NEW SALEM ASSOCIATION
Old Regular Baptist of Jesus Christ
Held with Salisbury Church ~ Printer, Floyd County
September 23, 24, 25 1955

OBITUARIES

Transcribed by Terry Triplett

Akers, Floyd ~  In much weakness and sadness of the heart, I will try to help write a short obituary for Sister Eva and the children of the deceased. Floyd Akers was born the son of Levi and Nancy Hall Akers.  He was born April 15, 1869.  Departed from this life April 5, 1955, making his stay 85 years, two months and 20 days in this world.   He was United in married December 24, 1892 Nanie Justice.  To this union was born seven children.  Four boys and three girls.  His wife died February 5, 1905 leaving him and children to mourn their loss. He was united again in married to Christeen Jarrells in 1906.  To this union was born seven children.  Four boys and three girls.  Four of this union preceded them in death leaving him, her and one brother, two sisters and two half-sisters to mourn their loss.  Then April 22, 1946, Christeen departed this life.  Leaving her husband, one son, two daughters, and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her loss. Later on he was married to Mary Eva Hunter, who stood faithful by him until death.  Leaving his dear companion and dear children: Ada Akers, Minnie Moles, Jeff Akers, Annie Blevins, and May Adams.  One brother K. F Akers, one half brother George Akers, and two sisters, Ellen Kidd and Kate Dalton, and great numbers of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, relatives and friends to mourn his loss. He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church many years ago, his favorite song he loved to hear so well was, “I Have a Call For You My Friend”, and he loved to hear his brethren preach salvation by the grace of God. Children, you can truthfully say you had a good daddy who loved you all, he loved to see you all come and to see him and talk with him.  It is hard to believe he is gone, but we had to stand by and see him go in death even to the narrow ledging of the tomb, but not from our memory which will be hard to forget, after seeing him suffer so with no doubt in our mind that he is just sleeping an waiting for that great day of the coming of the Lord when he can go to that country where it will be peace and joy forever and ever.  Sister Eva I know you are lonely and lonesome anymore, but I feel, you have that hope of meeting him and the most of his children have professed that hope of meeting him with all the other Blood washed band of God.  I hope the others make peace and meet him to, this I feel was his many prayers.  He took sick the 20th day of March, he suffered until in the morning April 5th near 4 o'clock when we felt the death Angels come in and conveyed that part home which was born of God, and let his body decease this life so easy.  With all he bore it with great patience, ready to pay the last debt which was death.  With that great hope formed in his soul of living again in that heavenly country with all the Blood washed band.  A few nights after he took sick, they had a meeting for him, he seemed to enjoy it so much.  After it was over he talked with them for a long time.  Then he made some request he wanted done after he departed this life, the most have been filled, the rest, I hope will be.  His dear companion, and children and step sons and daughters, let's look forward to meeting him in that Promised Land.  His request that his funeral be preached starting on Friday evening through Sunday, closest to the 15 day of April, 1956.  Following ministers he requested was as follows: Brother Johnny Hall, Tack Hall, Linney Boyd, Luther Conn, Banner Manns, Sam Thomas and Walter Akers.  My prayer is that they will be able to fill the request and preach the great mysteries of God, under his mighty power. One who wrote this obituary loved him and you all.  May God bless each and everyone with many good blessings and save us all in the end.  Written by Paul B. Akers.

Baldridge, Fair ~ Born on July 30, 1898.  Deceased on July 17, 1953.  Age at death was 55 years, 17 days.  He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church.  He lived a faithful life until death.  His loss is greatly missed by his family and friends.  We trust our loss is heaven's gain. He was the son of Wess and Ellen Baldridge.  He leaves his wife Rebecca and one daughter, Louisa and one son Rudolph and five grandchildren and four brothers and two sisters to mourn his loss.  By our faithful work and trusting in God we will meet in heaven again some day.
Written by his wife Rebecca Baldridge and daughter in law Azlee Baldridge.                 

Blevins, Ireland ~  With the help of God, we will try to write the obituary of our beloved brother, in Christ, and my dad, Ireland Blevins.  He was born March 1, 1904, and departed this life July 27, 1955, age 51 years, four months and 26 days.  He was the son of Mont and Emma Charles Blevins.  He was married to Bonnie Helvey Blevins October, 27, 1920.  To this union was born four children, two sons and two daughters, all who survived their dad.  He professed a hope in Christ and joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on April 23, 1933, and was baptized by Elders Hayse Maynard, and Berlin McCoy.  He lived a good Christian life until death.  He had membership in the Burnings Springs Church.   Brother Ireland was sure that when God called for him he would fall asleep in Jesus and them that sleep in Jesus will God bring with him when he comes. Brother Ireland wrote these words before he died.  “I've have always believed in a resurrection of the dead, that these bodies go back to the dust and in the resurrection of the dead, they will come forth, they that love good, unto the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil unto the resurrection of damnation”.  He named the brothers who he wanted to preach in his funeral, but he said “that every man preached his own funeral, and I want you all to preach to my wife and children, and tell them that Christ died for them.  I want to be taken to the Salem Church at Goody, Kentucky.  I want the old-time songs sung over my body. Brother Ireland talked to me before he died, and he left the assurance that he had a better home when he was called to go.  He left his wife and children, and a host of her of relatives, brothers and sisters in Christ and friends to mourn his loss.                  Written by Harrison Blevins and Mrs.Phyliss Varney.

Boyd, John ~  By request, it is now my duty to write an obituary of a dear neighbor and I trust a brother in the Lord.  Two-wit: Brother Johnny Boyd was born December 25, 1871.  Deceased this life March 20, 1955.  His dear wife deceased this life January 24, 1951.  From that day until the day he deceased, he mourned for her.  He steadfastly refused to leave the old home, although he had been partly blind for 15 years and was not able to work.  His grandson Manford Boyd stayed with him until his death.  He was good to his grandfather them to keep house, Brother John spent a sad sick and lonely life the last days of his life. Brother John joined the Old Regular Baptist Church, the old New Salem, Harold, Kentucky, first Saturday in June 1921 and was baptized with his son Alex at the mouth of Boyd Branch, by Elder John M. Akers.  He leaves to mourn his absence, nine children living, six boys and three girls as follows; Alex, Cam, Mark, Glodia, Johnnie Kelly, Ola, Rena, and Minrey, one son Manuel who was killed in the mines February 27, 1950, also two infants deceased very young.  One brother, Cam Boyd of Betsy Layne, Kentucky and his Brothers and Sisters in the church and many friends to mourn his passing away.  His dear son Cam professed a hope in the Lord, and joined the old Salem church of Old Regular Baptist and is walking the road of faith, his dear old dad and mother walked, I often visited him and talk with him.  When I saw he was approaching near his departure of this life, I had a desire to talk with him, so I said Brother John I would love to ask you some questions, will you answer them, and he said yes so he gave me directions as to how he wanted to be buried, where and who he wanted to preach his funeral.  And I said Brother John you think serious on this question before you answer it?  Do you know when you depart this life that you are going to rest?  He partly turned his head from me and groaned.  Then he turned back and said I have prayed these many years to know, I will have to say no.  But I feel now if the good Lord would call me now I would go to rest, I have only had a hope.  May the good Lord bless his children who stood by him in his sickness.  May they live in peace with each other and remember the good counsel of that sainted old father and mother of there's and do there as they see it.  Written by one who loved them, and their children in hope.  W. L. Akers.        

Boyd, Sister Lizzie Akers ~ It is with a sad and unworthy feeling that I will try to write a short obituary of Sister Lizzie Akers Boyd. The daughter of Andy and Maud Akers, deceased, she was born February 2, 1894.  Deceased this life May 12, 1954 at the age of 60 years, three months and 10 days.  She was united in married to Andy Boyd, May 28, 1914 and unto this union were born four children, three boys and one girl.  One boy proceeded her in death while in infancy.  Leaving two boys and one girl Kelly and Kessie Boyd, of Boyd County and Mrs. Ermin Smiley, of Deroit, and a very sad and lonely companion to mourn her loss.  She also leaves for brothers and two sisters, Burley, Willie, Kessie, Elmond, Mrs. Sol Salmons, Mrs. Camm Boyd, and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her absence. Sister Lizzie joined the New Salem Church of Old Regular Baptists, September 1, 1920 and was baptized by Brother Joe Martin.  Sister Lizzie lived an humble and faithful Christian life until death. She was a faithful companion and a dear tender mother to her children.  She was loved by all of her neighbors.  She is missed by her brothers and sisters in the church.  Although she was deprived on account of bad health for several years of attending her church.  Sister Lizzie suffered a stroke in August, 1953, but she recovered to where she could walk again, but she was badly affected with high blood and enlarged heart.  She bore her affliction so patiently.  Truly, as the old song says, “Affliction, O, they seem severe in mercy oft are sent”. I believe that on Wednesday morning of about five o'clock, May 12, 1954 God saw that she had suffered enough and sent a convoy of bright shining Angels down and carried her blessed spirit home.  There to wait the redemption of her body with shall be changed and fashioned like Christ’s own glorious body.  So Brother Andy I know your home is a lonely place without your dear companion there with you, but I feel that she is now enjoying a beautiful home.  One that I sometimes long to go to, and I feel like that you have that hope that you will meet her again and I feel like that hope will be more brighter if you would just follow our blessed Lord all the way. And, to you dear children of Sister Lizzie, be good to your daddy as he has been so good to you.  And, think of the good counsel that dear mamma gave you so much. So, dear Andy may God bless you and be with you in your afflictions and sad and lonely hours. Her funeral is being preached third Saturday and Sunday in August by Brother George Parrigan, Johnnie Hall and Brother Liney Boyd. Brethren, pray that God will bless us through this to days meeting, and may it all be done in to the honor and glory of God.
Written by her unworthy brother in law and brother I hope, Allen W. Akers. 

Boyd, Mary Moles ~   She was the daughter of Matt and Gensie Stover Moles.  She was born August 11, 1866, and departed this life March 24, 1954 at 12:15 P.M. at the ripe old age of 87 years, seven months and 13 days.  She was united in marriage to Lincy Boyd Sr., August 15, 1883 and unto this union were born 13 children, six boys and seven girls.  Four of her children three boys and one girl died when young, then, she gave up her blessed companion, September 27, 1927 leaving her like the lonesome dove mourning the loss of her absent mate.  But we feel at 12:15 Wednesday evening her blest hope that she talked so much and rejoice in, ceased and a convoy of bright shining Angels conveyed the blessed part that was born again to the paradise of God.  There with her blessed companion to wait the redemption of their bodies.  The part that the children loved so well, the part that you blessed children have been here with you today.  Children, this part you love so dear.  It was weak, it was corrupt, but when God calls for the sleeping dust, children it won't be week, but it will be strong, and it will be incorruptible, a glorified body.  Children the suffering that she has done here is not to be compared to the glory that she has now.  She professed a hope and joined the New Salem Church of the Regular Baptist, and was baptized by old Brother Bill Layne, the first Saturday in August 1881, and then in May 1919 she went to the New Life Church of United Baptist by recommendation, and she has lived a faithful and obedient Christian life lo these 63 years, never a question against her. Children she has let her light shine as He has commanded her.  Children bless your sad hearts, let's try as much as there is in us to just let our light shine.  I trust that God will help us to live peacefully and love one another as our blessed Savior said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples if ye have love one for the other”, and again “He that loveth is born of God”.  Bless her sweet soul; I feel that this is the love that she could feel just floating in her room when she was clapping those feeble hands and praising her blessed Redeemer.  Children, I believe that she, the real mother, is now resting in that blessed home that she said God's showed her and I believe this was the home that she was wanting when she was begging us so hard to take her back home and she would say, “I know that Allen will take me back home when he comes”.  Bless her sweet soul.  In all these 22 years that she lived in our home, she never said one ill word to me.  Ma started making her home with us in November 1931.  Though our home is poor in the world’s goods, sometimes when God removes the clouds of doubt I feel that we have a rich home.  A home not made with hands eternally in heaven and I feel that it won't be long until we shall crossover.  Like Ma said Wednesday, “I am now crossing over, I see Jesus coming”.  Bless her sweet soul.  Children let us beg God to let us have as strong a faith when we have to lay down the walks of this life.  Children I could write on and on about her life, but I feel that all neighbors know how her light did shine.  She leaves nine children to mourn her absence, three boys and six girls, Neve Conn, Nannie Conn, Martha Hall, Creeda Boyd, and Bennie Boyd.  She leaves 50 grandchildren 133 great grandchildren and 30 great great grandchildren, and one brother, Ben Molds of Betsy Layne, Kentucky and a host of Brethren and Sisters, relatives and friends.  She has picked the following ministers to preach her funeral, Elder Johnny King, Johnny Hall, Luther Conn, and her three blessed grandsons, Bertee Conn, Willie L. Conn, and Liney Boyd.  May the God of all Grace give them a mind and strength to fill her request and may God overshadow each one of them to preach the blessed truth as it is in Christ Jesus the Lord.  Children let us pray.  God being our helper, that love may abound throughout the remainder of the time that her blessed body is here with us.   The ministers that filled her request were Elder Willie L. Conn read the obituary, Elder Liney L. Boyd opened and led in prayer, Elder Johnny King followed the opening, Elder Johnny P. Hall preached and closed.  I feel that they were all wonderfully blessed.  Children pray for me when God blesses you to pray.
Written by her weak and unworthy son-in-law, Allen W. Akers.

Boyd, Serrilda Smith ~  It is by the request of the family, and with an unworthy feeling, I will try, by the help of the family, and the assistance of brother Lindy Boyd, and I trust by God's divine guidance, to write a short obituary of a dear neighbor, and I feel a Sister in the Lord. To wit, Serrilda Smith Boyd.  The daughter of Jurden and Mary Smith, deceased.  She was born, July 27, 1880, and departed this life March 26, 1955, making her stay on Earth, 74 years, seven months and 29 days.  She leaves a dear lonely and sad companion, five children, two wit; Denzel Boyd, of Harold, Kentucky, Mrs. Okie Conn, Mrs. Mary Akers, of Dana, Kentucky, Audra Boyd, at home, also of Dana, Kentucky.  Mrs. Hie Click of Martin, Kentucky, 14 grandchildren, one great grandchild, three brothers, and four sisters.  To wit: Brent Smith, Prestonsburg, Kentucky, Thomas Smith, Vicco, Kentucky, Alex Smith, Kodak, Kentucky, Tilda Mullins, Vicco, Kentucky, Barbara Combs, Sassafras, Kentucky, Sarah Frasure, Premium, Kentucky, and Mary Smith, Kodak, Kentucky.  She also leaves a host of relatives, friends and neighbors to mourn her absence. She united in marriage to Brother Noah Boyd, May 19, 1904, and unto this union were born seven children.  Three boys and four girls, one boy and one girl preceded her in death while in infancy.  She was affected with asthma and other in infirmities, for several years, which deprived her of visiting her neighbors, and going to church as she would have love to.  On account of her very bad illness, she was moved to her daughters, Mrs. Okie Conn, December 27, and remained there until God saw fit to call her away.  She called for brother Liney Boyd, to come and hold prayer for her one Sunday evening, March 7, when we got there, and she was very bad, but she wanted brother Liney to hold prayer, and after we sang a few verses of a song, Brother Liney prayed a very able and humble prayer.  After prayer, she seemed to ease down, and wanted them to turn her on her side, something she had not done for two or three weeks, and soon dozed off to sleep.  But when she was awake, she was continually praying for God to have mercy on her, until the 10th of March, about four o'clock in the morning, she called her sister Tilda, and said “Tilda pray for me”.  Tilda said, “we are praying for you.  You must pray to”.  She said “I am”.  Then she turned over and groaned.  And Tilda said, “what do you want”?  She said, “I want a pardon for the first thing”.  Then she called her dear companion and children and said, “children be good and meet me again”.  Then to her loving mate, she said, “Noah, cheer up, we cannot stay here together always; it won't be long until we can be together again”.  Then she said to Audra, “Audra you have been so good to me, I want to meet you again”.  She asked her sister Tilda and brother Liney, if they could hear that pretty singing, she said she could hear the prettiest siinging.  She would reach out her hand like she was reaching for something and Mary would say, “Moma, what are you reaching for”?  And she said, “She saw her babies that had gone on”.  Children you still have and mother here with you, that you love so well, but I feel that the real mother, the one that you children could not see him take her departure so early last night, is with them blessed little infants today, just waiting, waiting, for Gabriel’s trumpet to sound in that mourn.    The remainder of her suffering she bore so patiently, it seemed that she hardly suffered too much more.  And when the death Angel came, she just seemed to fall asleep.  Her dear companion and her children were all by when the end came.  Brother Noah and the children were so faithful and patient in waiting on her and trying to fulfill all her wants and needs.   Brother Noah, you have lost a dear and faithful companion, and you children, you have lost a kind tender mother.  She always was kind and cheerful to all she met, and she was loved by all her neighbors, and all who knew her. She was a strong believer in the Regular Baptist, her desires were to attend church, but her affliction was such for the last several years, she was deprived of going to church as she would have love to.  She was always faithful in seeing that Brother Noah was fixed to go to church.  Brother Noah, may God bless and comfort you in your lonely hours.  Just try to cheer up.  I feel that you have that blessed hope that you will meet that dear companion again, with all the blood washed band. And the children, I feel if you see your dear mother again, it will be in a better world than this, and that by the mercies of God.  Children be good to and love each other as your dear mother would want you to do, and more ever, don't forget your dear daddy, I feel that he has lived a life that is worthy and safe for you children who pattern after.  And a word to Okie, and Sister Jona; May God bless both of you for taking your dear mother and father in to help care for them.  And to the rest of the children that have been so faithful in helping to take care of your mother, you all have my deepest sympathy, and may God bless you all.  Written by Allen W. Akers.                  

Case, Pollie Jane ~ It and is with much sadness of heart I attempt to write an obituary of our dear mother, Pollie Jane Case. She was the daughter of Pricie Dameron.  She was born December 12, 1875.  She departed this life December 27, 1954, making her stay 79 years and 15 days old. She was united in marriage to J. M. Case, April 8, 1895.  Unto this union was born 11 children, 5 boys and 6 girls.  Three girls proceeded her in death.  Leaving eight children, her husband, one brother and one sister to mourn her loss, but we believe our loss is her eternal gain.  She joined the Old Regular Baptist Church, July 10, 1911.  She lived a good Christian life and filled her seat as long as she was able, she was in ill health for many years.  She was pass walking for eight years, but she bore his sickness with great patience.  She loved a place that she could call home.  Her dad kept house as long as he could.  Dear dad did all he could to take care of mother.  He toiled day and night to answer every call.  But with all we could do, at 6:30 PM when the death Angel came for her, we had to stand back and see her go.  She said all she dreaded was the sting of death.  She would pray that when she had to go and she would just fall asleep.  She did go easy.  She would always say she hope the Lord would let her live until all her children got a home of their own, and she was blessed to see that done and stay some with them all.  She lived to see all the girls joined the church.  I want to say to you boys you know you had a praying mother.  She prayed for you to do better and for the good Lord to take care of you children.  I have seen her shed tears when you would start to leave and say Lord, go with them on their way and bring them back to me again.  Boys mom is gone and can never come back again to live with us anymore, but by the help of the good Lord we can go to her to live for evermore, were there will be no more partying nor sorrows to come.  It is lonesome here for dad and us children with mom gone.  Let us live for the Lord and go to that good home He had prepared for all that love and serve him.  Where we feel mother is today.  I was sitting by her bedside two weeks before she passed on, she said some one ought to be writing and I said what, she said about me.  I told her we would and she said it will make a big book.  It sure would if I had space to write all the good things about her.  She is so fresh in my memory today.  I want to say a word about preacher Huff.  Mom thought so much of him.  She called him her preacher.  He visited her every day and held prayer with her.  She called it her meeting and would say after prayer she felt a lot better. This obituary is too lengthy, so Dad and children, may the blessings of the good Lord be with us and try and meet mom again to live forever.   Written by Lizzie Hall.

Coburn,  Elder Alec ~  Elder Alec Colburn, son of Joe Colburn and Mary Colburn, was born September 18, 1886. At the age of 19 he was married to Sally Ann Prater.   Unto this union were born 12 children: seven of these died in infancy and one son, Edgel, deceased about the age of 19.  Five children, two boys Curly and Paul and two girls, Dollie and Pansy are still living.  Besides his dear faithful wife and five children he leaves two brothers, Fred and Ballard, and two sisters Liza and Polly, to mourn his demise, which took place in the hospital at Paintsville at 10:30 PM, May 23, 1955, at the age of 68 years, three months and 25 days.  Not often in the course of life are we called upon to chronicle the life of a minister of the gospel, whose devotion to the moral and spiritual uplift of the people was truly great as was his.  His love and sympathy for the people in out-of-the-way places, and communities hard to reach, was so strong and he never turn down a call, when he was able, to visit the sick and dying, to sing and pray and preach for them and to preach funerals.  He went with his heart aflame with love and zeal with the cause of righteousness.  Sometimes he walked long distances, at other times on horseback for 30 or 35 years over icy roads, up frozen Creek's, through snow, then again through high waters, in the rain and in the heat of summer to many places others seemed to shun.  This he did without price or hope of reward in this world.   In diligent service in the Gospel ministry of our Lord, his singing had the ring of eternity, his prayers were tender, deep, and fervent, and often his delivery when preaching, seemed to belie the fact that he was uneducated.  Like other good men-men of God-he had faults, but his faults were mole hills when compared to the mountain peaks of his Christian integrity.  He was dearly loved by the Regular Baptist Brethren and Sisters, also, by neighbors of other faiths, by the boys and girls to whom he was so kind.  He will be greatly missed.  His body went to sleep in the night, but his spirit hearing the invitation, “come ye blessed of my father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world”, and took its flight into eternal light with shouts of: “Palms of victory and crowns of glory I shall wear”.  Sleep on, dear Brother, sleep on.  The night will soon pass, then eternal day will dawn.  His funeral will be preached third Saturday and Sunday in June 1956.  Written by W. S. Akers.

Collins, Brother C. L. "Casell"  ~   With sadness of heart we write this obituary of a dear husband and father, C. L.  (Casell) Collins.  He was born March 28, 1876 and departed this life March 10, 1955.  He was 78 years, 11 months and 10 days old.  He was married to Judy Howell on March 29, 1901 and lived a peaceful married life for 54 years.  To this union were born 12 children, eight sons and four daughters.  One son, Lawrence one daughter Myrtle, proceeded he him in death.   Left to mourn the loss of a kind and loving father are seven sons and three daughters: Ted, of Minnie, Kentucky; Tilden, of Drift, Kentucky; Noah, Preston and Edward, all of Printer, Kentucky; John and Clinton, both Ashtabula, Ohio; Vernie Messenger, of Jump, Kentucky; Mary Daniels, of Trenton, Michigan, and Arietta Collins, of Detroit, Michigan.  And also surviving are a brother, Riley Collins of Amba, Kentucky, and a sister, Mrs. Mandy Moore, of Wayland, Kentucky.  Brother Casell joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on August 20, 1938 and was baptized by Elder E. H. Howard and Aaron Pack.  He lived a good Christian life until the death Angel called him.  He attended church regularly and loved to hear good preaching and singing.  Casell was kind to everyone and his door was always open to all his neighbors.  He loved for them to come and eat with him at his table.  We miss him so very much but if we will only live the life our blessed Savior would have us live, we can be with him again where there will be no more sorrow or parting.   Now children, let's try not to mourn too much over the loss of our loved one, for I feel sure he is at rest with Jesus and I am trusting the Lord to help us bear our burden and to comfort me in my sad and lonely hours, until I can be with him again in our eternal home where there are no more heartaches or suffering.   
Written by his sad and lonely wife, Judy, and the children.

Compton, Stella ~ I am writing a short sketch of obituary of my dear mother, Stella Compton, who passed away about two years ago.  She is sleeping for little space of time waiting for Jesus to come.  She was sick for about eight long weeks, she had a stroke.  She took her bed on the 24th day of August and died on the 23rd day of October.  Mother joined the Old Regular Baptist in her early days and lived in it for almost 50 years, and mother tried to fill her seat most all she could, and she loved to go to church and meet her good sisters and brothers and talk with them.  I know she bore her cross and now has exchanged it for a crown.  She was loved by all who knew her.  She liked to go see the sick and tried to do all she could for them and we will all miss her, Oh, so much at home.  She was the daughter of Linda and Buck Compton and was married to James M. Compton about 50 years ago.  To them was born 13 children, two boys and 11 girls.  12 are still living.  One died when born and went to live with Jesus and also mother and a lot of other Angels.  Oh, how we do miss mamma at home, and at church, but I feel our mamma is with us in spirit, guiding us along and we all can be with mother again is all fallout with sin.  I will meet her some day as I have followed her to the Old Regular Baptist Church and will live with her in that heavenly home that Jesus has prepared for all that love and serve him.  Mother was born November 5, 1887.  She was 67 years of age when she went to live in that heavenly home.  She left a host of grandchildren, three sisters and three brothers to mourn her loss to us and loss of a friend.  Mother was the flower of our home, it is so lonely without her but Jesus loved her best and let us keep her till He called her and took her home.  She went like going to sleep.  Oh I could write many things about mother, but Jesus knows all things and I make closing hoping to meet mother again some day. Written by her daughter's Betty Conley, and Opal Ramsey. 

Derossett, Victory Gray ~ It is with sadness, I write an obituary of a dear mother and sister two-wit, Victory Gray Derossett.  She was born in 1864 and was the daughter of Joe Gray and Elizabeth Salmons Gray.  She deceased this life February 4, 1955.  She was married to James Derossett in the year of 1881.  To this union was born eight boys, two died in infancy, two died when grown, four, left to mourn the loss of mother.  She had 61 grandchildren, and 110 great grandchildren and a host of friends and relatives to mourn her loss. Her husband preceded her in death.  She was a member of the Bull Creek Church of Regular Baptist for 50 years or more.  The church has lost one of his best members and the children have lost their best friend.  She filled her seat as long as she was able.  She talked of her pretty home up yonder, when she went to leave us.  So we miss her sweet voice.  She would come in laughing when she come to see us. Role by her son, Frank Derossett. 

Everage, Maggie ~  Sister Maggie Everage, wife of Balis Everage, was born June 28, 1895, deceased this life February 14, 1955.  She was 59 years, four months and 14 days old when she died.  She was the daughter of Charlie and Maranda Perkins, leaving to mourn her loss, 5 brothers, one sister and six children, and her companion.  She also left a mighty host of friends to mourn her loss.   Sister Maggie professed a hope in Christ the first Sunday in August 1950 and took Fellowship with the Old Regular Baptist Church with her companion and in time in the establishment of a little church on Montgomery Creek.  It was named in honor of Sister Maggie.  The writer feels deeply that Sister Maggie was a true mother of Israel and lived a fine devoted an upright Christian life before her children and her neighbors.  There is not a doubt in my mind as to the rest of sister Everage because she left a wonderful testimony and bore the fruits that Christ spoke about his people bearing to those that are left that have not made peace with God.  If you want to live with Jesus and where mother is, make peace with God here in this present world, because this is only a place to make ready for the second coming of Jesus, because he has left his promise that he is coming after all that look for his second coming and to them shall he appeared the second time without sin unto salvation.  Her request for preachers was: Brother Harrison Williams, Brother Burton Howard, Dan Gibson and Earl Howard.   Sister Maggie was buried in the family cemetery adjoining the Little Maggie Memorial Church.
Written by Elder Burton Howard. 

Hall, Ann Polly ~ She was the daughter of Bud and Lettie Polly.  She was born March 28, 1898 and deceased August 10, 1955.  Ann in early life, in the year of December 12, 1912, was married to Sonnie Hall.  To this union was born 11 children, five boys and six girls, Arthur, Bill, Richard, David and Paul.  The boys David and Paul proceeded her in death.  The girls, Lettie, Essie, Rofie, Elene, Ruth and Ruby.  Lettie preceded her in death in infancy, and Elene in November 1951.Ann was a devoted mother and loved her family.  She was a fine neighbor and liked to go to church although she never did attach itself to the church.  She was a believer in God and had her faith as Old Regular Baptist in her life.  She told me once of the experience she had with the Lord and how she felt at times.We trust that in the passing of the Mother that it will have a bearing on the rest of the family.  If there is one that has not made peace with God.  We feel that in this life we should prepared to meet God in peace and see mother again.Ann leaves seven children, her husband Sonnie and nineteen grandchildren, several relatives and a large host of friends to mourn her death her memorial will be preached 4th Saturday and Sunday in July, 1956 with the rest of the family with Elders E. V. Hopkins, George Higgans, Baxter Osborne, Burton Howard and others.Written by Elder Burton Howard. 

Gibson, Audrey ~  It is with much sadness and a aching heart, that I try to write this obituary of my dearly beloved wife; to wit, Audrey Brewer Gibson, who was born November 1, 1924 and deceased is life may 20, 1955. She made her stay on Earth 30 short years, six months 19 days.  She was the daughter of Oscar Brewer and Lou Sturgill Brewer, of Pigeon, Kentucky. She was united in holy matrimony to Irwin Gibson on Nov. 28, 1947, and unto this union was born four children: Larry Reed, age 7; James Louis, age 4; Ralph Webb, age 1; and Glema Lou age 1. She joined the Island Creek Old Regular Baptist Church the third Saturday in August, 1950 was baptized the same day by Elders Jack Thomas, and Jeff May.  She leaves a host of friends and neighbors besides her lonesome and heartbroken husband and children to mourn our loss.  She leaves two brothers and one sister and her mother and father to live here without her, but I am sure that our loss is a great gain in heaven.  Yes we all miss that loving wife of mine for she loved everyone and was so kind and generous to all her friends and neighbors.  She loved all her brothers and sisters in the church and greeted them all with a smile and with love, anytime, anywhere she met them, for the Bible says he that is born of God is born of love; for God is love and he that loveth his brother abideth in the light and there is none occasion of stumbling in him.  God bless her soul today!  Audrey loved and talked about the Bible and about her Savior and what good things he had done for her.  I believe her soul is preserved today just waiting until the coming of Jesus Christ, when both soul and body will be joined back together and made like unto his glorious body to live with him forever in glory.  The Bible says that God preservers the souls of his saints and I feel sure today that she is one of God's Saints.  While she was here, she was a loving wife to me and we loved one another so much.  She was a good mother to her children!  Yes, she loved all little children and it pleased her to talk with them.  I heard her pray many times to God that He might let her live to raise our children before he took her.  I heard her praying at night when she thought the children and I were asleep and she would raise out of her bed shouting and praising her Savior saying she couldn’t lay still because she felt his spirit overwhelming her heart.  So I'm not worried about her soul, and I'm looking forward to the day when I can meet the mother of my children again in the place where their will be no more sorrow, no pain and no death.  I lost a good wife and my children have lost their friend.  I want to say to her two brothers and her sister and also her daddy whom she loved so much, that if they expect to see Audrey again, they will have to be born again and have their sins taken away by the blood of Jesus Christ.  Yes, Oscar, Audrey loved you and wanted you to live a good life.  She talked about you to me and how she would be happy if she could see you come to the church as her brother in the Lord.  I believe her dear old mother will see her again where she will be happy forever.   So may God bless both Oscar and Lou, and their family and be with me and my children.   Written by Irwin Gibson.

Hall, Della Wise ~   With a feeling of sadness, I now make this effort to write an obituary of my dear mother to-wit: Della Wise Hall.  She was the daughter of the late Elder W. B. Mullins and Alva Mullins.  She was born November 28, 1885; deceased March 3, 1955. Making her stay here on Earth 69 years, three months and five days.  She was married to F. A. Hall in August 1889, and unto this union were born 10 children of which three preceeded her in death, Tilden, Canzella and Samantha.   Mother, leaves to mourn her loss, a loving husband, four boys; Bert, Tivis, Orben and Virgil; and three daughters, Loretta Smith, Minta Wray, and Miona Bates.  Twenty five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.  Son-in-law's, daughter-in-law, two whole sisters, one half sister and five half brothers, also a large host of other dear relatives and friends and brethren and sisters of the Old Regular Baptist Church.  Mother joined the Province Church of Old Regular Baptist in August 1928, and I believe with all my heart, she lived a faithful Christian life, until the Lord called her home.   Mother enjoyed filling her seat in the old church as long as she was able.  She was taken sick in August 1951; and all who visited her during her sickness, can truthfully say, they never saw anyone who bore their sickness with as much patience as my dear mother.  She had a smile for everyone who came to visit her and would always give them a handshake welcoming them into her home.  She didn't want to be any trouble.  Momma loved her children.  About eight months before she passed away she had a bad sick spell and had all her children called home.  Virgil was working in Michigan, he quit his job and came home to help take care of her.  All the children were good to mother.  All the children are married except Virgil and I have heard momma say; “children I want you to be good to Virgil”.
Most all who visited us during mother's sickness made the remark that they never saw a family as painstaking and so loving to a sick person as we all were to our mother. I want to say to the portion of all the family who have not professed a hope, her counsel was “Be Faithful”, and to them who have not professed a hope and have not forsaken sin and accepted Christ as their Savior, will you now began to seek Him and remember the Council of mother and try to get ready to meet the Lord in peace before it is too late. I wish to say to all who has a mother still living.  Be good to her, for you know nothing about the loss of a dear mother until she is gone.  I want to say to Dad, who momma loved so well and who was so good to wait on mother, not only during her sickness but was good to her all during their married life.  Pray on and trust in God and remember that Saturday evening in February, when she called us to her bed and said: “I'm going to die.  I have a better home on high.  I want you all to meet me”.  She asked us not to worry over her; and fighting back tears from my eyes I couldn't speak, she said it again and I said, “mom we will do our best”. So in closing this obituary, I believe momma is at rest with all the family that has passed on out of this world and is just waiting for the sound of the trumpet of the Lord, when he shall come to awakened all the dead.  Then we can all see and meet mother again, if we will all trust in the Lord with all our hearts.Mother’s funeral will be preached the last Saturday in June and first Sunday in July, 1956. Written by Mrs. Dallas Wray.

Hall, Frank P. ~  “Lord, I'm coming home”.  With these last words falling from the lips of my sainted father, Frank P. Hall, went peacefully to sleep to remain unawakened until the last day when the call of the celestial trumpet shall summons him forth to meet the Savior whom he served so faithfully and devotedly during the last six years of his life. Father was born January 14, 1893, the son of G. W. Hall and Rhoda Johnson Hall, his father and mother having proceed him in death many years ago. During the early morning of July 9, 1955, at the age of 62 years, five months and 25 days, he swiftly and without previous warning, exchanged his Earth home for one which will stand eternal beyond the distant stars. On July 2, 1914, he was united in holy bonds of matrimony with Frankie Tackett, daughter of Jay and Sarah Tackett.  Unto this union were born twin sons Julius Caesar Hall and Tulius Cicero Hall, the latter proceeded he him in death in infancy; a daughter, Kelsie P. Hall McElroy; twin daughters, Ola May Hall Dameron and Ora Fay Hall, each of whom survived their beloved father.  He also leaves behind him a lonely and heartbroken wife to mourn the passing of the most cherished person from her life, together with two brothers, six sisters and six grandchildren. Father joined the Joppa church of Old Regular Baptist the first Sunday in May, 1949, and was baptized the first Sunday in June, 1949, by Elders Jerry Hall and Troy Nichols.  I will long remember the day he was baptized.  As he came out of the water I noticed the consecrated expression upon his transfigured face.  His eyes seem not to focus upon the earthly mortals around him, but he seemed to be looking far beyond this sphere of reality into a higher realm. From the service he administered Joppa church and the New Salem Association, and his complete, faithful and untiring dedication there to, I truly believe he was responding to instructions given by the Master’s voice, and today I feel that he has taken a place reserved for him close to the celestial throne as one of the loyal servants of his creator. Father was elected assistant clerk of the New Salem Association on Friday before the fourth Saturday and Sunday in September, 1950.  He was elected clerk of the said Association the following September, 1951, which office he faithfully and ably filled until his death.  His home church and the New Salem Association will never forget him, and I am sure his presence will forever feel near. His quiet, unassuming and humble manner endeared him to all who knew him and these qualities revealed the real characteristics of a true and believing Christian.  He loved his Bible and be displayed them all around the home place.  I was told that one of his favorite Bibles he kept handy for reference was found lying beneath his head as he was leaving us.  After his death some manuscripts were found among his papers which indicated that he was preparing a book entitled “Knowledge of Salvation”.  It is unfortunate that this beautiful writing was not completed so that its publication could have been made for all good Christians to read and studied. Father had a remarkable insight to humanity, all its good qualities, all its evils.  One of the great symbols of his belief in that there was a little of something good in each and every individual, whether he be a Christian or sinner, was proven by his tolerance and ability to withhold any critical comment that might be offensive to anyone.  He was a kind and gentle heart; any word spoken was with forethought and consideration, but when he spoke he was attentively heard.  I feel the accord with which he worked within his church will bear out what I have said. He loved his family and his home, and tried by every word and deed to make himself an untarnished example of for his children to follow.  He was a loving husband and a faithful one. Mother remember this, your eyes and heart are blinded by sorrow and you are unable to see beyond your own grief.  The strangeness of death has taken our loved one and has given no explanation, but we know as surely as we know that he is a merciful God; that there is an exclamation and someday we will be able to understand.  Father has left with us a loving, and unforgettable memory that should help us to bear this great loss.  Let us be reconciled that even though he has passed beyond the Valley of the shadows, he is waiting for us.  I believe that his unswerving belief in “a more abundant life” in the hereafter will reach across the span of death to us, who remain living, and will beckon us down the right highway, on into the shadow and across the Valley and there beyond he will clasp our hands together and lead us forward, then we shall joyously exclaim, as he did as he was passing from this life to a more abundant one, “Lord We’re Coming Home”. Written by Kelsie P. Hall McElroy. 

Hall, Willie K. ~  By request of relatives, I will try to write a sketch of the life of our beloved brother, to wit: Willie K. Hall.  He was born at Kite, Kentucky in Knott County, July 6, 1879, and departed from this life June 24, 1955, age 75 years, 11 months and 12 days old.  He was married to Mary Meade on July 9, 1908, who preceded him in death in February, 1912.  The exact date of her death is not known.  Then on June 10, 1926, he was married to Sister Nancy N. Brown and it is known to me that he lived a true and faithful companion-like life until God called Brother Will home.   Brother Will leaves to mourn his loss, his bereaved companion and three children and one stepdaughter, to wit: Omery Hall, Gladys Newman, (Elmer) Carlos C. Hall, and Nannie Martin, stepdaughter, all of Hi Hat, Kentucky.  Besides his relatives and many close friends, Brother Willie was loved by all who knew him throughout the country. Brother Will joined the Little Nancy Church of Old Regular Baptists on June 26, 1954, and was baptized on that same day by Elders Malcolm Wright and Mac McCloud.  He desired his Fellowship with the Little Nancy Church were Sister Nancy had been a member since the organization of the church in 1935.  Brother Will lived a good Christian life for many years before he came to the church.  We feel that he did live a good life because we read in God's word where He said “By their fruits ye shall know them”, James; 1:27 says, “Pure Religion and undefiled before God the father and the Father is this to visit the fatherless and widows in their afflictions and keep yourself unspotted from the world”, which is another witness that brother Will Hall has passed from death into life.  We know that he was always good to visit the sick far and near and did what he could to relieve those who were in need.  His door was always open and his table was always set to take care of the church members and to feed the Saints and sinners alike.  There are just so many more good things that I could say about Brother Will.   To Gladys, I thank I can speak the minds of the church: we were all so glad to see you come to the church and become a member.  But if it could have happened before Brother Will left this world, he would have been most happy.  To all the other children who have not made peace with the Lord and professed a hope in Christ: if you want to see your father again you will have to close in with the offered mercy's of God before it is too late, because this world is only a dressing room for a better world to come.  “As a tree falls so shall it lie”.  We believe that when the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the art Angel and with the Trump of God and the dead in Christ shall rise first, that Brother Will Hall will be in that number.  His spirit which has been in paradise will return to his sleeping dust and the same body will come out of the grave a spiritual one and be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.  And so shall we ever be with the Lord.  So the Little Nancy Church has lost a faithful member; his companion has lost a loving husband; his children have lost a good father.    
God in his wisdom has recalled, A voice we love is stilled; A place is vacant in our home, Which never can be filled.
Brother Will’s funeral will be preached the fourth Saturday and Sunday in June, 1956, at the Little Nancy Church house, with Elders Jerry Hall, Frank Hopkins, E. V. Hopkins, Malcolm Wright, Banner Manns, Mac McCloud, and Joe Jones. Written by your unworthy Brother, L. G. Frasure.

Hamilton, Harvey ~ It is with a sad heart, that I will try to write a short obituary of brother Harvey Hamilton.  He was a son of Brother Harve Hamilton, Sister Vick McCown.  He was married to Judy Bell Hall.  To this union was born nine children.  Two children and his wife proceed  him in death, leaving three boys and four girls to mourn his loss.  Brother Harvey was about 63 years old.  Deceased January 29, 1955, after he had been sick for a long time.  They said he suffered from asthma.  He joined Samaria Church, Regular Baptist in September 12, 1923. So children, father and mother can’t come back anymore.  Left you orphans in this sinful world.  So children, be good to one another, remember father.  Try meet him in heaven.  God loves you.  He gave His son into world whosoever would believe upon him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.  This life in Jesus, if you believed in Him.  I feel you can meet father and mother where there won't be any more dying, nor heartaches, no more crying, all tears will be wiped away.  So children get ready in this life. Written by a brother hope, Butler Howell.

Hicks, Mima ~ Mima Hicks, daughter of Bill and Nancy Fraser, was born December 25, 1887. The whom she was married to W.  And on.  Bill Hicks at the age of 28 and 1915, and became a loving stepmother to Ellen, Ezra, Annis and Floyd.  The old young in the age she never failed in her love, devotion and care for those motherless children.  She also became the mother of seven children: Edgar, Willie, LC, Burness, Edna, Ousley, and Margie.  She was and duster yes, working diligently with her hands, ever mindful of the responsibilities of motherhood and Christian duties.   While a young woman, she joined the Bethel Regular Baptist Church, relating an experience of grace and was baptized by Elder George Allen and live true to Christian duties until her passing into, as we believe, the eternal glories which took place, February 22, 1955, to take her place among the Godly women of old, whose names are recorded in the Scriptures and in the lamb's book of life.  What a thrill-and, what a joy to be in a spirits land in the company of Sarah, Abraham's wife, Rebecca, Rachel, Naoma, Ruth, Elizabeth, Mary the Mother of Jesus, and all the great multitude of such good women that are part of the innumerable company which the apostle John was permitted to behold while in the Isle of Patmos, and the in the spirit of the Lord's day.   With her duties ended in this life and her afflictions and sorrow all passed, we feel to say rest on good wife, rest on good mother, rest on good Sister, the company you are in is far more excellent than ours.  Your life and joys are eternal and complete in the Lord Jesus Christ and through him your lifeless body will be raised from the grave in the Father's on good time.
May God bless her stepchildren with her on dear children. Humbly written by a Willard S. Akers. 

Johnson, Elder Bud ~  It is with sadness that I try to write an obituary of my dear father to wit; Elder Bud Johnson.  He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church, May 13, 1923.  He was born January 7, 1888, the deceased this life January 10, 1955, at the age of 67 years, four months and 15 days.  He was a minister of the gospel for 35 years, and always preached sound doctrine.  He loved and preached the doctrine of salvation by grace and lived faithful until death. Father was married October 29, 1906, and 13 children born unto his home.  Seven boys and six girls.  Four boys and two girls are still living and now mourn the loss of a kind and loving father and mother.   Father 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 Joppa Church, where his membership was.  We deeply feel that our loss is his eternal gain.  I believe when he went down through the Valley in the shadows, there is no doubt in my mind that 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 the sweet eternity were all of the Saints shall rise and awake in his likeness and then we will all be satisfied when we, with dad and mother, will be awakened by the trumpet of God and we will meet him in the clouds of his glory and go singing our home where sorrow and troubles will vanish for evermore.  I want to say to Effie May, the daughter, that God will bless her in this world for the way she ministered unto their needs. Martha remember what dad said when he called you to his bedside, “don't worry over me, prepared to meet me in heaven”.   “If you ever want to see how it looks in heaven, you must be born again”.    Written by Bill Johnson.

Johnson, Buddy ~ With sadness of heart I will try to write this obituary of my loving uncle Buddy Johnson, who was born July 8, 1877.  Died October 17, 1954. He was the son of Harvey Johnson and Louisa Johnson of Melvin, Kentucky, who proceeded him in death several years ago.  He was married to Ida Smallwood.  To this union were born the following children: Frank Johnson, Detroit, Michigan; Mrs. Joe Childers, Lexington, Kentucky; Mrs. Cora Hatfield, New Jersey; and Laura Johnson, Bevinsville, Kentucky.  He is also survived by several grandchildren. He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church at Melvin, Kentucky.  He called for services several times before he died.  He was so happy he sent for Brother Charlie Jones to tell him what great things the Lord had done for him. We believe that his soul is resting in Jesus, and in the morning of the resurrection, his body will come forth out of the grave, purified and changed and made like the body of our Lord in soul and body reunited and gone to heaven to sing God praises forever more. Children I know you miss father, who was so good to you and everybody and we should not worry over him because we feel sure he made his selection of peace calling.  I'm sure his home is so beautiful and kept with the love of God where Joy, peace, and happiness thrives for evermore and where his wife and children can go meet father if they’ll fallout with sin and do the will of father who says “look unto me to all the ends of the earth and be ye saved for I am God and besides me there is no other”. We loved him, yes we loved him but the Angels loved him more, and they come and called him to yonder shining shore.  May God bless you all to meet him.
Written by his niece, Mrs. M. C. Hall. 

Johnson, Dock ~ With much sadness we now try to write an obituary of our dear husband and father, two-wit: Dock Johnson.  He was born the son of David and Mary Mullins Johnson.  He was born January 17, 1873 and departed this life June 2, 1955, making it stay on Earth 82 years, four months and 16 days.  He was married Lourena Hall in the year of 1893, unto this union was born 13 children: six boys and seven girls.  One boy proceeded him in death 39 years ago while in infancy.  He joined the Old Joppa Church of Old Regular Baptists June 1st Saturday, 1899 and lived a faithful member until death.  He was baptized 56 years to the day he was buried.  Never was an allegation brought against him.  He always contended for a clean church.  He was a faithful member as long as he was able to go.  He was always strong and able to go till about nine months before he died.  He was the last one of his fathers family, he leaves a good wife and 12 children together with a host of friends to mourn his loss.  He was loved by all who knew him.  We have give up a good father and the Joppa Church has lost a good member.  Father never turned the hungry and needy away, he was a father to his neighborhood where he lived.  He was so good to all his children, always ready to help them.  Oh, how we miss him but we feel that our loss is heaven's gain for his life was a bright and shining light to the world.  His Memorial will be the first Saturday and Sunday in June, 1956, with the ministers of his own choice: Elder Jerry Hall Sr., Mark Burke, Joe Jones, and Charlie Jones.  Everyone is invited to come. Written by his brokenhearted family. 

Maynard, Robert W. ~  Robert W. Maynard was born June 17, 1883 and was the son of Nancy and Jeff Maynard.  He was a member of the Burning Springs Regular Baptist Church.  He was baptized August 8, 1953.  He deceased this life August 8, 1955.  He was the father of 13 children.  Eight sons and five daughters.  Seven of the sons are living and all of the daughters.  He was faithful to attend church when he was able.
Written by Sister Hattie Maynard.

McKinney, Dandy ~ It is with a sad heart that I try to write a short obituary of Brother Dandy McKinney, who was born June 1, 1889, and departed this life December 23, 1954. He was 65 years, six months and 23 days old.  He was the son of Simpkins McKinney and Louisa Akers McKinney.  He was married to Mary Hall and to this union was born six children, four of them proceeded him in death while infants. He leaves his wife, Mary and two children, six grandchildren and one sister to mourn his loss. I believe our loss is his eternal gain in heaven.  Brother Dandy professed a hope in Christ Jesus, and gave his hand to Elder Marion Hall, to become a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church, but he was too weak to be baptized, he said he wanted to be baptized but never was able to be baptized here in this natural water but according to his fruits I believe the Angels came and took that soul of his to a resting place in the glory world where he will never know plain anymore, it will be peace and happiness for evermore in that bright city where there is no night. So I will say to the family one and all, if you ever want to see Brother Dandy again we must try to live for Jesus and walk that straight and narrow way. Brother lived a honest life made his way by hard work and was good to his family and was ready to help all in time of need. But children, you can never see him around the home again.  I will say to Mary, his wife and son Daniel hold out faithful, live up to God's command and you will see father again. I will say to Francis fallout with sin, and live for Jesus, and meet dad again. The writer can say there are many sad moment for me here since brother has gone.  I can't see him anymore, but by the grace of God we can meet again. Brother was a soldier in World War I, 1918 and 1919.  I believe he is a soldier now where he will live forever and never die. We loved him but as he told me he saw the Angels over him, I will always remember how he talked about Jesus the Savior. I will close by saying we loved him, yes we loved him, but God loved him best, and sent the Angels to take him to that bright and peaceful shore.
Written by his heart broken sister, Mary M. Kidd. 

Mitchell, Clarence & Emma ~  I will now attempt to write an obituary of Brother Clarence and Emma Mitchell.  Brother Clarence was born October 22, 1877 and deceased November 22, 1953.  Brother Mitchell was formerly of Powell and surrounding counties and at the time of his death lived in Montgomery County, Mount Sterling, Route 2.  He was the son of James and Elizabeth King Mitchell.  In the year of 1897 he was married to Emma Hardy.  To this union was born 23 children whom 20 proceed him in death.  There are two girls and one boy living.  In the air 1951, Brother Mitchell suffered from blood poisoning and had to have a leg removed in 1952.  The writer with some of the brethren visited his home and by request had meetings even though he was bed fast.  Brother Mitchell enjoyed the service very much and professed a hope in Christ and left and undoubtly testimony and at the same time, his wife also gave her hand and they were baptized upon the confession of their faith and took the Fellowship with the Ball Branch Church of the Old Regular Baptist faith. Sister Mitchell was the daughter of Renold and Mary Charles Hardy.  She was born August 5, 1882 and deceased July 4, 1953 in the sickness of Brother Mitchell.  While she was waiting on Brother Mitchell, Sister Mitchell took sick and lingered six months before she died.  These people, I believe were God fearing people and enjoyed very much the visits of Brothers and Sisters from the mountains. Their funerals were preached by Elders Earl Howard, J. J. Mosley and Burton Howard.  We feel that they are only resting from their labors and are waiting on the promises of Christ.   Written by Elder Burton Howard.

Moore, Elder Billie ~ Obituary of Elder Billie Moore.  He was the son of Bill and Jane Moore; he was born in Floyd County in 1877, deceased September 13, 1955, in Montgomery County at the home of his niece, Martha Shepherd.  Brother Billy was never married, he spent most of his life in Floyd and surrounding counties.  He was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church, in which he was a minister for over 40 years. He leaves one Brother, Kelse Moore, of Floyd County.  Several nieces and a great host of kindred and friends to mourn his loss.  We believe our loss is his eternal gain.  He was sick for about nine months in which he was kindly waited upon, and wanted for nothing. His Memorial will be preached in the Mt. Sterling Church of Old Regular Baptists, the first Saturday and Sunday in September, 1956, by Elders Burden Howard, Banner Mann, Ellis Moore and others. Written by Burton Howard. 

Newsom, Phill ~ With much sadness in my heart, I will try to write an obituary of my dear beloved son, Phill Newsome. He was born May 5, 1926.  Died February 12, 1955.  He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church.  He said he wanted to be baptized soon as he got better.  But he never got able to be baptized.  He just lived near two weeks after he joined the church.  He gave his hand to Brother Elder Marion Sword to become a member of the Old Beaver Church.  He told Brother Marion he believed in being baptized.  Ruth, his wife, and myself were sitting up with him and will have to leave you.  I am not afraid to die.  I just hate to leave you.  I like to stay with you but I can't.  I believe I have a better home than this”, and he was leaning on my shoulder talking crying.  He said, “You have been a good old mother to me”. And friends and my loved ones I believe with all my heart, soul and strength that I will be with him again when that great trumpet sounds so loud that it will wake up the dead that is sleeping in the ground.  I believe my sweet darling son is gone to rest were no trouble can not come and his dear wife and brothers and sisters can meet him if they will believe in Gods little son, Jesus, who can take away their sins and give them eternal life.  Phill was a good civil boy.  He left a wife and three dear little children.  One boy and two girls.  Earnie Ray, Brenda Gail and Phill Sue.  His mother, five brothers, and six sisters also are left to weep and mourn his loss.  No one knows how much we miss him.  We loved him so good.  Written by his mother Nolie Newsom. 

Rowe, Mr. Adam ~  It is with a sad feeling that I try to of my father Adam Rowe who departed this life January 31, 1953.  He was born February 22, 1878. He was first married to Polly Ann Prater, to this union were born eight children.  After her death he married Alpha Atkins Robinson, to this union were born two children.  Alpha also preceded him in death, he was later married to Sarah Prater who was left to mourn his loss with us children, two sons and two daughters, Willard, Plenie, Disie, and Angeline.  He had many friends and was like by all who knew him. Poppa was a faithful member of the Old Regular Baptist Church for about 47 years.  He lived faithful until his death going to church and helping sing the good old songs of Zion. We miss him but I believe that our loss was his eternal gain.  We have a hope of meeting him in a better world where there will be no separation, but all is joy and peace. Written by his son, Willard Rowe. 

Slone, Sister Nancy ~ Sister Nancy was the daughter of Dixon Adams and Tilda Francis Adams.  She was born July 24, 1866 and died April 4, 1954.  Age 87 years, eight months and 10 days.  About the age of 16, she was married to Andy Sloan, a son of preacher Isom Sloan.  Her husband got killed, leaving her a family of orphan children which she labored and cared for like all good mothers will do, until they all reached womanhood and manhood.   After she reached three score years, she realized something; the welfare of her poor soul.  She began pleading to the God of all glory for mercy.  She wrestled, like Jacob of old, until she felt she got the greatest blessing of all-a pardon and remission of her many sins.  Then feelings like all poor little lambs of God, wanting to get to the fold, about the year of 1933 she came to her friends and told how great things the Lord had done for her.  She asked for membership in the Old Regular Baptist Church.  She was gladly received and baptized into the Fellowship of the Mount Olive Church.  She remained in full Fellowship until death.   Sister Nancy was the mother of nine children, five boys and four girls.  Three boys and three girls are still living to mourn the loss of mother.  The girl and one of the boys had answered the death call before mother, had membership in the same church that mother did.  Two of the girls and one boy that are still living belonged to the Regular Baptist Church.  One of the girls and two boys have not yet come into the fold.  I pray that they hearken to the Savior's call and make peace with God before it's too late.  Children, you that are still living, and are out in sin, do hearken to that still voice.  Repent and be born again; and I believe you will find mother in that sweet home that Jesus has prepared for those who love and serve him.  Humbly, Morrell Sloan, a brother in hope.

Smiley, Miller ~   It is with a sad and unworthy feeling that I will attempt to help Sister Edna to write a short obituary of her dear companion, Miller Smiley.  Brother Miller was born February 14, 1898 and departed this life August 14, 1955, aged 57 years and six months old.  He was the son of Brother Alex and Sister Sarah Smiley.  He was united in marriage to Sister Edna Hall, December 30, 1920 and to this union were born 10 children, three boys and seven girls and two girls preceded him in death.  Leaving two boys and five girls, Ermin Smiley, Mrs. Woodrow Akins, Mrs. Crit Conn, Mrs. Jay Samons, Mrs. Bee Conn, Floyd and Louanna at home.  One brother Varney Smiley, of Prestonsburg, Kentucky and one Sister Mrs. Med M. Akers, of Dana, Kentucky, a dear sad and lonely companion, a host of brothers and sisters, relatives and friends to mourn his loss. Sister Edna, I feel your great loss is his eternal gain. Brother Miller professed a hope and joined the Old Regular Baptist Church, and was baptized by Brother Johnny Hall, the first Sunday in August 1954 and he lived a humble and loving Brother until God saw fit to call him up a little higher. Brother Miller had been in failing health for the past three years.  He went to different hospitals and doctors, but none seemed to do him any good.  They all told him that he would have to be operated on before he would do any better.  At one time he went to the hospital and he was to tell the doctor next morning whether he would be operated on or not.  He told me that he prayed to God that night to give him relief so that he could be with his Brothers and Sisters in church again and he said he felt so happy that night.  He told his doctor next morning that he would not be operated on and was coming home and Friday night, August 5, he was taken very bad again and was taken to the Paintsville hospital on Saturday morning, they did not seem to relieve him any, his suffering grew so bad that his faithful companion had the ambulance to move him to the Lady Of The Way Hospital about 10:00 o'clock Sunday night where he finally submitted to a very serious operation on Thursday morning August 2 and he told his companion and children that he was so happy all that day and felt so good.  But on Saturday morning about 3:00 o'clock he took worse and never spoke again until God in his great mercies saw that our Brother had suffered enough.  Then on Sunday night about the hour of eight o'clock, I feel that God sent a convoy of shining Angels to convey that part home, that he purchased with His own blood there to rest a little season to wait the redemption of his body.  Then Sister Edna when we see your dear companion again, he won't have that weak body anymore.  He will have a body like Christ, a glorious body. Sister Edna you have been so faithful in standing by your companion’s side.  I feel that your reward is in heaven and you children that have been so good to your daddy, I feel that if you ever see him again you must be saved by the same grace that I feel he was.  So Sister Edna weep not.  I feel that you have that hope that you will see Brother Miller again.  His funeral is being preached today by Brother Tack Hall, Johnny Hall, George Perrigon, Linney Boyd and Elzie Hall.   Written by an unworthy brother in hope, Allen W. Akers.

Tackett, Milton ~ I will try to write his sketch of the obituary of Brother Milton Tackett by the request of his wife, Pearly.  Milton was born September 1, 1889.  Deceased this life July 21, 1955, age 65 years, 10 months and 21 days.  He was the son of Maryland Tackett and Rhoda Caudill Tackett, he first married Allie Little and to this union was born four children, three boys, and one girl.  The girl and two boys proceeded him in death as did Allie leaving one boy, Mont of Virgie, Kentucky.  On October 23, 1919, he married Pearl Tackett and to this union was born 11 children, four girls and seven boys, one girl and one boy proceeded him in death, leaving six boys and three girls.  They are Comas, of Virgie, Kentucky; Lester, of Weeksbury, Kentucky; Maryland and Sterling, of Baltimore, Maryland; Chester Rodney, of Ohio; Treel and Bernice at home, Mrs. Frank Parsons, Columbus, Ohio and Mrs.  Rufus Stollings, Vinton, Ohio.  He leaves his wife and 10 children, 16 grandchildren, five brothers and one sister and a host of friends and relatives to mourn his loss.  We feel our loss is heaven's gain.  He is missed by his friends and relatives and the Little Pearl Church. I would often see him on meeting times carrying a bucket of water to the Little Pearl Church, but no more will I see him, but hope to see him in a land where no more parting will come.  So I mean and want to say to his children that not made peace with God if they want to see their daddy anymore to fallout with sin and pray to that God that hears prayers of all humble hearted men and women.  I have heard the hope and the testimony of Brother Milton according to his testimony he is gone where no trouble can't come.  I feel that his soul is resting under the altar and the paradise of God waiting for the day of redemption of his soul and body to reunite back together and it won't be sick no more.  I have seen the tears running down his cheeks so many times at the Little Pearl Church.  They are bottled away.  He gave the church house and the lot to the Little Pearl Church.  I've heard him say so many times, how he loved to see the Pearl Church get along in love and peace.  So as this obituary is getting long and lengthy, I will come to a close. Brother Milton's funeral will be preached the first Saturday and Sunday in July by Elder Steve Osborne, M. V. Burke, Newton Vanderpool, Willie Collins, Baxter Osborn and Anthony Hamilton and others. Written by Steve Osborne. 

Tackitt, Rachel Osborne ~  A beloved mother who was so near and dear to me.  Rachel Osborne Tackitt.  She was the daughter of Jesse B. and Sarah Johnson Osborne.  She was born July 15, 1872 and departed this life July 25, 1955.  Mother was blessed to live here on Earth 83 years and 10 days. She was married to Willis Tackett son of Able and Rebecca Caudill Tackitt, September 5, 1889.  Unto this union were born 11 children, for boys and seven girls, daddy and one daughter proceeded her in death leaving 10 of us children, 53 grandchildren and 86 great grandchildren, one sister and a host of friends and relatives to mourn her loss.  I believe our loss is her eternal gain in heaven.  Her childrens’ names: Marion, Bennie, Curtis E. Tackitt, all at Wales, Kentucky, Robert, South Whitley, Indiana; Mrs. Dorothy Bumgardner, North Manchester, Indiana; Mrs. Lillie Hall, Weeksbury, Kentucky; Mrs. Lafe Johnson, Huntington, Indiana; Mrs. Epp Tackitt, River Rouge, Michigan; Mrs. Oliver Burke, Mrs. Oliver Tackitt of Wales, Kentucky.  Her sister, America Newman, Oak Hill, Ohio. Mother joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in 1897, her membership was at the Enterprise Church 58 years.  She was blessed to live in this old church with her husband and four daughters.  Mother was sick for many years and not able to go to church.  I would go see her and she would say if you go to church Sunday, come up Sunday evening and tell me about the meeting.  Mother love to hear good preaching and she enjoyed so much talking with her brothers and sisters on the Bible.  I believe mother and daddy are together and enjoying the beauties of heaven.  Mother always enjoyed feeding the church people.  Her door was always open to all that would come and eat with her.   As I write I can almost see mother sitting in the old home in her old rocking chair reading her Bible but no more will I see her there.  Mother took sick June 18 with pneumonia and a heart condition.  We kept her in the hospital a week with special nurses.  Her pneumonia got better but her heart condition grew worse.  She wanted to come home.  She lived four weeks longer.  Her children and family did all we could for her.  We stood over her day and night.  She couldn't eat for several days before she died, she told us she was starving.  It was so hard to stand back and see mother suffer like she did and couldn't do anything for her.  But the best part, I believe with all my heart that mother is gone to a country where she will never starve anymore, and is drinking from that fountain that never runs dry.  I have seen her so many times raise those little feeble hands and praise the Lord and say she was ready to go home but hated to leave us children.  She has fought a good fight, finished her course and has kept the faith and now she is gone to receive a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous Judge shall give her and not only her but all who love Him and do his will.   Now children, sons in law, daughters in law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  You who have not made peace with your Lord it is time you were looking upward and remember the promise is to them that love and serve the Lord.   Mother's request was to have her memorial preached in October, so it will be preached the third Saturday and Sunday in October 1956.  Hope the Lord will bless all of her children to attend this meeting.  It will be preached at the Enterprise Church house.
God must have loved her very much,   And we have loved her too. We know how many helpful things   Her kind hands found to do.
But till we reached that happy place,   Where grief is all consoled. Will never know the joy she found  Beyond the Sunset Gold.
Written by her youngest daughter, Mrs. Orville Tackitt.

Triplett, Sister Artie ~ was the daughter of Samuel & Caroline Gibson. She was born September 14, 1888, deceased May 6, 1955, being 66 years, 4 months and 6 days old. in the year 1908, Sister Artie was married to Ellis Triplett. To this union was born 3 children, two boys, and one girl, all who live to mourn her loss, In the year 1947, Sister Artie professed her hope in Christ and joined the Old Regular Baptist Church and she lived as a faithful member until her death. ON may 6, 1955, Sister Artie started to visit the home of her neighbor who had died and in her journey there she was hit by a large truck which caused instant death. Sister Artie was always active in the church and showed her love by her kindness to her Brothers, Sisters and friends always lending a helping hand in sickness. We feel our loss is heavens gain. Her husband, Brother Ellis lived by her side in the church and we believe he will see her again. If the children want to see their Mother in this life we must prepare to go to heaven.
Written by Elder Barom Howard

Triplett, Johnny ~   It is with much sadness and a broken heart that I try to write an obituary of a beloved father and husband, to wit; Johnny Triplett, son of the late Daniel and Margaret Stewart Triplett.   Daddy was born in Knott County, Kentucky, on March 7, 1894 and God in his infinite wisdom and love, called him from his earthly cares and toils to spiritual refreshments, in that Celestial city of rest, on September 2, 1955.  Age 61 years, five months and 26 days.  He was united in marriage to Rebecca Poplin on March 17, 1921.  God blessed this union with much joy and happiness and gave them 12 children, five boys and seven girls, all still living.  Ellis of Hunnewell, Kentucky, Jimmy of Westwood, Kentucky, Troy, Robert and Carl still at home, Mrs. Baxter Osborne, of Summitt, Kentucky, Sylvia Triplett of Columbus, Ohio, Mrs. Mollie Harris of Hunnewell, Kentucky, Gracie, Rhebie and Stella Ruth at home. Daddy leaves the above named children, 11 grandchildren, a devoted wife, three brothers and three sisters together with a host of friends to mourn his departure from this life. Daddy was stricken with that dreadful disease tuberculosis and endured the pain with patients for 4 long months.  In spite of all that the family and medical science could do.  On that lonely morning at the hospital, the hand of God could not be moved, and so it pleased God to move his blessed soul into that fair city of endless rest to receive that beautiful crown he talked so much about, and so, that treasure, “the immortal soul” departed from this “earthen vessel” and the body and went to rest at 11:40 AM, Friday, September 2, 1955. The sweet Council he gave is all over, his righteous advice is but a memory, his much pleading and begging to his children has been made silent by the enemy of death, his voice cannot be heard any more, until the eternal day of the Lord.  Children, let me beg you with a heart of love to heed the advice of daddy.  There's mercy in the Lord, get your ticket signed and sealed by the redeeming blood of the lamb, and be ready to meet daddy in glory on that resurrection day. Daddy was a devoted member of the Old Regular Baptist Church served the South Fork Church as their clerk for 15 faithful years.  Thanks be to God, their loss is heaven's gain. During world war one, he was a combat veteran, in the US Army and served with honor oversees and elsewhere.  No doubt his heart was made glad when he heard his captain say: “Johnny, the last battle has been won, you can go home to your loved ones”.  But thanks be to God, daddy was called into the Army the Lord to do battle against sin and the devil.  He served faithfully, with valor.  He was a distinguished soldier of the cross, and like all the Saints who have gone on before him, he was never heard to complain, he was never known to falter or shrink his duty, no matter how harsh the persecutions, he endured them with much patience.  Like the brave soldier he was, he met death at his post, and no doubt his soul, that inward principle of man, cried out with joy when he heard the voice of his captain, King Jesus say, “Johnny you’ve been a good soldier, your warfare on Earth is ended, come on home, you’ve earned a rest, enter thou in the joys of the Lord.  Receive that crown of righteousness and forever dwell with the Lord and his angels.
“Tis finished, the conflict is past, The heaven born spirit is fled,  His wish is accomplished at last,   And now he’s entombed with the dead
The months of affliction are o’er,  The days and nights of distress,   We see him in anguish no more,   He’s gained his happy release”.
Daddys Memorial will be preached the first Saturday and Sunday in September 1956 at the South Fork Church, ministers called Elders Roy Akers, Willie Collins, Burton Howard, Sidney Houdson, Steve Osborne, Ellis Moore and Baxter Osborne.
Written by a sad and brokenhearted daughter Mrs. Baxter Osborne.