New Salem Association of Old Regular Baptists of Jesus Christ

1951 MINUTES 
Of The One Hundred and Twenty-Sixth Annual Session
September 21, 22, and 24

OBITUARIES

Transcribed by Terry Triplett

Akers, Melissa-In deep bereavement I will try to write a short sketch of the life of my mother, Melissa Akers, who passed away from this life February 9, 1950. She was the daughter of John C. and Mary Tipton, born December 20, 1853, living to a ripe old age of 96 and having clear mind as long as she lived.  She was married to William Akers, January 24, 1876, and to this union was born eight children, all living to adult age, but mother had to stand by and see five of her children and also a beloved husband confined to the tomb, leaving only two daughters and one son, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great great grandchildren with a host of friends to mourn her loss. How well I remember mother telling us of her Christian experience, how at about the age of 18 she was born of the Holy Spirit, and never tired of serving her blessed God.  For about 65 years she was a faithful member of the New Salem Church of the Old Regular Baptists, and was a firm believer in the old-time doctrine.  While the body returns to the dust from whence it came, we believe the Spirit is resting in the paradise of God waiting the resurrection of the redeemed.                  Written by her daughter Oma Akers Robinette.  

Akers, Mollie Keel-Molly Keel Akers born November 2, 1869, deceased October 26, 1950, age 80 years, 11 months and 24 days.  She was married to Andrew J. Akers in October 1887, and to this union were born four children, two boys and two girls.  Halter Akers, Melvin, Kentucky, McKinley Akers, Robinson Creek, Kentucky; Eunice Jones, Virgie, Kentucky, Pheona Wallace, Robinson Creek, Kentucky.  Sister Akers joined the Robinson Creek Church the first Saturday in September, 1950, and was baptized the first Sunday.  She leaves to mourn her passing the four children and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Sister Atkins was affected for about 14 years, the most of that time she was blind. Her husband passed away February 2, 1949, leaving her alone.  She stayed at the old home until the 26th day of June, then sister Eunice got her to go to her home.  She just lived four months there and God called her home to him.  Will say to Sister Eunice, I know it is sad with you and the children, but I feel that the Lord will bless you for the way you treated mother in the four months she was at your home. Will say to the children who have not professed a hope, if you ever see your mother again, you'll have to be born again, as we believe our loss was her great gain.
Yours and hope, Joe Jones. 

Allen, Alex, Elder-It is with much sadness I write a short sketch of the life of brother Allen, who was born November 21, 1868, and deceased is life November 30, 1948, having stayed with us 80 years and nine days.  Bother Allen was married to Mary Allen, and to this union was born seven children, namely: Esther Allen Martin, Myrtle Allen Childers, Mae Allen Callison, Eugene William Allen, George Allen and Alex Vernon.  Six still living, Esther Martin deceased. Brother Allen joined the Bethel Church 55 or 60 years ago, and preached far and near over this country, walking and preaching without price or money.  Oh, how we miss him in the Bethel Church, and in our community.  Brother Alex was one of, or one among, the oldest ministers in the New Salem Association, and was faithful to his church, and to the cries of the brokenhearted.  He is just gone out through the valley and shadow of death, as I believe, just resting from his labors and his works do follow him.  He is gone but he is not forgotten.  In our hearts, he still lives, and Bethel Church will long cherish the memory of him.  So children, if you want to see father again, repent of your sins, and turn to the Lord, who will save you and give you precious hope of seeing him again. Written by, Elder M.C. Wright.  A Memorial of Brother Allen will be held at Bethel Church August the 4th Saturday and Sunday, 1952, with Elders George Hagans, London Francis and M.C. Wright, attending. 

Blakley, Cordella E.-I will try and write an obituary of my dear mother.  I miss her so much.  She was the wife of Garrett E. Blakley.  Mother was born October 20, 1877, and died September 26, 1950.  To this union were born 13 children, all now living but one.  A brother and father passed on a few years ago, I believe they are at rest.  So all the brothers and sisters who remain, let us try and live so our lives, and the way we live, will be pleasing to our God. So, Lord, help us to live as father and mother taught us who always set good examples before us, and took us to church when they could.  Father and mother belonged to the Old Regular Baptist Church as long as I can remember, and always stood up for the faith.  I believe they are now at rest, for we read that the righteous shall rest from all their labors, until the great day when He comes to call us home, which will be a happy meeting for us there, for He says we will be known as we are known.  So we must try to be ready for that great day
Written by a brother in hope, and unworthy son, J.R. Blakley.  

Boyd, Rebecca Jane Kidd-Rebecca Jane Kidd Boyd was born June 3, 1882, deceased January 24, 1951, making her stay on earth, 69 years, 7 months and 21 days.  She was married to John Boyd August 16, 1895, and to this union was born 12 children, of which three preceded her in death; two in infancy, and Manual was killed in the coal mines, leaving nine children, 44 grandchildren, two brothers and one sister, Elias and Andy Kidd and Lizzie Boyd, and a host of friends to mourn her loss. She joined the New Salem Church first Saturday in October 1921, and then the first Saturday in January 1950 she was in the arm that was given to organize the Little Salem Church on Prater Creek, where she lived a faithful member till death. Children, you have lost a good mother; the church has lost a good sister.  Prater Creek has lost a good neighbor.  May God bless you children to meet your mother where you will not have to say farewell.  I want to say to Alex, Cam, Mark, Golda, Johnny, Kelly, Ola, Rena and Minery.   It takes being born again if you ever see mother again, for I deeply feel that she is asleep just waiting for God to call her from the shores of time.  She was so good and kind when we met her.  She would have a good word for all. Brother John, I know you are lonesome; your best friend is gone, but I sure believe that you and her will live over yonder again.  May God bless this family to meet mother.  I could go on and on.  I must close as this obituary is lengthy.  So may God bless you all. Written by Elder T.K. Hall. 

Caudill, Lois-It is with a sad heart I try to write an obituary my dear wife, Louise Caudill, who was born May 3, 1891, and died November 12, 1950, at the age of 59 years, 6 months in 9 days.  She joined the Old Regular Baptist Church September 4, 1938.  Was married to Floyd Caudill, July 4, 1910, and was the mother of 12 children, seven sons and five daughters.  Two sons and two daughters preceded her in death, leaving her dear husband and eight children to worry, and also she leaves 41 grandchildren, three sisters and one brother to weep over the loss of her company. I feel with all my heart that her soul is under the altar of God, from the kind words she left before she died.  She said she saw her daddy and little babies and Virgie Craft coming after her, to take her home.  Her sister Rosa Hall said to her, “Louise you are home, and she said no, no, this is not my home, my home was with the good Lord”.  The last words she said to me were Floyd, I'm going to leave you, take care of yourself the best you can.  Lord help us all. Written by her dear husband brother Floyd Caudill.  

Chitwood, Elbert-By request of Sister Anna Chitwood that I try to write this sketch and it is with a sad heart and unworthy feelings that I write an obituary of the dear brother in the Lord to wit Brother Elbert Chitwood.  He was born May 23, 1894 and departed this life June 28, 1952, 57 years one month in five days.  Brother Chitwood joined the Old Regular Baptist Church June 1948, at the Philadelphia Church on Brush Creek and took up fellowship at Maggie’s home at Dundas, Ohio and lived a good and faithful member.  He was clerk of the Maggie’s Home Church and served his office well.  He was well loved by all that new him and when he met with his brethren he always had a friendly smile and a warm handshake for all.  He always showed his love in deeds as well as words and he sure did enjoy going to meetings and being with all the Brothers and Sisters, and I believe by the life which he lived is a good witness to his companion and all that knew him that our loss is his eternal gain.  For it is by his fruit that he bore which prompts me to believe that he was a true born child of God for it is by their fruits that you know them, or judge them, so here is to any of his relatives that want to live with him again, my advice is for them to make peace with God this side of the grave. His favorite song was “I'll sang a song which doth belong to all the people around me”. His request for the following Brethren to preach his funeral on the fourth Saturday and Sunday in June 1952 at Maggie’s Home, Dundas, Ohio; Elders Newton Vanderpool, M.C. Allen, Sherman Crum, Willie Collins, Mitchell Chaffins, Banner Manns, Malcolm Ousley. Written by an unworthy brother in hope, Newton Vanderpool. 

Coffee, William Wiley, Pvt. -In much grief and sorrow I will try to write a short obituary of our darling son to-wit; William Wiley Coffee.  He was born February 12, 1932.  Met his death on the battlefield of Korea on February 13, 1951, while defending the liberty of our country. He was awarded the Silver Star medal, the nation's third highest award for gallantry in action.  He was a member of company “F” of the seventh infantry Regiment.  The award was made for his outstanding leadership in an attacking platoon which had been pinned down by enemy automatic and small arms fire in February of this year.  The citation reads, “disregarding the safety of himself, he exposed himself to the enemy fire to maneuver his way up the hilll toward the enemy machine gun which commanded the terrain on which he was advancing”.  He was a squad leader and when he got within throwing distance of the machine guns, he lobbed a hand grenade into the position of the enemy, killing them.  His action permitted company “F” to continue up the hill and secure its objective. The citation continued, “The gallantry of private Coffee is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service”. We are very proud of this although it has been so hard to give him up.  It has nearly killed us all, but God knows best in all things.  And we have glorious hopes of seeing him again where the battle will be over forever and there'll be no more wars to take our loved ones from us. According to the letters he wrote his mother, the Lord had blessed him in the battles. He also wrote his brothers and sisters and told them to love one another and be good children.  He was loved by his family and neighbors and associate friends.  He was a good moral boy and we believe that he made peace with God before his departure.  Now left to mourn his loss are his father and mother Mr. and Mrs. Wiley Coffee.  Three sisters and two brothers and many friends.  We do believe through the loss of our darling son that it was his eternal gain in heaven where parting will be no more. Written by Elder and Mrs. Baxter Osborne. 

Courtney, George & Sarepta-It is with a sad heart, that I try to write in memory of George and Sarepta Courtney.  He was born in Scott County, Virginia, March 8, 1848, died June 11, 1921, age 73 years, three months.  He was the son of Samuel and Feaby Courtney. Saretpa was born in my County, Kentucky, don't know her age, she died September 28 and, 1930.  She was around 70 years old when she deceased, and went on to meet her husband, who went on to the glory land nine years before her death. Uncle George came to Pikeville, Kentucky, and married Sarepta Marrs, the daughter of Thomas and Mary Marrs and to them was born three children, the oldest one preceded them in death.  They left two children a boy and a girl and many friends to mourn their loss. One month after aunt Sarepta died her only son, Tom Courtenay, died and went on to his father and mother to be with them forever. Uncle and aunt belonged to the Old Regular Baptist Church, about 24 years, uncle George was ordained a deacon of Island Creek Church.  They both filled their seats as long as they were able. The writer had known them for about 40 years.  Brother George always was a quiet peaceable and good humble man, good and kind to everyone.  I believe they are enjoying the place where our dear Lord said he was going to prepare for them that diligently seek him.  He said to his disciples that he was going to prepare a place for them and that, where I am you may also be.  Brother George took the awful disease Dropsy, he was confined to his homes for two years.  He bore his sickness was much passion. Sister Sarepta was crippled and walked on her crutches 15 years of her life, and her life was no pleasure after her husband died.  She wanted to die, she said, she wanted to go and be with Pa. Sister Mollie and her husband went to their home to care for them, and they done all they could to keep them, but the good Lord sent to his death Angel after them and took them where there's no more sickness, sorrow, pain or death.  Sister Mollie pray on in the good old way, and it won't be long till you meet that good old father and mother of yours and all the loved ones gone on before-to that world of peace, and happiness. I will say to the grandchildren, if they ever want to see grandfather and grandmother again, they will have to repent of their sins and be born again.  I hope to see my uncle and aunt again.  They are sleeping in the graves on the big hill awaiting Gabriel to blow the trumpet so loud it will awake the sleeping dead.  I believe they all will be in the number that arise and go on to meet the blessed Lord in the air. I could go on and on and say many good things about our good brother and sister but space will not permit.  I believe they are resting from all their labors around the throne of God, were partying is no more. Written by a brother in hope of eternal life, Rufus Courtney. 

Ford. A. D.-born March 28, 1880, passed away in January 26, 1951, aged 70 years, 10 months and 29 days.  The son of William J. Ford and Rebecca Sword fight of Pikeville, Kentucky.  He was united in holy matrimony to Rosa Compton, December 24, 1902.  To this union were born nine children, four sons and five daughters, Clara, William James and Carrie who preceded him in death.  L.B., Frank, and Edgar, Mrs. Burl Burke, Mrs. Worth Davison, Mrs. Ralph Karcher, 22 grandchildren and one great grandchild.  One brother, Clell Ford and four sisters, Mrs. Harve McGuire, Mrs. Thomas Damron, Mrs. Fred Martin and Mrs. Tilden Robinson.  A host of relatives and friends to mourn his death.  He professed a hope in Christ, we fill our loss is his eternal gain. Written by the family.   

Fouts, Thaney-It is with a sad and aching heart that I will make this attempt to write a short obituary of my father to wit: Thaney Fouts.  He was born May 16, 1874, deceased September 22, 1950; he was 76 years, 4 months, and 6 days old.  He was married to Renda Hall, about the year of 1896, and unto the union were born six children, two boys and four girls; and he was a faithful member of the Rebecca Church for 56 years, and he was a poor man, and had a hard way to live in this world, to support his family, and father taught us children the best he knew, and he told his children when he come down to die, to live a good life and come home to him, and meet him in heaven, and he had a stroke November 5, and laid in bed for about 11 months, until one Friday night of the Association, when the death Angel came and took him, and it was a sad hour for mother and children.  Father and two girls confessed they hope in the Lord and four children still in sin, two boys and two girls.  I hope they will return and come home, and I will say if you ever want to see father again you'll have to fallout with sin and be born again.
Written by his brokenhearted daughter, Lizzie Jane Hall. 

Hall, Betsy Holbrook-It is with much sadness I tried to write a short sketch of the life of my beloved wife, Betsy Holbrook Hall. She was born unto Mr. and Mrs. Randall Holbrook, October 30, 1882.  Departed this life April 17, 1951. She was married to Monroe Hall June 10, 1902 and to this union was born eight children.  Seven girls and one boy, who are all leaving  yet. My children and I are left to mourn the loss of a good wife and mother.  The names of her children are as follows: Sarah Jane, Lear, Anna, Hazel, Liza, Arnie, Maggie and Woodrow. Her children loved her and assisted me in caring for her in every way they could. She joined the Joppa Church of Old Regular Baptist in October, 1936.  She lived a good Christian life until the pale horse and his rider came on April 17, 1951, and took her away and left me and the children to weep and mourn over her leaving.  So I may say to my dear children, your good and kind mother is gone and can't give you the good advice anymore, but her words of advice should still remain and not be forgotten.  So as your poor father is sad and lonesome the good Lord has still blessed me to be able to stay with you and pray for you all. May the good Lord bless you all that are out in sin to give it a thought about dying and where you are going.  Children, if you ever want to see your good mother again you will have to follow the steps of Jesus, bless the Lord she was so careful to travel the old-fashioned way.  She always filled her seat at her home church and attended the other Regular Baptist Churches in the area.  Many has been the times that I have seen her clasp her hands and rejoice in the Savior's love when hearing good preaching.  She was always glad to see her brethren and sisters come to her home and have a chance to talk with them about the goodness of our blessed Redeemer.  I know the Lord is her shepherd and that she shall never want.  I feel to know that her cup is running over and someday when I have passed through the valley of the shadow of death, I will find her waiting. She was always a good humble person, liked by all who knew her.  We have great faith in her being at rest. Children, the good Lord will descend from heaven with a shout and before long your mother will get up from that cold grave to meet our Lord in the air, and shall be with the Lord forever. Children, my heart's desire and prayer, to God is that you will remember the good humble life your mother lived before you and returned unto the Lord.  Be saved and meet her in heaven. The funeral of Betsy Hall will be preached at Mouth of Jack's Creek, at W.R. Hall Cemetery, Friday the fifth Saturday and Sunday in May, 1952.  Everybody is invited. Written by a sad and heartbroken husband.  Monroe Hall.   

Hall, Clerinda-It is with much sadness I try to write an obituary of my dear sister in the Lord, I hope.  Sister Clerinda Hall was born May 14th, 1881, and died May 15th, 1950, age 69 years and one day.  She was married to Miles Hall in 1898, and unto this union were born 10 children, six sons and four daughters.  She joined the Old Regular Baptist Church about 20 years ago.  She filled her seat when she was able.  She had a dear husband and two sons who preceded her in death, who have gone to a better home.  I hope from the words they said.                  Four sons and four daughters and several grandchildren are left to mourn over her lost.  She had one brother and four sisters left in this world.  It always seemed to please her when her brethren and sisters came to her home.  She always seemed kind to everyone, and always met them with a friendly handshake.  Lord help us all. Written by her brother Floyd Caudill.  

Hall, Wib-With sadness and a broken heart, I will write an obituary of my beloved husband, who died January 24, 1951.  Wib Hall was the son of Dock Hall and Timpie Wireman Hall, he was born November 21, 1895, making him 55 years, 2 months and 4 days old.  He was married to Flurinda Davis, April 28, 1927, and to this union were born eight children, five boys and three girls, one of the boys having died at the age of seven weeks.  His wife and seven children remain to mourn his loss, but we believe our loss is he is eternal gain.  Children, if you all ever want to see your daddy anymore, you will have to fall out with the sin and make peace with the Lord.  I feel your daddy’s troublesome are all over and he is at rest with his little baby who went on before him.  Children, this world is a world of trouble and if you miss that bright glorious home in heaven, you have missed it all, so please, children, leave the field of sin today and get ready to go home where father, I feel, it is at rest today-just waiting for the sound of the resurrection call.  I feel when I have to leave this unfriendly world, my troubles will be over.  He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church July 3, 1948, and lived a faithful member until death.  He loved to go to church and his brethren and sisters.  His family misses him, also his brethren and sisters and many good friends.  He’s memorial fourth Saturday and Sunday, July, 1952. Written by his wife Flurinda Hall.  

Hicks, Fair-It becomes my duty to write an obituary of Brother Fair Hicks of Attic, Ohio.  He was born January 18, 1892.  He was married to Narcie Ousley, October 29, 1913, and to this union was born 15 children.  One deceased this life and 14 are living to mourn his loss.  Brother Fair joined the Little Rebecca Church of Old Regular Baptist October 5, 1947 and lived a faithful member until death.  He was loved by all who knew him and always enjoyed going to church.  He departed this life on March 13, 1951. Written by a brother in the Lord M.C. Allen. 

Justice, Bill-It becomes my sad and worried duty, to write an obituary of my dear beloved husband, Bill Justice. He was born July 12, 1905, and departed this life August 17, 1950.  He joined the Island Creek Church of Old Regular Baptist the third Saturday in January, 1950, and was baptized on Sunday, following. He was the father of three sons and four daughters, all are living.  It's a lonesome time for me, I miss him so much. He was good, and all his children and me have good hope of meeting with him in the sweet by-and-by. I am like the little dove, that lost its mate, I'm left alone to weep and mourn. But God, with who is rich in great mercy, wherewith he has loved him and took him to everlasting rest, where no trouble, sickness or death can ever come. Bill was kind to everybody.  He was good to me.  And children, if you want to see your father again, you must repent before it's too late. We loved him so much: but the good Lord loved him best and took him to rest.  So sleep on good husband until the good Lord calls and then in the great resurrection we will be reunited never to part no more.  I could say many good things about him but time and space will not permit. Written by his heartbroken wife Lena Justice.  

Kidd, Mack, Jr.-It is really sad heart I write an obituary of my dear Daddy.  He was born September 6, 1884, deceased June 3, 1951, aged 66 years, 8 months and 28 days.  He was married to Elizabeth Kidd.  They lived a happy life until she was taken by death.  Father then married a Vesta Hughes, and then to this union were born 11 children, five boys and six girls.  He has 26 grandchildren.  His first wife, his father and mother, three sisters one brother and four grandchildren proceeding him in death.  He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in July, 1951 and had his membership with the Little Dove Church.  Thank God Daddy lived to hear of his wife and three children confessing a hope in Christ and coming to the Baptist Church, the one I believe with all my heart is the Lamb's bride.  I want to say to the rest of the children who have not professed a hope in Christ the Lord, if you ever expect to meet daddy, you must be born again, and of that spirit of the Lord.  Daddy cannot come to you, but by the grace of God, you can all go to him.  We miss him and do love him, but God loved him best.  Daddy has left us all to mourn his loss, but we feel our loss is his eternal gain, a home in heaven. Written by his son and brother and hope, and daughter-in-law Mr.and Mrs. Mack Kidd Junior. 

Moore, Emmie-I will try, by the help of God, to say something about a good mother, to-wit, any more.  Mother was the daughter of the late Greenwill Stumbo and Katie Sizemore.  And when She was born about the year 1867, and departed this life November 24, 1950, making her stay on earth near 83 years.  Mother married Albert Moore about the year of 1883, and to this union were born 12 children, of which four preceded her in death, leaving eight children and a host of friends to mourn her loss.  I feel mother is now seated in heaven.  I want to say to my brothers and sisters, if you ever expect to see mother again, you had better repent just like I feel mother did.  I stood on the bank of Left Beaver Creek on the 19th day of August, 1934 and witnessed one of the sweetest baptisms I ever saw, which was the day mother went down into the water grave.  She came up shouting and declaring the goodness of God.  I am glad I have lived with mother in this world, both living together in Christ.  Mother had her membership with me in the Steels Creek Church, but her seat is now vacant there, but we all feel, from her life she lived with us, she now has her membership with Jesus in the glorious land where worries, heartaches and troubles are not known. Children, you all remember what a cold day it was when they took mother away.  As you stood by crying, some said goodbye, mother, but I did not say goodbye, I only said mother, by the grace of God, I will meet you some sweet day.  Mother stayed some few years with me before God called her away, and she often talked about how beautiful heaven must be.  She told me so many times she did not dread to die, only dreaded to leave us children.  Especially I want to say to you Ballard, I wish you would be a better boy, for life is uncertain and death is sure.  Ballard, if you die in sin, in sin you will be judged, and that judgment is bad.  Children, one moment in heaven is worth more than all Satan has, where there is trouble without end in Satan's kingdom.  And people one at all, I pray the time will come at all would live like mother did.  She was so good to us children, and why not meet her in glory?  Just take your troubles to Jesus-Christ, lay your burden’s down at his feet, and he will give you rest.  Mother was blessed with about 73 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Mother’s Memorial will be preached the fifth Saturday and Sunday in August, 1952, at the Lucy Hall Cemetery, with Elders Troy Nichols, Willie Collins, Hawk Moore and Hawley Warrens requested as ministers.
Written by her broken hearted daughter, Ms. Ida Moore Collins. 

Moore, Harry Lee-It is with much sadness I tried to write a short sketch of the life of Brother Harry Lee Moore.  He was a faithful member of Bethel Church for several years.  He was about 96 years old when he departed this life.  He was first married to Eveline Allen, and to this union were born two children, Quine and Maud.  After Eveline departed this life, Brother Moore married Pinie Hughes, and to this union were born two children, Albert and May.  After his second wife deceased, brother more married Ida Moore, and to this union was born seven children four girls and three boys, Bleverage, Artist, and Arnold Lee, the four girls being, Annis, Sarah, Mandy and Hilard. Brother Harry belonged to the Bethel Church about 55 years and loved the church and was faithful, and loved by all who knew him.  We miss him in the church, and also in the community where he lived.  We want to say to the children, if they want to see Brother Harry Lee Moore again to repent of their sins, and be born again, and when the great day of the resurrection of the dead shall come you can see him again in perfection. 
Written by your humble brother in Christ, M.C. Wright.  

Mosley, A. J. "Coon" -A. J.  Mosley was a son of Nathaniel Mosley and Polly Mosley.  He was born October 12, 1858 and died December 2, 1950 at the age of 92 years, one month and 20 days.  He was first married to Bug Moore, a daughter of George Moore and wife.  She bore him two children and died.  Some time after words he married Ellen Wicker, daughter of John Wicker.  Unto them was born 14 children, five boys and nine girls.  His family consists of his wife and 16 children, the greater part of whom proceed him in death, leaving only his dear wife, one boy and for girls remaining in the world, at his death, to mourn the loss of a dear loving father and husband.  Oh how sad I feel to write an obituary of my dear brother whom I loved so well.  How sad it is to me to write saying our brother is dead, but I hope to humbly bow to the will of God for there is none holy as the Lord.  The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away.  Blessed be the name of the Lord.  He bringeth down to the grave and also bringeth up from the grave. He was granted a long life in the world, even 92 years.  Yes, “with long life will I satisfy him and will show him my salvation”.  What man is it that liveth and shall not see death for all his days must pass away; but precious in the site of the Lord is the death of the saints.  We have to die in order to live.  If a man die shall he live again?  Now that he has gone never to be back here anymore.  His passing away brought much sorrow and grief to his wife and children, relatives and kind friends. He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church many years ago and took fellowship with the Old Caney Fork Church of Regular Baptist where he remained in full fellowship until death.  His wife joined the same church and they walked together in love and peace until his death.  He was a strong believer in the old time doctrine.  How often I've heard him say that the gospel was what he wanted to hear preach, and not so much sympathy to arouse natural affections of the brethren and sisters. Brother Coon suffered a great deal before he died.  But we believe it's all over with him now.  I believe on the second day of December, 1950 he felt his last pain and groaned his last groan in this world, and now his soul is at rest with his God whom he chose to serve.  It grieves me to the heart to see his dear wife so lonely and sad when I think of the great struggle that she went through in carrying for her dear husband and so patiently endured it.  So I will say to Sister Ellen, his dear wife to cheer up.   You have nothing to grieve over but the loss of your husband.  You did all you could to keep him but death outdone you and robbed you of your good husband.  Put your trust in the Lord and he will be with you.  Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord.  The Lord is a good stronghold in a day of trouble. You children who are still in sin try never to forget your father.  Remember his counsel and the life he lived before you.  He laid a pattern of good works and now what are you going to do?  There are five of you still living, namely: Rob, Gracie, Lizzie,  Rebecca, and Minnie.  I will ask you to forsake the wrong and turned to the Lord, and call upon the Lord before it is too late.  Remember the Lord is a good stronghold in the day of trouble.  Be good and kind to your dear mother.  She is praying for you.  She doesn't know how long she will be with you. I will now close this obituary and it is getting too long, but before I close I want to say a few words to Sister Ellen.  Dear Sister Ellen, do all you can to cheer up.  Your heart is so heavy burdened.  That your mind run back to the second day of December 1950, the happiest day that your husband ever saw in this world.  When God freed him from all his pain and suffering in this world, and as we hope, took his soul to a place of rest to suffer no more, and left his feeble body with you to be taken to the little graveyard near the top of a hill to be laid down by his dear son's whose bodies are lying there.  So let us hope and trust that God will let us see him again.  Oh, how I would like to shake hands with him again, but he is where I can't write a letter to him or hear how he is getting along; but let us be satisfied with the letter that came from heaven saying: “Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord.  From henceforth yea, sayeth the Spirit that they may rest from their labor, and their works do follow them. So I will close.  Written by sad brother J.C. Mosley.  

Mosley, Tom & Wife-With much sadness of heart, I will try to write an obituary of Elder Thomas Mosley.  He was the son of Nathaniel and Polly Moore Mosley. Born in Floyd County, Kentucky, September 3, 1859, died June 20, 1951.  Age 91 years, nine months, seven days.  In the year of 1883 he was married to Susan Bunch, who preceded him in death August 1, 1937. To this union was born seven children, for girls and three boys all still living.  He has 35 grandchildren, 90 great-grandchildren and five great great grandchildren. He joined the Old Beaver church when he was 23 years of age.  About three years later he was given the right to preach, although he wasn't ordained until the third Saturday in July, 1900.  Being in the ministry about 65 years.  He served as moderator of the Old Beaver Church until his hearing failed then he asked for a moderator and he was assistant moderator until death. Brother Tom always preached the old time doctrine.  In all his life there never was an accusation brought against him in the Old Baptist ranks. Oh, how we miss his presence in the Old Beaver Church where his membership was.  But we deeply feel that our loss is his eternal gain.  I believe when he went down through the valley in the shadows, no doubt in my mind he saw the Angels of God there to carry his soul home to the paradise.  There to rest until the redemption of his body in the morning of sweet eternity.  When all the Saints shall arises and wake in His likeness and then we will all be satisfied, when we with brother Tom will be awakened by the trump of God, and we will meet Him in the clouds of his glory and go singing to our home where sorrow and trouble will vanish for evermore. I will say to his children and grandchildren who are out on the barren mountain of sin, if they want to see their father and grandfather again they must fallout with sin and live for the Lord. Brother Tom told us on his bed of affliction he had tried to be a shepherd to the people and tried to lead them in the way they should go and not to drive anyone. On the last day he ever talked to us he told us of a vision that appeared to him.  He was at a meeting where Old Brother Ben and Tom Hopkins were preaching.  He said they were all dressed in long white robes and at the meeting they were all shouting, singing and praising God.  You should have seen the expressions on his face as he talked.  He looked as though he was looking at the great beyond. I have heard him pray to die at home in his right mind and I believe he knew everything to the last minute for he looked at me and tried to smile.  I could see death stealing over his face, but he couldn't speak to me.  He lay five days and never spoke. There is a place vacant in our church which can never be filled but we still have the memory of him and also the council he gave us.  When we go to the Old Beaver Church it seems we can feel his presence among us.  As he lay on his bed of affliction he told us he was only waiting for his summons to come home.  He was always kind to everyone.  The little children and many other ones will always watch for Uncle Tom to pass their home, he always had a kind word for everyone.  He bore his suffering without complaining, all and always saying, “thy will be done, not mine”.  But we feel brother Tom, is in a world where he will never suffer anymore. His funeral will be the third Saturday and Sunday in June, 1952.  Elder M.V.  Burke, Troy Nichols and Mitchell Chaffins by his request. Could have written many more good things about brother Tom, but space won't permit. Written by brothers in hope,  Mitchell Chaffins and Lee Shannon.   

Ray, Abraham-This wonderful brother was born October 22, 1891, died August 28, 1950.  He professed a hope in Christ about 16 years ago and was baptized into the fellowship of the Old Regular Baptist Church.  He had his membership in the Enterprise Church and was baptized by Elder Frank A. Hopkins.  He was a Deacon of the Enterprise Church at the time of his death.  He was always a faithful brother, patient and kind to all.  He would meet his brothers and sisters with a smile and a kind handshake.  He seemed to enjoy himself as a good as any brother I ever saw.  He took delight as serving as Deacon.  He always had things just right.  Oh, I do see him at the last Sacrament meeting he served.  He had everything so nice it seems as though he would never be back again.  I noticed him all day, he was so true and we surely miss him at our last Sacrament meeting.  It would be to much for us to write the many good things he did.  At last on August 28, he left his home and went to the mines to work.  A rock fell on him and killed him.  He was under the hill but not so far under the hill that his Lord was not there.  I believe that his Lord sent an angel there to get his soul and care for it, and keep it until the morning of the resurrection.  The family brought the body home after staying two nights, they took the body and buried it in the grave.  Now the good Lord has our brother’s soul and is watching over the body where it sleeps until he comes and wakes it up.  Then both soul and body will live together again.  The same soul that went out will come back again and dwell in the same body, changed from mortal to immortal.  So shall we ever be with the Lord.  Now children, I feel your father is happy, if you ever see him you will have to fallout with sin.  Sister Minnie, I feel you will soon see him again.  Our beautiful loving father has gone now passed on.  We cry, weep and mourn because he is gone.  No more can we see him on earth below.  But only with Jesus, if there shall we go.  He changed pasture in death, his spirit flown.  His spirit now happy with Jesus, his own. Come children embrace that kind loving Lord, and meet dear daddy by trusting God's Word. Written by humble brother in hope, Elder F.A. Hopkins.  

Ray, Eliza Jane-At the request of a dear beloved husband and children.  I will attempt to write an obituary of a dear and beloved sister in the Lord to-wit. Sister Eliza Jane Ray was born December 27, 1900.  Deceased this life May 28, 1951.  Her stay on earth, 50 years, 6 months and 27 days.  She was married to W.M. Ray, May 16, 1918.  To this union was born 12 children, five boys and seven girls.  Four of her children died while they were very small.  Three boys and one girl.  Sister Ray had 18 grandchildren and many friends to mourn her loss. Sister Ray joined the Regular Baptist Church on September 7, 1947, and was baptized September 20, of the same year, at the Robinson Creek Church, where her membership was accepted and remained.  She lived a faithful Christian life until her death.  Sister Ray was a good wife so, I know Brother Ray misses her.  His home is not like it once was.  There is a flower gone that will never blossom again in the home anymore.  Brother Ray and his children misses her sweet company in their home.  We believe she is happy and just waiting until the call comes for all who are in the grave to get up.  Then Sister Ray will be in that company to go on to eternal bliss. Dear children if you want to see mother again, fallout with sin and come to Jesus.  He will forgive you of your sins.  Then you can go on to that blessed home where we believe your good mother has gone.  Sister Ray was loved by many people.  She was so good to work and prepare things for her family and friends. I've visited her home where she served food and bestowed her kindness and courtesies in a manner that I shall never forget.  May God bless her husband and children.
Written by your unworthy feeling brother in hope of eternal life.  J.M.  Hall.  

Slone, Frona-In order to fill the request of its dear sick sister, I will try with much sadness to write sketch of her life.  Sister Frona Slone, a daughter of Andy Sloan and Nancy Adams Sloan, was born April 24, 1886, and was married to James S. Sloan, deceased December 10, 1900.  They never had any children, but raised one adopted child, Gilda Terry, and partly reared Lisie Sloan, and some of her orphan brothers and sisters. She also partly reared other orphan children.  Sister Frona joined the Old Regular Baptist Church and was baptized into the fellowship of the Mount Olive Church in the summer of 1911, by L.D. Mosley, and lives in love and fellowship in said church until death.  Sister Frona suffered many years and was passed doing anything much for the 5 or 6 years.  But she always seemed to bear it with patients, I overheard her many times, when she would be suffering with such awful pains, look up toward heaven and shout and talk of a beautiful home, awaiting her up there. She told me since she had been sick so long, that her hope had grown brighter, and she did not have much to fear, said sometimes when in a trance, she could see that beautiful home, and soon would be going to it, and when she would return to herself again, she would wish she had gone on, saying she was ready to go any time, and she could not find anything in her way at all.  And her request, I wrote the above and read it to her on March 24, 1951. About one week before she died she looked up and said “look at those two little angels, they look as white as snow”, she said she talked awhile with each of them.  The night before and the last night she lived, her sister Nana and sister Ida Sloan sat by her bed.  She asked her sister Nana to go with her and said “I am taking my lamp in my bosom, and said hurry good Lord with all the little angels”. Sister Frona asked me to close his obituary the way I felt about her, and I can truthfully say with all my heart, I believe her soul is at rest with God, that she died in the Lord, and is at rest from her labors.  So I will now say sleep on sister, I feel it will not be long until I will meet you where we can rejoice in the presence of our blessed Redeemer for ever.  Sister for Frona died May 19, 1951. Written by a brother in hope, Morrell Sloan. 
Sister Frona’s memorial will be the first Saturday and Sunday in September, 1952 with Elders Morrell Sloan, Sherman Sloan, E.H. Howard and Marion Sloan, requested to attend.

Smiley, Alex L. (In Memory of Father) Dad was born March, 1867 in Virginia the son of James Smiley and Sally Smiley and died January 24, 1951, at Dana, Kentucky.  His father migrated through the Pound-Gap to Kentucky in 1867, when he was only about two weeks of age, and settled near the mouth of Mud Creek, Harold, Kentucky, then moved to Prater Creek; Father and three sisters, Clarinda Smiley Boyd, Mary Ann Smiley Boyd, and Lathanie Smiley Clark, quietly peacefully and lovingly spent all of their adult life, running into ripe old ages- living neighbors, belonging to the same church, and always loving and respecting each other. He had one brother Dave Smiley, who died in Bristol Tennessee-Virginia, another Math Smiley died at Elkhorn City, Kentucky another John Smiley who was last heard from in Kansas City, Missouri, and another brother Will Smiley who went west many years ago.  He has one living Sister- Lizzie Porter, of Russell, Kentucky, who is over 90 years of age- another sister, Martha Smiley Carr who died many years ago. Dad married Alice Carrol, March 23, 1889, and to this union was born one daughter,Verlirie Smiley Casebolt who lives at Pikeville, Kentucky.  Father’s second marriage was to Sarah Akers, November 19. 1894, and to this union was born 10 children, Varney, Miller, Jason, Stella, George, Ivory A., Lizzie, Orville and Mattie of whom only 4 remain to cherish the memory of their kind and saintly father, to-wit: Varney Smiley, Ivory Smiley of Prestonsburg, Kentucky and Miller Smiley and Lizzie Smiley Akers of Dana, Kentucky.  His loving and Christian wife, Sarah Smiley, proceeded him in death also Father joined the Regular Baptist Church, taking up fellowship by Elder John M. Akers, and from that day to his passing away, the old church was his first love-growing stronger in faith day by day. As a minister is gifted of God to preach the true gospel, we believe he was gifted of the Lord to sing the songs of Zion, with the spirit and the understanding.  He loved the old time, Bible-inspired hymn’s and it seems he was continually happy in singing them-truly as all his neighbors and church brethren know, he was a bold soldier, title to one of his favorite songs. We children will always remember, the plain, humble and faithful life he lived before us, reading to us from the Bible, his ringing voice singing these good old songs around the fireside, in the field as he toiled to feed his large family, seeking to bring us up in the way we should go. I feel that he could “Read his title clear, to a Mansion in the sky”; that he had a premonition that death was fast approaching, when just before he became unable to speak, he said to Brother Miller, who had asked if he wanted anything, “I want to go to heaven”- that he stepped into that last, bitter and long struggle- crossing deaths river - with unwavering faith, that someone would be there to waft for his weary soul away from this sin-cursed world to one of rest in eternal bliss.  Father's last few years of life, were very sad and lonely for him, he lost his faithful and saintly companion, Sarah Smiley, and not long after his very dear, true and faithful daughter Hulda Smiley, who for many years lived a saintly and righteous life, being a member of the same old church, then he lost his companion, another faithful member of the same church Maudie Akers Smiley, his youngest son, Orville had passed away suddenly as did another son, Jason (killed in the mines), these and many other of sorrows were laid upon him; yet through it all he never faltered, but kept marching onward, day by day, toward the mark of the high calling.  His fight is over, the rest of his great triumph will be “When Jesus comes” to gather his children from the dust, and snatch those who may be living from the earth, changing them as He change itself on the Mount of Transfiguration.
Written by his unworthy son, who lives in hope of seeing dad again some day, I.A. Smiley.  

Tackett, Allard-It is with deep sorrow that I will write an obituary of our father, Allard Tackett.  He was a father indeed.  His many kind words and good advise will never be forgotten.  He was born March 25, 1900 and was married to Cordelia Hamilton on July 11, 1918.  To this union was born nine children four of which are still living.  Our father joined the Regular Baptist Church August 1936 and lived a faithful member until his death, September 13, 1950.  He wanted peace for everyone more than anything else.  We miss him in our home, wherever we are and in everything we do, but we feel that he is an angel in heaven, glorifying and singing God's praises evermore. Written by the family.

Tackett, Cleo-It is with sad a broken heart that I will try to write an obituary of my loving son to-wit: Cleo Tackett. He was born March 12, 1930, died June 3, 1951, age 21 years, two months in 21 days.  He was the son of Mont and Frankie Tackett.  He had two brothers, Bobby and Trilby and a loving wife and a host of friends to mourn his loss.  But I feel our loss is his eternal gain. He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on May 21 and was baptized on June 2, 1951.  On June 3, the death angel came and took him home.  He was so interested in the Lord that he called Bobby to his bedside and told him to pray and sent him into the house to pray and ask me to see if he was praying.  He called his other brother and told him to start out young to pray. I sat by his bed and heard him pray so many times.  He said: “I don't care who hears me praying for I have a better home awaiting”.  He said his sister Lizzie Tackett, “I see the prettiest home”, and she said where.  He said, “high, high above”.  I feel deep down in my heart that God called him to that pretty home, that saw above this world. The wanted everybody that came to see him to pray for themselves.  He bore his sickness patiently and said there is just one thing to do for me and that is pray that I may pass away with the ease and go to rest, for I feel there is nothing in my way.  The Lord has forgiven me of my sins. He said he saw Jesus and that was the prettiest thing he ever saw.  I believe when the Lord calls me I will see Cleo again.  I want everybody who knows the worth of prayer, to pray that my other two sons will follow the footsteps and do what brother told them to do.  I had so many good talks with him I do not doubt Cleo one bit.  He is just gone to rest until the trumpet sounds at the last day.  He wanted brother Burnke, Brother Sid Hudson and his dad to baptize him.  So we called long-distance for brother Sid who was in Detroit, Michigan.  He could hardly wait until brother Sid could get here.   As soon as Brother Sid arrived they sang a song and held prayer at the side of the cot then we marched to the water and he was baptized by brothers Sid, Mark Burke, Malc Ousley, Jonah and his Dad.  He was baptized about 10 o'clock Saturday morning and the only lived until Sunday evening until about nine o'clock. We believe that when he bid this world adieu, that he joyfully entered the paradise of God. Written by a loving mother, Frankie Tackett. 
The funeral will be preached in the first Saturday and Sunday in June 1952, on Long Fork.  Ministers especially requested, Elder Baxter Osborne, Sid Houston, Jonah Tackett, and M.V. Burke.  Everybody is cordially invited to come.

Tackett, Daisy-The following is a written testimony of Sister Daisy Tackett written in her own handwriting. As this has been bearing on my mind and by the help of the Lord I will try to write a few words about it. Jonah Tackett was born September 18, 1902.  Daisy Tackett, February 19, 1904 and was married April 24, 1919.  To them was born five children, two boys and three girls.  Two girls died in infancy.  Their names and birth dates are as follows Preston Tackett, born May 14, 1920.  Lotchie was born May 28, 1921, Ada was born August 17, 1922, Lavada was born December 23, 1923, Dasiy born September, 14 1929.  Ada pasted away August 3, 1923, Daisy on September 17, 1929, to that beautiful home on high. I have raised my other children the very best I know.  I do hope by the help of the Lord, they will turn over and live for the Lord for he is the one to live for.  Without him we can't live.  I beg my children to put their trust in Jesus. I have been suffering about 27 years and I have been blessed to live this long.  God has been good to me and I can't praise him too much.  It has been about four years and six months that I have been trying to give him the praise.  I have had my mind on him most of that time.  We, Jonah and I, joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in May 1947 and since that time we have put our whole trust in Jesus and it seems like since that time we have had Jesus in our home and there are not many hours go by but what I am thinking of Jesus for I know that is the prettiest name on earth. When I was sick and in the old hospital I thought I had to die.  Jesus came to me when the rest had to stand back.  I was so bad off that I could hardly raise my head but Jesus made me so happy that I had to raise up in the oxygen tent, and tell my daughter that I was going to get well.  He has blessed me to get on my feet again.  Thank God, I can give him the praise.  I know he has been good to me for many nights I lay down and think I can not get up any more, I go bagging to him to give me strength to get up again.  Sister Daisy passed his life and entered into that Heavenly country on the seventh day of January 1948. In answer to her prayers I., Elder M.V. Burke, and Jonah Tackett their father had had the privilege of baptizing her three children and as we believe the circle will not be unbroken. The funeral of Sister Daisy will be held at the Dr. Willard Tackett Cemetery beginning on Friday before the second Saturday and Sunday in August 1952.

Terry, Ella-It now becomes my sad duty write an obituary of a beloved sister, to-wit: Ella Terry.  She was the daughter of Leonard Gibson and Rhoda Martin Gibson.  She was born April 26, 1890, and deceased is life March 6, 1949.  She was married to Joe Terry February 9, 1904, and to this union were born five children, three sons and two daughters, who are all living. She joined the Regular Baptist Church and was baptized May, 1937 by Elders M.C. Wright and E.H. Howard.  She was always faithful in filling her seat in the Steels Creek Church where she had her membership.  She was loved by her brethren and sisters, and all who knew her.  She was so good and kind to everybody, and was such a good wife and mother. Brother Joe departed this life about two years before she did.  She never seemed to be satisfied after he passed away.  He would often say, “This is such a lonesome life.  I don't know what I would do if it was not for my good meetings”.  She said, “All the joy on earth is when I get a blessing from above”.  She loved to hear good preaching and was strong in her faith.  She believed in only one church.  I, the Writer, so often visited her, as she was my sister-in-law.  I can truthfully say, by her fruits, that she is at rest.  I want to say to the children, you had a good mother and father.  They love you and always gave you a good counsel.  She has one daughter, Ida Miller who belongs to the Baptist Church.  So you children, who are still in sin, fallout with sin and pray as Sister Ella and Brother Joe did, and also close in with your offered mercy while there is time.  You know you want to see mamma and poppa again.  My heart's desire and prayers are that you all will be prepared to meet mother again. I could go on and on saying so many good things about her.  We miss her so much in the church and her children miss her at home, but I feel our loss here is her eternal gain over yonder. Written by a brother in hope of eternal life, Elder Mack McCloud.