ADKINS, HI P.
With the help of our Lord, I will try, with a sad and broken heart, to write the obituary of our dear Uncle, Hi Adkins. Uncle Hi was born March 21, 1917 to the late George W. and Elizabeth "Lizzie" Alley of Pikeville, KY. Hi was one of 12 children born to this union. Hi met and married Maggie Beverly August 20, 1938. To this union 4 children were born: Estil (wife, Authulia); George (wife Barb); Wendell (wife Jewell); and Eula Faye (husband, Arnold Dameron), all of whom are left to mourn their father's passing. Uncle Hi and Aunt Maggie were members of the Proctor Freewill Baptist Church. Uncle Hi passed away March 9, 1998 at the age of 80 years. Uncle Hi was the last living of all his siblings. On January 29, 1989 we buried my Poppie, Tom Adkins, who passed away at the age of 80 years. After Poppie's death all us children turned to Uncle Hi to fill the void in our lives. Uncle Hi and Aunt Maggie have always been here for the family. We miss him dearly. Our family reunion was not quite the same this year, not only was Uncle Hi gone, but Aunt Maggie wasn't feeling well so she, too, was unable to be with us. Uncle Hi and Maggie loved to see company come. You could feel the love as you walked into the door. Aunt Maggie, I know you loved and miss Uncle Hi more than I can even imagine, but press on, take care of yourself and pray that the good Lord will help you through the hard times and bless you the rest of your natural life. One day you will all meet again in a land where there are no heartaches, and you can live on together forever, if it be the Lord's will. We all love you and we will carry our memories of Uncle Hi with us forever.
Written by your neice and Sister in Christ, Karen Elliott

AKERS, FORREST "LITTLE APPLE"
We would like to honor and share with you some of the many special events in the life of our special Uncle, Forrest Akers. He was a good, honest man and loved by all who knew him.On October 22, 1922, in Floyd County, the Andy and Wyona Hopkins Akers family welcomed a new baby boy; they named him Forrest.He was blessed with three brothers and five sisters. Times were tough in the Eastern Kentucky area; however, in this family, loved was plentiful. Their bonds of love grew as they grew up needing and depending on each other. In this family there was lots of love to go around. A brother, Truman Akers of Bevinsville, KY and five sisters: June Miller, Ruth Nelson and Carolyn Akers, all of Ashland, Orbustus Kazee of Flatwoods, KY, and Betty Cox of Pedro, Ohio are left to mourn our loss. Uncle Forrest grew up, joined the Navy during World War II during which time he was wounded (crippled for life). He received the Purple Heart. He was a dedicated, decorated soldier who served his country with great honor and pride. He married the late Eunice Slone Akers, who preceded him in death. To this union, God sent two daughters: Joan Gail Akers of Topmost, KY and Anna Abercrombie of St. Petersburg, Florida. He was employed by the Inland Steel Company at Wheelwright, KY, with whom he retired after years of dedicated, loyal service. Aunt Eunice preceded him in death leaving him with Joan (Downs Syndrome child - our angel) to care for. Even with this great load he stood tall, was a wonderful father, and never gave up his faith and courageous spirit. This household was blessed. God sent an angel to take care of Uncle Forrest and little Joan. The angel's name was Shirley Jones. She came to be their housekeeper and care for the both of them. She became family as if she had always belonged in this home. I truly believe God sent an angel because he knew Uncle Forrest's and Joannie's great need. Throughout all these burdens, Uncle Forrest kept that warm smile, never giving up. I feel God made him strong because He knew his heavy load. If God ever lived in any home, I feel He lived there in the Akers' home. Even though he is away ... he's there always in spirit, for he left an angel in a wheelchair, little Joan. Uncle Forrest is only away in body, for you can feel his spirit when you go there to visit. His favorite place in the room and his favorite chair always make you feel he's watching you. The fond memories this wonderful uncle left behind will remain with us all forever. He was like a father to a lot of us nieces and nephews in the family. He loved children and seemed to relate to their every need. He is not really gone, he's just away with a friend. I sincerely believe God has taken a special rose from His earthly garden and planted it around that great white throne. He is greatly missed by his family, his memory will live with us forever. He added so much sunshine and joy to a lot of our lives. How could we ever forget? We would like to thank all Uncle Forrest's friends and loved ones for their many prayers ... he was like a father! We are so thankful we had the joy and opportunity of knowing Uncle Forrest. I feel greatly honored and blessed to have been able to call him my uncle. He was one of the best rnen I've ever met in my entire life.
Written by his niece, Joyce Waddles Campbell

AKERS, JENETTA JARRELL
Jeanetta Akers was bom August 21, 1924, and died August 28, 1998. It is with a sad and broken heart, but I will attempt to write the obituary of my dear, sweet mother-in-law. I also know that all the families' hearts are broken as well. But we watched Mom (Granny) lay and look up into Heaven, smile and mumble sweet praises to her Lord and Savior. Mom (Granny) is where she wants to be, with her sweet Master. We've known this lady since we were babies, and she's meant the world to us. She was a kind and special lady, always doing what her Master commanded. She lived her life doing the work of the Lord, leading a pathway for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to follow, the golden path to Heaven. Jeanetta Jarrell Akers, daughter of Mirphy Jarrell and Daisy Conn Jarrell Adkins was bom on August 21, 1924, and departed this life on August 28,1998, making her stay here on earth seventy-four years and seven days. She was preceded in death by her father, mother, and three baby sisters. She met and married Thurman Akers on March 12, 1943. Unto this union were bom two sons, Bobby Joe of Prestonsburg, KY, and Teddy Ray of Dana, KY, four grandchildren: Bennie, Dennis and Mike, all of Dana, KY, and Barbara Jo of Prestonsburg, KY; three great-grandchildren: Kelsie, Brandon and Allison all of Dana, KY. She also leaves behind two sisters, Lorene Cordial and Mary Wallen, both of Dana, KY, and a host of relatives and friends. Mom (Granny) joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on August 21, 1966. She joined at the water with her husband (Grandad) and was bapatized the same day, no doubt making this the happiest day of her life. Mom (Granny) was sick for so many years, but she never complained, even when she had the stroke that had her in bed, and when things in her mind didn't seem right for almost a year, she never com- plained. She would always smile and say she was fine. You see, Mom (Granny) was one of God's children, and He always took care of her, giving her the humbleness we all need to face things in this old troubled world. We want to thank everyone who helped so much during her sickness. A special thanks to Pauletta Hughes, Sue Akers and Ruth Boyd, her two sisters, who were so faithful to her to the very end. For all my family, who were the backbone and support when at the end was needed so much, for all the friends that came and showed so much respect and helped in so many ways, God will reward each and every one of you. This humble lady has gone on home to be with Jesus. Something over the last several months she wanted to do was to "go home." So Mom (Granny), you are home and, no doubt in our minds, shouting the praises of glory. So sleep on, Mom, (Granny) and by the grace of God we will see you in the sweet by and by.
Written for her husband and family by her daughter-in-law, with love, Janice Akers

AKERS, JULIA
With the help of the Lord, and with untold sorrow in my heart, I will try to write this obituary of my loving wife and darling companion.She was by my side for over 56 years in sickness and in health, in happiness and in sorrow, through good times and bad. The loss of her is so great as to be nearly unbearable. She never joined the church, but she loved to attend, and she dearly loved the brothers and sisters. She raised our thirteen children with a firm but loving hand and she was loved and respected for her efforts. Her warm, loving ways encompassed those around her, and she was loved in return by those who knew her. Julia was born July 25, 1925 to Melvina and Leva (Hall) Holbrook. She departed this life on August 11, 1998, making her stay here on earth 73 years and 17 days. We were married March 27, 1942 making our union 56 years, 4 months and 15 days. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Sharon Akers of Lynchburg, Oh.: a step-daughter, Anita Blaylock of Edgerton, Oh.; a great-granddaughter, Cinnamon Elking of Hillsboro, Oh.; four sisters: Virgie Slone of Dearborn, Mi., Martha Jane Mead of St. Mary's Oh., Venice Gibson of Ligon, Ky., and Essie Thornsbury of S. Carolina. She is survived by her husband, Jacob Akers of Lyncburg, Oh.; one sister, Ellie Blair of St. Mary's, Oh.; 2 stepchildren, Joe Akers of St. Petersburg, Fl., and Daneen Sturgis of Milford, Oh.; 9 children: Lillian Elking of Hillsboro, Oh., Sheila Newkirk of Belfast, Oh., Gary of Belfast, Jerry of Lebanon, Ky., Patricia Tong of Lynchburg, Oh., David of Gaines, Pa., Karen Leatherman of Lynchburg, Oh., Jacob D. of Hillsboro, Oh., and Keith of Hillsboro, Oh.; 47 grandchildren, and 41 great-grandchildren. She leaves a great void in the lives of all those she has left behind.
Written by her loving husband

AKERS, SHARON
With the help of the Lord, we will try to write the obituary for our beloved daughter and sister, Sharon Akers, who was born December 16, 1942 and departed this life October 20, 1997, making her stay here on earth 54 years, 10 months, and four days. She was the daughter of Jacob and Julia (Holbrook) Akers. Having the mind of a little child, we feel sure she will go to rest around the Throne of God, where there will be no sickness and sorrow.She will be greatly missed by her loving parents, five sisters and six brothers: Joe C. Akers of St. Petersburg, Fl., Daneen (Akers) Sturgis of Milford, Oh., Lillian (Akers) Elking of Hillsboro, Oh., Sheila (Akers) Newkirk of Belfast, Oh., Gary Akers of Belfast, Oh., Jerry Akers of Lebanon, Ky., Patricia (Akers) Tong of Lynchburg, Oh., David Akers of Gaines, Pa., Karen (Akers) Leatherman of Lynchburg, Oh., Jacob D. Akers of Hillsboro, Oh., and Keith Akers of Hillsboro, Oh. We believe her dear sister Anita (Akers) Blaylock, who preceded her in death on November 1, 1981, will greet her on the other side. Sharon was a special gift who was loved and cherished by all who knew her, and especially by her loving family.
Written by her loving family

AMBURGEY, DWIGHT DEAN
Psalms 16 verse 8 and 9: 1 have set the Lord always before me, because He is always at my right hand. I shall not be moved, therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoice, my flesh shall also rest in hope. With a broken heart and much sorrow, I will try to write an obituary of my beloved nephew and Brother in the Lord, Dwight Dean Amburgey. Dwight was bom October 13, 1953 into the home of Arlie and Flossie Amburgey, who preceded him in death. I truly feel and believe that about 5:15 p.m. on September 20, 1998, God said, "Son, you have suffered enough," and God sent a little band of Angels to carry his soul home.On December 9, 1977 Dwight met and married Leshia Lynn Amburgey and unto this union three sons were born: Dwight Jr. (D.J.), Ryan Scott and Jordan, all at home to mourn his passing. He also leaves one sister, Patricia Ann Combs, and one half-sister, Sherry Dickerson; two half-brothers, Ellis Amburgey of Kite, Ky. and Jim Amburgey of Illinois. Dwight was ill for several years. Each time I saw him, or he was admitted to the hospital, he would always want me to hold prayer. He loved the church and always went as long as his health permitted. The family was called to the hospital toward the end of Dwight's life, each of them has his or her own expression and emotions about the last days spent with beloved Dwight. As for myself, I feel that Dwight died very peacefully; he didn't seem to suffer at all he just went to sleep in the arms of Jesus. We will miss him very much. It is so hard to accept the fact that he is not with us anymore, but we feel he is resting with the Lord, and that makes it much easier to bear. Leshia, I know you and the boys will spend many a lonely hour, you took such good care of him, even to the end. He isn't suffering any more, just press on and someday have a reunion that will never be broken again.
God bless and keep you all, Hauley King

AMBURGEY, FLOSSIE
It is with much sadness and a heavy heart, I will try to write the obituary of my dearly beloved sister and sister in the Lord, Flossie (King) Amburgey. Flossie was born April 18,1927 to Clarence and Virgie (Breeding) King, who preceded her in death. God called her away on July 24, 1998 making her stay here on earth 71 years, 3 months and 6 days. Flossie met and married Arlie Amburgey on May 20, 1950, who preceded her in death. Unto this union were born two children, Patricia Ann Combs of Ary, Ky, and Dwight Dean Amburgey of Pinetop, Ky. Sister Flossie was preceded in death by two brothers, Lloyd King and Aaron King, and 4 sisters: Goldie Holbrook, Thelma Burke, Wayne Beckner, and Revis King.Sister Flossie leaves to mourn her passing 5 brothers: Cratie King of Taylor, Michigan, Alvin King of Brentwood Tennessee, Smiley, Vernon, and Hauley, all of Kite, Ky. Also, she leaves us 2 sisters, Audrey Morrison and Maxine Floden, both of Louisville Ky. She also left to mourn 5 grandchildren: Justin and Cassie Combs and DJ, Ryan and Jordan Amburgey; 3 stepchildren: Ellis and Jim Amburgey and Sherri Dickerson; and 7 step-grandchildren. Sister Flossie found that she had a great need for a Savior. She felt with her whole heart that she made everything all right with God and she joined Reynolds Fork Old Regular Baptist Church on the third weekend in October, 1971. Later she moved her letter to the Rebecca Old Regular Baptist Church, where she was a faithful member until her death. Anyone who knows Flossie knew love, for she gave this out in great abundance to whomever she met. She would tell about her experience with God when she was young, and the pretty dreams or visions she had about Heaven. We all look forward to meeting her with Jesus, when our time comes. I feel she will be there to greet us again, and tell one of these beloved stories of her experience when she was young. Flossie and Jesus will take us on a grand tour of Heaven and if you want to go on this tour with us repent and be born again. Flossie, you were someone special to everyone who knew you, I know you are just sleeping now, Sissy, and in God's care. Someday I hope I will be able to join you.
Elder Hauley King

AMBURGEY, WILEY
It is with a sorrowful heart that I try to write the obituary of Wiley Amburgey. Wiley was born on June 21, 1917 to Monroe and Dicie Collins Amburgey. He was one of nine children, all of whom have preceded him in death. On December 10, 1938, Wiley married Grace Seals and to this union were born eight children, 4 boys and 4 girls. They are: Jewel Fields, Cornell Amburgey, Charlotte Banks, Sue Banks, Wiley Amburgey, Jr., James Amburgey, Deborah Huff, and Joe Amburgey. The family grew to include 25 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by one grandchild, Lisa Banks. God has blessed Wiley and Grace to have a large family and many, many wonderful years together. Though in these last few years there had been sickness and heartache, the Lord has truly smiled upon them. How happy we should be that God has allowed us the privilege of having a dad like Wiley Amburgey. Dad believed in working hard to provide for his family, from working shoveling coal in the mines, to carpentry work, he was never one who thought of himself over other people. On the outside, to people who didn't know him, he looked tough, but on the inside he had a good heart. Expressing how he felt came hard for Dad, but in his actions, we all knew that he loved and cared for us. I always admired Dad for his honesty and independent nature. Dad believed in the old ways, that actions spoke louder than words. I always thought Dad was a handsome man and in my eyes, he stood nine feet tall. He had earned the respect of his children and all the people who truly knew him. Most of the stories that he would tell were about his younger days, his travels, how he had met Mom, and about his hunting and fishing trips. When the Lord took Dad on October 18, 1997, he had just shot a deer. What better way could someone who loved hunting like he did leave this earth? Dad never joined the church, but his heart was with the Old Regular Baptist Church. He was a God fearing man and he knew where his blessings came from. Dad told some of us that he was all right. I believe that when the Lord called Dad away, he went to sleep in the arms of the Savior.
Written by his daughter, Deborah Amburgey Huff

BARTLEY, POMERINE
It is with a broken heart that we write a few words about our most thought of, and missed, Dad, Pomerine Bartley. Although he never took me fishing, he taught me of the great fisherman, Jesus. Pomerine Bartley was born June 7, 1930 at Virgie, Kentucky to the late Hart Vill and Matilda Bartley Tackett. Daddy departed this earth on May 29, 1947 at the age of 66 years, 11 months and 22 days. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ona Mae Adkins Bartley; two brothers, Sam Bartley and Gomer Bartley; two sisters, Elsie Hess and Edith Bartley; his stepfather, Arubry Tulsa, and one stepbrother, Coe Norris Tackett. He leaves to mourn one son, Gregory Dail, and his wife, Jeanetta Bartley of Pikeville, and two daughters, Diana Gail, and her husband, Gerald Mullins, of Pikeville, Ky.; Linda Elizabeth and her husband Larry Thacker, Kimper Ky.; eight grandchildren: Kenneth Gerald and Jason Polmer Mullins; Michael Edward, and Gregory Chase Bartley; and LaTonya Hall, Ashley Bre'an, Bridgette Renee and Megan Paige Thacker; two step-grandchildren, Danny Adkins and Shawna Hopkins; two great-grand- children and two step-great-grandchildren; and two very special nieces, Pamelene Kay Mullins of Jacksonville, FL and Margaret Ana Minix of Fords Branch, Ky.; one brother, Arnold Bartley of Putnam Co., Fl.; one stepbrother, Billy Joe Tackett, and two stepsisters, Emogene Newsome and Sue Swan, all of Michigan. Daddy was a member of the Elizabeth Old Regular Baptist Church at Fords Branch Ky. He was a retired member of the United Mine Workers of America, and a retired Federal Glass truck driver. Daddy met and married the beautiful Ona Mae Adkins on December 26, 1952, and to this union there were 3 children: Diana, Gregory, and Linda. Although they only had 3 children, they were rich with the love from their many nieces and nephews. He showed his nieces, Pamelene and Margaret, love and a guiding hand, along with his children, until his death. "Pops" was a very special uncle to them and filled the void in their hearts when they lost their dad, Sam Bo, in a mining accident. Daddy enjoyed filming his family and friends. We are so glad that he went around with a movie camera in his hand all the time. We now have many precious memories that we can view of our family and loved ones who have passed away. We realize that he is gone and cannot return, but with the grace of God we can all see him again. Pomerine will live in our hearts forever. Sleep on, sweet, loving Daddy, Pops, uncle, brother, and friend, until we meet again in Heaven.
Written by his broken-hearted children and nieces

BATES, VONDA   1928-1997
With the help of our dear Lord, we will try to write the obituary of our beloved companion and mother, Vonda Bates. Vonda was born on December 29,1928, and departed this life on December 30,1997, at the McDowell Appalachian Reoional Hospital, making her stay here on earth 68 years and one day. Vonda was the daughter of the late Harmon and Junette Kistner Butcher. On June 28, 1947, Vonda was united in marriage to Arlis Bates. They were married for 50 years, 6 months and one day. Unto this union were born one son and four daughters. Vonda is survived by her loving husband, Arlis Bates of Bevinsville, Ky.; one son, Danny Ray Bates of Nicholasville, Ky.; four daughters: Arlene Harper, Rita Lee Caudill, Sonia Johnson, and Carol Johnson, all of Bevinsville, Ky. She is also survived by one brother, Junior Butcher, of Hi Hat, Ky.; one sister, Bobbie Davis of Detroit, Michigan; I I grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one grandchild, Jeremy Caudill. She is sadly missed and loved by a host of relatives and friends.
Written by a broken-hearted husband and her loving children, with the help of Joyce Johnson

BELCHER, FLOETTA
With the help of our Lord and Savior I will try and write the obituary of a very loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and neighbor. Flo was born in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky on April 20, 1931, to the late Willie Belcher and Nannie Louise Case Belcher, both of Eastern, Kentucky. Born to Flo was one son, Willie Devon Belcher, whom she named after her father. Flo loved her son with all her heart. Times were hard for Flo, but one bright day she found a need for a Savior and started praying and begging God to forgive her and save her soul. Over the months she changed her life around and kept on praying. Then one day God forgave her and she joined the Caney Creek Old Regular Baptist Church, where she was a faithful member until her death. Flo passed away on November 21, 1997, in Wisconsin, where she was living with her son, who took wonderful care of her until her death, making her stay on this earth 66 years. Flo wanted to be brought back to her home in Kentucky upon her death, and her son did just as she requested. Flo was buried at her old homeplace on Hopkins Fork in Caney Creek, Kentucky. But most of all, Flo went home to be with Jesus. If Flo could, she would say, "Come and see me in my new home." Flo was sickly most of her life, so all of us would visit her. She would be content to sit up all night talking about God, family, and old times. Flo is survived by one son, Willie Devon Belcher of Wisconsin; one granddaughter, Tonya Belcher of Illinois, one former daughter-in-law, Sherry Belcher, also of Illinois; two brothers, Elder Herman Belcher of Michigan, and Ermel Belcher; four sisters: Marie Malone of Arkansas, Mae Burke of Michigan, Alberta Stockard of Illinois, and Jeanette Holland of western Kentucky; and a host of nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors. Floetta was preceded in death by her father, Willie Belcher, her mother, Nannie Louise Case Belcher, and a loving brother, Kermit Belcher. She will be sadly missed.
Written by her sister-in-law, Spicie Jean Belcher

BELCHER, MELLA LEA DAMRON & BELCHER, CHARLES LEE
With a sad and broken heart, I will try and write an obituary of my sister and her son. They are gone, but not forgotten. Mella Lea Damron Belcher was born March 23, 1945. She departed this life on February 20, 1964, making her stay on earth 18 years, 10 months, and 28 days. She was the daughter of the late Allen and Mella Damron of Penny Road, Caney Creek, Ky. Melia Lea met and married Charles Arnold Belcher of Harolds Branch, Pikeville, Ky. Unto this union was born one son, Charles Lee Belcher, who was born December, 1962. He departed this life February 20, 1964, making his stay on earth 1 year and 2 months. They were both killed in the same car accident. They left to mourn husband and father, Charles Arnold Belcher, her parents, the late Allen and Mella Damron; four sisters, the late Tilda Bitha Newsome of Albion, Michigan, the late Melster Stewart of Elkhorn City, Ky., Mary Nancy Johnson of Teaberry, Ky, and Rachel Brown of Virgie, Ky.; two brothers, Carlos Damron of Penny Road, Caney Creek, Ky, and Vernon Damron of Midland, Ky. Two brothers preceded her in death, Garnet Edward and Charles Allen Danuon. Also left at the time were 5 nephews and 2 nieces. Mella, I know you and Charles have been gone for 34 years, yet both of you are still lingering in my heart as if it were yesterday. Both had many friends and a smile for everyone, through many hard times met, you could always bring cheer to our family with your jokes. Mella and I were very close. When you and Charles were taken away, a piece of my heart was gone and will never be mended. May God bless us to meet again in Heaven.
Written by Sister Mary Nancy Johnson and nephew, Elder Michael Johnson

BELLOMY, JEWEL EDITH (JUDY) BURKE
With so much sadness and tears of sorrow, I'll try, with a broken heart and the help of a merciful God, to write this obituary of my precious sister, Judy Bellomy. Judy was born March 27, 1926 at Bevinsville, Ky. to the late George W. and Flossie Osborne Burke, and fell asleep in the arms of Jesus September 24, 1998. Judy was married to Ralph Bellomy August 1, 19---, and together they raised two beautiful children, one daughter, Donna Grisham, and one son, Ted Bellomy. She loved and treasured them. They were the light of her life.She leaves behind to mourn their loss her husband, Ralph, her children, Donna and Ted, her grandchildren, Maria, Katherine and Christopher, one son-in-law, Robert, and 1 daughter-in-law, Angie. Also surviving are two sisters, Teresa Cotton and Joan Cotton; three brothers: Ed, John and Dan Burke; and many nieces, nephews and friends who loved her dearly. One brother, George Jr., preceded her in death. Judy was a loving wife to Ralph, always by his side. She was so kind and loving, making everyone feel so welcome in her home. She always tried to take care of everybody. When Judy became ill, Ralph took such good care of her. He saw to her every need with a kind and loving heart. May God bless you, Ralph, for your patience and love for Judy. Judy suffered so much in the last few years. She said so many times she wished Jesus would come and take her home.Although her last week on earth she was in a coma, she seemed to smile several times when people spoke to her, and when Jesus came to take her home, she had such a peaceful, happy look. All her cares and worries just seemed to disappear from her face. She was just so beautiful. I believe with all my heart she's with Mom and Dad now. And I know they must be rejoicing. She finally got to go to another family reunion. I pray we will all meet again some sweet day. At last, Judy's safe at home. We all love you and we'll miss you so much.
Your broken-hearted sister, Teresa

BOYD, ARLEY  
In loving memory of Arley Boyd. It is with great sorrow and sadness that I will attempt to put into words an obituary for my dear Uncle, a second father, Arley Boyd. Arley was born here on Prater Creek, October 10, 1925, to the late Bennie and Rosie Boyd. He was the last of their six children. He passed from this earth on February 17, 1998, making his stay here on earth 72 years, 4 months and 7 days. He spent the early years of his life here on this little creek. This has always been home, no matter how far away he may have been. As many did, he went to war, putting his life on the line in World War II, so we could have the freedom we know today. In the army he served in Europe until the war was over. He did not say much about this part of his life, as many don't. We all owe Arley and all the others, the ones who came back and the ones who did not, more than we could ever know. On his return home he met and married Emogene Jarrell, on November 27, 1945, and from that point until his passing they spent and shared their lives together, and into this union were born five children. Arley worked as a carpenter for 40 years. He enjoyed building houses, bridges and dams. He was the last of his birth family, preceded in death by his mother and father, Rosie and Bennie Boyd, his brothers, Lynnie, Oakie, Milford and Wilford Boyd, and a sister, Bertha Conn, all of whom lived here on Prater Creek. Arley joined the Little Ida Baptist Church in Michigan, 1961. He leaves behind to mourn the passing of his life, his wife, Emogene Jarrell Boyd; three sons, T.J., Clifton, and Benjamin Boyd; two daughters, Caroline Dillion and Arlene Mitchell; fourteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; his brother and sisters-in-law, many, many nieces and nephews, and a world full of people who may have passed his way. We all love and will miss him very much. We know our lives were blessed to have had such a wonderful man pass our way. His absence has left a great void in our lives, an emptiness that can never be filled. Our hearts ache as we mourn our loss, but I feel he has piled up a few stones along the way, and is at peace, resting, waiting for that great resurrection morning.
Your loving nephew

BOYD, LILLIE BELLE KIMBLER
With a sad and lonely heart I will try to write a short obituary of our dear and loving mother, Lillie Belle Kimbler Boyd. Mom was born April 8, 1935 to Bob and Susie Kimbler at Honaker Kentucky. Mother was called Home on April 5, 1998 after a long battle with cancer. Mother was married to Aaron Boyd, December the 26, 1952, who preceded her in death in 1990, and to this union were born 7 children: Ross Dean Boyd, Louisville, Kentucky; James Edward Boyd, Salyersville, KY; Eva Mae Boyd, Ilene Howell, Dorothy Jean Conn, all of Dana KY; Gloria Damron, Lee City, KY; and Virginia Sue Boyd, who preceded her in death in 1996. Mother joined the Little Salem Old Regular Baptist Church in 1960. Mom walked faithfully by Dad's side no matter where or when there was church service or funerals in the area, for church was a big part of their lives. Mother leaves to mourn 6 children, 22 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren; 4 brothers: George Kimbler, Richard Kimbler, Robie Kimbler, and Clinton Kimbler; 2 sisters, Bama Shuman and Carlie Kimbler; and her mother, Susie Kimbler. Mother will be missed by her family and friends. Our loss is Heaven's gain. So children, if you ever want to meet Mother again, turn to Jesus before it's too late.
Written by Ross Dean Boyd

BRADLEY, PHOEBE
On this 20th day of March 1991, by the help of the good Lord and our Savior Jesus Christ, I will attempt to write my own obituary. Phoebe Hyden Bradley was born November 13, 1910. On September 17,1925, I married Jake Bradley, and unto this union were born 13 children, whom we dearly loved each and every one of them. We worked so hard to raise them, thank the good Lord for giving us the strength to do so. My husband (Jake) and I were the parents of 8 sons and 5 daughters: Edgal Bradley, Jake Bradley Jr., Lorren Bradley, Farish Bradley, Frank Bradley, Jimmy Bradley, Odis Bradley Susie Ousley, Winnie Ousley, Alva Hackworth, Phyllis Bolen, Dorothy Bolen, and one son, Woodroe Bradley, deceased. One brother, Alex Hyden, and one sister are living, Sarah Stapleton. In November 1936, Jake and I joined the Spurlock Old Regular Baptist Church and we were baptized. I have tried my best to live closer to my Lord. It's so good to talk about the Lord. I believe there's only one church and that is the Church of the Living God. I believe in the old time salvation. I believe I'll have a glorified body and I won't be blind and so sick no more. When I get down to cross over the river, I feel the Lord will be there to take me home. In my closing remarks, to each of my children that don't know God, fall out with sin and meet Mommy and Daddy in Heaven someday.
Phoebe Hyden Bradley--Deceased July 12, 1998

BRANHAM, JENNIE
On March 29, 1894 a very rare rose was planted by John H. and Nora (May) Robinson. She slowly blossomed into a beautiful bride on October 30, 1912 when she married Robert Branham. As the years went by she replanted that rose 8 times. Two of those roses died early. They were Nevel and Goldie Branham. She lived to see her other 6 roses grow to become a beautiful garden. Of those 6 roses, two were sons (Andrew Branham and Dickie Branham) and four were daughters (Mercia Ray, Nellie Kiser, Mary Kiser and Charlene Bryant). To those 6 roses were born 15 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Her garden kept growing until August 24, 1976 when she lost her loving husband. On October 14, 1989 her grandson (Larry Branham) passed away. She kept her garden growing until April 9, 1993, when she lost another rose. Her son, Dickie passed away. She would not lose another rose during her lifetime. On the night of November 9, 1997, God needed a rose for Heaven and he took one of the prettiest roses on earth. She bloomed for 103 wonderful years. Nine months after her death another one of her roses went to join her. Mercia Ray passed away August 24, 1998. Granny (as she was known to everybody) loved everyone and was good to all. She loved to cook and have people from the church come and eat with her and her family. She is missed so much by her family but we know that Heaven grows the best roses.
Written by the family

BRANHAM, WILLIE B.
Died January 14, 1998. Willie (Bill) Branham was born August 4, 1907, at Yost Branch of Greasy Creek, Boone's Camp, Johnson County, Kentucky to the late John H. And Mary Alice Golden. Willie was the last of eight children. His brothers and sister were: Joe, Jessie, Frank, Johnnie, David, Garnetta and Angie. In 1927 he came to Weeksbury, Kentucky to work in the coal mines. Here he would make his home the rest of his life. On March 19, 1949 Will married Sarah Ellen Hall, and to this union three children were born: Doyle of Wellington, Kentucky, Barbara Hall of Wheelwright, Kentucky, and Delois Fields of Wellington, Kentucky. Willie was also daddy to two nieces and a nephew: Alice Mullins of Barberton, Ohio, Avonell Withrow of Clinton, Ohio, and Allen Ramsey of Akron, Ohio. Willie is survived by seven grandchildren: William, Angela, Andy, Brandi, Andrea, Alicia and Amanda. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Jacob and Kaitlyn. During the late twenties and thirties he was one of the diligent organizers of the United Mine Workers. He was a member of the Local 5899. When he retired in 1968, being one who couldn't spend idle time, he opened a small business, Bill's Pet Shop, which he ran for twelve years. Willie was a very articulate storyteller; when given the opportunity he could mesmerize a captive audience for hours. Willie joined the Old Friendship Church in 1949, where his family had belonged since its establishment. Willie was the best of husbands, fathers, grandfathers, uncles, neighbors, friends and most of all, followers of Christ.

BREWER, MILLARD
With the help of the Lord and the request of the family, I, will try to write an obituary of my dear friend and Brother in the Lord. Millard Brewer of Sookey's Creek Road, Pikeville, Ky. was bom January 11, 1914 and departed this life July 16, 1998. Brother Millard was the son of W.H. and Laura Gibson Brewer. On January 18, 1937, he was married to Clementine Meadows. To this union were born three sons: Perry D. Brewer of Columbus, Mississippi, Jack R. Brewer of Columbus, Ohio and Jerry D. Brewer of Sookey's Creek Road, Pikeville, Ky. Seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren survive him. Millard also has one brother, Billy George Brewer of South Shore, Ky. and a sister, Lola Coleman of Portsmouth, Ohio. He was preceded in death by one brother, sister and parents. In his earlier life Millard worked in the coal mines until his lungs got bad. He then became a carpenter building homes until his retirement. He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church January 27, 1952, and was baptized by Elder Grady Adkins. He was a member of the Elizabeth Old Regular Baptist Church, Fords Branch, Ky. He was a faithful member and a deacon, also a borrowed deacon helping serve the Island Creek Old Regular Baptist Church. He was very active not only in his home church but attended our sister churches. When his health began to fail, he was unable to go out to the churches. He would invite brothers and sisters into his home and have church. When they did he would really get a blessing and rejoice in the Lord. Brother Millard was blessed with a wonderful gift to sing. He loved to sing the old songs of Zion. He would sing in church and was very faithful to attend funerals and exercise his gift of singing the old-time songs. He was a great inspiration to the young brothers and old alike. Millard was sick and became homebound for several years, but he enjoyed friends coming to visit him. He loved to sing and talk about Jesus. He was well read in the Bible and had lots of wisdom. Millard finally had to go to the hospital and later the nursing home. He got so bad he said he hated to leave his family, but wanted to go home to be with Jesus. I went in his room on Sunday before he died on Thursday. When I entered the room he gave me a big smile. I sang two songs, and he raised his feeble hand toward Heaven and rejoiced. I truly believe at 6:45 Thursday evening July 16, 1998, he got to go to the place where he had sung about and worked for since 1952. Brother Millard, we miss you very much, but just sleep on and take your peaceful rest. I have a great hope I will join you soon.
Written by a brother in Christ, Elder Glenn Hall

BROWN, EARL
With a sad and broken heart I will try to write the obituary of my husband, Earl Brown. He was born on April 24, 1925 and died on February 6, 1998. He left his wife, Gracie Kiser Brown, and six children, five sons: Ralph, Ronnie, Terry, Jeffrey and Stevie, and one daughter, Sharon Dotson; ten grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, three step-great-grandchildren, one brother, Donald Brown, and six sisters: Berneice Brown, Geneva Henson, Wilma Cerello, Becky Brown, Martha Walker and Magdalene Tackett, who preceded him in death. He was the son of the late Hatler and Liddie Bentley Brown, and the son-in-law of Noah and Dona Kiser. He was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church for twenty-nine years. He loved to go church and hear old-time singing. He wanted his children and family to go to church. He was a hard working man in the coal mines for 28 years, a loving husband, devoted father, and a special papaw. We miss him so much. No one will ever take his place. We hope to meet him again someday. His memorial will be preached by the ministers of the Old Regular Baptist Church the third weekend in May, 1999.
Written by his wife and family

BRYANT, MARY BENTLEY
With much love and the help of the Lord, we will write this obituary of my dear mother. She was bom June 6, 1910, to Will Bentley and Anna Fleming Bentley. Mommy left us August 8, 1998, making her stay 88 years, 2 months, and two days. Mommy married our daddy, Mark Bryant, who preceded her in death. She had 6 children. Two preceded her in death, Jay Bryant and Carlos Bryant. She leaves to mourn their loss 2 sons, Jayson Bryant and Carlos Bryant, and two daughters, Anna Justice and Betty Rose. Mommy had three sisters to precede her in death, Essie Bentley, Liza Bell Bentley, and Pearl Hamilton. She leaves Tassie Michell and Lexie Newsome. One brother preceded her in death, Marrow Bentley. Mommy was blessed with 22 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren and 12 great-great-grandchildren. Mommy belonged to the Old Regular Baptist Church for 35 years. She was a hard working mother. She was saddened when Daddy died and her oldest son, Jay died. Momrny was very sick and took to her bed. I feel Mommy will walk the streets of gold some sweet day. Mommy was blind before she died, but I feel she will see again when our dear Lord comes for us. So, sleep on, dear Mommy, till we meet again. We love you.
Written by her broken-hearted son, Elder Jason Bryant, and family

BURKE, JAMES GROVER
James Grover Burke was born on January 11, 1917, to Hatton and Eliza (Roberts) Burke. He was the third child and the first son. His mother passed away when he was 9 years old, and his father was killed in a mining accident when he was 12 years old. During this brief time he learned values that would never leave him, and he passed them on to his children. After being in an orphanage, he was placed in a private home in Owenton, where he was provided food and shelter in exchange for his work. He graduated from high school in Owenton and moved to Long Fork. Here he worked for the 3C's, and saved money to enroll in Pikeville College, where he earned a teaching certificate. He began teaching at Marshall's Branch School on Long Fork. He later earned a Master's Degree from Morehead State University. He married Bonnie Johnson on August 26, 1939, and unto this union were born four children: Wendell Oliver, Bobby Frank, Kathy Carol, and Donna Rose McCann. In addition to his children, he leaves his wife, nine grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren to mourn his passing. He moved to Piketon, Ohio, and became a guidance counselor where he made a difference in the lives of many young people. James always looked at the positive and taught his children to do the same. He was always thankful for people who would lend a helping hand. He was a very determined and devoted man. He was devoted to his wife, his children, his job, his country, and to his life. God was important to him, and he wanted God to be important to his children. We will miss him.
Written by his family

CALHOUN, CLOVIA TUTTLE
Sister Clovia was born on February 3, 1939, in Knott County, Kentucky. She was the daughter of the late Lillie Thornsberry Tuttle and the late Henry of Kite, Kentucky. On December 23, 1961, she was united in marriage to the late Martin Calhoun. To this union six children were born: Martin Dwayne, James Gregory, Vincent Scott, Karen Sue, Stephanie, and Laurie Jean. Clovia devoted her life to her family and to the Lord. She was baptized December 24, 1984, at the Providence Baptist Church. Clovia attended church regularly, until her untimely death. Although our hearts are heavy, we know that she is in a better place. Clovia was a firm believer in the Lord. She often told us to look to the Lord for guidance.
Clovia, we love you and miss you.

CARLSON, CARL EDWIN
On January 2, 1998, Carl Edwin Carlson, died at his residence in Sunman, Indiana. Born on September 17, 1919 in Hawley, Minnesota of Swedish immigrants, he was 78 years old. Ed was retired from General Motors in Hamilton, Ohio, where he worked 27 years. During World War II, he was in the Navy, serving on the USS Haynsworth and the USS Midway ships.Survivors include his dear wife of 53 years, Violet Watts; a son, Frank Carlson, and his wife, Joy, of Connersville, Indiana; a daughter, Pat Becker, and her husband, Bob, of Cincinnati, Ohio; plus four grandchildren; Shana, Carla and Melissa Becker and Steve Carlson. In addition, he is survived by two brothers, Axel and Eldon, and two sisters, Ella Mae and Viola, all in Minnesota. He also, leaves a host of nieces and nephews, plus many friends. Preceding him in death were his parents, Alex and Ebba, as well as a brother, Harry, and a sister, Minnie, all of Minnesota. Ed devoted his life to his church and family. He joined the Old Regular Baptist 33 years ago and served as a moderator for about ten years. His happiest moments were when he was preaching or talking about the Bible. His face always lit up when his family walked into the church. Ed has left his family and friends with many great memories and stories. One story that stands out was when his ship was hit by a suicide bomber during a naval battle. The plane's initial course was toward the engine room where he worked. The plane changed its course at the last minute and hit the tail end of the ship instead. That was just one of many ways in which, he told us, the Lord had watched over him, even in his youth. Ed always told his family not to worry when he was traveling. He said his Captain would be with him. His last evening was spent going to a funeral for a brother in his church. He died, stopped in his driveway. His Captain brought him home for the last time. Dad, we will miss you. You provided a shining light for us to follow. You built your life around the church.
Written with much love by his family

CARROLL, MAMIE (HAMILTON)

Upon a Cloud

An angel sits upon a cloud
Looking down upon the earth
Watching over her children
Her heart filled with love
Her eyes filled with tears of joy
Her halo glowing so very bright
The feeling she has watching her five children grow
It's just so heart warming
While sitting upon that cloud so very happy
This angel Mamie is looking down on earth

Written with her daughters' love, Rhonda, Mary Belle, and Little Mamie Carroll

With much sadness and with a broken heart I will try to write an obituary of my beloved wife, and mother of our children. Mamie was the daughter of Clifford and Minnie Belle (Bartly) Hamilton. She was born March 15, 1957 in Pike County, Kentucky. She left us on February 12, 1998, making her stay here on earth 40 years 11 months and 12 days. She leaves to mourn 5 children: Redgia McMillan, Minnie (McMillan) Fields, Rhonda Carroll, Mary Belle and Little Mamie. She also leaves one stepson, Ronnie Jr., and 3 grandchildren: Jasmin Brooke Macmillan, Jordan and Jody Carroll, whom she loved very, very much. Mamie also leaves to mourn two brothers, Marvin and Danny, one sister, Janice Sue, and a host of nieces and nephews and friends who miss and love her very, very much, and I know they do because I do. For some reason God needed to call my angel home before me. Oh! How I miss you. Honey, no one knows how I miss you. It hurts me so much to think how our beautiful children long for their mother. When I take them into my arms I know in my heart that they need you to comfort them and all I can say is that Momrny is home with Jesus now and she is up there watching over us. When I hold our girls in my arms I know that I am holding part of you, and they are all I have in this world now. They are my life, and I hope to be able to love them and take care of them until the end as you would. Mamie was a wonderful wife and mother and friend. She was always there to help in any way she could. If you ever needed anything and she knew about it she would always try her best to help in anyway she could. So sleep on, my angel, until we meet again.
Written by her broken-hearted husband, Ronnie, with the help of my sister, Brenda Slone

CONN, BERTHA AND WILLIE
 I will attempt to write a short obituary of dear Sister Bertha Conn, the wife of Willie J. Conn. She was born September 17, 1918, and passed away November 11, 1997, making her stay here 79 years, 1 month and 24 days. She passed away at the Pikeville Methodist Hospital where she stayed so much of the last years of her life. She was the daughter of the late Benny and Rosie Jarrell Boyd, and was born and raised on Prater Creek, Kentucky. Early in her life she met Willie J. Conn and they were married August 23, 1933, by Preacher Sam Rice at the homeplace at Dana. To this union 6 children were born, 5 sons and 1 daughter. They are as follows: Donald Ray Conn, Ivel, Ky., Ranal Conn, Honaker, Ky., Wilford Eddie Conn, Stanville, Ky., Ronnie Conn, Dana, Ky., and one daughter, Betty Rose Newsome of Vermilion, Ohio, all living. One son, Cline Conn, died August 17, 1956. She leaves 15 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grand children, one brother, Arley Boyd of Dana, Ky., and a host of friends to mourn her passing. She professed a hope in Christ, and on the third Sunday in August, 1950, was baptized by Elder Johnnie Hall. She took her membership to the Little Salem Church and was a faithful member coming to church when she was able. She will be greatly missed by the church and all who knew her. Brother Willie, Sister Minnie and I were with her just minutes before her call came. I held prayer for her at her request and she said, "I love everyone and I'm not afraid to die." God soon called her home. There are no words that can ease the pain the children feel - nor the loss that Willie now feels after so many years with this gentle wife and mother. The warm memories that you each have of her and that she truly loved you and her family can never be taken away from you. Although she suffered greatly as she walked through this life, she did so with patience and a tolerance of things we can only imagine. She should be an example to each one of us that although we suffer many things in life, God knows our hearts and will help us to bear life's burdens. Philippians 4:6-7 says "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and rninds through Christ Jesus." Written by Elder Walter L. Akers, her friend and brother in Christ

Conn, Willie James-Once again great sadness has come to our family. Another obituary must be written, this time for a special man, my father-in- law, Willie James Conn. He passed away about 7:30 p.m. on October 22, 1998, at Pikeville Methodist Hospital's Intensive Care Unit. This was less than one year after his wife, Bertha, left us on November 11, 1997. Willie was born May 27, 1915, at Dana, Ky., making his stay on earth 83 years, 4 months, and 25 days. He was the son of Hie Conn and Virgie Howell Conn. He married Bertha Boyd, daughter of Beanie and Rosie Boyd, on August 23, 1933. Unto this union were born 5 sons and one daughter, to wit: Donald Ray, Ivel, Ky.; Ranal, Honaker, Ky.; Wilford Eddie, Stanville, Ky.; Ronnie, Dana, Ky.; and Betty Rose Newsome, Vermilion, Ohio. One son, Cline, preceded his parents in death on August 17, 1956. Willie leaves 15 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren (three of these were born after Bertha died). He also leaves 2 brothers and 5 sisters: Ed Conn, Dana, Ky.; Banner Conn, Vermilion, Ohio; Norma Hall, Banner, Ky.; Nicie Boyd, Dana, Ky.; Allie Akers, Dana, Ky.; Helene Cuenin, Norwalk, Ohio; and Frankie Conn, Prestonsburg, Ky.; and a host of friends to mourn his passing. Willie was employed by the Kentucky West Virginia Gas Company for approximately 40 years and retired in 1980. Many of his coworkers have already passed on, leaving others to mourn his death. Willie was a member of the Little Salem Church, which he joined in July, 1950. He was one of the first 3 deacons for this church, along with Will (W.L.) Akers and Allen Akers. He was a faithful member who loved to attend church whenever he was able. His presence will be sorely missed by his brethren and sisters in the church, but no one will miss him more than the children he's left behind to mourn his passing. Again we find that there are no words to ease the personal pain of losing this father and friend. Willie mourned the loss of his wife, Bertha, and after having spent 64 years together before she died, a day never passed, nor an hour ever went by, that he didn't think of her and have the desire to see her again. Now that desire has been fulfilled and we can draw some comfort from the fact that his suffering here is now over, no more struggling to breath, medical problems, or bills, because they're now together in paradise. Children, grandchildren, brothers, and sisters, be good to one another as God has instructed us to do. I know Willie prayed many prayers for each of you, because be loved you. Remember that with the loss of each loved one the importance of family becomes more meaningful. May the time we all have left here on earth bring peace, joy, togetherness, and forgiveness for each of us until the day we join our mother and father, brother and sister, and our best friends, Willie and Bertha, in paradise.
Written by Marie Conn, daughter-in-law

CONN, LORA BOYD
Lora Boyd Conn was born the daughter of the late Willie Boyd and Dorcie Jarrell Boyd, November 25, 1916. I married Fred Conn of Dana, KY, May 14, 1934. We were blessed with three children, Peggy Ann Conn Neal, Geraldine Conn Jarrell, and William Green Conn. I have been in good health until the last three years. I attended church all of my life, but in 1950 the twenty-second day of July, I prayed and begged the good Lord to have mercy on me. The Lord forgave me of my sins and I became a Christian. I was baptized by Brother Johnny Hall and Brother Sam Thomas and took membership at the Little Salem Church in Dana, KY.I have eight grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren. Early in our marriage, we moved to Michigan where I worked at Firestone Rubber in Wyandotte for three years. When we returned to Kentucky, I operated a grocery store for 32 years while taking care of my home and helping Fred with the farming. Children, I want you all to be good to Daddy, for I loved him so much.I would like the Old Regular Baptist to take care of my funeral and have the home preachers speak along with anyone else that Daddy wants, if I should go first. The above was written by Sister Lora herself, I will add some to it. She belonged to the church 48 years, she sure loved the people who loved the Lord without any exception. We will all miss her, also the neighbors will too. To the family I believe Sister Lora just went to sleep in Jesus and He will wake her up on the resurrection morning with a glorified body to live in Heaven forever. Sister Lora is described in Proverbs 31 verses 10, 11, 12, and 13 as a virtuous woman for her price was far above rubies to her husband and family, so she was.
Elder Walter Akers

CONN, OKIE
It is with sadness that I attempt to write an obituary of my dear brother, Okie Conn of Dana, KY. Okie was born October 29, 1906 at Dana to the late Frank and Katheryn Rice Conn. Okie was blessed not to be housed up sick very long. His life here on earth was 90 years, 11 months and 16 days. He was a joyful person and kind to everyone. He was united in marriage to Jona Boyd, the daughter of the late Noah and Sirrilda Smith Boyd of Dana, on November 27,1927. To this union were born four sons, to wit: Dallas D., Gillis, Denver, and Herman, and one daughter, Ruth Conn Slone, of Dana KY. Three sons preceded him in death: Dallas D., Gillis, and Denver. His beloved companion Jona departed this life September 16, 1968, leaving Brother Okie sad and lonely. Afterward, he made his home with his daughter Ruth and her husband Ralph. Ruth cherished him as a baby and she and her two dear daughters, Lisa and Renee, answered his every call, being comforted and helped by her dear neighbors. Brother Okie joined the Old Regular Baptist Church and was baptized the second weekend in August 1959, taking his fellowship at the New Salem Church. He later brought his letter for membership to the Little Salem Church. He had a good gift to sing and one of his favorite songs, if not the most, was "Jesus, Thou art the sinner's friend." He and I used to go places to church in Virginia. He went on several trips to church in Indiana with Brother Dennis and I, and everywhere we went, he was known. He was a strong believer in the sovereignty of God saved by grace and grace alone. In life, Okie worked in and around the mines in his younger days. His last work was for the gas company, walking gas lines over the hills and valleys. Brother Okie leaves to mourn his passing his son, Herman, and his wife, Thelma, his daughter, Ruth, and her husband, Ralph Slone, 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 1 step-grandchild, 5 step-great-grandchildren and many, many, cousins, friends and neighbors who will miss him very much. The Little Salem Church will miss him sitting in his certain spot on the front seat, starting and lining his song. But most of all, Ruth and her family's hearts will be saddest, him being with them all the time. To Herman, Ruth, and their families: be good to each other, cherish one another, and remember Daddy's advice, follow after his steps. He is now resting in peace; just waiting, as your mommy and all who hath died in the Lord for that great resurrection morning. For as the scripture says, "blessed are they that die in the Lord from henceforth, for they do rest from their labor and their works do follow them." So farewell for a season, dear brother in Christ. I too, like the rest, will miss you very much.
Written by the request of his daughter, Ruth by his brother in hope, Clarence E. Kidd

COOK, EDITH SLONE
Edith Slone Cook was born in Pippa Passes, Kentucky on November 29, 1915, the daughter of Frank Morrell Slone and Nancy Jane Slone. She died in Norton, VA (St. Mary's Hospital) on June 23, 1998. She leaves behind a husband of 65 years (married December 16, 1932), Arthur Cook of Seco, KY.; five children: Mrs. Lillus C. Campbell of Cincinnati, Ohio; Mrs. Jeanetta C. McClellan of Marietta, GA; Mrs. Lola C. Beck of Lawrenceville, GA; Mr. Emil A. Cook of Pottersfork, KY; and Pamela Michele Cook of Seco, KY, 11 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, as well as many relatives and friends. There are simply no words that we can think of to express our sorrow at Mommy's passing. Words would hardly brush the surface of our loss; she was the heart and center of her family, and time will not heal, nor will it fill, this void. We will miss her love, companionship, and counsel more and more with each passing hour; remembering the happy days spent enjoying her quick wit and the humor so associated with the Slone family - of which she was so proud! Even through her illnesses and suffering she had always a sweet smile and a ready "thank you" for all those around her. (She was unable to speak for the last several months of her life, but it seemed nothing could dampen that beautiful smile ... !) Her innocent, unquestioning, and complete faith in God, and the Old Regular Baptists, has led her husband and children to follow her teaching, and seek the Lord, with the good, good hope of meeting her again, in Heaven. You taught us about eternity, and that is exactly how long we will love you!
Pam, and a loving family

CORRELL, IDA TACKETT
In honor of our dear mother, the late Ida Correll of Jenkins, Kentucky, who passed from this life at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, May 31, 1998. She had resided with her oldest daughter Irene Brumback in Frankfort, Ky. Ida was the daughter of the late Sol and Elizabeth Newsom Tackett, born June 30, 1908 at Beefhide in Pike County, Ky. Ida had 4 brothers and 1 sister. Hibert, Feddie and Amos preceded her in death. Surviving her is one sister, Goldie Mullins, and one brother, Ervin Tackett. Ida was the widow of the late Roy Correll of Pottersfork, Jenkins, Ky. They were married in 1929 and together they had one son, Carl, who died at birth, and four daughters: Noma Irene, Nora Chris, Ora Faye and Anita Mae, all living. For many years the family lived at Puncheon Creek in Knott County and later moved to Pottersfork in Letcher, County. Roy and Ida had 9 grandchildren 5 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandson. During Mom's life she was always a caring and loving mother, never complaining. Her life was dedicated to her family's welfare. She was a member of the Joppa Church at Melvin, Ky. At the end of her life here on earth she told us she was going home to be with Jesus in her Heavenly Home. She asked us children to stay true to our Lord that we may follow. We, the daughters, would like to thank our friends and relatives for the many acts of kindness that were shown at this time of sorrow in our hearts. A special thanks to brother Ellis Holbrook and other brethren that offered words of kindness and inspiration during the funeral. We don't want to fail to mention the ladies at the Rebecca Church for the sandwiches and coffee provided at the church during the evening hours. We shall never forget Ronnie and Bonnie Tackett of Melvin who volunteered to sit up at the Church. Their love and support for this family was greatly appreciated. God love you all. With humble hearts we pray that her loving spirit will remain with us guiding us through life keeping the memory of her gentle smile, feeling her love warm in our hearts.
Written by her daughters with everlasting love

DAMRON, MARTHA
It is with much love that I write the "birth" announcement of God's newest angel, my grandmother, Martha Ellen (Anderson) Damron. Martha was born March 8, 1912, to Joseph and Amanda (Bryant) Anderson at Hartley, KY. On April 30,1928, she married Cordell Damron, son of John L. and Janey (Blair) Damron. To this union were born two children, Billie Jane (Damron) of Little Creek and John George Damron of Willow Park, TX. She was preceded in death by her husband and by 18 brothers and sisters. Grandma was baptized on the fourth Saturday of January, 1948, at the Little Creek Regular Baptist Church by Elders Frank Hopkins and Bertram Damron. She remained a faithful member of that church until her death on December 6, 1997. She is survived by her children, 7 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren and 4 step-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by one sister, Maggie of Shelby Gap, and one brother, Robert (Bob) Anderson of Little Creek. Grandma's family was the second most important thing in her life, the first being her love of God. Although part of our family is of a different belief than the Regular Baptist Church, Grandma never looked at the name over the church doors, she only praised God that we would all meet again in Heaven on that wonderful judgment day. Grandma loved to travel, whether by plane or by car. I remember her always bringing us kids a pair of "captain's wings" from the airlines whenever she would fly. So I believe it is only fitting that her last trip was one where she herself donned the "Captain's wings" and flew to the home waiting for her on the other side. We love you, Grandma, and praise the faith you left us for memories.
Written by her granddaughter, Jennifer Hopkins

DAMRON, NETTIE (HOPKINS)
Mommy, as I write your obituary, I'm so lost and lonely, for you were my life and sunshine the last ten months of your life. I miss you so much, but I know God wanted our rose to bloom in His garden, and your bloom and love will never fade up there. Mommy died on August 1, 1998 at her residence at Little Creek, Ky. Mom was born August 8, 1917, to the parents of William (Jay) and Naomi (Bird)Swiney Hopkins at Little Creek, Ky. Mom was preceded in death by both parents; four sisters: Fan Compton, Mae Davis, Ida Ramey, and Bertha Smith; two brothers, Miles Hopkins and Ellis Hopkins. She is survived by one sister, Anna Justice of Little Creek, and one brother, Britt Hopkins of Front Royal, Va. Mom met and married Vernon Damron on April 4, 1944, in Pikeville, Ky. They had two daughters, Birdie Ann Johnson and Betty Joe Migneron, both of Little Creek, Ky. She leaves three grandsons: Jeffery Adkins, Vernon Migneron, Larry Migneron; one granddaughter Gabriella (Migneron) Adkins. Mommy had three great-granddaughters and six great-grandsons. Mom's grandchildren and great- grandchildren were her life. When they called her "Nanny" she would light up like the morning sunshine. Mom joined Little Creek Old Regular Baptist Church January 22, 1955, and was buried in the liquid grave January 23, 1955, and was a faithful member. She attended church as long as she was able to go. Mommy, we talked so much about our Lord, and I know you are sleeping in His arms, awaiting for His return to bring His children home. Mommy, you are resting on the hill side beside Pa. Jay and Ma Bird, where you wanted to be. I pray that all your family you have left down here will turn their lives over to the Lord and will meet you and Daddy on the other side of the Jordan River so our circle will not be broken anymore.
Written by your daughter and granddaughter, Betty Migneron and Gabriella Adkins

DAMRON, VERNON
It is with a very sad and lonely heart that I sit and write your obituary. Daddy died at the Central Baptist Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky on December 21, 1985. Daddy, it is a joy to sit and share our fond memories of you with your nine great grandchildren that you never knew while you were here below, but we feel your warmth and love from above as you watch our precious children grow up. Daddy was born April 4, 1924, in Oak Hill, Ohio. He was the son of Harvey Damron and Louanna Prater Damron, who both preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by one sister, Estell (Damron) Bartley, and one infant brother, Ottis Damron, and later a brother, Ghomer Damron. He is survived by two sisters, Eunice Ramsey of Greasy Creek, Ky. and Garnett Sanders of Nevada; Five brothers: Ted Damron of Greasy Creek, Ky. Glenn Damron of Grove City, Ohio, Jeroid Damron of Taylor, Mich., Ray Darnron of Wall Lake, Mich. and Elmer Damron of California. Daddy met and married Nettie Hopkins on April 4, 1944, in Pikeville, Ky. They had two daughters, Birdie Ann (Damron) Johnson and Betty Joe (Damron) Migneron both of Pikeville, Ky. The happiest time of my Daddy's life was when he had grandchildren. He left three grandsons: Jeffery Adkins, Vernon Migneron (Daddy's namesake), Larry Migneron, and one granddaughter, Gabrielia Eden Migneron, who was the apple of his eye and whom he called Papa's Little Angel. Daddy worked thirty-one years in those deep dark coal mines to feed and clothe his wife and children. He died shortly after receiving his retirement and disability. Daddy, I am so proud to be your daughter, for when someone asks who my father was and I say, "Vernon Damron," they say, "He was a very good man." Daddy, I know you are our Guardian Angel who watches over us, and now that Mommy has joined you, we now have two very special angels to guide our footsteps. I praise God that we can all meet you and Mommy when Gabriel's trumpet sounds.
Written by your daughter and granddaughter, Betty Migneron and Gabriella Adkins

DANIELS, DENVER
Elder Denver Daniels was born July 30, 1914, in Johnson County, Kentucky. He departed this life on March 31, 1998, at the Riverside Hospital Kobacher House in Columbus, Ohio. Denver was a life-long resident of Johnson and Floyd Counties. Elder Daniels was a member of the Spurlock Old Regular Baptist Church. He was a faithful church member for many years. He was a retired coal miner.Elder Denver was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sister Roberta Daniels and son, Billy Gene Daniels. He will be sadly missed by his brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and everyone who knew him. The Spurlock Church knows they have lost a faithful and precious member.
Written by the family

DAY, LAWRENCE
As a tribute to the late Lawrence Day, I consider it an honor to write an obituary about a wonderful man who was also my father. Lawrence Day was born in Whitesburg, Kentucky on September 14, 1909, the son of Zack and Pollyann (Hogg) Day. Lawrence was taken from our midst to receive his reward on December 30,1997 after God had blessed him to live for 88 years, 3 months, and 16 days.On May 25, 1930 he was united in holy matrimony with Vera Calihan of Roxanna, Kentucky. Together they shared over 67 years of life's joys and sorrows. Through their years of marriage Lawrence and Vera were blessed with four sons: Hayward, Don, and Edward Day of Okeana, Ohio, and Leon Day of Mt. Carmel, Indiana. Lawrence and Vera were also blessed with three daughters, Barbara Gindling of Brookville, Indiana, Linda York of Okeana, Ohio and Iva Jean who was untimely taken from our presence. Lawrence was survived by two brothers, Kelly Day of Brookville, Indiana, Harvey Day of Harrison, Ohio and two sisters, Eva Gilbert of Lawrenceburg, Indiana and Ethel Crase of Charlestown, Indiana. Lawrence was also blessed with 14 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Iva Jean; grandson, Billy Scott York, and four sisters Luana Crase, Sally Shephard, Mary Hodge, and Martha Stamper. Dad joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on August 9, 1949 and spread God's messaGe throughout the area as long as he was able. Dad was overjoyed on Sundays when he was going to church, he would be singing, and be so joyous, and when you were around him he made you feel the same way. Through his entire life Dad worked hard and did not ask for many things. He was just like the song, I always enjoyed hearing him sing, "Just One Rose Will Do."
Written by his son, Hayward Day

DESKINS, JEAN HOWELL    1938-1998
With sad and heavy hearts, we write the obituary of our dear sister, Jean Howell Deskins. Jean was the daughter of the late Green and Nannie Hamilton Howell, born March 20, 1938. Jean was preceded in death by two brothers, Levi Howell of Rising Sun, Md., and Newberry Howell of Pikeville, Ky.; and by two sisters, Betty Howell and Camella Adams, both of Pikeville, Ky. Surviving sisters are Rosanna Hamilton and Alice Miller of Pikeville, Ky., and one brother, Will Palmer Howell of Conowingo, Md. On March 29, 1957, Jean was married to Lowell Thomas Deskins, of Garden Village, Ky., and they shared 41 wonderful years together. They were blessed with two children; Steven Eric Deskins and Wilma Lois Deskins Cleveland, both of Columbus, Ohio. Four, beautiful grandchildren brightened their lives: Chris, Cathy and Kevin Deskins, and Jarrad Thomas Walker. Steve's wife Susie loved Jean very much and Jean loved her. Jean loved her family dearly, especially her husband, Tom. We are grateful to Tom for the loving and tender care he bestowed upon her in their years together. We know that her family are heartbroken and miss her daily. Jean has numerous nieces and nephews, who also loved her and miss her laughter and grace. Jean was a nurse and has worked in several different areas; at Pikeville Methodist, University Hospital in Columbus, as an office nurse, and at a nursing home. No matter what capacity she worked in, she always cared for people with dignity and compassion, and inspired others to do the same. Jean exemplified what a nurse should be and inspired her niece, Willena, to become a nurse also. She worked hard all her life, but, we know that she enjoyed helping and caring for others. Jean tried to attend all her class reunions and loved to come home to Pikeville to visit with her family and friends. She loved tracing ancestors and worked on her computer and compiled an extensive family tree for all of us to keep.Jean was baptized at an early age and joined the First Church of God. She always told us that she had a better place to go to when she left here. Our cousin, Paris Tackett, said she told him that there wasn't anything in her way. We hope to join her in Heaven someday. Jean was laid to rest in the Asbury Cemetery in Columbus, Ohio. We wake up at night, crying sometimes, because we miss our dear sister so much, and we know that all of her family feels the same. We love you Jean; you will always be alive in the hearts of your family.
Written by her sisters, Rosanna Hamilton and Alice Miller

ELKING, CINNAMON
Cinnamon "Cinnamy" Elkng, 2 years, 11 months, 28 days, of 154 South Broadway, Midland, passed away on November 7, 1997, at Children's Hospital, Cincinnati. Cinnamon is survived by her mother, Tracy Elking, also of Midland; her matemal grandparents, Charles and Lillian Elkng of Midland; her great-grandparents, Jacob and Julia Akers of Lynchburg; and three uncles and six aunts. Although almost 3 years of age, Cinnamon touched many lives. Her great energy, affection, and character made everyone's heart fill with joy and laughter. Our little baby angel will be greatly missed and thought of every day as we (the Elkng family and friends) go through our lives. Our dear Lord could not have given us a more perfect and precious gift as He did on November 10, 1994. We thank Him for the chance, the opportunity that we all had to share in her wonderful life with her. Funeral arrangements were cared for by Hannah Tufts Schildmeyer Funeral Home, 120 West Main Street, Blanchester. Friends were received 6 to 9 P.M., Wednesday, November, 12, 1997. Services at were at 11 a.m Thursday at the Little Bethel Church. Memorials may be donated to the Cincinnati Children's Hospital in Cincinnati, or to the Ronald McDonald House.

ELLIOTT, WILBURN
Wilburn Elliott was born May 29, 1910, and passed away December 29, 1996. He was the son of Shird and Minnie Osborne Elliott. Wilburn met and married Rebecca Hobson on November 23, 1933. To this union were born 13 children. Wilburn was preceded in death by one son, Wilburn Elliott, Jr. Left to mourn his passing is his loving wife Rebecca, and 7 daughters: Ruby Howell, Wanda Sue Thornsberry, Rosemary Fulton, Doris Stover, Brenda Goble, Janice Hopkins, Joy Hall; 6 sons, Teddy Elliott, Cloyd Elliott, Eugene Elliott, George Elliott, Bennie Elliott; 3 sisters, Tamara Hill, Dorcie Christian, Ethel Mae Elliott; 2 brothers, Clines Elliott, Shird Elliott, Jr.; 58 grandchildren and 69 great-grandchildren. Wilburn was a member of UMWA Local 5967 and was a Kentucky Colonel. Wilburn never joined the church, but left a beautiful experience that God had saved his soul. All of his family, friends and neighbors knew there was never so kind a man as Wilburn. He never had anything but good to say to anyone. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Although he was very sick the last 2 months of his life, he had a very loving wife and family to care for him. I know Sister Becky was a faithful and loving wife as long as he lived. So may God bless her to stay here with us at Little Rosa Church for many, many years to come. Wilburn lived to see 3 daughters profess a hope in the Lord. So to the others, may God shower His blessings on you, and He surely will if you come to him by faith believing. Daddy, we know you fought a hard fight and didn't want to leave us anymore than we wanted to let you go. Daddy, your light will shine forever in our hearts. So, rest on Brother Wilburn, and we will meet you when God sounds the trumpet. Then we will go Home together.
Sadly missed by family and friends

FITZGERALD, MYRON THOMAS
By request and with the help of our good Lord above, I will try to write this obituary, a tribute to the most wonderful father-in-law any girl could ever have. My mind quickly fills with love, joy, and many wonderful memories. I know each one of his family and friends could write a book on all our wonderful memories of Dad. Dad was born Myron Thomas Fitzgerald June 8, 1903, on a farm near the town of Big Plane, Ohio. His life took many turns, but as the story goes he met the apple of his eye, Ethel Newsome. She was visiting her sister, Myrtle Cox, across the street from his ancestral home. What a happy day that was for him. It started his life along a happy journey. Out of that happiness and love a daughter, Carolyn Sue Jones, and a son, Edward Lee Fitzgerald, were born. He was a hard-working husband and father, always giving of himself and taking things in stride. His family could always lean on him for his strength and was always there for them. His greatest reward was to head for the nearest creek bank, then throw his hook into the water and wait for the big one to hit his line. Mother and Dad moved to Melbourne, Florida in 1968, which was his happy day, to be near his son and grandchildren. He helped his son establish his furniture business with many long hours and much encouragement. Brother Myron, you will surely be missed. He leaves behind to mourn him in his passing his beloved wife of 65 years, daughter, son, 6 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. We will all miss you, Brother Myron. We know you have a better home awaiting. We all plan to be with you someday. Brother Myron was baptized July 21, 1985 by Elder William Cox and was given full membership with the Myrtle Church on August 3, 1985. I know he will be missed by all the members and friends of the Myrtle Church. Dad left us April 4, 1998 at 7:27 a.m., at the age of 94, in a deep and peaceful sleep.
Written by his daughter-in-law, Sister Jean Fitzgerald

FLANNERY, EUGENE
It is with much sadness, but very precious memories, that we shall try to write an obituary of our beloved husband and father, Eugene Flannery. Eugene was born on January 30, 1930 in Pike County. He was the son of Alvin and Liza Bryant Flannery. He was united in marriage to Dona Hall Flannery on July 26, 1947. They were devoted companions for 50 years. To this union were born three sons: Jimmy Flannery and Jerry Flannery of Harold, and Udale Flannery of Beaver; three daughters: Linda Nunemaker and Betty Compton of Allen and Sandy Tackett of Beaver. He had eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He had one sister, Linda Gail Tackett of Beaver. Eugene departed us on November 23, 1997. He was a retired coal miner and a member of the U.M.W.A. Local No. 5899 at Wheelwright. Eugene was a good father and grandfather. He had a very special place in all of our hearts. Eugene attended a church regularly at Samaris Church for 16 or 17 years. He never missed church unless he or his family were sick. Although Eugene was never baptized, he often spoke to us about being saved and wanting to go to Heaven during his sickness. Eugene was known in the neighborhood as a good and honest man. Everyone always had something good to say about him, and what a good person he was. Eugene loved his children and grandchildren so much. He loved Sundays when his grandchildren always visited. We miss his soft voice, gentle hand touch and those precious times we all spent and shared with him. He was an inspiration to us all. He lived such a short time after the onset of his cancer. Eugene's suffering is over. We have cried many times, and we miss him so badly. Eugene would still be here with us if our love could have kept him here. We believe Eugene is now in a place where there is no suffering and he lies in a place full of peace. We feel he is in Heaven, and we will always have him in our hearts. Sleep on, we love you.
Written by Dona and family

FRAZIER, RUSSELL
With much love and respect, it honors me to write a testimony of a man's life that exceeded more than eighty years. Russell Frazier extended a friendly handshake and a loving smile to all he met. He was not only a hard worker for his family, but for his Lord's family. Russell Frazier, 84, of Banner, died Thursday, July 16, 1998, at his residence, following an extended illness. Born April 3, 1914 at Cliff, he was the son of the late Benjamin Harrison Frazier and Josephine Gray Frazier. He spent forty years working in the coal mines of eastern Kentucky and twenty years working for the Floyd Co. Board of Education before retiring. He served as a deacon in the Little Salem Old Regular Baptist Church for his community. His retirement gave him a chance to fulfill a life's dream. He spent his remaining years as a farmer. All who were blessed to know him will miss his role as husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He has left a legacy of love and friendship that they will truly miss. His greatest contribution is the person he showed us that we all could become. Survivors include his wife, Mary Susan Hall Frazier; two sons, Russell Mont Frazier of Betsy Layne and Earsel Lee Frazier of Dwale; one daughter, Sally Flannery of Raceland; one brother, Jack Frazier of Hager Hill; two sisters, Nancy Louder of Winchester and Emogene Tackett of Cape Coral, Florida; seven grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Saturday, July 18, at 1:00 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home Chapel, with ministers of the Old Regular Baptist Church officiating. Burial was in the Jones Family Cemetery at Men, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Serving, as pallbearers were Robert R. Flannery II, Christopher Flannery, John D. Flannery, David L. Frazier, Jeremy Debusa, Monty S. Frazier, and Barry D. Frazier.
Your loving grandson, Monty

GIBSON, BELL JONES
Bell Jones Gibson was born October 21, 1906, the daughter of Ollie Slone Jones and Dial Jones. In early years, she married Odus Gibson. Unto this union were born 7 children. Three preceded her in death: Lillian Gibson, Dewey Junior Gibson and Edison Gibson. Children still living are: Berman Gibson of Bedford, Kentucky; Margie Collins of Wayland, Kentucky; Warren Gibson of Louisville, Kentucky and Denzil Gibson of Sturgis, Michigan. She had 26 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Mamo joined the Old Regular Baptist Church March 15, 1981, being baptized by Burton Ratliff and Arnold McKnight. Mamo lived her last years with her son, Berman Gibson, and Nella Gibson in Bedford, Kentucky. Daddy and Nella will miss her greatly, as well as all of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren and all of her family and friends who knew her. Mamo was so much more than a grandmother to me and my brother, Bobby. She was the only mother that we have ever known. She raised me and Bobby after our mother died at the age of 24 years. We loved her and will miss her. Mamo was sick for such a long time, but now she won't be sick any more, because we all feel she is happy with our Lord. Mamo was so happy this summer when Brother Burton and Helen came to see her. She missed being able to go to church, but was so thankful that Burton, Helen and her family were able to come so far to see her, and enjoy a day of fellowship and praising the Lord with her. Mamo will be missed by all that knew her, but we know she is happier today being with her Lord. Written by her granddaughter, Patty James

GIBSON, DELANO R.
Delano and I grew up together. We did many special things that only the two of us knew about. So, it is with many loving memories and much sadness that I will try to write an obituary of my beloved brother, Delano R. Gibson. Delano was born February 16, 1931, at Raven, Kentucky. He was the son of the late Dewey Gibson and Pearlie Patton Gibson. He departed this life June 20, 1998, making his stay on earth 67 years, 4 months and 3 days. On February 20, 1993, Delano was married to Gertrude Sturgill. There were no children born to this union. Delano and Gertrude each had children by former marriages. Delano leaves to mourn his passing his wife, three daughters, two stepsons, two stepdaughters, two brothers, five sisters, five grandchildren, one great-grandchild seven step-great-grandchildren, and many relatives and friends. Dale was a kind and gentle man. He was a veteran of the Korean War. He served his country with honor and pride. We all have fond memories of Delano, he was such a fun person to be around. He loved people, and they loved him in return. The last years of Dale's life were spent going to church, and he dearly loved to talk about his Lord and Savior. I believe that my wonderful brother is an angel in Heaven. Written by his sister, Bonnie Harris

HALE, AVANELLE
With much sadness and loving memories, I will try to write the obituary of my loving wife of fifty-seven years. Avanelle was born July 4, 1922, and departed this life on April 8, 1998, at Our Lady of the Way Hospital of a fatal heart attack, making her stay on this earth seventy-five years and nine months. She was the daughter of the late Henry and Rebecca Johnson Ratliff. She was married to Clyde Hale on August 8, 1940. To this union three sons were born. One son, Hershel Ray Hale, preceded her in death in 1982, at the age of thirty-five years. She leaves to mourn, her husband, Clyde, and two sons, Roy Glennis Hale and Clarence Edward Hale, all of Martin, Ky. She had eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren and one sister, Roxie Justice, of Danner, Ky. She joined the Cold Springs Regular Baptist Church the third Saturday in May, 1975. She was baptized by Elder Bill Justice and Elder Holbert Holbrook, and was a faithful member until God called her home. She often talked to me about her mother, who died when Nell was only a baby and she couldn't remember her. She would say to me someday she would be with her mother and son Hershel in Heaven, where they would never part again. I want to say to our children and grandchildren, if you want to see Mom again you must repent and be born again through and by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ as she did. Nell, you are missed so much by those who knew and loved you, but we feet our loss is Heaven's gain.
Written by her husband, Clyde Hale, and daughter-in-law, Thelma

HALL, ADA DAWSON
Ada Dawson Hall, age 86, of Hueysville, Ky., widow of Ottis Hall, passed away Monday, August 3, 1998, at Our Lady of the Way Hospital, Martin, Ky. She was the daughter of the late Efrom and Margaret Spears Dawson. She was born March 18, 1912, in Johnson County, Ky. Sister Hall was a homemaker and a member of the New Salem Church at Harold, Kentucky for 53 years.Sister Ada was never blessed to bear children. She and her husband, Ottis, moved to a farm in Ohio and after he died she lived there for many years. She loved her little home on the farm. For some unknown reason this home burned, which left her homeless. Sister Ada was blessed with a wonderful nephew, Chester Mullins, who was good to bring her to the New Salem Church, a place where she dearly loved to be. This was especially so at communion meeting time. Sister Ada was a very kind person and loved everyone she knew. She had a good word and wore a lovely smile for all that she came in contact with. Her last few months on earth were lived with a wonderful niece, Margaret Handshoe, at Hueysville, Ky. Margaret loved her Aunt Ada, and gave her the best of care. Then, finally, she became very sick and had to be placed in the hospital for a few days. One day she looked up at Margaret and said, "I want to thank you for all you have done for me." Shortly afterward she was called to her eternal home. I surely was blessed having Sister Ada as a friend, a sister in Christ, and a relative by marriage. I loved her visits to my home when it was possible for her to do so. So, dear Ada, you're sleeping by your husband on a lonely little cemetery. You don't hear the birds singing or see the lovely flowers blooming, and neither do you feel a gentle breeze as it sweeps across your face, but better things await you, farther on, that will pay you for all the hardships that you suffered during your natural life. When you awake all will be everlasting peace and joy in heaven with Jesus, the One you loved so much, and sang praises to His holy name.
Written by a sister in hope, Anna Sue Layne Clarke

HALL, EFFERT
Effert Hall was born on June 25, 1914 to Lee Hall, Jr. and Minnie Belle Little Hall in Wheelwright, Ky. He also had a second mother, Cora Hall, who came to love him as much as he did her. On July 17, 1936, he pledged his faith to a beautiful golden haired woman named Della Sanders, who would become his best friend. Unto this union 3 precious children were born. This marriage, blessed by God, would last some 61 years until God called him home on October 23, 1997. Survivors left to mourn his passing are his wife, Della; a daughter, Linda Hall Couch of Bypro, Ky.; 2 sons, Bill L. Hall and his wife Sissy of Bypro, Ky., and Lonnie E. Hall and his wife, Sheila, of Raccoon, Ky. His son-in-law Hiram "Buddy" Couch will be the first to greet him in Heaven. He leaves a brother, Everett E. Hall of Wheelwright, Ky.; 3 sisters: Dorthula Childress of Hillsboro, Ky., Callie Sword of Virgie, Ky., and Versie Robinson of Kingsport Tenn. Papaw leaves behind 8 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and many other relatives and friends who loved him dearly. Papaw became a merchant and made many friends as he delivered groceries to people's homes. Years later he would carry their children and grandchildren to and from school on that big yellow bus. We used to tease him about being able to parallel park that bus, yet he could not drive a car. He then worked for the Maintenance Department with the Floyd Co. Board of Education and it was there that he would retire. It was during his last two jobs that he got stuck with the nickname "Papaw." Suddenly, because of the kind, gentle, loving person that he was, everybody wanted him to be their Papaw - and he was. He was the town's all around fix-it man - and oh, how he loved to piddle in his basement. It was so easy to buy for him for Christmas - until he had two of every kind of tool there was. There wasn't anything he couldn't fix - and that included a broken heart. Papaw was a member of the Wheelwright Masonic Lodge and he was also a Kentucky Colonel. Perhaps his greatest personal achievement was that of a born-again Christian, and he loved to celebrate God's love with the Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church. He was a little man - yet he stood so tall. He was a humble, hard working man who instilled within his family to be honest, to love one another, and most of all to serve the Lord. When you looked into those precious eyes you knew right off that God lived there. These last few years took a toll on his little body, but it could not touch his sense of humor. His wittiness gave us so much laughter. He wasn't able to get around like he used to, so God, being the gracious God that He is, said "Enough, little Effie, I'll carry you safely home and give you a brand new body. With the testimony he's left behind we know that he'll never truly leave us. He will never die as long as there is someone alive to remember - and when there is no one to remember, it will not matter, because it will be then that we will all be together again. We will love you always, Papaw.
Written by your granddaughter, Sabrina C. Hall

HALL, HARLOS-- APRIL 23, 1933 - MAY 2, 1998
It's with a broken heart that we try to write the obituary of our loving dad, Harlos Hall, who passed away on May 2, 1998. Dad was born on April 23, 1933, to the late Elder Jerry Hall and Tora (Amburgey) Hall. He was married to his loving wife, Wanda (Allen) Hall on April 30, 1951, and from this union were born four children: Vanessa Martin (Wayne) of Lorain, Sabrina Russell of Lorain, Tim Hall (Sandi) of Elyria and Eldon Hall of Elyria, and one granddaughter, Melissa Danielle Martin. He is survived by three brothers: Ivan Hall of Middleburg Heights, Ohio; Charles Hall of St. Charles, Illinois; and Terry Hall of St. Louis, Missouri.; and four sisters: Jean Burton of Cullman, Alabama; Lorraine Daniels of Cleveland, Ohio; Lydia Rakosy of Brookpark, Ohio; and Mary Yvonne Castle of Drift, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by three brothers: Daniel, Edward and Jerry Jr.; and one sister, Gladys Meade, and his parents. Dad worked at Ford Motor Co. in Brookpark, Ohio for 35 years before retiring in 1991. He was a member of the Pleasant View Church since 1980 and ordained as a Deacon in 1983. His life was the church and serving God. He loved being around his church brothers and sisters more than anything. Dad had been ill with heart problems for a long time and had been in and out of the hospital the past few years. Every day found him a little weaker and one day closer to home. His last day on earth was spent at his church attending bread baking. He sat in his usual pew on the front row at Pleasant View and after the introduction he looked over and told Elder Larry Newsome that he was dying and closed his eyes and went home. If he could say one more thing to his children, it would be to repent and be born again, for there is a better land than this old troublesome world. Dad's work here is over and he's resting from his labors. Some day, with all our hearts, we believe we will see him again. So sleep on, sweet Father, until we meet again. We will miss you dearly and we loved you with all our hearts. He is sadly missed by his children, wife and family.
Written by his broken-hearted son and daughter-in-law, Tim and Sandi Hall, and wife, Wanda

HALL, TOWN
Town Hall, son of the late Alex and Sally Bates Hall, was born at Hall, Kentucky on July 9, 1900. He passed from this life suddenly and unexpectedly at his residence at Kite, Ky., Monday, December 8, 1997, making his stay here on earth 97 years, 4 months and 29 days. Town married Mattie May Quillen on March 12, 1942. She preceded him in death on May 2, 1995. Also preceding him were a number of brothers and sisters. He was self-employed, working at farming and logging during his working life. Even after what you would call retiring he kept on the go until his health began to fail in August. He wasn't a member of the Rebecca Church of Kite, Ky., but he attended whenever he could. Town is survived by 7 daughters: Hassie Short of Jackhorn, Ky.; Mallie Smith of Avonlake, Oh.; Allie Wright of Deane, Ky.; Wilma Bentley of Dema, Ky.; Eula Short of Deane, Ky.; Joyce Hall of Malberry, Ind.; and Lois Bentley of Dema, Ky.; 2 sons, Kermit Leon Hall and Larry Hall, both of Kite, Ky.; 1 sister, Marie Hall of Cumberland Gap, Ky.; and 3 brothers: John Hall, Estill Hall and Roy Hall, all of Kite, Ky. Also surviving are 17 grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and a large number of other relatives and friends to mourn his passing. Daddy will be missed by all of us. The homeplace is quiet now, all we have left are memories, and the hope of seeing Mommy and Daddy again. "That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life," John 3:15.
Love you Daddy, Wilma Sue Bentley

HALL, WILLIE "BEANBUG"
Willie Hall was the son of the late Talt and Nannie Hall of Floyd County, Ky. Willie was born March 28, 1928, in Floyd County, Ky. He passed away February 10, 1998. Willie Hall wed Virginia D. Mitchell April 15, 1963. They were together over 34 years. How they loved each other. Willie was preceded in death by two brothers, Hen Hall and Elder Triplett Hall, and four sisters: Milviene Hall, Lizzie Newsome, Spicy Hamilton and Mary Johnson. Survivors left to mourn our loss are his loving wife, Virginia Deryl Mitchell Hall; one brother, Robert Hall of Robinson Creek, Ky.; one sister, Nellie Newsome of Teaberry, Ky.; and many nieces and nephews who loved him very much. Willie Hall was a disabled coal miner and a member of the Samaria Old Reaular Baptist Church for 32 years. Our loss was Heaven's gain. Willie leaves a number of beloved relatives and friends who will regretfully mourn his passing. His loving wife, Virginia Hall, will miss him the most and will always love him, until they meet again in Heaven.
Written by the loving family

HAMILTON, DAISY MAE TACKETT
It is with the help of the Lord that we will make an attempt to write an obituary for Daisy Mae Hamilton. She was born March 23, 1943 to Bertha Bryant and Tramble Tackett. Her maternal grandparents were the late John Wes and Lydia Bentley Bryant. Her paternal Grandparents were the late Georgia and Mary Hamilton Tackett. She leaves behind a host of brothers and sisters to mourn their loss. They are: James Hamilton, Delmer Kendrick, Palmer Kendrick, Bill Kendrick, Clyde Kendrick, Milford Kendrick, Dorothy Crunette, Kermit Tackett, Eva Reyvon Hamilton, and Sharon Kay Parsons. Also a brother, Elmer Kendrick, preceded her in death. Daisy Mae met and married Aaron Hamilton July 6, 1960. Unto this union of thirty-eight years were blessed three daughters: Arlene Bentley, Abigail Wellman, and Michelle Hamilton. Also there are five grandchildren: Keith and Brent Bentley, Shelly and Eric Hammond, and Jordan and Brittany Hamilton, all whom she loved dearly. Early in life Daisy Mae saw the need for the Lord in her life and came to repentance. She was baptized and although the Lord showed her she was clean with the first baptism, she still wasn't completely satisfied. After much longing, and many prayerful requests, she later made her home with the Old Regular Baptists. Her membership was at the Mother's Home Church of Tolers Creek, Ky. While growing up she had many trials, yet with the Lord to guide her she was blessed to overcome them. Daisy Mae was a very forgiving person. She had a wonderful gift and was blessed with a deep understanding of life. She could read the Bible and explain it with great talent. She was always hungry for the knowledge of the Lord and had a great desire to do the Lord's will. Daisy Mae also leaves behind a dear friend, Veyon Newsome, who was a friend indeed. They were as close as sisters, spiritually and naturally. They were as close as any two friends could be. I'm sure Veyon has many fond memories of the special friendship they shared. She was a dear friend, as well as a sister, to me. We shared many conversations about the Lord, the Bible and life itself. Though we may have had different opinions at times we could still discuss our views and problems with an open mind. I am forever grateful and thankful that the Lord blessed me with the privilege of getting to know her. Daisy Mae was a brave Christian. She had the courage to face death without fear and the strength to overcome it. She fought a good fight, she kept the faith and now has claimed the victory because all suffering, pain and sorrow have passed away and she now has joy and peace. So sleep on, precious Mother, sister, and friend, till that glorious morning when God calls His children home and we can be reunited with our loved ones forevermore.
Written by fainily and friends

HAMILTON, ETHEL
With much sadness, and a heart that is so heavy, I will try to write the obituary of my wonderful mother, Ethel Hamilton. Mom was born August 26, 1930, in Beaver, Ky., and passed away June 22, 1997, in Ashtabula, Ohio. She was the daughter of Kenis and Frankie Hamilton. She married Andy Hamilton December 27, 1948, and unto this union was born one daughter, Joyce. She has four sisters remaining: Jean Vance, Huntington, Ind., Ival Newsome and Flossie Hall, both of Ashtabula, Ohio, and Genene of Tipp City, Ohio. She has three brothers: Ishmael, Chicago, Ill., Odra, Worth, W.Va. and Jerry, Wellington, Ky. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Andy, her sister, Aveniel, her brother, Claude, and her half brother, Tolby. Mom and Dad lived in Kentucky just a short time when they were married. They moved to Ashtabula after my dad got out of the service around 1954. My mother was the most wonderful person anyone could meet. She loved having company and laughter with friends and family. The joy of her life though, were her three grandchildren, Ron, Amy, and Kyle. She built her work around their lives and encouraged them. She never criticized, but just told them the right thing to do in this life. She loved us all so much. Her house was open to friends and family. Mom belonged to the Little Rosa Church in McDowell, Ky. for about thirty years. Mom was a hard worker. She worked at Nelson Machine Shop for about eleven years. She began getting sick early in her life. She just trusted in the Lord to lead her and heal her. I think the most joyous thing in my mother's life was her great-granddaughter, Alyssa, and her great-grandson, Tyler. Alyssa was born, I believe, to make mom and dad's last years more full. They had a relationship that was so close. Her eyes lit up when Alyssa was around. My mother was known to almost everyone as "Mamaw." She was a mother, a grandmother, and a friend to everyone she met. Her home was the magnet, a place where all of us met to laugh and sometimes cry. I could never ask for a better mother. She was my rock. I will miss her so very much. The house will be an empty shell, but, the comfort I have is that she is not suffering any more. She is with my dad in a home so much brighter than the one on earth. I know I will see her and Daddy again someday. I love them both so much and it is hard to imagine life without both of them. But, with God's help, I will continue this journey until I meet them again. I love you, Mommy, and I'll see you again someday in a land where there is no suffering, no pain, no troubles, and no fears.
Written by Joyce, her daughter

HAMILTON, ELDER HERSHELL
We, the family, with the assistance of our Lord, Jesus, will attempt to write an obituary of our dearly beloved husband and father, Hershell Hamilton. Hershell was born to Wilburn and Martha Tackett Hamilton on April 12, 1929. He passed away November 5, 1997. Hershell attended grade school at Teaberry, Ky., Betsy Layne High School and Alice Lloyd College. He then joined the Navy in 1946. He spent a tour on the USS Huntington, during the Korean War. He often spoke of his travels to far away lands while in the Navy. We can proudly acclaim that he served his time with great pride and honor for his country. He met Alberta Mitchell, who became his lifelong loving and devoted companion. They were united in marriage December 1, 1950, and enjoyed many happy and joyous moments together. Unto this union were born 5 children: Janet Vance, Eddie Hamilton, and Brenda Howell of Hi Hat, Ky.; Daniel Hamilton of Lexington, Ky.; and Douglas Hamilton, who preceded him in death. Hershell has 6 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. Hershell is also survived by 2 brothers and 1 sister: Willie Hamilton and Mary Newsome of Beaver, Ky., and Russell Hamilton of Hi Hat, Ky. In 1952 he and Alberta moved to Michigan to begin their life together. He was employed by Ford Motor Co. and General Motors. He was saved and joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in 1952. He was baptized by Sid Hudson and Lloyd Mullins at the Ford Lake in Michigan. He helped establish the Little Ida Church in Ecourse, Michigan. He was ordained in 1958, at the age of 29, setting an example for all his family and community to follow. He brought his family back to Kentucky in 1956 and became a member of the Samaria Church. He had found his home. He was a faithful and active member. He served as Moderator from 1970 until November 1997. He always spoke of the Samaria Church and the Old Regular Baptist people as his family, and we all know that it was one of his greatest loves. By following in his tradition, which he always let us know came from God's written word, he has put us on a path that if we do not veer from will lead us to his new home in Heaven. The time he had away from the church he spent as a dedicated, hard working man. He worked in the coal mines for several years and then became a successful business owner. He and Alberta established Hamilton Auto Parts at Hi Hat, Ky. He was always a civic minded person. He quickly became an outspoken leader of the community. He oversaw the Vista Government projects on Mud Creek. He served on the Floyd County Fiscal Court as magistrate of District 4 from 1977-1981. He was a board member for Mud Creek Clinic from 1985-1997. There were many other accomplishments, too numerous to mention, that he will always be remembered for. He loved all people whom he came in contact with. Words cannot express the happiness and joy that he brought to his family and everyone who knew him. We want the world to know that he stood for all that was right in the Lord, and when you think of him remember his smile and joyfulness that followed. May God Bless each and every one of us and give us strength to carry on, as Hershell has taught us. Amen.
Written by the farnily

HAMILTON, SADIE
With much sadness in our hearts, we will try to write an obituary of my beloved mother, grandmother, and sister. Mom was born October 20, 1913. She left this world February 1, 1998, making her stay upon this earth eighty-four years, three months and eleven days. Sadie was the daughter of Andrew and Julie Ell Mitchell. She was the widow of Frank Hamilton; they were united in marriage on September 25, 1935. Unto this union was born one child, Roberta Hamilton. Sadie also leaves behind to mourn their loss four grandchildren: Denzil McKinney, Jeanette Tucker, Patricia Collins, Julie Howell, all of Teaberry Ky.; nine great-grandchildren; four sisters: Mary Alice Blankenship of Teaberry Ky., Jettie Walker of Beaver, Ky., Tilda Jane Halash of Detroit, Michigan, and Goldie Mitchell of Hi Hat Ky. She was preceded in death by three brothers: Christopher Columbus Mitchell, Malen Jr. Mitchell, and John Mitchell, and two sisters, Bessie Hall and Rhoda Hall; and a host of friends and neighbors and brothers and sisters in the Lord. Sadie joined the Old Regular Baptist family in her early years, around eighteen or twenty years of age. She joined the Samaria Church and later moved her membership to Pilgrim's Home Church to be with her husband, Frank Hamilton. We still miss Sadie very much. And when we think of her and the way she fought her illness, we know she was a very strong lady.
Written by her broken-hearted family

HAMILTON, STEVEN ALLEN
It is with the help of the Lord that we will try to write an obituary of a loving son and big brother, Steven Allen Hamilton. Steve was born September, 23, 1967 and passed away December, 21, 1997, making his stay here on earth 30 years. He was the son of Lester and Eva Reyvon Hamilton. Aside from his parents, left to mourn their loss is a loving family of two brothers, David Leslie Hamilton and Ronald Fredrick Hamilton, and one sister, Lisa Lavon Wheeler; also a very special niece, Courtney Lynn Hamilton. Steven was the first beloved grandchild of the late Tramble and Rosie Hamilton Tackett. His papaw Tramble preceded him in death Sept. 24, 1993, just three months earlier. Also Steve was a very special nephew to his aunt Kay and uncle Kermit. He seemed more like a brother than a nephew because he was so close to them and they loved him as if he was their very own. His paternal grandparents were Thomas Jr. and Ermogene Peters Hamilton of Banner, KY. Although Steven was never married in life he left many friends and relatives who will miss him dearly. Steven was a graduate of Betsy Layne High School, class of 1985. He also graduated from Mayo Technical College with top honors. He had earned his degree in diesel mechanics and was employed at Worldwide Equipment, Prestonsburg, KY. Steve was a blessing, he was such a good boy. He was a good obedient child growing up. He was truthful, honest, and hard working. Steve always gave the other children good advice and they all looked up to him. He was someone the whole family could depend on. He was a special friend to all in the community. Steve was a kind and caring person. With his humble personality and loving heart, he was always there when family or friends needed him. He was the type of person you could trust with your very life. I don't believe he ever had an enemy. Just as the minister said in his funeral, "Steven was the strong, silent type." He never had much to say or complain about. He worked hard and was a very responsible young man. Stevie had accomplished a lot in life, yet to be so young he never took anything for granted. He knew from all his accomplishments, that he had been blessed by the Lord, and for this he was thankful. He often quoted, "This is how the good Man above made me, and this is how I should be." Although a young son, he was like a wise old man who taught us how to look at things and, in his own way, showed us how to learn to love by being good to everyone. He seemed to have wisdom beyond his years. Some people live to be old but will never touch as many lives as Steven did in his short thirty years here. He was the kind of son any parent would be proud of. Steven was taken from us by an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) accident. It's still hard to believe he's gone, he was always so careful. He was sent into this world for a purpose, hopefully that purpose was fulfilled, but God had a better purpose. He can take tragedy and bring good from it, for nothing is in vain in the eyes of God. He knows all things and He knows what's best. With this for our comfort we know we must trust in the Lord. Steven was a good son, brother, and friend to all and I'm sure the Lord took that into account when he was taken from us. Although he never confessed a "hope," he still knew to call upon the Lord. So if his life touched you in some way, then let his death touch you even more, for we know not what hour our time will come. So always be ready and call upon the name of the Lord!
Written with loving memories by his broken-hearted family

HAMILTON, SYLVIA
With the help of God, I will write the obituary of our dear mother, Sylvia Newsome Hamilton. She was born June 18, 1926 at Hi Hat, Kentucky, the daughter of Perry and Nola Newsome. She married Willis Hamilton Sr. on July 2, 1943. To this union were born three sons: Donald Gene Hamilton, deceased; Randy Ray Hamilton, Galveston, Kentucky; Willis Hamilton, Jr., Warsaw, In.; seven daughters: Estalena Hamilton, Wonda Lou Rogers, Patricia Villaverde, all of Warsaw, In., Mary Sue Kenoshmeg, Mentone, In., Tina Diana Rose Marrufo, Syracuse, In., Bonnie Sue Johnson, St. Paul, Virginia, and Geraldene Hamilton, deceased; thirty grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. Mom joined the Northern Little Dove Church, Sydney, Indiana, and was baptized on Mother's Day in 1993. When I was little, on Sunday after church, Mom would invite everyone to our house for dinner. Mom always wore a smile, she never met a stranger. People were more important to her than things. She took care of orphans, also a blind lady who was unable to care for herself. She loved us children so much, and called us her flower garden, each child was a special flower. Mom left a void in our hearts that can never be filled, but the memory of her kind and gentle nature will always be with us. We were blessed to have her for our mother. Mom and I would be walking in the yard, at the roses, she would turn and say "Poodie, your Dad has been very good to me." Sometimes, I would be sitting with Mom at midnight while Popie read his Bible, Mom would say, you know I have two families, one here on earth and one in Heaven. Then she would say, "Lord, come quickly." Mom was sick for many years and knew her life on earth was coming to an end. She waited faithfully with patience for her invitation from Jesus. And, just before dawn on December 24, 1997, He called and said, "Come Home." With my Dad and me by her side, she closed her eyes and went to be with her Savior, Jesus Christ, and other loved ones who had gone on before her. Mom, we think of you in silence and often speak your name, but all that is left are memories of you and your picture in a frame.
Composed by her daughter, Estalena Hamilton, and husband, Willis Hamilton

HAMPTON, DESSIE F.
With the help of the Lord to guide my mind with words, I will try to write the obituary of my precious mother, to whom I was so close as a child, and her belief in church and the Lord. Mommy was bom August 1, 1916 to L. D. (Dow) and Annie Johnson at Speight, Kentucky. God called her from this earth to a better place on February 12, 1997, making her stay on earth 80 years, 6 months, and 19 days. On November 30, 1932, she married Hassel Hampton. They were married for 64 years. She leaves to mourn her passing her loving husband, Hassel; two sons, Leo Hampton and wife, Carolyn, of River Rouge, Michigan; Robert Lee Hampton and wife, Jackie, of Long Fork Road, Virgie, Kentucky; three daughters: Ruby Dike and husband, Richard, of Taylor, Michigan; Pauline Tackett and husband, Clell, of Long Fork Road, Virgie, Kentucky and Ola Mae Hampton and husband, Edgar, of Robinson Creek Road, Kentucky; 12 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren, one she never lived to see. She also had one great-great-grandson. Mommy joined Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church at Melvin, Kentucky, on a Saturday in July, 1948, and was baptized on a Sunday in July, 1948. After she and Daddy moved to Michigan she would come back to church when she could. She always wanted to be at church every foot-washing. She was baptized by Elders Jerry Hall and Bud Johnson. Mommy lived her life loving to meet people and talking to them. She also loved to cook and have people eat with her and to cook food and help other people through sad times. She loved to raise a big garden. She canned and put food in her freezers or she gave the food to others. Her heart was filled with love for other people. Mommy fought a hard battle with cancer for two years. When she felt real bad she still took care of Daddy. I can never forget how hard she worked to take care of Daddy and cope with the pain she felt. She tried to comfort us children so we wouldn't worry so much, but our hearts ached anyway. She was so special, but when God wanted her, we had to let her go. I Hope to be in Heaven with her some sweet day, where we won't have to cry so hard any more.
Written by the baby daughter and sister in hope, Ota Mae Hampton

HAMILTON, HASSEL
With the help of the Lord, I will try to write the obituary of my precious daddy, to whom I was so close as a child, and who I helped take care of the last year of his life. Daddy was born June 18, 1910 in Pike County, Kentucky to Pleasant and Laura Tackett Hampton. His mother passed away when Daddy was three years old, leaving him lonely. He would tell me about two people at Weeksbury, Kentucky who were special to him and who helped raise him. Daddy had Parkinson's Disease, and had to be tube fed for a year. God called him from this earth June 3, 1998 to a better home, making his stay on earth 87 years, 11 months and 15 days. He married Dessie Johnson on November 30, 1932. They were married for 64 years. She preceded him in death February 12, 1997. They had five children, two sons, Leo Hampton of River Rouge, Michigan and Robert Lee Hampton of Virgie, Kentucky, and three daughters, Pauline Tackett and Ola Mae Hampton of Virgie, Kentucky, and Ruby Dike of Taylor, Michigan, who proceeded him in death September 6, 1997. He also had 12 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Daddy joined Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church at Melvin, Kentucky. He loved to go to church and was a faithful member. He loved everyone and he never said bad things to anyone. He was a quiet and kind person who lived every day for the Lord. He was baptized by Elders Arnold Tackett and Monroe Jones. After he retired from work at 65 years of age he and Mommy traveled a lot. He would write down where they went and how much gas his car used, as well as, the miles they had traveled. He had to give up driving in 1994 because of his Parkinson's Disease.In his younger days he worked in the coal mines. When he went to Michigan he was a steel worker. He worked hard for his family. Even when he was sick, he would still go to work. The last year of his life, when I helped take care of Daddy, he was so sweet. He never complained. We had a lot of good talks about people we knew years ago, and about the Bible, and going to church. He gave us all good advice. The last words he said at the hospital a few hours before he died were, "Ola Mae, I love you." That will be in my heart forever. We children sure hated to give Daddy up. He was so special, but when God wanted him,, we had to let him go. The memories we have will go on forever. I Hope to be in Heaven with you someday, Daddy. So, I won't have to cry anymore. Daddy, I love you and miss you.
Your baby daughter, Ola Mae Hampton

HANDSHOE, DELLA SHEPHERD
Della Shepherd Handshoe, the daughter of William (Brushy Bill) Shepherd and Elizabeth Hale Shepherd, was born on the Brushy Fork of Licking River in Magoffin County on January 1, 1897, and deceased this natural life on November 2, 1986 at age 89. May 26, 1916 she was united in marriage to Henry Shepherd, who preceded her in death on June 21, 1931. One of the daughters said that Henry had made a confession that he had been forgiven of his sins and desired to become a member of the Philadelphia Old Regular Baptist Church on Brush Creek, but he didn't live to be baptized and become a member of this old church. Unto this union were born the following children, who survive: Bertha Shepherd, Lula Fleming, Myrtle Shepherd and John Henry Shepherd all of Gunlock, Kentucky; Vernia Shepherd of Claypool, Indiana; Maudie Engleman and Dora Lee Lang, both of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Leora Stephens of Ashland, Ohio. One daughter preceded her in death, Hazel. After the death of Della's first husband she was united in marriage on October 12, 1937, to Alexander (Alex) Handshoe, who preceded her in death on November 28, 1981.Unto this union was born one daughter, Frankie Handshoe Prater. Surviving is one brother, Kelly Shepherd (a twin) of Wabash, Indiana. Deceased brothers and sisters are: James (Jim), Samuel (Sam), Silas Boggs, Abraham (Abe), Woodson (Woots), William (Willie) Sally, Leatha Ann, Mary (Nearie) Lydia Margaret, and Dora. Also surviving are 61 grandchildren and probably over 100 great and great-great-grandchildren. She lived to see the fifth generation of her descendants. Sister Delia was a hard-working woman. She reared her children up by working hard, as the hardships of the mountains in Magoffin County were very difficult during her early life. Probably not very many present can remember how few luxuries of life there were in the mountains years ago. Aside from all this, her complaints were few and she showed her love to her children by being a kind and considerate mother all of her life. One evening while having church at her home, Sister Della gave her hand and told an experience of grace, relating how God had forgiven her of her sins and her desire to be baptized as soon as her health would permit. In just a few days she called the brothers back to her home, and while laying on a lounge chair, she was baptized by Elder Banner Manns and his grandson, Elder Jerry Manns, assisted by Deacon Brother Arthur Stephens. Her membership was taken in the Philadelphia Old Regular Baptist Church on Brush Creek at Hippo, Kentucky. It seemed that from that time on, her desire was for the Lord to take her home so that her suffering would end. Sometimes she would revive in feelings and feel a little bit better, but on Sunday morning at 2:15 a.m., November 2, 1986, God saw fit to call her on home and her children said she died clapping her feeble hands. So children, relatives and friends, I know that you will miss mother greatly, because she has been with you so long, but you should be comforted to have had a good mother and to know that her suffering has ended. Death was the only way that she could enter her eternal home. My advise is to be good to each other, and be prepared to meet mother when this life is over.
Written by request of the family (November 3, 1986) by Brother Monroe Vanderpool
(Submitted by Brother Fred Vanderpool, September 6, 1998)

HOLT, NORA MAY TACKETT
With loving memory, we try to write this obituary of our loving mother and grandmother, Nora May Tackett Holt. She was born on November 20, 1909, to Judy and Geroid Tackett. She departed this life on April 23, 1998. She was married to Melvin Holt on August 13, 1926. He preceded her in death on January 25, 1960. Unto this union were born six children: John, Topsie, Richard, Sterling, Aaron, and the sole survivor of this union, Delta Holt Brown. She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Lawrence and LeeTackett, and her sister Topsie Tackett Newsome. She leaves behind one sister, Birdie Tackett. She also leaves behind fifteen grandchildren, and twenty-six great-grandchildren, and several great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Mom, Grandma, joined The Little Rosa Old Regular Baptist Church and was baptized in the Spring of 1965. She was loved by everyone who ever knew her, and will be greatly missed by all, but a piece of her will always remain in our hearts.
With loving memories, your daughter and grandchildren

HOPSON, ANNIE COMPTON
Mother, Annie Compton Hopson, was born July 27, 1895 at Yeager, Kentucky. She died at the homeplace on Collins Highway November 10, 1997. She is buried in the Coleman Cemetery at Collins next to her loving husband, Willie David Hopson. Her mother and father were Nancy Yates Compton and Lee Compton, Jr. Mother was married to Daddy, Willie David Hopson, by Brother Robert Damron on April 27, 1911. Daddy died June 28, 1965. They were the parents of eleven children, six of whom are still living: Annie, Nancy Lee, Loraine, David, Edward, and James E.; the five deceased are: Terra, Lonnie, Mentie, Eugene, and Richard. Mother was blessed with 38 grandchildren, 94 great-grandchildren, and 32 great-great-grandchildren. Mother lived all her life in Eastern Kentucky. Her faith in Jesus was a very important part of her life. She first took membership at the Regular Baptist Church at Robinson Creek. In 1914 she moved her membership in an arm to help establish the Little Creek Regular Baptist Church where she was the last living founding member. Mother raised a big family (all of whom were born at home) and a garden most of her life. She loved to point out the barn across from the house where she kept her cows. Mother milked the cow twice a day, churned her own butter, and raised her own chickens. She enjoyed quilting and raising flowers and passed her love for these things along to her children and grandchildren. We know that Mother and Daddy are gone to Beulah Land, where there are no more heartaches, illnesses, or pains. Therefore, two beautiful roses have bloomed in God's precious garden and we hope to someday be reunited with them. We love and miss you, Mother and Daddy.
Written by their beloved family

HUFF, JAMES
With happy, loving memories of my Papaw, I write his obituary, knowing that one cannot condense the blessedness of a whole lifetime of joys and sorrows into a few short paragraphs. James (Jeemes) Huff was born on May 2, 1910, to Isom and Louanna Huff. On December 2, 1935, he married Lillie Slone and God blessed them with 12 children. The seven sons are: Estill, Menefee, Marion, Curtis, Marcus, Edwin and Stanley. The five daughters are: Gracie Slone, Allie Slone, Florida Combs, Clova Hale and Pamela Hall. He also leaves behind 51 grandchildren and 41 great grandchildren and one sister, Dallie Zermeno Slone. Papaw loved the Old Regular Baptist Church and on April 2, 1967, he and Mamaw Lillie were baptized into the Mt. Olive Old Regular Baptist Church, after the Lord had granted them an experience of Grace. Papaw loved "old time" preaching and singing the old songs of Zion. For many years to come, that was his meat and his drink. The Lord of all Glory, the loving kindness of King Jesus, and the sweetness of the Holy Spirit, was all that Papaw wanted to talk about. Papaw and Mamaw lived a down-home country life, and did their best to raise their children to always remember that no matter how far in sin they might wander, that the goodness of God was only a prayer away. In the Father's House there is always bread and bread to spare.Papaw watched his children leave home one by one to start families of their own. On November 13, 1993, the Lord called Mamaw Lillie home and Papaw missed her very much. I believe that he prayed every day for the Lord to take him to be with her. Almost four years later, God granted his wish. He had finished his course, kept the faith and had won his crown. On August 12, 1997, the Lord sent Angels to bear Papaw's soul away. Now he listens to singing that we just couldn't give him here on God's footstool. There is no more pain, no more sorrow, only peace, joy and love forevermore in a world without end nestled in the everlasting arms of Jesus.

HUNT, RANEY HAMILTON
I will attempt to write the obituary of my dear mother, Raney Hamilton Hunt. Mom was born June 26, 1907. She was the daughter of the late Jessie and Lizzie Salisbury Hamilton. Mom departed this life on May 4, 1998, at her home on Toler Creek. She was just short of her 91st birthday. Mom married my father, Ballard Hunt on June 28, 1924. They were married 66 years and 7 months at the time of my father's death on February 1, 1992, and to this union were born fourteen children. Three died in infancy, leaving eleven children, six boys and five girls, a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren to mourn her passing. Mom joined The Mother's Home Old Regular Baptist Church on Toler Creek May 13, 1975, and was baptized by Elders Luther Conn and C. Edd Kidd. Mom loved the church so much. She cooked and invited everyone from the church to come and eat with them for many, many years. Mom lived a good Christian life. She was so humble and loved everyone she met. The last six years of Mom's life I was with her day and night, and in this time I learned very much from her. It is very hard not having Mom with us, And it already seems like she has been gone for years. I loved my mother so much. She was the best friend I've ever had. "Mom, I hope and pray that I will meet you and Daddy in Heaven someday."
Written by her daughter, Patricia Hunt Stevens

HUNTER, LAWRENCE
With the help of God, and loving memories, I will try to write an obituary of my brother-in-law, Lawrence Hunter. He was born March 28, 1919 in Honaker, KY. On May 9, 1997, he passed away at Dwale, KY making his stay on Earth 78 years, 1 month, and 11 days. He was the son of the late Benjamin Franklin and Maudie Hamilton Hunter. On March 9, 1940, he married Margie Hall and to this union were born: Olgie Helen Ferrell of Harold, IN, Willie Rodney Hunter of Angola, IN, Sammy Hunter of Castolia, OH, and Emrnitt Hunter, who preceded him in death. Lawrence leaves two sisters, Nancy Kidd and Clara May Morgan; three brothers, John Hunter, Willie Hunter and Ora Hunter; ten grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 6 step-great-grandchildren. Lawrence Hunter was a disabled coal miner and was known by most people in Floyd County as a farmer and THAT HE WAS !!! Lawrence knew he was dying from cancer. He told his daughter three days before he died that he was dying and he didn't seem worried about it as he was ready to go. My wife and I went to stay with them that night so the family could get some rest. Lawrence told me about two weeks before he died that he was praying and he was going to be all right. I thank God for letting me see and hear what Lawrence said that morning before he went Home. I was sitting on the bed where he was lying. I saw him reach up his hand toward the ceiling and he put it to his mouth. He did this two times and then he said, "Praise the Lord." That was the last time I saw him move. He closed his eyes and was gone.
Walker Hall

ISAAC, LILLY
Lilly Isaac, 70, of Wheelwright, Kentucky, died June 30, 1997, in the Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine. She was born, April 29,1927, at Melvin, Kentucky to Thomas and Sylvania Johnson Wright. She was married to Howell Isaac, who preceded her in death. She was a homemaker and mother and a member of the Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church. She is survived by four sons and six daughters: Tommy Isaac, of Wawaka; Indiana Merlin Isaac, of Virgie, Kentucky; Michael Isaac, of Garrett, Indiana; and Mark Isaac, of McDowell, Kentucky; Wilma Joan Hall, of Haymond, Kentucky; Floris Steele of Ligonier, Indiana; Flotine Morgan, of Angola, Indiana; Marlene Slone, of Wawaka, Indiana; Pauline Dugas, of Portland, Maine; and Libby Hall of Angola, Indiana. She was preceded in death by two sons and one daughter: Howell Isaac, Jr., Verlin Isaac, and Lorine Isaac. She leaves thirty-one grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Two grandchildren preceded her in death. She is survived by a twin brother; Billy Wright, of Wheelwright, Kentucky, and seven sisters: Dorsie Johnson, of Wheelwright, Kentucky; Millie Avalos, of Mentone, Indiana; Geneva Holbrook, of Mentone, Indiana; Jessie Lee Bentley, of Mentone, Indiana; Pearlie Bentley, of Maytown, Kentucky; Gracie Shifflett, of Culpepper, Virginia; and Mildred Burke, of Wheelwright, Kentucky. Four sisters preceded her in death: Nina Wright, Rosie McCall, Annie Wright, and Gracie Gilliam. She was buried in the Isaac cemetery at Wheelwright, Kentucky, with her son, Tommy Isaac, offi- ciating.

JACOBS, CLIFFORD
With much sadness, I will try to write an obituary for my dad. Clifford Jacobs was born on November 15, 1932, in Pippa Passes, Kentucky. He passed this life on October 31, 1997, in Jackson, Michigan. He is survived by his wife, Bessie Irene Jacobs; his mother, Bloomie Jacobs Slone of Pippa Passes, Kentucky; his son, Larry Caudill, and his wife, Gracie, of Wolcottville, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his father, Erton Caudill; one infant son; and two brothers, Robert Brewer and Angus Slone, both of Ligonier, Indiana. He also leaves behind two brothers: Bill Slone, Jr. of Wawaka, Indiana and Ted Slone of Pippa Passes, Kentucky; and five sisters: Thelma Jean Hout of Mansville, Ohio; Barbara Hernley of Leesburg, Virginia; Gladys Slone of Pippa Passes, Kentucky; Margaret Setser of Warsaw, Indiana; and Wanda Peffer of Ligonier, Indiana; one half-brother: G.B. Caudill, Marion, Ohio; and four half-sisters: Helen Jacobs of Garner, Kentucky; Ogie Mae Sparkman of Emmalena, Kentucky; Jean Zollinger of New Paris, Indiana; and Melda Barker of Marion, Ohio; six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. As a young man Clifford began working as a log truck driver in Knott County, Kentucky. In 1949, he moved to Detroit, Michigan where he worked at Chrysler Manufacturing Plant. Then, on March 18, 1953, he was married to Bessie Ousley the daughter of the late Elder John and Susie Ousley of Martin, Kentucky. Later, in 1957, the Crysler Automotive Manufacturing Plant eventually transferred to Ohio, but Clifford choose to return to Martin, Kentucky to work as a coal miner. In 1962, he returned to Michigan to work for Hayes-Albion Automotive Manufacturing Plant in Jackson, where he retired in 1978, due to failing health problems. Later in life he accepted Christ into his life on Sunday, August 24, 1997, and was baptized on August 31, 1997, at the Little Vineyard Old Regular Baptist Church at Eaton Rapid, Michigan. He was baptized by Estil Hamilton and Charles Newson. He leaves to mourn his saddened family and friends, along with his wife, Bessie Ousley Jacobs, whom he dearly loved and spent his life with, together in marriage of 44 years, 7 months and 13 days before God then called him Home.
Written by his son, family and friends

JACOBS, DELLA LORETTA (OUSLEY)
With the help of our precious Lord, a saddened husband, heartbroken children, her family, and her friends will try to write the obituary of our loved one, Della Loretta (Ousley) Jacobs. She was born on August 23, 1947, at Martin, Kentucky, and departed this life on June 9, 1998. Della was the daughter of the late Elder John Ousley and the late Susie Stephens Ousley. Left to mourn her passing are her husband, McArthur; two sons, Steven and Clifford McArthur; one daughter, Susan Irene; three grandchildren, Justin, Brittany, and Charlotte; two daughters-in-law, Sarita (Bentley) and Debra (Hutchinson), all of Martin, Kentucky. Also left to mourn her departing are two sisters, Louise Egbert of Prestonsburg, Kentucky and Bessie Irene Jacobs of Martin, Kentucky; two brothers, Hubert "Mouse" Ousley of Troy, Tennessee; and Calvin Dean Ousley of Martin, Kentucky; three nieces, five nephews, and a host of family and friends. In the fall of 1963, Della met and fell in love with Mack while attending the funeral of Mack's grandfather, Henry Jacobs (Henry being the father-in-law of Della's sister, Bessie). Mack told Della that he was tired of fixing his own coffee, therefore on January 18, 1964, they were united in marriage. Mack and Della shared their life together by loving and caring for each other for 34 years, 4 months and 22 days. Della's life was full and rewarding with her devotion as a wife, mother, Grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She loved and cared for all, and especially loved her grandchildren. After the death of her father in 1974, Della became concerned about her soul. She became active in the church and later joined on August 10, 1975, at the Old Regular Baptist Church and was baptized. Later in life her name was dismissed without a cause. Throughout the remainder of her life, Della was always talking about the love of Jesus and recently told Brother Bill Tackett to whisper a prayer and pray for her sickness, her afflictions, and the condition of her soul. Although Della did not pursue a job, she devoted her time to caring for others. She always welcomed family and friends into her home. Della always made time for anyone who needed her. During the last several years of her life, Della was afflicted with much sickness and illness. Even though she was suffering, Della kept going on until her final day. We feel our loss is Heaven's gain. Della will be deeply missed by those who loved her and had the opportunity to have known such a special, unique, loving, caring and spiritual person. Written by her husband, her children, family and friends

JOHNSON, DIAMOND
This obituary of my grandfather, Diamond Johnson, is written with great love, wonderful memories, and a broken heart. Diamond Johnson was the son of the late Doc Johnson and the late Ellen Johnson. He was born on March 26, 1926, and departed from this world on December 22, 1997. He was manied February 6, 1943, to Buril Little Johnson. They had one precious son, Denward Johnson. He also had two grandsons whom he held dear to his heart. They are Paul Johnson and Jeremiah Johnson. Survivors of Diamond Johnson include the following: Buril Johnson, wife; Denward Johnson, son; Paul Johnson, grandson; Jeremiah Johnson grandson; Harlis Johnson, brother; Marie Holbrook, sister; and Minnie Belle Osborne, sister. Diamond was a member of the Rebecca Old Regular Baptist Church since September 8, 1978. He was also a deacon since June 12, 1981. He loved to attend church services. He was a retired coal miner. His favorite hobbies were gardening, and chewing tobacco. He never sat still. I will never forget grandpa. He was a kind, gentle, and loving man. He spoke by actions and not words. May your memory live in our hearts forever.

Rest in Peace Grandpa

Rest in peace, Grandpa,
for you have surely earned your rest.
You worked hard here on earth, and did your best.
The Lord needed you more, so He called you home.
Now that you are home, rest in peace, our precious loved one, rest.

Written by his loving children

JOHNSON, ERIC DAVID AND DEREK SCOTT
With the help of our dear Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we will try to write the obituary of our beloved twin grandsons, Eric David Johnson and Derek Scott Johnson. Eric and Derek were born December 6, 1997, at the Pikeville Methodist Hospital and died December 6, 1997 at the Pikeville Methodist Hospital. Eric and Derek were the sons of Delmas Eugene Johnson of Wheelwright, Ky., and Christy Dawn Tackett of Hi Hat, Ky. Grandparents are Delmas R. Johnson and Joyce Ann Caldwell Johnson of Wheelwright, Ky., and Gary and Loretta Tackett of Hi Hat, Ky., and Rebecca Rogers of Coal Grove, Ohio. Paternal great-grandparents are John and Dorothy Caldwell of Huntington, WV., and matemal great-grandparents are Irene Moore of Hi Hat, Ky., Mary Cisco of Scottsville, Ky., and Wanda Johnson of Virgie, Ky. They leave a whole host of uncles and aunts and relatives and friends to mourn the lose of our two little angels. Our hearts were broken that day, but we know with all our hearts that they are resting in the Paradise of God. They were born early and only weighed 13 ounces and 12 ounces. They were so small that you could have held them in your hand. It was hard for us to see them go, but we know that God loved them more than we ever could. We want to say to the parents and grandparents, if you ever want to see these two little angels again, you will have to give your whole heart to Jesus. We love you, Eric and Derek, and you will always remain in our hearts and your mommy's and daddy's hearts. They loved you so much, and were looking forward to putting their arms around you and telling you how much they loved you. So sleep on, our little angels, in the arms of Jesus, until we meet again. We love you.
Written by broken-hearted grandparents, Brother Delmas R. and Sister Joyce Johnson

JOHNSON, CLOTINE
With the help of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I will attempt to write the obituary of my dearly beloved sister Clotine Johnson. Clotie, as I loved to called her, was born October 14, 1926, to the late Eleaner and Martha Jane (Caudill) Newman. She was married to Harold Johnson on September 21, 1946, and they lived most of their lives at Wheelwright, Ky. Clotie faced many hard times in her life but never complained. She would just look at me, smile and call me some sweet name. Clotie joined the Old Regular Baptist Church at Hi Hat, Ky. in 1977. She didn't drive and had much sickness in her family so she didn't go to go to church very much. Clotie and Harold had four sons: Jeffery J., Harold Jr., Randy W. and Gary R.; one daughter, Ellen Sue Daniels, and one adopted daughter Ellen Deenice Hampton. She had three sisters: Nancy Lee Younce, Claudette Little (deceased), Agnes Ray; and four brothers: Willard, Perry, Clyde, all deceased, and Caner Newman. She had seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Clotie will be missed by all who knew her. We rest in the knowledge that we in the Lord will see her again, for she truly loved the Lord, Jesus Christ.
Written by a loving sister, Nancy Younce

JOHNSON, LAURA
With the Lord's help, and a sad and lonely heart, I will attempt to write my precious mother's obituary. Laura Johnson, my mom, was always happy when the children came home. She left this world on April 19, 1998, at McDowell Hospital with all of her kids by her side. Mom was born December 17, 1913, to the late Spencer and Huldie Isaac in Knott County. Early in life she met and married Willie Hall. After his death she married Cool Johnson, who later died. Mom has six children who are living, five sons: Harold Hall, James Hall, Logan Hall, Spencer Hall and Glendal Carol Hall; and one daughter, Josephine Stone. She has two brothers, William Lee Isaac and Mander Isaac, both of Ohio. She has seven brothers and two sisters deceased. She has seventeen grandchildren, twenty-seven great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends who will miss her. Mom belonged to Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church for many years. Mom is asleep in Heaven and I hope we will meet in Heaven someday. So sleep on, precious Mom, we all miss you so very much.
Written by Elder Spencer Hall

JOHNSON, RUSSELL
By the help of the good Lord, I will try to write this obituary at the request of his son and family. Russell Johnson was born on November 2, 1924, at Wales, Kentucky to the late Ben (Sonny) and Lucy Johnson. He passed on to a better place on March 31, 1998. He grew up around here working in the coal mines to make a living for his family. While a young man, he met and married Maudie Ray on May 10, 1945. She preceded him in death on September 5, 1996. He leaves 1 son, Carl Wayne Johnson, a daughter-in-law, Glenna Johnson, and 2 grandchildren, Jessica and Jason Johnson, all of Huntington, IN; 2 sisters, Mable Tackett and Ona Hall, both of Virgie, KY, and a brother, Bryan Johnson, of North Carolina. He had 3 brothers and a sister who preceded him in death. Russell joined the Joppa Church. Maudie never lived to see him join the church, but I believe they are together again. Wayne, son, I know you all miss them so much. I miss them too, but I feel our loss is Heaven's gain. Wayne, I pray that when this life is over that we can all meet again. Jessica and Jason, I know how much you both miss PaPaw and MaMaw, but just be good and meet them in Heaven, over on that beautiful shore.
Written by a sister-in-law and a sister in the Lord, Jewell Tackett,
by the request of his family, Carl Wayne, Glenna, Jessica and Jason

JONES, VERNA HAMILTON
With the help of God, I will try my best to write an obituary of one of the most special people to have touched my life, Verna Hamilton Jones. Verna was born on March 26, 1932 to the late Harvey and Julie Hamilton. She left this world on Monday, October 13, 1997, making her stay here 65 years, 6 months and 18 days. It was one of the worst days of our lives, but the best day for her. For now she is with Jesus. She will suffer no more. Verna was married to the late Ezra Jones. He was a wonderful man. He preceded her in death by 1 year, 6 months and 13 days. Verna and Ezra had two children, a wonderful son, Travis Glen Jones of Grethel, Ky., and a daughter, Joetta Adkins, of Betsy Layne, Ky.; six stepchildren: Jimmy Jones of Betsy Layne, Ky., Ezra Jones Jr. of Ohio, and Joanne James of Florida. Three preceded her in death. She had three beautiful granddaughters, Denise, who was her baby, Shawna, and Leighann; 19 step-grandchildren, and a host of step-great-grandchildren. She left behind two brothers, Lee and Luther Hamilton, and two daughters-in-law, Angela and Brenda, whom she loved as if they were her own. Verna joined the Samaria Church in 1955. One wish that she had was for us children to find Jesus. I hope her wish comes true, so that we can see her and Ezra again in Heaven. Verna was a wonderful lady. She touched everyone she met. To know her was to love her. She was a kind-hearted woman who would do anything for anyone. I thought of her as my second mommy. I miss her so much. I miss her beautiful smile, her voice, her laugh, and her hugs and kisses. I wish God would have left her here a little longer to brighten this world. But now she is shining in Heaven. I thank God for giving me the best in-laws anyone could have. They both treated me as though I were their daughter. I pray that one day we will be in Heaven with you. Until then we will miss you and think of you every day. We love you!
Written by her daughter-in-law and son, Angela and Travis Jones (Ang and Tra)

JONES, VERNIE HAMILTON
With great sadness in our hearts, this poor family will try to write the obituary of our beloved mother Vernie Hamilton Jones. She was born March 26, 1932, to the late Harvey and Julie Bell Hamilton. She left this world on October 13,1997, making her stay here 65 years, 6 months and 16 days. She was a loyal wife and a very loving mother. She loved and raised six children with the help of the late Ezra Jones; of this union were born two children, Joetta and Travis. She raised four stepchildren from Ezra's first marriage, Johnnie, who preceded her in death, Veraline, Ezra Jr. and Jimmy. She had one brother and five sisters who preceded her in death. They were: Carlos, Annie, Martha, Fronnie, Draxie and Ardie. She leaves two living brothers, Lee and Luther Hamilton. She was the grandmother of three girls Denise, Shawna, and LeAnn. She was also the step-grandmother of 19 step-grandchildren. She loved all of her grandchildren dearly, but always called Denise her baby, and she always told her daughters-in-law, Angie and Brenda, that she loved them as her own daughter. She was a loyal member of the Old Regular Baptist Church and she called Samaria her home for at least 42 years. It was very important to Mom that she was a good sister to her brothers and sisters of the church. We know that she is with Dad now, for that we are grateful. Each and everyone that loved her dearly will miss her, and we all hope and pray that we will see dear Mom someday in the kingdom of Heaven, so watch over us, Mommy and Daddy, until we meet again.
From your loving son, Jimmy Jones, and daughter-in-law, Brenda Jones

JUDE, LEWIS
With the Lord's help, and a sad, aching heart, I will try to write the obituary of my husband, Lewis Jude, son of Jack Jude and Pearl (Blackburn) Jude. He was born May 26, 1932, at Laura, Ky. and deceased January 24, 1998, at his home. Lewis married Mary Ellen (Moor) Jude on January 31, 1955. To this union were born three sons: Michael A. Jude, Ronald R. Jude, Donald L. Jude, three daughters-in-law, and four grandchildren. He has four sisters and eight brothers. He was preceded in death by his father and one brother. He was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church of Jesus Christ for over 22 years. He was baptized the first Sunday in July of 1975, by hands of Elder Burton Howard and Brother Ralph Slone in the Mount Sterling Church. He was also a Veteran of the Korean War. Lewis had been ill for 10 years with cancer. He loved to go to church, read his Bible, and sing. He liked to sing "Peaceful in the Arms of My Lord," "A Home Over Yonder," and "When My Feet Touch the Streets of Gold." I believe, with all my heart, Lewis has gone to his home in Heaven and will walk down the streets of gold where he will never need those crutches anymore. His pain is over forever. He told his sons to look after Mommy, because she has been so good to Daddy. In his last remarks, he asked the boys and me to meet him in Heaven. Lewis will be missed very much by his family and everyone who knew him, but we could tell by the look in his eyes, as the boys and I stood by his bedside, that Heaven would soon be his home.
Written by his loving wife, Mary Ellen Jude

KIDD, MILDRED HALL
Her children rise up and call her blessed, her husband also, and he praiseth her. Proverbs 31:28.
In loving memory of a loving wife and mother, Mildred Hall Kidd.  Mildred was a member of the Little Dove Church at Little Mud and was saved July 27, 1975. Mildred was born March 12, 1923, and passed away May 16, 1998, making her stay on earth 75 years. Her parents were the late Joe and Nan Hall of Amba, Kentucky. She married Leonard Kidd of Grethel, Kentucky on October 28, 1939, and 11 children were born to this union: Betty Conley, Roy Kidd, Jo Newsome, Don Kidd, Larry Kidd, Gary Kidd, Lois Waller, Patrina Compton, Mary Ann Newman, and two children who died at birth, one son and a daughter, Bobbie. She leaves 20 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, and 6 sisters and 1 brother who also mourn their loss. Mildred was a loving wife and a wonderful Christian. She always cared for the needs of others, never thinking about her own needs. Even while on her deathbed, she was concerned about others and not about her own sickness. Words cannot describe her kindness and how she made everyone welcome in her home. She loved her family - they were her life. She always had a smile on her face. About one week before her death she asked that all her children come home, and they all left work and came home. She wanted a song sung to her, and they sang "Jesus Loves Me." Immediately after the song she praised God for what seemed like a half hour, lifting her arms toward Heaven. Also, just a couple of days before her death, she said to her youngest daughter "You all need to open your eyes." We believe this was her way of saying, "accept Jesus as your savior." "For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16. Mildred was a strong lady. When finding out she had cancer in early March, she accepted it and took one day at a time, saying this was part of life. The cancer caused her great pain, and shortly before her death she said, "I would rather die and go on to be with Jesus" than continuing to suffer. The Lord was merciful and took her Home in the wee morning hours of May 16, 1998. Her loss has left a void and empty place in our hearts, but we know that our loss is Heaven's gain, and that she is praising the Lord even now. We love you and miss you so much.
Your loving husband and children

KING, GRIGGS
As I write the eulogy of my loving Daddy, it is very clear that no words could ever describe this remarkable person. Daddy was born on July 16, 1907, being 90 years, 5 months, and 27 days of age at his time of passing. He was the son of the late Wilson and Patanna King. He was preceded in death by his mother and father and his beloved wife, to whom he was married for more than 62 years, Ethel Hall King. He was also preceded in death by his son, Byron Glenn King. He is survived by two sons, Ollie James King, and Jimmy King; four daughters: Lois Jean Shockey, Doris Marie Waddles, Phyllis Ann Hall, and Carolynn Sue Gayheart; one brother Albro King; seventeen grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. There are many vivid images that come to mind when I think about Daddy. One of the most vivid is that of Daddy sitting on the sofa reading his Bible with only a dirn lamplight burning. We often wondered and asked how he could read his book without the aid of glasses. His only response was, "The Lord will always provide a way!" I can honestly say that Daddy lived his life according to the words he read in that almighty book. When asked to describe Daddy each family member came up with their own special words. Daddy meant many things to many people, but above all he was a loving father, nurturing grandfather, and caring neighbor. Daddy had a special relationship with each of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. No matter who came to see him, he always had a considerate smile and a special laugh to greet them with. Daddy left us with one important life lesson, and that is the importance of family. Daddy spent his life working as a postal carrier, store owner, and farmer, all for the benefit of his family. He has served as a role model for all who knew him. On January 13, 1998, Daddy made his final journey. I believe with all my heart that Daddy has gone home to be reunited with Mommy and Byron. If we could see him now, I am sure he would have a big smile on his face. Daddy, we will always love you and treasure the times we spent with you.

LAWSON, ROY JUNION
With a broken heart and many precious memories, I will try to write this obituary of my loving father, Roy Jr. Lawson. He was born on April 17, 1947, to Sylvia and the late Leroy Lawson at Price Ky. He departed for this world at 1:10 a.m. on August 30, 1998. At the age of 18, he married the love of his life, Cathie Ann Little. Upon this marriage, God blessed them with four children who were most dear to his heart: Clyde Lee, Crista Lynn, Cindy Ann and Steven Keith, all of Price. In 1983, Dad confessed his love to a far more precious love than Cathie, our Lord, Jesus Christ. Dad made his home at Pilgrim's Rest Church, and was ordained a deacon. In 1994, the Lord put it on his heart to take his letter to the Little Nancy Church, which he loved with all his heart.Dad loved everyone he came in contact with. He often told us to always make a lasting impression on anyone you meet. Dad was a gentle and kind-hearted man who loved all family, friends and the church. So, I only have one thing to say to my brothers and sister: follow in Dad's footsteps with me and Mom, choose the Lord, for he is our dad's keeper and we can see Dad again and live forever. That's what Dad wanted.
Written by your beloved daughter and sister in the Lord, Sister Cristy Lewis

LITTLE, JOHN HENRY
It is with great sadness and heartache that I will try to write the obituary of a man so dear to all who knew him. Daddy was an inspiration to all of his family. Daddy helped each and every one of us as much as he could. He taught us so many things, the joys of life, how to survive, to love one another, to stick together, and to take care of each other. Daddy loved his family very much, and loved to have his family around him all the time. Daddy was born to Henry and Wyomia Tackett Little on September 19, 1937. On July 29, 1997, Jesus decided that Daddy was finished with his work here on earth, and took Daddy home, making his stay here on earth 59 years, 10 months, and 10 days. Daddy is preceded in death by his father, Henry, his mother, Wyomia, and his baby sister, Ernestine Little. Just remember that they are only sleeping until Jesus comes to take them home to live with him in Heaven. Daddy married our Mommy (Helen Gean Dorton) December 22, 1961, and unto this union were born 6 children, five daughters and one son: Linda Jesensky, Mims, Fla.; Johnny Little, Collins Hwy., Ky.; Laura Yates, Hopkins Fork (Caney), KY, Tonda Cline, Mims, Fla.; Ellen Hagerman, Lig., Ind.; and Brenda Newsome, Weeksbury, KY. Daddy loved Mommy very much. Daddy and Mommy were inseparable. Everything they did, they did together. They loved each other more than any other couple that I have ever known. Daddy joined The Elizabeth Old Regular Baptist Church on April 5, 1986 and then later came to The Caney Creek Old Regular Baptist Church. There he remained until Jesus called him home. Daddy loved to go to church and hear the word of God. Daddy tried to go to church as much as possible, but sometimes his health was so bad he had to stay home. Daddy would always tell us that if we wanted to be in Heaven with him someday, we had better make everything right with the Lord, for that would be the only way we would be with him forever. Daddy not only leaves his wife and children to grieve, but 12 grandchildren, 5 step-grandchildren, 3 brothers, 3 sisters, and many family and friends. His three brothers are: Willis Little, Lloyd Little, and Donlin Little, all of Michigan. They are three wonderful people who would always put a smile upon Daddy's face. His sisters are: Georgia Little, Mich., Barbara Nixon, Florida, and Carolyn Hamilton, Besty Layne, KY, three precious people who would put their lives on hold to do anything that they could for Daddy. Thank you all so very much for being so good to Daddy, You all will always have a special place in my heart. Daddy, it's so hard to go to bed and then wake up each day, knowing that you won't be stopping by, or I can't call you for the answers to help me with the problems in my life. But Daddy, I know you're at rest in God's arms now, where there is no more suffering or pain. We feel so empty and alone without you, but because of you we can be strong, love each other, and stay together, until it is time for us to be together in Heaven. Daddy, it is so lonely here without you, I don't know how I can go on, I miss you more and more with each passing day. Daddy, I love you very much and you will always be in my heart and thoughts. I hope that someday I will be in Heaven with you.
Written by your lonely and broken-hearted daughter, Laura Yates

LITTLE, MARGIE DANIELS
Margie passed from this life on earth on May 29, 1998. Our mom prayed for and got the greatest blessing from God that anyone could have received. Margie was born to Ruben and Dora Anderson Hall in November, 1916. She was just a young girl when she married our father, Arnollis (Noll) Daniels from Johnson County Kentucky. Mom and Dad had seven children, one daughter and six sons: Barbara Sue Daniels, Arnollis Daniels Jr, James H. Daniels, Billy R. Daniels, Donald C. Daniels, Hollis E. Daniels and David L. Daniels. Margie became a widow in January 1950, when our father was killed while working in the coal mines at Wheelwright, Kentucky. Later, Mom married Marshall Little and lived at Bevinsville, Kentucky. Marshall passed away in 1984. Mom was blessed that she did not have to bury any of her children. Mom was in good health all of her life, and was very much blessed to live to be over 81 years old. On May 29,1998, after a visit to the doctor, Mom came home and lay down on her couch, put her feet up and went to sleep.
Written in love and respect by her son, Hollis E. Daniels

MARTIN, JUSTIN DANIEL
Justin Daniel Martin, 13, son of Danny Lee and Debbie K. Hall Martin of Teaberry, Kentucky, passed away Sunday December 8, 1996, in St. Jude Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Born to his parents September 16, 1983, at 2:37 at Pikeville Methodist, Justin was an honor student, member of the Beta Club, and basketball player for the Mustangs at Stumbo Elementary School. He was on the training league at Betsy Lyane and member of the Case Knife Club. Justin left behind a host of family and friends who loved him truly. Now they are very troubled, sad, and lonely, wondering "why?" Justin's family and friends of the community were blessed to have had the privilege to know him these 13 years. Bubby never met a stranger. He enjoyed life and conquered whatever he desired without strife. Bubby loved his family so very much. He was more concerned about his family then himself. Justin was a fine young gentleman. In addition to his parents, he left behind grandparents, Edgar and Verbal Martin of Teaberry, and Bill and Genevieve Hall of Grethel; uncles, Eddie Martin and BoJo Martin of Teaberry, Peanut (Ottis) Hall of Grethel; aunts: Linda McClanahan, Brenda Mitchell, Debbie Henson Martin of Grethel Vickie Blackburn of Pikeville, Ky., and a host of family and friends.  We as family, friends and classmates are still suffering that terrible pain, we pray no others have to experience. Our hearts are ripped out and minds are troubled. Laughter, friendship, and love are the definition of Justin. Bubby, we will never go through a day without your memories with us.
Written by his loving family

MARTIN, THOMAS CHESTER
With sad and lonely hearts, we try to write this obituary of a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, who is greatly missed in our home. Chester was born June 22, 1917, at Wales, Ky., the son of Jonah and Anna Osborne Martin. He was the second of five children. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, two sisters, Hester May, and Genevieve Barnes, one brother, Jesse B. Martin. His sister, Vanira Moore of Indianapolis, IN, passed away September 15, 1998. Chester married his wife of fifty years, Pearl Damron, on May 23, 1947. They spent their entire married life on Indian Creek. Unto this union was born one daughter, Rebecca Anna Smith. Chester is survived by his wife and daughter, one grandson, Gary Thomas Smith, son-in-law, Gary D. Smith, and a host of nieces and nephews, plus many friends. Chester joined the Elizabeth Old Regular Baptist Church at Ford's Branch in 1991. He loved to attend church there and at Enterprise Church on Indian Creek. He would always say, "They sure had a good meeting today." Chester served his country during World War II from 1941-1946 in the European Theater. During this time he was missing in action behind the German lines for nine days. God brought him and his comrades to safety, for a reason I'm sure. He was also a Mason and Shriner for twenty-five years. He loved to work for the Burn Institutes and Children's Hospitals. We mourn the loss of Chester, but we are consoled in knowing he enjoyed life for almost eighty years. He always seemed happy and met everyone with a smile and a friendly word. He loved the company of the many visitors he had during the last six years of his life, when he was so sick after having brain surgery. During the last week of his life, when he couldn't speak or move very much, he would look up and raise his arms and hands as high as he could. I feel that he was getting glimpses of the beautiful place he was traveling to, his "Beulah Land." When we meet again, he won't be almost blind or deaf, but he'll have a perfect body. There'll be no more pain and suffering in that glorious new home.
Written by his loving family

MARTIN, TILDA
Tilda Ellis Martin went to be with her Lord Wednesday, December 18, 1996, at the McDowell Appalachian Regional Hospital, McDowell, Kentucky. Tilda Ellis Martin, born May 20, 1928, in Logan County, West Virginia, was the daughter of the late Lonnie Ellis and Lizzie Ellis. She was one of three children. Her surviving sister, Mary Ellis Dempsey, resides at Middleport, Ohio, with her husband, Robert Dempsey. Tilda was married to Joe Martin of Hueysville, Ky., in 1945. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Joe Martin; one son, James Edward Martin; daughter-in-law, Kim H. Martin; two grandchildren, James Edward Martin, Jr. and Joe Martin II, residing in Cape Coral, Florida; and by several nephews and nieces in Logan, West Virginia. Tilda and Joe Martin were members of the Stone Coal Regular Baptist Church at Garrett, Ky. Tilda was laid to rest at 1:00 p.m. December 21, 1996, at Davison Memorial Gardens, Ivel, Kentucky.

MAYNARD, KELLY
I will write the obituary of my husband, Kelly Maynard. He was the son of Grundy and Ella Maynard of Pikeville, Ky. He was born February 27, 1923, and passed away September 14, 1997. Brain cancer took him away. He really wasn't much trouble while he was sick. He was only bedfast about three or four days. He worked in the coal mines at age 15, and went to World War II at age 18. He came home from the war and a few days later was in Pikeville walking down the street and came into a small restaurant where I was. I looked around and saw this very tall, dark, and really good-looking man. A friend of my sister knew him and introduced him to me. I walked out with my sister, Edna, and Kelly yelled to me that he was going that way, too. I slowed down and he walked with me. We came to this little place where people went to get their picture made. He asked me to have my picture made with him. I did and that is the picture I have put in here. I only knew him for a few minutes when we made the picture. He took me home, and a month later we were married. Two weeks later I began to think I had made a bad mistake, because he loved to stay like he was still not married. One child after another came, and we had seven sons. Kelly didn't get any better for 35 years. He was one of the worst fathers and husbands anyone could have, but our sons made up for their dad; they were so good to me, and each other, and still are: Donnie, Joseph and Robbie of Gainesboro, Tenn., David of Norwalk, Ohio, Boyd T. of Sandusky, Ohio, James of Betsy Layne, Kentucky and Daniel of Olive Hill, Kentucky. I also live in Olive Hill. Kelly also worked on river boats and in factory work. The good part is this almost worthless man surprised his mother and all of us and turned his life over to our Lord. He was sorry he wasted so many years of his life and was so different the rest of his life. He joined the Little Bethel Church in Greensprings, Ohio and lived in that church the last 16 years of his life and let us know he was so sorry. He had a really sweet dream about a month before he left us. He said an angel came and got him by the hand and took him to Heaven to see his new home. He told me how pure Heaven was. He said over and over, it is pure love there, pure love, better love there than we can love anyone here. He was so happy to tell me this dream. There was more to the dream but I picked the part he repeated the most. We all miss you, Kelly, but we all are so glad you saw your new home and gave your life to our Lord when you did.
We love you, wife, Opal, children and family

MCCOWN, MABEL TACKETT
With deep sorrow and loving memories, we write this obituary of our loving mother, Mabel McCown. She was born March 10, 1924, in Floyd County, Kentucky. She was the daughter of the late Duran and Emma Tackett and the late Lena Cook Tackett. She deceased this life in March 11, 1998, at the age of 74, after an extended illness. She married at the age of 21 on October 17, 1945 to Forres McCown, who preceded her in death. They had five children: Eddie Dean McCown from Huntington, Ind.; Sharon Lynn Price, Wabash, Ind.; Emma Lou Bryant, Hopkinsville, Ky.; Jackie Paige, Melvin, Ky.; she was preceded in death by her fifth child, Elizabeth Ann McCown. There are five grandchildren. She had nine brothers and sisters: Homer Tackett, who preceded her in death; Loraine Brown, Dayton, OH; Helen Tackett, Herbert Tackett, and Carol Sue Taylor, New Boston MI.; Faye Vance and Linda Dennis, Huntington, Ind.; Bobby and Lonnie Tackett, Melvin, Ky.  Mother retired from Melvin Grade School after working there for over fifteen years as a cook. She was loved and missed by the children whom she served during those years. She never joined a church, but she knew in her heart that she was going to Heaven, because she got down on her knees after the loss of her child and asked God to give her peace and understanding, so she could go on. When she got up, she knew she would see Liz again. We have no doubt that she is with Liz and Daddy now, walking the streets of gold described in Rev. 21:21. Mother is missed by her family and friends, but we know she is in a better place. May she now rest in peace with her husband and child.
Written by her children

MOORE, ARTIS
With a sad and aching heart, I will try to write an obituary of my dear husband. Artis Moore of Garrett, Kentucky, was born July 1, 1915, and departed this life on December 16,1997, making his stay here on earth 82 years, 5 months, and 15 days. Artis was the son of the late Harry Lee Moore and Ida Moore. On November 4, 1938, he married Versa Mae Hall. Theirs was a special relationship because they only had each other to love and cherish. He lived to see their 59th wedding anniversary. They were very happy years. He was a loving husband and faithful companion. Although both of them loved children, they were never blessed to have any of their own. Artis worked many years in the coal mines. He was a retired coal miner. His death resulted from lung disease caused by his work in the mines. The last time I ever saw him walk, he managed to get out of bed and make his way to a chair, saying "I've got to get off this oxygen and learn to walk again so I can be baptized." He gave his heart to the Lord and his hand to the Old Regular Baptist Church on October 29, 1995. Although he was never physically able to be baptized, I believe he was baptized by the Holy Spirit. I am confident he is at rest with the Lord Jesus. All the words in the world could never express how much I miss him and how deeply I loved him. My home is not a home anymore. It is just a place to stay. I ask the Lord to help me bear the pain each day, and I know he is with me. I want to thank everyone who helped and is helping me in my time of need. I will always need your prayers and your company.
Written by his broken hearted wife, Mae Moore

Rest on Artis till we meet again
One sweetly solemn thought
Comes to me o'er and o'er;
I am nearer home today
Than I ever have been before.

MULLINS, BUFORD
It is with a sad and aching heart that we write this obituary of our dear and loving dad and husband, Buford Mullins. Dad was born in Dickenson County, Virginia to Patton and Elizabeth Mullins on December 9, 1909, and died November 14, 1997, making his stay on this earth 87 years, 11 months and 5 days. As far back as we can remember, Dad was an inspiration to all who knew him. Dad joined and was baptized into the Mount Olive Old Regular Baptist Church in Dickenson County, Va. In 1961 he moved his membership to the Little Ettie Church and became a Deacon the following year. Through the years he has remained steadfast to his faith. Dad was married on June 9, 1934 to Alpha Yates, and to this union were born 7 boys and two girls, sons: Cad; Jerry, and Kelsie of Michigan, Gannon of Virginia, Jay, James Alger and Buford Ray of Ohio; daughters: Janice Remines, Virginia and June Rinehart of Ohio. All children are still living. There are 22 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. Dad had 5 brothers and 5 sisters. The brothers who preceded him in death are: Spurlock, Calvin, Tony, and Carrell Mullins. The sisters who preceded him in death are: Velvie Hill, Vesta Rakes, Martha Vanover, and Nancy Sykes. One brother, Alex Mullins, and one sister, Ruby Deel, are still living. In the lonely years to come we can be thankful that we are part of this close knit family whose central figures have been Mom and Dad, and whose guiding light is still burning bright for us to follow.
Written by his loving wife and children

MULLINS, NOBLE AND ESTA
It is with much sadness that I attempt to write an obituary of my father and mother, but I have put it off long enough. Though sad, there is still a happy side also, for I believe that they are in a pleasant rest with our Lord in Heaven. Dad and Mom were married in Clintwood, Virginia, June 28, 1955. Their marriage resulted in the birth of five children: Sondra, Timothy, Keith, Mechelle, and Dawn, who preceded them in death; 12 grandchildren: Joseph, Melissa, Amy, Jeremy, Timothy, Christopher, Shelina, Stacy, Stephan, Evan, Kassandra and Alec; 2 great-grandchildren, Peyton and Delilah, with one more on the way. Dad is also survived by five brothers and five sisters, while three brothers preceded him in death. Mother is survived by three brothers and one sister - a sister seemingly more than a sister. These two wonderful people have had so many great things said about them. It is hard to believe sometimes that we were blessed with such wonderful parents, but we were, and thank God for that. Dad passed away December 23, 1997, at his home that he built himself, after a long fight with cancer, at the age of 63. God called Daddy home and he was ready now to go, and blessed us all with a wonderful testimony before he left. Mother was called home March 10, 1998, also after a long, fight with cancer. She also wanted to stay at the home that I should say they both built. The morning of her last day with us she called us all together to tell us that God had called her home and that she should pray that His will be done. She did, and that night she went on to be forever with the Lord. With an invitation like that, it helps us in our time of sadness to know of these things. Of their lives we can't begin to say enough. Both born in Kentucky, Dad later moving to Jackson, Ohio, but the mountains could not keep them apart. Being married in Virginia and starting their family in South Shore Kentucky, they later moved to Indiana, then in 1973 back to Jackson, Ohio to be close to family. They were two good, kind, considerate, loving parents, doing the best they knew how to do, desiring to live a pleasing life unto God, always ready to give in the time of need or lend a helping hand. By the light left hanging in the window. I am sure that many a seed was sown by their lives. Daddy said before he left that it's not always what we say, but what we show - I believe he was right, for I think that we see more than we hear. Dad and Mom loved the simple things in life, a good garden, a nice, warm fire in the winter, and a good visit on the front porch. Thinking back of the old porch swing and the wonderful visits by brothers and sisters in the flesh and in the Lord, oh, if that old porch swing could talk! They loved to talk of the old days when it seemed people took more time to care and worked and appreciated things more than we do today. I find myself looking back to those days more and more. My hope is that one would not pity us, but when they read this, that it would stir their heart and mind to the reality of life and death, that one writer wrote your life. It is even but a vapor that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. We did not know that Dad and Mom would have to go so soon, but really none of us do know these things. Thank God they called on Him that was able to save them. I believe the stones they laid up while here will cause many to inquire into their lives. Dad and Mom were members of the Old Regular Baptist Church which is called Little Ettie in Beaver, Ohio. Their smiling faces are in a picture on the back wall with many other saints that have gone on. As I close, a tear and a smile appear at the same time for I miss them oh, so much more than I thought one could miss someone, but at the same time joy in my heart for the Hope that they had of Eternal Life. And some day we can go to be with them, for ever and ever!
Written by their son, Tim Mullins

MUNCY, EMMA HALL
By the help of God we will try to write the obituary of Emma Hall Muncy. She was born April 21, 1895, at Wheelwright, Kentucky, and passed away September 16, 1996, making her stay on earth 101 years, 5 months, and 16 days. She was preceded in death by her husband, Matt Muncy, August 1960, and 1 daughter, Nadine, in September, 1993. She leaves 1 son, Espie Muncy of St. Louis, Mo., 4 Grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren to mourn her passing. She was a sister of Rose of Sharon Old Regular Baptist Church, and was faithful to come as long as she was able. She was a member for over 60 years, and a shining light to the world. She always had a sweet smile for everyone.  Leona Miller took care of her until she became disabled and was unable to care for her. Her son, Espie, and his wife took care of her for the last few years of her life. He was good to bring her to church when she was able to come. She was blessed to come for Sacrament in July before she died in September. She was very feeble, but was blessed to clap her hands with joy and praise her Lord. She preached her own funeral by her daily walks of life. We all miss her at church. We hope, by the help of God, we will meet her in Heaven, where parting will be no more.
Written by Elder Lee Fields and his wife, Martha

NEWSON, DELTA GIBSON
Delta Gibson Newsome, the daughter of Ezekial and Crissey (Gibson) Gibson was born May 7, 1907, at Mousie, Kentucky. She was married to Orbie Newsome, who preceded her in death. Unto this union were born six children. Two preceded her in death, Rudy Valley as a baby, and her son, Estill. Surviving are two sons, Ralph Newsome of Dayton, Ohio, and Nevada Newsome of Phoenix, Ariz.; two daughters, Pauline Tabak of Cincinnati, Ohio and Clara Dressler of Mechanicsburg, Pa.; three brothers, Carl Gibson of Mousie, Ky., Ezekial Gibson of Hamilton, Ohio, and Kendall Gibson of Michigan; five sisters: Della Adkins of Allen, Virgie Caudill and Emily Wright of Mousie, Louise Greer of Hindman, and Jane Carol Zoke of Stongsville, Ohio; 10 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She was a member of Mount Sterling Old Regular Baptist Church for 60 years. She loved her church and all the churches she attended until she couldn't go anymore because of her health. She liked those birthday parties they had every May at Mount Sterling. Mom loved her brothers and sisters in the church. She made beautiful quilts and was always wanting to help others. She volunteered at Our Lady of the Way Hospital and kept everybody on their toes. I know now that your small, frail body no longer needs help, because you stand by the Great Master's side. Mom went to be with God on January 25, 1997, and she is missed by everyone who knew her.
Written by her daughter-in-law, who loved her very much

NEWSOME, EARL DENVER
Earl Denver Newsome was born to Noah and Elsie Osborne Newsome on December 6, 1926. He was the third of four children. Myrtie, the youngest, passed away when she was a little child. Denver was an avid outdoorsman and hunter. He loved to raise good coon hounds and was known as an excellent dog trainer. He knew the woods of Eastern Kentucky like the back of his hand. He hunted with a lot of people, most of whom could not keep up with him. He passed this love of hunting on to his sons. Denver served in the navy during the second World War. Denver enjoyed the bachelor life until he was 28 years old. Then, he met a dark-haired, brown-eyed young woman who stole his heart - our mother, Faye Newsome. They were married for 40 years, until Mother passed away last year. Denver worked hard all of his life to provide for his family. There were hard times, but we never went hungry. Denver worked first in the mines and then for many years as a custodian for McDowell Schools. About 1983, our mother became seriously ill. Daddy cared for her from that time until she passed away. He was so good to her. Daddy was a member of The Old Regular Baptist for 23 years. He delighted in going to church and being with his brothers and sisters. He loved to read the Bible. When Daddy found out he had cancer, he said that he wanted to live, but that he wasn't afraid to die. Daddy passed away on August 18, 1998, from cancer. Only the Lord knows why Daddy had to suffer the way that he did. We believe that Daddy is happy now. We are so happy his pain and suffering have ended, but we will feel his loss daily. We will miss his smile and his jokes. We will miss the way he made everyone around him happy and comfortable. We will try to pass on his legacy to his grandchildren and their children. Denver is survived by his three children: Sheila Terry of Layton, UT, Denver Newsome of McDowell, Ky., and James Newsome of Wellington, OH. He leaves behind two wonderful sisters, Opal Kinney and Alma Tackett, both of McDowell, KY, seven grandchildren and four step-grandchildren, as well as a host of relatives and friends. Daddy found the best of friends and neighbors in Elmer and Dorothy Stone. He loved them dearly, and we are so grateful for all the love and compassion they had for two lonely old people.
Written by his daughter, Sheila Terry

NEWSOME, JAY LEE AND ANNIE
I will try and write an obituary of my dad and mom, Jay Lee and Annie Newsome. Dad, the son of Daniel and Rhodina Newsome, was born on August 27, 1918. He got killed in a mining accident, one day before his 42nd birthday, on August 26, 1960, leaving to mourn their loss Mom and nine children, two of whom were married at the time. Mom remained a widow the rest of her life. Mom was the daughter of Wayne and Margret Elisabeth Hall. Mom was born December 3, 1917 and passed away October 11, 1997, making her stay on earth 79 years, 10 months and 8 days, over 37 years alone without Dad's companionship. They were very close, up until Mom's death, when we would talk about Dad the tears would flow down her cheeks. I believe they are in the paradise of God because of the life they lived and the testimony they told us children. The children are 3 boys and 6 girls: Clyde Newsome of Wolcottville Ind., Klinon and Arnold Newsome of Grethel KY., Phylistene Mitchell and Madeline Mitchell of Grethel KY. Neveline Blankenship of Wolcottville Ind. Charlene Hover and Emma Grace Emory of Warsaw, Ind., Ruthie Tuttle of Lagrange Ind. They had 30 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren, two of whom preceded Mom in death. There are many good things that come to my mind to write, but it would be too lengthy, so I will say to the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and all who might read this obituary, if you haven't made peace with God, when the spirit bids you pray, pray until God does forgive you and the burden is gone.
Written with a heart full of love, their son, Brother Klinon Newsome

NEWSOME, TILDA BITHA DAMRON
In loving memory of a wonderful wife and mother, Tilda B. (Damron) Newsome, who died December 15, 1977 in a car accident on her way to work. She was born on July 15, 1935, in Virgie, Kentucky to Allen and Melia Damron. She married Chester Newsome on November 23, 1953. In 1961 they moved to Albion, Michigan. She was a hard working woman at work and at home with her family on the farm. She enjoyed going to church, working in the garden, crocheting, sewing, cooking, baking, and most of all, she loved and enjoyed her family and friends. She always made everyone feel welcome in her home. She taught her children how to love and respect others, to be honest, hardworking, and how to pray, and the importance of a close family relationship.She left behind her a loving husband, Chester Newsome of Albion; a daughter, Greta; sons; Layne, Ricky, Lynn, all at home, and Rocky of Marshall; her parents, Allen and Melia Damron of Virgie, KY, brothers, Vernon, and Carlos Damron, of Virgie, KY; sisters: Mary Nancy Johnson, of Teaberry, KY and Rachel Brown and Meister Stewart, of Virgie, KY. She was preceded in death by a sister, Melia Lee Belcher, and two brothers. Although, she had no grandchildren at the time of her passing, she now has one granddaughter, Jessica Newsome, two grandsons, Aaron and Tucker Newsome, one step-granddaughter, Nicole Caudill, and another grandbaby on the way, And she would have loved and been proud of each and every one of them, and would have been a wonderful grandmother, just as she was a mother. Even though we miss her, her love and spirit we carry in our hearts each and every day. We love you Mom.
Your children, Greta, Rocky, Layne, Ricky, and Lynn, and loving husband, Chester

NICHOLS, ALLENE
Allene Howard Samons Nichols was born January 18, 1929, in Floyd County, Kentucky, She was the daughter of the late Earl and Emma Reed Howard. In early life, she married Raymond Samons and to this union there were two daughters, Cassandra Casson of Franklin and Joanna Nichols of Las Vegas. She has one son-in-law, Nathan E. Casson. In later life she married Green (Tom) Nichols. He had a daughter, Donna Nichols Collins, of Texas. She also had six grandchildren: Tracy Wentzel, Aaron Casson, Jason Casson, Gary Beam, Teresa Beam, and Tonya Beam. She also had three great-grandchildren, Jessica Wentzel, Christopher Wentzel, and Michael Wentzel. She passed away May 31, 1998 at her residence in Franklin, Ohio. She was a member of the Ball Branch Regular Baptist Church in Knott County, Kentucky. She had a wonderful caregiver, Bobbie Hineline, who cared for her in her last days. We wish to thank her. Her special grandson, David Ross, was very good to her. She had five brothers all deceased: Burton Howard of Mousie, Ky., Isadore Howard of Estill, Ky., Raymond Howard of Mousie, Ky., Norman Howard, Dema, Ky., and Dillard Howard of Martin, Ky. She had four sisters: Eldred Allen and Imma Jean Morris both deceased, Goldie Stewart of Cleveland, Ohio, and Donna Brown Kettering, Ohio. Children, if you want to see Mom again, get right with God and you to can be with the angels. May God bless you all, she loved all of you.
Her sister in Christ, Donnie Brown

NICKLES, BULAH (HICKS)
With prayerful and sad hearts, we will write an obituary of our mother and sister in the Lord, Bulah Nickles. Sister Bulah was born December 9, 1910, in Mousie, Kentucky, to the late Ballard Hicks and Ora (Wicker) Hicks. God blessed her to have a long life of 87 years in this world. On Friday, May 22, 1998, at the Hazard Appalachian Regional Hospital Sister Bulah departed this life down here to be with Christ up there, which according to Apostle Paul, is far better. Apostle Paul knew he would never be stoned, whipped, beaten, left for dead, or put out of any more synagogues again, but would be in the presence of God forever. Sister Bulah experienced some of the suffering that Apostle Paul did when she was denied fellowship with God's people in the church. On July 4, 1993, she was finally received in full love and fellowship at the Steel's Creek Old Regular Baptist Church and given the right hand of fellowship. She was also blessed to receive communion on the same day. Sister Bulah was a faithful member and servant of God until the end. Early in life Sister Bulah met and married Alex Wicker. To this union were born three children, two sons, Tee and Earl, who preceded her in death, and one daughter, Pearl Martin of Crittenden, KY. Later in her life, on December 25, 1937, Sister Bulah married Birt Nickles. To this union were born four children, one daughter, Pauline Chaffins of LaGrange, Oh., and three sons: Ancil of Plymouth, OH, Shannon of Wayland, KY, and Leslie Darrel of Kendallville, IN. In addition to her husband, parents, and two sons Sister Bulah was preceded in death by one brother, Huey Hicks, and one sister, Flossie Wicker. Besides her children, she is survived by three brothers: Curtis of Kendallville, IN, Ballard Jr. of LaGrange, Oh., and Roger of West Liberty, Ky.; two sisters, Lucy Moore of Kendallville IN, and Dorsie Patton of Eastern, KY; 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. We want to say to Sister Bulah's children and grandchildren, who don't know Jesus in pardon and remission of sins, if you look to Jesus in faith and are born again, you can be together again with your loved ones. The Lord will descend from Heaven with a shout and voice of an archangel, and her body, which is asleep in the Whitt Martin Cemetery, will hear and wake up a glorious, perfect, and eternal resurrected body. Sister Bulah will never have any more pain, for God will wipe all tears from her eyes. We who are alive and remain will be called up to be together with her in the clouds, for we will meet the Lord in the air to be with Him forever, never to have to depart from one another again.
Written by her family and Elder Hayes Chaffins

NICKLES, ESSIE SCHRADER
Essie Schrader Nickles, age 84, of Auxier, Kentucky, widow of Preston Schrader, passed away Monday, September 8, 1997, at the Riverview Manor Nursing Home, Prestonsburg, Ky., following a long illness. She was born October 6, 1912, in Dema Ky., the daughter of the late Elbert and Betty Little. Mrs. Nickles was a homemaker and a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church for 50 years. Survivors include four sons: Kelly Schrader of Willard, Ohio, Eddie R. Schrader of Auxier, Ky., Jim Schrader of Jeffersontown, Ky., Bill Schrader of Plymouth, Ohio; and two daughters, Betty Mosley of Shelby, Ohio, and Mary Simmons of Shelbyville, Ky. She is also survived by two sisters, Lula Bates of Pikeville, Ky., Lona Green of Thelma, Ky., and 17 grandchildren.
By the family

OSBORNE, LONA YOUNCE
Our mother, Lona Younce Osborne, whom we loved so very much, passed away on April 22, 1998. Our mother gave her heart to the Lord March 23, 1998. Mother is in Heaven, taking care and watching over all her loved ones. Besides being a wife, a mother, and most of all a grandmother, she was a nurse at Virgie Community Hospital, which was located where Dr. Soward's clinic is now at Virgie, Kentucky. She was also a nurse at the Pikeville Methodist Hospital when it was first opened at Pikeville, Kentucky. Our mother was a very special person; if you didn't have the opportunity to know her, then you missed something special in your life. We all miss her so very much. One day we will see her again in Heaven. What a wonderful day that will be. We all miss you, Mommy.
Your daughters, Nora Lynn and Tippy

OSBORNE, OSCAR
It is with great sadness and deep sorrow that I write the obituary of my precious father, Oscar Osborne. He was born October 24, 1907 in Floyd County, Kentucky, the son of Andrew Jackson Osborne and Katie Elswick Osborne. Both preceded him in death. He was married to Sophronia Gilliam September 29, 1926, making their lives together 71 and a half years. To this union were born two sons, Oscar Eugene and Albert J. Osborne. Oscar Eugene preceded him in death. Eugene's wife, Velma, and son, Billy, also preceded Dad in death. Albert and his wife, Mary, live in Wilkesville, Ohio. Also surviving are one grandson, Alan Jeffrey Osborne of Wilkesville; one granddaughter, Belinda, Eugene's daughter, of Detroit, Michigan; one brother, Virgil, of Baltimore, Maryland; two sisters, Stella Justice of Virgie, Kentucky and Goldie of Detroit, Michigan. There is no way for words to express our love, and how we miss him. We will always remember Dad as one who loved people, and was loved by everyone who knew him. At his funeral all the ministers who took a part said he was the most humble man they ever knew. Dad passed away March 28, 1998, making his stay on earth 90 years, 5 months and 4 days. Words can not express how we miss him. Dad was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church, a deacon of the Enterprise Church of Indian Creek of Vigie, Kentucky. We believe with all our hearts he is just sleeping in peace and gone away with a friend, our Lord, Jesus Christ, to soon live again for ever and ever. 
Written by his son, Elder Albert J. Osborne

OWENS, WAYNE
It is with saddened hearts we write the eulogy of our beloved husband, father, and brother, Wayne Owens. On August 31, 1927, in Wayland, Kentucky, Wayne was born to Joel Owens and Molly Shepherd Owens. On April 30, 1998, he was called home to Heaven, making his stay on earth 70 years, 7 months and 29 days. On October 29, 1949, Wayne married Erma Jean Beverly, who became his best friend, companion, and mother of their four children: Paula Owens Crum, Kenneth Wayne Owens, Ronald Brent Owens and Trina Renee Conley, all of Mousie, Kentucky. Wayne is also survived by 5 grandchildren: Travis Wayne Owens, Patrick Dylan Owens, Chad Wayne Conley, Cody Wade Conley and Amanda Rheagan Owens; 2 brothers, Arthur Owens of Mousie, Kentucky and Jimmy Owens of Daytona, Florida; 3 sisters: Juanita Boleyn of Garrett, Indiana; Beretta Hayes of Garner, Kentucky and Joyce Childers of Mousie, Kentucky, and a host of nieces and nephews. Preceding Wayne in death were his parents, Joel and Molly Owens, and 1 sister, Geneva Patton. He was a member of the Ball Branch Old Regular Baptist Church. For most of his life, Wayne worked as a logger or in some form of woodworking. In many ways, his life reflects his work. In thinking of Wayne, we are reminded of his beloved oak tree, standing firm, straight and tall in his morals, beliefs and faith. Yet, as the branches of the tree would bend, often his arms were outstretched, his firm hands softened to help or comfort family, friends and neighbors in times of need. Of all the accomplishments in Wayne's life, the ones he was most proud of were his children. His eyes would literally shine with pride when he spoke of the fine individuals they have become and the precious gifts they had given him ... his beloved grandchildren. I wonder if he knew it was his love, wisdom and guidance over the years that made them who they are today. Dear husband, Daddy, Papaw, and neighbor, today, as we bid you a final farewell, know we loved you, we admired you, we respected you. and we will miss you, yet we will never forget you. You are and will always be our hero, our best friend.

PACK, MARY R.
With a lot of sadness in nature, but a blessed feeling in the spirit of the Lord, knowing where my Mom's new home is, forever to be with God, I will attempt to write this obituary for my mother, sister in the Lord, and good friend. Mary F. Martin Pack, 92, of Xenia and Columbus, Ohio, died Saturday, July 11, 1998, at a Columbus Care unit. She was a former resident of South Shore, Ky. She was born June 5, 1906 in Prestonsburg, Kentucky, Floyd County. She was the daughter of the late Permintis Martin and Isabell Hamilton Martin. At the time of her death, she was a member of The House of Prayer Church in Beaverereek, Ohio. Mother was born again when she was twenty-six years old. She was a good and faithful servant of God for sixty-six years. She could not count all the blessings that she received from Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, in sixty-six years. Mother retired from F.W. Means Co. In Portsmouth, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clifton Pack, October 11, 1976. Also preceding her in death were three brothers: Tramble Martin, Gardner Martin and Roosevelt Martin; two sisters, Abbie Martin Chapman and Eva Martin Riley. She is survived by three sons: Lorenzo D. Fugate and wife, Bernice, of Wyandot, Mi., Lovell W. Pack and wife, Helen, of New Port Richey, Fl., and James C. Pack and wife, Bonnie, of Columbus, Oh.; one daughter, Eva Jean Fugate St. John, and husband, Roger, of Xenia, Oh.; one sister, Verdi Frasure of Portsmouth, Oh.; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. To you who knew my Mom, remember her love and kindness toward everyone. The path of her good works is left in our memories. I called her the chairman of the board because she told us about Jesus. I love you Mom.
Written by her son, James C. Pack

RATLIFF, CLINT AND JANE
Mother, I promised you years ago that I would write the obituaries for you and Dad. With a broken heart, but with loving memories, I will attempt to keep my promise to you.Our lives are so lonely without Dad and Mom, we all miss them so much. Dad was born December 8, 1910, at Jackson, Ky. and passed away September 28, 1997. He was the son of the late Christopher and Vergie Ratliff. Mother was born March 29, 1916, in Pound, Va. and passed away December 6, 1997. She was the daughter of the late Silas and Navada Hubbard Boggs. Mom and Dad were married September 15, 1934, in Seco, Ky. To this union were born five children: Navada Edwards, Centerville, Tn., Lorretta Smith, Pierceton, In., James Clint Ratliff, Pierceton, In. (deceased), Rosemary (died in infancy), and Kenneth Lee (died in infancy). They have 9 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Mom and Dad were faithful members of the Old Regular Baptist Church for over forty years. They were members of Northern Little Dove Old Regular Baptist Church, where he was a Deacon. Mom and Dad's lives were a life of love for their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and love for their church. They loved the simple things in life, their family gathered around the dinner table, their church family visiting and going around with them to visit all their churches. They taught us what was right and wrong, and for each of us to go in our own ways and our beliefs and to always let our families and God come first in our lives. They had so many faithful brothers and sisters in church. These wonderful friends were by them until the end, especially J. C. and Kay Napier (our family can never thank them enough), Mr. and Mrs. Autie Puckett, Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Ousley, Mr. and Mrs. Dudley Rowe, and many others. We will never forget all the wonderful ladies who helped care for them at their home. Although we have to say goodbye to Mom and Dad for awhile, we are so glad we have such loving memories of them, two beautiful people who were given to us to love and guide us. We shall meet you again.
Written by their daughter, Navada Edwards

REAMS, FANNIE HUNTER WICKER
Fannie Reams was born in the Knott County District of Rock Fork near Garrett, Kentucky, on December 22, 1909. She was the fifth child of eleven born to Dan and Julie Hunter. Fannie passed away to be with her Lord and Savior on May 19, 1998, at the home of her daughter Earlie Higgins, near Margengo, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dan and Julie Hunter, seven brothers and three sisters. Also preceding her were her first husband, Bill Wicker, who was shot and killed in March, 1940, after 14 years of marriage and three children; son, Worley, who died in 1985; and infant son, Sam, who died at less than one year of age. Fannie remarried later to Walter Reams, who passed away in 1969. Fannie is survived by her daughter, Earlie Wicker Higgins, and son-in-law, Carlos Higgins, of Marengo, Ohio; daughter-in-law, Geneva Reynolds Wicker, wife of Worley, of Wabash, Indiana; 2 stepchildren, James Reams of Stevenson, Alabama, and Betty Jo Reams McAllister of Fayetteville, Tennessee. Also surviving are 9 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, 5 step-great-grandchildren, and 1 step-great-great-grandchild. Fannie is remembered for having a small store and restaurant across the road from the Stumbo Memorial Hospital at Lackey, Kentucky. This was during the late 1930's with her first husband, Bill Wicker, where he was shot and killed in 1940. Fannie later married Walter Reams, and lived there until the late 1950's. She was known and remembered for her helping hand and open heart to her many friends in the area. Fannie, divorced from Walter Reams, ended up at Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, living there until 1992. She then moved to Marengo, Ohio, to live near her daughter, Earlie. While in the Mt. Sterling area, she attended the Mt. Sterling Old Regular Baptist Church regularly, and while in Ohio she was attending the Little Ruth Baptist Church near Marengo, and the Old Reaular Baptist Church at Wyandott, Ohio, until her health prevented her from going. Almost two weeks before she passed on to meet her Lord, the Little Ruth congregation met at Fannie's bedside and held their services there in her daughter's home. Following this meeting, she declared to everyone that she was "ready to go home," and a few days later she did that. In the picture with her is her 5-year-old great-grandson, Kendall Jasen Coffman, to whom she was totally devoted and loved dearly. He lived next door and was the last person with whom Fannie spoke, just prior to her falling into a coma and passing on.She is greatly missed and still loved by family and many friends.
Written by daughter and son-in-law, Earlie and Carlos Higgins

REFFETT, THECKLA
Theckla Click Reffett went to be with the Lord November 25, 1996, at her home in Belleview, Florida, at the age of 85 years and four months, following a long illness. She was the daughter of the late James B. Click and Lula Prater Click. She was born May 21, 1911, at Langley, KY. She had one brother, Thurmal Click, of Langley, KY., also preceding her in death. Surviving her is one sister, Thurla A. Ramey, of Belleview, Florida; two nephews, Glen Ramey and Stanley Ramey, of Alexandria, KY; One grand-nephew, Timothy Ramey, also of Alexandria, KY. She was a graduate of Maytown High School and Tri-State School of Cosmetology, Portsmouth, Ohio. She spent part of her adult life operating a beauty shop at Maytown. She was married to Sanford Reffett in 1963, who preceded her in death on April 4, 1996. She has been a resident of Summerfield and Belleview, Florida for the past 26 years. She was a member of the Southern Home Regular Baptist Church at Stark, Florida for the past 15 years. She was laid to rest beside her mother and father at Davidson Memorial Gardens, Ivel, Kentucky.

ROBINSON, GOLDIE
Deep down in our hearts there remains a picture of one so near and dear to us, and although she is gone to be with the angels, she still lives on in our memories. Goldie was born December 11, 1913, to the late William and Matilda Newsome. In April, 1931, she was united in marriage with Mack Robinson. This loving union was blessed with six children. She answered God's call and chosen to become a member of Caney Creek Old Regular Baptist Church, where she faithfully attended as long as she was able. She is preceded in death by one son, four grandsons, and one great-grandson. Besides her husband, Goldie is survived by two sons, Arlyn Robinson and Raymond Robinson, both of Caney Highway, and three daughters: Blanche Roberts and Willie Ann George, both of Bookerfork Road, and Thelma Bowling of Caney Highway. She is also survived by one brother, Chris Newsome of Bookerfork Road, 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and a host of family and friends. Matthew 25:35 states "For I was an hungered and ye gave me meat. I was thirsty and ye gave me drink. I was a stranger and ye took me in." Mam's door was always open and her table was spread with food and love for all those who entered her home. She was known as Mam not only to her grandchildren, but to all those who knew and loved her. Her love will forever live in our hearts, and we are thankful to God for blessing us with her presence.

SAMONS, IVERY PAUL 10/19/23 To 1/15/98
It is with a sad and very broken heart that I will try to write an obituary of a dearly beloved husband, father and grandfather. Ivery Samons was born October 19, 1923, at Dana, Ky., to the late Grover and Virgie Samons. He departed from this life on January 15, 1998, after a fall in which he broke 8 ribs and punctured his lungs. He lived for three days before he died at the Highlands Regional Hospital at Prestonsburg. He leaves behind to mourn her loss his wife, Nell Boyd Samons, whom he married on April 17, 1948. Unto this union were born two sons, Myrl Travis Samons of Gallipolis, Ohio and Monroe Samons of Prestonsburg, Ky. We were blessed with four grandchildren. One preceded him in death, Jeremy Paul, in September 1984, leaving three grandchildren: Gregory Samons, Glen Travis Samons and Shonia Michele Samons Chaffins, to mourn their loss. He also leaves two brothers, Hezzie Samons of Banner, Ky. and Norman Samons of Florida, and one sister, Oma Conn, of Indiana. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Dovie Boyd and Clara Conn. Ivery was a good provider and good husband. He worked at many different jobs. Ivery served in the armed forces from 1943 to 1946. He was with Columbia Gas for 21 years before he was forced to early retirement by sickness. Ivery joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on May 19, 1979, where he was a deacon of the Little Salem Church of Dana, and was a faithful member until his passing. Ivery and I were married almost 50 years, and were well blessed to spend our time together. I could go on and on with great things he did, but the best thing, I feel, is that he is resting with Jesus in Paradise, and will never have any more sickness or accidents.
Written with all my love, his broken-hearted wife, Nell Samons

SHEPHERD, GOBLE
Goble Shepherd, age 83, of Gunlock, Kentucky, died Tuesday, August 2, 1994,at Highlands Regional Medical Center in Prestonsburg, Kentucky. He was born June 25, 1911, at Gunlock Kentucky, the son of the late Harrison and Sarah Casebolt Terry Shepherd. Goble was a retired coal miner and a forty-six year member of the Philadelphia Regular Baptist Church at Brush Creek. Survivors are his wife, Bertha Shepherd; three sons: Luther Shepherd of Gunlock, Kentucky, Ollie J. Shepherd of Kendallville, Indiana, and Willie Goble Shepherd of Pierceton, Indiana; six daughters: Ruby Jean Howard, Wanda Lee Allen, Barbara Ann Shepherd, and Bonnie Mae Ingram, all of Gunlock, Kentucky, Lois Butcher of River, Kentucky, and Mary Lou Bradley of Claypool, Indiana; a brother, Gold Shepherd of Gunlock, Kentucky; 35 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Elwood Shepherd, of South Whitley, Indiana. Goble and Bertha worked hard to raise their children, often doing without many things to put food on the table and clothes on their children. Dad was a loving dad and proud of his children and their children. Often so soft hearted, he would cry at the simplest things. He loved his church, and would often talk about his home in Heaven. Dad, we miss you, but we know you are happy and free from pain, resting in the arms of your Lord. Written with love, your daughter, Barbara Shepherd

SHEPHERD, STELLA
Stella Hicks Shepherd, born July 5, 1915, passed away on June 1, 1998, at Highlands Regional Medical Center following a brief illness.Stella was the daughter of the late Ely and Mallie Conley Hicks. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lacy Shepherd, a son, Lloyd Ray Shepherd, and infant daughter, Clara Shepherd. She is survived by three sons and five daughters, the sons being: Donald Shepherd of Allen, Ky. Danny Wayne Shepherd and Jimmy Darrell Shepherd both of Garrett, Ky.; the daughters being: Lola Click and Linda Duff, both of Langley, Ky., Wava Turner of Garrett, Ky., Brenda Martin of Hueysville, Ky., Bonnie Smith of Hazard, Ky. Also surviving are 16 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and a host of other friends and relatives who will mourn her passing. Mamaw was baptized into Christ on May 8, 1949, and has been a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church since that date. She was an inspiration to all of those whose lives she touched daily. Mamaw had a strong belief in God, and her light shone to all of those who knew her. She always advised her children and grandchildren to seek and accept the Lord into their lives because He was the most important thing to her. By following her example we can all be with her in Heaven.If Mamaw could speak to us now, I'm sure that she would say something like this:

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rains.
When you awake in morning hush,
I am the swift unflinging rush
of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starshine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there. I did not die.

Written by Charletta and Alysia, granddaughters

SLONE, BENTON  08-11-1926 TO 03/23/1998
With the help of the Lord, I will try to write an obituary for my father, Benton Slone. Dad was born August 11, 1926, to Pierce and Tina Slone. Dad left this world for a better home on March 23, 1998, making, his stay on earth 71 years, 7 months and 12 days. Left to mourn his passina are his wife of 54 years, Mazie Slone, and eight children: Anna Lee Farley, Aileen Slone, Kermit Slone, Corbett Slone, Thelma Slone, James Slone, Adrian Slone, and Zella Sweeney. One child preceded him in death, as did both parents and one brother. Also left are five sisters, Artis Slone, Violet Francis, Fonnie Smith, Freda Schemezia, Lassie Slone, and one brother, Rufus Slone, 18 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, and many, many friends and relatives.  Dad worked hard all his life to raise his family and teach them the right values of life. One of the greatest lessons he gave was when he turned his life over to the Lord. It was in his own backyard, at a birthday party given by his children, that Dad accepted the Lord as his Savior. This led to his fellowship at the Hollybush Old Regular Baptist Church. Dad enjoyed his church so much and was so sad when his health began to fail to the point where he could not attend church regularly. Dad always told us to trust in the Lord and He would see us through. Dad not only talked the talk of a Christian, but he walked the walk, every day of his life, just as we are told by our Lord to do. Dad always said that he would die happy if only he could see his wife or one of his children come down the aisle and give their hand to the Church and their heart and soul to the Lord. Dad didn't ask for much out of life. He was a simple man and lived a simple life. You could always see him out in his overalls and with a smile on his face. Dad is missed by all who knew him, but most of all by his loving wife and children. I know that Dad is watching over us all today and his one desire is to see one of us give our hand to the church and fill his seat and follow in his footsteps. He laid the foundation and all that's left for his family to do is to follow him, and one day we will all meet again in Heaven. Sleep on, Dad, and we will see you soon.
Written by a broken hearted daughter, Thelma Slone

SLONE, ELDER FRANK
Frank Slone, the son of the late Lewis Slone and Elizabeth Slone, was born on March 24, 1926, in Knott County Ky., and died on January 16, 1997, making his stay on earth 70 years, 9 months, and 16 days at the time of death. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marie.  Frank was never blessed with any natural children of his own, but did raise a niece, whom he considered his own child, and her children as his grandchildren. He often made mention of them in his prayers. He was also survived by two brothers at the time of his passing, Coy Slone and Bruce Slone, both of Lexington, Ky. Frank was a retired laborer for the city of Lexington. He was also an able minister of the gospel, having his membership as an Elder with the Ball Branch Church in Knott County, Ky. His ministry also consisted of being Assistant Moderator of Ball Branch, Hollybush and Mt. Sterling Churches. He was a strong believer in the doctrine, and earned the respect of his brethren and followers of the church. He participated in many baptisms. At long last, after many years of illness, his body growing weak with age and sickness, God saw fit to call him Home. We truly feel that our loss is Heaven's gain.
Written by a brother in the Lord, Elder Ralph Howard

SLONE, BROTHER MARCO
It in with much sadness and a broken heart I will try to write the obituary of my darling husband, whom I got to keep for only seven short years. Marco was born on October 1, 1926 at Garner, Kentucky. He was the son of the late Callaway Slone and the late Nannie Slone. He departed this life following an extended illness at the U.K. Medical Center on Sunday, October 5. 1997. In life his occupation was that of a disabled farmer. He was a member of the Little Rock Church of Old Regular Baptist. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Dottie Mullins Slone, and is survived by his second wife, Mary Lou Cox Slone. We were married for only seven short, sweet years, still yet I miss him not having him home with me. He was always a very easygoing person as long as be was able to go. He always loved to go to church when be was able to go, and he hated to give up going to church, but he just got so weak that be had to stop going. He is survived by 5 sisters, who are: Loretta Slone, Vaudie Ward, Madie Slone, Mabel Cook and Cubie Johnson. He was preceded in death by one brother, Rush Slone. He never had any children of his own. He is survived by 9 step-grandchildren and 3 step-great-grandchildren and one stepson whom he raised as his own son, who is Gary Little of Weeksbury, Kentucky, and two stepdaughters, Aileen Ward of Indiana, and Geraldine Osborne of Wheelwright, Kentucky, and a second cousin whom he loved very much, Delmas Johnson. He will be missed by a host of relatives and friends who knew him and will mourn his passing.
Written by a lonely wife and sister-in-hope, Mary Lou Slone

A heart of love stopped beating
Blue shining eyes at rest
God took the rose of my life
He has taken the very best
The day He called you home.
My heart is sad and lonely without you
I still see your face and hear your voice
God knew you had to leave me
Although you didn't go alone
For part of me went with you
The day you were called home.

SPARKMAN, LILLIAN (DIDDIE)
With a sad and lonely heart I will try to write the obituary of my dear beloved sister, Lillian (Diddie) Sparkman. She was born April 18, 1927. She departed this life October 9, 1997 being 70 years old. She was the daughter of the later Elder Vansel and Sister Meredith Slone. Early in life she married Ishmell Sparkman. Unto this union were born 10 children. She had a host of grand- and great-grandchildren whom she simply adored. As a young girl still in her teens, she joined the Mt. Olive Church of the Old Regular Baptist at Pippa Passes, Kentucky. There she remained faithful until death. Diddie was one of the best mothers and grandmothers any child could ask for. She was also a loving and devoted wife, always preferring her family before everything. She weathered many storms in her life. I remember when her sons were in the armed forces so many miles from home, she prayed many prayers for them. Her faith in God was her comfort while they were away. There were all returned to her safely. Diddie loved people, especially the elderly ones. She worked many years in nursing homes. She got so attached to those she cared for she would talk about her experiences there, sometimes laughing and other times crying. I know she would have taken them all with her if she could have. She was so full of love and life, that's just the way she was. My sister was a talented writer. She wrote many poems, mostly about God, her family, and her many good friends. They were beautifully done, they reflected the warm and tender person she was. The last few years she lived she was not able to visit her family or church here in Kentucky. She had lived in Indiana for many years, but she still loved Kentucky and the Mt. Olive Church. She, is sadly missed by all. She had cancer and suffered a lot, I know, and her husband and children stood by her and did everything they could for her, but it was time for my Sissy to go home to be with God. She always told me to tell everyone to keep praying, but God's will be done. So to her children: I know you miss your Mom. So many times you want to call and share something with her, but she's gone to be with the angels. I hope all of you get God in your lives before it's too late. You can meet Mom again. So God bless each and every one of you, until we meet again.

SPEARS, LAURA JOHNSON
Life is like a circle, never stopping, only beginning. Many great and memorable people have passed through this earth. One such person was Laura Johnson Spears. Although she was only here for seventy-four years, she had a profound effect on the lives of everyone she knew. She taught us the truth and meaning of love, kindness, generosity and understanding. She always had open arms that comforted and soothed, loved unconditionally, and could take the hurt away. She was special and unique; the bright star that guided so many paths. Laura Johnson Spears was born October 21, 1914. She left this life February 23, 1989, making her stay on earth 74 years, 4 months and 2 days. She was married to the late Elmer Spears, this union brought forth nine children: Hobart (deceased), Aillene, Sherlene, Melvina, Buster (deceased), Russell, Annie (deceased), Barbara, and Mildred. She is survived by 39 grandchildren and 56 great-grandchildren. Her greatest accomplishments in life include her children, her association with God, and her membership in the Little Rock Old Regular Baptist Church. She gave her hand to Elder Bud Johnson to become a member on September 17, 1949, and was baptized the same day (Saturday) by Elder Bud Johnson, and was a faithful member until her death. It has been nine long years since her departure from this world. She will always be missed and never forgotten. Her memory is as constant as the sun in the sky and the water in the ocean. In the hearts of her loved ones she will remain until eternity and beyond. Surely goodness and mercy had followed her in all the days of her life: and she will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Written by her loving granddaughter, Misti Johnson

SWIGER, DELORES BARBE
I will try to write an obituary of a dear mother and grandmother, Delores Barbe Swiger. Mamaw was born on June 7, 1934 unto the late Lacy and Cussie Spurlock Barbe. Mamaw departed this life March 3,1998, at her residence after a long illness, making her stay here on earth 63 years, 8 months and 4 days. She married Herbert L. Swiger, who preceded her in death. They had one son Mark L. Swiger of Tram, Ky.; three stepsons and three stepdaughters: Herbert K. Swiger of Ivel, Ky.; Anthony Q. Swiger of Tram, Ky.; James A. Swiger of Eastern, Ky.; Linda Vance of Wooster, Ohio; Amelia Shanley of Pikeville, Ky.; and Sally Justice of Tram, Ky. She had one brother, John Melvin Barbe, who preceded her in death. There are 18 step-grandchildren and 3 step-great-grandchildren. Mamaw was a graduate of Betsy Layne High School and of Mayo Vocational School. In life, her occupation was that of an employee of the Johnson Memorial Park, Flat Top Insurance Agencies, and former secretary of Harold Elementary School. Mamaw was not a member of any church, but she dedicated her time to the Salisbury Church, which was dissolved in 1997. The last testimony she gave, before she couldn't talk, she raised her hand and pointed and said, "I see the gate of Heaven." This made me feel that she is resting and bound for Heaven. Even though she was not able to be baptized, I feel she had that living water. So, to the family and friends, I believe Mamaw and Papaw would tell you to fall out with sin and pick up the cross and follow Jesus, for there is a land where we will reunite together again someday. I feel that our loss is Heaven's gain.
Written by her broken-hearted grandson, Jeremiah Swiger

TACKETT, EVERETT
With broken hearts and loving memories, we will try to write an obituary for husband and father, Everett Lee Tackett. The son of Sylvanis and Rhodina Caudill Tackett, he was born on February 16, 1922. He passed away on January 3, 1998, just six weeks short of his 76th birthday. On June 17, 1941, he was married to Edra Mae Elswick Tackett. To this union were born seven children. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Bernice Marie, age 9, one son, Roy Arnold, age 49, and one son-in-law, Everett "Buster" Johnson. He leaves behind to mourn their loss his wife of almost 57 years; Janice Louise Johnson (Buster's wife); Dorothy Ann Hampton and her husband, Ronnie; Johnny Lee and his wife, Willa; James Enoch and his wife, Belle; George Len and his wife, Yvonne; daughter-in-law, Bernice (Roy's wife); 13 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren, and one sister, Catha Caudill. Besides his parents, he was also preceded in death by 8 sisters and his only brother.  He was a hard working man. He started in the coal mines at age 18, and had to retire at the age of 58, working 40 years in the mines. He was a member of the United Mine Workers Association at the Wheelwright Local. He worked hard all his life to make sure that we had food to eat and clothes to wear. Although he never joined the church, he was a firm believer in the Old Recular Baptist faith. The day before he passed away, he told his youngest daughter that he wouldn't be here much longer. When she asked who had told him that, he answered, "the Good Man above." He said that he had been talking to Him, and He had answered back, so I'm not worried about his soul. I believe that he is at rest. On Saturday morning at 7:20 A.M., he turned over, moved as close against me as he could, put his arm around me, and his last breath left him. It broke my heart, but it was a relief to know that he went so easy. I miss him so much, and although no one knows for sure, I do believe that I will see him again someday, where goodbyes are never necessary. I won't have to help him up, or call the children to come to me for help. I hope to meet him over there soon.  It's lonesome here without him, but one blessing is knowing that he isn't suffering now. I could write a book about our lives together, but it is not necessary. I just want the children to look forward to seeing him again as I do. Written by his wife and children

TACKETT, FLURINDA HALL
On July 17, 1910, Flurinda was born to Lee and Elvina Davis in the hills of southeastern Kentucky. Growing up in the early 1900's on a farm in Pike County, she would take with her the lessons of hard work, endurance, patience and the love of God throughout her 87 years of life. Flurinda would use experiences from her childhood to help her become the dedicated mother of 10 children.  In 1926 she would marry Wibb Hall, and together they would have 5 sons and 3 daughters. Through faith and strength from serving the Lord together, they would help to form the arm of The Little Rock Old Regular Baptist Church, and Flurinda would remain an active member of this arm. She would lose her beloved Wibb in 1951. Later in life she would marry Alfred Tackett. Twin sons were born to this union. Alfred preceded her in death. Flurinda would endure the loss of two infant sons and the tragic loss of her adult son, Danny, and she remained the loving Christian mother who created the circle of love her children will cherish! Flurinda is survived by sons: Wilburn Hall of Columbus, Ohio, Zenith Hall of Bevinsville, Ky. Kinner Hall of Erie, Pa. Raymond Hall of Bevinsville, Ky. Elmer Hall (Deceased) Malcomb Tackett (deceased), Danny Tackett (deceased); daughters: Willene Hall of Bevinsville Ky., Ruby Bates of Silver Lake, In., Shirley Browning of Washington, Courthouse, Ohio; seven brothers: Maryland Hall of Hi Hat, Ky., Jarvey Davis of Albion, Mich. Four infant brothers and two sisters, Arkie Bryant and Usley Johnson are also deceased. Flurinda had 25 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren 9 great-great-grandchildren. Mom lived for the weekend, so she could get out and go to church and be with her brothers and sisters. Mom was always ready to help anyone who needed her. We feel that Mom is resting in the arms of Jesus. We all love and miss you every day Mom, Big Mommy.
Written by her daughter, Ruby, and granddaughter, Karen

TACKETT, LARRY CRAIG
With a broken heart and an unending love, I will try to write an obituary of our precious son, Larry Craig Tackett, "Craigie" to all who knew him. Craig was born September 25, 1979, at the Pikeville Methodist Hospital, Pikeville, Ky., the son of Larry Douglas Tackett and Flora (Thacker) Tackett of Grethel, KY. He departed this life June 17, 1997, making his stay on earth 17 years, 8 months, and 22 days. Craig touched the lives of so many people every day of his life. He was a blessing sent from Heaven to his family and friends. Although he only weighed a little over 2 pounds at birth, and had so many health problems that he was not expected to live, Craigie was above all else, a fighter. He had to battle all his life with his many health problems and illnesses. Craig always amazed everyone he met. He always had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye. When you saw his smile, you couldn't help but feel better. He loved life and he loved his family. Although he could never say so, his smile always told us he knew he was loved and he loved us back. He loved his big brother, Shawn with all his heart. Craig was the grandson of Marie Tackett of Grethel and the late Curt Tackett. He was the grandson of Fayida Ray of Rockhouse Fork, Virgie, Ky. who followed him in death nine months later. Craig was a blessing in our lives. His spirit will live on in our hearts forever, Our lives are so empty now that he has gone, but we know that one day we can be with him again if we just follow God's word. We love you our sweet little darting!
Written by the broken-hearted family

TACKETT, MAGALENE (BROWN)
It is with much sadness and a very lonely heart that I will attempt to write this very special obituary of a precious mother and grandmother. She was the light of my life and my best friend. Mom was born June 26, 1932. She was the daughter of the late Hatler and Liddie Bentley Brown. She was born and raised at Beaver, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her husband, John B. Tackett. They were united in marriage on January 6, 1951. Into this union were born ten children, six boys and four girls. She had 12 precious grandchildren, whom she loved dearly. I will always believe that Mom grieved herself to death after our father passed away. Not a day went by that she didn't mention how much she missed him. Dad was buried behind the home on the hill. We would sit on the patio and she would look up the hill and say she wouldn't be satisfied until she could join him in Heaven. I feel that Mom is finally at peace now, with Dad in Heaven, because I know she had made peace with her Father in Heaven. Mom dedicated her life to taking care of her husband and children. She always made sure everyone was made welcome in her home. Dinner was always cooked for family and friends. No matter what problems we had, Mom always had the answer. No problem was ever too big or too small. She was a great role model for her family. Now that she is no longer with me, I realize the great impact she had on my life. Words cannot be used to express how much I loved her and how much I miss her. Mom always loved to go to church and invite family and friends back to the home for dinner. She and my father had several meetings at our home. She loved it so dearly when friends from the church would come to the home and sing. After Dad passed away, she then had the meetings on the hill behind our home where he was buried. I feel that these special church meetings eased the heavy burden on her heart. My Mother loved red roses and lilies. Dad would always send her red roses on their wedding anniversary. I always told Mom, if mothers were flowers, she would be the one I would choose. On November 7, 1997, God picked the most beautiful rose I have ever seen and added it to his bouquet of flowers. I only hope that I can be added to that bouquet with Mom and Dad one day. Until then, I will try to serve the Lord, and Mom and Dad can sleep on.
Written by her daughter, Shelia Hall

TACKETT, MYRA
While we grieve over the loss of our beloved mother, Myra Tackett, we also shed tears of joy in the assurance that she is now with our living Lord. Myra, 94 years old, a resident of Turkey Pen of Virgie, Kentucky, passed away on June 4, 1997, at Pikeville Methodist Hospital. Myra was born on January 28, 1903, the daughter of Melvin and Louisa Belle Hall. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Tackett, on July 15, 1985, by two sons, Gomer Lee Tackett and Chester Tackett, and by two great-granddaughters, Emily Michelle Childers and Rachel Tackett. She was also preceded in death by four brothers and three sisters, and by two brothers and three sisters who died in infancy. Myra is survived by one son, Arthur Reed Tackett of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; two daughters, Lesta Mae Childers of Brentwood, Tennessee and Lissa Belle Tackett of Virgie, Kentucky; four brothers, Basil Hall of Jenkins, Joseph Morris Hall of Myra, Franklin D. Hall of Shelby Gap and Johnnie Melvin Hall of Warren, Michigan; two sisters, Nanna Mae Blanton of Ashland and Rosa Nell Lawson of Prestonsburg; seventeen grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren. Myra joined the old Regular Baptist Church on August 16, 1947, and was baptized near the church on Indian Creek by Frank A. Hopkins. She loved her church and her brothers and sisters in Christ, and was faithful in attendance as long as her health allowed. She loved to sing and was an avid reader of God's word. Based on remarks she made in her large print New Testament, she had read it completely through seven times during the last few years.One of Mom's greatest attributes was her love and devotion to her family. She worked diligently through most of her life to help provide for their needs without expectation of any reward, other than the satisfaction of knowing that she had tried to do her best for them. She did, indeed, fit the image of the "virtuous woman," so beautifully described in Proverbs 31, and we can almost hear the Lord saying as she went to claim her heavenly place, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of thy Lord." Her family and friends will miss her very much. But, our loss is Heaven's gain, and our hope and faith is "built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness."
Written by her children

TACKETT, TRAMBLE
It is with the help of the Lord we will try to write this obituary of our dad, Tramble Tackett. He was born November 23, 1920, and passed away September 24, 1997, around 3:00 a.m. at the Central Baptist Hospital in Lexington, KY., making his stay here on earth 76 years and 10 months. He was the oldest of eight children. A brother, Arnold Tackett and one sister, Arizona Bradford, preceded him in death. Five sisters remain: Wanda Hamilton, Daisy Mitchell, Kelma Tackett, Hulda Bishop, and Lou Spencer. Early in life Dad had a daughter, Daisy Mae Hamilton, who has since passed away this year, August 1, 1998. Through her Dad attained three granddaughters and five great-grandchildren. Later Dad married our Mother, Rosie Hamilton, the daughter of the late Stephen and Lovine Kiser Hamilton. Unto this union of thirty years of marriage were born three children: Eva Reyvon Hamilton of Banner, KY., Kermit Reed Tackett and Sharon Kay Parsons, both of Teaberry, KY. Of these three children there are eleven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. One grandson, Steven Allen Hamilton, passed away just three months later on December 21, 1997 due to an all terrain vehicle (ATV) accident. Dad and Mom worked hard to raise us children. They struggled through many hardships together, yet they did the best they could. Mom always saw to Dad's every need until she passed away. She was such a good wife and mother. Because of her great compassion and humble teachings, we stood by Dad till the very end. It was what she would have wanted us to do, she loved him so dearly. After Mom passed away, in his later years Dad met and married Ruth Howell Jones. Unto this union there were no children born, but he attained three stepchildren, six step-grandchildren and four step-great-grandchildren. He and Ruth were married over eleven years. Dad was a retired coal miner. He had worked in the coal mines most of his life, close to thirty-two years or so. He was a member of the United Mine Workers, UMWA Local 5899, at Wheelwright, KY. He was a very hard worker. He always believed in hard work, being honest and paying your debts. This is one of the truest teachings he left us. Although Dad had his faults in life, as many of us do, he also had many good qualities. One of these was the fact that he let our Mom do for her family whenever they needed her. Dad truly gave one of God's children a sup of cold water, so to speak, by letting our Mom keep and care for her mother, a good Christian woman who had been afflicted over six years from a stroke. He would sit up all night with Grandma when she would suffer from a seizure and go on to work in the mines the next day. Surely God saw fit to let him receive his reward for such a caring, unselfish sacrifice.Dad attended church often at the Church of God of Prophecy, Hi Hat, KY. yet he loved the Old Regular Baptists, they were his roots. But he never took up membership anywhere. He often struggled with his sickness just to make it to church. He never gave up going until he was hospitalized. His last several months were spent in the hospital where he suffered so much. Dad had told us he believed he was all right and he had been praying for the last several years. When his sister, Wanda, would ask him if he thought Heaven would be his home, he would reply, "I have a hope." With this for our comfort, we know he feels into the hands of an all wise and merciful God. We can be thankful for God's great mercy, Dad's suffering is over in this world. So sleep on, Dad, until that great resurrection day, when all God's children can go home.
Written by his beloved children

TACKETT, WILLIAM D. (BILLY)
With a very sad but grateful heart, I will try to write this obituary of a very precious son, brother, uncle, brother-in-law, great-uncle, cousin, and most of all, one of God's special angels. Billy was born August 14, 1948, to the Late Willie "Sill" and Zettie Johnson Tackett. Billy departed this life on January 23, 1998. In addition to his dad, Billy was preceded in death by one brother, Robert Lee "Bobby" Tackett. Left to mourn are four brothers: Dewey and Vickie of Waverly, Carlis and Garnett of Omega, Ervin and Ruth of Piketon, and Grover Lee and Myrtle of Omega; four sisters: Mary and Lee Hamilton of Bainbridge, Anna "Lou" and Guy Hamilton of Chillicothe, Rebal Havens of Omega, and Stella "Penny" and Kevin Montgomery of Omega; along with a great host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends who loved him. Billy was stricken early in life with ailments. At the age of two he lost his eyesight. A few years later he became a paraplegic, which also included the loss of his right arm. But this didn't stop Billy, he continued to keep going even after the doctors said he wouldn't live long. Sister Zettie lived her life for Billy. We feel this is why God let Billy remain with us for so long. She was not ready to let go of him. God will also bless Penny for giving of her time to help take care of him. All of the children have helped Mom to take care of Billy, but God has kept her able to wait upon him as a baby. I remember he taught me to count, spell, say my ABC's and tie my shoes. He would double check my homework. I recall him arguing with Daddy when he tried to take a nap. The way he could tell who people were by feeling their hair. Even though he was blind, he could see things that others could never see. The glass is half full not half empty. Make the best of what you have and not what you haven't got. When Billy first got really sick, I helped mother, because I felt it was the right thing to do. Billy taught me love and unselfishness, not because he was my brother, because he was Billy.
Written for the family by Elder Don Parker

TUTTLE, LILLIE "MAMP"
With the help of the Lord, and with a broken heart, I will attempt to write the obituary of my dear mother, Lillie Tuttle. She was born March 27, 1914, the daughter of Melissa and Andrew Thornsberry, and died June 17, 1998. She was united in marriage to Henry Tuttle on May 2, 1932. To this union were born 10 children. She was preceded in death by Daddy May 16, 1961 and three of her children: Clementine Thornsberry, June 22, 1988, Clova Calhoun, just a week prior to her death, and Leon, as an infant. She leaves behind seven children: Hargis Tuttle of Wakeman, Ohio, Hagar Tuttle of Canton, Michigan, Hester Gregory and Sharon Walters, both of Morehead, Kentucky, Selinda Hamm of Paintsville, Kentucky, Afo Jean Jacobs of Pippa Passes, Ky., and Harold Tuttle of Kite, Kentucky. Also remaining are 32 grandchildren and 40+ great-grandchildren. Mom suffered a heart attack after witnessing the sudden death of her daughter, Clova. Mom lived one week after this; but God knew it was more than she could bear so He called her home too. She was known as "Mamp" by all the children in the family and the entire neighborhood. Words cannot describe the unique and wonderful person she was. She leaves a legacy that cannot be matched, and a void that cannot be filled, but her memory will live in our hearts forever. Mom gave her life to the Lord and was baptized in November of 1961. She was a faithful member of the Providence Church of the New Salem Association. To the family who don't know the Lord, I say to you, prepare for the glorious world where we can all live together without the pain of goodbyes.
Written by her daughter and sister in the Lord, Hester Greaory, September 24, 1998

VANCE, CHARLIE N. SR.
Today, June 23, 1998, Charlie N. Vance, Sr. went to join his loving wife of 61 years in their new heavenly home. Mommy, Lucinda Hicks Vance, preceded Papa by one month and four days. At the time of his death Papa was 83 years old, born March 2, 1915. He was a life long resident of Paynesville, WV, and a retired coal miner. For over 50 years he was a member of the Fraternal Order of Odd Fellows and a long time member of the UMWA local union #6026. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lucinda; his parents, John and Fannie Elizabeth Pruit Vance; two infant sons, Joshua Daniel and Aaron; four brothers, Albert and Willy (both infants), George, and Perry Vance; four sisters, Omey (infant), Vicy Hagerman, Hettie Hagerman, Mary Jane Hagerman, and Mattie Hale. Survivors include one son, Charlie N. Vance Jr. and his wife, Glenna Fern Hall Vance; two daughters, Omey Vance Payne and her husband David Lee Payne; and Eithel Mae Vance Hall, all of Paynesville. Also surviving are nine grandchildren whom he helped raise: Letha Payne Walters, Sandra, Dawn, and Sarah Hall all of Bluefield, WV; Karen Payne Underwood of Lexington VA; David Rodney Payne of Gaylax, VA; Wesley and Gregory Payne, and Ryan Vance all of Paynesville, WV, five great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Becky Honaker of Jolo, and Fanny Robinson of Lynchburg, VA. Papa leaves a host of family and friends to mourn his passing.
Written by: Eithel and Dawn Hall

VANCE, LUCINDA
With a sad heart I will attempt to write the obituary of my dear mother, Lucinda Vance, age 82, for we lost her this morning, May 19, 1998 after a long illness. Our loss was Heaven's gain, for Momrny was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church for 69 years. She was born on November 20, 1915, to the late John M. and Clara Woody Hicks. Two infant sons preceded her in death, Aaron and Joshua David; also 3 brothers and one sister, John R., Amos, Raymond, and Lissie Hicks. She leaves to mourn their loss her loving husband, Charlie N. Vance, Sr., one son, Charlie N. Vance, Jr., and his loving wife, Glenna Fem Hall Vance.; 2 daughters, Omey Vance Payne and her loving husband, David Lee Payne, and Eithel Mae Vance Hall, all of Paynesville, WV; also 9 grandchildren whom she proudly helped raise: Letha Payne Walters, Sandra, Dawn, and Sarah Hall, all of Bluefield, WV, David Rodney Payne of Galax, VA, Wesley and Gregory Payne, and Robert Ryan Vance all of Paynesville, and Karen Payne Underwood of Lexington, VA; along with 5 great-grandchildren. She also leaves one brother, Joshua Hicks of Lancaster OH; and 4 sisters: May Sexton and Leah Hagerman, both of Paynesville, Cynthia Slone of Kite, KY and Edith Hagerman of Legionier, IN; and a host of nieces and nephews. Our loss is Heaven's gain. She will never be forgotten by her family and friends.
Written by Eithel and Dawn Hall

VANDERPOOL, PARALEA  AUGUST 1, 1919 - SEPTEMBER 1, 1998
Nanny's life quilt; in loving memory of our "Nanny," Paralea Vanderpool. Paralea Campbell was born August 1, 1918 to Robert and Eliza Jane Campbell. On February 19, at the age of 19, she married Kindle Vanderpool, and to this union were born three daughters: Bobbie Jo, Lora Evangeline, and Coleda; and one son, Donald Peary. From those four children they were blessed with seven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, but they were the ones who were truly blessed for having such a nanny! There were lots of grandmas, but only one "Nanny." Kindle and Paralea lived in McDowell, Kentucky most of their lives, and had been members of Little Rosa Old Regular Baptist Church since 1962. Kindle joined the Lord in 1985, and Donnie was only with her another four years until his passing. Nanny spent her last years, while she was able, visiting loved ones and enjoying her family. Those who knew her will never forget her giving nature, from the many homeless animals she adopted, to the love she stitched into every quilt. Her family will continue to grow from the love she shared and the hearts she touched, like the many flowers in her gardens.
Written with hearts full of love and precious memories, your grandchildren

WATTS, ALIFAIR CONLEY
In request of the family, I will try to write the obituary of our sister, and wonderful mother, Alifair Watts. She was born November 10, 1911, and went to be with Jesus September 17, 1998, after a long and blessed life. On December 19, 1932, she married Hager Watts and to this union were born 13 children, eight sons: Elmer Ray, Leburn, KY, William Harlan, Moores Hill, IN; Dennis Watts, Mousie, KY, Jerry Watts, HueysviUe, KY, and James Olus Watts, Mousie, KY; five daughters: Reba Triplett, Rockwell, NC; Minnie Faye lson, Moores Hill, IN; Thelma Ilene Venters, Moores Hill, IN; and Golidy Conley, Moores Hill, IN. She was preceded in death by three sons: Eddie Lee, Robert, and J.M.; one daughter, Laura; granddaughter, Jeri Lynn Watts; nephew, Charles Casebolt; one daughter-in-law, Betty Sue Watts, and husband, Hager Watts. Sister Alifair joined the church 60 or 61 years ago and, along with her husband, Hager, served as deacon of the Ball Branch Regular Baptist Church since July 16, 1949. Many memories from my childhood I have of this good sister. I have spent many nights and days in her home, eaten at her table and shared in the life of this family as well as their loss of loved ones, sickness and many good times. There are a lot of good things that could be said about Sister Alifair, but I'm sure her children knew her better than anyone else. In these last days, it has been very hard for them to see her life draw near to the end. But good mothers have a way of instilling in the lives of their children responsibility that will cause them to give their all to helping others. As she slowly marched faithfully down to Jordan's cold river of death, she drew weaker with each step she took. But just out ahead there was someone gently calling, "Don't give up, just a few more steps and I'll let you rest." I feel sure she is resting now with Jesus.As she entered into her joy, sadness entered into the hearts of five sons and four daughters, two sisters, Delaney Wallen and Minnie Conley, 16 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. So sleep on, Sister Alifair, and enjoy being in the presence of the Lord. We will soon meet again on that bright shore of Heaven, to part no more. To her children, she did the best she knew to leave you a path to follow. If you haven't made ready to meet her, start looking, start asking, start knocking, and somewhere you'll find some stones and landmarks that she piled up to mark the way that would be safe for you to walk.
Written by Brother Roger Hicks

WEBB, CLAUD E.
Claud E. Webb of Langley, Kentucky, died Sunday June 14, 1998 at Highlands Regional Medical Center in Prestonsburg, following an extended illness. He was born August 12, 1921, at Langley, the son of the late Earl S. and Lula May Webb. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Grace Salisbury Webb; one grandson, Thomas Matthew Webb; and one brother, Tom Webb.  Claud was a retired Station Engineer for the Kentucky West Virginia Gas Company, after 44 years of service, and a member and Deacon At the Bethel Regular Baptist Church. Survivors include four sons: Robert Kent Webb, of Stockdale, Ohio, Thomas Jackson Webb, of Allen Ky., Paul Marcus Webb of South Charleston, Ohio, and Claude Jennings Webb, Langley, Ky.; two daughters, Mary Susan Goins, Martin, KY., and Jeannie Katherine Tussey, of Springfield, Ohio; one sister, Edna Click of Langley, Ky.; 17 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Brother Claud was well taken care of and very loved by his son, Claude Jennings, and his wife, Janet Webb, who lived next door and saw that he had everything that he needed and wanted, such as a special food, or, if he was able to attend church, they helped him to get there. The family thanks them for taking care of him both at home and at the hospital. Bro. Claud's funeral was conducted Wednesday, June 17, 1998, at the Hall Funeral Chapel in Martin by Regular Baptist ministers, and he was laid to rest in the family cemetery at Langley. Serving as pallbearers were: Brian Webb, Robert Kent Webb II, Rosco Claud Webb, Claude Jennings Webb II, Gary Michael Webb, Delbert Milton Goins, Robert Jason Webb, Jeremy Lee Webb, Jeff Tussey and Paul Marcus Webb II.  Brother Claud joined the old Regular Baptist Church in September of 1989, and was baptized by Elder Bill Tackett and Elder Buck Tuttle. Later he was ordained a Deacon in the Bethel Church. He was faithful to his church. When money was needed, he was ready to give. When there was work to be done, he was ready to lend a helping hand at any time. The family has lost a wonderful father and grandfather. Sister Edna has lost a loving friend and brother, they were so close. The church has lost a good soldier, but we feel we can say, "Sleep on, Brother Claud, we will meet you in that bright morning on God's Golden Shore."
Written by Bro. Buck Tuttle and Sister Edna Click