Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 19, 1936, Page 3: "Conasauga Valley News---Mrs. Arizona Duckett, widow of Rev. Robert Duckett, passed away at the home of Henry Watson on last Tuesday night. Funeral services were held Thursday at Mt. Isabell with Biereley Funeral Home in charge." _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 26, 1936, Page 1: "In Memory---On Tuesday night, Feb. 11, at the dark midnight hour the angel of death visited the home of Mr. & Mrs. Henry Watson and claimed as its own their aunt, Mrs. Arizona Duckett, wife of the late Rev. R.C. Duckett, who preceded her to the grave several years ago. She was the daughter of William and Matilda Williams. She was 68 years, four months and eleven days old at the time of her death. She professed faith in Christ in early girlhood and united with the Mt. Isabel Baptist Church where she was still a member at the time of her death. She leaves to mourn her loss one brother, C.B. Williams of Tellico Plains, and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. J.E. Vaughn and the body was laid to rest in the Mt. Isabel Cemetery." ---Written by her niece. _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, (Monroe Co. TN) Wednesday, September 1, 1937: "Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Wayman celebrated their twentieth wedding anniversary at their home on the Niles Ferry Road last Thursday. Only the immediate relatives were invited. A number of beautiful presents were received." __________________________________________________________________ The Madisonville Democrat, (Monroe Co. TN) Thursday, February 28, 1957: "Mrs. Wayman Dies At Sweetwater Hospital---Mrs. Maggie Kennedy Wayman, 58, of Madisonville Route 3, died Sunday night at Sweetwater Hospital. Survivors include two sons, Clarence Jr. and Fred Lee Wayman, Madisonville; three daughters, Mrs. Roy Hitson and Mrs. Alfred English, Madisonville, and Mrs. Marcus Lykins, Xenia, Ohio; 14 grandchildren; three brothers, Joe Kennedy of Loudon, Ben of Vonore, and James of Brilliant, Ohio; two sisters, Mrs. J.E. Bright and Mrs. Kara Bright, both of Ohio. Funeral services and burial occurred Wednesday afternoon at Mt. Zion Baptist Church." ________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, March 9, 1961, Page 1: "Tellico Plains Man Claimed By Death---William Edward Wilson, 87, of Tellico Plains Route 2, died at 9:50 a.m. Tuesday at Mountain Home Veterans Hospital, Johnson City. Funeral services will occur at 2 p.m. Saturday at Druid Hill Baptist Church." _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, May 17, 1956, Page 1: "Monroe Man Loses Arm, Two Killed In Oak Ridge Explosion---George Richard Myers, 26, son of Mr. & Mrs. George Myers of Madisonville Route 1, has lost his right arm and remains in a critical condition at Oak Ridge Hospital as the result of a non-nuclear explosion which occurred in that city Monday. The injured man is also reported to have suffered severe burns and bruises to his back, along with possible kidney injuries. His wife is the former Miss Hattie Green, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Will Green of Madisonville Route 4. They have one daughter. Mr. Myers' arm was severed between the shoulder and elbow. Allen Lyons, 27, of Oak Ridge, and Wilbur Stooksbury, 26, of Andersonville, both died as a result of injuries received in the same accident. The three, employees of Union Carbide Nuclear Co., were moving scrap to clear a passageway for a truck through the salvage yard at 8:26 a.m. They were about 30 feet away when containers of zirconium oxide and zirconium scrap exploded. Cause of the explosion has not yet been determined." ___________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 1, 1950, Page 2: "Chestnut Valley---There was a large gathering at the funeral of Mrs. Thelma Carmney recently. Rev. Chester Millsaps officiated. Mrs. Carmney had 118 grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren." ____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, July 8, 1954, Page 1: "Mrs. Mollie A. Belcher, 81, died Saturday at her home in Madisonville. She was the widow of the late John H. Belcher, who died a few months ago. Mrs. Belcher is survived by six sons, Troy, Anderson and Harvey of Madisonville, Arthur of Maryville, Luther of Cleveland and James of Houston, Tex.; a daughter, Mrs. Fannie Presswood of Athens; 45 grandchildren and 69 great-grandchildren. Funeral services occurred Monday at South Madisonville Baptist Church, Rev. Chester Millsaps officiating. Burial was in McClellan Cemetery." ____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, April 8, 1954, Page 1: "J.H. Belcher Succumbs At Home Friday---John H. Belcher, 84, for many years a familiar figure in this section, died Friday morning at his home in Madisonville. Survivors include his wife; six sons, Harvey, Anderson and Troy of Madisonville, Luther of Cleveland, Arthur of Alcoa and James of Houston, Tex.; a daughter, Mrs. Fannie Presswood of Sweetwater Route 3; two brothers, Tom of Alcoa and Mack of Indiana; 45 grandchildren, 68 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held on Sunday afternoon at South Madisonville Baptist Church, of which he was a deacon. Revs. Robert Maxwell, C.C. Millsaps and W.G. Smiley officiated, with burial following in McClellan Cemetery." Page 6: "In Loving Memory Of John H. Belcher---John H. Belcher died at his home in Madisonville on April 2, 1954, being 84 years, nine months and 17 days old at the time of his death. He was married to Mollie Atkins, who survives him, on Oct. 18, 1890. To this union were born nine children. Six boys: Harvey, Anderson and Troy of Madisonville; James of Houston, Tex., Luther of Cleveland, and Arthur of Maryville. Three girls: Mrs. George Presswood of Sweetwater and two daughters deceased: Mrs. Nannie Arden and Bernice Ann Belcher. The couple also reared Mrs. Arden's 6-week-old son, Ralph. Other survivors include 45 grandchildren, 68 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Tom of Alcoa and Mack of Richmond, Ind., and a host of relatives and friends. He professed faith in Christ at a very early age and lived faithful until death. He was a deacon of South Madisonville Baptist Church. He did love his church work and to teach the little children in Sunday School. He was always ready to lend a helping hand in time of need. He was known and loved by a great many friends and will be missed in his home, church and community. Everything that loving hands could do was done for him, but God was ready for him. He is at rest where there is no more pain, nor sorrow. Funeral services were held at the South Madisonville Baptist Church, with Revs. C.C. Millsaps, Robert Maxwell and W.G. Smiley officiating. Pallbearers were his grandchildren, Marcus, Gordon, J.B., Joe, Leon Belcher and Vaughn Presswood. Honorary pallbearers were Guy Sharp, Luther Stephens, Boyd Miller, Theodore Plemmons, Sam Wilson, Charles Maxwell, Mack Miller and Clifford Plemmons. Flower girls were his grandchildren, Mrs. Lena Thomas, Mrs. Gena Watson, Mrs. Armell Dillard, Mrs. Willie Merle Lyle, Mrs. Thelma Lowe, Mrs. Cora Lee Rose, Mrs. Juanita Brock, Johnnie and Carolyn Belcher, Thelma and Dorotha Arden, Mrs. Nancy Belcher and Mrs. Barbara Presswood. Burial was in McClellan Cemetery, beneath a mound of beautiful flowers." ---Written by a daughter, Mrs. George Presswood. ________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 3, 1932, Page 2: "Tellico Plains---It was shocking to people when the news came that Charlie True had got killed by a train last Wednesday. He was buried Friday. Life is uncertain and death is sure. We don't know when God may call us away." Page 3: "Train Kills Charlie True---The badly mangled body of Charlie True, 55, was found on the L. & N. Railroad tracks near Fagin, three miles north of Madisonville, on last Thursday morning. It was thought at first that the body was that of T.R. Crowder of Niota; an envelope, having been found in the man's pocket on which was written that name and address. The envelope contained a woman's picture which is said to be that of True's wife who died some time ago. The body was found by Dick Alexander, of this place. An inquest was held by Coroner J.P. Taylor and the verdict of the jury was that the man met death by having been run over by a train. According to Dr. H.C. Shearer, who accompanied Taylor to Fagin, the man had been run over early in the night. The body was brought to the Biereley Funeral Home, where a nephew, Jim True, of Sweetwater, identified it. True formerly lived at Tellico Plains, but since the death of his wife some time ago he had visited among his brothers. Brothers who survive are Jim True of Loudon; Will True of Loudon and Dan True. A sister, Mrs. Jasper Crowder lives at Tellico Plains." _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 8, 1940, Page 1: "Hugh Keller---On April 26, 1940, the dark winged angel knocked at the door of the Hugh Keller home and claimed the soul of Mr. Keller, transferring it to that land where there is no parting; where all will be peace and love. Hugh was about 63 years of age and had lived a faithful Christian life until the Lord called him. He leaves a loving wife and eight children to mourn because of his going. Their loss is Heaven's gain. They miss him; he leaves a vacant chair which no one else can fill; a vacant place in the home and community which will be sadly noted by all who knew him. Hugh always met his friends with a smile and some kind word. He was a hard worker and "made his living by the sweat of his brow." He lived on Pond Creek at the time of his death; and was laid away in New Hope Cemetery, beneath a great number of flowers, to await the resurrection of the just. Before he left this world, he stated that everything was well with him and asked his children to follow on and someday meet him in Heaven. Biereley's was in charge of the burial." ---A Friend. _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 27, 1933, Page 1: "Madisonville Route Two---The remains of Mr. Spencer Martin, who passed away at his home near Ebenezer, after an illness with typhoid, were interred in the Chestua Methodist Cemetery. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. John Harris and was largely attended. He leaves a family and several brothers and sister to mourn his loss, which we sincerely hope is his gain." ---Nellie C. Stakely. ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 3, 1949, Page 7: "Ebenezer---We were made sad indeed by the death of Mr. Spencer Martin, who died at his home near Wilson Station on July 25. He had many friends in this community and will be sadly missed in his home community. We extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved ones." _______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, April 4, 1951, Page 2: "Funeral Services Held For Mrs. Joe Farmer Sunday---Funeral services for Mrs. Joe Farmer, 34, were held Sunday at 10 a.m. in Unicoi Baptist Church, with the Rev. Virgil Tallent officiating. Mrs. Farmer passed away on Thursday afternoon at a Knoxville hospital after a lingering illness. She is survived by her husband and three children. Interment was in the church cemetery." ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, March 10, 1960, Page 1: "Route 2 Resident Claimed By Death---Argyle Lee, born Aug. 7, 1898, passed away at his home on Madisonville Route 2, Thursday, March 3. He was a farmer. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Lillie Harris Lee; six daughters, Mrs. Ulis Bookout and Mrs. Willis Freeman of Englewood Route 1, Mrs. Ralph Hardy of Chattanooga, Mrs. Wesley Fairman of Athens, Mrs. S.W. Watson and Mrs. Kenneth Lunsford of Madisonville; two sons, Arch Lee of Madisonville and Arlie Lee of Athens; 16 grandchildren and four sisters. Funeral services were conducted from Hickory Grove Church at 2 p.m. Monday by Rev. Will Crye and Rev. Will Marrow. Burial was in the church cemetery." _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, January 31, 1963, Page 6: The writer was sorry to learn of the death of Mr. Fred Richards of Tellico Plains." ________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 16, 1930, Page 3: C.A. Scott---Mr. Charles A. Scott, who died last week at his home at Tellico Plains, had been a leading figure in the industrial and farming activities of Monroe County for more than a third of a century. He came to Monroe County about forty years ago and went into the timber and lumber business on a small scale. He was successful from the start, and soon his business grew until his operations covered an immense territory, and the Scott mills were to be found wherever there was timber to justify a mill site. He knew how to handle men to get the best service from them. He was liberal with his employees and they were faithful to his interests. He, in addition to his timber and lumber interests, was interested in a large mercantile establishment at Tellico Plains, and bought up and operated large and valuable farms adjoining the town. As a farmer, he was progressive, using the most modern methods and machinery. Among the lands acquired by him, was the McDermott place, on which he erected a large brick house at great cost. This house stands on am eminence overlooking the plains. For several years Mr. Scott had been in failing health, and for some time before his death had been confined to his home in blindness. He married several years ago, Miss Mamie Lee, a daughter of W.W. Lee of Tellico Plains, who survives him. His funeral was largely attended." __________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 5, 1927, Page 2: "Rafter News---Mr. Jess Duckett, a well known citizen of this place, passed away on Wednesday. He has been blind for several years. His remains were laid to rest in the Mt. Isabel Cemetery." ________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 26, 1929, Page 2: "Tellico Plains Route Three---Miss Missouri Kirkland, who has been suffering for some time with dropsy, died Friday morning and her remains were laid to rest in the Roberts Cemetery." _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 27, 1934, Page 1: "Interesting News From Route Six---Sunday evening, June 24, 1934: Rev. and Mrs. John T. Stakely and three children visited today in the home of Mr. & Mrs. Howard Stakely. As they were passing this afternoon, going home, they called a few moments with me and they told me that Mrs. Sallie Gibson Watson, who has been sick for a long while, is dead. I have known Mrs. Watson all my life and there is no one in this world for whom I fee more friendship and regard than for her. She was certainly a fine, good woman." ---Georgia A. Stakely. _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 25, 1934, Page 4: "Mrs. W.L. Watson---The dark angel of death visited in the home of Mr. W.L. Watson and claimed as its victim, his beloved wife, Mrs. Sarah Watson. Mrs. Sarah Gibson Watson was born May 9, 1853, and died June 23, 1934, being 81 years old. She professed faith in Christ at an early age and united with the Notchey Creek Baptist Church and lived a consecrated Christian life. She was married to Mr. W.L. Watson Aug. 25, 1878, and to this union eight children were born, Mrs. Callie Raper, Mrs. Jodie Barnett, Mrs. Delzie Jones, Mr. Bob, Will, Oscar, John and Alton Watson. She leaves to mourn her loss a husband, seven children and a host of relatives and friends. Funeral services were held in the home by Rev. George Watson, after which her body was laid to rest in the Mt. Arnon Cemetery. The pallbearers were Henry Torbett, Frank Henry, Alvin Johnson, Fender Watson, Pryor Raper, Enos Watson. The flower girls were Cota Emma Lee, Mary Lou Thomas, Della McHannie. There is a place vacant in our home that can never be filled. It seems awful hard to give her up, but God knows best and we will try to meet her when we are called to go. Therefore, realizing that God in His wisdom, doeth all things well, we miss her, yes we miss her, but hope whispers in our ears, we will meet her again in a better land than this." She is gone but not forgotten, In this world here below. She has gone to live with Jesus, In a better land I know. Written by a Granddaughter. _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, (Monroe Co. TN) Wednesday, March 30, 1927: "Obituary---On March 15, 1927, the death angel came to the home of Mr. and Mrs. J.M. Kenendy and took their darling little boy, Aquilla. He was sick only a short while; was taken to the hospital and all was done for him that loving hands could do, but the good Lord had a better home for him than he had here on earth. He was 2 years and 4 months old. He leaves to mourn his death a father and mother, 5 brothers and two sisters and a number of relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. W.M. Curtis and his body laid to rest in Mt. Zion Cemetery. Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. He hath called for many a loved one; we have seen them leave our side with out Savior. We shall meet them when we, too, have crossed the tide. May the bereaved friends leave their loss in the Lord's hands, for He doeth all things well." One Who Loved Him. ____________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, December 12, 1945, Page 2: "Rafter---We are sorry to learn of the death of Mr. John Smith of North Carolina." ---Elizabeth Shaw. __________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, August 6, 1953, Page 8: "J.R. Cowden, 75, died Sunday at his home on Greenback Route 2. He was a retired farmer. Survivors include his wife and several children, including Mrs. Louis Webster and Mrs. Ted Webb of Madisonville. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning in Biereley's Chapel. Burial was in Prospect Cemetery." _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, April 1, 1954, Page 1: "W.D. Blevins, 82, died Saturday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ernest Stinnett, 411 Highway. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Nora Palmer Blevins; four sons, Wilder, George, Elige and Lonnie; seven daughters, Mrs. Dave Blair, Mrs. C.H. McKeehan, Mrs. Arthur Blair, Mrs. Fred McKeehan, Mrs. Fred Roderick, Mrs. William Bledsoe and Mrs. Stinnett; and a step-daughter, Mrs. Claude Whitehead. Funeral services occurred Wednesday at Christy Hill, Blount County, followed by burial in Mt. View Cemetery." ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 23, 1934, Page 3: "Mrs. Maggie Roberts, 44 years of age, died at her home near here on May 18. Burial was made in the Ebenezer Cemetery, Sunday. Biereley Funeral Home in charge. Services were conducted by Revs. Wolfe and Ransome." Page 2: "Englewood Route One, May 21, 1934---Mrs. Maggie Roberts was born Dec. 18, 1888; died May 18, 1934. She professed religion two weeks ago, and prayed every minute in the day. She has been sick for nine months. Her disease seemed to be incurable. She suffered from leakage of the heart, pellagra and dropsy. May friends visited her during her months of sickness. To know her was to love her. She was a loving daughter, wife and mother. Her dying words were, "I am going to walk the golden streets with Jesus. I see my Savior, He has come after me, I am going back to Heaven with Him. Come on children, come on, come on." She called all of her children to her dying bedside and asked them to meet her in Heaven. Mother will be greatly missed in the home. Her chair is vacant. Mother is no longer here, but she is resting in Heaven with her loved ones gone on before, where there will be no more parting, no more sorrow, no more heartaches, no more pain. There is no one who can fill mother's place. We miss her bright, smiling face, her tender love and care. It is hard to give mother up, but our loss is Heaven's gain. God does all things well. She leaves to mourn her departure a mother, Mrs. Polly Anne Casey, a husband, Mr. George Roberts, and seven children, Morris Roberts, Abe Roberts, Jim Roberts, E.R. Roberts of Englewood; Mrs. Geneva Black of Englewood; Miss Della Roberts at home. Flower girls were, Misses Alice and Birdie Moses, Bate Mitchell, Etta Roberts, Lucile Black, Kathleen Sitzlar, Polly Lankford and Rossie Casey. Pallbearers, Jess Roberts, Dock Lovingood, Clarence Taylor, Joe Thomas, Carl Torbett, Arch Stewart. Mrs. Maggie Roberts' funeral was preached from Ebenezer M.E. Church Sunday morning, Rev. Hoyt Shadden being in charge of the funeral. Her remains were laid to rest in the cemetery nearby, Charles Bierely being in charge. ---A Friend. "Card of Thanks---We wish to thank our many friends for their kindness and sympathy shown us during the sickness and death of our loving daughter, wife and mother, also for the beautiful flowers. Especially to Mr. Charles Biereley for his kind services, also Dr. W.W. Leonard, Dr. J.J. Harrison and Dr. Rogers." ---Della Roberts, George Roberts, E.R. Roberts, Mrs. E.R. Black, Mrs. George Mitchell, Mrs. Abe Roberts, Morris Roberts, Jim Roberts. _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 1, 1949, Page 6: "Ironsburg---Mrs. C.T. (Aunt Jane) Hawke died in Sweetwater Hospital last week and was buried in Ironsburg Cemetery on Monday. Dr. Shelton, Sweetwater District Superintendent, officiated. A large crowd attended the funeral service." _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 10, 1951, Page 8: "Frank (Bonnie) Giles died at his home on Ballplay on Friday, Jan. 5. Mr. Giles was 76 years of age and was a well known retired farmer. Surviving are four sons, Frank, Marvin and Charles of Maryville and J.R. Giles of Tellico Plains Route 3; four daughters, Mrs. Lucy Stapp and Mrs. Helen Mason of Madisonville, Mrs. Nona Hampton of Vonore and Mrs. Rosa Taylor of Roanoke, Va.; two granddaughters, Helena and Glenda Jo Mason of Madisonville; a grandson, Frank Darrell Giles of Maryville; three sisters, Mrs. Nellie McCollum of Vonore, Mrs. Prudie Brady of Dallas, Texas, and Mrs. Lucy McNutt of Tellico Plains; a brother, S.C. (Tonie) Giles of Ballplay. His wife, Mrs. Lillie Berrong Giles, preceded him in death two years ago. Funeral services were held at Ballplay Baptist Church on Sunday afternoon; burial was in the Giles Family Cemetery, the Revs. John T. Stakely and E.J. Ingle officiating." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, April 6, 1916, Page 3: "Town And County News---Esq. G.W. Kimbrough, while here on Monday, told us of one who he believes to be the oldest man in Monroe County. This man is Mr. Adam Kilby, who will be an even century or 100 years old on August 3, 1916. Mr. Kimbrough said that in reply to a query as to how he felt Mr. Kilby replied: "I feel like a buck." His hair is not white and in other ways he does not show his extreme age. He resides with his son, R.P. Kilby, who owns the T.J. Curtis place at Rural Vale. Mr. Kilby is a native of North Carolina." ___________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, December 13, 1962, Page 1: "Mrs. Andrew M. (Eliza Rhea) Hunt, 93, of Tellico Plains, passed away at 12:45 a.m. Saturday in the Woods Presbyterian Nursing Home, Sweetwater. She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Willie Thomas of Madisonville, Mrs. Frank Dye and Mrs. Luther Atkins of Tellico Plains; five sons, Ray Hunt of Madisonville, Pryor of Tellico Plains, Gathay of Kennedy, Texas, Orlin of California and A.H. of Rockford, Illinois; 46 grandchildren and a host of great and great-great grandchildren. Funeral services occurred at 2 p.m. Sunday at New Providence Baptist Church, with Revs. R.L. Davis and Horace Atkins officiating. Interment was in the church cemetery." _______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 9, 1937, Page 2: "Vonore---Friends and relatives of Rev. Jesse Johnson regret to learn of his death, which occurred in Florida, Sunday." Page 3: "Those who came to the funeral of the Rev. Jesse Johnson were his widow, Mrs. Jesse Johnson; daughter and husband, Mr. & Mrs. A.A. Smith of Knoxville; Miss Sue Johnson of Gainesville, Ga., and Rev. Johnson’s son, Mr. Winston Johnson of Winchester, Tenn.; Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence McGhee and Miss Verna McGhee of Dayton, Ohio." Page 3: "Local Items Of Interest---The many friends of Rev. Jesse Johnson, who formerly lived here, died at his home Sunday morning. The body arrived Tuesday and was taken to the home of Rev. Johnson's brother-in-law, Judge C.A. Kennedy." _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 23, 1937, Page 3: "Obituary---The funeral of Rev. Jesse E. Johnson was conducted at the First Baptist Church, Madisonville, Wednesday, June 9, 1937, Rev. A.F. Mahan of First Baptist Church of Fountain City preaching the funeral, assisted by Rev. Creed McCoy, pastor of First Baptist Church here. Music was rendered by the Madisonville Male Quartet after the funeral. The body was conveyed to the Buttram burying ground in McMinn County, where the Ocoee Free and Accepted Masons took charge and rendered a very touching ceremony, led by Bro. Woody. The body was laid to rest beneath a mound of flowers. Many of Brother Johnson's friends of Polk and McMinn Counties were waiting at the burying ground to take a last look at the body of their friend and brother. Rev. Jesse E. Johnson was born in Murphy, N.C., August 24, 1863. He married Miss Nancy Alice Allen and to this union were born four children, three of whom survive, viz: W.E. Johnson of Winchester, Tenn.; Mrs. A.A. Smith of Knoxville, and Miss Sue Johnson of Gainesville, Ga. Rev. Johnson was married a second time to Mrs. Mary Bell McGhee of Vonore. No children were born to this union, but two step-children, Miss Verna McGhee of Dayton, Ohio, and Lawrence McGhee of Winchester, Tenn., survive him. Rev. Johnson was ordained to the Gospel ministry by the Macedonia Baptist Church, Dec. 25, 1898; he was a pastor of Tellico Plains Baptist Church for 14 years and has served as pastor of several Baptist churches in Monroe, McMinn and Polk Counties. His last pastorate in Tennessee was at Benton Station in Polk County. Because of failing health, Rev. Johnson went to Vero Beach, Fla., Sept. 15, 1930, where he remained until his death. He will be missed by his many friends in Tennessee and Florida." ____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 30, 1937, Page 2: "Madisonville Route Two---The last two Sabbaths during church service where we attended the song, "Higher Ground," has been sung. Our mind reverts back to the first time we ever heard this song when the late Rev. Jesse Johnson was pastor of the Chestua Baptist Church. Possessing a very good voice for singing he taught the people to sing this very appropriate selection. He was pastor there about 1912-1913." --Nellie C. Stakely. _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, April 7, 1960, Page 1: "Ironsburg Resident Claimed By Death---Charlie T. Hawk, 86, of Ironsburg, died at 4:45 p.m. Friday at Lowry-Henshaw Hospital, Sweetwater. He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Aaron Brannon of Ironsburg and Mrs. R.L. Tate of Sweetwater; four sons, R.M. and Ross Hawk of Tellico Plains, Frank of Ironsburg and Willard of Ontario, Calif.; 25 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren; a sister, Mrs. R.L. Lovingood of Fountain City; two brothers, Sullivan Hawk of Tellico Plains and Bob Hawk of Chattanooga. Funeral services occurred at 2 p.m. Monday at Ironsburg Methodist Church, with Rev. Jack Martin officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery." ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 20, 1925, Page 2: "Died---Mr. Robert Petty died May 1. He was 62 years old and was married to Miss Mary Miller. To this union were born six children, three boys and three girls, one child died in infancy. He leaves two brothers and two sisters. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. J.M. Wright and Davy Hensley. He made a profession of religion at Broomley's tent meeting. He always tried to keep the golden rule, "Do unto others as he would have others do unto him." I never heard him say a harm word of anyone. He always had a kind word and a bright smile for all. They sang his favorite song, "How Sweet Heaven Must Be." His death was a great shock to the community, for he was loved by all. A voice is hushed that never can be heard. A seat is vacant that never can be filled. The angel boatman has gently moved him over the broad river of life, for death is only a dream. Whosoever liveth and believeth on Me shall never perish, for I am the way, the truth and the life. We are waiting by the river, We are watching on the shore, Only waiting for our loved ones To come and row us over. My Heavenly home is bright and fair No pain or death can enter there, Its glittering towers the sun outshine That Heavenly mansion shall be mine. The bereaved friends have our heartfelt sympathy for God's will be done, not ours." ---William H. Burton. ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 11, 1948, Page 1: "Bodies Of 2 Vets From This Section Returned---The body of Pvt. William W. Cooper of Vonore is being returned to Mr. John B. Cooper and that of Pvt. Dexter Carl Arden of Niota is being returned to Mr. Rollin R. Arden, along with 2,792 others aboard the Cardinal O'Connell, scheduled to dock at San Francisco, Calif., soon. Ten days to three weeks is expected to elapse, after the ship docks, before the bodies arrive home for burial." _____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, March 7, 1963, Page 1: "Aged Vonore Woman Passes At Hospital---Mrs. L.B. King, 78, of Vonore Route 2, died at 12:30 a.m. Saturday at Sweetwater Hospital. In addition to her husband, she is survived by five daughters, Mrs. Willie Yates of Loudon, Mrs. Rastus Bivens, Mrs. Luther Carmley and Mrs. Dan Blair all of Vonore, and Mrs. H.T. Bivens of Alcoa; two sons, Virgil and Melvin of Vonore; 41 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren; a sister, Martha Haynes of Madisonville; four brothers, Lark and William Bryant of Madisonville, George and Sam Bryant of Vonore. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday of last week at the Farr's Chapel Friends Church, with Revs. Carl Darnell and Raymond Stokes officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery." _________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, April 9, 1947, Page 1: "Mount Vernon---Uncle Tom Rayburn, well known over the county, was buried at Hickory Grove on Sunday afternoon. Funeral services were conducted by Revs. Johnnie Jenkins of Madisonville Route 4 and Rev. Will Marrow of Englewood Route 1. Uncle Tom, as he was known, was a good Christian man and will be missed by all who knew him." _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 20, 1943, Page 2: "In Loving Memory of Dillon Carmley "In My Father's House are Many Rooms." ---John 14:2 No, not cold beneath the grasses, Not close-walled within a tomb; Rather in my Father's Mansion, Living in another room. Little Dillon, living like the one who loves me; Like the child with cheeks abloom Out of sight, at desk or school books Busy in another room. Little Dillon, the dear little boy, Nearer than the youth whom fortune beckons Where the strange lands loom; Just behind the hanging curtain Serving in another room. Dillon, we miss you in Sunday School Shall we doubt our Father's mercy, Shall we think of death as doom? Or the stepping into Heaven To a bigger, brighter room. Shall we blame our Father's wisdom? Shall we sit enswathed in gloom? When we know our love is happy, Waiting in another room. Mrs. Pollie T. Bivens. ____________________________________________________________ Our County Citizen, March 1, 1901, Page 2: "Mt. Vernon---Jesse Tinker, who has been an invalid for several years, died recently and was buried in the Notchey Creek Cemetery." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, September 21, 1961, Page 4: "Tellico Plains Man Succumbs Saturday---James Jackson Bivens, age 80, of Tellico Plains, died at 8:30 p.m. Saturday. Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Barney Williams of Englewood Route 1 and Mrs. Charles Thompson of Dayton, Ohio; two sons, Virgil and Reed Bivens, both of Tellico Plains; 16 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; three sisters, Mrs. George Kirkland of Madisonville, Mrs. Callie Kitchens and Mrs. Dicy Williams of North Carolina. Funeral services and burial occurred at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Oak Grove Friends Church, followed by burial in the church cemetery." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 16, 1936, Page 3: "Mrs. J.M. Sneed, 62, died at her home near here Tuesday afternoon after an illness of more than eight months. Surviving are her husband, J.M. Sneed, who is a prominent merchant on the Niles Ferry Road. The following step-sons and a step-daughter: Walter Sneed, Frank Sneed, Frady Sneed and Mrs. Ethel Bruce, all of near Madisonville, Charles Sneed of Colorado and Elbert Sneed of the U.S. Navy, Norfolk, Va., who was home on furlough. Also two sisters, Mrs. Nora Boren of Pasadena, California and Mrs. Hattie Parks of near Madisonville. Mrs. Sneed had been a faithful member of her church, having joined the Hopewell Baptist Church when married to Mr. Sneed. She was much loved by all the neighbors in her community and by all who came in contact with her. Funeral services will be in the Hopewell Baptist Church." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 25, 1942, Page 1: "Madisonville Route 2---Funeral for Mrs. Ben Sneed of Madisonville Route 1 was held at the Chestua Methodist Church on Sunday. Burial in the church cemetery." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, May 15, 1958, Page 1: Pioneer Woman Dies In Athens---Mrs. Nannie Johnson Simpson, 84, member of a pioneer family native to Monroe and McMinn Counties, died Wednesday morning at Epperson Hospital, Athens. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at Englewood First Baptist Church, followed by burial in Sunrise Cemetery." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 20, 1946, Page 4: "Mrs. Minnie S. Loveday Dies In Knox Hospital---Mrs. Minnie Starrett Loveday died at Kingston Pike Hospital, Knoxville, on Monday at 2 p.m. Mrs. Loveday was 49 years old. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Coy Arnwine and Miss Tom Loveday of Vonore; four sisters, Mrs. Ethel Isbell of Maryville; Mrs. Lucy Rollins, Mrs. Margaret Kerr and Mrs. Omega Milligan of Richmond, Indiana; four brothers, Frank and Lewis Starrett of Corbin, Kentucky; Elmer of Vonore and Hoyt of Richmond, Indiana. Funeral services are being held on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at Vonore Methodist Church, the Rev. Dodd of Maryville and Rev. Henry Horton of Vonore officiating. Burial in the church cemetery." _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 3, 1939, Page 1: "The End Of A Long Journey---On April 25 at 1:00 o'clock a.m., God looked down on Grandfather George Harris and said "It's enough. Come unto thy reward." Grandfather had been unable to move because of a broken hip for almost 3 months. God was very good to him for he lived to a very ripe old age of 96 years. I wonder how many of us expect to live that long. Grandfather professed faith in Christ when he was 68 years old and lived a very devoted Christian life. He was peculiar, for God's people are peculiar people. He devoted much of his time to prayer. I can think of no better epitaph to put on his monument than "He has fought a good fight; he has run the race with patience." Grandfather is gone but not forgotten. We hope to live the life he has set before us so that we can meet him where there will be no separation. He left a host of relatives and friends to mourn his departure. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Margaret Harris, and eight children: Mrs. Ed. Wilson, Mrs. Jim Hamilton, Mrs. McKinley Standridge, Mrs. Frances BeBee, Mr. Johnnie Harris all of Tellico Plains; Mr. Henry Harris of Mt. Vernon; Mrs. Willie Robinson of Long Island, Ala.; Mrs. Fred Coppenger of Knoxville; also forty-eight grandchildren and thirty-two great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. W.N. Cagle and he was laid to rest in the Piney Grove Cemetery, amid a great mound of flowers." ---A granddaughter, Mrs. Stuart Pearson. __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 12, 1939, Page 4: "In Memory Of George Washington Harris---The death angel entered into our community Tuesday morning, Apr. 25, at one o'clock, to claim for its victim, Uncle George Harris as he was familiarly known. He received a fall in February after which he was unable to walk. He was 93 years of age and was a model Christian man and will be missed greatly in his community. Often have his neighbors heard him shouting in the field when he was able to work and then around his home after he became unable to work, he would be heard shouting the praises of God. He often said he was ready to go and that he wanted to go on home. He leaves his wife, "Aunt Margaret," as she is known, and eight children: Mr. Henry Harris of Mt. Vernon; Mr. Johnnie Harris of Tellico Plains; Mrs. Sarah Hamilton of Tellico Plains; Mrs. Frances Bibee of Tellico Plains, Mrs. Ella Robinson of Long Island, Ala.; Mrs. Cordie Wilson of Tellico Plains; Mrs. Stella Coppenger of Knoxville and Mrs. Elsie Standridge of Tellico Plains; 48 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren. Weep not, dear children, father has gone to his happy home we have so often heard him speak of. He is waiting your coming and we have heard all of you say that you were ready to go." ---Written by a friend. _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 15, 1933, Page 2: "Mr. Joseph A. Haun was born on June 27th, 1857, being the oldest son of Abraham and Ellen Forshee Haun. He passed away at his home at Englewood, Tenn., March 7th, 1933. Mr. Haun is survived by his wife, one daughter and two sons. He also leaves a sister and two brothers. Funeral services were held on his fiftieth wedding anniversary at the Englewood M.E. Church, Wednesday at 2 o'clock p.m., by his pastor, the Rev. Trentham and Rev. Hurst. His remains were laid to rest in the Old Englewood Cemetery." _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, May 31, 1951, Page 6: Earl L. Roberts, 58, Monroe County farmer of the Tellico area, died May 17. Funeral services were held May 19 at Shady Grove Church. Burial was in the church cemetery." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, June 7, 1951, Page 10: "Correction---It was Gladys Roberts, daughter of Earl Roberts, instead of Margaret in last week's obituary column." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, June 17, 1954, Page 10: "Winston Lynn, 57, of Tellico Plains Star Route, died Tuesday at Blount Memorial Hospital, Maryville. His wife and several relatives survive. Funeral services and burial occurred Wednesday afternoon at Black Ankle Church." ____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, November 17, 1960, Page 1: "Mrs. Almeda Pressley Best, age 91, died at Swetwater Hospital at 6 a.m. Thursday. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Blake Baker of Madisonville, Mrs. Ruby Williams of Tellico; four sons, Fred of Madisonville, Earl of Tellico, Dan and Chester of Vonore Rt. 2; 25 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren; 1 great- great-grandson. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday at Oak Grove Friends Church, with Rev. Howard Yates officiating. Burial in church cemetery." _________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 22, 1950: In Loving Memory of Mrs. Martha Ann Bivens who died March 8. Mars. Martha Ann Bivens was born May 14, 1870, and died March 8, 1950, being at the time of her death 79 years, nine months and 23 days of age. She was married to the late Andrew J. Bivens in November of 1891. She joined the Ebenezer Baptist Church, Ballplay at an early age and later moved her membership to Antioch Baptist Church, where she remained a faithful member until death. Surviving are six children: Henry C., Joseph, Mrs. Melvin King, Mrs. Dillon Williams and Miss Emma Bivens, all of Vonore Route 2 and Mrs. Oliver Williams of Loudon Route 4. Also 24 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held in the home of Rev. Enos Hunt and in the church by Rev. Mayo Wilson, Rev. Edd Rickman and Rev. Frank Bivens. Burial was in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Ralph Lane, Audie Williams, Lewis A Bivens, Clifford Williams, Buddy Smalling and Jasper Smalling. Akins' Quartet sang. Flower girls were Mildred Lane, Elizabeth Bivens, Pruda Williams, Ann Lou Bivens, Lucy Belle Standridge and Anna Pearl Julian. ________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 23, 1938: Mr. Marion Brannon died at his home in Ironsburg, Feb. 3. He was buried there the following Saturday after funeral services conducted by the Rev. J. Babb of Lenoir City. Mr Brannon was 72 years of age and was the father of 16 children, 13 of whom survive him to the grave. All the living children were present at his funeral. The children who survive are: George and Atley Brannon, Ironsburg; Dave, Fort Bragg, NC; Dink, of Ironsburg; Mrs. R.M. Curtis, Athens; Mrs. P.L. Burgess, Harlan, Ky.; Mrs. J.W. Jump, Path Fork, Ky; Mrs. Earl Smith, Ironsburg; Mrs. Ed Wilson, Carlock; Mrs. Geo. Stewart, Coalgood, Ky.; Mrs. A.M. Leming, Rickman, Tn., and Lovrine Brannon, Ironsburg. He is survived by 37 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. __________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Friday, December 13, 1895: Mt. Vernon--On last Saturday night the Angel of Death visited our neighborhood and claimed as its victim, Mrs. Brannon, the aged mother-in-law of Mr. Andy Harris. She had been ill for quite awhile, so death was not an unexpected visitor. The bereaved relatives have our sympathies. ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 22, 1950: Alfred Smith, life-long resident of this community died in his son's home in Cleveland last week. He was 82 years of age. His body was laid to rest in Ironsburg Cemetery. Mr. Smith leaves three children: Mssrs. Bass and Ben Smith of Cleveland and Mrs. Will Watson of Englewood. ________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 22, 1950: Mrs. Thomas Dockery died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Dillard Marrow, last week. She was 90 years old. _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 7, 1951: Ironsburg--Mrs. F.M. (Aunt Artie) Brannon died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Earl Smith, on March 1 at the age of 79 and was buried in the Ironsburg Cemetery March 3. _______________________________________________________________