THORNTON UNION ASSOCIATION
    Old Regular Baptist of Jesus Christ
The Thornton Church
Mayking, Letcher County Kentucky
August 20, 21, 22 1982

OBITUARIES

Submitted by Peggy Mullins Brock

Barker, Neal-was born April 27, 1902 and died August 19, 1981, making his stay on earth 79 years, 3 months and 23 days. He was the son of the late Joseph and Sarah Baker and one of fourteen children. He was married to Emily Ross Barker on August 25, 1926, and to this union two children were born, a daughter and a son. Survivors include his wife, Emily, one son, Harold Barker, Hazard, Ky., and one daughter, Betty Barker Mullins, Jackson, Ky.,; five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. He was a member of the Little Samuel Memorial Regular Baptist Church for 37years, and an Ordained Deacon for several years, a member of the Masonic Lodge 929, Vicco, Ky.; a member of the Eastern Star Elizabeth Chapter 145, Hazard, Ky.; a retired coal miner; and a Kentucky Colonel. He was a wonderful loving father and a good husband. He spent most of his life in Perry Co., Ky. and was known and loved by many friends there. He always greeted everyone with a smile. He had a talent for making others smile and be happy along with him. His passing has left us lonely and we know that will never be able to fellowship with him again on this earth. -We know we cannot bring him back but through God's great love and the blood of Jesus Christ, His son, we will be able to go to him.

Bentley, Lula Holbrook - was borned September 4,1904 to the late Miles M. and Flora Collins Holbrook. She entered eternal life on Sunday, July 26, 1981 at the Illeni Hospital in Siluis, Illinois. She had a good life up until a few months before she went home to be with the Lord. She had lots of pain, but now she will have no more pain and sorrow. She married John H. Bentley March 13,1924, and to this holy union were born eight children. Her beloved husband preceded her in death. She is survived by four children; Flora Flanagan of Colona, Illinois, John H. Bentley of Branson, Missouri, Melvina McKenzie of Euless, Texas, and E.M. Bentley of Dallas, Texas, twenty grandchildren, ten great grandchildren; one brother, Arius Holbrook, of Mayking, Kentucky, Nanie Caudill and Lizzie Webb of Whitesburg, Kentucky, and Hazel Brown of Melvindale, Michigan. For a brief time, she was married to George M. Fields who preceded her in death in March of 1981. She was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church for forty-two years. We that knew her truly loved her and will miss her in so many ways; but we are so grateful that God gave us this fine Christian lady to cherish and love forever. The verse below expresses so adequately the feelings we felt to those of you that shared our love for Mom, and our grief at losing sight of her for awhile; but, we will see her again.
Perhaps you sent a lovely card, Perhaps you were not there at all,
Or sat quietly in a chair, Just thought of us that day,
Perhaps you sent a funeral spray Whatever you did to console our hearts,
If so, we saw it there. We thank you so much whatever the part.
Perhaps you spoke the kindest words.
As any friend could say;       Written by her daughter   Flora Flanagan

Bentley, Timothy P.-Man that is born of woman is of few days, and full of trouble. He cometh forth as a flower, and is cut down, he fleeth also as a shadow and continueth not. Seeing his days are determined, the number of his months are with thee, thou hast appointed his bounds that he cannot pass. But man dieth, and wasteth away; yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he? Elder Timothy P. Bentley the son of Dolph and Hanna Younts Bentley was born at Payne Gap Kentucky on August 24th, 1911 and passed from this life on October 12th, 1981. He had lived a long and useful life. He was a very good neighbor, a good citizen, a hard working man, kind to the afflicted, the poor, the heartbroken. He always wanted to help some one if he could. He was a good worker in his church and wanted to always have some kind of a project going for the church. He has been missed for the past five years as he hasn't been able to come to church. His companion passed away six years to a day before he passed away. He was so good to her during her lifetime and took care of her so good throughout all her sickness. He wanted to talk about how he was going to see her and how happy they would be in the land that God is preparing for his people. He believed in a real heaven, a real and personal God, a God of love and compassion and one that would take care of us. He became a member of the Church many years ago and felt that the Lord had called him to preach. He started preaching many years ago and was ordained in the Little Colly Church in 1953. He was the Assistant Moderator of the Little Colly Church and loved his church above everything in this world. When we began to rebuild that church he always come with more than his share to help build it. He was faithful as long as he was able to come to be at the church on Saturday and on Sunday. He loved to do things for the church, he wanted things done for it as well as we could do so that the world would know that there was reality in serving the Lord. He had been taught by his mother from a child that there was a God that ruled this world and that if we wanted to meet in the world to come we must go to that God and ask Him to come into our lives and then live for Him. He had a picture of his mother being baptized into the church and he was very proud of that picture and of his mother. He leaves to mourn his passing four brothers; Daniel of Neon, John of Payne Gap, Sollie of Indiana, and Martin of Baltimore. He never had any children of his own but he loved children and was always good and kind to them and loved to do things for them. He leaves a lot of Lucy's nieces and nephews that he was always good to and he loved and often talked of them. Knowing how he lived, knowing how he believed, knowing how he wanted to serve God, knowing how he read and studied the Bible and "how he wanted to do the will of the Lord we know by all of these things that he is far better off this Friday than he was last Friday. His Spirit is with God who gave it, and his soul is under the altar of God and his natural body is awaiting the great Day of the Lord when all his children will come forth out of the grave to meet and be with the Lord forever and forever. So sleep on Brother Tim, we will see you in the land of the living where we will be separated no more and sick no more and lonesome no more and no more heartaches but all will be peace and joy forever and forever. By: Elder Raymond Collins

Case, Eula Lowe-With much sadness and sweet memories I will try to write an obituary of my mother Eula Lowe Case. She was born December 30th 1909 and departed this life February 7th at about 12:05 a.m. at her home. Making her stay on this earth 72 years 1 month and 7 days. She was the daughter of Willie Lowe and Dixie Smith Lowe both deceased. Her childhood was spent on the Right Fork of Brushy. She was raised by her grandfather Harrison Smith, and her grandHarrison Smith, and her grandmother Sarah Mead Smith. She left Brushy when she was about 46 years old. And spent the remaining years of her life on Dix Fork of Big Creek. She was married to Emmett Case on December 18th, 1928. To this union were born seven children: Magdalene Maynard of Canada, Ky., Moses of Sidney) Ky., Hilda Gooslin of New Carlisle, Ohio, Phillip E. of Canada, Ky., Paul D. of Sidney, Ky., Imalee, and Bennett Leon of Sidney, Ky. Eula was preceded in death by her husband Emmett in 1971, her son Emmett Leon in 1977, and her daughter Imalee in infancy. She leaves 5 children, 15 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. She has one sister Bernice Lowe Nameth of Morristown, Tennessee, one Half-sister Mae Maynard of Florida. Mom joined the Old Regular Baptist Church on January 2nd, 1955. She was received in the Pilgrim Home Church on January 22nd, 1955. She was baptized by her husband Elder Emmett Case, and took fellowship with Thornton Union in 1971. We feel that she has made a happy exchange and has gone on to rest to be with Jesus and her loved ones. May God bless those she left behind. To her children I say, don't forget the teachings and counsel that Dad and Mom gave you. And prepare to meet Jesus, Dad, Mom, Sister, and Brother in Heaven. Written by her daughter, Magdalene Maynard

Collins, Mattie - entered eternal life on Monday, September 13,1982 at the Whitesburg Appalachian Regional Hospital, in Whitesburg, Kentucky. Mattie was the daughter of the late Elija and Jane Craft Sergent. She was born April 3, 1911, being 71 years, 5 months and 10 days of age at the time of her passing. She is survived by 7 sons: Billy Ray Collins of Detroit, Michigan. Thurston Collins, Jr. of Cincinnati, Ohio. Lester Jay, Jessie Vaughn and Estill Harold Collins all of Crafts Colley, Ky. Bobby Joe and Windus Dean Collins both of Thornton, Ky. 9 daughters: Ruth Faye Sturgill, Marietta Adams and Norma Jean Adams all of Crafts Colley, Ky. Renavae Sturgill and Virgie Halcomb both of Dayton, Ohio. Alberta Mae Webb of Sergent, Ky. Lavetta Ann Combs of Thornton, Ky. Pauline Bates of Jenkins, Ky. Patricia Gayle Franklin of Ermine, Ky. 2 Sisters: Mary Tolliver of Whitaker, Ky. Virgie Cornett of Roswell, Georgia. Also surviving are 67 grandchildren,. 31 great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her passing. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thurston and one son, Roy.
Mother
In your cotton dress so neatly pressed
I see you in my mind
I think about the past gone days
When you were feeling fine.
The talks we had
The things you said
They way you looked at life
Are memories that come to me
When I lay down at night.
Your faith was strong
You believed in God
I admired your ability
You taught me how to stand alone.
You instilled these things in me.
The finer things you never had
You had a treasure all your own
You told us all before you left
About your beautiful home.
Your deep brown eyes
All glazed with pain
I won't see any more
They 're smiling now and the pain is gone
as you walk the golden shore
You were a joy
A precious jewel
There'll never be another
To fill a space or take the place
of you, My Dear Sweet Mother.
Written by her daughter, Ann Combs

Day, Rachel C. - It was with a mixture of sadness and joy that the husband and children of Rachel C. Day gave her up to the arms of Jesus on March 3, 1982. We were sad about losing her who had loved us so much, but we were glad that she finally met Jesus, whom she also loved so well. We know Jesus walked with her those last few steps because she told us so. She said she could see him and a smile spread over her face as she told us. She hugged each one of us, told each of us she loved us and then waved goodbye when Jesus told her to come. We released her when we knew that her suffering was nearly over and Jesus was waiting for her. Mother and Dad, Kenneth M. Day, were married on November 17, 1927 in Letcher County, Kentucky and had been married 54 years when she died. She was born January 9, 1907 to Jesse and Mary Miller Caudill in Letcher County. On the 50th wedding anniversary of Mother and Dad, seven of the children stood up with them in the Old Regular Baptist Church near Freetown and gave our permission for them to renew their wedding vows. Mother and Day moved from Day, Kentucky to Kurtz, Indiana in 1949 and realized they had left their home church behind. They discovered an empty building across the road from their new home, remodeled it into a church and found a preacher, Brother Dewey Sexton. They held church there the second Saturday night and Sunday for nearly 30 years. After Dad retired, and the congregation had overflowed the pews, Dad initiated the building of a new church near Freetown. He worked hard and they enjoyed four years of services before Mother died. Dad lined many of the songs and Mother's clear soprano voice rang out joyously each church time. Now that voice is surely singing in the Heavenly chorus. Many people said of Mother, "You may go to her home hungry, but you will leave filled. You may go to her home a stranger, but you will come away a friend." That was Mother. She leaves behind to mourn her husband Kenneth and five sons, Palmer, Glenn, Roy, James and Kenny and three daughters, Sylvia Ziegler, Helen Ayers and Anna Ruth Mikels. Also left in sadness are her brothers Henry and George Caudill and her sisters, Sara Ison and Gemelia Roark and one half-sister, Silar Brown. With love to you Mother, I wrote this. I hope that someday we can be together again. Your loving daughter, Helen Ayers

Eversole, Reba -age 59 of McDowell died at the Highlands Regional Medical Hospital at Prestonsburg following a long illness. She was born September 17,1921 at Hazard, Ky. The daughter of the late Henry Campbell and Ellen Baker Campbell of Hazard. Sister Eversole joined the Regular Baptist Church in 1962. At the time of her passing her membership was at the Birchfield Church at Pound, Va. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her husband Sam and four daughters: Helen Tackett and Sylvia Cornett of McDowell; Opal Hall of Grethel and Grade Gerkam of Celina, Ohio. Also three brothers, Herbert Campbell and Oscar Campbell of Hazard and Kearney Campbell of Madisonville; two sisters; Zola Stidham of Hazard and Mallie Caldwell of Hamilton, Ohio. Also eight grandchildren and one great grandchild. One son preceded her in death. She was a loving mother that always put the welfare of her children first. Written by: Elder Adrian Hall

Frazier, Dan D. -son of Nancy and B.N. Frazier, was born at Oscaloosa June 30, 1892. He passed from this life at the Whitesburg Hospital, March 21, 1982, being 89 years, 8 months and 21 days of age at his passing. Dan was a member of the Thornton Regular Baptist Church at Mayking. A veteran of World War I, a member of Whitesburg Lodge, V.F.W., and American Legion. Dan served as our Circuit Court Clerk, from 1936 until 1942, worked as a coal weigh man at Thornton for about 10 years. Dan was married to Lola Frazier at Uz, Kentucky, October 25,1919. Dan is survived by his wife, Lola; son, Billy Paul and brother, Johnny Frazier all of Whitesburg, Kentucky; one son, Ralph Frazier preceded him in death. Also surviving are a daughter-in-law, Carlene and grandson, Rocky Frazier of Blackey; grandsons, Paul Mark Frazier of Louisville, Scott Frazier of Lexington, Kentucky; grand daughters, Pamela Anderson and Autumn Frazier of Whitesburg; great great grandchildren, Blake and Ashley Anderson of Whitesburg and a large, large number of relatives and friends to mourn his passing.Kincer, Damon- God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, Psalm 46:11. In a hospital in Louisville, early in the morning, October 22, 1981 Damon Kincer left this world for a better one. After severe pain for several days, God came to his rescue and removed the suffering by sending angels to convey his spirit to his home in Heaven. While in great pain, Damon realized the end was near, he called for a minister, and made a confession of his faith. He told his son, Charles, for more than 30 years, he had been living for the Lord. He attended Church regularly. Early in life he took for his young bride Arizona Craft, the daughter of the late John H. and Lydia Kincer Craft. His widow and two children survive him, Charles Kincer of Louisville, Ky. and Barbara Skeens of Mayking, Ky. Also three lovely grandchildren: Michial David Skeens; Tracy Ann Skeens; Tiffany Renee Kincer. The following brothers and sisters also survive him; Delmer, Graham, David Jake, and Hazel Spangler all of Mayking, Ky. Manuel of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Charlie Lee, Salyersville, Ky. Susie Graham of Anderson Indiana; and Dorothy Collins of Isom, Kentucky. Damon attended the Whitesburg High School and after completing his junior year, due to a sick father, he left school and found a job in the mines in order to support the family. He regretted leaving school but the love for his parents far exceeded the desire for an education. For the next 45 years he spent in the mines working faithfully and diligently. Damon was an expert gun repairman, this perhaps was his outstanding hobby. He was good at carpentry, plumbing and electric work. In his earlier years he enjoyed hunting and spending his spare time in the woods. He was a member of the Game and Wildlife Club and believed in preserving our wildlife. His life was spent mostly on Pine Creek, he loved his home and his little family. He adored his grandchildren. The writer spent many happy days with him, we were very close, he had great confidence in me and related many of inward thoughts, he was a deep thinker. He read and studied the Bible almost daily. May God bless those he leaves behind, we would like to leave with you these words from Proverbs 3: 5-6; Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths.

Kincer, Mattie -Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth her meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. She is not afraid of the snow for her household are clothed with scarlet. Strength and honor are her clothing and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Favor is deceitful and beauty is vain; but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.A woman like the above "seeketh the praise of the Lord". She would rather have that than all the praises of this world. Her children praise her because she has taught them about the Lord. She has always taught them to be truthful, to be loving, to be upright, to be one that seeks wisdom and flees from the evils of this world. Aunt Matt taught her children to be one that eschewed evil and loved good. She wanted her family to have better things of this life and to have it better and more enjoyable than she had. These things will always be remembered by her children long after she has been sleeping beneath the sod in the valley and long after the riches of this world shall have perished but that virtue to be good to one another, that virtue to love one another, that virtue to be truthful and to have honor and integrity will still be lingering in their hearts long after this world shall have perished with the atomic bomb or any other destruction these things will carry you into glory land and to the land of the living. Aunt Mattie Kincer, the daughter of Benjamin Lee Kincer and Mary Jane Webb Kincer was born March 1, 1888 and passed from this life on January 3,1982 making her stay on this earth 93 years 10 months and 2 days. Hers had been a long and useful life, one of work and not of idleness, one of goodness and not of strife, one of pity and not of scorn, one of love and not of hatred and one of praise and not downgrading. Seventy-two years ago in 1910 she was married to James (Uncle Jim) Kincer and to this union were born nine children. One of them, Damon, having preceded her in death. About 15 years ago Uncle Jim went on to await the great resurrection and the going home of the children of God to be with the Lord forever and forever. Wherever the Lord is He will be. When the Lord comes back to this world to set up his Kingdom Uncle Jim and Aunt Matt will be with Him along with all the Saints of the Lord to worship Him and reign with Him forever and forever. Could you think of anything better? Forty-two years ago she became a member of the Thornton Regular Baptist Church at Mayking and has been a very devoted member. She was always ready to do her part to make the Church a better place in which to worship, warm in the winter, cool in the summer and above all to have love one for the other and to let brotherly love continue. When a member like Aunt Matt Kincer goes on they are always missed. Her love, her friendship, her devotion and everything that it took to make a good member was always in her mind. So sleep on Aunt Matt, you will be missed but we will look forward to seeing you on the trip to the land of the living. Aunt Matt leaves to mourn her passing four sons: Brother Delmer Kincer, Brother Charles Kincer of Salyersville, Ky, Brother Graham Kincer of May-king, Manuel Kincer of Grand Rapids and David Kincer of Mayking, Ky. Three daughters—Sister Hazel Spongier of Mayking, Ky., Sister Dorothy Collins of Isom, Ky. and Sue Graham of Anderson, Ind. One Brother-Richard Kincer of Detroit, Mich., Two sisters— Betty Standifer and Effie Smith of Tenn. She has 39 grandchildren and 52 great-grandchildren besides a host of friends and relatives. The Bravest battle that ever was fought-Shall I tell you where and when? On the maps of the world you will find it not-It was fought by the mothers of men. Nay, not with cannon nor battle shot-With sword, or nobler pen: Nay, not with eloquent words of thought-From mouths of wonderful men. But deep in a walled-up woman's heart-A woman who would not yield But bravely, silently bore her part-Lo! there was the battlefield. No marshalling troops, no bivouac song-No banners to gleam and wave But Oh! these battles, they last so long-From babyhood to grave.

Hall, Opal -daughter of Lydia Webb and John Polly, was born August 22, 1909. She passed from this life at the Whitesburg Hospital, Sept. 7, 1982, being 73 years and 15 days of age at her passing. Opal was a member of the Thornton Regular Baptist Church of May-king. She has been sick for the past 6 months. Opal was married to William E. (Bill) Hall at Mayking, Kentucky; November 18, 1927. He preceded her in death in 1960. Opal is survived by daughters: Loretta Adams of Whitesburg; Lillian Nease of Frankfort, Kentucky; Lara Craft of Whitesburg; Betty June Addington of Shelbyville, Kentucky; Son, Billy Joe Hall of Covington, Kentucky; Sister, Audrey Hubbs of Oak Ridge, Tennessee; 13 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and a large number of relatives and friends to mourn her passing. Opal and Bill had 2 children that preceded them in death, Claude L. and Lena Hall.
God's Promise
God gives grace for each trial.
And courage for each sorrow.
And faith to face in confidence
A blessed, bright tomorrow.

Jones, Sinda Perkins Craft - was born August 8, 1905 and died February 8, 1982. She was the daughter of Thomas and Rachel Patrick Oditt. When she was a young woman she was married to Henry Perkins of Wolfe County, Kentucky. To this union the following children were born to them: Gustine, Thomas, Gracie, Patrick, Lawrence, and Ernest. Sinda also raised a granddaughter Phyllis Hall. Sinda had two brothers, Albert and Henry Oditt and one sister Nora Chapman. Sinda's husband Henry Perkins was murdered when their children were very young and the responsibility of raising the children was left with Sinda. Her father and mother raised Thomas. Later she was married to Alonzo Craft of Morgan County, Kentucky. To this union one son Kenneth Ray Craft was born. Kenneth died with sugar diabetes at the age of twelve years of age. Alonzo Craft was an Old Regular Baptist minister and he and Sinda visited many old Baptist churches in different states. In 1963 Alonzo Craft passed into the great beyond and again Sinda was left alone. A few years later Sinda met Trubie Jones of Rowan County, Kentucky and was married to him. Trubie and Sinda had a few happy years together, but soon Trubie too crossed the great divide and Sinda was left alone. Her daughter Gustine was also called away in death. Soon Sinda moved to Plymouth, Indiana to be near her son Thomas and other children. At a young age Sinda joined the Wheel Rim Church of United Baptists and a few years later she moved her membership to the Redeemed Church of Old Regular Baptists. During the church services many times she would get happy and shout the praises of God. She always said that she loved the old time way of worship and was faithful to attend her home church as long as she was near the church. During the cold month of February she was found by one of her grandsons peacefully sleeping in death. It appeared to her family and friends that she had finished cleaning her house and laid down upon her bed for a night of rest, but it appeared that during her sleep the Master had called and she was gone. Her funeral was preached in the Redeemed church on a cold winter day. It was there in her home church where many of her relatives and friends bid her good-bye until an eternal day. Her body was taken to the Miller Cemetery in Wolfe County, Kentucky and laid to rest beside her mother to wait for the great resurrection morning. We trust her children and loved ones will never forget her good advice and will meet her again in a bright heavenly home. Written by a step-son Wardie Craft

Little, Lina -On May 6, 1982 as the sun was about to end another day, so was the life of Lina Hudson Tackett Little about to end. Lina was born May 7, 1885 and ended her earthly stay May 6, 1982, lacking 7 hours on the earth to stay 97years. She was the daughter of Jim and Sarah Hudson. In early life she married Oliver Tackett. To this union was born 8 children; 3 sons and 5 daughters. Oliver, 3 sons and 1 daughter preceded her in death. Later in life she was married to William Little who preceded her in death. She is survived by 4 daughters-Elsie Little, Martha Hampton, Anil Hampton, and Viola Little. She is also survived by 20 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and many relatives and friends. She was able to meet death calmly because she had prepared to meet the Lord in Peace over 80 years before. The 4th weekend in July in 1902 she joined the Old Regular Baptist Church and after telling an experience of grace was baptized by Elder John Akers. I have seen her shout the praises of the Lord many many times in my life, even at the midnight hour she has raised from her bed giving the Lord the Praise. The Lord was good to her blessing her to live eighty years after she was baptized. She departed this life near one sunset but as the sun of that eternal day begins to raise so will the body of Sister Lina and all the bodies of the saints raise to be forever with the God that she adored. Written by Martha Hampton Submitted by Elder Paul Hudson

McCloud, Abner Mac-was born April 12, 1900 to the parents of Jack and Betty McCloud of Butler, TN. He passed away at his home about 10:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 10, 1982 at the age of eighty-two. The Lord granted him his prayer that he would die at home and in his right mind. In the year of 1923 on June 23rd he was married to Nealie Gibson, who was to be his loving and faithful companion for some fifty-nine years. Mac and Nealie were blessed with nine beautiful children-six daughters and three sons. They are all living and are present here today. They are: Bernice Rhoton-Clinchport, VA; Betty Caudill-Hi Hat, KY; Anna Jo Bowen-Dearborn, MI; Ella Lea Matthews-Phoenix, AZ; Malcolm Ray McCloud-Prospect, OH; James Phillip McCloud-Marion, OH; Rhoda Katherine Langley-Plain City, OH; Larry Stanley McCloud-Marion, OH; Lanna Faye Veneable-Gate City, VA; He is also survived by seventeen grandchildren and six great grandchildren Also surviving are three sisters; Minnie Webb of Allen; Am Storie of Price and Louise Bunton of Butler, TN; and two brothers-Herb McCloud <>J Florida and Taylor McCloud of Dayton, OH. Brother Mac dearly loved his family. They were a very close family and he often spoke of their accomplishments and was proud of them. He looked forward to their visits and beamed with joy when he had been with them. He enjoyed his family from the oldest to the youngest great grandchild. He was a loving and understanding father but a strict one. He taught his children to love and respect their parents and others. Comments from some of his children are that he was not only a considerate father but a good companion and friend. He respected us and we respected him. One of his sons-in-law said that he was as close to him as he was to his own dad. He loved his companion and cherished their hours spent with each other. One always thought of the two of them together. But as much as he loved his family and companion, he loved his God and his Church more. He dearly loved his brothers and sisters in the Lord. He loved his neighbors-He loved people. He was baptized into the Church at Steels Creek by Elders Malk Wright and Earl Howard and felt his calling to the ministry and started preaching in 1934. He was ordained to the full function of the Gospel on the 12th day of January 1946. Elder Jerry Hall was moderator of the Presbytery and Millard Allen the Clerk. Brother Mac was faithful to his calling until death. Many people will remember him as a faithful reader of the Bible, and many received comfort from their conversation with him regarding the Scriptures. Brother Mac in his early ministry went far and near, through hot and cold, to preach the word and comfort those in distress. He served as moderator of several different churches and enjoyed this very much. He loved to preach and told Sister Nealie recently that he had nothing to live for since he was unable to attend church and preach the Gospel and enjoy his salvation. In visiting him shortly before his passing-he and I talked. He gave a beautiful testimony to me in his weak voice. He once again reaffirmed his faith in God and expressed his desire and readiness to go home. He was tired and wanted to go on to his Heavenly home. Brother Mac will be missed by his family, his neighbors, his Church, his many friends and most of all by his loving and devoted companion. Written by a Brother in Christ, Elder Adrian Hall.

Owens, Elder Eugene-It is with a heavy heart and trusting in God that I make an attempt to write an obituary of my husband Elder Eugene Owens. One verse comes to mind, The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord. The Lord took my husband to his heavenly home on August 8, 1981. He was born Feb. 28, 1928, being 53 years at the time of his passing. He was the husband of Betty A. Owens and to this union no children were born. Beside his wife he leaves his father, Garland Owens, of Tazewell, VA, 2 sisters, Phyllis Deel of Tazewell, VA. and Katherine White of Whitewood, VA., one brother, Leonard Owens of Evington, VA. Eugene was preceded in death by his mother, Princy Owens. On April 28, 1974 we both saw the need of a Savior. We called on the name of the Lord and felt like we had been born again, went into the water and was baptized into the fellowship of the Living Faith Church. Thank God that Eugene called on that God, and he heard his prayers. He was ordained on Dec. 31, 1977. He traveled near and far to visit the churches. Many times he was not physically able to go but he just wanted to do whatever the Lord called him to do to be a servant of the Lord. He was willing to be used in whatever the Lord wanted. I will never forget the night the Lord called my husband home to be forever with the Lord. Billy Owens came to see him. They had a wonderful talk on the Bible. One thing I remember him saying is we are all like a link in a chain. He asked Billy to put his hands on his chest and pray with him.One minute he was praying, the next minute he just went to sleep. I am so thankful that God took him in just a beautiful way. He is just resting from all his labor in that city whose builder and maker is God. In that city where is no tears, no heartaches, no more crying but all is peace, joy and happiness. Gene is greatly missed in the church as well as by the many relatives and friends that he leaves because he let his light shine that others might profit from it and that he might have a home in Glory. He is just resting at the altar of God until that great resurrection morning when the trumpet of God will awaken him from his sleep. I will close the obituary by saying sleep on "Babe", someday I will be following you. Written by his broken-hearted wife, Betty Owens
Through Christ in Memory of Eugene Owens
He loved his brethren and his friend, for he said until the end.
He was so humble and meek you could see Christ in him every day of the week.
He was blessed to serve God well, he kept it no secret for he had to go and tell.
He suffered grief and physical pain, but I never heard him complain, for he just wanted to praise our God's Holy name.
I will remember him most of all, for he was so full of love that it made him feel small.
Love will move mountains and cause death to have no sting, for he proved that when he heard the death bell ring.
We all have to die but we know not what hour, may we go to sleep with Christ with a prayer.
He said love keeps us linked together like a chain, may we praise God and ask for more men like Eugene.
He fought a good battle with the word of "Love", when he had finished God took him above.
By, Billy D. Owens
May God bless this family as he has blessed our brother Eugene Owens, may others see the love of Christ in us and turn to him and praise him. The Lord Jesus Christ only took what was his.

Riley, Alia-lived a good Christian life, it was always a joy to meet her in church on Sunday morning. Her pleasant smile and words full of joy and cheerfulness were an inspiration. We will miss you Alia, but memory is one gift of God that death cannot destroy. So sleep on now and take your rest until that great resurrection morning and we will meet you around throne of God and together hear those blessed words, "You have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many." By: Sister Jackie Riley
They are not lost who find the light of sun and stars and God.
Your gen tie face and patient t smile with sadness we recall. You had a kindly word for each and died beloved by all.
The voice is mute and stilled the heart that loved us well and true, Ah, bitter was the trial to pach from one so good as you.
You are not forgotten loved one nor will you ever be, As long as life and memory last we will remember thee.
We miss you now, our hearts are sore as time goes by we'll miss you more, Your loving smile, your gentle face no one can fill your vacant place.

Sexton, Bennett -son of Dewey and Ila Richardson Sexton, was born in Knott Co. on February 22, 1922, passed from this life of a massive heart attack in the office of the Banks Funeral Home, Whitesburg, Sunday, May 2, 1982, being 60 years, 2 months, and 10 days of age at his passing. On November 25, 1942, Bennett married Mary Belle Webb. For many years he has been a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church, the Hester Chapter of the Eastern Star No. 54, the Whitesburg Lodge No. 754 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5829, Whitesburg, serving as staff sargent in World War II. Surviving Bennett are his wife, Mary Belle; his son, Greg, and daughter-in-law, Karen; sisters: Agnes Crawford, Frankfort, Ky., and Pat Brown, Charlestown, Ind., brothers, Owen of Norton, Va., and Buford, Winter Gardens, Fla.. with many, many relatives and friends to mourn his passing. Loretta and I cannot put into words what Bennett has meant to us and how he has touched our lives. We could always depend on him that every thing would be taken care of. It has been our pleasure to have had him with us this four years. God give us the Serenity to accept the thing we cannot change, Courage to change the things we can, and Wisdom to know the difference. Now the laborer's task is o'er. Now the battle day is past; Now upon the farther shore Lands the voyager at last. Father, in thy gracious keeping, Leave we now thy servant sleeping. "Earth to earth and dust to dust," Calmly now the words we say, Left behind, we wait in trust For the resurrection day. Father, in thy gracious keeping, Leave we now thy servant sleeping.

Sparkman, Marion -With a sad and broken heart, and by the help of God, I will try to write the obituary of Marion Sparkman. Marion was born the son of Ira G. and Sarah Margaret Sparkman on August 17, 1904 and departed this life and entered his eternal rest July 11,1982. Marion met Maude Reynolds and was married to her March 18, 1925. To this union was born nine children. Three sons; Marion Sparkman, Jr., Rankin Sparkman preceded him in death. Marion leaves behind to mourn his loss his loving wife Maude and one son Billy Ray Sparkman of Xenia, Ohio, and five daughters, Vivian Adams of Taylor, Michigan; Creva Jewel Hill of Dayton, Ohio; Mary Margaret Back of Hamilton, Ohio; Betty Jo Ison of Letcher, Ky. and Peggy Lou Collins of Red Fox, Ky., He also leaves one brother, Irvin Sparkman of Pippa Passes, Ky., and 5 sisters; Ollie Thornsberry of Pippa Passes, Ky., Bertha Sparkman of Topmost, Ky., Stella Watson of Way land, KY., Sally Holbrook of Pedro, Ohio, and Katie Sturgill, Lackey, Ky.. His presence will be greatly missed. To me Marion was a man in which I could spot his life nowhere. He was a most kind and loving father. He labored all his life for his children. In July, 1949, Marion was baptized and was a member of the Little Samuel Memorial Church at the time of his death. I feel with all my heart that Marion's soul is gone to rest under the altar of God. While his body sleeps in the ground at Cornett Hill the birds will sing and the flowers will bloom. His presence will be missed but his precious memories will live on and on. He bore his sickness with much patience and I feel he has reaped his reward. If you ever want to see Marion again you will have to go through the same door he did and that is Jesus Christ. God bless you all. Written by his Grandson  Danny Adams

Tackett, Beckie Lynn-It is with much sadness that I will try to write an obituary of my beloved baby. She was the daughter of Gary and Janie Tackett of Harold, Kentucky. She was only 3 months old when it pleased the God of all Glory to call my baby home. We found it dead in the bed and it was still warm and its grandfather gave it mouth to mouth resuscitation but he could not revive it. I couldn 't understand why God called my baby away but Brother Johnie Thacker told me that God had a purpose in it and we couldn't question God's power and God made a way and went and prepared a place that we could meet again and live forever and that my baby was just another flower in God's bouquet. Brother Johnie Thacker and several of the brethren from Thornton Union Association attended to it's funeral; so, they told us if we ever wanted to see our little baby again we would have to repent of our sins and be born of God's spirit. Then, we all could meet in a country where there wouldn 't be no more dying, no more separations or heartaches to bear. May God bless this family and give them a heart and mind to pray and to look to God for his great mercy. When trials and troubles arise, always go to God in prayer. He is a shelter in the time of a storm and he won't turn no poor begging man or woman away because he has no respect in persons but ever nation, kinder, tongue, and people. He that feareth God and worketh righteousness excepted with the Lord. So, I will have to close by saying, May God Bless this family is my prayer. Written by: Brother Johnie Thacker

Tolliver, Ritter Goins - daughter of Julia Hart and Joseph R. Sergent, was born at Thornton, Kentucky, May 31,1905. She passed from this life at the Whitesburg Hospital, July 12, 1982, being 77 years 1 month and 11 days of age at her passing. Ritter was a member of the church for a number of years. She was married to Cass Goins in 1921, he passed away August 25, 1945. She was married to Guss Tolliver in September 1947, he too preceded her in death. Ritter has been real sick for the past 2 weeks. She is survived by daughter, Gladys Horn of Thornton; Sons: Homer Goins of Taylor Michigan; Gomer Goins of Rosslyn, Garden City, Michigan; Hoover Goins of Democrat, Kentucky; Kenneth Goins of Brighton, Michigan. Sisters: Nannie Lucas, Cora Goins, Julia Lucas all of Thornton, Kentucky. Brother Dock Sergent of Chicago, IL. 15 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and a large, large number of relatives and friends to mourn her passing,

Wagner, Elder Dave-As peacefully and as quietly as he lived, last Saturday morning August 29, 1981 did Elder Dave Wagner pass from this world. In the Whitesburg Regional Hospital, in the mid-morning hours, he slipped from this world to one that is heavenly-one so far superior to the one he left behind. Dave left no doubts in his life as to his future. His faith was firmly implanted in his savior, his Lord. We have heard, him quote these lines from the pulpit, " Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Today, he is enjoying that peace and rest. Elder Dave Wagner, the son of Charlie and Lettie Kincer Wagner was born November 11, 1917 and departed from this life August 29,1981 making his stay on earth 63 years 9 months and 18 days. His was a busy and active life. On December 23, 1935, he was married to Rosie Webb, daughter of W.M. and Jane Gibson Webb. His widow and eight children survive him, Elder Robert Wagner of Whitesburg, KY.; Linda Lou Hughes of Ermine, KY.; Donald Lee Wagner of Pittsboro, IN. Lettie Jane Blair of Connersville, IN.; James Darrell Wagner of Connersville, IN.; Ellen Lucille Compton and Henrietta Wright of Mayking, Ky. Also 16 grandchildren. Also two brothers survive him; Henry Wagner of Middletown, Ohio and Jimmie Wagner of Mayking, Kentucky; and one sister Mary Brock of Danville, IN. Early in life, Dave chose mining as his career. He was devoted to his work. He spent many long hours underground to earn money to support his family, though the work was hard, he never complained. He often missed work on Saturdays in order to be at Church on that Day. He had a great interest in the welfare of the Church and wanted us to live in peace. He gave freely of his earnings. In 1945, he found Jesus precious to his soul and joined the Thornton Church, as a member for 36 years, 34 of them were spent in the ministry. He had the honor of serving the Church as the assistant moderator for many years. For the past two years he served as assistant moderator of the Thornton Union Association. In the early years of his ministry he held services in the homes in and around Mayking. Many young people turned to the Lord because of his influence. Dave's faith in our Lord was immovable. The way he lived in his home and in his community can be seen today in the lives of his children. His children are living a life any parent would want their children to live. They are good Christian children They loved their father. They have no regrets except the loss they feel Some day they will see father again, in a land where they will separate no more, in a land of joy and peace. The passing of Dave, our friend and brother in the Lord leaves an emptiness that will not soon be filled. Although death is the expected end for every mortal, its occurrence always find a few or many stricken loved ones for whom life can never be as full as it once was. The warm winds of spring that carries the hint of new life might be compared with the new life that our friend and neighbor is now enjoying on the other shore. "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid".

Webb, Chester -"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?' As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. " Romans 8: 35-39. Every believer in Christ finds the way discouraging at times with tribulations and sorrows; but there is victory through Christ even when a loved one is taken away. For though they are out of sight, we have not lost them; even death cannot separate us from our Lord, and we know that our believing friends who are gone on before are present with the Lord. Chester Webb was born on August 9, 1921 the son of Fred and Susan Webb, and was married to Doris Adams on October 10, 1941. From this marriage two children were born, Chesta Sharon Brown, and Fred Webb. He passed away at home Jan. 5,1982. Chester attended college and taught school for a few years, and when World War II became a reality, Chester like so many others served his country with a tour of duty in the South Pacific and he was faithful and obedient to that call. Upon his discharge from the service he became a partner in the Appalachian Marble and Granite Works as well as Manager and was employed there until his death. He will live forever through the beauty of the work that can be seen in the monuments which he created throughout Kentucky and Virginia. Chester was a member of Whitesburg Masonic Lodge 754, an active member of the Whitesburg Lions Club for 21 years, a member of the VFW and the American Legion. I have known Chester and counted him as a loyal friend since he was 15 years old, long before he became a member of our family. We were roommates in college. Chester, at a very early age was faced with tragedy when he lost his father in a coal mine accident, and I can recall that incident with sadness. Aunt Susan, his mother, accepted the responsibility of raising a son and two daughters. Chester was a good son, and was devoted to and assisted his mother all through her life. Aunt Susan trusted in God and her favorite Bible verse was Psalm 91:2 "I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress; my God: in him will I trust." She preceded him in death in November, 1978. Paul in II Timothy 4: 6-8 said, and I would like to substitute Chester: "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge shall give me at that day: and not to me only but unto all them also that love his Appearing." Chester was a devoted husband and father, he was interested in the welfare and success of his family. He wanted his children to be successful in life and love one another. Chester could have boasted of many things in life, but was reserved and quiet in his manners and listened to others. He attended the Thornton Church at May king, Ky. Chester leaves to mourn his passing, his wife, Doris Webb; a daughter, Chesta Sharon Brown, Calvert City, Ky., and a son, Fred Webb, of May-king, Ky. Four grandchildren: Alyn and Ashley Brown, Tracy and Travis Webb; Two sisters, Mrs. Eva Mae Ison, Huntington, West Virginia, and Mrs. Emogene Webb, Hope, Indiana, and hundreds of friends and relatives. Today we have lost a relative, friend, neighbor, father, grandfather, husband, and brother, but our loss is Heaven's gain. We say " So long, Chester". We will fellowship with you again at that Great Reunion. Brother-in-law  Stephen P. Adams

Williams, Irvine -The fear of the Lord prolongeth days (Proverbs 10-27). No one could dispute the fact that Brother Irvine Williams was a God-fearing man and nowhere have I been able to find a more glowing example of one of God's promises. Brother Irvine was born August 5, 1879 and passed on to his great reward August 26, 1981, making his stay on earth 102 years and 21 days. Early in life he was married to Mary Duff. They were blessed to have 8 children: Marie McIntosh, Pearl Hale, Orie Williams, Malta Carrol, Docie Wagers, Jack Williams, Florice Williams and Gertrude Brewer. After the death of Mary he married Bessie Deaton. They had no children. Brother Irvine was a pillar of strength in the church for many years, as long as he was able to attend, which was up until the last five years of life. He was a Deacon for many, many years and performed his duty well as long as he was able. He will be sorely missed by his Brethren and Sisters, as well as his many friends and relatives. He always lived a good, clean, humble life before men, never asking for honor or glory, just trying to do the will of God. I will close with this little Eulogy:
A Eulogy
Our brother now has left us; He's on that blissful shore. We loved him oh so dearly, But the Saviour loved him more.
He lived a life among us, Like a rose bush bright and fair The thorns he kept for his part While we enjoyed his flowers.
The thorns have now been all removed They '11 bother him no more, He's basking in God's sunshine On that everlasting shore.
Yes, we're quite sure he's blooming In that garden in the sky; And we can only see him If we 're faithful till we die.
By a Brother in the Lord, Elder Wesley Yonts.