 |
| |
|
| ||
In Memory of Isaac Byrd
Died Nov. 27, 1935
Isaac Byrd, 88, pioneer citizen of Rhea County and one of the few remaining veterans of the War Between the States, died on Wednesday, Nover 27, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Betty Worthington, at Old Washington. Funeral services were held from the Washington Baptist Church at 10 O'Clock Sunday, the Rev. I. M. Rainey officiating. Interment in Montgomery Cemetery. Members of the American Legion served as pallbearers. Coulter's in charge.
He was born in Blount County, Tennessee, April 24th, 1847 and died November 27th, 1935. His age was 88 years, 7 months and 3 days. On September8, 1864 as a young man scarcely more than a boy he joined the Union Army, serving until the end of the civil war and receiving an honorable discharge July 27, 1865. Having been converted while a young man he became a different type of soldier, "a Soldier of the Lord," and joined the Baptist Church of which he has been a faithful member for more than half a century. Much of that time he has served as clerk of the Church or in some other active place.
On April 6, 1869, he was united in marriage to Nancy Hare, who was a devout Christian women, and their home, which was soon established in Rhea County, became a religious center of the town of Washington.
Daddy Byrd (as he was often called) was a man of systematic habits, of great courage and determination, loyal to his party, his friends his loved ones and his Church.
He has expressed many times lately his readiness to go and meet his Maker and be reunited with his wife and three children, who departed this life several years ago.
He set his earthly business also in order, even planning certain parts of his funeral and requesting that if a stone marker his grave it bear these words: "The Lord is my Shepard, I shall not want,"
His life still speaks and will continue to speak in this community.
He leaves to mourn his loss, nine children: N. C., Bettie, Samantha, Vira, Bud, William, Rector and Robert. Also forty grandchildren and fifty great-grandchildren. Other relatives and a host of friends.
Submitted by Carol Byrd Great-Grandaughter (born 1954)
Seth Tallent
Died: 05-16-2002
Seth Tallent, 82, of Spring City, died Thursday, May 16, 2002, at his residence.
Born in Rhea Springs, he was the son of the late Q.A. and Ethel Phillips Tallent. He was a graduate of Spring City High School and retired after 32 years as a carpenter for Oak Ridge Union Carbide. A well-known lifetime member of the Rhea County Historical Society, he was appointed by the Rhea County Commission as Historian of Rhea County. Mr. Tallent was a member of the Wolf Creek Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Nixson, Alvin and Russell Tallent and sisters, Hazel Williams, Mary Brown and Ruth Daniels.
Survivors include Henrietta Crosby Tallent of Spring City, four sons, William Joseph "Joe" Tallent of Concord, N.C., Paul Tallent of Spring City, James Tallent of Huntersville, N.C. and Glen Tallent of Daniels, W.Va., nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be conducted Sunday at 1:30 p.m. in the chapel of Vaughn Funeral Home with the Rev. Paul Forgery officiating. Burial will be in the Spring City Cemetery.
The family will visit with friends Saturday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.
HUGH BAXTER CLACK
May 15, 1868 - January 14, 1949
Resident of Bozeman, Mont. since1903, born in Roddy, Tenn., married Anna Bertha East April 7, 1903, a carpenter by trade until his retirement in 1937, member of Carpenters Union local no. 557, survivors were his wife, Ernest E. Clack of Bozeman, Marvin Clack of Missoula and Reba Young of Jacksonville, Texas, granddaughter Lucille Young. Three sisters; Mrs. Sam Galloway of West Plains, Mo., - Mrs. J.H. Manis of Bradenton, Fla - a brother, R.M. Clack of Roddy, Tenn. Interred in the Sunset Hills cemetery.
MARGARET (Kerr) CLACKIN MEMORIAM
Mrs. Margaret (Kerr) Clack, wife of Micajah Clack, was born in Sevier County, Tennessee, June 5th, 1796, and died at her husband's residence in Rhea County, Tennessee, September 10th, 1877, aged 84 years, 3 months and 5 days.
The deceased won the respect and confidence of all who knew her, by her strict integrity on character, and her quiet peaceable life. She was a considerate and dutiful wife, a tenderly affectionate mother, a faithful friend and a kind neighbor. She made a public profession of her faith in Christ, by uniting with the Baptist church in the year 1833, of which she lived a most acceptable member until her death, beautifully exemplifying the character of a true christian. She exhibited her profession by a scrupuous observance and constant practice of christian duties., In her fireside conversation, she often spoke of the peerless excellence of the 'man Christ Jesus' and often while discanting upon the beauties of holiness, now lowering cloud meanwhile intercepted her soul's sunshine; and she rejoiced in hope of a blessed immortality beyond the grave. She ever acknowledged God as the primal source of every enjoyment. As a christian matron, she sought to lead her family into the golden paths of wisdom and holiness. Her deportment in every ..........in life was a continued display of blended virtues; a scene of practical religion, worthy the emulation of every christian.
Mother's health had been declining for several years previous to her death, though confined to her room and almost entirely helpless, yet she was cheerful, and always greeted her friends with a pleasant smile and a hearty welcome. (She was gored by a cow and was bedridden almost 10 years-EC)
Her last illness was severe and protracted, but she bore her afflictions with christian fortitude. Often as she drew near the gates of death, she expressed herself as resigned to God's will and ready to depart - All her thoughts, up to the hour of her death, seemed to be celestial, constantly marching onward to the realms of bliss ineffable. A short time before she expired, she called upon her children around her bed to sing that good old hymn, "O, sing to me of heaven; When I am called to die". Then her spirit passed away, in peace and tranquility, into the paradise of God, there to bask forever in the smiles of the blessed Redeemer. I feel rejoiced to know that when life was ebbing out as an evanesceat taper, she left the consoling evidence that all was well. Then in conclusion I would say, rest on, dear mother, with the pale sleepers of the silent city. By faith we behold thee robed and crowned for the society of heaven.
Dear Father, brothers and sisters, we are left to battle a while longer, while she has been called home by the Prince of Peace - Let us cherish her memory, as an influence irresistibly winning us to a land of perpetual light, and may we, as the fragments of a once happy family, meet her in heaven's bright world.
Wm. R. Clack
MICAJAH CLACKIN MEMORIAM Died, August 16th., 1886, at his residence in Rhea County, Tenn., Mr. Micajah Clack, aged 87 yrs., 2 Mo., and 25 days. He was born in Wayne County, Ky., May 21st, 1799. His father removed with him to Sevier County, Tenn., while he was a lad; where he grew up and was married to Miss Margaret Kerr, daughter of Robert and Amy Kerr, on the 28th day of Sept., 1820. He afterwards removed to Bradley County, Tenn., and from thence to Rhea County, Tenn about the year 1839. He leaves surviving him four sons and two daughters, (his wife and four sons have fallen asleep). He made a public profession of his faith in Christ by uniting with the Baptist Church in July 1833, of which he lived a most acceptable member to the end of his life -beautifully exemplifying the character of a true christian.
Father's health had been declining for several years. His ast illness was severe and protracted, but he bore his sufferings with christian fortitude. Often as he drew near the gates of death, he expressed himself as resting fully upon the merits of Christ for acceptance before God, as resigned to God's will, and ready to depart. He said Jesus was near and precious, and that he was drawing near his eternal home. Several times during the two last weeks of his life he called upon Bro. Johnson and others to sing for him, and amid intense sufferings he rejoiced and praised God.
He said he soon would be free from all pain and be with Christ. Thus his spirit passed away, in peace and tranquility, through the gate of death to join his kindred spirits, and to increase and enliven the happified throngs in the home of the blessed. His devoted children, relatives and friends mourn his departure with the firm belief that he has joined the crown of the finally faithful. "May our last end be like his."
His remains were intered according to his own dictationsin the Clack burrying ground, near James Ewing's, at 9:30 o'clock a. m., on the 17th inst., amid a large crowd of friends. Love for his many virtues and a tear of sorrow to his memory.
W.R.C. Roddy, Tenn., August 25th, 1886
SABRIA NEWPORT CLACK
Spring City (By Herald Correspondent)Mrs. Sabria Caroline Clack, widow of the late William Raleigh Clack, died Tuesday morning, May 15th, age 85 years,1 month and 10 days. She was the daughter of the late Rev. and Mrs. Asa Newport. She had been a devoted Christian since early girlhood and was the last (surviving - ECS) charter member of the Friendship Baptist Church. She is survived by six children, 25 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Her children areMrs. S.M. Sharp of Spring City, with whom she made her home; Mrs. E.W. Galloway of Tampa, Fla.; Mrs. J.H. Manis of Bradenton, Fla.; Mrs. S.J. Galloway of West Plains, Mo.; H.B. Clack of Bozeman, Mont.; and R.M. Clack of Spring City. Funeral services were held from the Friendship Church Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock, conducted by Rev. T.O. Dake, of Meigs County. Interment took place in the Friendship Cemetery. The following grandsons served as active pallbearers; William Clack, Jack Sharp, Ervin Simpson, Jas. Roddy, Morgan Clack and William Chattin.
(NOTE: The above list of 'grandsons' is inaccurate. Of those named, only William Clack and Morgan Clack were actually grandsons, the others were husbands of her granddaughters -- EC)
IN MEMORY In Memory of Mrs. W.R. Clack, (Sabria Newport) of Roddy, Tenn., Who Departed This Life May 15th, 1934. Age 85 Years, 1 Month, 20 Days. Mother Because of the rain, there's a rainbow; Because of our work we have play; Because of the light of the stars at night there is peace at the close of the day; Because of our faith we are hopeful; Because of our love, we are true; Because of His heed of our constant need, Dear Mother, God gave us you. Although Mother has been gone from us one long year, yet she is ever present in our memory. Her every walk in life was a continued display of blended virtues; a scene of practical religion worthy the emulating of all who knew her. may we, as the fragments of a once happy family, join in the thoughts of the following lines: "Blessed hope, Oh cheering thought! We all may meet once more, when that good fight of faith is fought we'll reach that heavenly shore. Oh joyful meeting round the throne where angels tongues shall sing a glorious welcome, welcome home to Jesus Christ, our King.
By Mrs. J.H. Manis Bradenton, Fla.
W. ROLLIE CLACK
(William Raleigh Clack)Perhaps no man in Rhea county will be missed in more useful ways then the object of this sketch. He was born eighty years ago and had spent his entire life in this county ans was known and was highly respected by all who knew him. He was one of our best ............ and it was said of him that ............. men were like Rollie Clack there would be no use for laws to protect the good or restrain the bad.
He was a consistent member of the Baptist church sixty years, his seat hardly ever being vacant, and his influence was always on the right side of all religious or moral questions. He has been a Mason since 1864 and lived up to all its teachings. He was also a Confederate Veteran.
His funeral services were held at Old Friendship Church Sunday, April 27. The sermon, which was one of the most appropriate tributes the writer has ever listened to, was preached by Rev. Dake. The life of Brother Clack was a blessing to his neighbors, and to his family an inheritance that is more enduring than time and more to be treasured than wealth.
His body was tenderly laid to rest in the beautiful cemetery near Old Friendship Church by sorrowing friends, the service at the grave being conducted by Spring City Lodge A.F.&A.M.
The family have the heartfelt sympathy of his entire acquaintances, who are many, and we all join in saying "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord".
OBITUARY OF OUR BELOVED BROTHER, W. R. CLACK Whereas: God in his alwise providence, saw fit, on April 25th 1919, to call from our Church to the Church Triumphant our beloved brother, William Raleigh Clack, who was one of the two remaining charter members, whose names now stand upon our church roll, and who assisted liberally with his means and labor in building this church house, dedicated to the worship of Almighty God, and
Whereas, Brother Clack has served this Church as Clerk continuously since its organization in November 1875, to the present time, and has made us a good record, written in a plain, legible hand, covering about 265 pages, which record is self explanatory, and will stand as a living monument to the former actions of this Church, and Whereas, Brother Clack has served this Church as Deacon, for more than forty-three years, has lived an exemplary, christian life, been a faithful member of the Baptist Church for more than half a century, prompt in his attendance at church services, liberal in the support of the Church and all benevolent and charitable purposes; therefore, Be it resolved by the Church at old Friendship, that we pause for a few moments, in our march through time, to express our great appreciation for his long and faithful services to this Church, for his loyalty to God, and also for his moral and christian influence in the community.
Be it further resolved; that to sister (Sabria)Clack, his wife, who has so faithfully assisted him in all his work in the Masters cause, we express our deepest sympathy in her bereavement. May she lean upon the all-tried arm of our Savior, and as her physical strength declines, may her spiritual strength increase, and the light and hope of Heaven grow brighter and stronger, until the dawning of the perfect day. This June the 21st 1919. Respectfully submitted, S.B. Moulton R.E. Snow
W.D. SmithWILLIE ROLLIE CLACK Spring City, Tenn., April 29 -- William Rollie (Raleigh) Clack, the last of the olde families who were prominent in Rhea county from its earliest history, died at his home three miles east of Roddy, April 25, aged 80 years, of paralysis, and was buried at the Old Friendship church and burying ground in the presence of one of the largest gatherings ever congregated at that place. Mr. Clack was made a Mason in old Washington lodge in 1864 and moved his membership to Rhea Springs lodge in March, 1869. After religious services by the Rev. Dake the Masons of Rhea Springs lodge, F.&A.M., took charge and laid the body in the grave with the solemn and impressive asonic ceremonies.
Mr. Clack had held many positions of trust, as well as official positions in Rhea county and never was there heard an unkind or censorious criticism in any capacity, being well and favorably known not only in Rhea, but in Meigs and Roane counties as well. There were many of his friends at the funeral from these counties.
REVERAND LEWIS F. GALLAHERObituary from the Chattanooga Times , dated March 18, 1970.
Gallaher, Reverend Lewis F., 74, Evensville, Tennessee died Monday nite in a Rhea County hospital. He was a retired Baptist minister. A son of the late W. T. and Mary Carpenter Gallaher. He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Mary Lockhart, Chattanooga; one son John Gallaher, Pasadena, Califonria; 10 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; one niece, Mrs Ollie Johnson, Dallas, Texas; three nephews, John Pelfrey, Thomas Pelfrey and Foley Pelfrey, Battle Creek, Michigan. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. from the Smyrna Baptist Church with the Reverend G. L. Watkins and Reverend Ulless Keith officiating. Active pallbearers Carroll Smith, Henry Harris, Robert Caldwell, Glen Woody, Leonard Humphrey and George Waldo. Burial in Smyrna Cemetery. The body is to lie at the funeral home until the hour of service. Vaughno Spring City, in Charge.
EMMA ACUFF GARDENHIREObituary of Emma Acuff Gardenhire - Chattanooga Times Special, Dayton, Tenn., June 2, 1920
Mrs. Emma Acuff Gardenhire died at he home in South Dayton Tuesday Evening. she was 67 years of age last October. Five months ago she suffered a stroke of paralysis and had never been able to leave her room since. On Tuesday morning she suffered a second stroke, which resulted in her death. funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at the Cumberland Presbyterian church, of which Mrs. Gardenhire was a member, conducted by the pastor, the Rev. A. C. Stribling. Interment at Buttram cemetery. Deceased is survived by only one brother, J. Acuff, with whom she made her home.
S. M. HEIRD"Death Claims S. M. Heird"
The Rockwood Times, Rockwood, TN, Thursday, 25 Mar 1926, Vol. 46, No. 12S. M. Heird was born March 5, 1853, and died Tuesday, March 16. The funeral services were held at the M. E. Church, Spring City, Rev. Fred Denton in charge. Mr. Heird was married to Pheobe Louisa Floyd Oct. 24, 1874. There were eleven children born to this union. They are: W. B. Heird of Chattanooga, J. N. Heird of Birmingham, Ala., Walter Heird of Spring City, Mrs. J. A. Mincy of Rhea Springs, Mrs. Boas Aikman of Peakland, Mrs. T. A. Hicks and Mrs. Anna White of Spring City. There are thirty-two grandchildren. Mr. Heird was converted when a young man and joined the M. E. Church, of which he was a faithful member until death. A host of relatives and friends mourn the loss of their brother.
JAMES JOHNSON
from Goodspeed's History of East Tennessee, 1887
James Johnson, a well-known farmer of the First District, was born in Rhea County, Tenn., May 27, 1818. He is the youngest of nine children (four now living) born to William and Sarah (Forbish) Johnson. The father was born in Virginia in 1766. He was a tinset by trade. About 1803 or 1804, he immigrated to Rhea County, Tenn., being the seventh man who settled there. He purchased land and became a successful farmer. His death occurred about 1842. The mother was born about 1769 on New River, S.C., and died in Rhea County about 1845. For forty-eight years she was a devout member of the Primitive Baptist Church, to which her husband belonged fifty-four years.
The paternal grandfather was a native of Ireland, who settled in Virginia. Our subject has had but meager educational advantages, but by observation and reading has become possessed of a vast amount of practical knowledge. He remained with his parents until his majority. He then rented a farm in Meigs County. After raising one crop he returned home and remained until the death of his parents. January 1, 1849, he moved to Bledsoe (now Cumberland) County, and bought a farm. He engaged in the mercantile business about 1853 in Grassy Cove, Bledsoe County.
In 1857 he sold his farm and bought 200 acres of land. Since that time he has been trading. He now owns 320 acres in Rhea County and 200 in Cumberland County. July 4, 1859, he entered the store of Dr. D.M. Roddy, at Prestonville Post Office. He remained there until July 2, 1861. He then enlisted in Company G, Twenty-sixth Tennessee (Confederate Army), under command of John M. Lillard. Captain of the company was Crawford. Our subject went out as orderly sergeant, and two months later was made quartermaster. He resigned after the battle of Fort Donelson. He was the only man who brought his stock through to Murfreesboro. He was elected captain of a home company, and entered a battalion of cavalry commanded by Maj. B.F. Walker. He was discharged January 6,1864. He was in the battle of Fort Donelson, and at Beans Station, and near Chickamauga. He was never wounded nor taken prisoner. His accumulations were lost during the war. Since that time he has been successfully engaged in farming and trading. He was justice of the peace of the First District twenty- seven years. He has served as chairman of the county court. He was a delegate to the convention which nominated President Cleveland. For fifty-one years he has been a member of the Primitive Baptist Church. He is a stanch Democrat, an enterprising citizen, and firm advocate of educational interests.
December 28, 1840, he married Mary J., daughter of John O. and Jane (Simcox) Thompson. She was born March 12, 1824, in Roane County, Tenn., and died in Rhea County December 20, 1857. She was not a church member, but a believer in religion. This union resulted in eight children. Those living are William H., Calvin G., Sallie, Nettie and N.B.: those deceased are Elizabeth, Jane, and W.W. September 15, 1864, our subject married Amy, daughter of Micajah Clack. She was born in Meigs County, Tenn., February 20, 1829. She is a lady of cultivation and a member of the Baptist Church.
From the 1895 minutes of the Hiwassee Baptist Association:
IN MEMORIAM Elder James Johnson was born in Rhea County, Tennessee, on May 27, 1818. Under the tuition of his devotedly pious father and mother he never used a profane oath, even through life. And this was the more remarkable because he grew up in the crude and wild condition of the country before civilization had made much progress. But little literary training could be had. Two or three months, at most, in the old field schools of that period for a few years was an advanced education. In this condition of affairs Bro. Johnson reached his thriteenth year when he became conscious of his lost condition. For a little more than a year he gave but little thought to any other subject.
When he had reached his fourteenth year the light shone into his dark mind and it pleased God, who called him by His grace, to reveal in him His Son, Jesus Christ. Immediately he conferred not with flesh and blood, but joined the church at Old Bethel. He was shown his sinful and helpless condition and pointed to Christ under the ministry of Elder Daneil Briggs, who was one of the pioneer and able ministers of that or any other time. Bro. Johnson's changed life bore unimpeachable testimony to a regenerated nature, which was a characteristic of the man through life and presented him as a christian of the highest type, a hero of the faith, and a faithful minister of the gospel.
In 1840 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Jane Thompson, of the neighborhood in which he was raised. To them were born three sons and two daughters, who survive their father. Three others died in infancy. This marriage was, in all respects, a happy one till about 1854, when his wife died. He bore his affliction without murmuring, in that sweet submisssion that said, "Thy will be done."
In 1864 he was united in marriage to Miss Amy Clack, his surviving but grief-smitten widow. Again Bro. Johnson was fortunate in his choice of a partner, as he found a helpmate indeed in every department of their life's labor--they in full enjoyed each other's confidence and unsullied affection to the end. In 1867 he was licensed to preach.
His ministerial zeal, which appeared to be according to knowledge, led him to the strong entrenchment of confidence in him by his brethern in all of the churches, as well as by an exacting public. He soon developed in the pulpit the correct expositor of "The principles of the doctrine of Christ;" the wise counsellor, the eloquent exhorter, the judicious disciplinarian, and faithful pastor.
In 1868 he was ordained to the full work of the ministry by prayer and imposition of hands of the presbytery composed of Elders J. B. McCallon, A. Newport and R. T. Howard. He sometimes reached sublime heights when exhorting sinners to repentance. He went among them with Christ crucified, Jesus and the resurrection his only theme, "the broken spirit, the broken and contrite heart" the only human sacrifice allowed upon God's altar, then "testifying both to the jews and also to the greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ;" lowly and still lower humility the only way to reach the throne of grace; obedience to the ordinances and teachings of the gospel the evidences of a regenerated nature.
He was the most of his ministerial life pastor of four churches, which were fairly successful, never having any confusion among them, but "endeavoring to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace. He was a living practical embodiment of the principles which he taught. A devotedly tender husband, a gentle father , thus securing obedience from his children; a kind neighbor with an open ear and hand to hear the cry and to releive the wants of the needy poor, and with songs and prayers and consoling promises ever ready to enter the homes of the sorrowing, the sick and dying; an impartial magistrate; a faithful friend, and all that enters into the make-up of a good man.
For several years he was afflicted, but uncomplainingly bore it. His last sickness was attended with great suffering. But in it all his theme was religion, and as long as his mind was clear his confidence was unshaken in the love and ability of his Savior. He died March 29, 1895, aged 76 years, 10 months and days.
The high esteem in which he was held was manifested y the immense concourse of people in attendance at his funeral services conducted by his life-long friend and fellow laborer, Elder J. B. McCallon. His remains were laid to restin the Newport cemetery. The assemblage was largely composed of the aged from Rhea, Cumberland, Roane and Meigs counties.
from the "Records of Rhea" by T.J. Campbell
CAPTAIN JAMES H. JOHNSON Colonel William Johnson, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Virginia in 1766. His wife, Sarah Forbush, was born in South Carolina in 1769. They came to Rhea County before it was a county, in 1803. He is said to be the seventh white man to settle in the territory, which was then still occupied by the Indians. The county was not organized until early in 1808. He was a commander of the county militia for a number of years; a record shows that he designated certain persons to serve as guards in the Hiwassee Garrison in 1814.
In 1859 the son, James H. Johnson, lived in the Tennessee Valley, a mile or two south of White's Creek where the Dixie Highway now crosses under the Cincinnati Southern Railroad (currently, 1997, known as the Waldo farm - EC). He was then serving as salesman in D. M. Roddy's mercantile establishment and acting as postmaster in the village of Prestonville, later to become Roddy. A record of Capt. Johnson's birth is not available, but he married to Mary J. Thompson, December 25, 1840.
In 1861, though past military age, Capt. Johnson enlisted in Company G, 26th Tennessee Infantry (Confederate) and became quartermaster of the regiment. At the Battle of Fort Donelson, where his regiment was surrendered to the Union forces under General Grant, he was the only quartermaster to escape with his stock, which he broughtto Murfreesboro. He then resigned and proceeded to raise a company of old men and boys, known in army annals as "Silver Grays." This company served in the remarkable command of Major B. F. Welcker of Roane County, and the organization of which it was a part held the Confederate line from the Tennessee River at Citico Creek to Missionary Ridge, when General Rosecrans was being beseiged in Chattanooga after the Battle of Chickamauga.
Capt. Johnson was among the honored citizens of the upper end of Rhea County. A Baptist minister and a Democrat, he was always outspoken in his opinions on any question or issue. He was an alternate delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1884, which nominated Grover Cleveland and Thomas A. Hendricks for president and vice-president. He later had the pleasure, subsequently, of personally felicitating Mr. Hendricks on his election.
HUBERT C. MANIS
July 18, 1909 - July 26, 1968
Listed as survivors: Wife, Marian; son, James Morgan, 12; daughter, Jean Marie, 12; mother, Mrs. James H. Manis of Tampa, Fla; brother, Lawrence of Bartow, Fla; three sisters, Mrs. Ben Newsom of San Antonio, Tex. - Mrs. Kimball Turner of Tampa, Fla. - Mrs. Howard L. Keever of Ellenton, Fla.
J.M. MANIS
October 11, 1905 - July 26, 1941
Of Baton Rouge. Died after a long illness. Survived by his wife and one stepson, Corporal W.C. Blanchard, Jr.S
SARAH C. MANIS
February 21, 1876 - December 12, 1968
A native of Rhea County, Tennessee, lived in Tampa for 20 years, member of the Trinity Baptist Church. Survivors; a son, Lawrence T. Manis of Bartow - daughters; Mrs. Gladys A. Newson of San Antonia, Texas - Mrs. Irma M. Keever of Ellington and Mrs. Marguerite Turner of Tampa.
THOMAS J. MANIS
April, 1948
Listed as survivors: Wife, Ethel Pickel Manis; four daughters, Mrs. Tom (Bonnie) Hammer of Hardin - Mrs. R.J. (Etta Lee) Findley of Woodsboro, Texas - Mrs. Vernie (Lona) Scofield of Novinger, Mo. - Mrs.Robt. (Ethel) Brownlee of Big Timber. Daughter, Mrs. R.A.(Beulah) Findley had passed away in Salt Lake City in 1937. He also had sixteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren surviving.
Mr. Manis was born in Cleveland, Tenn., on Sept. 1, 1876, and grew to manhood near Kingston, Roane County, Tenn. When a young man he joined the Baptist church and remained a member throughout his lifetime. On April 6,1899, he was united in marriage with Ethel Pickel at Rhea Springs, Tenn., and in March, 1901, they came to Montana, locating at the Work Ranch on Mission Creek, with his brother, W.H. and J.H. Manis. In the fall of that year, he moved to Sweet Grass county and was engaged in ranching and stock raising until 1939 when he moved to the Gallatin Valley. Five years later the family moved to Harrison where Mr. Manis and his son, Paul, operated a stock ranch for four years.
ASA NEWPORT
The following obit was printed in the "Signs of the Times" Vol. 45 Middletown, N.Y., April 15, 1877 - No.8
ELDER ASA NEWPORT, an aged Baptist minister, died at his residence in Rhea County, Tenn. He was born Oct. 7, 1802, professed religion in 1829, and joined the church on the second Saturday in November, the same year. On the third Saturday in November, 1832, he was liberated by the church to exercise his gift in public; on the 4th of July, 1833, was appointed assistant clerk; on July 5th., 1833, was given a written license to preach and exhort wherever the Lord in his providence might call him; Jan. 6th, 1834, was chosen clerk; at the July meeting, 1838, was ordained to the full work of the ministry, by brethern C. Galloway, Wm. Green, J.J. Monger, and Briggs; was called to the pastoral care of the church at Hind's Valley, October 1840, and in February, 1849, by request, too the care of the church at Mt. Pleasant, Grassy Cove, Tenn., and at the same time was also petitioned to attend the church at Little Emery.
The subject of this sketch was a man with whom I have long been acquainted, and very intimately. He was taken very bad about 3 o'clock a.m. Dec. 15, 1876, and died in about twelve hours. My residence and his being about one mile apart, the family sent for me and I went at once. When I arrived I found him almost speechless. He grasped my hand, fully recognizing me, and tried to call me brother Johnson. While suffering great agony, his very countenance showed love to God and love to man. From my long and intimate acquaintance with him, socially and religiously, as a neighbor and a brother, (and may I not say as a father in the gospel?) how could I doubt but his soul is now in heaven? For christianity means something. I speak with reference to scripture. It means to follow the Lord Jesus Christ, to live soberly, righteoursly and godly in the world. By their works ye shall know them. And when I attended brother Newport in his dying moments, I was led to no other conclusion but that he lived and died a christian. He left behind an aged widow and several children, besides a large number of neighbors and friends, to mourn their loss.
(signed) James Johnson
SAMUEL P. C. ROBINSON
The Daily Times: Chattanooga 16 Jan 1917
Spring City, Tenn -- Samuel P.C. ROBINSON, one of the old substantial citizens of Rhea county, died at his home in Spring City, Jan. 15 and will be buried in the City cemetery Wednesday, the 17th, after a funeral service to be held at the home at 1 o'clock, p.m., conducted by Rev. W.H. BRIGGS, a former pastor. The deceased was born and raised in Rhea county and in his active days was a farmer and stock dealer. He was 73 years of age and had been in poor health for many months. He leaves a widow and six children: two daughters living in Georgia, one daughter in Chattanooga, and one at home; the two sons, one in LaFayette, GA., and one at South Pittsburg, Tenn. He served four years in the confederate army, was in many battles and bore the scar of a saber on his head to the day of his death.
AMANDA J. STINECIPHER
Obituary of Amanda J. Stinecipher Written by William Raleigh Clack (1839-1919) in 1917
Another well known footfall is missed, another family altar is mantled in mourning. Yesterday morning, March 18, just as the sun was shedding his silver rays of light on the eastern horizon, God called away the gentle spirit of Amanda Jane Stinecipher from earthly suffering and sorrow to that home that awaits His children.
Sister Amanda, the daughter of L.J. and Mary Tredway was born March 4, 1877, married A. J. Stinecipher, Jan. 5, 1893. She gave herself to Jesus at the age of 15-joined the church in Oct. 1905, to which she was faithful and true till her death, which occured March 18, 1917, at 5 o'clock a.m. at the age of 40 years and 14 days. She has left surviving her a husband and 2 children, an aged mother, 1 sister and 5 brothers.
Sister Amanda is not dead but sleepeth.
(Found in the misc. papers of William Raleigh Clack (1839-1919) in the possession of his grandson, William Baxter Clack b. 1907). Transcribed by Edna Clack Sachs 1986.
JAMES OSBORNE TAYLOR
A GOOD CITIZEN GONE.
The death of J.O. Taylor, after a long illness. December 6, 1895, Dayton, Tennessee. The death of James Osborne Taylor, at his home near Washington, (Tennessee) last Friday, removes one of the most honorable citizens of Rhea County.
Mr. Taylor was well known in the county, and enjoyed the confidence and esteem of a wide circle of friends who deeply regret his death. The funeral took place on Sunday, and a large company of friends and neighbors paid their last tribute of respect to an exemplary citizen, and a noble hearted gentleman.
MRS. JULIA A. TAYLOR
Mrs. Julia A. Taylor, (91) widow of the late Osborne Taylor, died at her home ten miles north of Dayton, Tennessee, Saturday afternoon, following a brief illness.
Her parents were the late Dempsey Findley and wife, Judith Venable Findley of Calhoun, Georgia: Her brothers were Capt. William Venable Findley, John Findley, Dempsey Harris Findley: Three sisters, Mrs. Sara Shaw, Mrs. Alexander Odom and Mrs. G.T. Smith, all of whom preceded her in death.
The earliest ancestor of Mrs. Taylor, on record, is William Venable, Duke of Vernon, in Normandy: He having assumed the last name from the town, or district of Vernon, of which he was sole proprietor.
There were six Findley's among the colonists, who were ancestors, coming over on the Mayflower. Surviving Mrs. Taylor are five sons: W.G., T.M., L.P., J.B. and W.H. Taylor: and one daughter, Miss Emma Taylor, and several grand and great-grand children and a host of nephews and nieces.
Funeral services were held from the "Oakland farm" home, Monday, with the Rev. C.L.Cox, the Rev. R.C. Camper and the Rev. D.C.L. Wright officiating.
Active pallbearers were John D. Chattin, Arnold Lock, Eral Wilkey, John L. Day, James S. Crosby, Avery Carney, Ernest Clark and Walter Collins.
Honorary pallbearers were James Frazier, W.R. Johnson, Spiller Jones, Ben G. McKenzie, Joe Benson, Arch Benson, Creed Cunnyngham, Martin Wilkey, Earl Robinson, Dr. W.H. Cunnyngham, Euclid Waterhouse and Lee Hodges.
Dayton, Tennesssee, August 5, 1935.
JULINDA EVALINE WESTER
The following was written by William Raleigh Clack. He and Eva were engaged to be married. The relationship must have been a strong one and recognized by their families, as descendants of each occasionally get in touch with each other to this day. She was 16 years old, going on 17, and he was 22. He recorded this in his journal.
Another christian has gone to her reward. Another home smitten of God and desolate. Another well known footfall missed. Another family altar mantled with mourning. Miss Julinda Evaline Wester, died at her residence in Rhea Co., Tenn., August 2, 1861, of fever terminating in acute gastritis. She was born in Roane County, Tenn., Feby the 2nd, 1845, and was therefore in her 17th year.
The Christian character is a theme too lofty, too nearly allied to God to be ambrotysed in a memorial. It is a spiritual masterpiece beyond the province and limit of human description.
We may gather the most pleasing recollections from the shadows of memory for our structure, yet the image however vivid is dark compared to the original. No one can write a perfect obituary of a perfect christian. It is only a form without life--a soulless statue whose unmeaning stare tells us little of the archtype. The presence of the departed is necessary to make it appreciated; without, it is callous, cold and empty.
This tribute of respect, therefore, can only be interesting to those whose memories are still replete with the recollections of the one who is gone; whose influence is still felt, and whose words are yet fondly repeated.
Those who knew not Miss Evaline Wester personally will never know her this side of the grave. She was a dutiful obedient child, possessed a remarkably amiable disposition. She had received a good education having more than ordinary intellect, possessing a combination of attractions of person, mind and manners rarely met with on this earth. She delighted much in books, but the Bible was always her main sheetanchor even from childhood.
Her character was woven of graces, which like jewels of rare worth lent a luster to her life. No discordant or jarring elements in her constitution of mind or soul, but always the same--kind, affectionate and noble. Her deportment in every relation in life was a continual display of blended virtues; a scene of practical religion, worthy the emulation of every christian. Her humility and goodness recommended her everywhere, and secured to her the love of all.
She professed religion and joined the M. E. church in Roane County Tenn in the year A. D. 1857 of which she remained a faithful efficient member until she was called to leave the church militant to join the church triumphant.
As the clock struck one on the night of the 2nd of August, she breathed her last calmly and serenely without a struggle or even a frown. By her own request her lifeless body was deposited in the cemetery in Roane Co., on the Tennessee River nine miles below Kingston (where she had saw some of her nearest relatives laid) to remain until the morning of the resurrection.
There was a long concourse of people at her burying. Many wept over her remains, for she had many friends. She has left a numerous host of friends together with a kind mother and three brothers to mourn her absence but thank God they mourn not as those who have no hope for they feel that their loss is her eternal gain, for she has entered into that rest which remains to the people of God. It has been my destiny to witness many scenes of death and suffering but never can I forget the words and features of this dying girl.
About six hours before she expired she asked "does the doctor think I am dying". Not receiving a direct answer she said "do you think I will get well." I told her I feared not. I then asked her if she was willing to die. She turned her eyes up towards me and replied in a mild and gentle tone; "I have suffered so much let me reflect two minutes then I will respond.
Then settled upon her countenance a calm serenity, a brilliancy entirely unearthly and beyond the power of language to describe. When she replied, "yes, I am ready to go. I feel entire resignation and perfect reliance on my saviour. Jesus is with me." Reaching her hand to me which was bathed in the icy dews of death she said softly "Will you meet me in Heaven." I told her I would try and meet her there. "Farewell, then", she said. She then prayed the Lord to be with her and strengthen her in faith in the trying hour of death and when her last breath was gone to receive her spirit in haven. And prayed him to have mercy upon her relatives and friends who are left behind her, and to fit and prepare them for death and judgment so that when the last trump should sound that they would be enabled to meet where parting would be no more, around the eternal throne to rejoice and sing the praises of God forever.
She then turned to her mother and said Oh! mother meet me in heaven. Tell all my relatives and friends I am gone home and to meet me there. Then there was a pause in her conversation. Turning her eyes toward heaven--with a brilliant but calm and serene countenance; she appeared like a heavenly bird about to take its everlasting flight standing upon the summit of the Mount of Faith, waiting her Master's bidding and gazing with holy triumph on the shining prospect before her. No doubt angels and ministering saints was hovered nigh, watching the conflict, ready to escort her spirit home, when the summons come. There were no visible clouds of doubt lingered there. Discovering her mother weeping, she said, "Mother weep not for me" because I am called from this suffering world. Her mother then asked her if she felt prepared to go. She replied, "yes, I am ready and willing to go. Jesus is my friend."
How near her kind friends were to her heart. How dear her heart broken mother. What faith but that of the christian could break those strong ties. But it was the will of God; She bowed submissive, and in a few hours she passed the Paradise of God.
Let us all remember her dying request, "Meet me in Heaven." I for one can never forget it while I am permitted to live. That last sad request will remain "Meet me in Heaven."
Plant you an evergreen Scatter the rose, Where little Evaline Takes her repose. Dew-drops will glisten there Zephyns will play, Yet her immortal parts Passed, passed away. Gone to the Spirit land, Wafted above, Joined to that happy band Basking in love. Meet her ye earthly friends "Meet me," she cried Waving her icy hand, Calmly and died. Go to that evergreen- Kneel there and pray- Where little Evaline's Spirit may stray. Even in future life Morning and evening Remember her parting words, "Meet me in Heaven."What can I say in conclusion, to soothe the anguish of the stricken mother in the hour of bitter trial. In this hour when she is, --called to part in helpless, hopeless, brokenness of heart, from her young, her beautiful and well accomplished daughter. Nothing, nothing. My own feelings forbid the mockery of an attempt. I can only pray that God in his providence may sanctify the distressing dispensation, and the bereaved mother may be comforted with the assurance that the "pure in heart shall meet again."
Over the venerated remains of this servant of God and daughter in Israel may well be inscribed the glorious saying given to the apostle from heaven. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, from henceforth; yea, saith the spirit, they may rest from their labors and their works do follow them.
Signed W. R. Clack Rhea County Tenn Oct. 15th., 1861, then this, a few pages later:I know that thou art far away, Yet in my own despite My still expectant glances stray Inquiring for the sight Though all too sure that thy sweet face Can bless no glance of mine, At every turn, in every place, My eyes are seeking thine. I hope - how vain the hope, I know- That some propitious chance May bring thee here again to throw Thy sweetness on my glance. But loveliest one, where Oer thou art What Oer by my despair, Mine eyes will seek thee, and my heart Will love thee every where, Bye, Miss Eva.
Return to the Rhea County Family Archives
Return to Rhea County Home Page
This TNGenWeb Project website is hosted by USGenNet, a nonprofit web-hosting service solely supported by tax-deductible donations. If this website has provided you with useful information, please consider making a donation to USGenNet to help keep websites like this online.