The Vernon Courier, Obituaries, 1897
Vernon, Lamar County Alabama

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1897 Obituaries from the Vernon Courier, in Vernon, Lamar County, Alabama.

BALL, Luther, Obituary

A VALENTINE TRAGEDY - Latest Reports Show the Killing was Justifiable
Columbus, March 23 - A full account of the killing of LUTHER BALL by LEE DOSS, which occurred at Pickensville, Ala, Saturday night, was received here today., the story being about like this:

On the 14th day of February last a young lady cousin of Ball, sent him a comic valentine which excited him to wrath and caused him to denounce the sender in very harsh language. MACK DOSS, who is also a cousin of BALL and who is related to the young lady who sent the valentine, took the matter up and told BALL that he ought to be careful about what he said about the sender of the valentine until he found out who the party was that sent it, whereupon Ball accused DOSS of having sent the valentine. Doss denied the accusation, but stated that he knew who did send it. Hot words ensued, ending in a challenge from Ball to Doss to fight a duel Matters were in this shape when Ball met LEE DOSS, a brother of MACK, in a saloon Saturday night. Ball proposed that they settle the matter there and then and, pulling his pistol, began firing at Doss, who returned the fire, killing Ball almost instantly. Dos shad a preliminary trial at Pickensville today and was released under a $2,000 bond to appear before the next term of the county court. Public sentiment in Pickensville and surrounding country seems to justify the killing. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), Mar. 25, 1897]

BICKERSTAFF, W. H., Obituary

Mr. W. H. BICKERSTAFF, an old citizen who resided two miles north of town, died on Monday evening last. He was a man of more than ordinary intelligent. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), June 17, 1897]

BOWMAN, Grant, Obituary

FATAL AFFRAY - Dispute Between Decatur Men Over a Truck Garden Results in Death
Decatur, Ala., June 25 - about 5 o'clock yesterday morning two men by the name of Bill Kinton and Grant Bowman were engaged in an altercation in East Decatur over the ownership of a truck garden which the two men were working in partnership.

Bowman, it seems, threatened Kinton when the latter who was armed with a double-barreled shotgun fired point blank at him. Nearly the entire load of No 6 shot entered Bowman's body. Several of the shot scattered and terribly lacerated the jaw of Bowman's little 9-year-old daughter.

Kinton threw down his gun and fled but was pursued and captured by Colored officer Thomas Robbins in New Decatur. Dr. Rosamond attended Bowman and pronounced his injuries fatal. About 4 o'clock last afternoon Bowman died. The girls' wounds are not necessarily fatal unless blood --- in. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), July 1, 1897]

COLLINS, Alex, Obituary

Mr. ALEX COLLINS died at his home five miles east of here Tuesday night. He had been dangerously sick for several days of pneumonia. He leaves a wife and one child. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), February 4, 1897]

EDGEWORTH, Mrs. Hub, Obituary

Mrs. HUB EDGEWORTH died at her home near Bedford Tuesday morning. She had been confined to her bed of consumption for several months. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), January 28, 1897]

ELLIOTT, Farris, Obituary

FARRIS ELLIOTT, the nine-year old son of JAMES ELLIOTT of Crews died last Monday of slow fever. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), February 18, 1897]

FALKNER, Judge B. L., Obituary

Judge B. L. FALKNER died at his home last Saturday morning and was interred at the family burying ground on Sunday last. He had nearly reached the 70th milestone, having been born in 1827.

He filled the office of Judge of Probate while the county was in existence under the name of Jones county and when the county was abolished he went out of office. In 1872, on the death of Judge THOMAS MORTON, he was again appointed and filled out the unexpired term. In politics he was a stalwart republican, and very ably defended the doctrines of his party.

He had been living alone for the past two years, since the death of his wife. And it is thought by friends who were intimate that he would have married again at an early date. A short time back he stepped into the Probate Judges office and asked the Judge if he could take a blank license and issue them should the marriage take place, which request was granted as a courtesy due him by the office. The license were found among his papers.

He was a man of sterling integrity and solid worth and when death has closed his eyes men of all parties realize the moral worth and grandeur of the man. Peace to his ashes. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), April 29, 1897]

FERGUSON, James, Obituary

Mr. JAMES FERGUSON, who has been sick of slow fever for some weeks, died at his home four miles south of town on Tuesday afternoon. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), July 15, 1897]

FLEMING, Ward, Obituary

WARD FLEMING, colored, was thrown from a moving train last Sunday night and received such injuries that he died Monday at 11 a.m. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), July 29, 1897]

FURGERSON, James J., Obituary

AN OBITUARY - On the 18th of July our most beloved friend, JAMES J. FURGERSON, was called from this stage of existence to join the heavenly host.

He was born Aug. 20th, 1872, and was the only son of Mr. and Mrs. M. A. FURGERSON. He joined the M. E. Church South July 1890, was married to MAGGIE SHELTON March 3rd, 1895.

Being raised very near him and we being intimate associates, I have a right to know his true character. He was a model young man in most every particular. Being a devoted Christian we could expect nothing less.

Three days before his death he called all his loved ones to his bedside and asked them to meet him in heaven and then said: "Home Sweet Home Beyond this Vale of Tears." On Tuesday after this talk on Saturday he fell asleep in the arms of Jesus.

He leaves a wife, a child, a father, a mother and four sisters to mourn his loss. May God's richest blessing comfort all the bereaved and his holy spirit teach the mother how to raise up the precious babe for Christ. The Lord does all things for our good and for his glory.

His friend. - D. D. REDUS [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), August 19, 1897]

GLASSCOCK, Col. John, Obituary

Col. John Glasscock, Tuscaloosa's oldest citizen, died suddenly last Friday. He was more than 84 years of age and had been a prominent merchant of the town for sixty years.

SUDDEN DEATH - Of Mr. John Glasscock at Tuscaloosa
Tuskaloosa, Ala, Jan. 23 - Mr. John Glasscock, one of Tuskaloosa's oldest citizen died suddenly last evening at his home after partaking of his evening meal. Heart disease was the cause of his sudden demise. He leaves a wife and children. Mr. Glasscock was 84 years of age and lived in Tuskaloosa county any years. He was well known in Birmingham. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), Jan. 28, 1897]

GUIN, Mrs. A. L., Obituary

Mrs. GUIN, wife of the late A. L. GUIN, of Sulligent died Sunday night. She had been sick only a few days. She had recently been appointed postmistress at Sulligent.

MRS. A. L. GUIN, widow of ALONZO GUIN, died at her home Monday morning about 4 o'clock and was buried Monday evening. She leaves five orphan children and many bereaved relatives and friends. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), October 28, 1897]

HANKINS, Mrs. S. H., Obituary

Mrs. S. H. HANKINS died at her home, nine miles east of here, Saturday night. She had been suffering intensely for three days but was thought by her physicians to be improving that morning. She was laid to rest in the Shiloh cemetery Monday. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), March 4, 1897]

HARTON, Mrs. J. B., Obituary

From Kennedy we received this morning the sad news of the sudden death of Mrs. HARTON, wife of Dr. J. B. HARTON who lives about three miles east of that town. She ate a hearty supper last evening and was apparently in usual health. A short time after she was taken suddenly sick and grew rapidly worse until 12 o'clock when she died. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), June 17, 1897]

HAYDEN, Andy, Obituary

INNOCENT BLOOD
On Sunday morning at 2 a.m. the people of the quiet town of Kennedy were aroused from their slumbers by pistol shots and the cries of murder.

Investigation showed that in the town of Kennedy a negro, ANDY HAYDEN, had been shot in bed and dragged out into the street dead.

The killing was done at the home of WEST COOPER and it is said that the deceased was only a visitor attending a big meeting at that time.

The coroner's jury which sat on the case made their examination privately and returned a verdict that he was killed by a mob the number and names of whom to the jury were unknown. It is believed generally from the testimony that the mob was after JOHN BONNER, a son-in-law of WEST COOPER. On Thursday night previous, three men had taken Bonner's wife out and given her a severe whipping demanding that she tell where BONNER was. This together with the facts of the killing at West's house and inquiry made there leads to the conclusion that they killed a man whom they were not after. Finding him in the said room of Cooper's house they shot him in the breast then dragged him into the main room where he was shot in the head and dragged out and up and down the street some thirty or forty yards.

It is not known that the mob ever found out their mistake.

Repeated inquiries there have elicited no further information than that some circumstances are being brought to light that will result in the arrest of the guilty parties sooner or later. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), June 3, 1897]

HENSON, Mrs. Rosa H., Obituary

Mrs. ROSA H. HENSON (nee ALLMON) died at her home, Henson Springs, on Friday evening, the 9th instant, at 7:55 o'clock. She had been sick quite a long time, having a severe attack of la grippe about three years ago for which she never wholly recovered. This brought on other diseases, and despite the best medical attention and careful nursing, at last consumption of the lungs developed. Even then the efforts of the family were not relaxed in the least and some small hope was entertained until a short time back that she would recover. When all hope was gone and the family and relatives were summoned to her bedside she still thought she would get well. She was perfectly conscious at all times, and when she too realized that she must soon pass away from this earth she talked with and counseled her husband and children to grieve not for her for the separation would not be long.

When she would think of her children she would say "I cannot leave them," as she too fully realized what it is to grow up without a mother's love for her mother. ESTHER E. ALLMON died on the 9th of July 1856, leaving her a little girl less than two years old to the care of others, then her father, WILLIAM C. M. ALLMON passed away on the 11th day of April 1859. She was reared by her grandmother with all the tender care that she could bestow, but this was not like the tender solicitude of a mother. Her greatest regret was for her youngest child, a little girl not yet three years old.

She told husband, children, and friends to meet her in Heaven, saying that she felt fully prepared to die and that there was nothing between her and the Savior. She had long been a consistent member of the Methodist church and lived a life which showed her charitable and Christian spirit. To know her was to love her.

As to the family no words can express their loss. The community will feel that there is a place vacant that none can fill.

She was born at Pikeville, Marion County, Alabama, October 23rd, 1854, was married to I. N. HENSON on December 8th, 1870. She was but in the 43rd year of her age at the time of her death.

She was laid to rest in the family cemetery near her home on Saturday afternoon just as the sun was sinking behind the western horizon, and as the light was fading from the world so it seemed to that family that as they lowered her body into the grave, was the light fading from their lives; but the thought of these words from the Holy book came to them in that sad hour; "Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord for they shall see God." (Vernon Courier, April 15, 1897]

HILL, Child, Obituary

Mr. JOHN T. HILL after a long and serious illness was able to spend Monday and Tuesday with friends in Vernon. The dreaded scourge, typhoid fever, has been in his family for a long time. His entire family having been sick first and last; his infant child and a sister, having died within the past three months. His friends were glad to see him. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), June 17, 1897]

HOLLIDAY, Mattie, Obituary

Mrs. MATTIE HOLLIDAY (nee BANKHEAD) wife of County Commissioner J. G. HOLIDAY died yesterday afternoon of consumption. She was noted for her gentleness and refined Christian character. Her death does not come unexpected to us for the dread disease gives a few months warning that soon we shall see the last of some fading human life that is dear. She leaves a bright little girl of four and her husband and numbers of close relatives who feel deeply their great loss. She had not reached the noonday of a long and happy life when she was summoned to go and leave this world and her friends richer in the remembrance of a life and character so quiet, gentle, and pure that the world is but the better that she has lived. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), June 3, 1897]

JENKINS, Baby, Obituary

We are in sympathy with Mr. and Mrs. J. F. JENKINS in the loss of their babe that died a few days ago. Mr. Jenkins lives near Pine Springs. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), November 11, 1897]

JOHNSON, John, Obituary

Mr. JOHN JOHNSON, prominent young man of Kingville, died Friday night. He had been sick quite a long time. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), January 28, 1897]

LAMPKINS, W. J., Obituary

Mr. W. J. LAMPKINS, an old resident of the county died suddenly at his home at Baxter last Thursday of heart failure. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), February 18, 1897]

MAY, Pleas, Obituary

Mr. PLEAS MAY, an aged citizen of this county living near Gattman died last Friday morning. He had not been in good health for a long time but still his death was rather unexpected. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), January 14, 1897]

McGEE, Fannie, Obituary

FANNIE, the fourteen year old daughter of Rev. M. D. MCGEE, has been quite sick of pneumonia for about a week. The family have about lost all hope of her recovery, but the physicians think that the indications are somewhat better this morning than yesterday.

Later: A telephone message was received at 11 o'clock that Fannie had died a few moments before that time. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), February 4, 1897]

McGEE, Joe, Obituary

A serious accident occurred about nine miles south of here a few days ago. JOE, the six-year son of Mr. PETER MCGEE was driving a horse out of the orchard, a colt began playing with the horse which caused it to kick, striking the boy on the forehead and crushing the skull. Dr. BRANYON was summoned at once and did what he could for the little fellow, but without avail. The accident occurred on Saturday Feb. 20, and until Monday morning he was perfectly conscious but about eight o'clock that morning consciousness left him and he remained that way till the time of his death that night. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), March 4, 1897]

MONTGOMERY, Mrs. W. A., Obituary

Dr. W. A. BURNS received a telegram yesterday telling him of the death of Mrs. MONTGOMERY, wife of Rev. W. A. Montgomery, of Tuscumbia. Mrs. Montgomery lived in our town two years when Mr. Montgomery was pastor of this circuit and was, therefore, well known here, besides being the mother of Mrs. BURNS. The Dr. left on the east bound K. C. Train to attend the funeral. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), April 22, 1897]

MORRIS, John H., Obituary

JOHN H. MORRIS, an aged citizen living and two miles and a half from here departed this life Sunday night and was buried at Sulligent Cemetery Monday. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), August 5, 1897]

MOSLEY, Ming, Obituary

Mr. MING MOSLEY, of Berley, died at his home Sunday night. He had been sick for quite a while. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), September 9, 1897]

NESMITH, Hon. Thomas B., Obituary

The Hon. THOMAS B. NESMITH, a prominent attorney, died at his home in this place this morning at 5:15 o'clock. The deceased was born in Morgan county, June 13th, 1832 and had nearly completed his 65th year. He located in Pikeville in 1866 and commenced the practice of law. In 1876 he moved to Vernon and has resided here since, and here closes a fairly successful life.

He was a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1876, held the office of Solicitor from 1876 to 1880, was member of the Legislature from this county two terms - 1882-3 and 1884-5.

Before coming to this county he held the office of County Superintendant in Marion county for several years. He was also County Solicitor there during his residence and filled the same place in this county several years. He enjoyed the reputation of being a close student of his legal business and always had his cases well in hand in the court room. He was a member of the Methodist church, a Mason, and Odd Fellow and will be buried with the rites of these orders tomorrow at eleven o'clock. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), April 1, 1897]

PARTAIN, Mrs. Sarah H., Obituary

Mrs. SARAH H. PARTAIN (nee DAVIS) was born in Fayette county, Ala Jan.24, 1856 and died in Lownds county, Miss May 5, 1897. Her illness was short, ending her life in an unconscious state. She was unable to leave us any word of comfort, but her beautiful Christian life was sufficient evidence to satisfy her many friends of her future welfare.

Intimate acquaintance and religious association for seventeen year enables the writer of this tribute of respect to say than her (sic) I never new (sic) a more consistent, and devoted Christian lady, she was converted at about twelve years of age, and joined the Missionary Baptist Church in which she lived a consistent member until she married Brother PARTAIN, he being a Presbyterian they compromised by both joining the M. E. Church south, in which she lived an exemplary life until death called her home to her reward. She was an ardent lover of the church, a zealous Sunday School worker, deeply interested in the mental culture and spiritual (sic) elevation of the children, a true friend of the preacher, her house was ever his --- where he always met a ---- It seems hard to give --- of the church but death often chooses shining mark and we bow with submission to the will of Him who doth all things well. She leaves a grief stricken husband, four loving children, and a host of friends to mourn the loss, but we weep not as those who have no hope, for Hassie is not dead but asleep in Jesus. Asleep in Jesus; Blessed sleep . From which none ever wake to weep. May the Savior she adored guide the grief stricken ones safely to the summer land of bliss where separation is unknown, and death never enters. Her remains was interred in the cemetery of Lone Oak Church, with a burial service conducted by the writer of this article, while many friends attended the services, placing beautiful wreaths of the flowers she loved so dearly upon her grave. - W. L. MILES [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), May 13, 1897]

PONDER, Mary, Obituary

Miss MARY PONDER died yesterday morning. She has been sick several days, and said from the beginning that her soul would soon take a flight to immortal fields of brightness. Several days ago, Miss MARY called the sad family to her bedside and told them all that she was going to die, that she was willing to leave this world, although she loved her people. She made several requests as to the course which different members of the family should take and told them that on Wednesday night she would bid a farewell to earthly things. She did not die Wednesday night, but Thursday she was much better. The family took new hope, but the young lady yet said that her life on this earth would be ended Sunday, today. Friday she was taken more seriously ill and constantly grew until yesterday morning, when she passed peacefully away at her father’s home, 2512 Second Avenue.

The deceased had many friends in this city and all over Alabama, who will shed tears over her untimely death – [Herald]

The subject of the above was a young lady just budding into womanhood. She was a native of Lawrence County and a niece of D. C. and JOURD WHITE, of the Moulton Advertiser. She follows a mother that preceded her only a few months to the “borun from whence no traveler ever returns’

She was known to the writer almost from her infancy, and we can truthfully say that she was one of nature’s noblest women. Her generous impulses, her amiable disposition, her purity of character, and her modest, unassuming manner made her a favorite wherever she was known. All who knew her will revere her memory and mourn her untimely death. To the grief-stricken parent and family we extend our heart-felt sympathy. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), October 25, 1888]

RODDEY, General Philip Dale, Obituary

DEATH OF GENERAL PHILIP RODDEY
News was received in this city of the death in London on Tuesday of General Philip Dale Roddey, one of the gallant officers of the late Confederacy.

According to Brewer's Alabama General Roddey was born in Lawrence county, and at the time of his death was about seventy years of age. He grew to manhood at Moulton, and about the year 1846 was elected sheriff which office he filled three years, after which he engaged in steamboating on the Tennessee river. He was thus engaged when the war broke out and he at once raised a company of mounted men and entered the services as its captain. He was efficient as a scout, and rendered important service at Shilow, where he and his company acted as Bragg escort, and where he was compliments on the field for gallantry. Shortly after he returned to the Tennessee valley and increase his command to a regiment and made head against the numerous detachments of the invading army which penetrated into North Alabama. In the fall of 62, when General Sweeny moved up from Corinth, he was met by General Roddey, and, after a severe battle was driven back to Corinth. A little later, he met another raid at Barton's and drove it back, capturing a piece of artillery and causing considerable loss to the enemy. He thereafter held the valley and made several raids across the river. He rendered important service to General Hood by keeping his communications open and he and his brigade did gallant service, with Forrest. He retired from the war with the rank of brigadier general but toward the close o the war he was promoted to the next higher rank but the war closed before his commission reached him. After the war General Roddey moved his family to Tuskaloosa and he went to New York, where he entered the commission business as a member of the firm of Roddey Bell & Co. After spending ten years in New York he removed to London, which place has since been his headquarters. The members of his family continued to reside at Tuskaloosa until recently when they removed to Louisville.

General Roddey leaves five children, Miss Emma Roddey and Mrs. P. B. Burdine, of Louisville, Philip D. Roddey, Jr., of Tuskaloosa county, George Roddey of Florida, and Mrs. J. Ralston Burgett, Jr., of this city - [Mobile Register] [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), Aug 5, 1897]

RANSOM, Henry, Obituary

HENRY RANSOM, one of the oldest d-s in Lamar county, died Tuesday night. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), February 18, 1897]

ROBERTSON, David, Obituary

Mr. DAVID ROBERTSON, an old and esteemed citizen of Ridge beat, died at his home Saturday night. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), July 15, 1897]

RODDEY, General Philip Dale, Obituary

DEATH OF GENERAL PHILIP RODDEY
News was received in this city of the death in London on Tuesday of General Philip Dale Roddey, one of the gallant officers of the late Confederacy.

According to Brewer's Alabama General Roddey was born in Lawrence county, and at the time of his death was about seventy years of age. He grew to manhood at Moulton, and about the year 1846 was elected sheriff which office he filled three years, after which he engaged in steamboating on the Tennessee river. He was thus engaged when the war broke out and he at once raised a company of mounted men and entered the services as its captain. He was efficient as a scout, and rendered important service at Shilow, where he and his company acted as Bragg escort, and where he was compliments on the field for gallantry. Shortly after he returned to the Tennessee valley and increase his command to a regiment and made head against the numerous detachments of the invading army which penetrated into North Alabama. In the fall of 62, when General Sweeny moved up from Corinth, he was met by General Roddey, and, after a severe battle was driven back to Corinth. A little later, he met another raid at Barton's and drove it back, capturing a piece of artillery and causing considerable loss to the enemy. He thereafter held the valley and made several raids across the river. He rendered important service to General Hood by keeping his communications open and he and his brigade did gallant service, with Forrest. He retired from the war with the rank of brigadier general but toward the close o the war he was promoted to the next higher rank but the war closed before his commission reached him.

After the war General Roddey moved his family to Tuskaloosa and he went to New York, where he entered the commission business as a member of the firm of Roddey Bell & Co. After spending ten years in New York he removed to London, which place has since been his headquarters. The members of his family continued to reside at Tuskaloosa until recently when they removed to Louisville.

General Roddey leaves five children, Miss Emma Roddey and Mrs. P. B. Burdine, of Louisville, Philip D. Roddey, Jr., of Tuskaloosa county, George Roddey of Florida, and Mrs. J. Ralston Burgett, Jr., of this city - [Mobile Register] [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), Aug 5, 1897]

SAVAGE, Cicero, Obituary

GROUND UNDER THE WHEELS
On Sunday morning about one o'clock Mr. CICERO SAVAGE of Fernbank was run over by a freight train on the Southern road near that town and terribly mangled and killed.

He had the misfortunate to loose his leg about a year ago in the service of the railroad. It is said that he was to receive one thousand dollars in compromise for damages for that injury and that he had just received the check.

It was asserted that he had been killed and laid on the track and some negroes were ----, but on an investigation they were discharged.

It has been impossible for the Courier to get the news quick and accurate this week. Our telephone being in the store of Mr. J. W. SHIELDS, a brother-in-law of the deceased, and he having taken the remains to Georgia for interment his store has been closed. But news from near there leaves no doubt but that his death was accidental and that he had not received the check as rumored, besides money found on the person of the deceased precludes the idea of robbery. He was doubtless walking or sitting on the track and was run over. His head was found about one mile from his body, which gave rise to the suspicion that there had been foul play. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), June 3, 1897]

SAVAGE, Crocket, Obituary

Two very old colored men DUMAS SULIVAN and CROCKET SAVAGE were buried at the Shiloh grave yard yesterday. They died of grippe. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), January 21, 1897]

SHELTON, Mrs. T. W., Obituary

The wife of Rev. T. W. SHELTON, near Blowhorn died suddenly last week. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), November 11, 1897]

SLOAN, Joseph, Obituary

Mr. JOSEPH SLOAN, one of the first settlers of the county died at his home near Gattman, last Friday at an advanced age. His death was not unexpected. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), November 11, 1897]

STACY, Hop, Obituary

Uncle HOP STACY, one of the oldest men in the country and one highly esteemed died at the home of his son J. H. STACY last Friday. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), September 30, 1897]

STRAWBRIDGE, Margaret L., Obituary

Mrs. MARGARET L. STRAWBRIDGE the aged widow of WM. STRAWBRIDGE died at her home near Sulligent last Friday night. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), November 11, 1897]

SULIVAN, Dumas, Obituary

Two very old colored men DUMAS SULIVAN and CROCKET SAVAGE were buried at the Shiloh grave yard yesterday. They died of grippe. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), January 21, 1897]

TAYLOR, David H., Obituary

DAVID H. TAYLOR died at his home in Sizemore beat last Monday. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), April 1, 1897]

THOMAS, Bailey, Obituary

Mr. BAILEY THOMAS, aged 24 years died near Arcola last night of bronchitis. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), January 21, 1897]

TURNER, Mrs., Obituary

Mrs. TURNER who resided in Ridge beat, died last Friday night. She had reached a good old age. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), June 17, 1897]

VAUGHN, Dr. B. A., Obituary

Columbus, Miss, Nov. 5 - Dr. B. A. Vaughn died here today from a stroke of paralysis, which was precipitated by mental and physical exhaustion.

Dr. Vaughn was 72 years of age and had for many years been chief health officer of Lowndes county. He was past grand eminent commander of the Masonic lodge of the state of Mississippi, and was a charter member of the Columbus Riflemen, who organize in 1837 and participated in both the Mexican and civil wars. Dr. Vaughan was one of the old landmarks of the city and was loved and respected by every citizen of Columbus, each and every one of whom feel a personal loss in his death. His remains will be buried from St. Paul's Episcopal Church at 10 o'clock Sunday morning. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), November 11, 1897]

WALKER, Addie, Obituary

IN MEMORY OF - Addie, youngest daughter of J. D. and N. J. WALKER, who finished her work on earth and went home to heaven June 4th, 1897. She was born April 11th, 1873. She converted and joined the Baptist church when quite young and was ever ready to act her part as a member of the same. She had been failing in health for five years and for the past few months the emancipated frame, halting steps and pale cheeks manifested to all the sad fact that the end was not far distant; yet death seemed sudden when it came, and but few friends and relatives were present. Her death was as peaceful as had been her life.

She was noted for her gentleness and refined Christian character. Good will to all and evil to none was a cardinal principle of her life. We express our appreciation of her lovely life and hope that it may be an everlasting heritage to her family and friends, and that it may be an inspiration to them to live a nobler, better life and to heed the admonition of our Savior "Be ye always ready"

She leaves a mother, three brothers, and two sisters to mourn her untimely death, her father having preceded her to the spirit land. The many friends that were assembled on that beautiful June morning to see her remains laid in their last resting place; together with the beautiful flowers which loving hands placed upon her grave, shows the high appreciation in which she was held by all who knew her. May God comfort the mother who was so faithful and untiring in waiting on her daily child, and may she meet sweet Addie in that "Beautiful Home Above" - A Friend. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), June 24, 1897]

WHARTON, Dink, Obituary

Crime Of Wildcatters - Deputy Sheriff Assassinated and Officers After The Assassins
Birmingham, Ala., Aug 8 - Dink Wharton, a Cleburne county deputy sheriff, left Edwardsville yesterday, armed with warrants for the arrest of several notorious wildcatters who infest the mountainous section of that county, twenty miles northeast of Edwardsville. Today his dead body, riddled with bullets, was found in the public road near the scene of the wildcatter's operations. There were a dozen or more bullets in the corpse. It is believed that the outlaws had been apprised of Wharton's coming and waylaid and assassinated him. The sheriff has organized a posse and left of the scene of the murder, which is one of the wildest sections of Alabama, where no less than a dozen deputies have been slain by the wildcatters in the past few years. The outlaws are well armed and defiant, and it is believed if the posse encounters them a bloody battle will follow. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), August 12, 1897]

WOODS, P. M., Obituary

QUIETLY AT REST
It is with heartfelt sorrow that we chronicle the death of our beloved and worthy brother P. M. WOODS, who departed this life on the 27th day of November, 1896 at the age of 47 years of an attack of pneumonia. Brother WOODS joined the Baptist church at the age of fourteen years, and he was a faithful member until his death, serving the church as Deacon for a number of years and was chairman of the Mission Board at the time of his death. He esteemed his church relationship above everything else and never suffered any ordinary business matters to keep him from his church meetings. He had but little taste for religious literature apart from the Bible and held that we needed no other book to make us wise until salvation. In his death Shiloh church and vicinity have lost one of their brightest lights. He came into the church a pious youth and left a faithful worker.

He leaves a wife, one daughter, and two sons. J. W. WOODS, the elder of the two, was a ministerial student at Howard College at the time of his father's death.

Having been in delicate health for a number of years he had made preparations, and expressed himself as being ready and waiting for the change. After giving his family some instructions relative to his business affairs and urging them to help each other in bearing life's burdens and to a faithful discharge of their Christian duties he quietly passed away.

We tender our heartfelt sympathies to the sorrow stricken companion and children. May they lean on the strong arm of Him who has promised to be a present help in time of need to those who trust Him.

A FRIEND [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), January 14, 1897]

YOUNG, Mrs. Martha T., Obituary

On Wednesday afternoon about five o'clock Mrs. MARTHA T. YOUNG, wife of Capt. JAMES P. YOUNG died at their home at Bedford. The event was not altogether unexpected for she had been in declining health for several months. About four o'clock the Probate and Courier office s were called up by telephone and the sad message came that "Mother has been very weak today and is growing weaker. She is now sleeping soundly, but we do not believe that she will live through the night." A few moments later came the news that she was at rest. To her children who realize so keenly how much they owe to her for their success in life. The goodness and greatness of her mental and moral traits being so prominently shown in her life that her death though at a fairly advanced age is a great sorrow to them. A fitting tribute from the pen of a friend will appear next week. [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), July 8, 1897]

YOUNG, Marvin Pierce, Obituary

IN MEMORIAM

"The good, the gay die first: While those, whose hearts are as summer dust, Burn to the socket"

Died at the residence of his father at Bedford, Lamar County, Alabama, on the 5th day of November 1897, in the 24th year of his age, Marvin Pierce Young.

The demise of anyone leaves its blight upon the hearts of some sad mourners, whether in the budding of youth, the prince of manhood, or the ripeness of old age. But when the fall destroyer lays his withering hand upon young springing manhood, rich in the promise of honorable achievement and deeds whose usefulness leave their lasting monuments behind them- then, woe is wide spread, and sorrow is almost inconsolable.

Untimely deaths were ever given a sanctity to grief, typified through all ages in the classic aphorism "whom the Gods love die early" or the dumb eloquence of the marble monument with its broken column. Of such was the subject of this tribute which the writer pays with deeper feeling than would ordinarily be aroused at the death of an acquaintance; for he had often marked the purity, excellence, and amiability of the character of this young man, and knows, how much of merit, manliness and usefulness the grave has covered.

The plain record of his life, unadorned by the ornament so eulogy, may point a goodly moral, and afford a shining example to those he leaves behind him. From his earliest youth, the light of Christian influence has never been dim upon his pathway. He became at an early age a member of the Methodist church in which he evinced the spirit of usefulness, ever present with him, filling the place of steward for several years, serving with zeal and efficiency at an age when youth, usually allured by worldly pleasures, has not even directed a serious thought to relation - far less put on armor for the Christian's struggles. His education was acquired in the public schools of his native country and the normal college at Florence and he himself has taught several schools with the exemplary ability which has always characterized his work in any undertaking with which he has ever been connected. In 1894 he took service with the telephone system, which has not only connected the important business points of this county and the surrounding seats of justice, but has put the people of Lamar in communication with the important market towns of the neighboring counties of Mississippi. He rendered useful service in the towns of Columbus, West Point and Aberdeen, at which last place he was the manager at the time of his death - winning as in other occupations the esteem and confidence of all with whom he was associated, so well attested by the many anxious inquiries regarding him from these towns, during his lingering illness, which have sped over the wires of the system which his hands had so ably assisted in building up, and his skill had perfected. His ultimate design was to adopt the profession of law, and he would have entered that department of The University of Alabama this fall. That he would have adorned this high calling is not to be doubted, or that his earnestness diligence, and spotless integrity would have advanced him to the front rank among the members of the bar of any state in which he might have cast his fortunes. But God, whose infinitude our mortal comprehension cannot compass, for His own good purpose, has seen fit to arrest this noble life in the midst of this usefulness and certain promise of good results; leaving those who mourn him, the memory of those fleeting years so well employed, that though sorrow may not be effected, yet it may be assuaged until in this own good time the perfect consolation comes. And what one viewing the symmetry of this well rounded life would be willing to purchase exemption from sorrow by a forgetfulness of it? He had accomplished Christian duty by a practical observation of it. He had found that the elements of gentility in charity and consideration for others; and the key to success in the conscientious faithful use of his energies wherever he had been called upon to exercise them. Wherever have been his associations, there will ever be a lasting pleasant memory. Thus much has he won in twenty-four brief years. What a full fruitage of golden sheaves, rich and ripe for the garnering, would he have brought with him had the full measure of human life been allotted.

But his work is done, his rest has come, and loving ones will yearly place the flowers upon his grave fragrant as the memory of his blameless life, until they greet him as he walks the shining vales of Paradise, with a joy unclouded by the thought of any future parting.

S. J. S.

DEATH OF MARVIN P. YOUNG
This (Friday) morning the sad news of the death of MARVIN P. YOUNG came over the phone. He had been sick with slow fever at his home in Bedford, Ala, for nearly three months, during which time his noble nature, patient endurance and Christian fortitude were manifested in a supreme degree. His many friends here - and they were many, indeed - had noted his critical condition for the past few weeks with prayerful anxiety and the sad news of his untimely demise cast a shadow of gloom over this entire community. Mr. YOUNG was the efficient manager of our splendid telephone system, and his enterprising efforts in our midst during the past two years, together with his upright and honorably walk in every day life had placed him high in the esteem and estimation of all who knew him. Genial, gentle and kind, honest and brave, he was one of nature's noblemen of the most royal Southern style. He was just entering the 25th year of his age and the future had already spread out before him the most flattering promises and flushed his life with brightest hopes. The news of his death falls like a pall of sadness upon a once joyous scene and his friends turn aside to drop a tear to his fond memory. The Ledger has lost a close personal friend and our city a most worthy and valuable citizen. He was a consistent member of the Methodist Church - [Aberdeen (Miss.) Ledger, Nov. 5 [Vernon Courier, (Vernon, AL), November 11, 1897]