has made me sad, my heart is filled with love and joyous memories as I write the obituary of my beloved grandmother, for I know that she is resting with the Lord. Hester Ison Ingram was born in Letcher County on February 26, 1916, and passed from this life March 5, 1988 at her home in Linefork after a long illness. She was the daughter of the late Kelly and Sally Ison. She was also the loving wife of McCoy Ingram and mother of three sons, Billy Roger Ingram and Marvin Stanley Ingram, both of Linefork, Ky., and Tommy Nelson Ingram of Partridge, Ky. Other survivors include three brothers: Vernon Ison of Skyline, Ky.; Arnold Ison of Cumberland, Ky., and Aden Ison of Oak Ridge, Tenn.; and three grandchildren, Richard Allen, Tammy Sue Ingram and Marcella Celese Ingram. She was a life-long resident of Letcher County and employed by the Letcher County Board of Education for eight years. She was also a member of the Defeated Creek Old Regular Baptist Church. She was loved by all who knew her, and she will be greatly missed, but I am glad she finally has her rest without pain in the arms of the Lord.
Written by her loving granddaughter, Marcella Ingram

ISON,  HENRY A. -Henry A. Ison entered eternal life on Saturday, April 16, 1988 at his residence. Henry was the son of the late William "Bill" and Mary Adams Ison. He was born on January 1, 1906, being 82 years, three months and fifteen days of age at the time of his passing. Henry is survived by his wife of fifty-six years, Osa Frazier Ison; three sons: Armond Ison of Westport, Ind., Donald Oneil Ison of Columbus, Ind., and David Henry Ison of Freetown, Ind.; three daughters: Emellou Day of North Vernon, Ind., Annual Vone Halcomb of Nashville, Ind., and Mary Katherine Burnside of Freetown, Ind.; one half-brother, Charlie Halcomb of Delphia, Ky. Also surviving are fourteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, along with a host of other relatives and friends to mourn his passing. Henry was not a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church, but all of us closest to him knew how very much he always loved to go; and we feel very sure that he is at rest in God's care. Daddy had the contentment of knowing that all six of his children and some of his grandchildren had accepted Christ as their Savior, and we know that his hope would be that all would turn their hearts over to Christ.

Written by wife and children

ISON, MANUS -Manus was born the son of George B. Ison and Ardellia (Caudill) Ison March 18, 1912, at the residence on Linefork Creek, Skyline, Kentucky, Letcher County. He shared this home, through his growing years, with a large family of brothers and sisters. On April 19, 1936 he was married to Mary Watts, the daughter of Squire Watts and Celia (Caudill) Watts. Unto this union were born four daughters and three sons. Manus lived the greater part of his life on Linefork, working a variety of jobs while raising his family. He was a school teacher, insurance salesman, manager of several companies and in business for himself a couple of times. Whatever was required to support his family, Manus would be found doing it. No job was too meager or too great, when it came to caring for his family. A great turning point in Manus' life came to be when he became a soldier of God and joined the Christian Army of the Cedar Grove Old Regular Baptist Church, in the year of our Lord 1950, in the month of June. Four years later, on June 24, Manus was ordained as a minister. Clinging tightly to his Christian beliefs, Manus went on to become moderator of the Indian Bottom Association for several years, till failing health caused him to call for younger help. Thanks to God, the needed help was available. I've said a great deal about Manus and his service to God. The reason being, he spent the bigger part of his life serving our Heavenly Father. To say that Manus was a loving father, a devoted husband, and a devout Christian would be a great understatement, he was super in all of these areas. Ask his children, what kind of father he was. Ask Mary, his wife, what kind of husband he was. When you get to heaven, ask God what kind of Christian soldier he is. God will know, because if I know my father, that's where he is today.

His message to us today would be:
Don't mourn for me,
'Tis such a waste,
I'm waiting here at heaven's gate,
Tho' you can't see me you know I'm near
Just follow the Lord,
He'll bring you here.

By Manus Jr. and all the family, and sweet Mary, wife and mother

ISON, TINA -Tina Ison entered eternal life on Wednesday, January 20, 1988 at the Whitesburg Appalachian Regional Hospital. Tina was the daughter of the late Green and Sarah Elizabeth Caudill Blair. She was born on January 24, 1898, being 89 years, eleven months and twenty-six days of age at the time of her passing. Tina was the wife of the late Burnett lson. Tina was a member of the Blair Branch Regular Baptist Church. She was baptized April 18, 1982. Surviving are two sons, Verlin Ison of North Vernon, Ind., and Steve Ison of Mousie; five daughters: Mattie Frazier of Jeremiah, Minta Kiloski of White River Junction, Vt., Martha Taylor of Jeremiah, Mary Caudill of Brownstown, Ind. and Margie Caudill of Jeremiah; two sisters: Nora Caudill of Winchester and Allie Breeding of Isom; twenty-seven grandchildren and thirty-six great-grandchildren, along with a host of other relatives and friends to mourn her passing. Tina was preceded in death by five sons: Van, Danis, James, Denver and Clyde Ison.

JOHNSON, ELLIS -Ellis Johnson was born February 21, 1916 in Rowan County, Kentucky. He was the son of the late Tom Johnson and Rozennie Caudill Johnson. He was united in marriage to Anna Dean Waltz Johnson on July 10, 1947. They were blessed with 41 years of togetherness. Dean's love and devotion, to see him comforted and taken care of these last weeks, was a fine example of what a helpmate really means. He is survived by five brothers and sisters: Keenis Johnson, Morehead, Ky., Ivan Johnson, Flemingsburg, Ky., Vernon Johnson, Hillsboro, Ky., Willie Johnson, Hillsboro, Ky., Tommy Johnson, Gary, Ind., Eva Bowers, Sun City, Ca., Ethel Binion, Flemingsburg, Ky., Nellie Eldridge, Morehead, Ky., Oma Faye Vice, Cincinnati, Oh., Clarice Wiley, Anderson, Ind. Two brothers, Russell and Earl, preceded him in death. Ellis loved his fellowman, not in word only, but by deed and action that he exemplified each day. He was always there to lend a helping hand. He lived by the Golden Rule, "To do unto others as you would have them do unto you." He believed that scripture "That no greater love has no man than to lay down his life for a friend." He portrayed this reality during World War II when he received the Purple Heart and five bronze stars for action in the Pacific theatre of war. But for men like this we would not have freedoms which we cherish today. Ellis never asked for anything in return for these great traits of character. Ellis demonstrated his love for children and young people. There was one special young person who visited him daily. They had been friends for a number of years. Regina called him "Pap," and he loved her dearly. Probably the happiest times of his life were those he spent here at the Little Mary Church. He often spoke of your love toward one another. Although he was not a member here, that was his greatest desire after he found that peace that passeth all understanding. I am sure he would say to those of us here today, "If you haven't already done so, make that good choice today." Ellis will be greatly missed by a host of friends and relatives, but his life and his love toward us all will live on in our memories.

JONES, ORVILLE -As we are sitting her tonight with a heart full of sorrow, we are thinking of our Dad and missing him so much. Dad was always such a loving and giving person. Many years ago Dad discovered how sick he was. Though he had worked hard and solved many problems on his own, he knew this was one battle he could I not face by himself. He knew he needed the Lord on his side. I have often heard him say that one of the happiest days of his life was when he walked into the water and was baptized. As each day passed you could see him become more humble and accepting his fate, he came to love and trust the Lord so much. On June 16, 1987, at 5:12 p.m., the Lord said, "Orville, the battle is over, you have won the victory, it is time to come home." Oh, Dad, how we love and miss you. But when we lift our eyes in prayer we can see that you are rejoicing with Jesus and by the grace of God someday we can meet you there. Orville Jones, son of the late Allie Jones and Anna Hall Jones, was born at Garrett, Kentucky June 12, 1922. He passed from this life at the High Point Regional Hospital in High Point, North Carolina, Tuesday, June 16, 1987, being 65 years and four days of age at the time of his passing. Orville was a member of the Mount Olivet Old Regular Baptist Church at Blackey, Kentucky. Orville was married to Hester Bates Jones on March 7, 1949. He was a retired coal miner. Orville is survived by his wife, Hester Jones of High Point, N.C.; one son, Steve Jones of High Point, N.C.; four daughters: Carolyn Wright of Lexington, Ky., Ruth Ann Hatton of West Liberty, Ky., Sandra Erle and Brenda Lou Howard of High Point, N.C.; one brother, James Jones of Estill, Ky.; two sisters, Audrey Williams of Fisty, Ky. and Rhoda Hall of Louisville, Ky. Also surviving are seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, and a large number of relatives and friends to mourn his passing.

MADDEN, DEWEY -Dewey was born on September 23, 1926, to Gobel and Fronia Ritchie Madden. Dewey was the second child in the family, with Audrey being the first. Dewey and Audrey shared a special relationship, especially during the recent years. This was obvious during Dewey's illness - Audrey was there for him and his family each day. Four other children joined Dewey and Audrey: Guy, Luther, Bill and Phillip. These brothers also cared for Dewey very much and were with him frequently, doing what they could to comfort him. At the age of 18, Dewey began working in the coal mines. He worked in the mines for over 27 years. On May 10, 1954, Dewey married Eva Feltner of Lotts Creek. Over the years, Eva was a very faithful and loving wife to Dewey, and Dewey felt the same toward her. They lived in the community of Sassafras until 1963. They then moved to Irishman, where they made their permanent home. In 1958, Dewey and Eva had a daughter, Debbie. In 1966 another daughter, Kathy, was born. Dewey provided for his family in every way - giving them material things, but above all, giving them his precious love. In 1984, Debbie married Fred Back, who seemed like a son to Dewey. Although it is a small family, they are one of the closest families ever, helping and depending on each other during difficult times and sharing many special times together. During his illness, Dewey had a wonderful experience in which God came into his life and helped him and his family through their darkest times. It was during this time that many area preachers visited and held prayer for Dewey. These preachers were, and still are, very comforting to Dewey's family. Dewey had many, many friends that were especially supporting and comforting to him and his family during their time of need. Dewey's family will always be thankful for you. On April 26, 1988, this community lost a great husband, father, son, brother and friend. Our lives will never be the same, but we are so very thankful to have had Dewey in our lives for as long as we did. Dewey will always be remembered with much love and kindness, because this is what he gave to those around him.
Written by his daughter, Deborah Back

MADDEN, GORDON -In loving memory I will try to write an obituary of our beloved Daddy, and a beloved husband to our mom. Gordon Madden was born on May 1, 1904 in Perry County. He was blessed to live 84 years, two months and twenty-three days. He was the son of John Madden and Lucinda Cody Madden, who preceded him in death; also three sisters, five brothers, one daughter and one son. In 1932 he married Leo Dicie (Mullins) Madden and was blessed to have fifty-six wonderful years together. To this union were born four girls and four boys. He left to mourn his passing: his wife, Dicie Madden; three girls: Glenna Sue Ramsey, Betty Jean Amburgey and Andy Christine Amburgey; three boys: John S. Madden, Charles G. Madden and Eddie Dean Madden; one brother, Truman Madden; three sisters: Ada Madden, Martha Slone and Jewel Collin; nineteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He has been a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church since 1952. He loved to go to church and sing the good old songs. The day he died he was singing with his brother and sisters from the Church. He helped with one of the songs and said he thanked the good Lord for blessing him to sing one more time. When he died they were singing "A Better Place To Go." He never met a stranger and he loved everybody. We had a wonderful daddy. He will be missed very much by a host of family and friends, but we feel our loss is heaven's gain.
Written by his family

MILLER,  SYLVIA ISON -By the help of the Lord, I will try to write a short sketch of a dear wife and mother. Sylvia Ison Miller was born on October 2, 1917. She entered eternal life on April 17, 1988, making her stay on earth 70 years. She grew up in the eastern part of Kentucky, where she met and married Venon Miller. To this union were born seven children, two boys. Richard Miller of Columbus, Ind. and Jeff Miller of Scottsburg, Ind.; and five girls: Janet Lauter of Hanover, Ind., Jean Davidson, Jessie Burns, Jewell Shanklin and Sheila Gross, all of Scottsburg, Ind. In 1952 they moved to Indiana, where they raised their family. In 1975 she had a severe stroke and since has suffered bouts of sickness due to diabetes. She leaves to mourn her passing her husband, her seven children, her nine grandchildren, her two great-grandchildren, and two sisters, Della Taylor of Columbus, Ind. and Okra Maggard of Louisville, Ky. She was loved by all who knew her and we feel that our loss is heaven's gain. So sleep on, Mom, until that day when we can all be together again. Written by her broken-hearted husband and family

MULLINS, WILLIAM RILEY MULLINS AND MATILDA -William Riley Mullins, born August 20, 1900 and deceased November 11, 1976, was the son of Spencer and Elizabeth Mullins. Matilda Mullins, born October 29, 1897 and deceased December 3, 1987, was the daughter of Valentine (Tobe) and Evelyn Ashley Mullins. They met and married in 1918, and to this union were born nine children, five boys and four girls. Two sons and one daughter preceded them in death. Six children are left to mourn them, three daughters and three sons: Elma Pridemore of Amburgey, Ky., Maxine Johnson of Louisville, Ky., Virginia Mullins of Louisville, Ky., Brax Mullins of Louisville, Ky., William M. Mullins of Louisville, Ky. and Astor Mullins of Amburgey, Ky. Our mother has two brothers and one sister: Chester Mullins of Sassafras, Ky., William (Bill) Mullins of Michigan and Nora Franklin of Indiana. Our father has one sister, Dicie Mullins Madden of Pinetop, Ky. Also left are twenty grandchildren, forty-five great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. They are dearly missed by all who knew them. They both joined the Old Regular Baptist Church May, 1951 and lived a good life. Our loss is heaven's gain; we hope to meet them around the Great White Throne.
Written with much love and sorrow by their family

NICHOLAS, TINA (MADDEN) -Tina Madden Nicholas, seventy-five, of Corbin, died June 5, 1987 at Corbin Hospital in Corbin, Kentucky. She was born in Perry County on February 7, 1919. She was the daughter of John Madden and Lucinda (Cody) Madden. She was preceded in death by her husband, Garlin Nicholas; two sons, mother, father, two sisters and five brothers. Left to mourn their loss are two daughters, Jervis Ann Helton of Corbin, Ky. and Doris June Beiusuer of Greenville, Ohio, four grandchildren, three sisters and two brothers. She was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church for a few years. We feel our loss is Heaven's gain. She is missed so much by the family.
Written by Christine Amburgey and Ada Madden

Written by her family

PATTERSON, VINA -Today the sun is shining brightly, the birds are singing cheerfully, people are going about their usual Sunday activities, but the town of Blackey is sad, for another of its good citizens has departed this life and gone to live with Jesus. Blackey is grieving over a good Christian, neighbor, and mother, but heaven is rejoicing because another angel has reached home. Vina was the daughter of the late Bill and Callie Caudill Whitaker. She was the oldest of a large family and was a second mother to the other members of the family, especially to Walt and I. D. She was born May 20, 1905, and departed this life February 26, 1988, making her sojourn here on earth 82 years, nine months and six days. Early in life Vina met, loved and married Oscar Patterson of Tennessee. He preceded her in death and is buried at Petros, Tennessee. From this union is one son, Lewis W. Patterson; his wife, Annis; three grandchildren: Dan and Steve Patterson and Gail Waggoner; and five great-grandchildren, all of Indiana. In March, 1960, at the home of Vernon Cornett, Vina joined the church. She was baptized into the fellowship of the Mt. Olivet Church on the third Sunday in April, 1960. This happened to be Easter Sunday. She was a devout Christian and truly lived a Christian life. She loved everybody, and to know her was to love her. She saw good in everybody and always had something good to say about them. Vina was afflicted with cancer and spent the last few months of her life in the Hazard Nursing Home. Here she loved the people who took such good care of her, and they loved her. The family cannot express their appreciation and thanks for the love and care given her while a patient in their care. Besides her son, daughter-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Vina leaves to mourn her passing three brothers: J. Keller Whitaker of Cordia, Ky., Bill Whitaker of Morehead, Ky., I. D. Back of Blackey, Ky.; two sisters, Ruth Back of London, Ky. and Corsia Hale of Morehead, Ky.; also a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. She also leaves one aunt, Crittie Andrews, who has passed fourscore and ten years of age. Vina will be sadly missed by all who knew her, but we feel that our sorrow is heaven's gain. If she could speak to us today, I'm sure she would say, "Grieve not for me, my grief is o'er, weep not for me, I weep no more. For deep is my sleep though cold and hard, I rest in peace in the old churchyard." Written by Glenn Hampton

RITCHIE, CLYDE -Clyde Ritchie was born 1921 and died June 6, 1988. He was married to Irene Chaffins. They were married April 1, 1946. To this union were born six children, two boys and four girls. The boys are Carl Ritchie and Garth Ritchie. The girls are Linda, Kathy, Carolene and Susan. According to what he told his wife, Irene, she has no worries about his soul resting under the alter of God. Here is a poem he wrote about his repentance in his own words. We feel our loss is Heaven's gain.

RITCHIE, COLUMBUS -Columbus Ritchie was born October 18, 1908 to David Crockett Ritchie and Delilah Francis Ritchie, both of whom preceded him in death. Columbus passed from this life on Tuesday, June 16, 1987, making his stay here on earth 78 years, seven months and twenty-eight days. He was a retired coal miner and a member of the United Mine Workers of America. He leaves to mourn his passing five sons: Paul Gene Napier, Amel Ritchie, Billy Ray Ritchie, Kenneth Ritchie and Eric Dean Ritchie; two daughters. Glenna Faye Ritchie and Ethel Ritchie; six stepsons: Earl Patrick, Silas Patrick, Levi Patrick, Junior Ray Patrick, Robert Patrick and Billy Patrick; six step-daughters: Odessa Slone, Wanda Faye Conn, Shirley Dobson, Wilma Dobson, Ruby Conn and Opal Dobson; one brother, John Bud Ritchie; two sisters, Dora Fugate and Tennessee Ritchie; five grandchildren: Vicky, Melissa, Kimberley, Michael and Jonathan Columbus; one great-grandchild, Derick Scott Miller; forty-three step-grandchildren and twenty-nine step great-grandchildren also survive. Columbus will be missed here on earth, but we hope that our loss is heaven's gain.

RITCHIE, NANCY MESSER -Nancy Messer Ritchie was born March 13, 1915, the daughter of Jeff and Berry Marshall Messer. She married Jodie Ritchie March 13, 1938 and had two children, Frank Ritchie of Browns Mills, N. J., and Eva Ritchie of Schaumburg, Ill. Sister Nancy Ritchie's husband preceded her in death. She passed from this life February 1, 1988, after a long illness. Sister Nancy joined the New Bethlehem Church of the Old Regular Baptist about the month of June in 1942. Sister Nancy and her husband were ordained as deacons in the year of 1945. Sister Nancy will be missed at our church. But, we feel Sister Nancy's soul is resting under the altar of God, awaiting the redemption of the body. We loved Sister Nancy, but God loved her better and called her home February 1, 1988. Children, if you want to see Mother and Father again, you must repent. By the grace of God we will meet her in heaven some day.
Written by a brother in the Lord, Morris Shepherd

SEXTON, VINA CAMPBELL -Vina Campbell Sexton, born October 14, 1903, departed this life January 28, 1987, making her stay on earth 84 years, three months and fourteen days. She was the daughter of Steve and Sarah Halcomb Campbell, both deceased, and wife of Emmitt Sexton, who also preceded her in death. She was the mother of four children, one of whom also preceded her in death. Granny always counseled me and told me about the Lord. She was a member of the Cedar Grove Church on Line Fork. She always loved to talk about the good things of God and His marvelous grace and mercy. Granny is sadly missed by her friends and loved ones, but I believe she is home where she always wanted to be.
A sad grandson, Elder Johnny Sexton

SMITH, PAULINE -With a sad heart we will try to write the obituary of Sister Pauline Smith. She was born on March 16, 1938 and entered eternal life January 10, 1987 at her residence, Sharpsburg, Kentucky, making her stay on earth 48 years, nine months and twenty-four days. She was the daughter of the late Beckham Caudill and Martha Jent Caudill and later in life she was married to Lenville Smith. Sis. Pauline is survived by her husband, Lenville Smith; eight sons: Henry Herman Smith of Blackey, Ky., Danny Jo Smith of Sharpsburg, Ky., L. B. Smith of Lutz, Fla., Tommy Ray Smith of Lutz, Fla., Larry Dean Smith of Blackey, Ky., Elbert Lee Smith of Lutz, Fla., Ricky Wayne of Lutz, Fla. and Allen Smith of Sharpsburg, Ky.; two daughters: Betty Carol Eldridge of Blackey, Ky. and Tina Yvette Noble of Lutz, Fla. Also surviving her are four sisters and one brother, plus eleven grandchildren and her mother, Martha Caudill. Later in life Sis. Pauline joined the Little Bull Creek Church, in the month of November, 1978. So we feel our loss is heaven's gain.
Written by her husband and Mr. and Mrs. Virgil Combs

THORNSBERRY, CLEMETINE -A beautiful flower has been taken from our family for the Master's Bouquet. My heart is so broken as I make this attempt to write the obituary of my darling sister, Clemetine Thornsberry, also known as "Tee." Tee was born May 7, 1933, and died June 22, 1988, in an automobile accident in Penfield, Ohio. She was the daughter of Henry Tuttle (who preceded her in death in 1960) and Lillie Thornsberry Tuttle. In 1955 she married Ezra Thornsberry, whom she loved very much. They had four children: Ricky of Garden City, Michigan, Randy of Elyria, Ohio, Vicky Stamper of Wellington, Ohio, and Mrs. Tim (Sandy) Hall of Vacaville, California; seven grandchildren: Chad, Vin, Meagan, Amanda, Samantha, Nicki and Dusty. Tee was a graduate of Alice Lloyd College and Morehead State University. She taught school for twenty-nine years and was looking forward to retirement. But God wanted her home for retirement. She was a member of the Pleasant View Church for thirteen years and served as a deaconess for eight years. She worked very hard and went an extra mile at whatever she did. She left a mark on every life she touched and was loved by all. Besides her mother, husband, children and grandchildren, she leaves to mourn their loss three brothers and five sisters: Elder Hargis Tuttle of Elyria, Ohio, Hagar Tuttle of Canton, Michigan, Harold Tuttle of Topmost, Kentucky, Clovia Calhoun of Topmost, Kentucky, Hester Gregory of Morehead, Kentucky, Selinda Hamm of Paintsville, Kentucky, Afo Jean Jacobs of Pippa Passes, Kentucky, and Sharon Walters of Morehead, Kentucky. To all her family and friends who don't know God in the pardon and remission of sin, her advice to you would be for you to make preparations to meet God. This was her great concern for her family and her many prayers are bottled in heaven and they availeth much. She was so loved and needed by her family, but we know God had his reasons and we don't question "why." We thank God for her fifty-five years and the many memories of love she left behind. Her words that she would always say, "love you much" will always be precious to us. So Sis, we'll meet you again some day.
Written by her sister, "Love you much" Hester Gregory

TURNER, WALT -With a broken heart, I will write the obituary of my dearly missed husband, Walter Turner. Walter was the son of the late Monroe Turner and Ella Jane Day Turner of Harlan County, Kentucky. He was born August 6, 1935, and passed from this life into eterna1 life February 26, 1988, making his stay here on earth 52 years, six months and twenty days. Walter married Bertha Roark, daughter of Rev. Jonah Roark and Lona Cornett Roark December 3, 1960, and to us were born two children - Glenda Sue Turner Polly and Michael Odell Turner, both residing at Linefork, Ky. He also left to mourn his departure three grandchildren - Darneshia Mae Polly, Toshia Lynn Turner, Chasity Nicole Turner - and seven sisters, who loved him dearly. Walter had been in ill health a long time. In January of 1988 he was in the hospital, it was then that he told me he couldn't live like he was and knew he was in sin and needed the Lord. He called on the Lord and shared with me his experience. He said his bed shook like thunder and he knew it was his Savior. He also said he wanted to be baptized into the Old Regular Baptist Church because he felt like he'd never felt before about his soul and wasn't afraid now to die. I asked for a home service to be held at our house; it was there that he gave his hand into the church and was baptized February 14, 1988 into the Defeated Creek Old Regular Baptist Church. He served his Lord a short time, but said he was so happy now, and regretted he had waited so long and missed so many happy days. We miss him so much and shed a lot of tears as days go by, but we're so happy that he was ready when he had to die. I feel like he's in a better home, where he'll never smother again, never have any more sorrow, heartache, pain or sin and never have to die again.
A broken-hearted family, Bertha, Glenda and Mike

VANDERPOOL, JACK -It is with much sadness and a feeling of personal loss, I will try to write the obituary of my beloved husband, Jack Vanderpool. He was born March 17, 1903, and departed this life June 8, 1988, making his stay on this earth eighty-five years, five months and eight days. On September 11, 1928, he was married to Maude Dyer Vanderpool. To this union were born three children: Billy Vanderpool of Waynesville, Ohio, Bobby Vanderpool of Ft. Thomas, Ky., Peggy Ann Adams of Nashville, Tn. Also surviving are five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; one brother, Jim Vanderpool, Garrett, Ky.; two sisters, Laura Conley and Polly Hall, both of Prestonsburg, Ky.; several nieces and nephews. He was the son of John Vanderpool and Martha Ann Patton Vanderpool. He was a coal miner for over forty years. He was a very devoted daddy and husband. He never joined any church, but he told us he believed he had a better home awaiting him. Jack, sleep on. You have climbed the last mountain and crossed the last river. Your work on earth has ended. We miss you so much. By the help of the Lord, I will meet you again on that great resurrection day.
Written by a devoted wife, Sister Maude Vanderpool

VARNEY SR.,  RALPH W. E. -With God's help we will write the obituary of our dad, Ralph W. E. Varney Sr. Dad was born January 31, 1908 at Road Fork in Pike County, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his parents, A. M. Varney and Mary Magdalene Varney; one son, Paul Lester Varney; three brothers and one sister. He is survived by his wife, Onie Ledford Mullins Varney of Forest Hills, Ky.; three sons: Ralph W. E. Varney Jr., Larry Gene Varney of Frankfort, Ky., and Jack R. Varney of Cincinnati, Ohio; one stepson, Michael Mullins of Vermillion, Ohio; three step-daughters, Mrs. Peggy Cornett of Avon Lake, Ohio, Ms. Lena Mullins and Mrs. Judy Martin of Northport, Fla.; nine grandchildren; eleven great- grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; and one step-great-grandchild. Dad worked for the Norfolk & Western Railway for forty years. We were young boys when Dad came in and told us God had saved him. We went to the Salem Church and then to Tug River, where he was baptized. He began a journey that would last almost fifty years. He fought the fight, he ran the race and not once did he waver. He was ready and willing to take up the cause of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, anytime. Our thoughts can go back and see him sitting, reading his Bible. He was well versed in God's laws. He had the ability to explain the mysteries of God and would at any opportunity. He never backed off one bit. He was holding up the cross as high when he died as when he first picked it up. Jesus said, "I go to prepare a place for you and if I go I will come again in like manner to receive you so that where I am there you may be also." Surely our dad will raise to meet Him in the air to go home to the mansion he went to prepare; there to live throughout eternity. Dad cannot come back to see us, but we can go to see him. So, as we struggle to write this, let us say with a heart full of love, if you want to go where he is, Jesus said, "You must be born again." Don't fall short. Make preparations to go there while you have the opportunity. "God gives you breath and you live. He takes it away and you die." And after death comes the judgment. "If you die in sin you will be resurrected in sin," so prepare to go be with him. Seek Jesus while he may be found and go be with Dad. Dad set an example for us that cannot be misunderstood. He loved and cared for us and never once complained. His uncle stood at his casket and said, "A man of greater principles I never knew," and he was so right. Dad is resting around the throne of God until He says it is finished. Let's all try to meet him there.
Written by his sons, Ralph W. E. Varney Jr., Larry G. Varney, Elder Jack R. Varney

Written by his grandson, Daniel Varney

WATTS, HESTER -It has been said that a person writes his or her own obituary in the life he or she leads. This, then, is merely a tribute to a loving, hard-working mountain woman who deeply touched the lives of those who loved her. Hester (Combs) Watts was born February 8, 1905 to Jonathan and Dora Combs. On April 5, 1927 she married Jerome Watts, the son of Harlan and Sally Watts. They made their home in Watts Fork of Garner, Kentucky, and together reared six children-- five sons and one daughter. Times were often hard for them, but they loved each other with the simple devotion that remains a mystery to my generation. Hester and Jerome were both members of New Home Church, and strived to pass on to their children their own Christian values and morals. Jerome passed away May 24, 1963. My grandmother missed him terribly. She remained a widow until her death, twenty-five years later. On January 4, 1988, Hester entered eternal rest, at the age of 82. She is survived by five sons.- John Watts of Dayton, Ohio, Jerome Watts Jr. of Battle Creek, Mich., Chester D. Watts of Pippa Passes, Ky., James Watts of Crab Orchard, Ky., and Lee Roy Watts of Garner, Ky.; one daughter, Beulah Sturgill of Hindman, Ky.; one brother, Chester Combs of Port Richey, Fla.; and four sisters: Madge Allen and Lee Ester Ramey of Mousie, Ky., Lula Shaw of Johnson City, Tenn., Nancy Moore of Lackey, Ky. Also surviving are nineteen grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. In life, my grandmother was a source of warmth and laughter, a pillar for her children and a second mother to her grandchildren. In death, she remains an inspiration to us all.
Written in loving memory by her granddaughter, Debra Watts

WILLIAMS, DILLARD LEE-Dillard Lee Williams entered eternal life on Thursday, September 3, 1987, at the Knott County Nursing Home. Dillard was the son of the late Haston Layfette Williams and Mary Denson Williams. He was born in Gainsborough, Tennessee on February 10, 1910, being 77 years, six months and twenty-three days of age at the time of his passing. He is survived by his wife, Eveda Stamper Williams; one son, Michael Lee Williams of Premium; one step-son, Rocky Adams of Premium; one daughter, Tammy Williams of Premium; one stepdaughter, Bertha Adams Little of Premium; two brothers, Nevil Williams of Kingscreek and Virgil Williams of Louisville, Ky.; five sisters: Liza Couch of Premium, Lillie Ingram of Neon, Bertha Sexton of Whitesburg, Dora Jefferies of Indiana, and Ida Boggs of Kingscreek. He had eight grandchildren, along with a host of other relatives and friends to mourn his passing. Dillard joined the Kingdom Come Regular Baptist Church on August 7, 1977. He attended the church every time he was able. He was a very good neighbor and friend to everyone.

Written by members of Kingdom Come Church