NORTHERN NEW SALEM ASSOCIATION 1971
Fourteenth Annual Session
OBITUARIES

Adkins, Grady   Elder Grady A. Adkins was born April 20, 1893, at Greasey Creek in Pike County Kentucky.  he was the son of the late L. Grant Adkins and the late Elizabeth Coleman Adkins.  He married Minty Brown on September 3, 1914.  to this union was born sixteen children.  One girl, Margaret Katherine is deceased.  He leaves to mourn his loss his wife, Minty Brown Adkins; fifteen children: Lenford, Charlie, Barrett, Grover, Warren Gee, Reaford, Hiram, Franklin Grady Mrs. Ruby Conn Mrs.. Ona Mae Bartley, Mrs. Fayetta May, Mrs. Ella Harris, Mrs. Ruth Bartley, Mrs. Madge Mullins, and Mrs. Minne Vee Raines; forty-four grandchildren, and eighteen great-grandchildren.  He leaves one brother, Sollie Adkins, two sisters, Fannie Adkins and Nannie Clark. Brothers and sisters that have gone before him are Alvin Adkins, Fonso Adkins, Ella Ford, Annie Ratliff, and Ocie Ratliff.  Grady joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in 1923 at Greasy Creek.  He was baptized by the late Brother Frank Hopkins, and soon after was ordained as a Minster.  In his life of the Church, he was called on in many ways to serve the Church and was faithful to his calling.  To all his children and many friends you all know Papa's words about Jesus, he found them to be peace to his soul.  papa was one that loved to read this Bible.  If you will only look around and remember the words he spoke to you, your like will be much more meaningful.  Jesus called and Papa answered.  Oh what a call it was, for it left our heart so empty.  As we saw our Father pass away, our hearts were made lighter because Papa chose Psalms 49:15 for his last text.  "But God swill redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me."  I will not attempt to write all Papa has said and done.  children, with all my heart, I am glad he was my Father.  and I will meet him again Heaven some day.  I would like to say to all of his grandchildren, knowing how close you were to Papaw, he would like for all of you to choose Jesus in life's journey somewhere. For this will be the road that will lead you to meet papaw again, may all of us children let his life reign on in our hearts forever.  And oh Mama how he loved you, too!  Just cast your eyes on Jesus for he can take us through the golden gates of Heaven.  There we will sing and shout forever with that holy happy band.  The hour has come for us to lay Papa in the grave, and oh how sad it will be!  May we all say, as we turn from his grave, Lord lead me to that land where we can live forever so papa has said farewell until we meet again in Heaven.
Written by his Unworthy Son   Hiram Adkins

Akers, Vanie Francis   I will try by the help of the Lord, to write an obituary of my beloved Aunt Vanie Francis Akers.  She was born January 25, 1909 and departed this life March 9, 1971, making her stay here on earth 62 years, one month and twelve days.  Aunt Vanie was the daughter of the late William Lee Compton, and Martha (Keathley) Compton, of Pike County Kentucky. Early in life she met and married Sam Akers on December 9, 1932 and to this union was born three daughters, and one son,  One daughter, Wanda Vivian, preceded her in death, leaving to mourn her loss Betty Lee Caldwell of Bell Garden, Calif. and Margarette Ann Lewis of Blue Ridge GA and Carmon, who lives at home. also seven grandchildren, and one brother, Steve Compton and two sisters, Ruth Virginia Hall, and Pauline Carpenter.  Sister Vanie joined the Little Ida church, of Old Regular Baptist, and was baptized June 21, 1964.  she was a devoted wife, and mother, and was always concerned about her children. She loved the Church, and always filled her seat faithfully.  After Brother Sam was ordained as a Deacon, she was much help and strength to Brother Sam in his duties and remained true to the faith until the end. The church has lost a dear sister, and Brother Sam a devoted wife, and the children a beloved mother, she will be sadly missed by all who knew he. so children be good to your dear father and you can see mother again if you will only serve the true and Living God, she lived and served her life for, while she was here.
Written by a niece, and a sister in Christ  Martha Potter

Farley, John Lee   In much sadness and with Gods help, I'll try and write the obituary of my dad,and brother in the Lord.  John lee Farley was born April 17, 1906, died May 16, 1971, making his stay on earth, 65 years, 29 days.  He was the son of James and Judy Murphy Farley.  Dad suffered so long, he lost his left leg above the knee, in the Hardy, Ky. coal mines in 1936.  He was sick for the last 18 months of his life.  He was married to Fern smith, July 25, 1925 and to this union was born 11 children.  Bobby has already crossed over the other side. He leaves the rest of us to mourn his death, 7 boys, 3 girls: Cletius Farley, Warren, Michigan; Cecil Farley, Macon, Georgia; "Jack" Andrew Jackson farley, Madison Heights, Michigan; Mrs. Mary alma Yates, Warren, Michigan; Mrs. Maxine Maynard, Washington, Michigan; Mrs. :Phyllis Gene Killala, Highland park, Michigan; "Pat" Willie Lee Farley, Hazel Park, Michigan; Burl Sessil Farley, Madison Heights, Michigan; Lester Stirl Farley, Detroit, Michigan; and "Little Ray" Raymond Erick Farley, New Baltimore Michigan.  So children, if you want to see your dear Dad, "pop" you will have to get on the road that he traveled.  He left the road signs so we could se them and some day I hope to meet him in the Glory Land, where there will be no more sickness, no more cancer, to take our loved ones.  He joined the narrows Branch Regular Baptist Church, the 4th Saturday in August, 1948. so he put the whole armor of God on, he was so king to us children, and understanding.  It breaks my heart to try and write this.  Dad had two brothers, Lawrence Farley, Hardy, Ky.; and bob Farley, hardy, Ky. bob followed him in death, and was buried July 23, 1971.  He had 29 grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.  He also left my dear grandparents, his father-in-law, and mother-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Mack and Hattie Smith, Hardy Ky.  We all miss him so much, but our loss is Heaven's gain.  amen.
Written by a Brother in Hope, and son, Cletius Farley

Gearing, Martha Elizabeth  By the request of the family and the help of the good Lord, I will try to write a short obituary of Sister Martha Elizabeth Gearing, who departed this life at Riverside Hospital on June 19, 1971.  She was born in Catlettsburg, Kentucky, on August 15, 1923, to the late Mr. And Mrs. Rural Jarrells.  She was married to Clifton Gearing on October 24, 1942, who survives.  To this union was born three daughters; Mrs. Lavada Luster, of Columbus, Ohio; Mrs. Wanda Snoke, of Londonderry, Ohio and miss Bessie Leola Gearing at home. also three granddaughters: Dianne, Sandra and Tammy.  She left one sister, Mrs.. Osa Crabtree and three brothers, Adron, Norman and Walter Jarrells, all from Portsmouth, Ohio.  Sister Gearing joined the Little Angel Church of Old Regular Baptist, on the 21st day of October, 1966.  Sister Gearing lived a true Christian life until God saw fit to call her home.  She had been ill for sometime even though her illness didn't keep her from filling her seat at church.  I have seen her raise her hands and shout the praises of God so many times. so children, Husband and friends, I would love to give you a few words of advice.  You know the life Mother lived before you, and I feel that if you ever want to see Mother again, you will have to follow in her footsteps, for I believe she is at rest, just waiting for that morning when Jesus will come on a cloud of Glory to take his children home  We don't know when that death angel will come riding by, so be ready, if you want to see mother again
Elder Forest Osborne

Hall, Carrie Johnson  With much sadness in my heart, I will try to write an obituary of my beloved mother, Carrie Johnson Hall.  She was born in Floyd County, Kentucky, on August 13, 1915.  Departed this life June 29, 1970, at the age of 54 years, 10 months and 16 days.  She met and married Earl Hall and to this union were born four children and ten grandchildren.  Mom had been sick for a long time.  Mom never joined any church, but she told some f the Broths in church that she believe the Lord had forgiven her, and that she wanted to be baptized. But she never lived to be baptized.  she loved for the Brothers and sisters to come and see her, they would sing and pray and rejoice in the Lord.  I want to say to my two brothers and my only sister, if you ever want to see mom again, Pray.
Written by a broken-hearted daughter, Gladys

Hall, Earl   With much sadness in my heart, I will try to write an obituary of my beloved father, Earl Hall.  He was  born in Knott county Kentucky, on March 10, 1916 and departed from this life October 11, 1969 at the age of 53 years, 7 months and 1 day.  Early in his life he met and married Carrie Johnson and to this union were born four children and ten grandchildren.  Dad never belonged to any church, but I saw him change the last 3 to 4 years of his life.  He would get out and go to church and I know that he was praying for, I saw him on his knees so many times.  He loved to talk about the Lord.  He would come and visit me and talked about the Bible.  I don't believe God ever turned down a praying heart.  Dad we miss you since you went away  We miss your smiling face since God took you away.  I want to say to my Brothers and my Sister, if you want to see Dad again, Pray
Written by a broken-hearted Daughter, Gladys

Hampton, Glendon  By the help of the good Lord, I'll try to write a few words about my beloved stepbrother Glendon Hampton.  He died at his home in Oxford, Ohio on Friday, February 5, 1971.  He was the son of Jasper and Georgia Back Hampton.  He was born January 24, 1926.  Making his stay here on earth 45 years and 12 days.  He was born at Jeremiah, Kentucky.  His father preceded him in death several years ago.  His mother later married Lloyd Day, Waynesburg, Kentucky.  He was a Veteran of world War II and served in the Navy.  After coming here he went to Michigan and worked a while then came back to Kentucky where he met and married Jean Gilley in 1949.  To this union was born 3 sons, Glendon Jr., 21, now serving with the U.S. navy, and Delbert, 17, and David, 8 at home.  He came to Oxford 16 years ago and was layed off. Then he was an employee at the Miami university as a Maintenance worker at the time of death.  He was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church for a few years before death.  he loved to go to church and seemed to enjoy it so well. He always had a smile for everyone he met.  We will all miss glen very much.  He left to mourn his loss, besides his wife, Jean and boys, 2 brothers, Donald of Sardina, Ohio; Gale of Waynesburg, Kentucky; one half brother, Estill Day of Wabash, Indiana; one sister, Gladys Thompson of Muncie, Indiana 2 half sisters, Oreene Correll of Somerset, Kentucky and Mary Ann Yonts of Waynesburg, Kentucky, and several step sisters and brothers, plus a host of friends and relatives.  Glen enjoyed talking about the Lord and the good blessing he would bestow up on him at church.  So we hope he is resting peaceful where are no sickness or heartaches.
Written by Hettie Thompson   A stepsister

Holbrook, R. E. By the request of the family, I will try to write an obituary of R. E. Holbrook.  He was born in Letcher County in the year of 1897.  Passed from this life June 20, 1970 at home with a heart condition.  Being 73 years, and 5 months old.  He was the son of he late Bill and Sarah Holbrook, and was married to Lizzie Hall, the daughter of Alex and Clerinda Hall in the year of 1916, and to this union was born eleven children, four which preceded him in death, seven still living.  Four girls Rushie, Viola, Amalean and Geraldine. three boys, Elford, Zee and Oceanus.  He has twenty-five grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren, also two brothers, Bumer and Sandy, two sisters, Louise and Della to mourn his death, and a host of  relatives and friends.  Brother Eppie professed a hope in the Lord, and joined the Elizabeth church of The Old Regular Baptist about 1922, and lived a faithful member.  His wife joined the Rebecca Church, and being so close to his companion in the year of 1933 to go preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  In the same year he was appointed moderator, and served this church until death.  I want to say to Sister Lizzie and the children, as much as you have lost a good companion and father, the church has lost a good soldier, and I am sure all that knew Brother Eppie will miss his presence in several churches, which he has preached and the homes he has been in, to try to comfort the broken hearted and share their grief with those that weep.  The nights never got too dark, and the weather too bad for him to go to someone that was in need of help or comfort.  He traveled over hills and mountains, and highways in the dark hour of midnight going to the rescue of the broken hearted and preaching repentance to the world of mankind, but lo his voice is stilled in the land of Judah and will not be heard any more, as Job says we come forth as a flower and cut down, and continueth not, I want to say to sister Lizzie, from the life Brother Eppie lived you have nothing to worry about, except his presence in the home.  I know our grief is heavy but the Lord has promised to help us to bear our grief if we only trust in him, and to the children who have not made peace with the Lord, weep not for Daddy, but weep for yourselves, fall out with sin and follow the good council, and follow the footstep.  I believe it will lead you to the fountain of living water that Daddy drank from as most of us know the life of Brother Eppie.  I could go on writing about the good works of him, but it's not needful to take the time.
May God Bless sister Lizzie and her children
Written by a Brother in Hope   Orsker Hall (Clerk)

Holsinger, Edward  The son of the late Richard Allen Holsinger and Elizabeth Madden Holsinger was born January 23, 1906, and departed this life June 27, 1971, making his stay on earth 65 years, 5 months and 4 days.  He was married to Maxie Martin, July 7, 1930, and to this union was born three sons and two daughters.  They are Harold and Victor of Columbus; Jimmy of Virgie, Mrs. Noble Newsome of Virgie; Linda Jackson of Columbus, Ohio. He also leaves to mourn his passing 10 grandchildren, two brothers, Earl Holsinger of Friendship, Ohio and Charles Holsinger of Marion, Ohio and four sisters, Carmmie Lane Gracie Moore, Elsie Maynard, and Nellie Jackson.  Brother  Ed joined the Old Regular Baptist Church at Enterprise in the year of 1942, and went in an arm from the Enterprise Church to organize the Little Angel church in Columbus, Ohio.  Brother Ed has lived faithful to his profession and was an ordained Deacon in the Little Angel Church.  Brother Ed has been afflicted for some time, but like Job, he bore his afflictions with patience and we feel that his suffering is over.  We feel that our loss is Heaven's gain.  may I say to his children, as I believe Brother Ed would say, "Weep not for me, but weep for yourselves and your children."  To you children, if you want to meet Daddy again, you must forsake the way of sin and be born again.  to you, Sister Maxie life will be lonesome, but just press on for it won't be long till you can join Brother Ed in the Heavenly Country. 
Written by Elder Monroe James

Martin, Mary  It is with much sorrow we will try to write an obituary of sister Mary Martin.  Born January 24, 1895 and passed away April 13, 1971, of a heart attack at the home of her son, Vernon Martin.  She was the daughter of Nelson Tackett and Sarah Elizabeth Tackett who preceded her in death. she was married in 1901 to George Martin who also preceded her in death.  Unto this union were born sixteen children, thirteen of whom also preceded her in death.  She leaves two daughters, Daisy Dorton of Lincoln Park, and Pearl Blevins of Ecorse, Michigan, one son Vernon Martin of Pikeville, Kentucky to our the loss of a precious and loving mother. she also leaves 27 grandchildren, and 22 great grandchildren and one sister, Phenis Rice of Geneva, Ohio and many friends and relatives that will miss her so much.  She was loved by all that knew her.  She would meet every one with a smile.  she joined the Zion Regular Baptist church the 1st of August in 1936 and was a faithful member with them until 1950 when she came off in an arm to help establish the Pilgrims Home church the 1st at the mouth of Branhams Creek. she got her letter in 1964 and took it to the Little Ida church where she cold be with her two daughters .  She was a faithful member there until death.  she will be missed by all.  but we word's call her back to this old world if we could.  We feel our loss is Heaven's gain.
Written by a Brother in Hope  Troy L. Branham and the Family

                                                            GRANDMA

I loved my Grandma, she was a dear
She lived a rugged life down here,
She's gone to meet god, I know she is
Because God told her, that she was His
She lived a life of grief and pain
She sowed the field, and reaped the grain
She worked all her life, and I mean hard
She worked in the house and in the yard
She would work all day and never stop
She worked until I thought she'd drop
She had 16 children, whom all she bore
She loved hr children, that's all she lived for.
She lived a Christian life I know
She loved God, she told me so
She bore her fruit and bore it well
Her destiny was Heaven instead of Hell
Grandma was a person, who everyone loved
She way a good natured persona and was spoke well of
Grandma was great in every way.
She walked closet to her god every day
When our savior calls us we must be ready
We can't say "God wait until life is steady"
When life is ended and is no more"
We shall meet god on that golden shore
Grandma was ready, I feel that she was
I saw her signs by the way side that sang like a dove
the death angel came and said "You've suffered our score"
And Grandma is with her God forever more
She had a husband and 13 children who've gone on before
And this was also some of the grief my Grandma bore
I fell my Grandma is at rest
Because our Savior felt it best
Written by her Granddaughter Jonda Blevins

Moore, Edison D.  There comes a time in life when every servant of God meets a sad hour and needs someone stronger to lean on.  Then we all call in mind what Jesus said before he went away.  "sorrow hat filled your hearts, but I will see you again."  This obituary of Edison D. Moore, who was the son of A.J. Moore and Jemima Moore.  Born March 23, 1903 at Hippo, Kentucky.  He was 67 years and 10 months old.  Deceased from this life January24, 1917.  He was first married to Therba Gearheart and unto this union was born 4 children. They are Gladys and Lucille Moore of Plymouth, Ohio, Gleen Moore of Hueysville Kentucky and Gorner Moore of Plymouth, Ohio.  He had 2 grandchildren and 5 broths and sisters. They are E.C. Moore of Martin, Kentucky, R.E. Moore of Martin, Kentucky, R. E. Moore of Ashland, Kentucky, Virgie Hughes of Ravenswood, WV, Emma Ousley of Shelby, Ohio, and Alice Ousley of Hippo, Kentucky. some few years Therba, his first wife, departed this life at Plymouth, Ohio.  He was then married to Edna Mae Bailey.  For the last year Ed was in poor health, no doubt more ill than we all realized.  He didn't belong to any church, but I know he had made a big change in both his talk and actions.  Dear children I wish I could say I know your father has gone to rest, but what he told Sister Ellen Shepherd, Anna Prater, and his wife, Edna Mae he was alright.  There is a judge yonder in Heaven who will give every man and woman a righteous and eternal. judgments.  So children be good to another and seek the Lord in this life. So dear friends farewell.
Written by his Brother-in-law  elder Claude Ousley

Mullins, Arilla  With much sadness I will try in my weakness to write an obituary of a mighty precious sister in the Lord, beloved sister Arilla Mullins.  She departed this life the 2nd of May 1971,making her stay on this earth 86 years, 11 months, and 24 days.  Her husband John Morgan Mullins, who died January15, 1958 and four children preceded her in death.  She leaves to mourn her loss, nine children, seven girls, Vina Mullins of Waynesburg, Kentucky; Louie Davidson of Cincinnati, Ohio; Zilla Tackett of Waynesburg, Kentucky; Donvia Measel of Rosedale, Indiana; Leona Baugh of Cincinnati, Ohio; Ilma Thompson of Christiansburg, Ohio, and Ruth Mitchell of Spiceland, Indiana and two boys, Mr. Smith Mullins of Nokomis, Florida and Mr. Clifford Mullins of Long Beach, California and 36 grandchildren and 75 great-grandchildren, and 19 great-great-grandchildren.  Surviving her are one whole sister, Mrs. Lourene Greer and one half sister, Elvina Osborn, and four half-brothers, George Burk, Arlin Burk and Mosey Burk.  sister Arilla joined the regular Baptist church at Pilgrims Rest in 1906, and was baptized by old brother A.L. Mercer. As you will see in her own written words farther down this obituary, she later got her letter and came to the Friendship Church in Lincoln county Kentucky.  later she brought her letter to the Little jewel Church at Ashland, Kentucky.  Here she remained a loving and faithful member until her death. She stayed at my home some and I sure enjoyed her company.  She stayed part of the time with their daughter, Ilma and part with Vina Mullins another of her daughters.  But the most of her life, after the death of her husband, she spend with brother Perry Tackett and Sister Zilla, where she left this world to join the angels.  I want to say to Brother Perry and Sister Zilla that they did wonderful to their mother to wait on her as they did and also to Ilma and the other children who were so wonderful to wait on their mother.  And I want to say to those children who have never made peace with God. If you ever want to see mother again, do as she did, get down on your knees, and pray unto the Lord.  she would ay to me so often that she would love to see her children com in before it's too late. She ahs said, "Brother Steve if our children don't get right, we can't help it."  I am sure that mother set the example before her children. so children when you lost mother you have lost the best friend you had in nature on earth. But the Lord is the best friend of all.  so I want to say, sleep on Sister Arilla, it won't be long till we meet together, where parting is no more. We realize that the little Jewell Church has lost a precious member and Heaven has gained an extra crown.  And I hear the scripture saying, "And I heard a voice saying unto me write, blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth, year sayeth the Spirit, but they may rest form their labor and their words do follow them."  so I believe Sister Arilla's works and her walk are following after her, of her children and those who knew her. So I must close this obituary as it is getting lengthy.  sister Arilla's memorial funeral will be preached at the Powell Church the 2nd Saturday and Sunday in June of 1972.  Ministers who she has chosen are Steve Osborn, Alonzo Allen, Roy Akers, Baxter Osborn, Clifford Colley, Hendricks Hampton, and Carlos Little.
A precious one from is gone,
A voice we loved is still
A seat is vacant in our church
That never can be filled
Written by Elder Steve Osborn
 This is the writing of Sister Arilla Mullins
Arilla Burk Mullins was born May 8th, 1884, daughter of Moses and Elvina Hall Burk, in 1898.  I was married to John Morgan Mullins. to us were born 13 children, 5 boys and 8 girls, 3 died in infancy, 1 girl, 2 boys.  Our first baby was born Jan 21, 1900, died Jan 21, 1900.  I was almost 16 years old.  Then is when I seen or felt myself a sinner and my trouble begin.  I went on mourning the loss of our baby that was so precious.  Then my mind begin to wonder where my soul would go if I was call to go. then I begin to pray for the Lord to have mercy on my soul and not let me go to that place called Hell.  For I had heard the Preachers talk about and all them that did not do the will of the Lord would go there.  then every time we went to meeting I felt more condemned.  I was down hearted my very life had become a burden.  I was carrying from time to time.  So this went on till sometime in Sept 1903.  I was on my knees praying for the last time.  I thought I would never see my family again.  But I heard a voice from somewhere and I was afraid to raise my head.  So it spoke again and said be not afraid. it was then I looked and it was my Savior standing with our stretched arms for me to come to him.  Then all at once my heavy load was gone I knew now where. And I was so happy.  I was not afraid, everything seemed to be rejoicing with me. But sometime later it got afraid maybe I was mistaken. But something said go home to your friends and I prayed to be shown where to find them.  And every time we went to meeting at the Pilgrim's Rest Church back in the Mts. of Pike County Kentucky, I felt it was my home and would go back home dissatisfied.  but I wanted to wait till my companion got ready so we could both make our offering together. This went on for a long time.  So we still went to church, it was Sept the 7th, 1906, the first Sunday.  so in the close of meeting, I must of been overcome by the spirit and I had joined the church not realizing what I was doing till Brother A.L. Mercer asked when I wanted to be baptized so it came to me I had went home.  Then the first Sunday, Oct 5th me and 10 others were baptized by the hands of Elder A.L. Mercer. so the Baptist Church has been my home.  I have been satisfied to dwell together with my brethren and sisters. With my Savior to lead and direct my pathway.  For he is all in all to me and as I get older my faith grows stronger and my way grows brighter. When I started out on my journey home we had 3 small children neither one old enough to know or remember anything about it.  So my children wanted me to leave a record for them of my life.  I have done the best I can now that I am 81 years old, can't remember too go what happens now. but things that happened years ago that I have wrote.  I don't think we ever forget
Wrote by me, Arilla Burks Mullins   Your Mother

Mullins, Berte  In memory of one so dear to me, my sweet companion, Berte Mullins.  she died June 30, 1970 about 4 o'clock in the morning.  when I left that morning going to work at six thirty. I thought she was asleep and resting good, so I didn't try to awaken her.  When I returned at one o'clock oh, what an awful feeling I got.  I found that she had gone to sleep forever.  Just went to sleep in the arms of Jesus never to come back and be with me anymore.  The bible says you are no more twain but one that is if you have pure love for each other.  so I feel like half of me died when she went away to live with sweet Jesus. no one knows the loneliness and what a lonesome life you have after your companion is gone except the ones that had the experience. 
Written by a lonely husband John Mullins

Prater, Joe   I now make the feeble attempt to write something abut our dear Brother, Joe Prater, who was born in Hueysville, Ky.  on February 23, 1896 and died April 25, 1971.  He was the son of Daniel and Rhoda Prater.  He was married to Jenny Ousley and unto this union was born eleven children six of whom still survive.  They are Luke and Casey of McArthur, Ohio; Joe Ed of Beverly, Ohio; Ruffus of Catlettsburg, Ky., Charles of South Point, Ohio; and one daughter, Cledith Oiler of McArthur, Ohio/  Brother Joe Prater was baptized into the fellowship of the Old Regular Baptist Church in February 1952 and lived from that time up until his death a faithful member.  He seemed to live up to the Commandments of God as near as any member of the church.  He was sick a few years before his death with heart trouble, but bore himself with patience and fortitude during his sickness.  Brother Joe was also good and patient to his companion, sister jenny as she lay in bed sick most of the winter before his death.  I am a young member in the church, but I had a worked with Brother Joe quite a few years, before he retired from Austin Power Co., while I was still a sinner man.  Brother Joe always stood out among the working men and seemed so different from the rest of us.  We all thought he was such an old person; because he didn't mix in with the rest of us with our card playing and jokes during lunch hour.  But oh, how I can see Brother Joe thru different eyes after I became a child of God.  I guess now, I seem odd to my fellow worker. I can honestly say, Brother Joe walked a true and Christian life at works as well as away from work. When it pleased god to call his spirit home on high, how sad we all were and how we do miss our dear Brother when we gather at the Maggie Home Church and see his vacant seat.  But we do hope our great loss is his eternal gain.  Brother Prater was a man respected and loved by all who knew him, and I would like to say to his children; walk in the footsteps of your dad.  He left a light hanging for you in the window.  If you ever hope to see daddy again and you aren't' already saved. you will have to follow in his footsteps and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. 
Farewell, my dear brethren, farewell for awhile,
We'll soon meet again if kind Providence smiles;
But while we are parted, and scattered abroad.
We'll pray for each other and trust in the Lord.
Farewell, faithful soldiers, you'll soon be discharged.
The war will be ended the bounty enlarged;
With shouting and singing, though Jordan may roar
You'll enter fair Canaan and rest on the shore.
Farewell my dear brethren, farewell all around,
Perhaps we'll not meet till the last trumpet sounds,
To meet you in glory, I give you my hand,
Our Savior to praise, in a pure social band.
Written by a brother-in-hope, Bobby L. Baker

Ray, Elder Hiram B.  With profound sorrow and joyous relief, I record the demise of my beloved father and brother in Christ, the late Elder Hiram b. Ray.  He departed our midst on Saturday evening at 4:30 p.m. December 5, 1970, at the Veteran's Hospital in Allen Park Michigan.  born October 1, 1895 to Richard and Cordelia Ray of Virgie, Ky.  He spent the greater part of his life, in the surrounding hill of Pike county, Ky.  the latter years of his life, his one and only desire and ambition was to return and spend the remaining years of his life in that country, Fate and circumstance denied that request.  A persevering giant in character, a true and loyal soldier, he clung to this life through many years with a body wracked with pain, and a life filled with sorrow.  when he knew he could no longer remain with us, he submitted with the repeated Prayer of promise "that Everyone through Christ might live."  He repeated these words in this fashion in the hopes that his family would understand, repent, and come to him later.  No state of delirium could dim his minds view of Eternal life.  Many of the earlier years of his life were spent traveling through the hills of Ky, and Virginia preaching the Gospel message of Redemption.  Through his works and faithful, helping hands he endured himself to one and all throughout the North and South.  His greatest happiness of all years came when his two daughters accepted his God, and added to this blissful plans of his already established future family.  In the great Beyond.  Many lives bear witness to the ever-bright ray of light he cast in hi8slife time, yes to this day.  No tongue, no pen is capable of a complete composite of his 75 years of life.  Thirty of these years he saved with diligence within the fellowship of the Old Regular Baptist Church. With a couple of other sweet old brothers, brother Hiram established the first Old Regular Baptist church in Michigan, and assisted in the organization of sister churches.  He preaches his last sermon, at the Little Ida Church, in Ecorse, about a month before his passing. He was so weak, brother Lloyd had to help him up and down.  Weak and frail as he was he held onto the stand and preached a strong beautiful and moving sermon after introducing the services with an appropriate song, "Almost Home."  Now that he is home, I am sorry the family missed hearing the song and his parting remarks. Brother Hiram's demise widens the circle of vacant chairs in our family as all the elders have gone, along with three infant children, which precede him many years ago.  The family that mourns him consists of his wife, Maggie peters Ray, Detroit Michigan; six children: Ernst B. Ray of Pikeville; Reed Ray of Aberdeen, Maryland,; Cheri Sowards Roncifer of New Boston, Michigan; Gayle Tawwater, of Brighton, Michigan; rose Coleman of Pikeville, Ky; and Kay Austin Henson of Jasper, Georgia; and twenty-one children.  I am sure it would be my father's desire, that I urge the family to get acquainted with his God and no t have the circle broken in Heaven.  They won't visit him here, nor ever aging hear him awaken them, singing and preaching in his sleep.  Mother, Ernest, Reed, Cheri rose and Kay, it's your choice, go to him.  In tribute to his memory, as comfort to the family and others who may have lost an old time father or mother, I submit a poem which my father loved and read long ago.
                                                           Father's Eternal Light

                                                            I had a kind old father
                                                            And loving mother too
                                                            They laid for us a pattern
                                                            And showed us what to do
                                                            These were Dad's words long ago
                                                            In these words his own life story is told
                                                    Written by a loving Daughter   Gale Tawwater

Rose, Ira   It's with a sad and aching heart, that I try to write an obituary of my father, Ira rose.  He was born March 5, 1897, and died July 20, 1971.  Making his stay on earth 74 years, 4 months, 15 days. He was the son of john and Centhia Ann Rose.  They both preceded him in death. He had five brothers and three sisters. all five of his brothers have preceded him in death, leaving three sisters, Sarah Ratliff, Dovie Coleman, and Delphia Mullins to mourn his loss.  Daddy married my mother Ruthie Elkins.  Mother preceded him death. To this union was born nine children: Gracie Davis, Elsie Lawson, Esther Stewart, Ethel Rose, Edna Reed, Bennie, Joe, Donald, LonzieRose.  Ethel and Edna preceded him in death, leaving the rest of us to mourn his loss. Daddy was married to Mary May in 1953, who had seven children whom Daddy came to love as his own:  Olive, Ann, Joyce, Nell, Stella, Della and Akron, Jr.  Daddy had 39 grandchildren and 43 great grandchildren.  Daddy never made an open confession and joined any church.  But he lived a good life before his children and he always taught us the good way to live.  I believe with all of my heart that Daddy is gone to rest.  I hope to meet him again, some day.  I want to say to the rest of the children. If, you ever want to see Daddy and Mommy again just get ready to meet Jesus.  His memorial will be preached at the Buddy Ratliff Cemetery at Lookout, Kentucky, on the fourth Saturday and Sunday in July.  Brothers Called, Elders John M. Justice, Albert Hamilton, Bob Hunter, Calvin Mullins, Charles Ramey, Monroe Jones, Perry Jones.  Everyone is welcome. 
Written by his broken hearted daughter Gracie Davis  Route 3, Box 232, West Salem, Ohio

Rose, Isaac   It is with a sad heart and the help of the Lord that we try to write this obituary of our Daddy, Isaac Rose.  He was born July 20th, 1898 at Jenkins, Kentucky and departed this life July 15th, 1971 being 72 years, 11 months, and 25 days.  he was the youngest child of Samuel and Jaley Powers Rose.  To this union was born the following children:  Patrick, Martha, Melissa, Ellen, Lindsey, Melvin, Bertha, and Isaac. Of these only one brother Melvin, survives.  He was married to Vina Jane Vanover in December 1931, who survives along with the following children: alma, Estelle, Edith, Ella, Jim, Emile, Douglas, and Windell.  an infant, Gerald preceded him in death in 1938. There also survives 22 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren along with a host of relatives and friends to mourn his loss. Daddy made his profession of faith and was accepted into the Maggie Home Church of the old Regular Baptist Church of Jesus Christ in August 1935 and was baptized by Brother Joshua Hicks and Brother Anthony Hamilton.  We have every assurance that Daddy is at rest with Jesus.  Words cannot begin to express how much we will miss him, but knowing he is at rest with his Savior makes our burden easier to bear.
Written by loving Children

Slone, Bessie Thornsbury  I, a young servant of God, will try to write an obituary of my blessed mother, Bessie Slone, who passed through the immortal gates of glory, where all nature is left behind.  God permitted mom to stay on this earth 61 years, 2 months, and 18 days before sending his angel to take her home, where there will be no sorrows or sickness.  There she can sing that new song and give God the praises forever.  Surviving mom are a husband, Elmer Slone, and five sons:  Omer and Alex of LaGrange, Ohio; Nelson of Elyria, Ohio; Paul of Shelby, Ohio, and Jerry of Shiloh, Ohio, and three daughters:  Evalee Slone and Minnie S. Forbush of LaGrange, Ohio and Mary L. Ramsey of Olmstead Falls, Ohio; a mother Minnie Thornsbury; two brothers and two sisters: 22 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.  Mom was baptized into the Old Regular Baptist Church fifteen years ago and was a faithful member until her death, November 27, 1969.  She surely has been a great servant for God, always devoted to the cause of Christ, with much humility and compassion. "redeeming love" has bee  her theme, she was never harsh or critical but always kind and tender toward her children and her friends and strangers, too.  She had a gift for giving encouragement a the darkest hour. There are four of us children following her footsteps, a testimony to her example, and I pray much that Dad and the other four will turn to Jesus and meet Mom in Heaven.
A servant in Christ, Brother Nelson Slone

Vanderpool, Henry  By request of his weeping sister, Edith Tuttle I will try to write an obituary of Henry Vanderpool.  He was born September 30, 1929, the son of Woots and Martha Vanderpool of Floyd Co. Kentucky, who preceded him in death.  Henry died march 13, 1970 at the Willard Hospital after a very brief illness. He is survived by one brother, Robert Vanderpool, of Michigan; 4 sisters, Margaret Rook, of Willard, Ohio; Mary Mosley, Minnie, Ky., Dolly Ratliff, Martin, Kentucky; and Edith Tuttle of Willard, Ohio, with whom he made his home. Henry never professed any religion or joined any Church, but I was told by his family that he had been praying, he always had respect for the brothers and sisters when we were called to their home to church.  he was always there to listen and treated us with kindness. So I want to say to Edith and the family, if Henry did make peace with the Lord he is jut out of his suffering and, if any of you children, haven't made peace with the Lord, I beg you to repent and be ready when the death angel calls.                  Elder Savel Combs
Note:  Henry Vanderpool Memorial to be preached 5th Saturday and Sunday in august 1971.  Saturday at Little Bethel church and Sunday at Bro. Wriley Tuttle home.  Elder Frank Harvey to conduct the services.  Other preachers to attend, Savel combs, Bill Collins, James Branham, Buck Tuttle, David Pullen, and Don Gibson.

Wendt, Marie  By request I will try in my weakness to write the obituary of a dear Sister in Christ to-wit Sister Marie Wendt.  She was the daughter of Bro John Russ Dixon and sister Tishie Brown Dixon. born in Letcher Co. Ky.  on April 8, 1914.  Deceased this life at her home in Bullitt Co.Ky.  April 9, 1970. god blessed sister Marie to live upon his earth 56 years.  then I feel he came and took her to his home, that she had longed for so long. sister Marie grew up in Letcher co., Ky., leaving there when but a young girl going to the state of Michigan to work.  There she met and married Walter Wendt, who survives. I can truthfully say he was a very dear and devoted husband, ever concerned and provided for sister Marie's needs and wants during their many happy years together.  Sister Marie leaves to mourn her passing three sisters, Vera Campbell, Cornettsville Ky., sister Dana Combs, and Agnes Whitaker both of Louisville, Ky.  two brothers, Glenn Dixon of Detroit, Michigan and Bro Boyd Dixon of Rome City, Ind.  Several years ago sister Marie saw herself lost of her many wrongs, sister Marie felt with all heart that God had forgiven her.  She went home to the Little Ida Church and told the good things the Lord had done for her.  She lived happy in the Little Ida Church for many years. Sister Marie took sick with that awful disease, Cancer.  She moved to Lou, to be near her mother and sisters.  surely God will bless you Agnes and sister Dana for caring for Sis like you did.  I went with Bro. Akers and Bro. Paul many times to sister Marie during her long illness. You would always find her reading her Bible and talking of the goodness of the Lord   I have seen her shout and praise God so many times  The evening before she departed for Heaven, she couldn't speak.  She would look up and point her little hand to Heaven. A few months before she passed away, she brought her membership to the Antioch Church.  I feel with all my heart I will see sister Marie in the morning of all mornings. Sleep on sister Marie, rest, and some sweet day I feel you will get up with a body like unto Jesus.  Go home to a land of pure delight where you will have a tongue to praise our Savior forever.  In my closing may I say to Mr. Wendt, may God bless you in your lonely hours.  Look for that day when you can say, "Marie, I am coming home."  To her Bros, Sisters, and Dear Mother, look up, put your trust in God and some sweet day you can meet Sis, in a land of peace, where we won't get sick, only live to praise our Savior forever in a land of everlasting beauty.  I am sure sister Marie would be happy to know that sister Dana has filled her seat in the old church, and would want you all to meet her in glory.
Humbly yours in Christ,  Bro. Hillard Newsome

Wicker, Virgie  born March 26, 1889 was married to Rob Wicker who deceased this life in 1939.  Unto this union was born 10 children at which 6 of them preceded her in death, 4 still living. Mrs. Flossie Corkhill, Huntington, Indiana; Mrs. Minnie Triplett, Tiro, Ohio; Mrs. Elmer Wicker, Tiro, Ohio and Mr. Mitchell Wicker, Detroit, Michigan, one stepdaughter, Carrie Watts, Mousie, Ky; two sisters living.  Mertie Triplett, Marion, Ohio; Mary Parson, Whitehouse, Ky.  Four sisters and five brothers preceded her in death.  Twenty-four grandchildren and nine step-grandchildren, thirty-one great-grandchildren and a whole host of relatives and friends to weep her loss.  Sister Virgie belonged to the Old Regular Baptist Church for about 50 years and no doubt in my mind lived a faithful life until death.  She was very ill for several days in the Shelly Memorial Hospital.  November 22, 1970 at 2:30, Sunday afternoon the death angel slipped in and took her form us, making her stay here on earth 81 years, 7 months and 4 days.  She resided at Tiro, moved from Knott County, Mousie, Kentucky in 1951 and her membership was at the Little Rebecca Church.  Her seat will be missed, but we feel God had a better home in Heaven.  Children I know you will miss mother, but look at the bright side.  Her suffering is over, her race is run. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.  They do rest form all their labor.  May I say this to the family.  Mother's footsteps will be safe for you to follow.  She will be hid away for awhile, but God has a set time.  He will call and she will answer, get up and go shouting to her sweet Eternal Home.  Farewell
Written by her Brother in Christ   Elder Claude Ousley

William, Noah  It's with much sadness and broken hearts, we will try with the help of God, to write an obituary of our beloved brother and cousin, and we so deeply feel a Brother in the Lord.  Noah Williams was born January 30th, 1921 at Honaker, Ky., and deceased this life July 31st, 1970 making his stay on earth forty-nine years, six months, and one day.  He was the son of Tan and Tona Moore Williams.  In the year of 1940, Brother Noah, entered the U.S. Army.  He left the U.S. for the Pacific,  December 1941 and returned back to the U.S. January 1945 serving most of his time across the sea.  In April, 1945, he received an Honorable Discharge, so we feel with our hearts, that he served his country well.  He received the following medals: Combat Inf. Badge, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal.  As a Sgt. Occupational Specialty Rifleman, he fought in five major battles or campaigns, for which he received the Purple Heart, for wounds he suffered in the defense of his country.  On February 5th, 1945, he was married to Martha Roberts, and to this Union, there were no children.  He had five brothers and six sisters.  A loving brother, Okie and father precede him in death.  We feel their souls are in the Paradise of God this day.  He leaves a loving wife, a dear mother, four brothers, six sisters and a host of friends to mourn his passing.  We feel, our loss is Heaven's gain.  He was loved by all who knew him.  He joined the Old Beaver Church of the Old Regular Baptist on Feb 19, 1967, and was faithful to fill his seat and to help do all he cold for the church.  He was an Ordained Minister and way so willing to go and do the work he felt God had laid upon him to do.  He was attending the Northern new Salem Association at the Little Polly church in Michigan.  When singing began, he helped sing the Songs of Zion, and shortly after prayer, he was taken with a heart attack and was taken to the hospital, A very few minutes later, he was pronounces dead.  many brothers and sites, that were attending the association were deeply saddened by the news of his death.  many tears began to flow from their eyes, and we know that we will all  miss him deeply.  But sister Martha, no doubt in our minds, you will miss him more than all of us.  You have lost a loving husband, the best friend you ever had on this earth, but we feel not for long. We feel we will meet him again on the Resurrection Morning on the last day.  The Bible says, blessed in the dead, that dies in the Lord, Henceforth, says the Spirit, they do rest from their labor, and their works do follow them. so we want to say to his brothers and sisters, you that are still in sin.  If you want to see Brother Noah again, you must fallout with sin, quit doing the things of the world and be born again. That is the only way you can go to Heaven.  Sister Martha, we feel it won't be long till you and Noah will meet again, never to part no more.  May God bless you to bear your heartache.  There so many more good things we could say about Brother Noah, but space will not permit.  We will close this obituary, by thanking all the good brothers and sisters, friends and neighbors, who lent a helping hand in the time of sorrow.  May God Bless You all, is our Prayer.
His Memorial will be preached the third Saturday and Sunday in August 1971.   
Written by a broken-hearted cousin and brother, who will miss him deeply,
Elder Delmer Williams and Elder Clifford Williams

Williams, Silas C.  Was born April 5, 1894 to jimmy and Cynthia Case Williams, at Honaker, Kentucky.  he was married to Cassie Moore January 1, 1917.  To this union was born 11 children.  One son preceded him in death, leaving Delmar and Amos of Newark, Ohio, Dingus and Allen of Shelby, Ohio, Ruford and Ballard of Honaker, Kentucky, Stallard and Howard of New London, Ohio.  Two daughters, Juanita Kidd of New London, Ohio and Vernita Made of Honaker, Kentucky.  He had 54 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren.  He has one brother and two sisters still living to weep over his loss here on earth.  On April 19., 1971, after the sun came out and warmed up the day he and Sister Cassie began to beautify their yard by planting flowers,.  Not really know that this would be the end of his work.  god had a more beautiful garden for him, when they had completed their flower garden.  He sat down on the porch to rest and Sister Cassie noticed he had gone to sleep.  God had given him that eternal rest.  This made his stay here 77 years and 14 days.  he was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church for 55 years.  His membership was at the Old Beaver Church. The writer truly believes, with the acquaintance and love, I had in my heart for him, he was a brother indeed and he loved his family and all his brothers and sisters so much.  Matters not what hour of the night they would come in, he would always be waiting to greet them with love and do everything he could to provide comfort for them.  He worked hard all his life and loved to go to church.  He always loved good strong preaching and was a wonderful singer.  I know the Old Beaver Church, his children, and sister Cassie misses him so much.  God loved him so well he just called him home to Glory, because the bible says, "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord for henceforth they are at rest from all their labor."  I believe his work will follow on after him.  Dear children, God has hid him away in the grave, but he has a set time he will call, and Brother Sie will answer, so may I say to you, those that don't know God  in the Pardon and Remission of your sin, if you want to see Daddy again please let me beg you, pray to god.  have your sins blotted out and then you can go home to live with him and Mom Forever.  So farewell, May God bless everyone of Brother Sie's family
Elder,   Claude Ousley