Submitted by Wilma Thomas

Bailey, Draxie (Holbrook) ~ With the help of the Lord, we will try to write an obituary of our dear Mother, Draxie (Holbrook) Bailey. She was born in Halo, Kentucky in Floyd County on December 31,1933 and passed awayonJune9,1995. Making her stay on earth 61 years, 5 months and 9 days. Her parents were the late William B. Holbrook and Stella Mae (Burke) Holbrook. She came from a family of 12 children to wit, Elder Ellis Holbrook, Deacon Charles Edward Holbrook, James Earl Holbrook, William B. Holbrook Jr., Mary Marie Holbrook, who preceded her in death, Judith Ann Phillips, John Curtis Holbrook, Betty Ruth Hobbs, Kenneth Wayne Holbrook, Carolyn Lynn Gilliam and Cathy Gail Harville. On December 21,1955, Mom was married to Henry Douglas Bailey. Unto this union 3 children were born, Henry Douglas Bailey Jr., Mary Stellanna (Bailey) Barnes and Jayne Ellen (Bailey) Branham. She also had 3 grandchildren, Douglas, Christopher and Whitney. To us children we couldn't have chosen a better mother had we picked her ourselves. She was an honest, caring, forgiving and sincere person with a good sense of humor. She always liked to make people laugh — even until they very end. She had a place in her heart for everyone and made them feel welcome. Everyone who had the honor to know her loved her. Several years ago, Mom prayed to the Lord and felt a love come into her heart so great that she could forgive her worse enemy. While in the hospital she gave her hand to become a member of the Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church, at Melvin, and was baptized on April 16,1995. Mom came out of the water clapping her hands and rejoicing; she was the happiest we had ever seen her on that day. It was hard for the family to give her up but we know our Mother will feel no more pain and our loss is heaven's gain. Our family appreciates everyone who took time to come by and show their care and kindness while she was ill. May God Bless!
Written by her daughters, Mary Stellanna and Jayne Ellen Assisted by William B. Holbrook, Jr. Harold Lloyd Baldridge: s/o Dave & Sadie Whitaker Baldridge. m. Geneva
George Patton Bartley: s/o Patton & Adeline Coleman Bartley. m. Clara Newsome.

Bartley, George Patton  ~ 78, of Hellier, died Saturday, July 15, 1995, at the Pikeville Methodist Hospital. He was born at Hellier, Kentucky on March 26, 1917, a son of the late Patton and Adeline Coleman Bartley. He is survived by his wife, Clara Newsom Bartley; one son, Bennie Phillip Bartley and his wife Lorraine, of Pikeville; and one daughter, Burita Dawn Rowe and her husband Ellis, of Rockhouse; five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Also surviving are a sister, Mable B. Adkins, of Kissimmee, Florida; and two half-brothers, Paul E. Ratliff, of Rockhouse, and Elzie D. Ratliff, of Bull Shoals, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Olaf Bartley and Brady Bartley. At a young age, George gave his heart to God and was baptized into the Hellier Christian Church, which is no longer there. He has attended the Old Regular Baptist church for years and did love to have the preachers visit him in his home and in the hospital. Rev. Dewey Roberts was a faithful visitor and George was always pleased to see him. George served his country in the military service during World War II. He was in the U.S. Navy and was assigned to an aircraft carrier, the USS Bogue. A kind and honest person, George always spoke well of his fellow man. For many years he was a merchant and co-owner of Bartley's Store with his brother, Brady. He really enjoyed having friends come by the store at Rockhouse to talk and huddle around the old coal stove in winter, and then to pitch horseshoes in summer. He was a notary public and well known in the community for the countless deeds, car papers and other documents he completed and notarized. George had a teaching career that spanned many years having taught at several Pike County schools including Rockhouse, Greasy Creek, Lookout and Hellier. His influence was felt in the lives of the many students of his teaching and he was loved and respected by all. It is no wonder that as a husband, father, father-in-law, papaw, and great grandpa, George's family consider him the best.    George Patton Bartley will be sadly missed by all of us.

Bates, Randall ~ With God's help, I will try to write the obituary of my brother, Randall Bates. Randy was born on June 29, 1968 at Hindman, Kentucky to Hollis and Georgia Hall Bates. He died on September 24, 1994 from injuries he received in a tragic car wreck less than 1/4 mile from his home. His stay here on earth was 26 years, 2 months, and 26 days. He leaves behind to mourn his death, his parents, his wife, Tammy Slone Bates and one daughter, Latoshia Dawn. His grandparents, Clarence and the late Dorthea Mullins Bates and Garnie (Hawk) and Bessie Bentley Hall. Also five brothers and sisters-in-law; Ted and Charlotte Caudill of Algonquin, Illinois; Larry and Oma Caudill, Ray and Sonja Caudill, Thomas and Paula Bates, and Gary and Angela Bates; all of Pinetop, Kentucky. Six sisters and brothers-in-law, Jeannie and Dowell Thornsberry, Patty and Deffort Thornsberry, and Sharon and Danny Thornsberry of Kite, Kentucky; Peggy and Jeff Huff of Dema, Kentucky; Kitty and Jim Back of Ulvah, Kentucky, and Jackie and Anothy Huff of Topmost, Kentucky. Randy also had nineteen nieces and nephews and one great nephew who miss him very much. He also leaves many other family members and a host of friends. Randy died a week before his daughter's first birthday. She is too young to understand why her daddy won't be coming home. We will always keep his memory alive for her. God only knew how much we love him and miss seeing his smiling face. We can only pray that someday we will see him again in heaven. Our lives have not been the same and never will be again. We have his daughter to try and ease the pain of not being able to see him. Written by Randy's sister, Patty Thornsberry for his daughter, Latoshia

Boyd, Virgil ~ 88 of Tram, died Monday, June 5, 1995, at his residence. Born August 7,1906 at Dana, he was the son of the late Nelse and Rose Ann Patton Boyd. He was a retired coal miner and member of the Little Salem Old Regular Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Vana Boyd. Survivors include six sons, Robert Boyd of Betsy Layne, Asbury Boyd, Randy Boyd and Virgil Boyd Jr., all of Tram, Raymond Boyd of Birmingham, Ohio, and J.B. Boyd of Ivel; one stepson, Nola Boyd of Wellington, Ohio; three daughters, Ottowa Akers, Lizzie Lewis and Rosie Blevins, all of Tram; 46 grandchildren and several great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren. Funeral services were Thursday, June 8, at 1:00 p.m. at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home with Little Salem Old Regular Baptist Church ministers officiating. Burial followed in the Green Kidd Cemetery at Dana, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home.   Written by a loving wife, Rosa and three daughters

Brafford, Paul ~ Paul Brafford entered into eternal rest on April 1,1995 at 8:15 p.m. While in the Pikeville Methodist Hospital in Pike County, KY. Paul was the son of Lee and Mary Mullins Brafford. He was born on August 15, 1910 making his stay on this earth 84 years, 4 months, and 15 days. Paul served his country in the Navy during World War II. He earned his living as a coal miner and he was proud of both. Paul is survived by his wife, Matilda Martin Campbell Brafford, three sons, Ronnie Paul, Frank Howard, and William Michael all of Michigan. Four stepchildren, Bill Campbell of Robinson Creek, Kentucky, Ann Campbell Dixon of Arizona, Barry Campbell of Dorton, Kentucky, and Rosemary Campbell Dingus of Cynthiana, Kentucky. He left 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Paul had 4 brothers - Adrian Daniel, Carl Leon, William Charles, and Oscar Ray Brafford, all preceded him in death. He also had 4 sisters - Daisy Damron, and Juanita Damron preceded him in death. He has 2 surviving sisters, Hazel Tackett of Atlanta, GA, and Easter Hamilton of Collins, KY. Paul gave his life and soul to God 21 years ago. He joined the Old Regular Baptist church in 1994. Paul was a loving husband and father. He will be sadly missed by family and friends. Written by his sister, Easter Hamilton

Branham, Joe ~ It is with much sadness and fond memories I will write the obituary of my Dad, Joe Branham. Dad was born December 6,1904, at Boonescamp, Kentucky in Johnson County to the late John H. and Mary Allice Golden Branham. He departed this life Monday, September 19, 1994, at the Highlands Hospital, Prestonsburg, Kentucky. Daddy was a member of the Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church for 41 years. He was ordained as Deacon May 1,1971. Daddy loved to attend church and be with his brothers and sisters in the church. Daddy never stopped giving the Lord praise for the many blessings he received. He would always tell me, "you've got to trust in the Lord". He was more than a Dad to me, he was a friend someone I could talk to about life's many problems. The last Communion he was able to attend we washed each others feet. It was a great privilege and honor to me to humble myself down on my knees before God and him and do as Jesus and the Disciples did. Dad was married to Mom the late Palmyra Tackett Branham, May 3,1928. To this union was born three boys and three girls. Will (Buggy), Richard L. and Collie V. Branham all of Melvin, Kentucky. Shelvia Kilgore of San Angelo, Texas, Allene Hypes of Richmond, Ind., and Louise Watts of Shelbyville, Kentucky. Willie (Buggy) and Mom preceded Dad in death. Dad is survived by one brother Willie (Bill) Branham of Weeksbury, Kentucky, eleven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Daddy loved and cared for his children, he was a hard worker and a devoted Dad. He was always so proud of his girls and would cherish each visit they would make. To my natural brother and sisters I'd like to say, "Though mountains and miles may separate us, my love for you is there like a beacon in the night and let us live a righteous life before God and make the circle complete in Heaven".   Written by a Son and a Brother in Hope, Collie

Burke, Jewell Dean ~ It is with much grief and sadness that we write an obituary of and eulogy to our sister, both in the flesh and in the Lord, Jewell Dean Burke. She was the first born of twins, born August 8, 1938, to Grant and Aggie Hall Burke. She departed life on this earth, God's footstool, June 24, 1995, being 56 years old. She was preceded in death by both her parents and a brother, Willis who died as an infant. She is survived by brothers Orville of Melvin, Kentucky and Clyde of Weeksbury; sisters Opal Dutton of Trenton, MI, Evelyn Johnson of Weeksbury, her twin sister, Geraldene Burke of Weeksbury and Beatrice Hall of Mansfield, OH. She is also survived by three nieces, five nephews and a host of other relatives, neighbors, and friends. Several days prior to her death she told her sister, Geraldene, and her sister-in-law, Joann Burke, that she felt there wasn't anything standing between her and Heaven but death. She also told them that she wanted to go home. She had told us almost a year before her death that she was praying and begging the Lord for forgiveness of her sins and for mercy. On Friday night, June 23,1995, this writer believes with all my heart that it became evident that her prayers had been heard. We called Elder Jimmy Hall, of the Little Rosa Church at McDowell, who came to her room in the hospital at McDowell. He sang "Ride Out Your Storm" and held prayer. As he was doing these, we believe, even from a morphine induced sleep, and in spite of being so crippled by cancer of the bone, she seemed to be moaning moans of joy and trying to lift her feeble arms in praises of her Blessed Saviour. We feel that now she is walking on those streets of gold, streets where the Angels have trod, and singing and shouting praises to the Blessed One who is still standing with outstretched arms to welcome all who will come through the Door that was nailed to the cross. We miss her badly and continue to grieve for her in spite of the fact that we feel she is now in a much better place than we. Written by brother-in-law, James G. Hall and broken hearted sisters, Beatrice and Geraldene

Burke, Joyce Ann ~ It is with much sadness and a broken heart that I will try to write an obituary of my dear beloved wife, Joyce Ann Burke. She was born December 22,1946 in Pike County, the daughter of Talmadge and Elizabeth (Ward) Thompson. She departed this life here on earth February 12,1995. This making her stay here on this earth 48 years, one month and twenty-one days. Joyce and, Silas Burke, Jr., were married on February 19,1965. Joyce told me to look on the bright side for the Lord had blessed us with a good marriage for 30 years and death nor the grave could separate the love we had for each other. Joyce found out that she had cancer in September of 1994, and only lived five more months. She hardly every complained of pain or discomfort. Although, Joyce never joined any church, she did tell us before she died, not to worry that she was alright. She said she began to pray all day long for the Lord to ease her pain and above all to save her soul. Joyce realized there wasn't a cure for her cancer, but she told us there was a cure for sin and that was Jesus. My heart aches and my eyes fill with tears as I remember her. Everyone who knew her loved her. She always had a smile for everyone. Her family and friends all miss her very much. She was always there to help me and comfort me when I was in pain or filled with sorrow, as I was there for her. I loved her with all my heart and soul. I feel my loss is Heaven's gain. Written by her loving husband, Silas Burke, Jr

Burnett, Mary ~ With the help of our dear Lord, I will try and write an obituary of our loving mother, Mary Burnett. She was born on September 20, 1917 at Greenup, KY and departed this life on March 29, 1994 in Phoenix, AZ following a long illness. The daughter of the late Orian and Eliza Willis, she was united in marriage to Virgil Burnett who preceded her in death. To this union were born three children, two sons, Victor Burnett of Phoenix, AZ and Keith Allen of Irvin, ID and daughter, Wanda Jean Burt of Phoenix, AZ. She leaves four grandchildren and two great grandchildren and a host of relatives who will sadly miss her. She also leaves four sisters, Thelma, Bonnie, Nora, and Charlotte and three brothers, Lloyd, Orein and Orrie Willis. Three sisters and two brothers preceded her in death. She was a member of the Old Regular Baptist of Ancient Arizona. She was a light to everyone and always had a beautiful smile and a kind word for everyone and was there to help in every way. She filled her seat in church as long as she was able. We feel our loss is Heaven's gain. Gone but not forgotten. Written by sister in the Lord, Ruth Tackett, and her loving family

Bushong, Patsy Ann Tackett ~ It is with a sad heart that I will try to write this obituary of our daughter. Patsy Ann Tackett Bushong was born January 31,1948, and died March 4,1995, making her stay here on earth 47 years and31 days. She was born on Marshalls Branch of Long Fork, Kentucky to Arnold and Maggie Burke Tackett. Patsy married Ronald E. Bushong on September 23, 1967. To this union was born three lovely children. The oldest girl, Sharon, married on March 4, 1995. Patsy and Ron's only son, Darrin, married on August 12, 1995. Their youngest daughter, Rhonda, still resides at home in Emmett, Idaho. Rhonda is now 15 years of age. Patsy longed  to see Rhonda graduate from high school. It just wasn't God's will for her to live any longer. Patsy said she talked to God every day. She said she and Ron were going to be baptized this summer. With her cancer, she just set her stakes out too far and God called her home. Ron joined the church that they both attended all the time, after Patsy passed away. God let him keep his promise and he was baptized into that church. Patsy told me when she was so sick that she believed if she could just come to the Long Fork Church and sit down for a while she believed that it would help her (even if there wasn't anyone else there). She planned on coming back to Kentucky with her father and I. Just before we left to come home, I asked Ron if she was coming home with us and he said if she went he definitely was going to go also. I attended church with her both Sundays I was in Idaho. During our last visit to Idaho, Patsy passed away on Saturday morning. I am so thankful I got to go to church with her just one week before she died. Patsy leaves to mourn her loss besides her husband and children, two sisters: Faye Hohenhorst of Boise, Idaho and Phyllis Soper of Emmett, Idaho; two brothers, Paul Tackett of Prestonsburg, Kentucky, and Billy Tackett of Varnell, GA, and her in-laws who were very dear to her, and a host of nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends from everywhere, even her high school years at Virgie High School. I feel when my journey is completed and I have crossed over the great divide then I will live with the Sweet King Jesus on the other side. I believe I will meet my lovely daughter, Patsy, on that bright and shining shore. I want to be there with her when God opens up that door. Patsy loved her husband and children more than her mom, dad, brothers, and sisters. She and her sister, Phyllis, were so close. We all miss her so very much. Written by her broken hearted mother, Maggie Tackett

Carey, Debra Marie ~ By the help of the good Lord, I will try to write a brief obituary of Debra Marie Carey. She was the daughter of Delbert and Karen Carey. She was born May 25, 1971 and passed from this life May 2, 1995 at her parents home the results of a tragic accident. She was yelling out of the window for her friend Justin and then it happened, no doubt she was kidding with him. Debra was such a nice and wonderful young girl but like us all she had her problems and worries, she would get depressed at times but for the last while, she seemed so happy and doing much better. She and her daughter Brittany were getting along so well and her good friend, Justin. Seems like when things are going well something bad happens, but God knows all about us and when it pleases him, he will take the one he wants home to be with him up there. We feel this is what happened. He wanted another rose and took Debra home. Debra was well liked and loved by so many people young and old alike, she leaves so many of us to mourn the loss her daughter, parents, brother, grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, and so many friends. She had one grandfather and two uncles precede her in death. We surely feel our loss is heaven's gain. Her body now sleeps near grandfather, Lewel Carey, and two uncles in Maple Grove Cemetery, Brookville, Indiana. So let us all trust in the good Lord and some day Jesus will take us home. Written by Elder Zee Holbrook

Carroll, Rhonda Louise Fouts ~ It is with a broken heart and many precious memories that we write this obituary of our beloved daughter, Rhonda Louise Fouts Carroll. Rhonda was born on August 12, 1960 in Floyd County, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Hershel and Ellen Johnson Fouts of Melvin, Kentucky. She was married to Lowell Thomas Carroll, to this union was born one son, Hershel Joseph Carroll, and one daughter, Tammy Lorel Carroll who preceded her in death. Two stepsons, Tommy Lowell and Johnnie Ray Carroll. One sister, Wanda Sue Fouts, one brother, Barry Fouts of Melvin, Kentucky. Many friends and loved ones who knew her as "Pete". She departed this life on earth at Our Lady of the Way Hospital having her stay on earth 34 years, 2 months, and 18 days. She loved the Old Regular Baptist song "Just One Rose Will Do". She left many friends and loved ones to mourn. Dear sweet daughter, that perfect rose was you. Our loss is heaven's gain. Forever loved and missed by Hershell, Ellen, Wanda Sue, Barry, and a niece, Elena Shea, whom she loved dearly. Written by Helen Kendrick, Hershel & Ellen Fouts

Caudill, Carl ~ I will try to write the obituary of my dear father, Carl Caudill. He was born to Hiram, and Julia (Slone) Caudill at Topmost, Kentucky on September 1,1917. He passed away October 19,1994 at the V.A. Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky of complications following open heart surgery. On November 5, 1942 he was married to Elizabeth (Slone) Caudill. To this union was born 11 children. Six sons, Billy, Ronald, Clarence, Wendell, Rodney, Avondal, five daughters, Dorothy Asher, Isabella Rissler, Juliette Collins, Agnes Burke, and Gwen Messer. Shortly after marriage he answered his countries call to service in World War II. He raised his family working in the coal mines. He was preceded in death by his two sons, Clarence, and Avondal, his father Hiram, his mother Julia (Slone) Caudill, three brothers, Colones, Ezard, Maggard, two sisters, Tina Caudill, and Ella Hall. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, sons, Billy, Ronald, Wendell, Rodney, daughters, Dorothy Asher, Isabella Rissler, Juliette Collins, Agnes Burke, and Gwen Messer, twenty four grandchildren and one great grandchild. Although he never belonged to the church, he attended Old Regular Baptist Churches as long as he was able. Not long before he had surgery, he told Rodger Hicks he felt like the Lord saved him, and if he got through surgery alright he wanted him and Walter Burke to baptize him. I feel he traded his troubles for a home where there will be no troubles. Written by son, Wendell

Crisp, Felix ~ age 100, of Allen, Kentucky, husband of Etta Ruth Akers Crisp, passed away Tuesday, September 12,1995, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg, Kentucky following an extended illness. He was born April 16, 1895, in the city of Martin, Kentucky, the son of the late Alex L. and Mary Frasure Crisp. Brother Felix was a retired self-employed barber, a U.S. Army WWI Veteran, a member of the New Salem Old Regular Baptist Church, Harold, Kentucky, and a life member of the V.F.W., Lancer, Kentucky. In addition to his wife of 75 years, he is survived by one son, Ray Crisp, Allen, Kentucky; one daughter, Eula C. O'Neill, Louisa, Kentucky, 8 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and 13 great great grandchildren. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by one son, Obie Crisp. Brother Felix joined the New Salem Church of Regular Baptist on the first Saturday in October, 1946 and was baptized into fellowship by the late Elder Cola F. Conn. He was a faithful member for 49 years. He served in the United States Army during World War I and was stationed for a period of one year in the countries of France and England. The city of Allen, Kentucky was fortunate to have had Brother Felix as a citizen. He walked straight and tall, although he was 100 years of age. He had no drooping shoulders. His mind was clear and he never ask for anything. He was happy to share what he had with the less fortunate. He loved his family and friends. The grandchildren knew him as Dad. He surely will be missed by all and his foot prints around the home will never fade away. Church dinners with him were always happy even if he did say that my pies were sour enough to make a pig squeal. Brother Felix was always pleased to have visitors in his home. I never heard him complain. He did not do so when the U.S. Government discontinued his old soldier's pay. He just laughed and said, "I guess they need it." It was hard for me to find a word that would describe such a man as Brother Felix but now in my heart I feel I have found the word. It sure is God, his creator and saviour for none other could fashion such a man. To you children and grandchildren, you still have mother and grandmother. I know you love her equally as well as Brother Felix. Let me say to you that you are welcome at New Salem Church at any time where you will be stepping in Dad's foot prints. So, farewell for a little while. Our next gathering with Brother Felix will be around God's great throne. Written by a sister in hope, Anna Sue Layne Clarke

Damron, Charles Edward ~ It is with great sadness that we, with the help of our dear Lord, write this obituary of our dear loving husband, father and brother in the Lord. Charles Edward Damron was born June 15, 1946 to the late Okley and Little Mae Roberts Damron. He departed this life December 13,1994; exchanging a world of sickness and worries for a peaceful rest. Charles met and married Rita Ann Osborne, October 20,1973. To this union was born three children, James Okley, Paula Denise, Rebekah Leann all of the home; also one daughter, Carlina Marie Damron of Columbus, Ohio. He is survived by four brothers and three sisters, Bethard Eugene of Little Creek, Paul Vernon, Robert Lee, Danny Keith, all of Buckfield; Geraldine Blevins of Detroit, Michigan, Aria Mae Bailey of Pikeville, Peggy Elaine Rose of Robinson Creek, one brother, James Alfred who preceded him in death in February, 1964. Brother Charlie is also survived by a great host of loving nephews and nieces; whom he loved very much and they in turn loved him. Brother Charlie was baptized Sunday, October 13,1985. He was a faithful member of Elizabeth Old Regular Baptist Church. Brother Charlie had a great love for his family, his brothers and sisters, this old church, and his brothers and sisters in the Lord. You could see the love on his face as he eagerly parked cars and set out seats for visitors. He would greet everyone with a heart felt handshake, a hug, and a warm smile. Brother Charlie loved the Lord and wanted everyone to go to Heaven. Brother Charlie's face would beam when he was receiving a blessing from our Lord. We have suffered a great loss; but we feel our loss is Heaven's gain. Sister Mabel, (our sister-in- law) had a wonderful dream about Brother Charlie. In her dream, he placed his hand upon the shoulder of one of his brothers and said "Come on, it is so beautiful and peaceful here." Our daughter, Rebekah, also dreamed of her Daddy and grandmother being together. She had never seen her grandmother before. She said, "They looked so happy!" These dreams were a great comfort to our family. Brother Charlie's death was a great shock to all those who knew and loved him. As we think back, there were little signs along the way. One night, he told me he had several dreams of being with a dear friend who had passed away several years ago. He said he didn't tell me because he didn't want me to worry. We feel if Brother Charlie could speak back; he would just smile and say, "I beat you home." He would tell his children and his loved ones to "Be ready, because we know not when our time will come to go. Live for Jesus and some sweet day we will all meet in Heaven where there will be no more sorrow, no more pain, no sad good-byes and we shall all rejoice together with Sweet Jesus."
Written in loving memory, by his wife, Sister Rita Damron and family

Davis, Laura Layne ~ It is at the request of the family that I write the obituary of Sister Laura Layne Davis, the daughter of Dave Layne and Elizabeth Hicks Layne, both parents having preceded her in death several years ago. She was born on June 15, 1915 at Pyramid, Kentucky and deceased this natural life on March 21,1995 at Prestonsburg, Kentucky at age 79 years, 9 months. Date April 23, 1932 she was united in marriage to Brother William Melvin (Jug) Davis, who passed away on February 4, 1989. Unto this union were born 9 children, surviving are Forrest and Tony of the state of Ohio, Floyd Dean of Hippo, Kentucky, Victor Ray of Magoffin County and one daughter, Clara Cooley also of Hippo, deceased children are Bert, Ashland L., and twins Alka Ray and Nancy Faye. She is also survived by 19 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. One brother survives, Lawrence Layne of Bell Center, Ohio. During her lifetime, she with the help of her companion, were blessed to raise their children and several of her grandchildren, and I'm sure several of the neighborhood boys can remember eating many a good meal at her table. Sister Laura and Dad shared the same birth month and day. I can remember for years on their birthday, Dad would take her a little gift and she would return the act of friendship, which seemed to give them both a lot of pleasure. Sister Laura traveled down the broad road of life as many of us did, but shortly after Brother Jug was converted to the ways of the Lord, she professed a hope in Christ and was baptized in July 1988 by Brother Dave Proffit and Brother Vick Davis on Brushy Fork of Licking river. Her membership was taken in the Brushy Fork Missionary Baptist Church in Magoffin County. Several of her children and grandchildren, I feel and believe have made peace with God. If any have not made peace with God, I beg of you to do so while life affords you the opportunity.
Written by a companion in Christ, Brother Fred Vanderpool

Draughn, Essie G. ~ Essie Gayheart Draughn was born June 27,1921 to Lee Gayheart and Lain Combs Gayheart. She deceased this mortal life on February 20,1995 at her home at Soft Shell, Kentucky. Ess was preceded in death by her parents and all of her brothers and sisters. She was also preceded in death by her first husband, Elder Earl Howard, and her second husband, Leslie Draughn. She leaves to mourn her passing, one broken hearted and lonely daughter, Janice Holland Smith of Soft Shell, and son-in-law, Paul Stephen Smith. She also leaves a host of step children, step grandchildren, nieces and nephews to mourn her passing. Ess was a member of the Ball Branch Old Regular Baptist church, which she dearly loved since October 1965. Her passing has left such an empty spot in my home and my life and my heart aches so much sometimes that I can only bear it by reminding myself that I will one day be able to walk with her in that beautiful garden that she saw in a vision while she was in the hospital. Ess was truly one of God's chosen ones. She took me into her home and raised and loved me as her own. She gave me all she had to give, but most importantly taught me the ways of God. She always had a great love for little children and always wanted to give something to all who came her way. When anyone entered her door, she always wanted to fix them something to eat. She would often tell me that she was looking forward to the day when Jesus would call her home. She would say that she did not dread death, just getting down to the river. I want to say to all our family that if you want to see her again, you must repent and be born again. That was her prayer and her sincere desire for all of you. I can only say, "Ess, I miss you so very much and my heart aches each day. Just sleep on, I will meet you on that sweet homecoming day."   Written by a broken hearted daughter, Janice H. Smith

Duff, Irian ~ Irian was born December 22,1933 and died September 11,1995 after a long illness. Irian was the son of Green and Birdie Duff who preceded him in death. He leaves behind to mourn his passing: his loving wife, Wyoma; his nieces, Anita and Breanna, whom he loved as his daughter and granddaughter; and four brothers and four sisters. Brothers being Wade of Garrett, Bewel of Waynesfield, Ohio, Willie of Langley, Sidney of Port Deposit, Maryland. Sisters being Pauline Cotter of Palmetto, Florida, Vernia Rowe of Alger, Ohio, Olive Martin of Langley, Helen Lowery of Belle Center, Ohio, many nieces and nephews that he loved very much, and a host of other family and friends. As I try to write the obituary of my brother Irian, the first thing that comes to my mind is that he was a good man. That seems so little to say of someone that has meant so much to this family and his friends. He was always more than willing to help his family, friends, and strangers alike. He was one of those who made a difference in this world. Irian was a member of the Old Regular Baptist church for many years. One of his great loves was to sing the praises of the Lord. When the singing began in church, you did not have to ask if he was present or not. His voice rang out loud and clear in harmony with the spirit of the Lord. He had just begun to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. He believed that a Christian should always be willing to stand and give a reason for his salvation and his belief in an eternal life. He testified on his death bed many times to many people that he had a better home to go to. That is a great comfort to his family and friends. If Irian could speak now, I'm sure he would say something like this. "Perhaps my time seemed all to brief. Don't lengthen it now with undue grief, lift up your heart and share with me. God wanted me now. He set me free."

Elliott, John ~ With the help of the Lord, we will try to write an obituary of our beloved father, John Elliott. Dad was born July 10, 1909 at Dony, Kentucky to the late Frances "Bud" Elliott and Victoria Hall Elliott. He was married to Maxie Hamilton in July, 1927. To this union was born four children: Homer and Francis who preceded him in death. Barbara Carlini of Eutis, Florida. Clara Flannery of Longwood, Florida. After the death of Maxie, he met and married Bessie Hamilton. To this union was born nine children. Sons: Monford of Houston, TX, Jackie of Shelby, OH, Ronnie of Colorado Springs, CO, Basil of New London, OH, and John Douglas of Orlando, FL. Daughters: Donna Hardin of Hillman, MI, Glenna Kendrick of Plymouth, OH, Phyllis Dale of Greenwich, OH and Vickie Kendrick of McDowell, KY. He also leaves to mourn his loss are 30 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 15 step grandchildren. Left to mourn his loss are brothers: Hershel and Andy of Michigan, Roy of Ohio, and Francis Jr. of McDowell, Kentucky. Sisters: Lona Martin and Oma Moore of McDowell, Kentucky, Leona Mitchell, Lucy Schmittou, and Hazel Nickles of Michigan. Dad was baptized April 19,1959 at the Little Ida Church in Ecorse, Michigan. He was ordained as a deacon in August 1961. Dad and mom moved back to Kentucky in 1966 and brought their letter to the Little Rosa Church where he was a faithful member until his death. He loved to see the Little Rosa church to grow and prosper, for he loved it with his whole heart. There are so many good things we could say about Daddy, but his life was a witness that words could not express. We believe by his life our loss is heaven's gain. To his family, if you ever want to see daddy again, cast your eyes upon the same Jesus that Daddy served for so many years. Written by his family

Elswick, Allard ~ With a sad and broken heart, I will try to write an obituary of my dear beloved husband and father, to wit, Allard Elswick. He was the son of the late Caleb and Sarah Hampton Elswick. He was born on March 23,1907 and passed away February 17,1995, making his stay on earth 87 years, 11 months, and 17 days. He was an UMWA retired coal miner. Allard and I were married August 23,1930, and the Lord blessed us with five children. One little daughter preceded him in death, Freeda Joyce, leaving me and four children to mourn our loss: Geneva Webb, Leslie Darrell Elswick, Gloria Fern Damron, and Glenda Carol Miracle. Allard joined the Long Fork Old Regular Baptist Church May 22,1976, and was ordained as a Deacon October 28,1978, and remained a Deacon for sixteen years before he passed away. Allard was a faithful member for as long as he was able to go, but now he is gone, but not forgotten. We loved him so much but God must have loved him more. I feel that our loss is Heaven's gain. So children if you want to see your Daddy again just look to the Good Lord, like he did. The Memorial Service for Allard Elswick will be June 30, 1996 at the Long Fork Old Regular Baptist Church. Written by his loving wife, Dallah

Fern, Charlos ~  was born July 5,1932, at Jacks Creek, Kentucky, to the late Levi and Clara Waddles Johnson. She passed away April 13, 1995, at St. Joseph Hospital, Lexington, Kentucky. On July 25, 1951, Fern was married to Truman Akers of Wheelwright, Kentucky. The two remained happily married until her untimely death. In 1953, Fern lost her mother and two years later, her father. At that time, with two children of their own, she and Truman assumed the responsibility of rearing five younger brothers and sisters. In 1965, Fern gave her life to the Lord and served Him faithfully throughout the rest of her life. Fern was preceded in death by two brothers, Roy Gene and Clyde. Survivors include her husband, Truman Akers; two sons, Randal Akers of Marietta, Georgia, and Terry Akers of Bevinsville; three brothers, Claude Johnson of Halo, Jack Cleveland Johnson of Topmost, and Levi Johnson, Jr. of Weeksbury; three sisters, Peggy Jo Bates of Melvin, Bobbie June Hoover of Dema, and Judy Rose Parham of White, Georgia; and four grandchildren, Randal Aaron Akers and Meagan Brooke of Marietta, Georgia, and Kyle Akers and Wesley Tyler Akers of Bevinsville. Fern leaves behind a sad and lonely family who take comfort in the knowledge that she is in Heaven with the Lord.    Submitted by her loving family

Harley, Ona Marie Adkins ~ It is with a sad and broken heart and precious memories that we will write the obituary of our Sweet Mother, Loving Wife, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Dear Friend. Ona Mae Adkins Bartley was born at Fords Branch in Pike County, Kentucky on May 5,1928, the daughter of the late Grady and Minty Brown Adkins. Ona Mae departed this earth on May 11,1995, at the age of 67 years and 6 days. She is preceded in death by her father and mother; two sisters: Margaret and Ruby; four brothers, Lenford, Charlie, Barrett, and Franklin. She leaves to mourn, her husband, Pamerine Bartley, one son, Gregory Dale Bartley of Pikeville, two daughters, Diana Gail Mullins of Pikeville, Linda Elizabeth Thacker of Kimper. Eight grandchildren: Kenneth Gerald and Jason Polmer Mullins; Michael Edward, Latonya Grace and Gregory Chase Batley. Ashley Breanne, Bridgette Renee' and Megan Paige Thacker. Two step-grandchildren: Danny Adkins and Shawna Adkins Hopkins. Two great grandchildren and two step-great grandchildren. Four brothers: Grover, Warren G., Hiram of Fords Branch, Kentucky and Reaford of Dorton, Kentucky. Five sisters: Fayetta May of Pikeville, Ella Harris and Ruth Bartley of Fords Branch, Madge Mullins of Glasgow, Kentucky and Minty Vee Raines of Breaks, Virginia. Ona as a young woman joined the Elizabeth Old Regular Baptist Church at Fords Branch. She filled her seat until the Lord called her Home. She was an active member of her community for many years. She was our Special Angel and a "mother and grandmother" to all. She was a special friend to the late Molly Haste Ramsey (Granny Hayes). We realize that she is gone and can not return but, with the Grace of God we can all see her again. Ona will live in our hearts forever. Sleep on loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Friend until we meet again in a perfect heavenly life.    Written by her broken hearted family and friends.

Flanary, Willie ~ With a sad heart I will try to write the obituary of my dad Willie Flanary. Dad was born November 12, 1898 and passed away June 16, 1993. He was with us 94 years and 7 months. He was the son of Calvin and Rissie Keel Flanary. Dad and Mother (Draxie Osborne Flanary) were married February 18,1921 and raised six children. Irene Shea, Astor Flanary, Jean Williamson, Vernon Flanary, Louise Johnson and Jack Flanary. Dad joined the Old Regular Baptist Church July 3,1949 and was baptized just around from the old home place on Little Robinson Creek. Dad loved to go to church and served as deacon from November 1957 until his death. Dad and Mother worked hard to raise us children. We had to raise most of our food because there was no public work to get. I remember how hard it was for Dad and Mom to get lunch money for us children when we were going to school but they managed to do it. Dad always raised a big garden. I remember when he would raise about a hundred bushels of potatoes and sell them. He enjoyed working his garden and did so until about two years before he passed away. Dad talked many times how hard he worked back years ago when he would cut saw logs and haul staves on a wagon to the rail station. He talked about how cold and the big snows he worked in in the winter, cutting saw logs. The last two years of his life Dad suffered so much. There was nothing the doctor could do because of this age. He was almost 95 years of age when he passed away. I miss Dad so much. He could always tell me about older people and things that happened a long time ago. There are things I would like to ask him now but can't. Dad doesn't have to work hard any more. I believe I will see Dad again. I surely believe he has a home in heaven. Written by his son, Astor Flanary

Frasure, Lora ~ I write this in loving memory of my Mama, Lora Frasure. Mama was 73 years old when the Lord called upon her to take a journey with him. She lived here in Martin for the last 50 years and in that 50 years she shined a light on everyone who knew here. She would always be there to help us, to give us strength, to show us the way, and for this we love her. And thank her for what she did, no matter how small. She wanted nothing more out of us than for us to love one another, and we will miss her very much. She died from a long term illness that had stricken her to the bed for over a year. Even though that she was bedridden she still enjoyed life and to see all her love ones. It's not the same here now that she has passed on, but I know that she is in a better place now and not in any more pain. She was born February 24, 1921 at Risner. She is the daughter of the late Tommy and Lila Ousley Reffit of Risner. Mama was a good woman who worked hard all her life. She grew up in a loving family with her two sisters, Ina May Reffit Thornsberry and Bethel Reffit and one brother, the late Elmer Reffit. They didn't have much back then, but they had love for one another. But things changed for Lora and her family by the age of eleven, The Lord came and called upon her mother Lila. With the loss of her mother the family pulled together and Lora being the oldest, took her place to help with the family. By the age of twenty, Lora took an oath of holy matrimony to her husband, Melvin Frasure, Jr., who she loved and comforted for and with that love they had seven children, Bolena, Gene, Charles, Janet, Diana Sue, and two twins, Phillies and Preticha Frasure. Out of the seven she has one surviving child, Gene Randell Frasure, and through all of the loss, her love for her family grew stronger. Lora was a homemaker. She has been a member of the Cold Springs Regular Baptist Church for over twenty years. She has three grandchildren, Ricky, Keith, and Regina Dawn Frasure all of Martin. And three great grandchildren, Brittany Lynn, Ashton Susanne, and Angelica Renea Frasure. She loved all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren very much. She was a very kind hearted woman, and we thank the Lord for letting us have her. We will miss her soft hand, her loving voice, and the way that she made us feel inside. Our love for her will never die, and one day we will see her again.  Written by her loving grandson, Ricky

Gilliam, Sheena Lynn & Claude Edward Ray ~ Sheena Lynn Gilliam was born April 4, 1991 making her stay 4 years, 3 months and 14 days. Claude Edward Ray Gilliam was born June 11, 1994 making his stay 1 year, 1 month and 7 days. They died Tuesday, July 18, 1995. The daughter and son of Claude and Crystal Hall Gilliam. Grandparents: Lewis Everett and Elaine Rice Hall of Melvin. Thelma M. Newsome Gilliam and the late Raymond C. Gilliam. Great grandmothers: Oma Hall and Edna Rice. Uncles and Aunts: Earnie and Johnny Gilliam, Bruce and Mark Hall, Marvin Williams. Aunts: Vernie Ruth Hall, Katrina Gilliam, Kathy Hall, Martha Sammons and Rhonda Leeds. And all of the great aunts and uncles. Dear God take this message to the babies up above. Tell them that all of us miss them and love them. They were a sweet loving rose. Thank God for the two sweet red roses, like our sweet Sheena and little Claude. Gone but not never to be forgotten. You two are not forgotten little ones. Nor will you ever be. As long as life's memories lasts as will remembering of you two. We miss you two, our hearts are broken. As time goes by, we miss you two more, your loving smiles, gentle and happy faces and the big smiles no one can fill. You're a vacant place in our hearts. Great Aunt Debbie and Cousin Brenda

Hall, Anthony "Tony" ~ Anthony , 86 years old, of Bevinsville, formerly of Salisbury Branch in Knott County passed away February 12, 1987 at Our Lady of the Way Hospital at Martin, Kentucky. He was born on June 11,1901 in Letcher County, to Alex and Clarinda Hall. He was one of seventeen children with two brothers surviving, Bascom and Joe and one sister surviving, Lizzie Holbrook. In 1925, he married Liza Meade. To this union twelve children were born. Six boys and six girls, Ervin, John, Olvin, Clifford, Tony Jr., Tommy, Opal Steele, Martha Sparkman, Sina Thorton, Mary Sue Triplett, Vivian Gayheart and Freda Hayes. He was preceded in death by one son and one daughter, John and Opal. He had several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great- great-grandchildren. A retired coal miner, he was very strong and independent, always doing for himself. Only when his health started going down, could you see the change taking place. Although he never complained, you could see the sickness in his eyes. He then moved to Bevinsville to live with his daughter Mary Sue. Battling cancer, his days grew worse, often he would groan all night long. Although through the pain, frequently he would sing a verse of various gospel hymns such as Amazing Grace. He told his granddaughters the Lord had come into his heart, we knew then we would see him again. Papaw went to be with the Lord one sunny day on February 12, 1987. Written by daughter and granddaughters

Hall, Arnold ~  was born at Lackey, Kentucky on February 22, 1956 and passed away July 23, 1995 at his residence at Raven, Kentucky, making his stay on earth 39 years, 5 months, and one day. He was laid to rest at the Slone Cemetery at Raven. He was the son of the late Sherman Hall and Derona Triplett Hall. He was a member of the Caney Fork Old Regular Baptist Church. He was united in marriage to Beatrice Thornsberry Hall at Raven on July 1, 1990. God blessed them with one daughter, Jennifer Deann. He was preceded in death by his father, brother Garner, and nephew, Randy. He is survived by his wife, his daughter, and his mother, all of Raven, Kentucky. Also surviving is three sisters: Juanita Gibson of Willard, Ohio; Bethel Cooper of Sandusky, Ohio and Lois Ann Coleman of Raven. Also left to mourn his passing is one nephew, one niece, one uncle, four aunts and many other relatives and friends. Although Arnold had cancer for the last 2 and 1/2 years of his life, he said they were the best years for during this time he felt God had saved him and he had a better home to go to. We feel that our loss was Heaven's gain. Arnold was a loving son, brother, husband, father and friend. If he could talk today he would say to seek the Lord and try to meet him in heaven someday. Written by his wife

Hall, Bert & Nola ~ Dad was born June 4,1908 on Little Mud, at Honaker, Kentucky to John and Helen Hall. He was one of 15 children, Johnny, Effie, Ernie, Ettie, Kate, Jerry, Emmit, Laura, Ervin and Virgil; half brothers and sisters, Joe, Lonnie, Lillie and Tack. He passed away He passed away August 22, 1994. Mom was born October 4, 1912 on Spurlock, at Printer, Kentucky to Marion and Sophia Spurlock Roberts. She was one of five children, Ola, Ida, Brigham and Joe. She passed away April 11,1995. Mom and Dad were married on June 9,1928 and together they had eight children: Butler, Richard, Leonard, Clarence, Bobby, Wilma, Edna, and Arcolas. They had 19 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Dad worked as a coal miner and Mom gardened and took care of the children and together they provided a warm and loving home. By their example they taught their children God's commandments. They taught us to love one another, to honor and obey God, to be honest and truthful, and to respect our fellow man. They taught us to be proud of our heritage and to always remember that we were as good as anyone, but better than none. Mom and Dad always welcomed everyone into their home and graciously provided their guests with the best they had available. Mom was a wonderful cook and loved having people enjoy her meals. She always made sure that no one left her home hungry. Many people were blessed by their kindness and generosity. Mom was a gentle woman with a sunny disposition. She enjoyed cooking, growing flowers and vegetables, and canning and preserving food. Dad was a strong man, and handsome, with a terrific sense of humor. He loved telling us stories about his younger days and often made us laugh at some story or joke. Mom and Dad were wonderful, loving parents and partners and I believe theirs was truly a marriage made in heaven. Their love and devotion were an inspiration to their family and to all who knew them. Mom and Dad were members of the Old Beaver Regular Baptist Church at Minnie and were faithful members until their death. I still recall the Bible verses Mom always quoted and they hymns she sang. Amazing Grace was her favorite song and every time I hear it pleasant memories come to mind. It brings me some comfort to believe that Mom and Dad are together now in Heaven, holding hands as they so often did. I am thankful for the time they were here with us and I pray for the grace with which they lived that I may one day join them in the heavenly home they spoke of so often. Written by son, Leonard Hall

Hall, Clifford ~ 58 years old, of Bevinsville, Kentucky, passed away at his home on November 5, 1991 following a long illness. Clifford was formerly from Salisbury Branch at Dema in Knott county, where he was born and raised. Clifford was one of twelve children born to Liza and Anthony (Tony) Hall. He had five brothers: Ervin, John, Olvin, Tony Jr., and Tommy, and six sisters: Opal Steele, Martha Sparkman, Sina Thornton, Mary Sue Triplett, Vivian Gayheart and Freda Hayes. He was preceded in death by his father, one brother and one sister, John and Opal. Although Clifford was never married, he had many friends and family members that cared for him. Clifford's illness extended throughout most of his life. He had frequent brushes with death from surgeries that only the Lord could spare him from. Deep in his heart, he believed in the Lord. Often he would ask his niece to have the church pray from him. Clifford was kind to everyone. The Mercy of the Lord Shall Endureth Forever. Written by the family

Hall, Dallie Isaacs ~ In loving memory and with a sad heart, I write the obituary of my mother, Dallie Sue Isaccs Hall. Dallie was born June 6, 1929 in Dry Creek and was the daughter of the late Richard and Florencie Bates Isaccs. She graduated from Wheelwright High School and attended Caney Creek Junior college and Morehead State Teachers College. Dallie was a school teacher in the Knott County School System for several years, assistant Postmaster at Topmost and was also a bookkeeper for the family mining business. She was a council member of the Kentucky Cancer Program and a Kentucky Colonel. Dallie married Harold Hall on September 1, 1949. They had 3 children, Harold Jr., Bill David, both of Topmost, and Jeffrey of Prestonsburg; 3 grandchildren, Dinah, Melinda and Debbie, all of Topmost. Mom was an inspiration to those that saw her battle her 8 year fight with cancer. She never let it deter her, and she went about her life as if the cancer were just an inconvenience. Until the last 2 to 3 months of her life mom was quite active despite being so ill. Mom would always say, "I just ask Jesus to let me live as long as I can." For as long as I can remember Mom had a strong belief in God, and I'll never forget sitting on her lap and being read Bible stories when I was a little boy. In the last weeks of Mom's life she would tell me "don't cry and not to worry about Momma, because she's alright." In the last days of her life, while surrounded by many friends and family members, she spoke often of seeing the shining lights of Jesus, Jesus came for Mom at her home on May 8, 1995. I know mom is at peace and in no more pain, but she is missed very much.
Written by her son, Jeffrey

Hall, Daniel ~ With the help of the Lord, we will try to write an obituary of our dad and mom's loving husband, Daniel Hall. He was born on August 11, 1921 to Monroe Hall and Ortha Slone. He married Lizzie Mae Gibson, daughter of Bill Gibson and Liddie Thornsberry in 1944. To this union was born eleven children, eight boys, and three girls. He was preceded in death by one son, Adrain and two great grandchildren, Joseph and Jordan. He is survived by seven son, three daughters, fifteen grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Our dad was baptized on September 4,1993. Jesus called him home on April 18,1995. We believe our loss is Heaven's gain.
Written with many loving memories by his broken hearted wife and children

Hall, Jim ~ The sadness that we, the family of Jim Hall, feel at his passing away is also shared with precious memories of his faith and guidance throughout his life. Jim was born April 20,1920 at Hall, Kentucky to Pay and Lillie (Strange) Hall; he passed away on April 27,1995, at home following a lengthy illness. Jim was a World War II veteran, a Kentucky Colonel and a retired coal miner. Jim was married to Ocie (King) Hall on December 15,1944 and to his union was born two children: Anna Faye Hall of London, Kentucky and James Hall Jr. of Plymouth, Ohio. He also leaves behind one grandson, one granddaughter, one great grandson and three great granddaughters. Four brothers and one sister preceded him in death. One of Jim's greatest joys in life was his devotion to his family and sharing his love with all of us. In October, 1977, Jim became a member of Rebecca Old Regular Baptist Church. His faith and love of God gave him so much happiness in life; one of his greatest pleasures was to work at his church and help others who needed him. Even though Jim was sick for a long period before he passed away, he always had a loving testimony of faith in Jesus to share with others. In his passing he spoke of going home and finding eternal love and peace. I will always hold in my heart the memory of the beautiful smile he had when he shared his faith to others. Such a peace is truly worth more than any worldly possessions we may have. Written in loving memory of Jim who will always be known for his faith, loving and caring of others. Written by his daughter, Anna F. Hall

Hall, Lissie ~ With the help of the Good Lord I will write the obituary of Lissie Hall. She was born in Beaver Gap, Kentucky August 13,1905 to the late Henderson and Amy Johnson Hall. Lissie passed away August 9,1995 at Winona Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana making her stay on earth just four days short of 90 years. Lissie was preceded in death by her first husband Sherman Tackett. To this union was born five children. Sons, James Tackett of Lexington, Kentucky, and Sherman Tackett of Indianapolis, Indiana. Daughters, Opal Butterworth, Mae Pettet and Maggie Collins, all of Indianapolis, Indiana. After the death of Sherman, she met and married the late Monroe Hall. To this union was born five children. Two preceded her in death as children, three are still living, Wendell Hall of Indianapolis, Indiana, Wynonna Souers of Texas, Writter Oneal of Louisiana. Lissie had thirty one grandchildren, fifty six great grandchildren, and thirteen great great grandchildren. Lissie also had 6 stepchildren, Darvin and Hage Hall preceded her in death. Still living are Maggie Castle of Tutor, Kentucky, Norma Mullins of Crab Orchard, Kentucky, Clefa Tremble of Brown Morgan, Kentucky, Aggie Mullins of Indianapolis, Indiana. Lissie was a fine and wonderful Mother, Grandmother, great and great great Grandmother. She would help anyone she could and is mourned deeply by her many, many friends and family. There are not enough words to describe the sorrow and emptiness that come with her passing. Lissie made all of our lives happier and better just by knowing her. She had only kindness and love for everyone. Memories of Lissie fill our heart and minds. We will never forget the love we had. We all wish Lissie was still here with us, but the Lord wanted her to come home. We only help to see her again. Our loss is heaven's gain. Written by Ray Griffith by request of Daughter, Opal Butterworth

Hall, Mitchell ~ Mitchell was born March 19,1909, at Kite, Kentucky, to the late Maryland and Mary Bates Hall. He passed from this life on May 21, 1995, at his residence at Topmost, making his stay on earth 86 years, 2 months, and 2 days. On December 22, 1949, Mitchell was married to Azil King of Kite, Kentucky. Unto this union was born three daughters. Mitchell was a member of Union Local #5899, the Island Creek Coal Company for 28 years. At this time he devoted his life to his longtime passion, raising cattle and farming. Few Sundays passed over the past twenty years that Mitchell Hall wasn't seen in church. We feel that his testimony on this earth showed his faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Those left to mourn his passing and share the memories of time spent with him are his loving and faithful wife, Azil King Hall; three daughters, Judy Carol Hall Martin, and Odetta Hall Humphrey of Topmost, and Jan Hall Akers of Bevinsville. He left five grandchildren, all of whom he adored and were joys to his life; James Mitchell Martin, Melissa Denise Humphrey, Kyle Akers, Jennifer Leah Humphrey, and Wesley Tyler Akers. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Dinah Johnson King; five brothers, Hillard and Arlin of Pinetop, Harold of Topmost, Albro of Louisville, and Clay of Florida; three sisters, Jean Hall Barger of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Ethel Hall Conley and Mattie Hall McCain of Springfield, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his mother and father and one brother, Charlie. Mitchell leaves behind a heart broken family and a host of friends who mourn his passing but who take comfort that he is waiting for them in heaven.
Submitted by his heart broken family

Hall, Myrtle Bentley ~ It's with much sadness I'll try to write this obituary of my dear mother-in-law. Myrtle was born October 31, 1941, to the late Joe and Martha Newsome Bentley. Myrtle passed away September 6, 1995, making her stay 53 years. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Arthur Bentley and Clarence Bentley; three infant siblings. She is survived by her husband, Elster Hall; four sons, David Wayne, Dennis Keith, and twin sons, Stacy Dwayne and Tracy Douglas; one daughter, Pamela Christine Bryant. Three brothers, Hayse, Kernie, and Arlin Bentley; two sisters, Hazel Thornsbury and Dorothy Stewardson, four grandchildren, David Joe, Jennifer, Denise, and Breanna Hall. Myrtle was a homemaker and a member of the Little Creek Old Regular Baptist Church for 15 years. She was married to Elster Hall for 35 years. She was a loving mother. She loved not only her children, but her daughter-in-laws and son-in-law as her own. I feel deep in my heart she is at rest. She let her light shine for us all. I would like to say sleep on dear loving mother. We will meet again some sweet day. We love and miss you dearly.
Written by her daughter-in-law and a sister in the Lord, Jean Hall

Hall, Renie ~ My mother went to be with the host of Heaven a year ago today. I was holding her in my arms and witnessed her beautiful death. She started to raise up, and she just reached up for me and was like an angel just reached out and took her so peacefully so gentle what a peace came over her face, and in that house I knew God had sent for her, and she was gone to glory, but I know she is at rest with the Lord and out of pain, I have had several dreams or visions of her walking and running in her new body looking so healthy and full of life. She was in bed for about 14 years. But it was good to have her. When she would get discouraged I would say mom don't you know what it means to us to have you there in that bed to pray for us. And she did many times. I've looked over in the night at her with her hands raised in praise to our Lord. She was always so thankful she loved people. She was a mother to many all who knew her loved her. Now I have more to go to Heaven for and I am waiting my turn. My mom was so very patient in this life. She left us a good example to live by. She was so full of love just like our Lord. Written by her daughter, Pearl Gillespie

Hall, Renie ~ With the help of the good Lord, I will try to write an obituary of my dear sweet sister, Renie Hall, of Dayton, Ohio. I loved my sister so much. She was born in July of 1907. Date of death was August 8,1988. She was good to everyone that she knew. I want to say to her sons, Myrland and Donald, and Beckie and Pattie, Pearl, Raymond and Billy, "If they want to see mother again, they must be born again. I know you all loved her dearly, I loved you all. Pearl is so good to come see us and try on us. I loved my sister so much. I am the only one left in the family.  Written by her sister, Mollie Slone

Hall, Tora ~ In these few lines written nearly 30 years ago, our Mommy Hall has not only written her own obituary, she has left us a beautiful testament, and testimony; of her early life, and of her conversion to Christ Jesus, our Lord and merciful Savior. I will try to write an obituary of myself, Tora Amburgey Hall. I am the daughter of John J. Amburgey and Mary Thornsberry Amburgey. I was born September 15, 1909.1 was married August 18, 1927 to Jerry Hall, the son of Noah and Ealsie Hall, and to this union was born 12 children, which 2 boys died in infancy, raised 10, 5 boys and 5 girls. Boys names: Harlos, Jerry Jr., Charles, Ivan, and Terry. Girls: Jean, Lorraine, Gladys, Lydia, and Mary Yvonne. When my first baby took sick to die, my sins had me loaded down so heavy that I didn't worry about it. I was begging for myself. Just a few days before he died, I was down on my hands and knees, and it seemed like darkness hovered over me. When I started to pray, I said, "Lord, do whatsoever you will with this old body of mine. Just save my soul." The next thing that happened, I was on my feet saying, "bless your name sweet Jesus, bless your good name." Everything was so bright. I felt so light, like a feather, and everything looked good to me. I felt so good that night, I couldn't sleep for praising my Lord, though I wanted to be as sure as I could. I waited about 7 months, asking the good Lord to show me something. In a dream I was at the water, clear as crystal, and I heard a sweet song, and Brother Troy Nickles praying at the bank and I thought Brother Willie Collins and Brother McKinley Moore baptized me there and I thought the water parted out of my face. I couldn't be satisfied much longer. I joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on April 21, 1946. I've been satisfied with the Baptist family ever since. I have never wanted to turn back, their loving touch caused me to want to be closer and closer, although I've got Jesus, I couldn't get any closer, but we could serve him more. Children, if you want to go where I feel I am going, you will have to pray like Mom did. Beg God to forgive you for the past sins you have done. God hears every word you say. I have another thing to say, I feel I have one son, Harlos, who will walk along with Dad and myself who has started to make heaven his home. Written by your Mother, Tora Hall

Hall, Elder Triplett ~ By the help of God, I will try to write the obituary of my dear daddy, Elder Triplett Hall. He was the son of the late Talt and Nannie Hall. He was born March 16, 1909 in Floyd County, and he died February 11, 1995 making his pilgrimage on earth 85 years. He was preceded in death by three wives, Elsie (Newsome) Hall, Fronie (Hamilton) Hall, and Lissie (Brown) Hall. He was also preceded by his brother Hen Hall, and four sisters Lizzie Newsome, Spices Blankenship, Mary Johnson, and Milviene Hall. He is also preceded in death by three sons, Willie Triplett Hall and Carlos Hall and Marilyn Hall. One daughter, Irene Hall (infant). Survivors that are left to mourn our loss are his wife, Elva (Reynolds) Hall. He also leaves to mourn five sons, George Hall of East McDowell, Earl Hall and Ruben Hall both of Hi Hat, Kennith (Sammy) Hall of Beaver, Charles (Cledis) Hall also of Hi Hat. He also leaves four daughters to mourn, Geraldine Bentley and Nadine Tackett both of Beaver, Alpha Hamilton of Teaberry, and Evelyn Taylor of Paintsville. He leaves two brothers, Robert Hall of Robinson Creek and Willie Hall of Hi Hat, and a sister Nellie Newsome of Teaberry. He also leaves to mourn is 36 grandchildren and 37 great grandchildren. Though we mourn, we realize that our loss was heaven's gain. Daddy was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church for 46 years, and an ordained minister at Samaria for 40 years. He joined church on the first Saturday in April, 1949 at Joppa, and the brothering ordained him on June 11,1955. We are so thankful to have a daddy and a papaw like Trip. His life in Jesus was not in vain. It's easy to find fruit of his labor at the Samaria Church. Thanks be to God. Daddy laid down many stones for his family and friends to pick up. He lived a happy and humble life in the Lord. Daddy always like to talk about the bible, but what was most important to him was keeping the old time ways, holding fast the tradition in which we were learned and not moving the lands marks that been set. Surely our loss was heaven's gain. Daddy can't come back to us, but by the Grace of God we can go to him. We'll always love him, miss him, until we meet him again in heaven.   Written by the beloved family of Elder Triplett Hall

Hall, Liza Meade ~ age 88, of Bevinsville, Kentucky passed away on August 20, 1994 at the McDowell Appalachian Regional Hospital following an extended illness. She was born May 16, 1906 in Letcher County, the daughter of John P. Meade and Polly Ann Bentley Meade. In 1925 she married Anthony (Tony) Hall, who preceded her in death in 1987. To this union 12 children were born, 6 boys and 6 girls. The sons are: Ervin, John, Clifford, Olvin, Tony Jr., and Tommy. The daughters are: Opal Steele, Martha Sparkman, Sina Thornton, Mary Sue Triplett, Vivian Gayheart and Freda Hayes. Three children preceded her in death: Opal, John and Clifford. She had 37 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and several great, great grandchildren. Liza lived most of her life at Salisbury Branch at Dema in Knott County, until her health started to deteriorate, then she moved to Bevinsville to live with her daughter Mary Sue. The last 5 years of life were very hard. A stroke had left her confined to a bed. Although her health was poor, her memory was intact. She frequently talked of old times and how she was raised. Although not a member of a church, she told her daughter and granddaughters she felt the Lord had forgiven her and came into her heart. She would often cry when she spoke of the Lord. On August 20,1994, she went to sleep peacefully to be with the Lord, with her family gathered at her beside. She will be forever missed by family and friends. Written by her daughter and granddaughter

Hamilton, Goldie Hall ~ It is with a sad and lonely heart that I shall attempt to write the obituary of my dear sweet mother. She was born September 8,1908 at Teaberry, a daughter of the late Alex and Mary Hamilton Hall Tackett. She was preceded in death by two husbands, Jay Lee Hamilton and Bert Hamilton. She was a member of the Samaria Regular Baptist Church. Surviving are five sons, Jay Lee Hamilton of Beaver, Eugene Hamilton, Ralph Hamilton, and Lee Roy Hamilton all of Teaberry, and Don Hamilton of Taylor, Michigan; four daughters, Shirley Reynolds and Vickie L. Hamilton Bryant, both of Beaver, Lakie Johnson of Teaberry, and Magdalene De Villez of Riverview, Michigan, a brother Virgil Ray of Pikeville, a sister, Becky Hall of Galveston, 28 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren and 11 great, great grandchildren. Mommy always had a warm smile and a warmer welcome to all who came her way. She was dearly loved by family and friends alike. Her loss has left an empty place in all our hearts that can never be filled, but we know that our loss is heaven's gain and that a beautiful new flower has bloomed in God's Precious Garden. 
Written by her loving daughters, Shirley Reynolds and Vickie L. Hamilton Bryant

Hamilton, Goldie Hall ~ It is with much sadness that I will write an obituary of my mother, Goldie Hall Hamilton. She was born September 8, 1908. A daughter of the late Alex and Mary Hamilton Hall Tackett. She passed away on March 27, 1994. She was also preceded in death by two husbands, Jay Lee Hamilton and Bert Hamilton. Also, one daughter, Dorthy Hamilton. Surviving are five sons, Eugene Hamilton of Teaberry, Jay Lee Hamilton of Beaver, Ralph Hamilton, and Leroy Hamilton, both of Teaberry, and Don Hamilton of Taylor, Michigan. Four daughters, Magdaline DeVillez of Riverview, Michigan, Lakie Johnson of Teaberry, Shirley Reynolds, and Vickie Lynn Bryant, both of Beaver. A brother, Virgil Ray of Pike and a sister, Becky Hall, of Galveston. 28 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, and 9 great, great grandchildren. She was a member of Samaria Regular Baptist Church. Mom loved everyone. She was good to all her neighbors, friends, and those all that came to visit her should have coffee and eat before they could leave. She always had food on the stove. She lost both of her husbands early in marriage. She had a hard life, but she never complained. She reared ten of us children. I truly miss not being able to go home anymore, and sitting with mom on the porch on Sunday evening. We can take solace in the fact that she is at rest and her suffering and worries, pain in this world is over. My hope and prayer is that all of her children will strive to change their lives and turn to our saviour Jesus Christ to get cleansed of their sins. So they can rest with mommy under her throne of God. She can't come back to us, but by the Grace of God, we can go to be with mom and have Joy and Peace in that Beautiful and Blessed Forever.  Written by a sad broken hearted son, Eugene Hamilton and his family

Hamilton, Ivelee ~ In loving memory of our mother and grandmother, Ivelee Hamilton, who passed away at the age of 102, July 26, 1994. She was born April 15, 1892, in Pike County, Kentucky, and was the daughter of John and Louise K. Adkins Roberts. She was one of nine children. She married Lawrence Hamilton when she was 14 and he was 20. They resided at Amba, Kentucky, and had 14 children. They were married 65 years when her husband preceded her in death in December, 1971. She was baptized into the New Salem Church at Harold, Kentucky, in July, 1937. She was deeply religious and contributed her long life to her faith in God and the good life she lived. She saw a century of change from 2 major wars and 19 presidents to the invention of the automobile, airplane, atomic bomb, and electricity! However, her faith in God and beliefs never changed. She was a wonderful homemaker and was known for the many quilts she had made and continued to make through her 102nd birthday. She is survived by five sons, Millard Hamilton and Bob Hamilton, both of Harold, Kentucky, Frank Hamilton of Orangeberg, South Carolina, Charles Hamilton of  Wellington, Ohio, and Curt Hamilton of Bellevue, Ohio; two daughters, Esta Wicker, Bellevue, Ohio, and Dolly Jones of Grand Prairie Texas; 61 grandchildren; 128 great grandchildren, and 35 great, great grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by four sons, Albert, Tolva, Noah, and Fred Hamilton; three daughters, Gertrude, Flora, and Myrtle; her parents; four grandchildren, one brother, Sam Adkins, and four sisters, Gracie Hamilton, Bertha Hamilton, Nora Roberts, and Kate Coomer. We were blessed to have had such a wise and precious person with us so long. We will miss her greatly. We can only hope to live our lives as good and religiously as she did. In Loving Memory, Your Family

Hamilton, Josephine Stepp ~ By the help of God, I will try to find the words that would justify what a truly caring and loving mother and grandmother Josephine was. She was born August 26, 1914 at Galveston, Kentucky. She was the daughter of the late Robert and Martha (Hamilton) Stepp. Early in her life she met and married Freeman Hamilton on February 9,1932. The Lord blessed this couple with seven children. Her husband, Freeman, preceded her in death on July 12, 1969. Also two sons preceded her in death: Edgar and Arthur. Left to mourn her loss are two daughters, Edna M. Hamilton of Virgie, Kentucky and Lorraine Lester of Richlands, VA. Three sons: Jay Hamilton of Pikeville, Kentucky, Thomas R. Hamilton of Virgie, Kentucky, and Robert E. Hamilton of Virgie, Kentucky, eighteen grandchildren, and twenty great grandchildren. Mom also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Mom was preceded in death by two sisters and one brother. There is so much I would like to say about my mother but it is so hard to find the right words because she was a wonderful mother and a unique person. My mother and I became very close her last years on earth. My mother and I was very blessed because after spending three weeks in the hospital the Lord allowed her to come back home for six days before she passed away on September 4, 1995. My mother will always be remembered with special memories and thoughts in my heart. Mom, you will be missed by your whole family. We hope someday to meet you again in heaven. Until then you are in our hearts. We love you.   Written in loving memory of our mother, Edna Hamilton

Hamilton, Lizzie ~ I will try to write this obituary of my dear sister which I loved so dearly. She was born August 26, 1914 and passed away May 15, 1993. She would call me every night. She told me she cried and prayed every night for me and her children. She loved them so much. She called and told me she was ready to go, that sure was good news for me. I loved her so good. I will say to John, her husband, and children, Charlie Dotson, Tolvie, Donald Ray, Emmit, Bobby Jr., Rickey, Norma, Alleen, and little Margie, "If you all want to see mommy again, you have to look to the good Lord and be born again." You all know how good she was and loved you all. She was good to all she knew. So, sleep on my sweet sister 'till we meet again. Written by her sister, Mollie Slone

Hamilton, Willie ~ With the help of the Lord, I will try to write the obituary of Willie Hamilton, a loving husband, father, and grandfather. On September 19, 1915, Willie Hamilton was born to the late William and Linda Hamilton of Teaberry, Kentucky. Willie departed this earth on April 20, 1994. On October 5,1940, Willie married Edna Lucille Newsome of Pike County, Kentucky. He was a loving father to 8 children; Efford Hamilton of Roanoke, Indiana, Gary Dale, and Terry Jerome Hamilton, both of Teaberry, Gerldine Newsome and Billie Joyce Isaccs both of Teaberry, Sue Fuller of Burr Oak, Michigan, and Janet Hall of Bellveue, Ohio. Also, Leroy who preceded him in death. Willie also left behind fifteen grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, 3 sisters, Oma Hamilton of Teaberry, Kentucky, Effie Kiser of Caney Creek, Kentucky, and Etta Callipari of Ashtabula, Ohio, along with a host of relatives and friends who will never forget Willie. Poppy was a retired coal miner, store merchant, and a farmer who worked hard to ensure that his family never went without. Poppy began talking to the Lord earnestly after discovering he had the dreaded disease cancer. For two years prior to his death, Poppy prayed and three months before he died, Poppy said the Sweet Lord had forgiven him of his sins, and he was ready to walk the streets of gold with his wonderful Savior. Even though Poppy never joined an earthly church, his name was written in the Lamb's Book of Life, Poppy knew then he was Heaven Bound and that was all that matter. Willie and I had our disagreements like all people who spend over fifty years together, but we had love, and as the years accumulated, we had a special understand between the two of us. Four days before Willie departed this earth, he expressed to me his regret that he had not allowed the Lord to enter his heart and life sooner. He assured me if he had that we would have spent many days together going to church and serving the Lord. A special thanks to Brother Ruben and Sister Etta May Baker, Bill, Jerry, Harvey Estep, Brother Bill and Sister Mildred Hall, and to my son, Terry Jerome, and grandson, Ishmael Glen.
Written by his loving wife, Edna Lucille and granddaughters, Corinne and Carrie

Harris, Irene ~ Irene was the daughter of the late Joseph Crate Gibson and Ella Blanton Gibson. She was born January 18, 1921 at Harold, Kentucky and departed this life on December 20, 1994, making her stay on this earth 73 years, 11 months and 2 days. On January 10, 1938, she married Robert Harris. Unto this union was born ten children including 3 sets of twins. One set, Imogene and Emogene preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband, Robert and eight children, Ballard, Phillis Slone, Reva Harris, Charlene Caudill, Darlene Mullins, and Irene Moore, Robert Kay and Eloise Ward. She also leaves 14 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Two brothers and a sisteralso preceded her in death, Jim, Dallas, and Othel Dale. She is survived by one brother, Estill and one sister, Jackie Gillum. She joined Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church on December 15,1968, and was baptized on the first Sunday in February 1969. I can hear her say, "children don't worry about me when I die, I'm going to a better place." Mommy, I will never forget the day you left us. When I got to the hospital and took you by the hand, I knew the Lord was calling you home. I feel your arms so warm around me yet. When I visit your grave, I say "sleep on Mommy, I will meet you in heaven." Daddy and all of us should look to the Lord and trust in Him so we can share in that glorious reunion in heaven. All of my brothers and sisters should not forget to keep pretty flowers on Mom's grave. Sleep on Mommy, rest in God's care until we meet again on that great resurrection morning. We love and miss you so much. You will always be in our hearts. 
Written by her broken hearted husband and children 

Haskell, Connie ~ Greatly saddened by her recent death, I write this obituary of my dear sister Connie Moore Haskell. Connie, Tink to many of her relatives and close friends, passed away October 5, 1995 at her home in Reynoldsburg, Ohio. She had just turned 46 in August. Tink was an elementary school teacher for the Reynoldsburg City Schools. She loved working with her students and devoted most of her energy helping children become better readers. Even as she battled the cancer that would eventually and her life, Tink continued to further her education, and, just a few days before her death, she was awarded a Master of Education Degree. I wish she could have lived to see the diploma she had worked so diligently to acquire. Tink was preceded in death by her father, Walker Moore, a brother, Harold Gene Moore, and a sister, Rosalie McCloud. She is survived by two sons, Jonathan Paul and David Louis Haskell; her mother, Annie Moore Johnson; two brothers, Clinton (Irene) Moore and Danny Moore, and a sister, Anita (Larry) Hines. As I am grieved by the loss of my dear sister, I am also comforted by the warm thoughts I have about this loving individual. Tink was a special person to me. She was not only my sister, she was a friend who helped me through turbulent times in my life. She was a positive-thinking person who always had time for those who needed her attention. Her kindness and concern for others was evident in how she lived her life. She will be greatly missed by all those whom she touched. Tink knew the value of prayer and she loved the Lord. She showed much courage as she fought for her life, and, she gained courage through her prayers and her faith in Jesus. Not long before her death, Tink talked about praying and said she felt at ease with her relationship with God. I was happy hearing that then, and now, even in my grief, I get a warm feeling just thinking that someday we can be reunited in Heaven. Tink, you put up a struggle, you fought a courageous fight and we admired your strength through it all. Now, at peace and feeling no more of the pain, you have won your reward! I end my sweet sister's story with words written in Psalms: "My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord, and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever."

Hensley, Earnest & Dorothy (Little) ~  It is with sad hearts that we, the eleven children of Earnest (July 9,1924-May 7,1993) and Dorothy (November 28,1925- April 22,1991) write of their life, that blessed us so much and their loss, even though they are heaven bound, left us broken hearted. Mom and Dad were married April 7,1943, they spent 48 years together. They loved every minute they spent with their children, friends, and neighbors. They were always there for anyone who needed help. We lost Mom first, the saddest day of our lives. Mom was the greatest Mom, person, and friend to us. She was always cleaning, cooking and doing things for us, we were her happiness, all she needed. While we were still in our beds in the mornings she would sing as she would make gravy and biscuits for us. Mom your gentle smile, voice and loving arms will always be seen, heard and felt by us. We feel Heaven will never welcome a sweeter Mom. Our second saddest day came on May 7,1993, when we lost our Dad. Daddy worked in the coal mines for 33 years to provide for Mom and us children. He would come home from work in the summer and work in the garden. He made sure his children had a good home, food and clothes. When Dad had time he loved to go fishing. Any of us children that saw Dad catch a fish would be so happy, that one-sided smile of his let us know he was happy. Dad we'll never forget your smile that put so much joy in our hearts. We feel that Dad is resting by the river. Mom and Dad was always there for us and led us every step of the way to the right path. The Lord was always first in their hearts. They left their earthly home to go to their Heavenly Home where our Family Circle will be rebuilt. We Praise Our Lord for the many blessings and the gift of our Mom and Dad. With hearts full of love and precious memories.  Your children, Cecil, Christine, Gloria, Brenda, Jimmy, Larry, Regina, Wanda, Linda, Ronnie, Tammy, grandchildren and great grandchildren

Hicks, Drexie ~ In loving memory of Drexie Hicks, gone, but not forgotten, you live in our hearts forever. It is with a sad and broken heart that I will attempt to write an obituary of my dear wife, Drexie Hicks. She was born May 13,1911 in Floyd County, Kentucky and departed this life January 28, 1995. In early life she was married to Estel Whitt. They had 6 children, 3 daughters, Geraldine, who is deceased, Janice and Sue of Phoenix, Arizona, 3 sons, Robert, who is deceased, Jack and Charles of Phoenix, Arizona. Estel Passed away some years ago. In June of 1976 she married Monroe Hicks of Phoenix, Arizona. She was a member of Ancient of Arizona Old Regular Baptist Church for many years. She had several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and a lot of friends who miss her very much. We used to sit and talk about the Lord and how good he is.  Written by her beloved husband and a very good friend, Elder Monroe Hicks and Brother Eugene Moore

Honaker, Henry ~ With the help of God, we will try to write an obituary of our son and brother, Henry Honaker. Henry was born at Little Creek, Pike County, Kentucky, on April 12,1944, to Raymond Honaker and Oma Damron Honaker. He passed from this life on June 14,1995, at the age of 51 years. His father preceded him in death on August 25, 1975. Surviving are his mother, two sons, Lee Honaker and Henry Honaker, Jr., three daughter, Lou Scott, Naomi Hall, and Henrietta Honaker, all of Michigan. Three brothers, Rufus Honaker of Arnoldsburg, W.Va., Elder Teddy Honaker of Little Creek, and Randall Honaker of Nashville, Tennessee; four sisters, Ella Leonia Gowin of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Odera Compton of Little Creek, Ruby Poole of Upper Sandusky, Ohio, and Connie Damron of Circleville, Ohio; four grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, friends, and relatives who miss him very much. Henry went to Michigan in 1965 where he worked at Brooks Foundry at Albion, Michigan until they shut down. His kidneys failed and he had to be on a dialysis machine three times a week for several years. He loved the Old Regular Baptist Church. He loved hunting, fishing, and going to yard sales. We miss Henry very much here on earth, but we hope we all will be together some sweet day when God calls us home to a land where we will never more part. Written by his mother, Oma Honaker; Sister, Odera Compton; and brother, Elder Teddy Honaker

Howell, Albie ~ It is with a lot of sadness and a truly broken heart I will attempt to write an obituary of a dearly beloved dad and grand-dad. Albie Howell (known as L.B. Howell), 52, of McDowell, died Monday, May 23, 1994 at Our Lady of the Way Hospital, following an extended illness. Born October 17, 1941 at Grethel, he was the son of the late Butler and Lizzie Evans Howell. He was a disabled coal miner. Survivors include his wife, Judy Tackett Howell; one son, Albie Howell Jr. of McDowell; one daughter, Delana Howell of McDowell; one brother, Foster Howell of Grethel; one sister, Elva Hall of Stanton; five half sisters, Elva Hall of Harold, Evalene Akers of Galveston, Irene Kiser and Ruby Keathley, both of Teaberry, and Mary Newsome of Price; and two grandchildren. I want to be like dad and have all my suffering here on earth. Our hearts are all broken and our homes will never be the same, but if dad could speak he would say be good children, seek the Lord and try to meet me in heaven some day. But, by the grace of God some day I will join my sweet dad, and dear savior in that land where there will be no more suffering.
Written by a broken hearted son and daughter, Albie Howell Jr. and Delana Howell

Howell, Tandy ~ By the request of the children of Brother Tandy Howell, I will try by the help of the good Lord, to write this obituary. Brother Tandy was born in Floyd County, October 25, 1913 and departed this life January 8, 1995, making his stay on earth 81 years, 2 months and 14 days. He was the son of the late Will and Alice White Howell. At a young age he met and married Sister Doshia Adams. They were married, and were blessed to live together for more than 65 years. They were blessed with 7 children. In addition to his wife Doshia, he was preceded in death by four of his children. Three sons, Robert Lee, Anthony, and Bill Howell and by one daughter, Martha Young. Brother Tan is survived by one son, Jack Howell of Island Creek, and two daughters, Lou Ramsey and Nannie Madden both of Island Creek. He is also survived by 25 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and one great, great granddaughter. After the death of his wife, Brother Tan married Sister Sible Ramey Howell. They were only blessed to be together for a very short while before his death. Brother Tandy was a retired farmer. He had also been employed by the Pike County School systems. He worked around the Mullins School for several years. He was a member of the Island Creek Old Regular Baptist Church. He joined the Island Creek Church August 17,1975. He served as a Deacon of the church for several years until his death. Brother Tan and Sister Doshia loved the Church and they filled their seats as long as they were able. They are greatly missed by the Church. Brother Tan leaves a number of beloved relatives and a host of friends who will regretfully mourn his passing. His memory will live on in the hearts and minds of each and every one who knew and loved him. Written by his brother in hope, Robert T. Charles

Huff, Sister Lillie ~ died 1995

Isaacs, Mae ~ Mae Isaacs, the daughter of the late Foster Salyers and Dona Hall Salyers was born January 2,1915 and died June 27,1995 making her stay on earth 80 years, 5 months, and 27 days old at the time of her death. In early life Mae met and was united in marriage to Virnus Isaacs, who preceded her in death in 1987. Unto this union was born five daughters, Mabel Childers, Brookville, Ohio, Doris Dawson, Coshocton, Ohio, Yvonne Howard, Mousie, Kentucky, Phyllis Herald, Louisville, Kentucky, and June Van Lear, Verona, Virginia. She leaves to mourn her passing, besides her daughters, her five sons in law, Sid Childers, Larry Dawson, Ralph Howard, Walter Herald, and Larry Van Lear, one grandson, Greg. Five granddaughters, Jodi, Shellie, Greta, Tricia and Nicole. She also has one great granddaughter, Courtney. One sister, Beulah Hall, Topmost, Kentucky and a host of relatives and friends. One great grandson, Zachary, preceded her in death. Mae, who was born and raised on Dry Creek of Right Beaver, married and raised her family there. Mae, who has been in failing health for quite a few years, finally came to the point she was not longer able to stay by herself. She has been living with her daughters for the past five years. She always was glad to come back home to visit with her neighbors and friends. Mae, who always liked to go to church, never did attach herself to the church but did tell Yvonne that she felt she was alright with God. Her desire was to be kept the last night on earth at the Providence Church. This testimony leaves me to believe that our loss is heaven's gain.  Written upon request by Elder Ralph Howard

Johnson, Arnie Hall ~  Arnie Hall Johnson, wife of Talt Johnson, was born March 30, 1916 to Betsy Holbrook Hall and Monroe Hall in Knott County, Kentucky and passed away June 25, 1995 at the Highlands Regional Medical Center in Prestonsburg, Kentucky. She began her walk with the Lord on May 17, 1970 and was baptized the first Sunday in June 1970 at the Joppa Church at Melvin, Kentucky. Arnie and Talt were married on December 24,1936 and to this union were born five children: Benjamin Johnson of Lexington, NC; Donald Johnson of Printer, KY; Wilma McKay of Bevinsville, KY; Ronnie Johnson of Melvin, KY, and Roger Johnson of Bevinsville, KY. Arnie has 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren who survive. She has one living sister, Maggie Hall of Price, Kentucky and one brother Woodrow Hall of Bevinsville, Kentucky who also survive. Five sisters preceded her in death; Sarah Jane Johnson, Lillian B. Fleming, Annie Hall, Hazel Jones, and Liza Little. Arnie always greeted everyone at the door. Her favorite room in her home was the kitchen and was sort of the meeting place in the summer and holidays for everyone to see each other. She always had food and homemade candy. She was devoted to her children and grandchildren and she made difference between her children and her in-laws and all agree that she treated them equal. She was a cherished grandmother. And she touched the lives of everyone who met her. She will never be forgotten by those who knew her. She will forever remain in the hearts of her husband, children, grandchildren, sisters, brother and nieces, and nephews.
Written by her daughter-in-law, Colleen Johnson

Johnson, Franklin & Virgie ~ It is with many precious memories that I write this obituary of my aunt and uncle. Virgie Lee Johnson passed away on March 16,1994 after a long illness. She was the daughter of dock and Lourena Hall Johnson. She was born on December 13, 1901, at Weeksbury, Kentucky. She is survived by two sisters, Bertha Tackett and Delia Cole of Weeksbury, and two brothers, Willie Johnson and Ernest Johnson of Weeksbury. She was preceded in death by five sisters and four brothers. Franklin Dewey Johnson passed away on August 16, 1995, following a short illness. He was born on December 14, 1899, to Jefferson and Ruby Riddle Johnson, at Weeksbury. He was preceded in death by seven brothers. He is survived by three nieces - Helen Condron of South Carolina, Madge Swindler of Louisville, Kentucky, and Cleo Creech of Florida. Uncle Dewey earned his living as a C & O Railroad Worker. I was always amazed to hear him tell of walking across the hills to Wheelwright and back to go to work. Aunt Virgie and Uncle Dewey were united in marriage for seventy years. Even though they had no children of their own, they always loved and enjoyed their many nieces and nephews. They were a wonderful influence on our lives. My aunt and uncle attended church as often as possible. Uncle Dewey became a member of the Joppa Regular Baptist Church in November, 1989. After Aunt Virgie passed away Uncle Dewey found great comfort in going to church and in the promise of being reunited with her again in Heaven. Aunt Virgie and Uncle Dewey were totally devoted to each other. Their birthdays were even on adjoining days. They were an inspiration to all that knew them because of their independence and hard work. A visit to their house was rewarded with smiles, pleasant conversation, a tasty meal, and maybe a trip to their beloved pond to feed the fish. They will be sadly missed by each life that they touched.

Johnson, Wid ~ I pray that Jesus will guide my hand to write an obituary of a darling husband, precious daddy and loving grandfather. Wid Johnson, 76 years of age, of Virgie, Kentucky, passed away February 9, 1995. He was born January 14, 1919 to the late Willard Johnson and Rose Hall Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Zettie Tackett Johnson, his mother, Rosie Hall Johnson, 4 sons, Roger Lee, Truman, Edley and Randy Lee. Three daughters, Josephine, Anita Faye and Susan Carol. Three children who preceded him in death, Loretta, Gary Phillip, and Barbara Joan. Two sisters: Imogene Tackett and Katherine Johnson. 11 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, 5 step great grandchildren and 8 step great, great grandchildren. At a home meeting on a cold February day, he told the brethren what great things the Lord had done for him and he wanted to be a part of God's great church. He was baptized by Elder Joe Jones and Elder Sid Hudson. He became a precious member of the Enterprise church for 45 years until February 9th when the Lord called him home. He spent much time in the mountains, not only hunting for game, but also communicating with the Lord. Our home may have been poor in worldly goods, but it was rich in heavenly treasures. We had love that only God could give. If we could talk to daddy now, he would tell us of his great joy in the paradise of God. We must remember how happy daddy is now and try to think of him in the arms of Jesus. Until we meet again in heaven.  Written by his loving family

Jones, Lillie Ernestine Cook ~ Lillie E. Jones was born August 21, 1917 at Dry Creek, Kentucky. She died December 24, 1994 at the Hazard Appalachian Regional Hospital following a short illness, making her stay on earth 77 years, 4 months, and 3 days. She was the daughter of the late Albert L. Cook and Cora Osborne Cook. She married Thomas Tilden Jones on March 18,1939. To this union were born three children, one daughter preceded her in death, Edith Jones Lidster. Her husband also preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by four brothers: Nesmer, Edward, James, and Raymond and two sister: Mavis and Ollie Ladig. Left to mourn her passing are one son: Ray Jones of Bevinsville, Kentucky, one daughter: Martha Jones Tufts of Morehead, Kentucky, one daughter-in-law, Sue Jones, one son-in-law, William R. Tufts, three grandchildren: Thomas Edward Tufts, Sharon Lenore Riggsby, and Crystal Lynn Jones, three sisters: Emma Lou Martin of Topmost, Kentucky, Emmarine Moore of Monroe, Michigan, and Aster Berthold of Medina, Ohio, two brothers: Jellin Cook of Topmost, Kentucky and Elgin Cook of Dema, Kentucky. She also leaves three great grandchildren: Rebecca Tufts, Thomas Randall Tufts, and Aaron Riggsby. She also leaves a host of relatives and friends. Mommy joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on February 27, 1937 at Providence and was baptized by Elder Ellis Hopkins on March 28,1937. She remained a faithful member there until her death. Mommy was a member of the Church for almost fifty-eight years. We miss our Mother but we are thankful for the many memories she leaves us such as the unselfish way she would put her family's needs ahead of her own, the way she was always concerned about her family, the way she would work to help her church, the high regard that all her neighbors had for her and the fine example her life set for us to follow. Written by her son, Ray Jones

Justice, Danny Ray "Dee" Jr. ~ With a sad and broken heart, I will try to write an obituary of my precious nephew. He was born June 22,1977 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Denise and Danny Ray Justice. He had one sister Tamela. He died July 10,1995 at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky. Making his stay here on earth 18 years and 18 days. The final resting place is in the Newman Cemetery, Hi Hat, Kentucky. He was a student at the South Floyd High School. His grandparents were Doffie and Kanzella Justice of Ligin, Kentucky and Betty and the late Curt Newman of Melvin, Kentucky. His aunts and uncles were, Curtis Keith Newman, Jr., Donna Ramsey and Debbie Hall of Mevin, Linda Fay Tackett of Ligon, Kentucky, Eddie Justice, Doffie Jr. of River Rouge, Michigan, Glenda Mitchell and Brenda Johnson both of Michigan. Dee will be sadly missed by all who knew him and loved him. We all loved him and miss him. He was a loving and sweet rose. Thank God for a rose like Dee. Gone but not forgotten.  We will always miss you.  Written by his aunt, Debbie Hall

Justice, Joe ~ Joe Justice, my father, died Thursday, September 29, 1994 at the age of 82. I'm often told how lucky I am to have had him that long with his health as good as it was. I know in my head this is true, but my heart still cries for more time. Joe Justice was born June 17, 1912 in Prestonsburg, KY to Hager Lee and Sarah (Atkins) Justice. He married Anna Mae Johnson September 19,1935 in Floyd County, KY. Mom died April 13,1992. Dad was a coal miner for 13 years. When he injured his back in the mines in 1955, we moved to Indiana. He worked at whatever he could to bring in money to support ten children until he went to work at Peabody Retirement Community in 1960. Dad retired from there in 1970. Dad was a member and deacon of the Northern Little Dove Old Regular Baptist Church of Sidney, IN. Dad leaves behind to mourn our loss five daughters and five sons. They are: Mrs. David (Perlie

Kidd, Rena ~ It is with a very heavy heart of sorrow and a humble mind, I will attempt to write an obituary of the only mommy I ever knew to wit: Rena Elizabeth Boyd Kidd of Harold, Kentucky. Rena was the daughter of the late John Wesley and Rebecca Case Boyd of Dana, Kentucky. Born November 17,1915 and deceased this life April 11, 1995. At the age of 24 years old Rena was married to Green B. Kidd and to this union was born one daughter Maudie Alice Peterson of Keizer, Oregon. In the year of 1958 at the age of 7 months old they took Katie Lynn, one of their granddaughters into their home, adopted her and cherished her as their own. This child no doubt brought Rena more joy and satisfaction than any other thing in life. Rena was a homemaker, and wife. She often would talk to me about her childhood of how she would go to church walking across the hill. Rena was the only mommy I ever knew. I was only about 22 months old when she and my daddy got married. She always said when I would talk to her about my mommy she would say Edd you had a good mommy. She was a giver, Rena had a hard life working on the farm and trying to make a home for the family. Although some of the children may think otherwise she did love all of her stepchildren and always up held them when they were criticized and I know each one misses pop but we will miss her very bad also. Rena was preceded in death by her husband, Green B. Kidd, February 3,1991; one son, Amanford Lee Boyd who lost the battle to cancer August 3, 1982; one stepson, Charlie Lee Kidd, who was killed in a car accident July 24, 1960, one stepdaughter, Verlie Jarrell, who also lost the battle to cancer May 4, 1989, six brothers and two sisters. She is survived by 2 daughters, Katie Lynn Boyd of Harold, Kentucky and Maudie Alice Peterson of Keizer, Oregon, 9 stepchildren, 1 brother Cam E. Boyd of Prestonsburg, Kentucky; 12 grandchildren, many great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, friends, neighbors, relatives, and brothers and sisters in the church to mourn her passing. Rena desired to give her hand to become a member of The Little Salem Church. We had a called meeting at Katie and Toddy's where she made her home. At the end of the services she gave her hand and told a wonderful experience. Brother Dennis and I, assisted by Brother Gordon Boyd baptized her. She was so pleased and continually prayed. Katie, Alpha, Dennis and I stood by her and watched her surrender to her last enemy death. My precious beloved brothers and sisters, nephews, nieces, relatives, friends and neighbors we will miss Rena I know, but our loss is heaven's gain. I do dearly love all of you. So farewell Rena for a season I will never forget the tender touch of your hand soothing my pains. I love you.
Written by your broken hearted stepson, Clarence E. Kidd

King, Sarah ~ It is with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, I try to write this obituary of my dear departed wife, Sarah Carrie King. Sarah is the daughter of the late Fess Noble and Rushie (Holbrook) Noble. Sarah was born on March 31,1924 and passed from this life the 6th day of March, 1993. Making her stay on earth 68 years, 11 months, and 6 days. She met and married Cratie King on April 18,1945. Unto this union was born one son, Arviel Gene King of Belleville, MI. She also is survived by two granddaughters and three step grandchildren. Also surviving are three brothers: Homas Noble of Irvine, KY, Roosevelt Noble of Cleveland, OH, and Tommy Shehee of Jenkins, KY. One sister Juanita Kisier of Hazard, KY. One sister who preceded her in death, Billy Gene Webb. Sarah joined the church February 18,1967 and was baptized April 4,1967. We feel about the hour 12:15 God sent a little band of angels who carried her away to a place already prepared for her where she is free from pain and sorrow. We believe she has found eternal happiness in that heavenly home. We believe she is in the hands of God and what better place can there be for a humble mother and wife such as she. Her loving memory and spirit will remain with us to guide us through life. She was not only a wife and mother, but the greatest friend a person could have. Written by Cratie King

Kiser, Slimp ~ With a saddened heart but fond memories we will try to write this obituary of Slimp Kiser. Slimp Kiser was born June 7, 1909 in Virgina to Offie Kiser and Elizabeth Newsome Kiser. He passed from this life to go on to a better place April 6,1995. He had been sick for eight years. He left behind a loving and faithful wife of sixty-seven years, Bertha Jones Kiser. They were married August 20,1927, also his four children, Claude Kiser of Centerville, Ohio, Robert Kiser of Huber Heights, Ohio, Dora Ogden of Sidney, Ohio, and Mary Marshall of New Lebanon, Ohio, twelve grandchildren, twenty-three great grandchildren, four great, great grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews and two sisters-in-law. He led a good Christian life and loved the church. He became a member of the Bethlehem Old Regular Baptist Church many years ago where he was a deacon. He was strong in his faith, kind, and hard working, a good father, grandfather, and husband. He will be sadly missed by all of us whom enjoyed the pleasure of knowing him, but we believe that where he is now he won't have to suffer anymore. It will be a better place where there is no sorrow or pain, and if we believe as strong and faithful as he did, someday we may all meet again. Written by his loving wife, Bertha Kiser, and granddaughter

Kiser, Elder Taulbee ~ son of the late Arsno and Martha Hamilton Kiser was born in Floyd County, Kentucky April 19,1913. Was blessed to live upon God's earth 81 years, 9 months, a life of which he used wisely, honoring and serving the Lord for many years. His flame of life ceased to burn on January 18, 1995 at his home in Lancaster, Ohio. Where he had resided for the last 9 years, after leaving his native hill country of Eastern Kentucky. Was a retired miner. On September 8, 1934 he became a faithful and devoted husband of a fine young woman of Pike County, Kentucky, Nellie Branham. They were devoted and loving of each other for 60 years. God blessed them with the following children who survive, Walk of Lancaster, OH, Hebert of Ashville, OH, Edith Pounders of Sandusky, OH, Nadine Boyles of Orlando, FL, Wanda Kiser of Columbus, OH, Beulah Perkins of Catlettsburg, KY, 12 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren. Survived by one sister, Hattie Bowling, one brother Elder Hatler Kiser both of Pike County, Kentucky. Preceded in death by brothers: Luther, Sollie, Duran, Floyd, Sisters: Rosa, Louvene, Becky, Ella, Birtha. On February the 3rd, Saturday 1936 he was baptized into full love and fellowship of the Caney Creek Old Regular Baptist by the hands of the late Elders Draxel Bowling and Sollie Kiser. Later moved his letter to the Bethlehem Church. In 1942 he was ordained as a elder, going far and near telling of the goodness of the Lord, was a great inspiration to me, had a wonderful memory of the old brothers and Associations. A few days before his departure he said, "I have a hope, and that hope is Jesus." To Aunt Nell and his children remember the life he lived, the good advice and counsel he gave, and I will always remember him as a bold soldier, an old time preacher man, who stood for good order, left stepping stones for we his love ones to step on, as we cross the river to join him in the land he preached about, the land he sung about, heaven sweet heaven.  His nephew, Elder Hillard Newsome

Little, Lassa D. ~ With a broken heart and many loving memories I will write this obituary of my dear mother, Lassie. Lassa D. (Branham) Little was the daughter of the late Perry and Mary Branham. Mom was born on March 25, 1913 in Pike County Kentucky. In July of 1939 Mom married (Dad) Willie Little, unto this union were born 6 children, Lawrence Edward, Robert Lee, Ernest and also Ruby Lois, Gloria Fern and Patricia Sue. She was preceded in death by three of these children, Lawrence, Ruby and Robert. She leaves behind to mourn her death, Dad, Ernie, Fern and Patty. Also 15 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and 1 great, great grandchild. Mom was so proud of all of us that anytime someone came to the house she would get out the picture albums to show us off.  Mom was known as Mammy to all who knew and loved her. After Dad and Mom moved to Ohio she became a member of the House of Prayer Church in Dayton, Ohio, where I know she is missed by many. We thank them all for the prayers which were offered up in her behalf. On April 25,1995 her heart of gold stopped beating, her shining eyes at rest. God broke our heart to prove he only takes the best. A million times we've needed her a million times we've cried. If love alone could have kept her here, she never would have died. It broke our hearts to lose her but she didn't go alone. For part of us went with her the day God took her home. The gates of Heaven opened and a lovely voice said come and with farewells unspoken she gently entered home.  Sadly missed by Willie, Ernie and Pat, I love you Mom, Fern

Little, Pricy Ethel ~ In loving memory of our Mom, Pricy Ethel Little. Mom was born May 31, 1909 in Yeager, Kentucky and passed away March 9, 1995 in Ypsilanti, Michigan. She was the daughter of Richard and Sarah Yates. She married Troy Little, May 5, 1934, and to this union was born four children: Phyllis St. Pierre, Plymouth, MI, Troy Gene Little, Southgate, MI, Billie Sue White, Belleville, MI, and Paul Howard Little, Douglas, KY. She was preceded in death by her husband and both of her sons. Dad passed away in 1984, Troy Gene in 1988 and Paul in 1993. She was blessed to have eight grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. After moving to Michigan, she took great joy in being able to have a closer relationship with them. She is survived by 2 sisters, Grey Bartley and Flossie Hall, and one brother, David Yates all of Pike County, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by one sister, Nannie Hughes. Mom devoted her life to her family and home. She lived in Kentucky until Dad passed away, and then moved to Michigan to be closer to her family. She joined the Little Creek Old Regular Baptist Church in 1969, and kept her membership there until her death. After she moved to Michigan, she attended the Ypsilanti Old Regular Baptist Church. We miss Mom so much, but realize she is in a better home. Mom lived almost 86 years, and we were blessed with her undivided attention all of her adult life. We love you Mom, Her Daughters

Little, Robert Lee ~ I'm writing this obituary of my loving brother, who is missed so very much. Robert Lee Little was born on December 17, 1943 and departed this life on December 22, 1993. He was the son of Willie and Lassa Little. He left behind to mourn his death his dad and mom, Bonnie, his wife of 27 years, two sons, Robert II and Jason ,also his daughter, Tanya and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother Lawrence and his sister Ruby. Leaving behind a brother Ernie and two sisters Fern and Patty. Robert was a veteran of the Vietnam war and was loved by all who knew him. Robert is sadly missed by all of us and by the help of God we hope to see him again. We know he fell in the arms of a merciful God. Written by your sister, I love you, Fern

Martin, Kenis ~ With much sadness and a broken heart that I will try to write and obituary of my dear Papa, Kenis Martin. Papa was born September 27,1906 and left this world on August 5, 1995, after a short illness. He was the son of the late Andy and Polly Mitchell Martin. He married Dollie Mitchell Martin and they had 10 children. Papa worked in the coal mines for 28 years and was a member of the United Mine Workers of America Local 5899 at Wheelwright. He attended the Old Regular Baptist Church regularly. Although he never joined, we feel he was one of them. I don't believe I could ever put into words just how special my Papa was. You have heard the phrase to know him is to love him, but this truly described my Papa. He was a kind and gentle man of few words. He never spoke ill of anyone and he didn't want to hear you speak wrongly of anyone either. Papa tried very hard to live a good life and be good to everyone. He was truly a kind and loving person not just to his family but to everyone he came into contact with him. When Papa gave up this world for heaven, we truly lost a good and honest loving man. So I will close by saying that Papa will always be with us and never ever be forgotten, but always be remembered for his smile and kind heart by all who knew him. Papa is now at rest.
Written by his broken hearted granddaughters, Trish and Deb

Martin, Myrtle Helen ~ was born January 30,1906 on Doty Creek at McDowell, Kentucky.She died January 13, 1995 at the McDowell Hospital. She was 88 years old. She was the daughter of Eli and Belle Gayheart Stumbo, who preceded her in death. She was married to the late Pearl Martin. She is also preceded in death by two sisters, two brothers, one daughter and one granddaughter. Myrtle leaves to mourn her death, one daughter, Anna Rae Hall of McDowell, Kentucky, one grandson, Wendell Kidd of McDowell and one great granddaughter Michelle Martin of Teaberry. She also leaves two sisters, Shirley Vanderpool and Elizabeth Burton of McDowell. Myrtle was a member of the Old Beaver Regular Baptist Church at Minnie, Kentucky. She and her sister, Shirley, were baptized on November 16, 1975. Mom was a wonderful person. She gave me so much love to everyone, especially little children, and was known as "Mommy Martin" to many. Written by her daughter, Anna Rae Hall

Maynard, Sister (Aunt) Hazel Thornsbury ~ had angels watching over her, the night of September 11,1995, in the Fisher Titus Hospital, in Norwalk, Ohio. She suffered a heart attack that day and was admitted in the hospital. As the dawn, drew near, on Wednesday morning, September 20th, around the hour of 3:20, God sent an angel to her bedside. It was time to come home! Since June 4, 1972, when she was baptized into the Pleasant View Church, Litchfield, Ohio, by Elders Ivan Amburgey and Charles Keesee, she has waited to go home. May times, she got anxious to go, being at the age of 88 years old. She always said, "I never did grow up, I just got older." Her pride and joy were her dear loved ones, daughter, Mrs. Dan (Rosalee) Ehler, whom she made her home with for the last three years in Greenwich, Ohio. Her two grandchildren, Melanie and Casey Ehler of Greenwich. They too loved their "Nana". She would always mentioned their names. Her son-in-law, Dan was #1, as she would say, "Dan is so sweet and so good. I don't know how Rosalee ever found such a wonderful husband as Dan". She was truly blessed to have a son-in-law just like him. Before moving to Greenwich, she lived in LaGrange, Ohio. We shared many good times together. Going out to lunch, shopping and taking her to church. She had a sense of humor, and was just as serious when it came to her Spiritual life. She certainly believed in prayer. She was truly blessed to never be sick. Her memory was good, she was very alert, and enjoyed reading. She stayed in the hospital, long enough to get a cast put on her broken ankle.  Being the last member of her Dad and Mother's family, N.V. Thornsbury and Minnie (Combs) Thornsbury, she was preceded in death, by two brothers, John and Herbert Thornsbury, two sisters, Mrs. Curt (Loonie) Collins and Mrs. Elmer (Bessie) Slone and her husband, Bill Maynard. She has many nieces and nephews. Her two sister-in-laws are Violet Thornsbury of Medina, Ohio and Laura Thornsbury of LaGrange, Ohio. Before moving to Elyria/LaGrange area, she lived in Knott/Floyd County, Kentucky. I am sure it will be hard for Rosalee, Dan, Melanie and Casey to adjust to her absences, but God is only a whisper away. We, as Children of God must not forget Rosalee and her family, keep them in our prayers. Aunt Hazel had confidence that she would meet them again someday. She would like to thank the Pleasant View Church for all you did in Sister Hazel's behalf, for the dinner served to everyone the day of the funeral, and for all the prayers mentioning their names. To Elders, Raymond Gayheart, Hargis Tuttle and Larry Newsome, thank you. With many precious memories and much love, God Bless You. A niece by marriage, Sister Marge Slone

McCown, Elder Douglas ~ It is with a sad and aching heart that I will attempt to write an obituary of my beloved husband, Lloyd Douglas McCown. He was a retired coal miner and a minister of the Old Regular Baptist Church at Cedar Bottom at Kimper, Kentucky. He was born on May 18, 1941 in Pike County, Kentucky, the son of the late Lilburn McCown and Nannie Kendrick McCown of Stone Coal Road of Pikeville, Kentucky. He passed away Sunday, March 12,1995 at his home, making his stay here on earth 53 years, 9 months, and 22 days. Other than his father, he was also preceded in death by two brothers, Howard Willie McCown and Lilburn McCown Jr. He was married to Loraine Coleman McCown on May 29,1965 and to this union was born three daughters: Lorrie Elizabeth Hammond and Arvie Chariot Kenne of Shelbiana, Kentucky. Terina Marie McCown of the home. Besides his wife, children, and mother, other survivors includes one grandchild, Doug Brandon Hammond; one brother Bobby Ray McCown; one sister, Patty Gooslin, and a host of relatives and friends who will miss him. Perry Layne, Vanis Layne, Brad Biliter, James Hamilton, Louie Kinney, Johnny Wright, Cleve Huffman, Harold and Flossie Adkins, Ruby Bevins and a host of relatives and friends were there when we needed them. Our neighbors, Myra Bevins and her family was very helpful and I would like to say we love each of you and God Bless. Doug, darling, I love and miss you so much. There hasn't been a minute that I haven't wished that we could have went together. The promise that I made you that I would do everything I could do to meet you in heaven is a promise I want to keep. I want to say to the family that you will be able to be with Doug in heaven if you all will follow the life-style that he did. Doug loved you all. Doug, I will always remember you, sleep on darling, we will be together soon. I love you now and for all eternity. Written by his broken hearted wife, Loraine McCown

Moore, Essie ~ In loving memory of our precious Mother, a long time companion and loving grandmother. Mommie was borned February 28,1920 and departed this life August 18, 1995. She was 75 years old. Essie was the daughter of the late David (Sonny) Hall and Ann Polly Hall. On September 24, 1945, she married Farris Moore. To this union was born 6 children (4 daughters and 2 sons). Idonis Maize (Rockford, MI), Eliza Ann Malone (Lowell, MI), Janet L. Moore and Linda L. Hall (both of Mongo, EN). She is also survived by two son-in-laws, Tent Maize and Steve Malone. She had 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Both sons preceded her in death. Mommie joined the Providence Church at Dry Creek, Kentucky in 1979. She loved to serve the Lord and her life showed it daily. Mommie was a very loving and caring person. She loved people and made a lot of good friends. She touched a lot of lives. Her family loved her dearly and she was told that numerous times in the day every day. We have a lot of happy memories of our Mommie. She will be missed by her family and her husband but never forgotten. The love she had for us will always be with us. She is at rest now and we know she is with God. We are at peace knowing that this was her last request and wish in her life. Written by her daughter, Janet L. Moore

Moore, Eva Turner ~ It is with a broken heart, but with great love that we write the obituary of our beloved mother and grandmother, Eva Newsome Turner Moore. She was 84 years of age born on November 22, 1910 in Teaberry, Kentucky. Eva was a daughter of late William Newsome and Martha Hamilton Newsome. She left this life following extended illness on Wednesday, February 1, 1995 at the Hazard Appalachian Regional Hospital. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Dodge Turner, and her second husband, Curly Moore, and two daughters, Betty Jo Turner and Berlie Turner, and two grandsons, Bobby Glenn Meade, and Clive "Bubby" Case. Also preceding her in death were seven brothers and two sisters. She is survived by four sons, Donnie Moore, Jackie Moore, Jerry Moore and Ricky Moore, and six daughters, Patty Ruth Meade, Bobbie Ann Case, Marsha Robinson, Judith Walters and Deborah Hopkins, and Sharon Martin, and two sisters, Josie Hopkins, a and Lizzie Johnson. There are 22 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren and a great host of relatives and friends whom will mourn her passing. Mom Maw was a wonderful loving person who was always there for us. One thing we will always remember is the light she left in the window for the rest to find their way to heaven and to be with her again. All the children want to remember one special son, Jackie, who dedicated his life in caring for our mother. One thing we want to let her brothers and sisters in church know is how she loved them, the Old Regular Baptist, the preaching, old time singing and how she missed coming to be with them after she became ill. Mom Maw told us of a little girl and a little boy who had been with her some time. They would sit on her bed at night and on the couch with her in the day. Mom Maw would say, "Can't you see them?" We believe that these were her guardian angels watching over her. There was never a family that had any more love in it than Mom Maw's. Family remember, Mom Maw always said to stay together and love and care for each other. We had a beautiful flower for 84 years and now she is forever in bloom in God's bouquet.
Written by her broken hearted children and grandchildren, Sister Patsy Swiger

Mullins, Jewell ~ It is with much sadness and a broken heart that I attempt to write an obituary of my dear sister Jewell Osborne Mullins. She was born into this life on August 9, 1922 in Pike County, Kentucky and departed on December 12,1994. She was the daughter of the late Kelly and Mollie Osborne Osborne. At an early age she met and married Thomas Mullins of Long Fork, Kentucky and to this union were born two beautiful daughters, Brenda Joyce and Linda Lois. Left to mourn her loss is her husband Thomas Mullins of Wheelersburg, Ohio, one daughter Linda of Lincolnton, North Carolina, one brother James Kelly of Indian Creek, Kentucky, two sisters, Alta Slone of Robinson Creek, Kentucky and Gloria Hunter of Geneva, Ohio, four grandsons, one granddaughter, and three great grandchildren. Preceding her in death were two brothers, Jerry Franklin and Harold (who died in infancy) and one sister, Beulah Johnson. Sister Jewell lived most of her life in Geneva, Ohio and was employed the majority of those years by IRC Fibers, Inc. Sister Jewell and I were both baptized on the same day by Brother Willie Collins the June 1960 meeting of the Plymouth, Ohio Church. She immediately began to live her new life with an ample display of good works. She, together with the help of her husband Tom, set forth a goal to establish an Old Regular Baptist Church in the northeast Ohio region. Years later, after much hard work and perseverance of faith, the Lord blessed her to see "The Lilly of the Valley" church established, of which she was a founder and perpetual member until relocating to Ironton, Ohio. Just before her death, Sister Jewell left a sweet foreshadow for her family, friends, and all those who want to j oin her in a better land. She described a vision to her youngest daughter of being in a beautiful place where she was already with her departed father, mother, and oldest daughter. There will come a time, in the not-too-distant future, when the Lord Jesus will take all of his children home, never more to part. So, sleep on my darling sister, I believe we will all be together soon!  Written by her brokenhearted sister, Alta B. Slone

Newman, Curt ~ In loving memory of my daddy, Curt Newman. He was the son of Greenberry and Tanny Akers Newman of Price, Kentucky. He was born August 20,1925 in Floyd County and departed this life April 27, 1991 at McDowell A.R. H., making his stay on this earth 65 years, 8 months and 27 days. Curt married Betty Jean Harrington on October 20, 1955. They had four loving children, Curtis Keith Newman, Donna Ramsey, Debbie Hall, all of Melvin and Dennise Justice of Ligon, Kentucky. He also had five grandchildren, Amy Nichols, Tina Hall, Tamela and Danny Justice and Christal and Johnathan Ramsey. His stepmother was Anabel Smith. He had four brothers and four sisters, six of which preceded him in death. Daddy never belonged to church, but he strongly believed in God. He was a father when we needed him and a teacher when we needed to know things. He was a little man, but a big man in our eyes and heart. The memory that sticks in my mind is when he would say, "you know better than that!" He always had a saying, "if you can't say something good about anybody, don't say anything at all." He would tell us to "tie up the bread" for some reason. Now I know and understand the reason. We all miss daddy so very much. His words of teaching stays in our hearts. We all hope to see him again someday in heaven. We love and miss you always. Written by his broken hearted daughter, Debbie Hall

Newman, Ernest ~  was born September 25,1899. He was the son of the late James and Judy Martin Newman. He died February 2,1995, at home after an extended illness. On November 20, 1935, Ernest married Bertha Alley who preceded him in death. To this union were born five children who survive him. They are: Hillard Newman, Carmel Ray Newman, Dexter Newman, Judy Elizabeth Newman, and Irene Newman Sherwood. He also leaves six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Ernest is also survived by one brother, Thurman Newman of Grethel, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by two sisters and one brother. They were Lizzie Frasure, Verdie Akers, and Robert Newman. A host of other relatives and friends are left to mourn his departure. Ernest learned to accept responsibility at an early age, and he never took that responsibility lightly. He worked hard but he didn't complain. He believed that anything worth doing was worth doing well. Although old in years, Ernest remained active both mentally and physically well beyond the normal. Ernest was not a member of any church, but his life spoke for itself. He was a very kind and accommodating person who prided himself on treating others "right". He led a simple life, but he loved living. His family was his pride and joy and was especially important to him during his last months. The family heard Ernest praying several times and he assured us that he was "all right." It gives us great comfort to know that he had a hope of going to heaven. The family is truly grateful to all those wonderful friends and relatives who showed so much compassion during Dad's last few months. Many thanks go out to the ladies from the Mud Creek Clinic, Dr. Mann and his staff, the Hospice of Big Sandy, Hall Funeral Home, and the men who helped at the cemetery. We are also very grateful to the Pilgrim Home Church and the Regular Baptist ministers who participated in the services. All of you were wonderful. Written by the family

Newsome, Edward "Josh" ~ It is with a sad heart I will try to write the obituary of our dear friend and brother in the Lord, Edward (Josh) Newsome. Josh was born June 15,1924, departed this life November 21,1994.He was the son of Henry Newsome and Virgie Tackett Newsome Moore. He was married to Nanie Jones Newsome and to this union was born three sons: Daniel Newsome of McDowell, Bert and Eddie Newsome of McDowell and Big Edd Tackett of Ashtabula, Ohio. Four daughters, Mrs. Darrel Hamilton of McDowell, Rebal Salisbury of McDowell, Mrs. Ron Kron of Louisville, Kentucky and Misty Dawn Newsome of McDowell. He has one brother living, Pay Moore, and one sister living, Roxie Moore. He has some brothers and sisters who preceded him in death. He also has eleven grandchildren and two great grandchildren and twelve step grandchildren. He also leaves a host of friends to mourn his lost. He also leaves a special little grandson Festa Dwayne Jr. whom he called "Flap Jack" that spent a lot of time with him. Josh joined the Little Rosa Regular Baptist Church nine years ago and was a ordained deacon. Josh and Nannie were married forty-seven years. Josh's door was always open to his friends and neighbors. He was always willing to help someone in need. We traveled far and near to church as long as he was able and loved to meet with his brothers and sisters, he also loved to have church in his home. He enjoyed brother Huffs visits to his home and having prayer with him as long as he was able he would fall down on his knees with him. Josh loved his children and grandchildren dearly. I know if he could speak back to his children he would say don't weep over me children but make preparation to meet me in my new home. Sister Nannie was so patient with him and stood by his side all these years and I feel and believe they will both be reunited in Heaven on the great resurrection day.  Written by his friend and sister in the Lord, Loretta Tackett

Newsome, Elza ~ In loving memory of our wonderful Daddy, Elza Newsome, who we will always love forever. He was born at Beaver, Kentucky on June 14,1934. He was the son of the late Ezra and Ella Hamilton Newsome. He had six brothers, Townzel Newsome and Ray Newsome of Teaberry, Kentucky. Donnie Newsome and Dalton Newsome of New Lebanon, Ohio. Childers Newsome of San Antonio, Texas and one brother, deceased, Algie Newsome. He married Lula Mae Tackett, November 1, 1958. Unto this union were born two children, Rita Newsome Mathews and Buffie Newsome. He had two grandsons, Gregory Alan and Randall Lee and one granddaughter, Shelly N. Mathews. One son-in-law, Martin Gregory Mathews. He was a good husband and a loving father and grandfather. We knew if we ever needed anything at all, we could always depend on Daddy. Daddy was a hard worker and always took pride in his work. He worked in the mines, and was a disabled coal miner. He worked in the mines for 17 1/2 years. He loved to cut up and joke with people and enjoyed making people laugh, especially kids. Daddy was more than a father to me and my sister, he was our best friend. We could always talk to him about anything. Daddy did lots of praying. In his last days he was in a coma and could not talk to us but on Sunday evening he showed our mother how much he loved her by wrapping his arms around her shoulders. We thought his actions said it all. We'll always have great respect for him, he taught us a lot. There's a big void in our lives now and an emptiness that can't be explained. We believe he is resting at home with Jesus and will suffer no more, that Jesus has another rose added to his beautiful garden. Daddy we miss you more than words could ever say. We love you so much.
Written by his two daughters and his wife, Love you so much

Newsome, Martha F. ~ It is with great sadness and broken hearts and god's help that we write an obituary of our dear mother. Our old home place will never be the same anymore since Dad and Mom have gone to be with Jesus. Martha Francis (Newsome) Newsome was born January 26, 1916. Mom deceased this life December 31, 1994. Thus making her stay here 78 years, 11 months, and 5 days. She was the daughter of William and Mary Alice Frasure Newsome. Martha and John B. Newsome were united in marriage July 31, 1935, by Elder Evan Hamilton an Old Regular Baptist minister. He was Dad's uncle. Unto this union was born seven children, two boys and five girls. They are: Charles Rex Newsome, Amherst, Ohio; Geneva Holmes, Wakeman, Ohio; Winona Tackett, Waynesburg, KY; Roberta Walbom, Lorain, Ohio; Elder Larry Douglas Newsome, Vermilion, Ohio; Clara Sue Hall, Galveston, Kentucky; Willa Jean Tackett, Teaberry, Kentucky. There are 21 grandchildren of which two are deceased, and there are 25 great grandchildren. Mom had five brothers and sisters and 13 half brothers and sisters. Mom joined Zion Old Regular Baptist Church, June 28,1992, and was baptized by Elder Chester Newsome and Elder Earl Dean Newsome. After the baptism she took communion with her brothers and sisters at Zion Church. She loved going to church and was faithful in attendance, until ill health befell her in the spring of 1994. Dad and Mom are now resting from their labors here on earth and are enjoying that peaceful rest under the alter of God. We too can receive this peaceful rest when we die if we trust Christ for our salvation. We all must repent and be born again. Written by her broken hearted children

Newsome, Ottis "Pudder" ~ On September 9,1934, a son was born to Charlie and Pricy Jones Newsome of McDowell, Kentucky. After many years as a sickly child and even more as an adult, Ottis "Pudder" Newsome departed this life of pain and worry. On November 22,1994, Daddy went home to Jesus following a fatal automobile accident. On April 19, 1963, he married Bonnie Parsons of Drift, Kentucky. Mommy shared with him many blessings and sorrows as a loving, faithful companion for more than 31 years. Unto this union was born three children: Gilver Keith Newsome, Ottis Timothy Newsome, and Mary Suzanne Newsome White. Though Daddy was average in stature, his presence was strengthening and felt by many. As family and friends know Daddy was born missing two fingers from his left hand. He often shared with us a dream he had before being saved. He dreamed of running through bottom land with an enormous snake chasing him. He reached the creek below his home. He said the water was crystal clear and he could see the image of Jesus immersed in it. Jesus rose from the water and stood before him. In awe of such Glory, Daddy reached out his hands and saw his fingers restored. Daddy's voice always trembled when he spoke of standing before the glory of the Lord. On March 19,1985, Daddy felt a need to turn his life around. He was baptized within the hour and established his membership with Little Rosa church. I often heard him say he wished he had went to the Lord as a young man. Daddy was a loving husband and a precious father. He extended his love and generosity to Lesa, Kim, and Mark as well. He was a beloved grandfather to Grant, Ryan, Seth, and Caitlin. In addition to his family, he leaves behind a host of friends and relatives who knew and loved him. We grieve for him daily, but feel that he walks with Jesus in a land of eternal peace. We look forward to the day when we shall be reunited once more.
Written by his daughter, Suzi Newsome White, on behalf of the family.

Niemi, Emogene (Hicks) ~ was born February 22, 1936, the daughter of Tandy and Liza Hicks. She met and married Eugene Niemi in early life. To this union were born two children, James and Judy. James preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband Eugene, daughter Judy, and three grandchildren. Also surviving are her dad and mom, Tandy and Liza Hicks, three brothers, James, Glenn, and T.J., one sister, Patsy, and a host of friends, brothers and sisters in the church. She joined the Regular Baptist Church and became a member May 10, 1987. She was baptized by Elders Raymond Lawson and Jimmy Hall, who she loved very much. She lived a faithful member until her death. Emogene enjoyed working in the lunchroom and done anything she was able to do for the church. She took care of her dad and mom as long as she could. She lived a hard life in this world, but we believe she has a Father now who has promised her all things. She loved and was loved by all the Stone Coal Church. I know she is missed very much. I want to thank everyone for being so good to her and helping in any way. A special thanks to Brother Ernest and Mildred Gibson
Written by request of her dad, uncle and a brother in hope, Talt Hicks

Owens, Minnie ~ In loving memory of our mother, Minnie Owens, who passed away October 28, 1994. Sweet mother dear, we miss you so but there's one thing we surely know, you are in heaven with God above, you are enfolded with peace and love. Your body's mended, you feel no pain, we had to lose so you could gain. We need you Mom, I never knew how much, oh, how I yearn for your loving touch. Our hearts still hurt, our tears still flow. This pain will stay though years may go. We need you mom, it's so hard to let go. So we lean on each other and let the tears flow. Happy Mother's Day, Mom. We love and miss you so very much. Brenda, Barb, Bobby, James Jackie, Bufford, Johnny and Billy. Written by Brenda Owens for out mother

Parker, Nova ~ With the help of God, I will attempt to write an obituary of a dear loving mother, friend, and sister in the Lord. Nova Tackett Parker was born March 6, 1917, in the home of Elder Wil and Victoria Roberts Tackett, that preceded her in death. She passed away February 6,1995 at the residence at McDowell, Kentucky after an extended illness. Early in life mother met and married William (Bill) Parker. That preceded mother in death in 1975. Unto this union were born six children. Preceding mother in death was one son and one daughter, Douglas and Dorothy Parker. Left to mourn are two sons Elder Donald Parker and Frank Parker, and two daughters Patricia Conn and Agnes Clifton as well as a stepdaughter Billie Jeffery that mother raised as her own. Mother was also preceded in death by several stepchildren that she loved: Floyd, John, Ernest, and C.C. (Lum) Parker, and Maudie Harris, and Ethel Pack. Left also to mourn are Walter Parker, and Vernie Nolin, as well as a great host of grandchildren, and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, that will mourn her death. Mother was also preceded in death by two sisters: Marm Newsome and Mindy Ray. Three brothers: Delmon, Mallard, and Bill Tackett. Left to mourn are two brothers: Sid and Mallie Tackett. As our hearts remember back I feel we could say, Poppy, you were mighty special each day of these 94 years. You truly blessed our lives. We always held you dear. Poppy, your words had truth and wisdom. You were firm yet gentle too. Poppy, hope and faith and knowledge were typical of you. You strove for higher goals with a quiet and steady aim. You were modest when you won. If you lost, you didn't complain. With respect and admiration and pride and love we say Poppy, our humble thanks to you. Your life was a light to show us the way. Your life always taught us to seek the Lord who can turn these shadows of death into victory in the morning. Written by Elder W. Lee Roberts

Shelton, Lizzie Pack ~  was born in Johnson County, on February 10, 1906. Lizzie was married to Fred Shelton and they lived at Drift, Kentucky all of their married life. They had two boys whose names were Fred Jr. who resides at Martin Kentucky, and Ernest of Legro, Indiana. She loved her children and her grandchildren very much and was always pleased to see them come to visit her. She greeted everyone with a friendly smile and with love. After Fred Sr. died she took care of her sister, Babe, until Babe died. Lizzie then went to live with her son, Ernest and her daughter-in- law, Vera. Vera was more than a daughter-in-law, she was a daughter, a trusted friend, and a companion. Lizzie's health took a turn for the worst, but she was cared for with the greatest of love that anybody could ever get. She enjoyed coming back home to visit her loved ones. It was a pleasure to talk to her, she was a jolly person, and she could always make you laugh, even in her sickness. She soon came to realize that she needed more in her life than just her family. That's when she started praying for a heavenly home. She prayed, and then she finally received it. She wanted to join the Old Beaver Church, but was never permitted to do so, because of bad health, but the Old Beaver Church and the brothers and the sisters were always on her mind. She never let a day go by that she didn't give praise and thanks to her Lord, Jesus Christ, she gave praise to the Lord even when she was on her bed. She also sang her most cherished song, "Amazing Grace", it was her theme until the Lord took her home September 21, 1994. We miss her so, but with the help of the Lord, we'll meet her again on the shiny shores of Heaven. Sadly missed by her family

Shepherd, Exie Vanderpool ~ I will try with the help of the Lord to write the obituary of my mother. She was born March 24, 1915 and deceased June 7, 1995. She was the daughter of George and Matilda Engles Hicks. She lived her life on earth eighty years. She raised 12 of us children and no doubt done the best she could. I know that she worked hard to keep us fed and clothed and a roof over our heads. Three of her children preceded her in death and her husband, Charlie Vanderpool. A few years later she married Bee Shepherd. They lived a happy life for 2 years until she died. I know she is resting around God's throne. She loved her flowers and when I see a flower, I think of Mom. When God picked Mom, he picked the prettiest flower of them all. Her name is Exie Vanderpool Shepherd. I would like to say to my natural brothers and sisters and to the people that don't know Jesus, please fall out with sin and be born again. I love you all and I love you, Mom. I feel like I will meet you in Heaven some sweet day. As I look over the flowers, I thought I could almost see your face, but this is a flower for your vacant place. This flower is of God, some cease to bow, but if you don't bow here, you have to bow someday after a while. Written by her broken hearted daughter and sister in the Lord, Sister Hazel Brown

Shepherd, Lynda Bailey ~ Lynda Bailey Shepherd was born March 22,1911 in Magoffin County, the daughter of the late Came and Margaret Wireman Bailey and departed this life on December 16, 1994 of an extended illness. A retired post mistress of the United States Postal Services for 31 years at Gunlock, Kentucky. She was married to Oakie Shepherd on December 15,1938, he preceded her in death on February 13,1992. Also two sons, Palmer and Elmer Shepherd, one sister, Eva Ingram, one brother, Archie Bailey, and several infant siblings preceded her in death. Those that survive are three sons and daughters-in-law, Talmadge and Jean Shepherd of Warsaw, Indiana, Dexter and Jane Shepherd, North Webster, Indiana and Ray and Sue Shepherd of North Manchester, Indiana. Four daughters and sons-in-law Mazie and Richard Lacy, Shelby, Ohio, Janice and Tommy Cooley, Hueysville, Kentucky, Ruth and Estill Newsome, Prestonsburg, Kentucky and Cleo and Lawton Patrick, Salyersville, Kentucky. Six sisters, Telia Conley, Bellecenter, Ohio, Francis Auxier, Royalton, Kentucky, Pearlie Patrick, Chelsea, Michigan, Bertha Manns, Renesselear, Indiana, Dollie Neely, Belleveille, Michigan, and Erma Minix, North Judson, Indiana. Sixteen grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, and a large number of nieces, nephews and cousins. Our mother was loved by all. She was a hard working woman all her life. In her younger days, plowed fields with oxens, worked as a hired girl, helping many family with household cleaning and washing large amounts of laundry on a washboard and doing the cooking and cleaning. She and Dad raised eight children. She was baptized and became a member of the Little Martha Old Regular Baptist Church in August 1958. In her late years she had many health problems, but each time she over came and bounced back, even though looking frail, she was a very strong willed women. Mother missed Dad very much after his passing and we are sure we will miss her the same. Written by the Shepherd Family

Short, Aldo & Dora ~ In loving memory of Aldo and Dora Short. I will try to write an obituary about them. Aldo Short was born March 31, 1900. He was the son of John Wesley and Caroline Short. He passed away August 17, 1970. Dora Short was born on March 25,1906. She was the daughter of Floyd and Telda Slone. Dora passed away September 1, 1994. They were married on July 20,1920 and they had nine children. They were both members of the Ball Branch Regular Baptist Church and both joined in 1950. Aldo and four of their children were waiting for Dora in Heaven. I know they were happy to see her. We miss her so much and it's sad to say goodbye to the one's you love. On October 28,1994 my mother, Minnie Owens, also passed away. I gave up two loved ones in less than two months and my heart still aches for them. I had a dream of heaven just before they both became sick. It was so beautiful, everyone was so happy there. No one was sick. I believe God showed me what a beautiful home was waiting for my mother-in-law, Dora Short and my mother, Minnie Owens. And someday we can all be together again. I know they are better off than we are. There's no pain over there, but the only thing is missing them so bad. I know if they could talk back to their children, they would say, "Live for the Lord" and "Come be with us in Heaven some day." Written by daughter-in-law, Barbara Short

Slone, Angus (Den) ~  was born March 16,1940 to Bloomie Slone and the late Bill Slone. He departed this life on November 2, 1993 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, following a long illness. In 1963 Den married Wanda Bates. They were blessed with thirty happy years together and one son, Keith, and a daughter, Melissa. Den and his wife left Knott County in 1965 in order to find work. Den was preceded in death by his father, Bill Slone, and one brother, Robert Brewer. Left to mourn his passing is his wife, Wanda, son Keith and daughter Melissa Bowman, all of Ligonier, Indiana; his mother, Bloomie Slone of Pippa Passes, Kentucky, five sisters - Barbara Hernley of Leesburg, Virginia, Thelma Hout of Mansfield, Ohio; Gladys Slone of Pippa Passes, Kentucky, Margaret Setser of Warsaw, Indian, and Wanda Peffer of Ligonier, Indiana; three brothers - Clifford Jacobs of Pleasant Lake, Michigan, Bill Slone, Jr. of Wanaka, Indiana and Ted Slone of Pippa Passes, Kentucky. Also a host of other relatives and friends will mourn his passing. Den was a pleasant, easy-going person and people that knew him liked and respected him. Den worked hard as a machinist at Siligan Plastics to support his family. He believed in hard work and was a good provider. He retired in 1990, having some health problems that prevented him from working. He was also a U.S. Army veteran and was a member of the West Noble American Legion Post 243. Several years ago, Den felt that something was missing from his life. He realized that he needed Jesus to make things complete. He told of God's forgiveness and joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in 1975. I'm sure that God's love saw him through many pains and heartaches. God's love is everlasting and there is nothing that compares to it. I'm sure that if Den could speak back to his family, we would tell them to not put it off but to get in a hurry to meet Jesus.    Written by Joan Smith at the request of his mother, Bloomie Slone

Slone, Imogene ~ With the help of our Lord I will try to write the obituary of Sister Imogene Slone. She was the wife of Emery Slone and she was born September 18,1929 and deceased February 25,1995. To this union was born six children, one son Afton Slone, five daughters: Myrtle Porter, Barbara Thornsberry, Christine Slone, Wilma Jent, and Melissa Slone. Early in life she became a member of Hollybush Old Regular Baptist Church. She was a faithful member and her conversation was always on the Lord and the Bible. She was a good loveable person and was loved by all who knew her. I know she was a bold soldier for the Lord. She would always call us and we would talk about the Bible and she would shout praises to her God. I know she is missed by the ones who knew her. To her children that don't know Jesus, I know if she could speak to you, she would say, "Children, repent and be born again and meet Mother in Heaven someday."  
Written by Sister Hazel Brown and Sister Christine Slone

Slone, Morgan ~ I'm trying to write the obituary of my dear brother-in-law, Morgan slone. The good Lord called Morgan home on November 17, 1994, making his stay on earth 43 years, 7 months, and 17 days. Morgan was born April 13, 1951 in Halo, Kentucky, to Bill and Laudie Slone whom loved him very much. Morgan's daddy passed away March 4, 1974. He had 5 brothers and 3 sisters. They are Sterling, Roger, Steven, and Ranso of Huntington, Indiana. Ozark of Bevinsville, Kentucky, Larya (Mae) Johnson, Myrtle Hensley, and Lorraine Allen of Huntington, Indiana. They loved Morgan with all their heart. Morgan joined the Little Rock Church many years ago and made it his home, 'till the angels came after him to be in Heaven home. He had many of nieces and nephews also that loved him very much, and missed him a lot. But oh my, Morgan was sweet and loved by many people. With the power of the Lord he lived with his sickness many years since childhood. His mother watched over him, 'till she could no more. Morgan had to be placed in a nursing home, but he still took the Lord with him and tried to keep singing those pretty church songs. The last year Morgan lived, he couldn't talk any more, just laid in his bed peacefully. But before that he would tell many people of talking with God and going home with God. At the time, I know it hurts, but now I know this is the best for Morgan because he isn't suffering no more. He is now God angel. Please brothers and sisters make Heaven your home if you want to be with Morgan and Daddy, and all the rest of the people that you want to see again. That's the only way we will ever see them again. When that day comes, it is going to be the most blessed day ever, and I'm going to be there to meet them.   Written by your sister-in-law, Anna Sue Slone

Slone, Merkie ~ was borned to Green and Rhonda Slone on May 3,1925. She had a very happy childhood at home with her parents, five brothers and five sisters. Then at the age of fourteen, Merkie met, fell in love with, and married Elbert Slone. They shared their love and happiness with their children: Anna B., Lola and Garfield. Merkie worked at Caney Jr. College for two years but spent most of her years working at the family store. She enjoyed flowers, gardening, and cooking (gingerbread, biscuits and chicken and dumplings), and most enjoyable to her was time spent with her family. After being diagnosed with lung cancer, she found comfort in reading the Bible. She kept faith with God, and believed He would see her through her illness. She had made peace with the Lord many years ago. Merkie is survived by her children: Anna B., Lola, and Garfield, eight grandchildren, Sharon, Ricky, Wayne, Michelle, Marada, Shasta, Brett, and Seth; three great grandchildren, Brennan, Jade, and Blake; two sons-in-law, Hilton "Cuch" Chaffins and Dale Hall; four grandchildren-in-law, Biccy, Ingrid, Scotty, and Dusty. Those who knew her will never forget her kindness and her smiling face. We hope to see her and grandpa in Heaven. Written by her granddaughter, Marada Chaffins Chaney

Slone, Nora Terry Chaffins ~ It is with a great deal of humbleness and humility that we write the obituary of a virtuous woman that was so much like the woman described in Proverbs 31:10-31. Our dear Aunt Nora Terry was born to the late Samuel Terry and Ruthie Reynolds Terry on February 2, 1917 at Raven, Kentucky. She departed this life on August 10,1995, making her stay on this earth 78 years. Nora was married to Johnny Chaffins and he preceded her in death on July 26,1969. There were no children born to this union, but they raised their nephew, David Chaffins, as their own. After being alone for several years, Nora married the late Herbert Slone of Wayland who preceded her in death. Left to mourn her passing are David Chaffins, her nephew; Curt Slone, stepson; 1 brother, Clarence Ray Terry of Ohio; and 6 sisters, Dova Bentley and Nellie Roberts of Wayland; Clova Watkins of Lackey; August Stanley and Beatrice Boyd of Ohio; and Elizabeth Cook Caudill of Melvin. She is also survived by 2 grandchildren, Libby Riley of Langley; and Cassandra Williamson of Wayland; and a whole host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Aunt Nora joined the Caney Fork Church on January 16,1966 and was baptized by the Elders Troy Nichols and Bert Hall. She moved her letter to the Steele's Creek Church in 1980. This flower from our lives is missing, but will bloom in heaven forever and ever where she won't have pain with that dreadful disease, cancer. In writing this obituary, we came across a couple of obituaries, Aunt Nora wrote: "She left this sinful world going to a better home we do believe not made by hand. The death angel came and took her where there won't be anymore sickness or death and by the help of the good Lord you can meet her in Heaven. Press on and be ready when God calls, "Come on home." Aunt Nora would say, "Come on home and live with Jesus forever and ever."  Written by her nieces, Novella Bentley Froman and Clementene Roberts Tackett

Slone, Silas "Sy" ~ It is with a sad heart that I try to write an obituary of a good friend, Silas (Sy) Slone. Sy was born April 29,1897 to the late Isom and Rosie Thornsberry Slone. He departed this life June 3, 1994, being 97 years old. In early life Sy met his life partner, Nannie Gibson. They were married in 1913 and God blessed them with 73 years together until Nan's death in 1986. Sy and Nan were blessed with 16 children, three which preceded him in death: Lila, Sadie and Farris. Left to mourn Sy's passing is 6 sons: Daffie, Jeff, Cash, Irton, Breman and Graden; 7 daughters: Daily Robinson, Ocie Caudill, Oria Thornsberry, Lola Caudill, Rose Dingus, Yvonne Burton and Bernice Viock. Also 58 grandchildren, 118 great grandchildren, 42 great, great grandchildren, 3 great, great, great grandchildren and a large host of other relatives and friends will mourn his passing. Sy never attached himself to any church but he believed in the Old Regular Baptist way. He has always loved the Hollybush Church and was always willing to help the church in any way. He split the stones to make the steps for the church when it was established in 1939. His request was to be brought to Hollybush when he passed away. God blessed him with 97 years here on earth. Sy told Rose he had dreamed of being with Brother Jeff Hall and Brother Buddy Hall. In his dream they were standing, talking and he looked out and saw his dad coming to meet them. Rose said Sy told her he prayed a lot and said she often heard him calling on the Lord. Sy told her he knew his time was getting short. I believe God was working on him then and feel that Sy was fixing things up. Mom is gone and now Dad is gone. But there is one thing for certain there is going to be a reunion one day and I hope and pray that all of you will be able to be there. Just trust in the Lord and he will lead and guide you to a safe harbor where there will be no more sickness, pain, death or parting. No more sad tears.
Written by Joan Smith, a friend, with the help of the family

Slone, Virgie Johnson ~ For nineteen years I have known Virgie and Marcus, and had grown very fond of them both. They have seen and lived through hard times and better times and good times and bad times, but Virgie was still always the kind of loving woman that I dearly loved and cherished as one of my very best friends. Almost every day and mostly nights, we would talk for hours at a time. Just a couple of days before she died, I told her she needed to go back to the hospital, and she said yes that she did need to go but she had hopes of getting better so that she could go to church at the appointed meeting time. I knew how much she loved God and the members of the Mt. Olive Church. She has called me in the middle of the night checking on my Daddy if he was sick or injured. She'd say she couldn't rest 'till she knew he was going to be alright. Her heart was big for the sick and injured and all the time she was a lot sicker than most all of them, but she would still keep right on going. I was never in her house unless I was asked to eat and to stay all night, and I knew that she meant it from the bottom of her heart. Virgie and Marcus were like grandparents to my children and I can never forget them both. Virgie was all the time giving canned goods away that she had worked hard canning and putting away. I believe that her main reason for doing it was just to do a good deed for somebody. In my heart I believe that God kept Virgie here longer than Marcus for her to see just how many people would be there for her in her time of need. Even though her and Marcus never expected anything from anybody, God did. I could write a book on good deeds that her and Marcus did, but we all know them, and now I know in my heart that Virgie and Marcus will be getting their great reward. I will miss you Virgie, but I know that you are far much better off than we all are, and even though we'll miss you, I wouldn't wish you back. Missed deeply by your long-time friend, Rhonda Slone

Slone, Virgie Johnson ~  Requested by the family that I write an obituary of Virgie Slone, she was born at Leburn, Kentucky on October 8, 1928. She was the daughter of the late Jay and Rebecca Short Johnson. Sister Virgie departed this life following an extended illness on Friday, June 16,1995 at her home at Garner, Kentucky. In life her occupation was that of a homemaker and mother. Some years ago Sister Virgie came to and joined the Mount Olive Old Regular Baptist Church. After being baptized, she took up fellowship with the Mt. Olive Church and was always a faithful member. Sister Virgie was preceded in death by her husband Marcus D. Slone on August 15,1994. She was also preceded in death by three brothers: Rudolph Johnson, Chester Johnson, and Delmas Johnson, and one sister, Laudia Hall. She was survived by one daughter and three sons: Opal Marie Slone and Carlos Ray Slone, both of Garner, Kentucky, Verdis Rodney Slone of Hindman, Kentucky, and Ralph Chillistine Slone of Amburgey, Kentucky. Also surviving is one brother and five sisters: Kenneth Ray Johnson, Kendaville, Indiana, Gladys Slone, Pauline Slone, and Ouida Slone, all of Garner, Kentucky, Edna Gibson, Pippa Passes, KY and Anna Lee Smith, Leburn, Kentucky. Eight granddaughters, three daughters-in-law, one son-in-law and a host of many friends and relatives to mourn her passing. Sister Virgie became very lonely after her companion passed away. She has called to my home many times and you could feel the loneliness in her talks. She was sick before her good companion left this world, but she never complained a lot about her health condition, she was always concerned about others. There were times her illness kept her home, and when she never made it to church, she would call and say, "I wanted to come to church today, but with my health condition, I never made it." Her heart was always at the Mt. Olive Church. We feel the church can surely say that we lost a good, faithful sister, although we feel her suffering and loneliness is over. I feel this good sister is resting around the throne of God. I want to say to her children, "Love one another, stay in touch and meet Mommy and Daddy in Heaven."    Written by Brother Berton Ratliff

Smith, Ben ~ was born March 22, 1907 in Knott County to Elisha and Elizabeth Smith. He was the husband of the late Susie Smith who preceded him in death October 29,1989. Dad departed this life October 28,1994, making his stay on earth 87 years, 7 months and six days. Dad also was preceded in death by his mother and father, three sisters, 8 brothers, three infant sons, and one son, Chester Smith, preceded him in death by two months and six days. Dad leaves behind to mourn the loss, one sister, Sarah Ritchie of Lagrange, Indiana; one son, Vester Smith of Howe, Indiana; 8 daughters, Mary Magalene Buhere of Pedro, Ohio, Mae Rawhoof of Providence, Kentucky, Elizabeth Smith of Garrett, Kentucky, Shirley Morgan, Rita Slone, Patricia Rister, all of Garrett, Kentucky, Nancy Sturgill of Mousie, Kentucky, Alma Kay Hicks of Martin, Kentucky, 20 great grand children, 3 step grandchildren, 21 grandchildren. A host of nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved. One great grandson, Derek Lee Collins, preceded him in death. Dad was a member of Stone Coal Regular Baptist Church for 44 years. He was a retired foundry worker and coal miner. Dad was a wonderful man and a devoted father. There wasn't a honest task he would not take just in order to provide for his family. He made sacrifices of his own personal comfort, walked for miles across mountains to find a days work to feed his family. Dad continued to work for years after the doctors advised him to quit his job. The last six years and seven months of his life he was afflicted from a stroke that took his speech and his ability to walk he could not even tell us if he was in pain. We can't even imagine the suffering he endured, but God heard his every cry. Our hearts are comforted with the belief that when he opened his eyes for the last time and as he looked upward, with a pleased look on his face that he saw the vision of heaven, and he went to sleep in the arms of his savior. Even though he couldn't tell us we had a feeling in our hearts that he had so patiently waited for so long for this moment to come so he could enter that world that he could walk, talk, and rejoice forever more. There isn't enough words to say how much we love and miss our dad. How grateful for everything he did for us. He didn't want or expect any thanks from any of us, as he said he did it only for the love he had for his family. Our hearts are filled with grief but as we stop to think how long Dad waited for his suffering to end then our grief is easier to bear.
Written by his broken hearted children

Smith, Chester ~ With much sadness and a broken heart I will try to write an obituary of our dear beloved brother, Chester Smith. Chester was born June 6,1946 to the late Susie and Ben Smith of Stone Coal at Garrett, Kentucky. Chester passed away August 22, 1994, at his home in Sturgis, Michigan. He leaves behind to mourn the loss, his wife, Mary Smith, four children, Karen Shoemaker, of Cedar Springs, Michigan, Kathy George, East Cedar Springs, Michigan. Chester Dwayne Smith of Howe, Indiana, Ricky Lee Smith White, Pigeon, Michigan. Two stepchildren, Tammy Talebki and Patrick Likes both of Sturgis, MI. Survivors also include seven grandchildren, one brother Vester Smith, eight sisters, Mary Magalene Buhere, of Pedro, Ohio, Mae Rawhoof, of Providence, Kentucky, Nancy Sturgill, of Mousie, Kentucky, Alma Kay Hicks of Martin, Kentucky, Elizabeth Smith, Shirley Morgan, Rita Slone, Patricia Rister all of Garrett, Kentucky. He also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews. One uncle, Troy Conley, 3 aunts, Sarah, Margaret, Gracie. Chester was diagnosed of cancer in June only a few days after his 48th birthday, passed away just two months later, he endured a great deal of suffering but did so very bravely, he kept his courage to the very end, and was more concerned with everyone else being comfortable. He never complained of being in pain even though we could tell he was suffering just by the expression on his face. He was taken from this life at an early age, he would often say he wasn't any better than any one else to pay the price by death. He often mentioned how he was longing to see Mom, and how much it would mean to him to be able to visit Dad. He told us if he went first he would not have to see his loved ones suffer and die. He accepted God and told his wife he was ready to go home. We feel he is now resting not feeling any more pain and he will be rejoicing with mom and dad forever more. We will always be grateful to his loving wife Mary whom stood by him so patiently to the very end. In his last days of his life he wanted her right by his side. We know she meant everything to him. This world will never feel the same without Mom, Dad and Chester but we will try to consider how much better off they are and think of that happy reunion they will have. Chester, we will always love and miss you, the family circle is now broken, the family gathering just isn't the same. But we go on knowing God has answered your prayers. Written by your broken hearted family

Stamper, Rhoda (Morton) ~ was born into this world on May 24,1916, and departed this life on February 1,1995. She was preceded in death by her husband, the late James A. Stamper. Rhoda Stamper was a devoted wife, the loving mother of eight children, the grandmother and great grandmother of many grandchildren and great grandchildren whom she loved, and a faithful member of the Mt. Sterling Old Regular Baptist church for twenty-three years. Those of us who mourn her can take comfort in knowing that our loss is surely heaven's gain. Rhoda Stamper's life was a humble testament of her love for and faith in her Lord and Saviour, Christ Jesus. She had been a strong woman with a tender heart, who kept her little house on the hill open to everyone. It was the gathering place, well-stocked with love, where comfort and peace could be found only there. The family of Rhoda Stamper misses her very much, and her legacy of faith and love lives on in their hearts. They long to be reunited with her in the presence of the Lord, where that glorious feeling of peace, joy, and abiding love shall never end.
With heartfelt sorrow, the children and family of James and Rhoda Stamper

Steele, Otis ~ In loving memory of a precious husband, brother, and special friend to all, we will, with the help of our Lord, try to write the obituary of Brother Otis Steele. Brother Otis was born on September 17, 1928 to Earl and Phoebe Seagraves Steele. He went home to be with Jesus, July 31,1995. Brother Otis was married to Ellen Cotton Steele, August 21, 1948. God blessed them to have four children, two sons, Otis Lawrence Steele of Olive Hill, Kentucky and Brent Steele of Grayson, Kentucky;  two daughters, Kay Marshall of Willard, Kentucky and Merry Berry of Grayson, Kentucky. He also had eleven grandchildren and four great grandchildren whom he loved and adored. Additional survivors include three brothers: Garlin Steele of Grayson, Kentucky, James Steele of Columbus, Ohio, and Raymond Steele of Darbyville, Ohio. Eight sisters: Lucille Rice of Columbus, Ohio, Bertha Wells, Faye Scott, Minnie Rogers, Carolyn Seagraves, Cora Crockett, Judy Perkins, and Mary Marcum, all of Grayson, Kentucky. One brother, Earl Steele Jr., one sister, Bonnie Floyd and one grandson, Otis Lawrence Steele Jr. preceded him in death. Brother Otis joined the Little Mary Old Regular Baptist Church in 1951. He was soon ordained a deacon and served as clerk for the church. He brought his letter to the Kiser Branch Old Regular Baptist Church shortly after it was organized and was a faithful servant until Jesus called him to a better land. He often sung "Jerusalem, My Happy Home", and he sung it from the heart. We know he is happy in his new home. Brother Otis lived a faithful life, showing kindness and love to all he met, both in and out of the church. He truly put his light on a candlestick and the light that shined through him was taken notice of by his family and many friends. He showed his love and Christian behavior by the way he treated everyone. On his church time, it was a great joy to him to welcome everyone into his home to enjoy the fellowship of all. We know he would want to invite his family and friends to come and see him in his new home and you can if you'll just take it up with Jesus. He is the answer to everything.
Written by his broken hearted wife, Ellen and brother in law Elder Bill Cotton

Stephens, Green ~ With the help of Jesus and a sad loving hearts, we will try to write an obituary of our dear daddy and loving husband, Green Stephens. He was the son of the late Ruben and Lona Hale Stephens. He was born July 14, 1923 and departed this life January 28, 1995 making his stay on earth 71 years, 6 months, and 14 days. Daddy met and married Delila Shepherd Stephens on April 8, 1944, to this union were born ten children. Five girls: Goldie Mae Goble of Claypool, Indiana, Josephine Akers and Kathy Hammonds of Prestonsburg, Kentucky, Lona Prater of Hueysville, Kentucky, Easter Fay Akers of Grethel, Kentucky. Five boys, Cleve, Monroe and Otis Stephens all of Prestonsburg, Kentucky. Lonzo Stephens of Cowcreek, Kentucky, Clyde Stephens of Paintsville, Kentucky who preceded him in death. Daddy received Jesus Christ as his savior and was baptized into the fellowship of Little Salem Old Regular Baptist Church, July 24,1988 although he was unable to attend church because of his illness he enjoyed the Brothers and Sisters coming to his house and having services. Daddy was a humble man, he enjoyed his children and grandchildren being with him. He loved them so well. Daddy has gone to a home where there isn't any pain or suffering. He has gone home to die no more. Daddy's prayer would be that his children would seek the Lord. To have him come into their hearts and turn their life over to him. Our loss is Heaven's gain! To my Brothers and Sisters that have not made peace with the Lord, if you want to see Daddy again, you must fall out with sin, and be born again.  Written by his daughter, Josephine Akers and a Sister in Hope

Stiltner, Dewey ~ As I sit here today I trust the good Lord to help me write an obituary of our blessed companion, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother. Brother Dewey was born February 22, 1925 and on February 19,1946 at Pikeville, Kentucky. He married Emma Earlene Scott and to this union was born three children, two of whom preceded him in death. Helen Jean Stiltner Burnsworth of Joliet Illinois passed away April 21,1973 and Linda Stiltner Smith of Phelps, Kentucky November 22,1975. A son Danny A. Stiltner of Cherry Key Tennessee survives. Brother Dewey is survived by five grandchildren Chris Gates of Waukegan, Illinois, Arvil Jr. Smith of Phelps, Kentucky, Danny A. Stiltner of Cherry Key, Tennessee, Kommy Renesee Stiltner of Lexington, Kentucky and Randy Burnsworth of Tennessee. Two great granddaughters, Manda Marie Gates and Maggon Lynn Gates. Brother Dewey loved his family so very dearly and was proud of his grandchildren so much. Brother Dewey, Brother Rell Cole, Brother Pat Hall and I sat together at the Caney Creek Church for several years, we four got real close because we could feel the good spirit of the good Lord as a preaching Brother would be blessed to preach. I cherish the memories of how we would knee or elbow each other or ask the Lord to bless the meeting, praying for each other, laughing when we could, crying more than a little, rejoicing together in the name of our Lord. Brother Dewey had a special love for Caney Creek Church and all the Brothers and Sisters, so gently and humbly he would tell us (God Bless You). I love you so much. Sister Jerry Wright drew very close to Brother Dewey and his wife, Earlene and was so hurt when you had to go Brother. We miss you Brother Dewey but feel you are at rest now where no cancer or pain can come, so rest on 'till we meet again, there not only we four can shout glory to Jesus' name but the whole entire family of God will be tuned up just right. Brother Dewey Stiltner only lived here on earth 67 years, 9 months, and 13 days but has gone to a land where he will live forever.
Written by Elder Kermit Wright with the help from Earlene and Sister Jerri Wright

Stumbo, Pauline Moore ~ Pauline was born December 25,1928 at McDowell, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Miles and Vannie Moore. She passed away at her home in Minnie, Kentucky on October 3, 1994. She was preceded in death by her husband Wentz Stumbo and her only son Morris R. Stumbo. She is survived by two daughters, Marcie Kimmins of Reynoldsburg, Ohio and Janet Pack of Minnie, Kentucky. Pauline is also survived by four brothers, Pete Moore of Minnie, Kentucky, Earl Moore of New Mexico, Dennis Moore, San Nates, California, and Eugene Moore of Mesa, Arizona. She is also survived by three sisters, Alisa Lawson of McDowell, Kentucky, Norma Lambert of Kingsport, Tennessee, Josephine Lambert of Rittman, Ohio. Also surviving is three granddaughters and four grandsons. She was a member of Old Beaver Regular Baptist Church for 26 years. Due to illness in the later part of her life, she was unable to attend church. She was confined to bed for more than two years where she spent many long days and nights. About two hours after Pauline died, there was a beautiful white dove appeared in my yard. The dove walked around for about 10 minutes then it just lifted it's wings and flew away. I feel in my heart that this dove was a good sign that Pauline was gone home to be with Jesus. Saundra Moore

Stumbo, Verdie Hall ~ With the help of our Lord, we will try to write an obituary of our dear sweet beloved mother, Verdie Hall Stumbo. The daughter of the late Duran and Mary Lee Spradlin Hall, she was born January 11,1909 at Dony, Kentucky. She departed this life on Saturday, May 6, 1995 making her stay on earth 86 years, 3 months, and 25 days. Left to mourn her passing are 9 children, 15 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 5 sisters, 1 brother, a host of friends, relatives and many Brothers and Sisters in the Lord. Mom was married to Willie Kitt Stumbo who was called home on September 14, 1967. Unto their union was born 6 boys and 3 girls: Paul Klein, Don, Larry, Johnny, Carl, Greta Glo Clark, Helen D. Hall and Nancy Gibson. Surviving also are 15 grandchildren: Stan and Gordon Dale Stumbo, Denise Tackett, Pam Anderson, Michelle Romans, Jeff Stumbo, Vanessa Clark, Kim Ellis, Randy Stumbo, Donna Hall, Jonathan and James Scott Stumbo, Jaynie Stumbo, Iris Stumbo, and Jarrod Gibson. Two grandchildren preceded her in death. Eleven great grandchildren survive as well as 5 sisters: Anna Mae Stumbo, Maggie Newman, Betty Vallone, Jeanie Frisco, Edna Sizemore and 1 brother, Willie F. Hall. Mom's soul was saved in the early 1950's. She gave her hand to be a member of the church on May 12, 1963. She was baptized May 26, 1963 by Elders Johnny King and Verman Hall at the Clear Creek United Baptist Church. Mom's light was placed on a candlestick for all the world to see. Her daily walk was a testimony of the Lord's work. On May 6, at 6:25 a.m. her last breath was taken. Her earthly chores were ended. She had waited faithfully for the Lord to call her home. For the many Christian Brothers and Sisters in the Lord who are left behind, Mom only made the journey first. Mom left behind many loving memories. We miss her warm smile, the loving care she showed all and the wonderful Christian advice. We miss her sitting in church at the end of the second row where she filled her seat faithfully for more than 40 years. Rest in peace, Mom.    Written by the family with broken hearts and all our love

Stumbo, Willie ~ It is with much sadness and sorrow, I will try to write the obituary of my dear husband, Willie K. Stumbo. Some people knew him as Bill Kit Stumbo. He worked many years in the coal mines, and was a heavy equipment operator for the road department, both State and County. He operated a road grader for several years. He was born June 4,1927 at McDowell, Kentucky, the son of Anna Mae Hall Stumbo and the late Lee Stumbo. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Christine Sexton Stumbo - 2 daughters, Brenda G. Tackett and Rita C. Stumbo, 2 sons, Kenneth R. Stumbo and Jeffery A. Stumbo and 7 grandchildren whom he loved dearly. He also leaves one brother, Walter L. Stumbo and three sisters, Eleanor Pack, Kathleen Prater and Betty Akers, also a host of nieces and nephews to mourn for him. He loved each and every one of them. He was preceded in death by his dad, Lee Stumbo, one brother, Charles E. Stumbo and one sister, Madeline Schmitz. Bill had to stop working in 1971, because of illness and has been sick for several years. He read his Bible and prayed, and in August 1986, he accepted the Lord as his personal saviour and was baptized on September 7, 1986, by Brother Ted Shannon and Greg Stumbo. He let his light shine and witnessed to anyone that would listen to him. He loved to talk about the Bible. It is a relief to know that he is not suffering any more and has no more pain. He is really missed by everyone who knew him and especially by the family. A precious one from us is gone, a voice so loved is stilled, a place made vacant in our home, that never can be filled.
Written by his lonesome wife, Christine, children and grandchildren
or Brother Bill Kitts' family, he's fought a good fight and kept the faith. Hence forth there's a Crown laid up for him. In closing precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his saints. Just sleep on until that Great Morning when the trumpet sounds. Then get up with the Saints of God. Your Brother in Hope, Brother Jimmy Hall

Tackett, Anne England ~ By the grace of God and with many precious memories, I will attempt to write an obituary of a dear Old Saint of God, Sister Anne Spurlock England Tackett. Sister Ann was born at Printer, Kentucky on August 25,1895 to the late Burl Spurlock and the late Jennie Halbert Spurlock Sizemore. She passed from the life July 11,1994, making her walk here on earth 98 years, 10 months, and 14 days. She had two sisters and four brothers to precede her in death: Luta Stumbo, Artie Moore, Henry Spurlock, John Sizemore, Hubert Sizemore and Herbert Sizemore. One sister still living, Nora Stumbo of Lexington, Kentucky. In early life Sister Ann married Tom England. Unto this union was born four children: Luta, Clarence, Clifford, and James. Tom (her husband); her daughter, Luta and son James preceded her in death. Later in life Sister Ann married Jerry Tackett who preceded her in death. Sister Ann began her teaching career at Caney Creek. In 1936 she came to McDowell Grade School as the Primer/First Grade Teacher. She touched so many young people's lives. She was a teacher considered by previous students to be someone both loved and feared. She disciplined sternly but loved unconditionally. She always had time for all students and made sure they were ready for the second grade. Her legacy of educating the students lives on. She retired in 1961.  Sister Ann joined the Old Regular Baptist Church July 11,1938. She took her membership at the Old Beaver Church which she loved dearly. She attended faithfully as long as her health permitted. She believed in the old time way and good order in church. The life she lived, her walk and talk proved this. She was a rock, a tower of strength to the old church. The church could also depend on Sister Ann. She spent many hours selling aprons, cookbooks and cooking to help brick the church. The love and fellowship Sister Ann held for her brothers and sisters was an inspiration to all. She was a Mother to all, especially to the young sisters. She lived her religion day and night and always showed great courage through her trials and tribulations. Even though Sister Ann had forgotten many things in her last days, she never forgot her Lord. In the last lonely days that she spent in her little humble home in the back lane at McDowell, she gave testimony to neighbors and friends that Jesus was coming to take her home. She would say, "I'm waiting for the Lord to come." On July 11,1994 in a nursing home in Circleville, Ohio, Sister Ann's long walk in this life came to an end. Her waiting for Jesus was over. So the Good Shepherd took her by the hand and she was led peacefully down the hill, through the valley and across the river to her eternal home. She will sleep for a little season, but soon to live again. Sister Ann will be remembered with love and respect by the following: two sons, Clifford England of Circleville, Ohio and Clarence England of McDowell; one sister, Nora Stumbo of Lexington, Kentucky; 12 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and 9 great, great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. Friend Kathryn Youemans

Tackett, Azzie ~ Azzie Tackett was born May 16, 1919. He died July 11,1995. He was 76 years old. He was the son of the late Andy and Martha White Tackett. He has one living brother, Walker Tackett of Teaberry and one living sister, Fanny Martin of Craynor. His brother Asa Tackett and two sisters, Rhoda Hamilton and Lacy Tackett preceded him in death. He was married to Goldie Newsome Tackett on October 31, 1938. She preceded him in death on March 9, 1990. They had ten children. Four sons: Acie Tackett and Luther Tackett of Grethel, Richard Tackett of Craynor and Hershel Tackett of Teaberry. Six daughters: Sylvia Jean Evans and Dora Newsome of Craynor, Dollene Tackett of Teaberry, Martha May Akers and Emma Lou Tackett of Grethel and Myrtle (deceased). He had 18 grandchildren and one deceased; six great grandchildren and one deceased. He was a retired coal miner. He was a member of United Mine Workers Local 8100. He loved to have horses around. He got great joy trading with other people. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Written by the family

Tackett, Don Gaylord "Red" ~ With much sadness and with the help of the Lord I will try to write an obituary of my brother. Don Gaylord (Red) Tackett was born November 22,1934 at Wales, Kentucky, the son of Alna Tackett and Dexter Little Tackett. He passed away July 29, 1995 at the St. Joseph Medical Center, Ft. Wayne, Indiana. Making his stay here 60 years, 7 months. He married Betty Young September 16, 1968 at Clintwood, VA. Left to mourn his loss besides his wife is his daughter Sheba Lyn Tackett of St. Cloud, Florida. Don loved her very much. Also three stepdaughters, Susan Garwood, Warren, IN, Jackie Riggers and Pattie Straus of Huntington, IN. Two stepsons, Tom Gray and Ted Whitney of Huntington, IN. His mother, Dexter Tackett, of Virgie, Kentucky. Three brothers, Torreon (Shorty) Tackett of St. Cloud, FL, Hubert Tackett of Roanoke, IN, and Ranee W. Tackett of Virgie, KY. Two sisters, Jackie Mussleman of Cary, NC and Patsy Burns of Huntington, IN. Several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. Don joined the Marine Corps in July 1953, and served his country until March 1957. Though he never joined church, I believe he had repented for he wasn't afraid to die. Don enjoyed going to the Old Regular Baptist and hearing the preaching and singing, and visiting with the many friends he made there. I truly believe he is at rest now. He is safe at home. Written by a sister who loved him very much, Patsy Burns

Tackett, Don ~ was a very pleasant and jolly person to be around. He always had a smile on his face. Although Don never joined the Old Regular Baptist Church, I feel and believe he was a true brother in heart. The scripture says ye shall know them by the fruit they bare, I feel and believe that Don bare the fruit of a child of God.
Written by Elder Jack Hamilton and Brother Garnis Tackett when I first met Don it was at the Northern Little Dove Church. Don was always happy and had a smile on his face. He loved the Old Regular Baptist doctrine. He was always serious when he talked about the Bible. I would like to say to his friends and family who haven't made peace with our Saviour, it is time to make it now, for we know not when we are going to face death. Don has told me that God had forgiven him of his sins. I believe his soul is resting around the Altar of God waiting for the Resurrection morning to be united with his new body, and to meet Jesus where peace and joy abounds forever, I hope that we are meet together around the Throne of God. I love Don and I miss him more than I can put in words.   Written by Brother Garnis Tackett, May God Bless You All

Tackett, Earsel ~ was born October 8,1927 at Beaver, Kentucky. He passed away October 30,1994. Earsel was the son of the late William and Mellie Hamilton Tackett of Beaver, Kentucky. Earsel was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta Tackett. Survivors include one son, Roger Tackett, one daughter, Patsy Tackett McKinney of Michigan, four grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Sadly missed, your memory lives on.
Written by your broken hearted granddaughter, Renee Tackett Stegall

Tackett, Effie Johnson ~  the daughter of George F.Johnson and Ardelia Johnson, was born May 16, 1911, and departed this life September 13,1993, making her stay on earth 82 years, 3 months, and 28 days. She was married to the late Leland V. Tackett who preceded her in death on August 19,1984. To this union were born five sons: Victor Eugene Tackett of Columbus, Ohio; Edward Allen Tackett of Melvin, Kentucky; Virgil Lee Tackett of Weeksbury, Kentucky; Donald Keith Tackett of Paintsville, Kentucky; and Larry Dean Tackett of Melvin, Kentucky, one daughter Esta Pearl Morin of Lincoln Park, Michigan. She leaves 19 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. She also leaves one brother, Frank Johnson of Garrison, Kentucky, and six sisters: Oma Hall of Melvin, Kentucky; Dorothy Hall of Willard, Ohio; Josie Hall of Albion, Michigan; Lettie McCoy of Robinson Creek, Kentucky; Irene Corns of Vanceburg, Kentucky; and Mollie Cooper of Garrison, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her father, George F. Johnson in 1973, her mother, Ardelia Johnson in 1913, her stepmother, Dolly Johnson in 1986, one brother, John Morgan Johnson, four sisters, Lula Johnson in 1960, Rose Bryant, Carrie Tackett, Laura Hall, and one grandson Glenn Edward Tackett in 1972.Mother was a firm believer in the Regular Baptist faith and even though she had not attached herself to the church, there is no doubt in our minds or hearts based on the life she led that she had made peace with the Lord and that her soul is now with God. She is sadly missed by all of her family and friends. Written by the family

Tackett, Elvira ~ Elvira Tackett was born April 28,1906 on Long Fork of Shelby Creek. There she spent most of the remaining 89 years and 25 days of her earthly stay. It ended May 23,1995. She was the daughter of the late Eli Tackett and the late Elizabeth Jane Hampton Tackett. She was married to Liss Tackett August 25,1921. To this union was born 7 children. She is survived by 2 sons: Landon Tackett, Hager Hill, Kentucky, and Vogal Tackett, Virgie, Kentucky. Two sons, Danny and Darlin Manuel preceded her in death. She is survived by 2 daughters: Ellen Hudson, Virgie, Kentucky and FloreneTaylor, Phelps, Kentucky. One daughter Helen Fern preceded her in death. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and one step great grandchild, all of whom she loved very much. She leaves behind one brother, Elijah Tackett of Melvin, Kentucky and 4 half brothers and 5 half sisters. She was baptized at the Long Fork Regular Baptist Church in July 1950 and remained there for 45 years as faithful caring member until the Lord called her home. She was a very pleasant person always ready to help the church in her own quiet peaceful way. She supported the church prayerfully, financially and physically when possible. She was very intelligent and not afraid to work. She was an excellent singer and her greatest joy was praising the Lord. After much suffering early one morning her soul just quietly slipped away where the Joy of heaven waited to greet her. Her last desire before God took her home was for her family to see her example, be born again and all join her around God's great throne.

Tackett, Elder Emmitt ~ At the request of the family and by the help of the Lord, I will try to write the obituary of Elder Emmitt Tackett. Brother Emmit was born May 27,1919, the son of Jim Tackett and Melissa Hall Tackett, both deceased. The call from heaven came to Brother Emmitt, Saturday, December 17,1994 at 1:45 p.m., making his stay here on earth 75 years and six months. In the year of 1938 on April 2, Brother Emmitt married Goldie Mitchell. God blessed this home with four daughters, Sylvia Jean Phillippi, Palistine Horen, Eveline Rudnicki, all of Michigan and Alva Mae Tackett who was called to heaven at the age of nine months. Brother Emmitt and Sister Goldie enjoyed their life even more when they were blessed with two sons, Andy Lee of Kentucky and Harmon J. (Jay) of Michigan. After almost 37 years of being in love and sharing their life together, on January 25, 1975, the Angels from heaven came to carry Sister Goldie home. Knowing that it wasn't good for Brother Emmitt to live alone, God saw a need to bring a good Christian woman and mother, Ann Marie Isaac, into the life of Brother Emmitt. Brother Emmitt and Sister Marie Isaac were joined together in marriage by Elder Lloyd Smith on June 7, 1975. In this, Brother Emmitt was blessed with the privilege of being a daddy to Sister Marie's four daughters, Sylvia Lee Hall of Kentucky, Geronda Faye Perfitt and Betty Lou Caudill of Michigan, Phyllis Banny of Ohio, and two sons, James G. Isaac and Kermit Lester Isaac, both of Ohio. They too will miss Brother Emmitt very much. Brother Emmitt left six brothers to mourn his departing, Lee of North Carolina, Charles, Jimmy, and Grant of Kentucky, and Johnny and Harold of Ohio, and one sister Marie O'Brien of Kentucky. He also leaves to mourn his passing his much loved sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, sons-in-law, daughters- in-law, 29 grandchildren, 39 great grandchildren, and a host of friends and relatives. Brother Emmitt was baptized into the fellowship of the Little Ida Old Regular Baptist Church on December 11,1960 and was ordained as a Deacon on May 7,1977. After serving the church as a Deacon in a faithful manner, Brother Emmitt felt that the Lord had called him to go and preach the Gospel. He was ordained as a minister on April 2,1983 at the Little Ida Church. Brother Emmitt moved to Kentucky in 1979 and later helped to establish Little Pilgrim's Rock Old Regular Baptist Church in Waynesburg, Kentucky. He remained an humble and faithful servant at Little Pilgrim's Rock until Jesus called him home.  Written with much love in my heart for you all, Elder Johnie Bentley

Tackett, Finis ~ It is with great love and many wonderful memories we will try to write the obituary of our loving husband, father and grandfather. There are so many things in our hearts that we could say about Dad. He gave us good advice and taught us to be loving and kind to all. Finis Tackett was born at Wales, Kentucky, July 13,1911 and departed this life June 25,1995 making his stay upon this earth, 83 years, 11 months, and 25 days. He was the son of the late Hiram Tackett and Ella Henson Tackett. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Maudie Tackett. of Catlettsburg, Kentucky, one daughter, Avonelle Stringer of Ashland, Kentucky, a son Ralph Tackett of Catlettsburg, Kentucky, four grandchildren, Belinda Amos of Catlettsburg, Kentucky, Katrina Bowers of Woodstock, Georgia, Paul Stringer, Jr. of Ashland, Kentucky, Alan Stringer of Flatwoods, Kentucky. Also surviving are eight great grandchildren, Ryan and Sarah Amos, Lauren, Chase and Megan Bowers, Kaitlin, Ben and Leslie Stringer, he is also survived by a sister, Hattie Tackett of Robinson Creek, Kentucky. Although he never joined the church by water baptism, when he accepted the Lord he received the baptism of the Holy Spirit and that is what is required to be born again. He has told me and his children we had nothing to worry about, that he had a better home to go to and I believe his name has been recorded in the Lamb's Book of Life. He loved the Old Regular Baptist Church and was always eager to go. Although he had a hearing problem and could not always hear the message being preached, he did not let this keep him from going to church and enjoy the fellowship with his church family and friends. We believe our loss is Heaven's gain, and our hope is that we will all be united in Heaven some day. Oh, we miss him so much for he was truly loved by his family. But one glad day we hope to meet him on the other side of Jordan's banks, where there will be peace and happiness one everlasting day, with the whole family of God. We love you, Dad. Written by his wife, Maudie, and his son and daughter

Tackett, Mellie ~ Mommy was a kind and loving, caring woman. She never really had to much to say. She was easy going, soft spoken, when she thought you needed to hear something she would let you know. She lived a long and happy life with her husband, little Ellis Tackett. Together they were blessed with fourteen children. Ten of those children are still living, Wanda Lee Tackett, Edith Jones, Georgie Tackett, Sarah Faye Hamilton, Ellis Orville Tackett, Dorthy Helen Hall, Eileen Tussey, Andy Lee Tackett, Dixie Lee Tackett and Charles Terry Tackett. All who loved and miss her very much, they hope to see her again some day. It was a sad time for Mommy when she had to give up four of her children, Wilma Lee, Maudie Florence, Arnold Lee and Donald Ray. She had 28 grandchildren, three of those grandchildren preceded her in death. She had 24 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. She was born on May 16,1913 to Wilburn and Liddie Bentley. She had six sisters and two brothers, Joe, Andy, Lizza, Liddie, Lily Mae, Ella, Lissie, and Becky, all who preceded her in death. Mommy loved having all kinds of pets to take care of. You could always see her in her garden or feeding the chickens. She really loved to go shopping. Mommy didn't get to church much. Daddy was in the Old Regular Baptist Church for 35 years. Mommy knew church life and had faith and believed in God. On May 14, 1994 Mommy had a major stroke. She lost her speech and could not eat anything. She had to be put on a feeding machine. While Mommy was in the hospital she reached out to some of the children. She would take them by their coat or just reach to them and then she would reach to the ceiling as if she was pointed to the Heavens and letting us know that she was ready to go to be with Daddy. On May 4,1995 all of Mommy's pain and suffering was over. We know in our hearts that she was right with God and is walking with daddy. She is with all those family and friends that went before her. And even though she is not here with us, she will always be in our hearts and in our minds. We know that if we make it to Heaven, we will see her again. She'll reach out her hand and say come in. Written by her loving family

Tackett, Mid ~  85, of Little Robinson Creek of Virgie, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, September 18, 1994, at 6:15 p.m., at the Pikeville Methodist Hospital, following a long illness. After much praying and thinking of our lives together, I will attempt to write an obituary in loving memory of the most precious person in my life, Mid Tackett, my darling husband. Mid was born March 1,1909, to the late Taulby and Sarah Ray Tackett. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Willa Black Tackett and a brother and two sisters. Also, Mid is survived by his wife of 22-1/2 years, Mazie McCown Tackett; six children: Hershel Tackett, Homer Tackett, Lonnie Tackett, all of Columbus, Ohio; Dayton Tackett of Warsaw, Indiana; Wanda Osborne of Paintsville, Kentucky; and Virginia Damron of Virgie, Kentucky. Other survivors include two adopted children, Craig Tackett of Virgie, Kentucky; Cheryl Ann Cline of Johns Creek, Kentucky; one stepson, Verlin McCown of Virgie, Kentucky; and one brother, Russell Tackett, Churubusco, Indiana, 18 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, 5 step-grandchildren and 16 step great grandchildren. Mid will be sadly missed by his loving family and friends. Written by his loving wife, Mazie Tackett

Thacker, Faye ~ By the help of my sweet Saviour, I will try to write the obituary of my dearest sister, Faye Thacker. Faye passed this life January 30, 1995. She was born in Pike County, March 19,1942, a daughter of the late Bill and Haley Hall Keene. She was employed by the Pike County Board of Education as a custodian at Millard High School and worked for the Professional Associates Building as a custodian. Faye was a member of the Elizabeth Church at Fords Branch. She was a member of the Old Regular Baptist for 21 years. Faye was preceded in death by her husband, James Ray Thacker who died December 20,1980. She leaves to mourn her loss one son, Johnny Lee Thacker of Wolfpit, and one daughter, Haley Oney of Lizzie Fork, one step daughter Sheila Hatton of West Union, OH, four sisters: Kelsie Charles of Dryfork, Maxine Charles of Goshen, IN, Bertha Belcher of Illinois, and Fayetta Slone of Greasy Creek, five brothers: Elder Ted Keene Robinson of Chloe Road, Ervine Keene of Justiceville, Bennie Keene of Akron, OH, Billy Keene of IN, and Roger Keene of Greasy Creek, two grandchildren and three step grandchildren. Sis, I've missed you coming to my house and sitting down at my table, like you did so many times. I still look for you on Sunday evening after church. It's hard to believe you are really gone but God needed another rose for his garden and he picked you and left me behind. He wasn't ready for me just yet. When it comes my time to go, I believe I'll meet you again in a better world than this. Sleep on Sis and take your rest, until the morning comes that God has promised us, then we'll be satisfied.
Written by Sister Kelsie Charles

Triplett, Eva ~ Eva was born February 2, 1901 and died March 30, 1995, making her stay on Earth 94 years, 1 month and 28 days. She was the daughter of Alex Wicker and Rhoda Hicks. On May 23, 1918 she married Frank Triplett. To this union 11 children were born. Eight sons, Jimmy Triplett, Kelly Triplett, Kendall Triplett, Elva Triplett, Oakie Triplett, Shelby Triplett, Carson Triplett, and Harrison Triplett. Three daughters, Sue Goris, Minnie Davis, and Victoria Jasper. Two brothers, Will Wicker and Sol Wicker are left to mourn her passing, along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank, and two children, Shelby and Kelly. Eva joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in 1925 at Stonecoal and attended regularly until her health would no longer permit her to. She loved the church and loved to hear the old songs of Zion sung. Mamaw had a hard time raising 10 children, in a time when there was little or no money and no jobs. She managed to keep food on the table and clothes on their backs, often times by working from before daylight to after dark. But even though she had her family to feed, she found a need to help her neighbors. Often times sharing what little food she had with them. One neighbor told me of the time when his father had broken his leg, it was the spring of the year, and time to plant the garden. He said he remembered wakening one morning to noise outside, and looking and seeing Eva plowing their garden with a mule. That was the kind of neighbor she was. Over seventy years ago, Mamaw made arrangements for this day. She gave her hand and joined this church, so that when it came time to go home, her children and grandchildren could say that she is in a better place.   Written by her grandson, Terry Wayne

Vanderpool, James "Jim" ~ With the help of the Lord, I will attempt to write the obituary of a dear friend and most of all a brother in the Lord. Brother Jim joined the church and was baptized in the rest home by Elder Clinton Moore and Elder Jimmy Hall and took his membership to the Stone Coal Regular Baptist Church about one year before his death. Brother Jim was born January 26,1910 at Hueysville, Kentucky to the late John and Martha Patton Vanderpool, whom he loved with all his heart. He was preceded in death by three brothers: Ed, Jack, and Buck Vanderpool and five sisters: Julie Vanderpool, Gracie Tuttle, Polly Hall, Rosie Vanderpool, and Laura Conley. On April 22,1933 he married Ollie Dyer. They were blessed to stay together 59 years. Sister Ollie was a great inspiration to Brother Jim and all that knew her until her passing. The greatest thing Brother Jim ever done in his life was when he looked up for the Lord to help him. On January 26,1995, his birthday, God's gift to Brother Jim was "That's enough my child come on up a little higher and rest in my garden until the resurrection morning. All of your pain, sorrow, and grief is over now. In closing, thanks to everyone that helped in any way, his friends, brothers and sisters in the Lord. A special thanks to his special nephew Arron Tuttle and Arron's wife Roma, for the love and kindness they showed to Jim. May God Bless you all forever. Rest now my brother until we meet again. Written by Elder Jimmy Hall

Walters, Hattie Mullins  ~ was born June 15,1908 in Wheelwright, KY and departed this life April 4, 1995. She became a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church at Melvin, KY in June 1941. This obituary was written by Hattie a few years before her death. I married Frank Mullins when I was seventeen years old and he was nineteen. We raised seven children which we dearly loved: Julius of Melvin, KY; Eugene of Fairborn, OH; Fonetta Hilterban of Peebles, OH; Marcella Hilterbran of Nicholasville, KY; Bulius of Fairborn, OH; and Richard of Lynchburg, OH. (She was preceded in death by one son, James Aaron). I have 24 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren, and 5 great, great grandchildren. After the death of my husband, Frank, on March 15, 1956,1 later married Howard Walters, who died December 1, 1971. When my life has passed, how glad I shall be that the lamp of my life has been shining for me. I shall not regret what I give for labor, or money for sinners to save. I shall not mind that the road has been rough, for my Savior watched and guided me from all harm, and that will be enough when I am dying. How glad I shall be that the lamp of life has been shining for me. To my mourning children, we will meet again in that beautiful place called Heaven, where we shall part no more. We saw the dark clouds approaching, coming nearer and nearer each day. We understand its mission was to take her away. We did all we could to prevent it, but her mission was completed. There was a new home waiting, which Jesus had gone to prepare. Jesus saw her getting weary, He did what he knew was best. He put his arms around her and whispered, "Come to rest." In a land where there is no sickness, no sorrow, heartache or pain. Where our loved ones won't be afflicted, but will be strong again. Fading away like the stars of the morning, losing their light in the glorious sun. Thus would she pass from this earth and its toiling, to be remembered by what we have done.
Written by Mother and her family

Warrens, Hershell ~ Who passed away May 26,1995 in Columbus, Ohio at the home of his daughter, Marietta Griffin. We believed with all our hearts that Dad is at rest. We would sit days and many nights. Daddy would pray and ask God to forgive him of all his sins. Dad was born January 15,1912, He was the son of Hawley and Caroline Moore Warrens. My Daddy and Mother were married March 24, 1930. They spent 65 years together. To them were born three children, Marietta Griffin of Columbus, OH, Patsy Jenkins of Columbus, OH, Melba Carol Warrens, my sister who passed away when she was 11 months old. Daddy and Mother had six grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and two great, great grandchildren. Dad had five brothers and three sisters. My Daddy loved the Old Regular Baptist Church, he always said Steels Creek Church was home to him. The memories of Dad will always remain in our heart. We are so thankful we were blessed with the kind of Daddy we had. We miss and loved you so much. Your daughters,, Marietta Griffin and Patsy R. Jenkins   

Webb, Rhonda Louise ~ With the help of the Lord, I will try to write an obituary of my beloved daughter, Rhonda Louise Webb. She left us to be with Jesus May 7,1995. She was born to Ronald and Louise Webb on December 23, 1947, in Knott County, but was a citizen of Floyd County. She was a former licensed practical nurse at Pikeville Methodist Hospital and a member of The Freewill Baptist Church. She leaves behind to mourn her loss, her son, Richard Webb, Mommy and stepfather, Richard Church, sister, Lynda Joyce Howard, one stepsister, Velma Martin. She was loved by all who knew her.
Written with a sad and broken heart by her mother and step-father, Richard Church

Williams, James Lannie "Mink" ~ With the help of the Good Lord I will write an obituary of my brother. James Lannie Williams was born November 16,1953. He died November 10, 1994 at the age of 40. He was the son of Ersey (Hall) Williams and the late James Luther Williams. Everyone knew him as "Mink". He was a sweet and dear friend, as well as a brother. Mink left behind to mourn his death, his mother, three brothers and three sisters. He has a sister who preceded him in death. Mink joined the "Little Rock" Old Regular Baptist Church April 16, 1988, but waited to be baptized the next day so his younger brother, Dudley, could be there. Although Mink had no children of his own, he left behind six nephews and five nieces who he called his "little family". Everyone that knew "Mink" loved him. Although his life was short here, he has left behind a long life of memories. He will forever be in our hearts. We will miss him dearly. But we believe with all our hearts he is resting in the arms of Jesus.
Written by his sister. Teresa and family

Williams, Ruby ~ It is with great sadness and a broken heart that I will attempt to write the obituary of my loving mother, Ruby Joyce (Robinson) Williams of Breaks, VA. Mother passed away Thursday, July 13, 1995, at Buchanan General Hospital in Grundy, VA, of a massive heart attack, at the age of 69. She was born at Greasy Creek, (Pike County) KY, on August 8, 1925, to Adam Robinson and Spicy (Damron) Robinson. She was the youngest of nine children born of the union. On May 16,1945 at Pikeville, KY, she became the wife of Ira Williams, who survives her. Daddy is the son of John and Draxie (Hopkins) Williams. To this union on August 20,1946 was born a daughter, Drucilla (Williams) Styles of Little Beaver, Elkhorn City, KY. Mother and Daddy joined the Little Rebecca Old Regular Baptist Church in Plymouth, OH, in 1970. Due to illness in the family they moved back to Kentucky to take care of Daddy's parents, and in 1986 moved their letters to the Greasy Creek Old Regular Baptist Church. They both became Deacons at the Home Church, and were borrowed Deacons at Little Pond Regular Baptist Church at Draffin, Kentucky, and Indian Creek Regular Baptist Church at Wise, Virginia. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Sammy Robinson and six sisters, Bertha Blair, Cora Justice, Maxie Riley, Edna Ratliff, Ida Keen and Georgia Mallie Ratliff. A sister, Edra DeMaw of Texarkana, Arkansas, survives her along with several nieces and nephews and scores of friends and neighbors who sadly miss her and mourn her passing. On May 16, 1995 Mother and Daddy celebrated their Golden (50th) Wedding Anniversary. Daddy did what he could to help mother, and July 13 th, he carried her in his arms for his last time. Mother let her Light Shine for all to see, even when she wasn't able to attend Church she would still try to go. Although her stay was brief, I thank God that he looked at all the Mothers and chose you for me. On her bed I heard her say, "Dear Lord, thy will be done!" Mother we love you and we miss you so very much and for all of the happiness we have known, we will forever grateful stay.
Written by a broken hearted husband and daughter

Wright, Betty Alvin Nell ~ In loving memory of our dear mother, Betty Alvin Nell Wright. She was born January 12,1924 at Belcher, Kentucky. The daughter of the late Plato Quesenberry and Lucy Jane Looney Quesenberry. She passed this life September 7,1995, making her stay on earth 71 years, 7 months, and 26 days. On September 5, 1942, she married Walter Wright and to this union was born seven children. She is survived by her husband, Walter Wright of Dorton, six daughters, Mary Redmond of Austin, Texas, Minerva Brown of Tremont, Kentucky, Virginia Akers of Caney, Dorthy Ray of Wyandotte, Michigan, Betty Thacker of Dorton, and Mona Harley of Robinson Creek. One son, Bobby Wright of Dorton, two granddaughters she raised, Connie Garcia of Austin, Texas and Linda Fields of Perrysburg, Ohio; 21 grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Also surviving, one brother, Jake Quesenberry of Morgon Hill, California, one half brother, Lamorn Quesenberry of Indiana, two step brothers, Junior and Herman Puckett of Elkhorn City, one sister, Christine Toler of Nashville, Tennessee, one half sister, Shelby Jean McCoy of Regina, two step-sisters, Madge Hylton and Ellen, both of Elkhorn City, and one sister who preceded her in death, Flolene Minnick. Mother joined the Old Caney Creek Church in April 1951 and called it her home for over 44 years. She loved her children and grandchildren and they brought her much joy. It was her wish that they love one another, help each other and to take care of Daddy. Mother told us not to worry about her and that she was alright. She is gone home to a better land where there is no more pain and suffering and where some morning she will receive that perfect body most likened unto Christ's. Our loss is Heaven's gain and although she's sorely missed, we would not call her back even if we could. Written by her broken hearted children

Younce, Emma Jane ~ was born January 7,1942 to Glen and Carrie Johnson Tackett in Floyd County, Kentucky who later moved to Garrison, Kentucky where Emma Jean grew up. She later came back to Floyd County where she met and married Douglas McArthur (Mack) Younce. And unto this union were born two daughters, Loretta Lynn Collins and Patty Louise Younce, one son, Douglas Eugene Younce, all of Lenoir, North Carolina, four grandchildren, Loretta's two girls, Amy and Ashley Collins, Patty's girl, Misty Younce and Douglas' boy, Kevin Younce. Five brothers: Edward Tackett, Ben Tackett, Carlos Tackett and Glen Tackett Jr. all of Garrison, Kentucky, and Homer Tackett of Portsmouth, Ohio. Six sisters: Thelma Jones, Melvin, Kentucky, Betty Bloomfield, Bucyrus, Ohio, Ester Skidmore, Martha Ellen Skidmore and Nella Thurman all of Garrison, Kentucky and Eliza Jane Ferguson of Lenoir, North Carolina. Emma Jean and Mack moved to North Carolina where they could be near their children, close to a year before she became sick and died. She passed away on October 14,1994 at the North Carolina Baptist Hospital in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Her stay with us was a short 52 years, 8 months, and 27 days. She joined the Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church at Melvin, Kentucky on May 5,1979 and was baptized the same day. Old Regular Baptist Ministers Spencer Hall, Ed Tackett and other from Lewis County and the surrounding area conducted the services at her funeral. We are very grateful to all for attending and are grateful for the thoughts of others who could not be there. Emma Jean was buried at the cemetery where her parents and other family member are buried (Skidmore Cemetery at Garrison, Kentucky.) She was a member of a very large family that will never forget our love for her. We will carry her image with us always and we miss her very much.
Written by a loving sister, Thelma Tackett Jones, and a loving niece, Willa Dean Jones Elswick