Combs, Amos-With a sad heart and the help of the Lord, I will try, in a humble way, to write the obituary of my brother, Amos Combs. Amos was the fifth child bom to Fred and Lizzy Feltner Combs. He was bom June 24, 1921 and passed away at the age of seventy-one on June 26,1992.Amos, at the time of his passing, left surviving him two brothers, Robert and Jimmy Combs, both of Hazard, Ky.; three sisters, Blanche Yates of Hazard, Ky., Georgia Thomas of California, and Louise Gayheart of Indiana; and a host of nieces and nephews. When just a young man, Amos's country called upon him to serve in World War n and he gladly answered their calling. Amos received various military commendations for his time served. Amos served his country well, but like many others came home disabled. Amos came back to the old home place where he spent the rest of his life. The home place is now empty, a lonely place filled with lots of wonderful memories. In 1990, Amos was found to have that terrible disease, cancer. He bore his sickness without complaint One evening in 1991,as he and I sat alone, he informed me he needed to get his name on the Clear Fork Church Book. I inquired if he felt that he was ready and he assured me he had repented a long time ago. In May 1991, Amos gave his hand to the Clear Fork Church and was received with great joy. In the month of June 1991, although very sick, he was baptized into full fellowship of the church. Amos's sickness kept him from attending church. Along with several other members of our family, we miss Amos, but we feel our loss is Heaven's gain. So, to Amos' s loved ones, we feel like we have a little family in Heaven. Like the old writer said, they can' t come back to us, but by the help of God we can go to them. Written by Elder Robert Combs

Combs, Elder Granvil P- was born September 3, 1900 in Letcher County, Kentucky. He departed this life on March 7, 1990, making his stay here on earth 89 years, six months and four days. He was united in marriage to Doris Moore, who preceded him in death. To this union were bom five children, three sons and two daughters. One son preceded him in death. He later married Vodney Burk, who preceded him in death. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Lizzie Constable Combs; two sons, Charles of Piketon, Ohio and James of Indianapolis, Ind.; two daughters, Jacklin Darnell of Lima, Ohio and Gertrude McComas of Cridersville, Ohio; two stepdaughters, Dr. Sherry Hall of Waverly, Ohio, and Connie Stonerock of Piketon, Ohio; twelve grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and a host of friends. He was a retired coal miner and a U.S. Army veteran. Granvil came to the Lord at an early age. He loved the Lord with all his soul and talked about Him with everyone that he met His favorite song was "Great High Mountain." This world's loss was Heaven's gain. Written by brothers and sisters in Christ.

Cornett, Truby-My dad, Truby Cornett, was born on Dix Fork of Lotts Creek on June 25, 1924 to Nathanial and Cora (Smith) Cornett. He was one of ten children, four of whom died of diphtheria at a very young age. While serving in the army during World War n, Dad was severely injured in his right foot and leg. Although he never complained, pain was a daily reminder of his injuries. We, his family, would almost forget about his injury sometimes, except for a slight limp that was always evident in his walk. After he was discharged from the army, Dad married his childhood sweetheart, Bonnie Jean Smith, on May 2,1947. She is the daughter of Goodloe and Marian Smith. I am the only child and daughter resulting from their marriage, and I feel very blessed to have grown up in a home where I received love and the proper guidance. As I was growing up, Dad always talked a lot about the Bible. I often wondered how he knew about the things he would talk of. I soon learned that his mother had taken her children to church when the only place they had to sit was a tree stump or a wooden stand built under the trees. His mother would also read the Bible to her children, and my dad listened and remembered. Dad suffered a heart attack and had to have heart surgery in 1977. As a result, he had to retire in 1980, after 26 years as a heavy equipment mechanic for the Department of Transportation. During his illness in 1977, Dad remembered again the words his mother read to him from the Bible when he was a boy. It was then that he asked God to come into his life and save his soul. God brought Dad through many health problems in the past fifteen years, and I am so thankful, not only for Mom's and my time with him, but I'm thankful that my children, Shannon and Dustin, had the opportunity to know, love, and learn from their Papaw. He loved them very much. Dad joined the Clear Fork Regular Baptist Church on April 19,1987, and was baptized on May 2,1987. He was always eager to tell us about his God and what he felt we had to do to become children of God. At night, he would talk to Mom about God and how he prayed to be taken quickly when his time came. On Tuesday night, February 11,1992, at age 67, while he sat in his chair at home, Dad's heart stopped beating. He was taken quickly. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Bonnie Jean, one daughter, Janelle Johnson, son-in-law, Larry Johnson, one grandson, Larry Dustin, and one granddaughter, Shannon Nicole, all of Fisty, Ky. He also leaves behind two sisters, Margaret Davidson of Hazard, Ky. and Vonnie Owens of Fisty, Ky. There's a void in our hearts and our lives that can never be filled. The loneliness is always there. But when we are very weak and low, God reminds us of the many, many times Dad told us that he would take nothing in this world for the hope he had of going to Heaven. That is our strength and our comfort
Dad, we all love you and miss you very much! Your loving daughter, Janelle

Craft, Elder Lewis-It is with a sad and broken heart that I will try, with the help of God, to write the obituary of Elder Lewis Craft. Brother Lewis was bom May 26,1912 and departed this life April 2,1992 being 79 years old. He leaves to mourn his passing his companion, Sister Myrtle; one daughter, Joella Collier of Pikeville, Ky.; three sons, Frankie Craft of Indianapolis, Ind., William Craft of Onsted, Mich., and Johnny Craft of Hyden, Ky.; one stepson, Guy Pigman of Louisville, Ky.; four brothers, Watson Craft of Florence, Ky., Morgan Craft of Millstone, Ky., Ira Craft of Junction City, Ga., and Archie Craft of Springfield, Ohio; one sister, Dricilla Davidson of Petersburg, Ky.; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Preceding Brother Lewis in death were his parents, Archie and Pricy Adkins Craft, one companion, Henny Ritter, and eleven brothers and sisters. Brother Lewis was a man who had values and lived by them. He worked hard to provide for his family and tried to give his children a good education. He worked as a miner for fifteen years, taught school for eight years, and in 1949 began to work at the Kentucky Power Company, where he retired twenty-five years later. In 1964 he met and married Sister Myrtle Combs, who always stayed by his side through the heat and cold. Together, they worked side by side in raising their children, always teaching them about God, and how to get along in this life. They were so proud of all of their children. Early in life Brother Lewis saw the need of a savior, and in 1949 he gave his hand to the Sandlick Old Regular Baptist Church. Two years later Brother Lewis was called to preach. It was a job that God had given him and one which Brother Lewis performed well. Many times he would be called upon during the night and he and Sister Myrtle and the children would get up and go, never complaining. Sometimes it would be just to sing a song, for everybody loved to hear Brother Lewis sing. As I heard him sing, I thought of Solomon when he said, "The singing of the birds is come." Sometimes it would be just to hear him pray, for he could pray so beautifully. Brother Lewis also served as moderator for years and helped many churches as clerk. Whatever his job was, he always tried to do it well. I believe he was one whom Paul said "was worthy of double honor." Many of you have seen Brother Lewis preaching with little Johnny in his arms. I believe Brother Lewis could truly say, like Paul, "I have fought a good fight, I have kept the faith," and now finally he has gone after his crown. We all are sad now and weeping as we miss him already, but let' remember one of his favorite scriptures in the 30th Psalm, "Weeping ma; endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." Another one was "There's a time for everything. A time to be bom and a time to die." Brother Lewis's time came the other night when he finally got to live out his favorite song, "I Won't Have to Cross Jordon Alone," for surely Jesus was there waiting and I believe he said, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant Come now and enter into thy reward." I can't keep 01 writing everything that is coming to me, for it's coming so fast and I fee the Spirit as I write this, but let's remember that Brother Lewis is now waiting like Job when he said, "All the days of my appointed time will wait, till my change comes. Thou shalt call and I will answer thee." So, in closing, I say to my friend and father in the Lord, Brother Lewis just sleep on and soon we will join you. To Sister Myrtle I say, don't weep for Brother Lewis, for he is happy now and singing with the angels. He'; not sick anymore. To the children I say, remember Sister Myrtle, for she loves you all and needs you now more than ever. Written by a brother in hope, Brother Dwight Amburgey

Day, Lewis B-With a lonely heart, and the help of God, I will try to write the obituary of my loving husband, Lewis B. Day. He was the son of Samuel Day and Nancy Jane Amburgey. Born July 13, 1909, he departed this life October 20,1991. He was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters. Still living are Bertha Jones and Beatrice Turner. In the year of 1927, he met and married Elizabeth Ashley. To this union were bom five children, two sons and three daughters. One son preceded him in death, Lewis Day, Jr. Surviving him are his wife, Evelyn Day; one son, Chris Day, Oneida, Tenn.; Nadine Lewis and Lois Mullins of Glasgow, Ky. and Yvonne Day of Nashville, Tenn.; one stepdaughter, Anna Grizzle Hileman; fourteen grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church, took fellowship with Little Home Church, and served as deacon, then later lifted his letter and took it to Little Bethlehem Church, where he served as an ordained minister and moderator, along with other churches, where he served as moderator also. His whole life's desire was to be a helper for the upkeep of the Old Regular Baptist faith and order. Later in life he moved to Virginia, where he met and married Evelyn Grizzle Hale. There he continued his love for the churches. He traveled many miles to be with his brothers and sisters in the churches. His door was always opened to all that would go home with him. By the life he lived, we believe our loss is Heaven's gain. He will be missed by all who knew him. To all his family and friends, get ready to meet him in a better world.
Written by a broken-hearted widow, Evelyn Day

Eldridge, Colonel -was bom June 2,1908 in Letcher County, Kentucky. He was the youngest son of William Preston and Elizabeth Crase Eldridge. In April 1928 he married Angelina Caudill, who preceded him in death in 1970. To this union were bom five children: Gertrude Hicks, who preceded him in death in 1974, Kenneth of Milan, Clinton of Sunman, Clyde of Lawrenceburg, and Ida Richards of Tampa, Florida. In September 1974Colonelmarried Alice Watts, who brought him great happiness and comfort. She also survives him. Colonel was a member of the Cedar Grove Old Regular Baptist Church and had been since the 1930s. He was called to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and was ordained in the 1950s.Besides Alice and his four surviving children, he leaves to mourn his passing twenty grandchildren and thirty-six great-grandchildren, as well as a host of other friends, relatives, and brothers and sisters in Christ. Written by his grandson, Gary Lynn Eldridge

Evans, Basil - was bom January 22,1904 to James Evans and Mary Belle Godsey Evans in Perry County, Kentucky. In February of 1930 he was married to Norma Smith Evans and to this union were bom four children, three daughters: Peggy Lynn, Wilma Irene and Mary Lou; and one son, James S. Evans. Basil was employed in the coal mining business until he was injured in a coal mine accident, after which he moved to Michigan and worked for the McLouth Steel Corporation. After his retirement from McLouth, he returned to the family farm, where he lived until his death on June 27, 1922.Dad was proceeded in death by his wife, Norma, who died four and one-half years earlier. He suffered the loss of his right leg in 1989 and was bedfast for three years. Basil had seventeen grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren. We, children and all of the grandchildren, mourn Dad's passing, but feel blessed to have Dad live to be eighty-three years old. He was interred in the family cemetery at Scuddy, Kentucky. Dad joined the Little Dove Church in August of 1989.Written by his girl, Peggy Lynn McIntyre

Everage, Sister Nancy-was bom in Knott County, Kentucky on June 20, 1942 to Linzy and Fannie (Turtle) Mosley, and fell asleep in Jesus April 8,1992. At a very young age she met and married George Everage, and to this union were bom four sons: Michael, George Jr., Jimmy and Matthew, all of St Mary's, and four daughters: Lorraine Everage, Mrs. James (Vicky) Beckman, Mrs. Matt (Jo Ann) Pendergraft, and Mrs. Paul (Denise) Cassidy, all of St Mary's. She also leaves to mourn their loss ten grandchildren, her father, Linzy, and four sisters: Mrs. Olden (Jean) Burke, Columbus, Ohio, Mrs. Donald (Wanda) Francis, St Mary's Ohio, Mrs. Sterling (Louvella) Marcum, Inez, Ky., and Mrs. John (Roshella) Calhoun, Clio, Michigan; and four brothers: Earl and Carl of Hindman, Ky., Cary and Carlos of Lima, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her mother. I watched Sister Nancy grow with her family, and like all of us with big families, she went through some hard times, but it never seemed to dim her happy smile and warm greeting. When her family and friends would come to visit, she had a love that reached out and shone about her, and you would always feel uplifted when you came away. Even when she became ill with that dreadful disease, cancer, as we watched her walk in the shadow of death, her faith and trust in the Lord shone even brighter and she would still greet you with that loving smile and say, "I'm glad you came." Sister Nancy felt the need for the Savior while still a young mother, and joined the Church at Lima, Ohio and was baptized November 16,1969. She was faithful to her church and filled her seat right to the end. Only three days before she died, when she was so sick, she asked the brothers to come and have church in her home. She sat up in bed and sang, "I'll Fly Away in the Morning," and shouted and praised and blessed the Lord, and the next three days she quietly and gracefully slipped away to Jesus. Children, your mother taught you well and it showed in the kind, loving way you took care of her while she lay sick. Brother George, you and Nancy had the kind of relationship that most people only dream of having. Nancy was happy with her family, but now she has moved on to a happier home, where she can shout and give praise to the one she put her trust in forever. Surely the angels must have rejoiced when Sister Nancy took her flight and entered into that peaceful rest to await the voice of the Arch Angel, to awake them that sleep to an everlasting life. She will be missed at the Garden of Love Church, but deep in our hearts our spirit can witness how good it is to rest in the Lord. By Sister Mary Triplett

Fields, Ella Roark - was born in Letcher County, Kentucky, April 25,1905 and entered eternal life September 11,1991 at the Whitesburg Hospital at the age of 86 years, four months and seventeen days. Ella is the daughter of the late George Roark, and Loiusa Fouts Roark. She was united in marriage to the late Elder R.H. Fields. Ella is survived by seven children: Everette Fields, Edward Fields, Bruce Fields and Bert Fields, and three daughters: Verna Day, Elaine Hoegeman, Ruby Burns. Other survivors include seventeen grandchildren, and twenty-five great-grandchildren. Granny, you're gone now, and Kingscreek has lost one of its precious old gems, and you are missed by so many near and far, and Granny, although you never gave us any indication as to how you believed while on this earth, I am praying each and every day that you're up in Heaven, walking around in sweet Beulah land. I hope to meet you some sweet day after while, where we'll live on and I will forever see your smile. I love and miss you so much now, Granny, and I'm still grieving. I miss seeing you out working in your flowers and calling our house every day. And Granny, I hope you 're not lonely way up there, like you were down here many hours. Granny, your children all miss you and Pa, and there's not a day goes by that you're not mentioned in their prayers. I pray you're happy, oh, Granny dear, and that you never have to shed another sad or lonesome tear. Sing us a sweet song from up there and tell all the angels that I'm coming up there. I want to tell the world when He called you, that you were a rare and beautiful flower. I'll always love you, Granny, and miss you forever.

Fields, Vina Lusk Pratt- was bom August 27, 1910. she was the daughter of William H. and Elizabeth (Whitaker) Lusk. Vina departed this life on March 19,1992, making her stay here 81 years, six months and twenty days. Early in life Vina met and married Jeptha Pratt on May 14,1922, and to this union was bom one son, Hargis Pratt Hargis was bom dead in 1934. Jeptha preceded her in death many years ago. Vina spent her life caring for the sick and elderly, who were unable to care for themselves. She went from house to house up creeks and hollows to help those who needed help. She took her elderly grandmother into her home and cared for her until she died, as well as an uncle who had no one to help him, whom she kept until death claimed him. Vina joined Big Leatherwood Old Regular Baptist Church and remained a member of the Church almost fifty years. On December 7,1979, Vina met and married Elder James D. Fields. James preceded her in death.

Franklin, Verda Amburgey-She was born October 27,1918 and died April 24,1992. She is survived by two sons, William and James, and five daughters: Nadine Handshoe, Carolyn Campbell, Janet Nickles, Glenda White and Doris Johnson, she is also survived by two brothers, Wiley and Monroe Jr., fourteen grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and one step-great-grandchild. Verda loved the church and she loved everybody in it. She was baptized into the Little Dove Church on November 15,1987. Our loss is Heaven's gain. Written by her loving daughter

Griffie,  Clarence -was born on May 28, 1916 on Turkey Creek at Banks, Kentucky. He passed from this life on May 26,1992, making his stay on earth two days short of seventy-six years. Not counting the heartaches, disappointments and sickness, Brother Clarence had a long and rich life, filled with many wonderful blessings. It would be impossible to name every blessing the great God of Heaven has bestowed upon him, but I will try to set forth a few of them. On June 15, 1935 he married Mattie Caudill, who remained a loving and devoted wife for the remainder of his life. To this union were bom two fine sons and three precious daughters: Bobby Griffie of Cornettsville, Ky., Kenneth Griffie of Lexington, Ky., Claudette Watts of Red Fox, Ky., Renavae Malone of Lexington, Ky., Sandra Kerns of Wilmore, Ky. Also left to mourn his passing are seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, one brother and three sisters: Marlin Griffie, Mary Bowling, Dellree Cornett and Travis Ison. Brother Clarence was an honest, hard-working man who raised his family by being a farmer, lumberjack and coal miner, until being disabled in 1963. Many years ago Brother Clarence realized his lost condition and his need to return to God. After praying until being delivered from his burden of sin, he joined the Big Leatherwood Old Regular Baptist Church and was baptized in 1957. The church began to see his good works and sincerity in serving God and shortly thereafter he was ordained as a deacon. In June 1973, Brother Clarence and Sister Mattie brought their membership to the Cedar Grove Old Regular Baptist Church, where they have remained. He has fulfilled his deaconship well by being a light and inspiration to us younger brothers and sisters, to the Church, and to the community. He loved his family and always counseled and advised them in the ways of the Lord. God blessed him to see three of his children profess a hope in Christ and be baptized and come into the Church. A book could be written about the life and sayings of Clarence Griffie. One of his favorite sayings was, "Now boys, the truth will stand when the world is on fire." That which he hoped and prayed for above everything else, he has now attained. Surely we can see some stones piled up and know the way he has gone. So for now, it is just so long for a short while. For there will be a grand and glorious reunion. Elder Squire Watts

Hale, Corbet-With God's help, I will write the obituary of Corbett Hale, my friend and my dad. He was bom the son of Elam Hale and Virgie Madden in Bath, Kentucky, June 2, 1910. He was one of seven children by this marriage. The Lord called him to his eternal home on the first day of May, 1992.Dad was united in marriage May 15, 1931 to Dovie Bentley. Just one year ago Mom and Dad were fortunate to celebrate their sixtieth wedding anniversary. To this union were bom six sons and three daughters. The children are: Carlie, Charles, Maywood, Margaret, Ivan, Billy, LaVerne, Everett and Nathan. He also leaves twenty-four grandchildren and twenty-two great-grandchildren. Dad was a big man, a logger for many years, standing over six feet tall, and carried the word of God and his worn and ragged Bible as he traveled. He was very proud to have been an Old Regular Baptist preacher for over forty-four years. He told all who would listen to his story of life as he traveled fifty-seven trips from Washington state to the hills of Kentucky. Most of these trips were as a delegate to the annual sessions of the association. Some of you may remember his ever-present car top carrier, which stated, "Tacoma, Washington to Hindman, Kentucky." Dad was always quick with a smile and a friendly conversation. He loved to discuss the Bible. He might call at any time and inquire about cross-references on a topic he may have been researching. Dad lived 81 years, eleven months here on earth. We will always miss him, until we meet him again in Heaven, where joys will never end, where there will be no more pain or sorrow. Dad called for me as he lay on his death bed, and as we talked, his concern was his children - where their souls were going, and what was needed to be done to prepare for a better, eternal home. He asked that we "keep the family circle together," and that we "love one another" and "remember the home that can be ours in Heaven." He was very proud of his family and loved them very deeply. He loved to share with other people the memories of his lifetime. He cannot come back to us, but we can go where he is. Dad set a good example. Let us all try to meet him here. Let us all strive for a better life, so we can meet around the throne of God.
Written by his son, Everett Hale

Hamilton, William H. Jr.-was bom September 14,1947. He passed away suddenly May 1,1992. He leaves behind his wife, Jo Ann, daughter, Amiee, father, Wm. Hamilton Sr., stepmom, Bea Hamilton, two brothers, Jim and Gayle Hamilton, one nephew, Wm. Hamilton as well as some aunts and uncles. You are gone, but not forgotten, not a day or night I don't think of you. Your dad and I visit your grave very often. Seems it's not real you had to leave so young. I had known William since he was twelve-and-a-half years old, and loved him as my own. He was always good to me, and we never got mad at each other or said an unkind word to each other. I always tried to do my best to help him. I feel William is at peace, as I have had some wonderful dreams about him. I'm looking forward to meeting him in Heaven someday. So rest in peace until we meet again. With God's help, written by his stepmom, Sister Bea Hamilton

Albert H. Hill, son of James and Pearl Whitaker Hill, and Naomi Wells, daughter of Preston and Mary Jane Lewis Wells, were married March 23,1935. To this union six children were bom: Darrell, James, Dale, Geraldine, Lois, and Glenda. They were both members of Poorfork Old Regular Baptist Church of Cumberland, where they served for many years as deacon and deaconess. Albert departed this life on January 23, 1975. Services were held January 25, at one o'clock p.m at the church. Interment followed at Maggard Cemetery with Rev. Billy Stanton and J.D. Maggard officiating. In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by one brother and five sisters. Naomi (Oma) left this life January 17, 1992. Services were held on January 19 at the church. Elders Jim Fields, Charles Shepherd, Eugene Wilder, and Harvey Creech officiated. Burial was beside her husband. The six children survive, along with two sisters. Dad's vision ..."While working in a mine, I saw a ball of fire. It was so real I could feel the heat. I fell on my knees and started praying. I prayed for two nights. I looked up and saw an angel. I gazed upward to see the angel's face. It must have been twenty feet tall. I knew I was saved at that moment/Mom's dreams ...Mom dreamed repeatedly about following Jesus up a mountain, always keeping a part of Him in sight. She also dreamed of eating manna while here on earth.

Huff, Elsie C.-With much sadness and also with joy in my heart, I will try to write the obituary of Elsie C. Huff. Elsie was bom May 27, 1950 to Arnie and Perley Cornett and passed from this life January 1,1991. She was a devoted member of the Hurricane Gap Old Regular Baptist Church. Although Elsie was bedfast, she attended church regularly. Elsie was loved by everyone and she loved everyone. Elsie will sleep in the Henry C. Cornett Cemetery until the good Lord comes to get all His saints. It has been a pleasure for me to have known Elsie and she inspired me in the spirit and encouraged me to go on when I was low in the valley.
Written by a brother in the Lord, and a friend, Elder Charles T. Shepherd

Johnson, Kennis- was born March 3,1920 in Rowan County, Kentucky, and departed this life August 2,1992. He was the son of the late Tom and Rozennie Caudill Johnson. Although he had been handicapped since early childhood, he never gave up and was a retired farmer. He married Eula Katherine Bumgardner on June 8,1946. They were the parents of four daughters: Katrina McCarty, Sharon McCarty, Pam Buckler and Tarn Easterling. He was also blessed with eight grandchildren and two step-grandchildren, whom he dearly loved. One grandchild preceded him in death. He also left four brothers and five sisters to mourn his passing. Three brothers preceded him in death. He was a faithful member of the Little Mary Church and will be greatly missed by family and friends. Written by his wife, Eula Johnson

Miniard, Delno-It is with much sorrow and sadness that we will try to write the obituary of our father, Delno Miniard. Dad was born to George and Sarah Shepherd Miniard August 12, 1903 and passed from this life August 16,1992. Although our grief is new and hard to bare, we feel our father has gone to a better home. He was a good husband, father and grandfather. There were ten children bom to Delno Miniard and Mamie Gross Miniard, nine of whom are still living: Vernon Miniard, Marjorie Holbrook, Nazie Caudill, Mabel Birkla, Tommie Smith, Odell Miniard, Gladean Shepherd, Frances Cornett, and Carolyn Pratt George Miniard is deceased. He was a retired coal miner and farmer. He lived all his life in Perry County and was a faithful member of the Hurricane Gap Old Regular Baptist Church. Dad was never happy after our mother died, in November 1986, but we know they are happy together around the throne of God.
Written by broken-hearted children, Gladean Shepherd, Carolyn Pratt, Tommie Smith

Moore, Opal Johnson-It is with a sad and broken heart that I will try to write the obituary of Sister Opal, who was a very close friend and sister in the church. Sister Opal was born October 9, 1919 and departed this life September 12,1991, making her stay here on earth 71 years, eleven months and twenty-one days. Preceding her in death were her parents, Ellie and William Johnson, and two sons, Delmar Paul and John Steven. Left to mourn her passing are her husband, Hiram Moore; one daughter, Peggy Ann of Mallie; three sons: Gary Roger of Cleveland, Ohio, William Michael and Robert Lee of Mallie, Ky. Also surviving is one sister, Laura Johnson of Menifee County, Ky., and ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Sister Opal and Brother Hiram were married on October 19,1938 and she kept her promise to Brother Hiram and God, saying until death do us part, for over fifty-two years. Early in life, Sister Opal saw the need of a savior, and in 1957 she was baptized into the Reynolds Fork Old Regular Baptist Church, where she remained a member until her death, being a member for thirty-two years. Sister Opal also served the church as deaconess for many years. She was a faithful member to the church, and she put her whole heart and soul into working to up build the church. Sister Opal loved her church and its members very much. When one of its members was in trouble, she was in trouble. We all will miss her very much in the church, but her seat will never be empty because she left a light shining for all the world to see, and for her children and grandchildren to see, and to know always that Mommy had been this way. Sister Opal had the dreaded disease called cancer, but she never complained. She bore her sickness with the patience of Job. To Brother Hiram and her children I will say, Sister Opal was happy here with you and she treasured the moments with you, but she is even happier now. She has no more pain and is suffering no more. God sent His angels the other morning to bring her home to be with Him. Part of her children are already there, and I hope the rest of you will meet her again, also. Sister Opal was like the apostle Paul when he said, "The time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight and I have kept the faith. Henceforth, there is a crown laid up for me." I believe she is wearing that crown now. She is like Job now when he said, "Hide me away in the grave, then appoint me a time and remember me. All the days of my life will I wait till my change come. Thou shalt call and I will answer." She is only waiting now. Soon she will get that new body. Written by a brother just waiting in hope, Brother Dwight Amburgey

Mullins, Ella Mae -was born on December 6,1910 to the late Enoch and Polly Mullins Pridemore. She deceased this life on December 29,1991, making her stay on earth 81 years and twenty-three days. Early in life Aunt Ella met and married Uncle Elza Mullins and to this union were bom five children, two sons, McKinley of Amburgey, Ky. and Larry Philip of Escanaba, Mich.; and three daughters: Deretha Bellas, Mary Lou Johnson and Jeanell Mullins, all of Amburgey. She is also survived by two sisters: Susie Mullins and Mable Amburgey, both of Amburgey, Ky. She also has surviving seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Aunt Ella was a wonderful woman. She was so good to everyone. She had a smile that told everyone she was happy to see them. Although Aunt Ella was sick for a while, she bore her sickness in stride. She never complained about anything. She worked hard all her life and was very proud of her family. Aunt Ella never joined the church, but I feel by the life she led and the talks we had that she has just gone on to be with Uncle Delza. I feel they are with Jesus, just waiting for the rest of the family to get there. So children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends and relatives, if you want to see her and Uncle Delza again, you will have to go to the same God they believed in. So don't say "good-bye," just say "so-long for a little while." We will see you again on Heaven's bright shore. This poem seems to fit Aunt Ella as she always seemed to take each day as it came.
I place my faith and trust in God to face each new Born day,
And know that with His guiding hand, I will not lose my way."
I'll not despair when things go wrong, as they will sometimes do,
Because I know my inner faith will serve to pull me through.
I know that when I need a hand that God is always near,
And can face what lies ahead without the slightest fear.
Written by her nephew, Elder Ollie James Mullins

Packard, Faye -beloved wife of the late Fred C. Packard, Sr., entered into eternal rest on June 8, 1992. She was the mother of James E. Packard, Delores Flachbart, William H. Packard, Florence Carroll, Richard C. Packard, Janet Hall, Fred C. Jr., and the late Robert Packard. She was the grandmother of thirty-two, great-grandmother of 65, great-great-grandmother of two. She also leaves a host of friends and relatives to mourn her passing. Her final resting place is in Cleveland, Ohio. Grandmother went to the West Pack Baptist Church. She was bom November 13, 1990. Grandmother was a friendly person who always liked to have people at her home. We believe that Grandmother is at rest in the arms of Jesus, and some day, if the family wants to see Grandmother in Heaven, make peace with God.
Written by Mr. and Mrs. Earl Combs and Sister Lois Packard

Roark, Laura -a model mother, entered eternal life August 30,1991. She was born June 19, 1907 into the family of Jeff and Mary Jane Halcomb Caudill, in Letcher County. Laura was married to John D. Roark, who preceded her in death. Laura reared sixteen children. This in itself would qualify her as a superwoman. Of these sixteen children, ten were her biological offspring. She was a member of the Defeated Creek Old Regular Baptist Church, wherein she had been a member for approximately thirty-five years. Mama was an obedient servant of God and cherished her fellowship in the Old Regular Baptist Association. Mama believed and proclaimed that Jesus was the solution to all problems. She never failed to express His wondrous ways and to recommend him as a savior for her children and others. Mother had a wish that she echoed often, her wish to die in the spirit of the Lord. We, the children, other family members, and Christian friends, were by her bedside when she died. I feel that her obedience and devotion to God contributed to her wish being granted, because we witnessed spiritual events that convinced me that Mama died in the spirit of the Lord. I feel that this eloquent passage from Jacqueline J. Hancock echoes Mama's thoughts, especially for her children. "I'd like to be the one who's there with you when you're lonely or troubled or you just need someone to hold on to. I'd like to do all this and more to make your life happy. But sometimes, it isn't easy to do the things I would like to do or give the things I would like to give," so trust in God. Submitted by her children

Smith, Thelma-With much sadness in my heart, I want to write the obituary of my dear Granny. She was bom June 3, 1916 and passed away April 7, 1992. She was married to the late Herman Smith and to this union were bom eight children, seven sons: Shep Smith (deceased), Curtis Smith, Ray Smith, Edward Smith, all of Carcassonne, Ky., Joe Smith of Blackey, Ky., Lenvill Smith of Letcher, Ky., Herman Smith Jr. of Jeremiah; and one daughter, Nancy Jane Deaton, Carbon Glow. She is survived by two sisters, Mae Maggard of Ovenfork, Ky., and Rachel Clark of Massachusetts. She also has a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a faithful member of the Little Bull Creek church for thirty-some years. She loved her church very much, but wasn't always able to go. She was a light in a lot of people's lives, especially mine. I grew up mostly in her home, and she gave me good advice and taught me a lot of good qualities. She talked to me a lot about the Lord, and I will always be grateful for that Granny, I miss you and it's hard to go to your house knowing that you're not there, but the home you're in now will be yours eternally, and hopefully your family will meet you there. I know God is taking care of you, and I want to thank Him for that and for taking you home so you won' t have to suffer any more. Sleep on, sleep on, dear Granny, and I hope to meet you someday. Sister Thelma is missed by the family members, friends, and neighbors. Written by her granddaughter, Mary Jane Back

Tolliver, Ethyl Lynn -daughter of Granville and Ritter Quillen Hall, was born on April 30,1938 at Halo, Kentucky. She is survived by her husband, Paul Tolliver, whom she married on October 9,1965, and sons, Robin Paul and Mark Paige. She was a virtuous woman whose humble heart and gentle hands made their house a home. She was a faithful member of the Little Dove Old Regular Baptist church at Sassafras, Kentucky for fourteen years. She felt the call of the Lord so strongly that she could not turn Him down, and she was blessed with a spirit of forgiveness because she knew how it felt to be forgiven. It was with the love of a mother that she told her sons about Jesus. Ethyl went to be with Jesus, whom she loved so much, February 5, 1992. Although she has gone from this life, her memory will live on in our hearts as a wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend, who was always there for us. Her presence was like a springtime breeze, her smile like a ray of sunshine, and when we remember "Auntie," we will remember only good things. Your loving family

Wilder, Travis Halcomb - was born August 19, 1929. She was the daughter of Dewey and Mattie Shepherd Halcomb. Her brothers are Murrel and John Halcomb. Her sisters are Betty Cook and Glina Stitzel. She was married to Eugene Wilder and they had two children, John Patrick Wilder and Celeste Ralston. She is survived also by a lovely granddaughter, Carla Ralston, whom she was so proud of, and a little grandson, Christopher Ralston, whom she loved very much. It is not an easy task to write about Travis in a short space. Several years ago, Travis saw the need of a savior, repented, and was born again. She was a member of the Poor Fork Old Regular Baptist Church. I don't know who enjoys their salvation or church membership more than she did. She went to church many times when she really wasn't able and always thanked God for allowing her to be with her brothers and sisters "one more time." Travis tried to greet every person who came to the Poor Fork Church with a smile and a handshake. As a deacon's wife, she executed her duties well. When god called Gene to preach, she supported him whether she was able to go with him or not Travis had great faith in God, and I believe that faith raised her from her sickbed many times. I believe that faith enabled her to attend a family reunion in Tennessee and visit with her natural family the weekend before she died. We all have precious memories of Sister Travis, and miss her very much. She always tried to keep us laughing and we miss that. In June, 1991, God, in His infinite wisdom, decided to call Travis home. While we miss her, we are comforted that she is with the Lord.
Written by Dosh Fields at the request of Bro. Eugene