OLD REGULAR BAPTIST
UNION ASSOCIATION
1947 OBITUARIES

 

Adkins, John--It is with a sad and broken heart that I would write and obituary of a loving father, John Adkins.  He was born October 4, 1878, deceased this life January 7, 1944.  He was married to Alameda Billiter the year of 191 and to them was born five children; one boy and four girls.  Three of the girls have professed a hope in Christ. He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church about the year of 1912 and was baptized by Elder Tom Thacker and lived a faithful member till death.  He was loved by all who knew him.  Father enjoyed good meetings.  He wanted the preachers to come to his home and preach for him as long as lived.  Father called us to his bed and told us of the beautiful home where he was going.  His soul is enjoying the company of departed loved ones in that land that never grows old; where friends never part and love ones never die.  His body is sleeping in the little mound on Chloe Creek near his home.  May the breeze of the summer blow lightly on his grave where his remains lie; may the snow of the winter  be light on his grave and over his last resting place, may the birds sing the sweetest songs till time Eternal.  A while before he died he asked Brother John M. Justices to preach his funeral.  He leaves five children to mourn his loss.   We feel ours loss is his Eternal gain. 
Written by his youngest daughter Mary Smallwood

 Baker, R. L. --Elder R.L. born May 12, 1885 and died May 7, 1947.H is age at death being sixty-one year, eleven  months and twenty four days.  He was the son of Elder R.A. Baker.  He was married to Mollie Hopkins December 31, s1906 and to this union six children were born, four girls, Mrs. Clara Owens Harlan Ky.,, Mrs. Ruby Jones Wise Va., Mrs. Bonnie Jessie, Wilmington Del, and Mrs. Ione York, Raleigh N.C,; two boys, Roscoe in the army and Bob at home.  Elder R.L. Baker professed hope in Christ and joined Old Regular Baptist church/  He was ordained  to preach in 1910.  He was one of the ablest defenders of this Doctrine of Christ among the Old Regular Baptist Church and tried in his last years to be willing servant t and please Him by his Grace to preach His everlasting Gospel, not to the praise of men but to Honor of Him who has called him to be a servant.  She never comprised with false Doctrine.  He told us all that he was ready to answer the call of the Lord and there was nothing in his way.  He said he had preached the truth and if he should lives a hundred years old he would preach the same Old Doctrine he had preached for 38 years.  This church will miss this wonderful counsel and the gift that God gave him to comfort people.  He leaves a wife , six children, eleven grand-children, three brothers, two sisters and host of friends to mourn his loss.  Everything humanly possible was done for him but all was in vain.   He came to the river as a brave soldier and gentles voice said “Come” and he gathered the Robe God had given , about him and went to meet the God he’s loved and served for almost forty years.  We hope our loss is  his eternal gain. 
Written by B. H. Baker

Baker, Sarah—It now becomes my duty to write the obituaries of my dear sister, Sarah Baker, and her husband, Jes Baker. Sarah Baker was the daughter of John Gibson. She was born in 1878; deceased this life 1945; being about 67 years old at her death. Jes Baker was the son of Sam Baker.  He was born in 1877; deceased this life in 1940.  They were united in matrimony in 1897 or 1898 and to this union were born 10 children; 5 boys and 5 girls, two girls of which preceded them in death to wit: Mrs. Mollie Anderson and Leota Baker, the rest are living, to with: Martin, Fred, Joel, Jes Jr., Johnnie; the girls, Mrs. Taulby Cantrell, Onecy and Malissie are married. Sister Sarah joined the Old Regular Baptist Church some several years ago as Ashcamp church and remained a faithful member until death.  She is missed her in the church as well as by her children.  Her husband never joined the church, but was a strong believer in the Old Regular Baptist. They are both sleeping side by side on a beautiful little mound near Brother. Cola Conns in Floyd County Kentucky.  They will sleep there until the resurrection trumpet sounds.  Then their bodies will be changed from a natural earthly element to a spiritual, heavenly, Christ-like element.  Children, if you want to be in that company, you must look to Jesus while time and opportunity afford you. I trust you will never forget the kind assisting and soothing words spoken by Brother Cola Conn during the passing away of your dear mother and father.
Written by J.M. Gibson
P.S. It is requested that their funerals be preached the third Saturday and Sunday in next June by Brother Cola Conn, Brother Shade Stanford. Brother Mitchell Smith, Brother Crocked Baker, and Brother Lonzo Baker at the Ashcamp Church at the mouth of Ashcamp Branch.

 Bartley, Sinda—it is with a sad aching heart I try to write an obituary of my dear mother, Sinda Bartley. She was born July 4, 1878: departed this life May 26, 1947.  She made her stay on earthy 77 years, 10 months and 22 days. She was the daughter of Wilson and Beaky Mullins. She was married to John Henry Bartley 58 years ago and to this union was born 4 children: three girls and one boy; one girl preceded her in death. She joined the Old Regular Baptist Church about eight years ago and lived a Christian life until death. She loved to hear the good old songs and preaching. She loved to have us children read the bible to her. During her sickness she was so patient and took her sickness so easy.  With all her pains she would say, “Lord you will be done.”  Mother has told me so many times in the past years she lived, “Haley, I can’t stay with you always, when I have to leave you don’t worry about me. I have a hope my home will be better than this one her.”  Her last few hours she would hold up her head so high like she was reaching up for something; work her fingers like she was telling God to come after her.  I believe with all my heart the angels came after mother and carried her away where there will be no pain and sorrow.  I will say to Nellie and Leonard, if you want to see mother again, you must get right with the Lord and put your whole trust in the Lord and he will show you the way.
From us is gone a loved one,
A voice we loved is still,
A place is vacant,
In our home,
Which never can be filled.
We loved her, yes, we loved her,
But Jesus loved her more,
So He called her
To yonder shining shore.
I can hear her sweet voice ringing in my ears so plain at times. She is missed by three brothers, us children, 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and a host of friends. She was loved by all who knew her. May God be with you all is my prayer.
Written by her broken-hearted daughter, Haley Stanley

Castle, Eura--It is with sad and unworthy feeling I attempt to write and obituary of sister, Eura Stanley Castle.  She was the daughter of Robv and Ruth Stanley.  She was born March 4, 21900.  In December 1917 she married Jimmie Hawkins and to this union was born three children, one girl and two boys, Effie, Erby and Calvin.  Her husband d was killed in the coal mines August 8, 1930.  She was married a second time to Eli Castle, to this union was born one child Eugene.  She joined the Old Regular Baptist church of Jesus Christ at little Zion Church, Norland Virginia, the third Saturday in Augusts 1931 and was baptized the following Sunday.  She lived a faithful member until death.  She died April 15, 1947 after a shorts illness.  She leaves to mourn her loss a husband four children , father, mother, two  brothers , Ceburn and Allen Stanley, two sister Pina Fleming and Viola Stanley.  Her father has professed a hope and joined the church since shake died.  We feel lour loss is eternal gain.  I want to say to all her unsaved relatives, if you ever expect to see Sister Eura again you musts repent of your sins and be born again, then you can meet her in the sweet bye and bye in heaven where you will never say farewell any more.  Ceburn, you and Allen have been good moral boys all your life.  I hope to see the day when you both will come to the old church telling what great things the Lord has done for you, and lives with fathers and mother, dies and al go home to Heaven where separation will be no more.  
Written by her sister-Viola Stanley and W. T. Swindall

 Clevinger, Mrs. Malvina—It is very, very sad for me to attempt to write an obituary of my loving mother, who passed away and bid this unfriendly world adieu, but she is enjoying the riches of our Heavenly Father. Mother is enjoying her rest and her sweet sleep.  Sleep on, mother, sleep on, till you are awakened by the Gospel trumpet and the Angels standing ready to receive you into the Heavenly Family.  When I last saw mother, she was ready to be lowered into the narrow tomb, and as I turned my back, I said, “good-bye, Mother, Goodbye” I left my sister, Martha, still standing weeping and many others. Mother prepared her burial clothes several years before she passed away. She would get them from the trunk and show them and with a smile ask us if we liked them and did we think they were pretty. Then she would fold them and lay them back in the trunk.  Then she would start telling me how she wanted the funeral carried on. I well remember, she said as the crowd marched from the ground of services and as they marched along slowly to sing, “Farewell, Vain World, I Am Going Home,” and I had this done.  So I will try to come to the obituary. My mother was born February 22, 1856, departed this life March 16, 1946; making her 91 years and 22 days old. She was married to John W. Clevinger about the age of 16.  To them were born seven children, four girls and three boys: five living and two passed away and gone. I hope they are with mother in Paradise.  Mother was baptized into the fellowship of the Old Regular Baptist Church by Elder Lewis Clevinger in the year of 1874.  She and father were immediately appointed Deacon and Deaconess and lived faithful and true lives in the church until death. Three of the children belong to the Old Regular Baptist—Vicy, Larkin, Martha and her husband Floyd Deel and they still press on to the better land. When I go to the old home, all I can see of them is their labor.  I can hardly keep from looking for father and mother, though I realize they can’t come to me, though by the help of God, I can go to them.
Written by Levi Clevinger, her son

 Coleman, Hawkins - It is with a sad feeling that I attempt to write and obituary of my dear husband Hawkins Coleman born at Rock House , Kentucky April 17, 1784 and departed this life February 13, 1947.  He was married to Ida Epling November 1907,  To them were born nines children two  of whom preceded him in death, seven children,  two boys and  five girls and his wife are left to  mourn the loss of father and husband.  He joined the Regular Baptist Church December 21, 1941 and lived a faithful Christian life in the church until his death.  He was good and kind to everyone and always wanted to attend church at every opportunity.  On February 10 he suffered a paralytic stroke and lived only three days and nights.  We believe he has reached a home far better than we had here as he trusted in God to take care of him and I k now scriptures say and his work shall follow him.  I have lost a good husband and d the children a good father.  The community has lost a good neighbor and church has lost a faithful member.  I believe that our two little children came after him on the night of February 13th and accompanied him home.   I want to say to all the children if you ever want to see father again you will have to make peace with God.  We miss him, yes, we miss him but we can meet him on yonder shore where parting will come never more.
 Written by his wife-Ida Coleman

 Coleman, Mary  If the Lord will direct my mind, I will write a short sketch in memory of my darling little baby, Mary Coleman.  She was born March 25 and died April 5, 1947.  She made her stay on earth 11 days.  I was taken to the hospital and left little Mary at home.  I was so sick nothing didn’t matter with me at the time. They told that my baby was sick and I cried and prayed God to make a way for me to go home.  It was dark, cloudy, and the snow was pouring but the next day the sun was shining bright and the doctor came in and said  you can go home Sunday. When I got home little Mary seemed to be getting along and was well. Mama told me that she prayed that it would live until I came home.  I kept her with me 5 days and the Lord took her home to heaven.  I feel to know that she is resting in the arms of Jesus and I hope to see her some sweet day.
Written by a heart-broken mother, Virgie Coleman

 Cooley, Josha—It is with a sad heart that I now attempt to write an obituary of my beloved grandfather, Josha Colley.  He was born January 15, 1865 deceased this life January 15, 1944; being 79 years old the day he died.  Grandpa never joined the church but he told a beautiful experience before he died. He said, “I have been warned and should have joined the church and have put it off until now.”  He said just before they took him to the Grundy Hospital, in which he died, that there was nothing in his way, that all he dreaded was the sting of death and the Lord dreaded that too.  Besides his relatives he leaves a host of friends to mourn his death, but we feel that our loss is Heavens great gain.
Written by his granddaughter, Mrs. Marcus H. Ramey

 Deel, Autie Jackson—It is with a sad and aching heart that I try to write an obituary of Autie Jackson Deel. He was born March 9, 1921 and died July 12, 1944; being 23 years, 4 months and 3 days old.  He was the son of Bart and Joicey Deel. He was called in World War II and lost his life in France in defense of his country. He leaves father, mother, five brothers and five sisters to mourn his loss. We hope our loss is Heaven’s great gain. When he would write to us he would ask us to pray for him to come back home and that leaves us to believe that he was trusting in the lord for his return and eternal life. Though his grave we may never see, God knows where our soldier lies beyond the sea.  Missed by all his family and friends. Funeral services were held by Elder Howard Colley, Elder John Hess and Elder Manis Mullins.

 Deel, Morgania—It is with a sad heart that I try to write a short obituary of my dear mother, Morgania Deel, who departed this life November 10, 1944.  She was the daughter of J. H. Deel and Sarahann Deel.  She was born December 29, 1875; making her stay her on earth 68 years, 10 months and 12 days. She was married to Josh Blankenship at an early age and unto this marriage was born one child. They separated and she then married my father Floyd Deel, and unto this union 11 children were born: eight girls and three boys. Three of her children preceded mother to the Glory Land. Mother leaves nine children; fifty grandchildren; three brothers; one sister and a host of friends and relatives to mourn her loss, but we hope our loss is her great gain.  She professed a hope in Christ and joined the Old Regular Baptist Church the Fourth Saturday in March 1919 and was baptized by Elder D. C. Church into full fellowship of the Russell Prater Church in which she lived a faithful member until death.  Mother was afflicted with heart trouble for a long time but she was not confined to the bed. She was suffering but bore her pain and suffering with much patience.  Often in her affliction she would have to sit up in bed at night; couldn’t lie down for the pain in her heart.  She had often told her only daughter that kept house with her that she would wake up some morning and find her dead in the bed. She had been feeling a little better for about two weeks and she told me that if I would come up and get her she would come out and stay two nights with me.  On Friday evening I went after her.  She was as well as common and got ready and started home with me. We had just got a little way from the house when the summons came for her.  My dear mother fell dead in the road. She never moved nor spoke after she fell. I felt, at that time that I could not live and bear the great burden.  But I believe that Jesus came to my relief and held me up as I sat in the road with my dear mother’s head on my lap until her children and friends came and by their help picked mother up and carried her back to the old home where she stayed until she was taken to the cemetery and lay to rest by the side of daddy, until the trumpet of God shall sound and awaken them out of their sleep. Mother spent many lonesome hours here on earth but by the life she lived before her children I feel that her joy is complete in that home where Jesus went to prepare for His /Children. Four of her children have professed a hope and belong to the Old Regular Baptist Church, while the others have not, I want to say to them to put your trust in God and try to meet mother in heaven where trouble and sorrow will not come anymore but peace will reign throughout eternity.  Mother is missed in the church and by her friends, but she is missed most by her poor orphan children who are left in this word without father or mother. But children, we must look to God who is the Author and Finisher of our faith and make mother’s home our home where we will be all the redeemed of the Lord.  We love her, yes, we love her, but the angels loved her more, and came and called her to yonder shining shore.
Written by her lonesome daughter, Romie Hill

 Fields, Laura Maxie-It is sad and aching heart that I attempt to write and obituary of my dear sister-in-law, Maxie Fields.She was the daughter of Thomas and Frances Charles.  She was born February 27 1898, and departed this life August 23 1947; being forty-nine years, five months and 26 days.  She was married to W.M. Fields in 1916.  To this union were born 10 children all still living.  Her darling husband preceded her in death thirteen years ago.  I want to say to the children, I believe they are both in heaven with Jesus.  Yours daddy left a bright hope and your mother pointed the way toward heaven.  Before she died, I believe that she saw Jesus coming after her.  I know you children were good to your mother, but if you expect to see her you will have to be born again.  Jesus will take you home where there will be no more parting.  At the request of the ten orphan children the memorial of their daddy and mothers funeral will be preached at the Frozen Creek Church September, second Saturday and Sunday, 1948.  Ministers called:  Milton Thacker, J.R. Coleman, Anthony Hamilton, Johnnie Hall, and John M. Justice. 
Written by Truly Charles

 Fuller, Lucille- I now attempt to writes an obituary of Lucille Fuller, the daughter of Henry and Eabie Fuller. She was born March 30 1941 and deceased this life March 27 1947; making her stay here on earth 5 years, 11 months and 27 days.  Her death was caused by an accidental shot fired by her first cousin Eugene Hogs ten.  After the fatal shot she lived only a few minutes. Lucille was a friendly little girl; she would often say the Lords Prayer a bed time.  She told her sister, Bertha and other children that she wanted Francis Baker, Clayton Baker and Dave Church to preach her funeral.  She also told Bertha and her playmates the wanted these songs sung at her funeral: “Village Churchyard”, ”Amazing  Grace” and “Orphan Girl”.  She leaves her father and mother, four sisters, two brothers and many relatives and fiends to mourn her loss.  Her soul is at rest and her body is in the earth to wait there until the resurrection day.  Dedicated by her Father, Henry Fuller  Written by Johnny Clevenger

Goff, Fannie—It is with much sorrow and sadness of heart that I now try with the help of our Lord to write a brief obituary of my dear mother, Fannie Goff.  Mother was born in Virginia on March 13, 1883. The Angels came and took her home March 25, 1947.  Mother came to this country at the age of 16.  She was married to Adam Goff and to this union were born nine children two has preceded her in death.  About eight years ago mother took up her fellowship with the Old Regular Baptist Church at Philadelphia. We had one of the sweetest mothers in the world.  I am satisfied that mother has gone to the Glory Land.  Mother was sick about four years. She sure bore her sickness and prayed to God to get well.  About a week before she died she said if it wasn’t for her to get well she wished the good Lord would take her on. So now children, I want you all to press on and try to live for Jesus.  Mother wanted everybody to do right and to meet her up in Heaven. Boys, she gave you all good advice, asked you not to drink any more. So father, press on.  Jesus is waiting to welcome his children home. How hard it was to give mother up, but Jesus prepared a better home for her.  I feel she is in the arms of sweet Jesus where neither death nor sorrow can enter there. The day mother died she said there were a hundred little babies sitting on her bed. I believe with all my heart they were little Angels coming after her.  Brothers and Sisters do well and make Heaven your home for I believe mother is waiting in that home, not made with hand, prepared by our sweet Savior. So sleep on dear mother, you have been so brave e.  We will meet you in the morning when you leave your dusty grave.
Written by her broken hearted daughter, Della Justice

Hamilton, James--James Hamilton was born the 16 day of August 1881, and died in February 25, 1947.  His age a t death being close to 66 years.   He was the son of Shefie and Phena  Hamilton He was married to Emma Swindell in 1903 and to this union five children, two  boys and three girls.. Both boys and d one daughter preceded him into the great beyond. He was a hard working man and was afflicted with asthma during the last years of his life.  He told his brother Hibbert that he dreamed of being at a good meeting and his father was there.   He said there’s was nothing in his way for he had been living right for years.  He leaves a wife and two daughters to mourn his passing. 
Written by B.H. Baker 

Hamilton, Shefie--was born September 5, 1861 and died January 27, 1947.  his age at death being eighty-five years, four months and twenty-two days.  He was the son of Lockard and Mary Hamilton.  He was Married to Phena Mullins , October 1880, being married sixty-six years and four months to this union twelve children, six boys and six girls were  born  He professed shape in Christ and Joined the bold Camp Church of the Old Regular Baptist this fourth Saturday in a August 1922.  He lived a devoted Christian life and filled his seat at the Church as long as he was able.  He was a bright and shining light to all in the Church and the world.  He leaves a wife , 12 children, 81 grand-children and 6 great grand-children and Brothers and Sisters in the church.  We believe with all our hearts that our loss is Heavens gain..  When it pleased the Lord to call for him he gathered his God given robe about him and went to meet the God he loved and trusted
Written by B. H. Baker

 May, Nancy J.—It is with a sad and aching heart that I try to write the obituary of my dear, loving mother, Nancy J. May.  She was born May 21, 1889 and deceased this life November 25, 1946, being 57 years, 6 months, and 4 days old. She was the daughter of Alford and Sarah Adkins.  She was married to Eldon Winston May in the year of 1915.  Unto this union were born 10 children; 6 girls and 4 boys.  4 girls and 1 boy preceded mother in death, leaving 2 girls and 3 boys to mourn with daddy the loss of a loving mother.  I am thankful to say I had a mother that lived the life before her children that we have no doubt of her.  She joined the Old Regular Baptist church and was baptized Jan 1916 by Elder
D. R. May and lived a faithful member until death.  She filled her seat in the old church when she was able to get to the church house. Many times she would go to church and we children would tell her she would never make it to the church house. She would always say, “The Lord has always made a way for me to get there and back,” She never missed going to meeting even if it were raining.  She said that all of the satisfaction she saw was when she was in a good meeting. She was so good to daddy. She was always willing to take care of the children and home affairs for him to go to church, and when he was called to comfort someone, she always told him to go on because she would make it all right.  When any of us children were sick or in trouble, mother couldn’t rest or sleep until we were better.  Mother worried so much about Jim Green when he was in the army. I have heard mother pray for him and other mother’s boys many times. When he was across the water, she said if she could see him home safely she would be ready to die. The Lord answered mother’s prayers. He came home 12 days before mother passed away.  She took sick on the 21st day of November and lived only five days after taking sick. They took her to the doctor on Friday. Oh! How pale she looked when they brought her back home.  She said, “Rebecca, don’t worry about me I can’t get well in this world. You have nothing to worry about for you have been good to me. I want you to take care of Elva Jane, my baby, and raise her right.”  The night before she died Jim Green went to her bedside. She put her arms around his neck and said, “Jim Green, don’t worry about me.” I begged the Lord to let me live to see you come home safe again. He has been so merciful mist I ask Him to let me live longer.” No, I am ready to die now-there is nothing in my way. I want to say to Lonzo, Jim Green, Orban and Elva Jant, if we ever want to see mother again, we must live for Jesus and forsake all sin and follow in mothers footsteps. Mother said she believed the family of God would pray for her children when she was gone, but we must pray for ourselves. Children, we have a praying father left with us. Let us journey this life with him and try to make a complete family in Heaven. Mother talked so much about her dream. She dreamed she had to lie down on a big white rock and die. She dreamed Delbert Sanders was by her side and said to her, “Sister Nancy, don't dread to die. I will pray for your children.” I believe mother died on that white rock she dreamed about, and Delbert was blessed to be by her side, but mother couldn’t speak to him. To all who has prayed for themselves: When you are blessed to pray, don’t forget us children and daddy. I will close by saying: “Sleep on mother until God calls for you. I believe mother will leave the grave in the morning of the resurrection. Thank God it will not be a weak body when it is raised-it will be like Christ’s most glorious body.
Written by her heart-broken daughter, Rebecca May

Meade, Elder N.W.—“There has fallen this day a might man in Israel!” Elder N.W. Meade was born June 27, 1880 and passed from this world of sorrow December 5, 1946; being 66 years, 5 months and 8 days old at the time of his death. At the age of twenty he married Mora McFall, and to them were born 12 children, 6 boys and 6 girls: Ballard, Marcus, Columbus, Lloyd, Sherman  and Estill; Girls: Nannie, Eura, Bertha, Virgie, Bessie and Maywood.  All the children are yet living except Nannie who passed on a few years ago.  After several children were born in the home, he came in one day, as he often related, intoxicated and the children ran to meet him in the yard. He there and then said, “My children will never see me again in this condition.”  He has said many times, he began from that time to seek his Lord and never ceased until he found Him Precious to his soul. H4e joined the Elizabeth Church of Regular Baptist July 1911 and soon felt that the Lord had a work for him to do. After feeling satisfied of his call to the ministry, he began preaching and in August 1914 the church felt pleased with his gift and ordained him to preach and administer the full function of the Gospel, which he did faithfully and fearlessly to the end.  We feel that no man in this country was more devoted to the work that the Lord had laid upon them than this good man. After the death of Mora, his firs wife, he was married to Cora Pilkins on May 7, 1946.  This good woman has faithfully stood by him, administered to him in his long sickness in every way to make his suffering as light as she could. Yes, there has fallen in this neighborhood, out of this church, from this family, a great man. His life was wrapped up in his love for the church and his family.  You children that are so deeply wounded today, realizing that you soon will look in the face of the one who has toiled and labored so much for you, and who you have so often heard preach the Gospel in so much power from this pulpit, must decide now that if you ever see papa again it will be over in the Land of the Living where Mother and Nannie have gone. On Saturday, December 7th his body was taken to the Elizabeth Church on Millstone. The Church he so much l9oved and had been its pastor for many, many years, and there amidst perhaps 500 people his funeral was preached by Elder Clay Crase, G.B. Adams and W.S. Tolliver. There was not a soul present whose heart was not in mourning for this great man. The write observed both men and women in that great congregation with tear-dimmed eyes that he had never seen before. There was hardly a boy or a girl present who faces not draped in mourning, hardly a home in his vicinity but what had gone to in time of sickness and death. Yes, as David and when he heard that Abner had been slain, “there has fallen this day a Great Man in Israel.” Brother Meade came up the hard way in life His being the oldest. He helped provide and kept his family well despite the fact he gave about half of his time making caskets, preaching and administering to the sic. Yes, the Lord wonderfully blessed him and made him a great man.
Written by W.S. Tolliver

 Meade, Mora—At 4:00 o’clock in the morning of May 19, 1945 the unwelcome angel of death against my will, against my prayers, and against all that doctors could thrust his sickle deep and stilled the heart of Mora, my beloved companion. She was born April 20, 1886; being 59 years and 29 days old. We were children together of the same neighborhood and in process of time we agreed to get married and on December 22, 1900 were united in marriage by Elder Elijah W. Baker.  There in the presence of witnesses and in the presence of Almighty God, she laid her tender hand to mine and said she would be my living and faithful wife until death separated us. She kept that promise and kept it well. During my 30odd years in the ministry she stood close by my side. She kept the children, she cared for the cows, horses and hogs when I was gone, and she kept my clothes (thought common ones) neat and mended.  She always shook hand s with me when I came home.  She has cooked and cared for hundreds of our Brethren and Sisters. She was always glad to have them. She joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in 1913.  During the 32 she lived in the church, not one act or deed she did caused me in the least to doubt her profession. God blessed us with twelve children, six boys and six girls. Our home has always been poor and common pertaining to this life, but we felt rich pertaining to the things of God. No serious trouble ever entered our life and home until Nannie, our oldest daughter, was taken away.  Then came this awful war, and took from us against our will, our youngest son, as far as I know when his mother went away he was somewhere in Germany. It almost breaks my heart to think that when he comes home, if God blesses him, to that he can’t find mother here. She so often prayed for his return, but shortly before she passed she said, “I will never live to see Estill come home.” No one except those who have experienced the same can know how sad and lonely I am, but someday and that day is not far away6 until I can see her again. While her voice will not be heard shouting and praising her God and mine in Church anymore, she is up in Heaven praising God, and watching and waiting for the children and me.  He body was taken Sunday, May 20th, to her church and there in the presence of a very large assembly her funeral was preached b y Elders T.R. Collier, S.T Wright and W.S. Tolliver. The children, relatives and I want to thank them and thank God for the many good things they said about her and to us, and too we thank all who did so many things to make our burden light. May God bless you all to meet Mora and me up in Heaven, where our home will not be disturbed by that cruel Reaper, and where our sons will not be ushered off the cruel wars.
Written by, N.S. Meade

 Mullins, Jonah--It is with a sad and broken heart that I will try to writes the obituary of dear daddy, Jonah Mullins.  I have stayed at home with dad all of my life until his death.  For the past nine years  I seen a great change in him.   He had told me many times of things he had quit and would tell me times after time to quit the wrong things I was doing.  I never heard him swear in my life.  Through his sickness I heard him call on the Lord to haves mercy on me.  DI can almost hear the words just as the bible says “Knock and it shall be opened.”  I cannot believe no other way but that God heard the wonderful knock and opened the great door unto everlasting peace and rest.  He was the son of W.L.J. Mullins and Rildy Mullins.  He’s was married to Arizona Cantrell in March 1910, to them were born seven children , fives living an d two deceased.  My mother deceased this life March 1921, leaving fives children still living.  In November 1921 he married Otella Mullins, and to them were born eight children seven which are living.  Dad deceased this life March 12, 1945, leaving his wife and twelve children to mourn our loss, but I believe our loss was his great gain.  A home in Heaven and I cannot believe it any other way.  He believed in the Old Regular Doctrine and nothing else.  Written by his loving son Elmer Mullins

Mullins, Rose Candalee-- It is with sad and aching heart that we attempt to write and obituary our little daughter, Rose Candalee Mullins  She was born May 10, 1940, died September 9, 1946.being six  year, 4 months old.  She was the daughter of Newton and Lura Mullins, Her funeral will be preached the second Saturday and Sunday in September 1948 near our homes. Ministers requested are B.H. Baker, G.W. Perrigin, W.M. Cantrell,  M.D. McCoy, J.J. Stanley and others there also will be a memorial of Uncle Jimmy Mullins, Barney A. Mullins, Fossie Mullins and others.

 Mullins, Sarah E.—It is with a sad heart that I attempt to write an obituary of my dear loving mother who departed this life, Sarah E. Mullins. While living she was know as Aunt Ellen.  She was born May 19, 1861; departed this life January 4, 1946; being 84 years, 7 months, and 16 days old. She was the daughter of James and Margaret Hale and was married to Basil Mullins in 1880.  To this union were born ten children, five died in infancy and brother has just gone on to live with mother. She had 51 grandchildren, 103 great-grandchildren and a loving husband, 1 boy and 3 girls with a host of friends to mourn her loss, while our loss is her eternal gain.  Mother was sick a lot while I was small and she would say, “Lydia be a good girl, raise the little children up right and meet me in heaven.” She thought she would never live to raise us children. She said she had to stay here and suffer so much when she had so much better place to go.  I have heard mother should and praise our loving Savior so much, bu7t now she is resting in the Paradise of God where her troubles are all over and with her loved ones that have gone on before.
”Sleep on mother, sleep on mother,
You have been a Christian brave,
I’ll meet you in the morning,
When you leave your dusty grave.”
Written by a daughter, Lydia M. Dotson

O’Quinn, Phebie Margaret—It is with a said heart that I try to write an obituary of my dear wife, Phebie Margaret O”Quinn. She was born June 11, 1887, died December 10, 1946; age 59 years and 6 months. She was the daughter of M.R. O’Quinn and Elizabeth O’Quinn.  We were married October 16, 1908 and to our union were born eight children, 3 boys and 5 girls.  One girl preceded her in death. She did not join the church, but was a faithful believe in the Regular Baptist. She was always happy to have the church people to come in our home. She lived a god life. About 25 years ago she told me of an experience she had which leaves me assured she is at rest.  A word to the children, if you ever expect to see mother again, you must live in the life she taught you and put your trust in Jesus, and prepare to meet her in the Bright Home above, where there will be no more separations nor heartaches.
Written by her husband Jonas O’Quinn

 Owens, Wilson-- It is with sad and aching heart that I try to write and obituary of my dear brother.  He was the son of W.A. and Nanny Owens.  He was born April 12, 1904 and departed this life June 23,1943, making his stay on earth 39 years, 2 months a d 11 days.  He left a wife, three children, fathers and mother, three brothers and five sisters mourn his passing.  Wilson all during his illness began to go home more and stay with his mother and dad and tell all of them to live a better life for there was nothing in his way but he hated to leave his wife and family.  I wish to say to the rest of my family the we have parted here on earth, but it is the Lords will we may be one little family in Heaven. 
Written by his mother and sisters-Mrs. Nannie Owens Mrs. Elvira Wellman and Mrs. Georgie Surrett

 Phillips, Christopher Columbus-- Christopher Columbus Phillips was born June 4 1872 and died February 9, 1946.  His age at death being 73w years, 6 months and 5 days.  He was the son of Clark and Lydia Phillips.  He was married to Rebecca Campbell., to this union five children were born, three girls and two boys.  One girl died at the age of 42.  His first wife Rebecca died in 1905 ,he then married Anna Bays in 1912 and to this union was born eleven children, two died  in infancy. Leaving 7 boys and two girls living.  Columbus Phillips professed a hope in Christ some thirty five years ago and joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in 1934.  she lived ass a true and faithful member and always filled his seat in the church and prayed and labored for peace and a clean  church.  The church has lost a good and faithful member l, the county a good citizen and a good true neighbor, his wife a good husband, and his children a good father.  she leaves to mourn his passing wife and thirteen children, thirty two grand children, three brothers, one sister and host of friends.  We feel our loss is heavens gain. 
Written by B.H. Baker  

 Potter, Melvin--He was born March 18, 1877; died September s9, 1947.  He was a little over 70 years old, When a young man he married Angeline Hall and they worked hard to accumulate the things of this life.  The Second Sunday in June he came forward in his feeble body and said he wanted to live the remainder of his life in the church.  He said he had been laying out of his duty several years.  He was baptized the same day.  Brother Potter had two brothers Sam and Floyd, and five sisters,  Ellen Mullins, Martha Wright, May Jane Newsome, Lizzie potter, and Roxies Bentley.  The Old bethel Church has lost a good member but we hope that some of his Brothers or Sisters will fill that vacancy.  Melvin Potter will be missed in this neighborhood.  We often saw him trudging the road toward Dill Potters business.   He loved to talk to people. 
Written by Elder James Wright

Potter, Victor K.  It is with much sadness and sorrow that I now try to write a brief obituary of my dear brother, Victor K.Potter, who departed this life February 6, 1947, being 32 years, 8 months, and 27 years old.  He was the son of Jerome and Armenia Potter.  He was married to Gertrude Boling December 12, 1936, and to this union were born three boys, one dead, the other two still living.  He was sick or about four years before he died. He was working in the miens at Dunham, Kentucky when he first found out about his sickness.  He hated to have to quit works so bad, that’s what grieved him most then.  Throughout all his sickness he endured it all with patience but just would not give up until he had to.  He took his bed the first of November in 1946.  For three days we thought he was unconscious and would die any minute, but we did not know it all,  “The Lord does all things well.”  This is his experience as he had his wife to write while he was living.  November 13, 1946, I thought I died, but only dying dead to sin.  For three days and nights I did not know day from night. When I thought I died I started to Heaven, but I got on the wrong road. When I got there it was Hell, and here I saw a bad time.  Is saw everything anyone could expect t.  I saw people I know sitting there. I was punished awful.  I did not eat or drink any. The water I tried to drink would burn my mouth, and I would spit it back out.  Everybody that tipped me would burn me, and I would jump.  I was burne3d for a long time.  I could see the jaw bones of people snapping.  I could see and smell my own self burning. The brightest light was shone on me nearly put my eyes out. They made the fire hotter and asked me if I would talk, but I did not.  They put me in an oven that was as hot as could be, and said if you don’t talk there are Hells from her and hotter,  They shut the door to the oven so I could not get a breath, and then I talked.  Then I thought the Lord and Devil were pulling over me.  They joist liked to pulled me in two.  At last the Lord pulled  me away.  Then I started to Heaven.  It was only a few jumps.  I went around the back way and upon the back porch.  There I saw a man that I called Peter, I asked for a drink and she said you can have all you want, you are drinking from the fountain than eve goes dry.  I drank two glasses of water as fast as I could. It was the best water I eve drank .  The water did no burn me this time.  Then I asked for something eat, and he said we don’t eat here. I can take a piece half as large as your finger and feed a thousand  I said “Lord I will starve to death.:  He said. “no, you won’t you can go back home,”  and told me in came in the back door and next time to go around to the front and sign up and come in the front door.  He said, “ you will have to read the Bible through backwards before you get back home, “ and he gave me a white rag to give the woman with the white dress on; that was my wife, and come in the front door.  He said, “ You have to read  The Bible through backwards, he said I’ll give you as much trouble as you  thought you were getting by with.”  That was a bad way b the time I read it through backwards, in my imagination.   Then I got back home and I had to tell this to Sam Short first. When I told him my burdens left and I ass happy as I could be.  He thought he as sent back for some purpose.”  On November 23 he joined the Old Regular Baptist Church.  He wanted to be baptized, but he wanted to be able to walk into the water as h4e dreamed he did.  He dreamed of brother Mack Cantrell and Ballard Baker baptizing him  and they walked on top of water coming out.  When he knew he had come to dies, He called his little boy to him and told them to be good, daddy was just about gone. We feel his troubles are over and he is just waiting.  I want to say to all the rest are left, let us live more humble and closer to God, for we all know we want to see Victor and Judith Helen again.  We’ve got to do as God would have us do to see them.  Just before Victor died, he told his mother he saw twelve angles standing at the foot of his bed.  He seemed to think that it was the family.  I pray the circle won’t  be broken.  This is what he requested to be put on his tombstone:
Remember me as you pass by;
As you are now, So once was I
As I am now, you soon will be;
Prepare for death and follow me.
Written by his sister Thelma Gilliam

Raines, Z. T. It is with a sad and lonely feeling, that I try to write the obituary of my dear father, Z.T. Raines.  He was born on December 5, 1865, and departed this life April 9, 1947, at 81 years, 4 months, and 4 days of age.  He was the son of John Raines and Sophia Conaway.  He was married to Rosina Owens, May 5, 1887, and to this union were born 7 children: 4 girls and 3 boys, all living.  Dad joined the Old Regular Baptist Church in 1894 and was ordained to preach shortly afterwards. He was one in the trouble Association and begged for peace, but they wouldn’t hear him. Then his home was destroyed by fire and it altogether broke him down in his mind for about seven years.  But in his well days I feel he was a great man.  He tried so heard to teach us children how we should live.  He was an able minister, a good faith doctor, and a good old fashion school teacher.  He loved little children and that seemed to make him love to teach school.  He took pride in getting them started and never seemed to tire of giving them good counsel.  Dad was very feeble in his last years but I feel like the Lord blessed him to stay with mother and us children, to pray for us and our children through his heart aching war.  He was such a strong believer in prayer and was blessed to see nine grandsons get back from service.  I feel like we can’t praise the good Lord enough for such a blessing.  Last Easter Sunday he was better than he had been all winter and kept John’s children for mother to go to church.  About 3 o’clock in the afternoon his nose started bleeding.  They got it stopped but he still wanted to walk in the years.  Said it had been the most beautiful day he had ever seen. He came in at last and told mother he was not going to live long. Just three days later he fell asleep in Jesus, is our precious hope.  He seemed so pitiful and patient, never once complaining all three days while he was slowly bleeding to death.  He seemed to realize our trying to do something for him was in vain.  He leaves a wife, 7 children, 47 grand children, 6 great-great grandchildren, 4 sisters and a host of friends to mourn his loss, but we feel satisfied that is his gain.  He lived to see four of his children come to the Old Regular Baptist Church.  I know all of us children want to b e good to our mother, but we can’t heal her broken heart.  She has stuck so close by his side in sickness and in health all these years, but I know she is trusting in Jesus who doeth all things well.  His funeral will be preached the first Saturday and /Sunday in May 1948 at the Little Josie Church with the following ministers called:  Bro. Dave Church, Bro. J.M. Gibson and Bro. John  Hess.  Our wish so for every preaching Brother to come that has a mind and all people who wants to.
Written by his Daughter , Grace R. Deel

Rasnic, Mrs. John R.    Mary Ellen (Mollie Rasnic), daughters of H. E. and Louisa Coleman , born March 25, 1876 at Marrowbone, Pike County, Kentucky .  she spent her entire life in this vicinity.  She was married to John R. Rasnic June 6, 1893 and unto this union ten children were born; two having died in infancy, and eight surviving.  There are sic sons, Bill, Allen, James E,  Frank, John Jr. and Arthur.  Two daughters , Mrs. W.M. Coleman and  Mrs. C.R. Cole.  Also surviving are 16 grand-children and ones great-grand-son Mother died March 6, 1947.  When mother left she not only left daddy and us children with a great vacant place in our live and a sadness that only God can help us bear.  She was a friend to everyone no matter what station in  life they held.   All who came in contact with her loved her and to all the young boys she was mother.  When any of them came into our home  she was the first person they asked for, and if they had any problems they took them to her and was never to busy to listen and give then advise the same way she did us children.  Her life was so lived that her love and counsel reached  out to everyone to follow.  Her greatest ambition was to have her children and everyone she  knew live a Christian life.  Mother  was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church  which she joined  in July of 1927.  The Greatest tribute that can be given to anyone was given mother by the kindness and good words that were given to her and have been expressed about her since she ha been gone.  Mother is not really gone from us; she still lives in our hearts.  When we can so live that when we must depart this life it can be said of us, (you  have gone for a little while , but you still live in a great many lives, then our lives here on earth will have been well spent).  That was the tribute paid our sweet mother.  She  so lived that her good works glorified her Father in Heaven and we know that she  now rests in peace with Him. 
Written by her daughters-Mrs. C. R. Cole and Mrs. W.M. Coleman

Smallwood, Earl--It is with a sad heart I attempt to writes a short sketch of my dear beloved husband, Earl Smallwood.  He was brother in Christ and was born March 3, 1912; departed this life, June 11 1946 on account of a coal mine accident.  He’s bore his punishment in good faith and did not complain until death.  He was married to Thelma Rowe and to this union was born three children, ones boy and two girls. One girl Ida preceded him in death.  Rose Marie Smallwood, James Harvey Smallwood and good companion, Thelma Rowe Smallwood, are left here to mourn his loss.  I feel our loss is Heavens gain.  I can truthfully say to his brothers and sisters that are out of safety that if they ever want to see Brother Earl again and live with  him again. To fall out with the ways of sin and turn to God our Father and homes shall be their homes.  I believe with all my heart that my husband is at rest today and we are looking forward to see to the time when we meet him in a better world where we shall never be separated.

Stanley, Elder Harrison-- It is with a sad and unworthy feeling that I try to writes this Obituary of a Brother in Christ, Elder Harrison Stanley.  He was born September 36, 1872 and departed this life August 17, 1947.  His age at death being 74 years, 10 months and 17 days.  He was the son of Hannah Stanley.  Harrison Stanley was married to Sally Castle about fifty years ago and to this union one child, a girl who died at the age of six.  Brother Harrison professed hope in Christ and joined the Old Regular Baptist Church.  He was ordained to preach in 1909.  He was sound in the faith of the Regular Baptist Doctrine.  He was an able defender of the Doctrine of Christ, never compromising with false doctrine.  The church will miss his wonderful counsel.  He went far and near to fill his appointments trying with all his might to obey the one who called him by His Grace to preach His everlasting Gospel.  Sister Sally Pray that the good Lord will be with you in your lonesome hours and help out to put all your trust in God just a few more lonesome hours and you can lay aside this Old Cross and go to meet your precious husband loved one in a land where there is no parting.  His funeral will be preached the third Saturday and Sunday in Junes 1948, by the following:  Elders Ted Swindle, W. F. Hubbard, Mack Cantrell l, McKinley Moore and B. H. Baker at the little Zion Church. 
Written by B. H. Baker

Turner, John B.   It is with a sad aching heart and unworthy feeling I make this feeble attempt to write an obituary of my well beloved Father John  B. Turner.  He was born October 10, 1868 and deceased this life December 12 1946, making his stay here on earth 78 years, 2 months and 2 days.   He joined the Old Regular Baptist Church the first Saturday in May, 1919 and was baptized by Brother Hiram Rose at Delano, Va.  He lived a faithful member and loved  all his Christian Brothers and Sisters as well as many friends as long as he realized anything.  He was married to Rachel A. Hay  February 7, 1888 and to  union were born eight children , two sons preceded him in death after they were grown.  He lived to see one of his sons and one of his daughters profess a hope in Christ before he passed away.  He was a devoted husband and loving father to his children and kind to all he met.  He had been in bad health for several years and spent his three years at Marion, Virginia, not able to realize  his condition.  I feel that like all the children have done their duty and have done all they could  for him that was in their power to do.  He went to church as long as he was able.  He leaves three boys , three girls and a blind widow to morn his loss, also his Brothers and Sisters in the church, his grand children and a host of friends.  The ministers requested by him for his funeral a Brother George Perrigan, Brother Howard Colley, and Brother Bruce Mullins. 
Written by his daughter and lonely widow Rachel A Turner

Yates, Sarah--With a sad and aching heart I will try to writes an obituary of my darling girl Sarah Yates. She was born June 13, 1039 and deceased this life November 11, 1946 making her stay her with us 7 years, 4 months and 28 days.  She was the daughter of Walter and Canzatey Yates.  She was a loving little girl and was loved by all who knew her.  She was good to everybody that knew her.  She was sick about three weeks.  We took her to the hospital and did all we could for her.   There was nothing we could do for that would help her.  A few days before she passed away, she hugged pap’s neck and said “Papa I have to die”.  That was heart aching for us but we must be willing for Lords will to be done.  We would love to keep her with us.  She left fathers, mother, four brothers, and fives sisters to mourn her loss  To my children that are sill living lest us  lives the life God want us to live and when life is ended we meet little Sarah in the eternal world where  no separation will come.  All we have to worry about is the loss of her from us.  From us is gone a voice we love.  There is still a place vacant in our home that can never be filled.  We loved her, but Jesus loved her more so he called her to yonder shining shores and d I only pray to meet her some sweet day. 
Written by her broken-hearted mother Canzatey Yates

  Gloria Marcum
August 24, 2003