Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, October 19, 1938, Page 1: “Madisonville Route 2---Mr. Ruel Cardin, aged 24 years, passed away at Sweetwater Hospital on Friday night following a little more than a week’s illness. He was a kind, accommodating neighbor and will be missed by a large circle of friends. He is survived by his wife and three small children; his father, mother and four sisters. The funeral, which was held in the Chestua Methodist Church, Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock, was largely attended.” ---Nellie C. Stakely. Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, October 11, 1939, Page 2: “In Loving Memory---In memory of our loved one, who passed away one year ago this week. Ruel Nathaniel Cardin was born March 10, 1914; died Oct. 13, 1938, being 24 years, seven months and three days of age at the time of his death. Ruel was stricken with appendicitis on Wednesday and taken to Sweetwater Hospital, where he died on Thursday a week later. He was not sick very long, but bore it patiently and with a smile. Ruel was married to Miss Esther Smith on Jan. 9, 1932, and to this union were born three boys; Bruce, Wayne and Paul, and one girl, Ruby Ruella. He left to mourn his departure this good wife and these four, small children, a father and mother, Mr. & Mrs. D.W. Cardin; four sisters, Miss Jessie Cardin, Mrs. Jimmie Layman and Mrs. Ross Watson, all of Madisonville, and Mrs. Earl Long of Maryville; a cousin, Glenna Bell Cardin. One brother died infancy. Ruel was a kind-hearted, young man. He worked hard to make a good living for his family. He was a kind husband and a loving father. “To know him was to love him,” for he always met his friends with a smile. As Ruel was taken sick, he asked a friend if he thought he could be saved. His friend told him he could and told him of Jesus and the thief on the cross, and as the end was nearing he would speak of going home. He said, “Come on, Esther and mother, and let’s go home and tell daddy to come and go too.” Oh, what a wonderful thought---to go to a home eternal. Ruel, we are thinking of how you left us one year ago this week. We are thinking of the last and sweetest homecoming in our Father’s house of many mansions, where He will meet us with outstretched hands. Our hearts are still sad and lonely for our loved one who sleeps in the cemetery at Chestua Methodist Church; our homes are sad---but we think of a brighter home than ours, for we hope that Heaven is now his home.” ---A Cousin, Mrs. Ike Raper. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 25, 1941, Page 7: “Funeral services for Mr. Arch LaFayette Axley were held at New Hope Church on Monday morning, the Rev. C.C. Seagle officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Mr. Axley was 72 years of age. He is survived by four sons and several daughters.” _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, July 25, 1957, Page 1: “James Eddington Passes At Home---James L. Eddington, 76, farmer of the Tellico Plains section, died Saturday at his home. Survivors include his wife; two sons, William E. Eddington of Ohio and Henry Eddington of Etowah; three daughters, Miss Jamie Lou Eddington of Tellico Plains, Mrs. Mary DeRudder and Mrs. Myrtle Graves of Chattanooga. Funeral services and burial occurred Monday morning at Unicoi Baptist Church.” ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 20, 1930, Page 2: “Luther Burgess Killed---Luther Burgess, 55, was killed Tuesday near the mouth of North River, in the Cherokee National Forest, following a quarrel with Berry Davis and his son, Walter. It is said that Walter Davis did the shooting and officers are now looking for him.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 27, 1930, Page 1: “Scattering News---Relatives and friends are grieved over the death of Mr. S.L. Burgess. Mrs. S.L. Burgess is making her home for the present with her sister, Mrs. A.L. Lee, at Tellico Plains. Mr. & Mrs. Frank Ryan were dinner guests in the home of A.L. Lee, Sunday. Mrs. S.L. Burgess went with them to their home in Knoxville for a short visit. There were several of Mr. & Mrs. S.L. Burgess’ relatives in Etowah and Chattanooga in attendance at his funeral, conducted by Rev. Horace Atkins and Rev. Burt Rose, after which his body was laid to rest in the Tellico Plains Cemetery.” Page 3: “Berry Davis And Son Bound To Court---Berry Davis, 58, and Walter Davis, his 18-year-old son, were bound to court by Justice of the Peace G.W. Kimbrough, Thursday afternoon of last week, charged with the murder of Luther Burgess, the former’s bond being fixed at $1,000 and the son’s bond at $2,000. John Starkey testified that he and Burgess had been up on North River in the Cherokee National Forest to look after some cattle, and as they returned they met the Davis’ and Davis accused Burgess of letting his dogs run his hogs. Starkey said that Burgess told Davis that he did not want any trouble about the matter. But as the argument waxed warmer, Burgess finally said, “If nothing will satisfy you but trouble, I reckon’ we will just have to have it,” at the same time pointing at the elder Davis with his walking stick. The young man had taken no part in the quarrel up to this time, but when Burgess made the above statement he raised his shotgun and fired, killing Burgess. Burgess was not armed, Starkey said, but both the Davis’ had guns.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 13, 1931, Page 3: “Four Years In The Pen---Berry Davis and his son, Walter Davis, charged with the murder of Luther Burgess, were on trial in Circuit Court here this week and the jury brought in a verdict Wednesday morning, sentencing Walter Davis to four years in the penitentiary. Not guilty as to his father, Berry Davis. Davis’ plea was self defense. Davis was represented by General T.W. Peace, with General R. Beecher Witt prosecuting.” _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, May 17, 1956, Page 1: “Earline Watson Buried Tuesday At Notchey Creek---Earline Watson, 47, died Saturday night at his home in the Notchey Creek community He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Nell Mullins Watson; two sons, Glenn of Chicago, Illinois and Jerry of Madisonville, Route 1; two daughters, Mrs. Joyce McMillan of New Hampshire and Shirley Ann, at home; his father, Jack R. Watson; five brothers, Paul, Joe, Pryor Lee and R.C. Watson, all of Madisonville, and Lawrence of Maryville; a half-brother, Joel Watson of Tellico Plains; three sisters, Mrs. J.W. Humma, Mrs. G.C. Turpin and Mrs. Raymond Watson, all of Madisonville Funeral services and burial occurred Tuesday afternoon at Notchey Creek Baptist Church.” _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat,, Thursday, March 28, 1957, Page 1: “Ex-Notchey Creek Merchant Passes---Jack R. Watson, 79, farmer and former merchant of the Notchey Creek section, died Tuesday afternoon at his home. He is survived by six sons, Paul C., Joe S., Pryor L. and John R. Watson, all of Madisonville, Route 1, Lawrence H. of Maryville and Joel Watson of Tellico Plains; three daughters, Mrs. J.W. Newman, Mrs. G.C. Turpin and Mrs. Raymond Watson, all of near Madisonville; 40 grandchildren and 25 great -grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at Notchey Creek Baptist Church, Revs. James Patton and Conward Cline officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.” Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, April 4, 1957, Page 8: “In Memoriam---J.R. Watson, born June 2, 1887, departed this life March 26, 1957, leaving to mourn his loss nine children, 40 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. Oh Daddy, how we miss you---you were so good to us. But we know our loss is Heaven’s gain. We know there is another jewel in Heaven and someday we will be united again. How sweet Heaven will be when we all cross to the other side to be with you and mother and sisters and brothers who have gone on before us.” ---Mrs. J.W. Newman, Mrs. G.C. Turpin, Mrs. Raymond Watson, Paul, Joe, Pryor, Lawrence, John and Joel Watson. ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 21, 1946, Page 1: Alfred Jenkins, one dear to us, departed this life on August 16, 1946, at 4:20 p.m. He was 60 years of age. How we miss him! But we are glad that we can go to Heaven and meet him there and spend all eternity with him. He enjoyed the blessings and peace of a Christian life, leaving the fruits of righteous in much patience during the last weeks of his illness, so that all who visited him could see what God can do for those who are in trouble. His last testimony was that he was ready to go. He wanted all to be able, as he was, to meet the Lord in peace. He is survived by his wife and five children; Lloyd of Loudon; Ishmael of Vonore; Kenneth, Dillon and Nellie Faye Jenkins of Dayton, Ohio. Funeral services were held on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at South Madisonville Baptist Church. Burial was in Sunset Cemetery.” ---Mrs. Martha Jenkins & Children. ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, May 22, 1968, Page 8A: “Mrs. Miller, 91, Died Sunday In Etowah Hospital---Mrs. Frances Berry Miller, 91, Sweetwater, died Sunday in Woods Memorial Hospital in Etowah. Survivors include five daughters, Mrs. Nancy Miser, Mrs. Cora Fugate, Mrs. Ed Randolph, all of Sweetwater, Mrs. Mildred Steele of Madisonville, Mrs. Ed Hodge of Loudon; two sons, Aaron Miller of Athens, John Millsaps of Sweetwater; one step-son, Wesley Miller of Crossville. Funeral services were held Tuesday at North Sweetwater Baptist Church with the Rev. James Atkins, the Rev. Virgil Turbyfill, the Rev. Sherman Wiseman and the Rev. Vaughn Albright officiating. Interment was in West View Cemetery. Kyker’s in charge.” _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, April 27, 1966, Page 10: “Mrs. Elvira Cline Welch, age 95 years, of Vonore passed away at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 12, 1966. Survivors: daughters, Mrs. Jerry Millsaps of Vonore; Mrs. James Lynch of Vonore; Mrs. Horace Cooper of Madisonville; Mrs. Ellis Lequire of Maryville; sons: Willie Welch of Maryville, Theodore Welch of Vonore; 26 grandchildren; 53 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren. Funeral was held 2 p.m. Friday, April 15, 1966, at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. Rev. James Patton and Rev. W.R. Williams officiated. Burial in church cemetery. Biereley’s in charge.” ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, November 25, 1954, Page 1: “Waitress Is Fatally Shot In Sweetwater Tavern On Saturday---The fatal shooting of a waitress in a Sweetwater beer tavern by her employer followed a quarrel between the two at about 10:45 Saturday night. J.E. Best, 56, operator of the Dixie Drive In, was arrested by Sweetwater Policemen Bob Pardue and Joe Wilson, charged with the murder of Mrs. Love Litton Ridge, 32, and placed in Monroe County Jail (Arraigned before Squire J.G. Engleman of Sweetwater, Wednesday morning, the accused man waived examination to Criminal Court and was placed under $12,500 bond, which he made). The only eyewitnesses to the shooting were Best’s son, Bobby, 17, and Ronnie Mizer, 11, who was helping him place beer in a refrigerator. Best, according to the boys, had telephoned another beer tavern located in Loudon County, slammed up the receiver, walked into the kitchen and said “The next time Ruth (a sister-in-law to Mrs. Ridge) comes in here, I’m going to have her put in jail.” The quarrel then started, the youths explained. Best finally shouting “Don’t you bring my family or my daughters into this!” The waitress was shot through the heart at close range, her clothing being powder-burned. She took a few steps and fell in front of a juke box, according to young Best, who added that his father then stood and repeated several times “Get up Love; come on, get up and quit fooling.” The youth said he took the .38 caliber revolver from his father’s hand, laid it on a counter, and gave the Mizer boy a dime with which to telephone the police. Then the boys left. Mrs. Ridge, who came to Sweetwater about three years ago from Indiana, is survived by her husband, Tom Ridge, a construction worker; her father, Jeff Jackson of Richmond, Indiana; four brothers and two sisters. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon in Kyker’s Chapel, Sweetwater. Burial was in Cloyd’s Creek Cemetery near Greenback.” Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, February 17, 1955, Page 1: “Trial In Killing Of Waitress Postponed---Trial of a Sweetwater man charged with the pistol killing of a waitress has been postponed. J.E. Best, 56, was to have gone on trial Wednesday at an adjourned session of the Criminal Court. Best, a tavern operator, was accused of shooting Mrs. Love Litton Ridge, 32, last Nov. 20. The trial was postponed due to the death on Sunday of M.V. Reed, 64-year-old brother-in-law of Attorney General R. Beecher Witt.” __________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, November 25, 1954, Page 1: “Funeral services for Oscar Wear, who was killed in a traffic accident near Johnson City last week, were held Sunday afternoon at Tellico Plains Baptist Church. Burial was in the Tellico Plains City Cemetery.” __________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, November 17, 1948, Page 1: “Man Held After Giving Self Up In Death Of Herman Shirk Near Vonore Monday---Herman Shirk, age 36, was found dead Sunday morning, near Vonore, by Mr. & Mrs. R.S. Howard of Madisonville, who saw the dead man as they drove along the road. Shirk had been shot seven times, six times through the chest and back and once through the head. Within a few hours Reed Lindsey came to the jail and gave himself up as having killed Shirk, but refused to make any further statements until the preliminary hearing, which is to be held Friday or Saturday. Mr. Shirk is survived by his wife and six children. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at Mt. Zion Church, burial being in the cemetery nearby.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, November 24, 1948, Page 1: “Reed Lindsey Is Held To Grand Jury In $5,000 Bond, Charged With Fatal Shooting---Reed Lindsey, 23, charged with murder in the shooting of Herman Shirk, 36, was bound to the grand jury under $5,000 bond at a preliminary hearing before Squires T.A. Upton and Bill Sloan. Lindsey had surrendered to officers at the jail after Shirk’s body, with seven bullet wounds, was found on the Mt. Zion Road near his home, not far from Vonore. He and Shirk had been seen together not long before the shooting, officers stated. The principal witnesses at the hearing were Mr. & Mrs. R.S. Howard, who found the body as they were driving to Vonore early Sunday. Lindsey did not testify. Shirk, a rock quarry worker, is survived by his wife and six children. Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 5, 1949, Page 1: “Criminal Court---Reed Lindsey, charged with killing Herman Shirk is to be tried Friday, January 14.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 12, 1949, Page 1: “Criminal Court---The case of Reed Lindsey, charged with the murder of Herman Shirk, is to be taken up Friday.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 19, 1949, Page 1: “Criminal Court---Reed Lindsey, charged with the murder of Herman Shirk, drew a maximum and minimum sentence of ten years.” ____________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 24, 1941, Page 3: “Mrs. J.R. Watson---Funeral services for Mrs. J.R. Watson, who died at her home in the Notchey Creek community on Wednesday of last week, were held at Notchey Creek Church, of which she had been a member since childhood. The services were conducted by Revs. W.G. Smiley, H.P. Boatman, Fred Thompson and Horace Atkins. Burial was in the cemetery there. Surviving are her husband and the following children: Mrs. J.W. Newman; Dewey, Paul, Joe and Earl Watson; Mrs. Maggie Watson, Miss Genola Watson; Lawrence, R.C., Theodore and Pryor Lee Watson. A daughter, Nellie, died in infancy. Mrs. Watson was 57 years of age and was well known and loved by a large number of friends.” ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 19, 1944, Page 1: “Dead After Shooting In McMinn County---Jack Watson is dead and two sons, William and Quince, were reported in a serious condition from gunshot wounds following an affray near their home in the Mecca community, four miles from Englewood, early Saturday morning. The slain father was 51 years of age, the sons are 29 and 27 respectively. The shootings were said to have followed a dispute over some lumber. Sheriff Pat Mansfield of McMinn County arrested Willie Watkins of Vonore, at Madisonville. Officers took Watkins to Athens, where he was charged with murder and placed in jail without bond. One of the sons, William Watson, shot in the chest and leg, was taken to Epperson Hospital, Athens. The other, Quince, shot in the throat, was taken to a throat specialist in Cleveland.” __________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 2, 1945, Page 1: “Madisonville Route 5---Friends extend sympathy to Mr. Jack Watson and family in the death of their son and brother, Theodore, who gave his life for his country. May God comfort and sustain them in this dark hour.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 2, 1945, Page 2: “With Our Boys In Service---Mrs. J.W. Newman has received a telegram telling of the death of her brother, Theodore Watson, who was previously reported as missing in action in Germany.” __________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 1, 1941, Page 1: “Eve Mills Mule Was Quite A Character---Eve Mills once owned a famous mule, known as Ned. Col. William J. Fowler was supposed to own the mule, but really he belonged to the community. Someone was frequently calling for Ned; he was in good demand the year round. Col. Fowler was always glad to accommodate his neighbors. The mule knew more than some men about plowing, so when a neighbor boy reached plowing age, his father came to borrow Ned to teach his boy to plow. All summer he served in this capacity. When molasses-making time arrived, no mule could pull the mill like Ned; so he was kept busy at this job for many weeks. Sad to note, he contracted blood poison at this job. He got a foot hurt during the summer and when grinding time came, it became infected and blood poison was the result. He “passed over the river.” Ned made a number of trips to Texas when families moved out there in wagons. His first trip was to help move the Airheart family. They just couldn’t adjust themselves to Western ways and decided to return to the “blue hills of Tennessee,” consequently hitched to Ned and his buddy to the wagon and returned to Monroe, “the land of milk and honey.” They sold Ned to a Mr. Brakebill, who had a longing to go West. He drove Ned to his wagon and made the journey. He also became dissatisfied and pined for his beloved Tennessee, likewise returning, bringing Ned as one of his team. Again, Ned was sold to a Mr. Vincent, who became a victim of the Western fever and the novelty of going in a wagon. Really this mode of transportation was all we had at that time. Ned’s service was again in demand. By this time Ned was so well trained in traveling Westward that he required little guidance; he knew the roads, for at that time there were no so many highways. This family could not become reconciled to the rough ways of frontier life, and the many blessings and advantages of dear old Tennessee grew more desirable daily---so they returned. Ned was harnessed again and headed Eastward. This family, when they got back, sold Ned to Col. William Fowler. Some who seem to know Ned’s history say he was the property of Col. Fowler before he made his first trip. We do know he died on the Fowler farm, and a great demonstration was made over his death---for all the little boys were distressed about a plow mule and one to grind cane at molasses time.” ---Eunice. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, April 18, 1934, Page 3: “W.T. Norris (Uncle Billy) died at his home at Mt. Vernon, Tuesday morning after a lingering illness. Funeral services will be held this morning (Wednesday) from the home at 9:00 o’clock, with interment following in the cemetery at Maynardville, Tenn. He is survived by his widow and four children, Mrs. Grady Sitzlar, Linton, Miss Ruth and Miss Kate Norris, all of Mt. Vernon.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 2, 1934, Page 1: “In Loving Memory---Our long loved friend, W.T. Norris of Mt. Vernon, departed this life Monday evening, April 6, 1934, after several months sickness. Our friend was a native of Union County, Tenn. After nearly 30 years of his youthful life spent in Union County he, by some means best known to our Creator, guided down to our county, Monroe, where he married Miss Lola Ervin. To this union was born two children, one girl, now Mrs. Grady Sitzlar, one boy, Lyton. In August 1907, his wife, Lola, departed this life. He afterward married Miss Della Ervin. To this union was born two children, Misses Ruth and Kathryn Norris. Twenty-five years ago, Bill, as he was called, professed faith in Christ and joined the Eleazar Campground Methodist Church. The writer has traveled many paths with Bill in the last 25 years over hills and mountains, across brooks and valleys. If Bill had a good thing to tell he always revealed it to me. It gives us heartaches to give up a friend and companion like our deceased brother, but it must needs be. So let us look forward and bear our sorrows with patience that we, too, may say, as our brother has said, I am ready to depart this life in peace. Personally, I know that Bill loved the good old revival days. He did not have to tell me in words, but action spoke so loud. It was inspiring to see the spirit filled man’s cup running over with joy. As nature burst forth the buds in the springtime, so also would our brother burst forth with joy. Our friend was in bad health for two years or more. He could do little but look into the future or back into the past. I don’t think he (even though he did endure pain) thought much of the present, save only for others. But in his yesterdays he must have thought much. I believe he went back to the days when day after day he drove his father’s shingle wagon over the up and down road to Knoxville. I believe he went back where he had made innumerable youthful footsteps over green fields and woodlands near his old home. Yes, and back by the old mill wheel where he helped his father work day by day, and into the old home where father and mother, brothers and sisters, spent the best of this life. After the death of our dear friend, and the spirit had returned to the giver, the body was taken back to the old home burial ground in Union County and placed under a giant oak by his father and mother. Bill was a good husband and father. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends, and may God’s blessings rest upon you all. A Friend, R.F. Sitzlar Mt. Vernon, Tenn. ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, November 27, 1940, Page 2: “Burton Hill---We are sorry to note the death of the little four-year old child of Mr. Lew Green, which occurred last week. The child’s clothing caught fire and death resulted the same evening. The parents have the sympathy of all their neighbors in the surrounding communities. The little one was laid to rest in New Hope Cemetery to await the coming of its father and mother.” __________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, January 7, 1960, Page 1: “Local Hunter Killed In Accident During Christmastime. Son Mistakenly Fires---A Monroe County man was accidentally shot and killed while hunting Dec. 26. He was Calvin Rose, 32, of Madisonville, Route 3. A relative said Mr. Rose was shot while behind bushes by a shot fired from a 22-caliber rifle given his 12-year-old son, Jimmy, for Christmas. The accident occurred near Mentor community, Blount County. Mr. Rose was taken to Blount Memorial at Maryville and then his body was taken to Tallent Funeral Home in Lenoir City. Mr. Rose had gone rabbit hunting with the son and with a brother, Cory. The little boy did not see his father behind the bushes, relatives said. The shot hit the father in the abdomen. He called to his brother to come to him. Mr. Rose is survived by his wife, the former Mary Ruth Tuck of Lenoir City, Route 3, four children, his parents, Mr. & Mrs. W.W. Rose of Loudon, and a brother. He was a crane operator and worked in Knoxville.” _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, August 29, 1963, Page 1: “Young Father Killed In Crash---Charles B. Chambers was killed instantly on Saturday night when the car he was driving went out of control and slammed into a utility pole, overturning on Highway 72 between Loudon and Vonore. Survivors include wife, Annie Kirkland Chambers; son, Henry Lee; daughter, Sharon, all of Route 4, Vonore; brothers, Bobby of California, Billy of Vonore; sisters, Mrs. J.B. Bowers of California, Polly and Janette, both at home; parents, Mr. & Mrs. Buck Chambers of Route 4, Vonore. Services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Fork Creek Baptist Church, Rev. Billy Joe McCowan officiating. Interment in church cemetery.” _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 24, 1968, Page 1: “Mrs. Luther J. Mitchell Died Monday Night---Mrs. Pearl Brooks Mitchell, 79, of Maryville, formerly of Madisonville, died Monday at Blount Memorial Hospital. Survivors include the husband, Luther J. Mitchell of Asbury Acres, Maryville; sons, Lt. Col. Orren R. Mitchell of Louisville, Route 2, Ralph B. Mitchell of Fayetteville; a sister, Mrs. Carl Moser of Maryville; brother, Virgil Brooks of Maryville; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Wednesday (today) at 4 p.m. at Biereley Hale Chapel in Madisonville. The Rev. James Lindsey and the Rev. Daniel L. Jones will officiate. Interment will be in Sunset Cemetery.” _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 1, 1936, Page 2: “Corntassel---Mr. Jim Hicks died very suddenly last week and was buried at Hopewell. He lived near Huling (better known as Soak). We do not know his age but he was an old man. He leaves two sons, George and James and three daughters, Mrs Dink Henderson, Lucy Hicks and Deedie Howard, to mourn the loss of a father, the mother having passed years ago.” _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 11, 1969, Page 1: “Former Monroe Countians Drown In Conasauga---Three members of a former Monroe County family drowned Sunday afternoon while wading in the Conasauga River, about seven miles south of Benton, sheriff’s deputies reported. The victims were identified as James Lethcoe, 36, and his daughters, Brenda, 12, and Jeanette, 11, who just recently moved to Polk County from Tellico Plains. The drowning occurred about 2 p.m. as the members of the family were wading in a remote section of the river near the Conasauga community. One of the girls, who was not identified, stepped into deep water and the other daughter went to her rescue, residents of the area said. Neither of the girls was able to swim and the father, who also couldn’t swim, attempted to save his daughters. All three went down in an area near an L. & N. Railway trestle. James F. Browder, one of three persons who recovered the bodies, said he and several other men were at a dirt airport when an unidentified boy ran to them and told him of the drownings. He said the victims were already dead by the time he and other men recovered the bodies. A man who lives near the scene said the river is about 16 feet deep and 100 feet wide where the drowning occurred. Lescoe was the father of seven children and was employed at the Conasauga Lumber Co. Mrs. Lethcoe and another daughter were treated for shock at Bradley County Memorial Hospital. The bodies were taken to Buckner Funeral Home in Cleveland. Mrs. Aria Williams, mother of Mrs. Lethcoe, who lives in Tellico Plains, said her daughter tried to help in the rescue and that a daughter, Gladys, helped her to shore. She said the names of the seven surviving children, in addition to Gladys, are Faye, Button, Alma Lee, Vernon, Teresa and Verleen. Mr. Lethcoe is survived by brothers, Gerald of near Vonore, and Doyle of Georgia; sisters Norma Williams and Shirley Williams of Tellico Plains and Glenora Greenlee of Knoxville.” ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, April 4, 1957, Page 1: “Ohio Driver Is Freed In Fatal 411 Traffic Mishap---A manslaughter charge against William Anderson, 68, of Cleveland, Ohio, was dismissed Wednesday afternoon at the request of the plaintiff’s attorney, Eugene Pennington. Mr. Anderson, arrested by State Highway Trooper Wallace Mills and held under $2,500 bond, had been charged in the traffic death on Saturday of Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Yates, 69, who died instantly when she was struck by the car driven by Mr. Anderson. The accident occurred near the home of Mrs. Yates, two and one half miles south of Madisonville and about 100 feet from Maxwell’s Grocery on Englewood Highway. Mr. Anderson said at the hearing that the elderly lady had stopped near a driveway and paused briefly before starting across Highway 411 into the path of his car. Officers added that the Anderson vehicle had been driven into a ditch, apparently in an effort to avoid the accident. Trooper Mills said Mrs. Yates had purchased groceries at the store and had started across the highway when the Anderson vehicle came over the crest of a grade and struck her. Death was attributed to multiple skull, pelvic and leg fractures. Mrs. Yates is survived by two sons, Bob W. Yates of Tellico Plains and Clarence Yates of Maryville; four daughters, Mrs. G.C. Hunt and Mrs. Myrtle Neece of Knoxville, Mrs. Carl Hampton of Lenoir City and Mrs. Lewis Greene of Madisonville; 15 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; a brother, Bob Henry of near Vonore, and a sister, Mrs. John Tyler of Loudon. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at Friendship Baptist Church, Revs. Kenneth Watson and Herbert McKeehan officiating. Burial was in New Providence Cemetery.” ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, April 24, 1958, Page 10: “Ebenezer---Mr. & Mrs. George Cowden of Louisville, Kentucky, were called here last week by the death of Mr. Cowden’s mother, Mrs. Martha Jane West. Several from this community attended the funeral of Mrs. Martha Jane West on Friday at Maples Springs Baptist Church on Bullet Creek.” ---Dollie Holcomb. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, October 13, 1948, Page 1: “Hugh E. Brookshire Dies At Vonore---Hugh E. Brookshire, age 70, died at the home of his son in Vonore, Sunday evening. He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. A.R. Isbill of Asheville, North Carolina; four sons, H.R. Brookshire of New York, Floyd of Maryville, Brunner and Hugh B. of Vonore; three brothers, Alfred of Pontiac, Michigan; John and Jim of Texas; two half-brothers, Roy of Lenoir City and Charlie of Vonore; one half-sister, Mrs. Nora York of Lenoir City. Funeral services and burial were at Vonore.” ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, April 28, 1955, Page 1: “George T. Yarberry, 69, of Sweetwater, died Monday at Sweetwater Hospital. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Janie Caughron Yarberry; seven daughters, Mrs. Estelle Seymour of Mississippi, Mrs. Lela Ferguson and Mrs. Ella Ray Clark of Niota, Mrs. Ruby Greenleaf of Arizona, Mrs. Ruth McDonald of Riceville, Mrs. Trula Richesin and Mrs. Mary Chambers of Sweetwater; two sons, George T. Jr. of Houston, Texas, and James E. of Sweetwater; his step-mother, four sisters and three brothers.” ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 12, 1925, Page 2: “In Memory Of Miss Rosa Tyler---July 21, 1925, the sweet and gentle spirit of Rosa, youngest daughter of Mr. James Tyler, peacefully took its flight to that “House not made with hands.” For the last 2 ½ years she had been in school at Etowah, Tennessee, where, by her pure character and gentle manners she had won a host of friends. As the gardener watches his rosebuds, until they grow into the half-blown rose, then he plucks them to adorn the house; so the Master plucked this sweet, half-blown rose to shed her fragrance in His mansions in the skies. To the sorrowing family our hearts go out in deepest sympathy, for Rosa’s life voyage is over and the ship has anchored in the port of everlasting peace, and there may we moor our own bark and meet Rosa and her Pilot face to face on the other shore. The funeral services were conducted by Dr. J.E. Lowry and the body laid to rest in Hiwassee Cemetery. We’ll meet thee Rosa, later on Where all sweet angels dwell, Meet thee in Heaven’s eternal dawn, ‘Till then, sweet Rosa, farewell. ---I. Lee R. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 30, 1946, Page 2: In Memory Of Theodore Watson Our country called for Theodore And so he had to leave All his friends and loved ones Broken-hearted here to grieve. The last farewells were spoken As he left for a foreign shore, Looking back at loved ones’ faces He would see here nevermore. But he’d sought his loving Saviour Far back in the days of youth; He was ready for departure, Armed with God’s undying truth. ‘Twas the nearest road to Heaven, Though he rode the ocean’s foam To a flaming field of battle, Then away to home, sweet home. Leaving there his war-like rifle, Leaving all his troubles there, He went home to his Redeemer Where he’ll never know a care. There were mother, friends and loved ones There to greet him on that shore; Why should we be sad about him? He will suffer there no more. Though you spend a lifetime weeping, Weeping till your eyes are dim, He to us can never return, But we can go to him. ---A Friend. Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, November 24, 1948, Page 1: “Body Of PFC Theodore Watson Being Returned---Mr. J.R. Watson has been notified by telegram that his son, Pfc. Theodore L. Watson, who was killed in action in Germany on April 3, 1945, is being returned from Holland. Theodore entered the service on Dec. 9, 1943, and received his basic training at Fort McClellan, Alabama and Breckenridge, Kentucky; reporting for overseas duty in September 1944 with Co. F. 117th Inf., 30th (Old Hickory) Division. He was a member of Notchey Creek Baptist Church.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, December 1, 1948, Page 1: “The body of Pfc. Theodore L. Watson, age 20, of Madisonville, who was killed in Germany on April 3, 1945, while serving in Co. F. 117th Inf., of the First Army, is arriving in Madisonville on Friday, Dec. 3, at 3:10 p.m. He is survived by his father, Jack R. Watson; brothers, Paul, Joe S., Earlene, R.C., Lawrence and Pryor, and one half-brother, Doyle Watson; sisters, Mrs. Raymond Watson, Mrs. J.W. Newman and Mrs. G. C. Turpin, all of Madisonville. Funeral services will be held on Sunday afternoon at Notchey Creek Baptist Church, Revs. Conward Cline, Horace Atkins and J.E. Vaughn officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Kyker in charge.” _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, December 24, 1941, Page 1: “Funeral For W.M. Hamby Is Held At Union Grove---Funeral services for W.M. Hamby, retired farmer of the Ivy community, were held on Monday at Union Grove Church, burial following in the cemetery there. Mr. Hamby was 79 years of age. He passed away on Saturday at Erlanger Hospital, Chattanooga. He is survived by two daughters, Amanda Lee and Lela Hamby; several sons, W.L., J.V., C.H., J.A., L.B., D.A. and D.B. Hamby, all of the Ivy community; 30 grandchildren and 12 great- grandchildren.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 7, 1942, Page 4: “In Memory---In loving memory of William Messer Hamby, who on Dec. 20, 1941, quit the walks of man, that the will of God might be accomplished, we dedicate these few words. We join with friends and relatives in mourning the departure of a just, upright man and Mason, believing he always walked and lived in the spirit of true Masonry. We look forward with confidence for a glad reunion in that home not made by hands, where Brother Hamby has gone to live eternally with the Grand Architect of all things.” Brown Hill Lodge 613 F. & A.M. Jalapa, Tenn. Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 1, 1949, Page 6: “Ironsburg---We are sorry to learn that our old friend and neighbor, Mr. Frank Hamby, was killed in the Ducktown mines on Friday.” _________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, December 17, 1959, Page 1: “Mrs. Mollie Toomey Sharp, 85, succumbed at Blount Memorial Hospital, Maryville, at 4:20 a.m. Monday. She was the widow of the later Robert Parson Sharp. Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Homer Webb of Maryville; eight sons, Robert, Virgil and Frank Sharp of Maryville, Guy, Horace and Reed of Madisonville, Albert of Etowah and Earl of Clarksville; a brother, Dee Toomey of Canal Fulton, Ohio; 26 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Funeral services took place Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Big Creek Baptist Church, Rev. Hoyt Shadden, Rev. John Stakely and Rev. W.G. Smiley officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery.” _________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, May 15, 1968, Page 8: “Former Tellico Resident Died In Oregon---A former Tellico Plains resident, T.T. (Trav) Phillips, passed away suddenly at North Bend, Oregon on May 2. He is survived by his wife and three children of North Bend; two brothers, P.L. Phillips of Chattanooga; Leonard of Columbus, Ohio; two sisters, Mrs. Maldon Lee of Sweetwater and Mrs. Margaret Lovin of Harriman. Mr. P.L. (Eldon) Phillips, Mrs. Lee and Mrs. Lovin have returned from North Bend where they went by jet to attend funeral services.” _______________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, September 23, 1954, Page 1: “Mrs. Gibby Dies At Home Of Daughter In North Carolina---Mrs. J.T. (Florence) Gibby, 88, died Sunday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. H.A. Hyde, in Hazel, North Carolina. Survivors include nine sons; Weaver and Homer of Montana, Earl of Knoxville, Doc of Bryson City, NC, Gather, George, Edgar, Gordon and Benson of Madisonville; two daughters, Mrs. Hyde of North Carolina and Mrs. Ross Isbill of Athens; 67 grandchildren, 62 great-grandchildren and three sisters. Funeral services and burial occurred Tuesday afternoon at the Rocky Springs Baptist Church.” Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, September 30, 1954, Page 6: “In Loving Memory of Mother Gibby---On Sunday afternoon, September 19, the Angel of Death enetered our home and put to an end the happy, earthly life of our dear mother, Florence Elizabeth Gibby. Mother Gibby was born November 3, 1876, being 87 years, 9 months and 19 days old at the time of her death. She had been ill for several months and everything had been done for her that loving hands could do. But God, in His great wisdom, saw fit to call her Home. We grieved to giver her up, but we know our loss was Heaven’s gain. A member of Rocky Springs Baptist Church, she was married to J.T. Gibby, and to this union were born 13 children, three of which preceded her in death. Survivors include 10 children, Weaver, Homer, Earl, Edgar, Gordon, Venson, Dock and Gaither Gibby, Mrs. Volma Hyde and Mrs. Carmine Isbill; one brother, Dock Byrd; three sisters, Mrs. Rose Smith, Mrs. Tim Hollman and Mrs. Fannie Sellars; 67 grandchildren and 62 great-grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. She was loved by all who knew her, and if we all live as she did, we will meet her some day. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. George Watson, assisted by Rev. W.G. Smiley. Her remains were laid to rest in the Rocky Springs Cemetery. Biereley’s of Madisonville in charge. She is gone, but not forgotten To the Home beyond the sky, And some day we hope to meet her In the sweet by and by. Written by a daughter-in-law, ---Sarah Gibby. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, February 8, 1967, Page 2: “Mrs. George W. Laney, age 86, of Madisonville, died at 3 p.m. Sunday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Dee Cook. Survivors: four daughters, Mrs. Dee Cook, Mrs. Hettie Cole, Mrs. Shirley Harris, Mrs. Maudie Ritchey all of Madisonville; two sons, Charles and Willard Laney, both of Madisonville; 31 grandchildren; 56 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Eva Davis of Gastonia, North Carolina. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Rev. Chester Millsaps and Rev. James Patton officiating. Interment in church cemetery. Kyker’s in charge.” ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, November 2, 1921, Page 3: “Tellico Plains, Route One---Several from this route attended the funeral of Mr. Lewis Sweet on Monday, his remains being buried at New Providence.” _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 2, 1945, Page 2: “Surrenders To Father, Who Is Deputy Sheriff; Held In Killing---Dewey Watson was found dead in the barn lot at his home near Eleazar, Wednesday morning. Mr. Watson was about 42 years old. Wilford Harris, a nephew by marriage, voluntarily surrendered to his father, Deputy Sheriff Avery Harris, and was placed in jail pending a preliminary hearing which likely will be held Friday or Saturday.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 9, 1945, Page 1: “Dewey Watson Buried At Notchey Creek---Mr. Dewey Watson was buried at Notchey Creek on Saturday afternoon after funeral services conducted by Rev. J.E. Vaughn. Mr. Watson was 44 years of age. Surviving are his wife, four daughters and two sons.” Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 23, 1945, Page 1: “In Loving Memory Of Mr. Dewey Watson---The sad hour of death hovered around the home of Mr. & Mrs. Dewey Watson on May 1, 1945, and claimed as its victim, Dewey, who was killed in the late evening at his home near Eleazar. Dewey was born on March 20, 1901, being 44 years, one month and 11 days old at the time of his death. He was married to Lora Harris, and to this union were born eight children: Mrs. Glee Clemmer of Maryville; Mrs. Clarence Belcher of Clinton; Miss Katherine Watson of Sanford, Florida; Barbara Jean, Vira Delosia, Jack, Johnnie and Jimmy all of Madisonville; his father, Mr. J.R. Watson; three sisters, Mrs. J.W. Newman, Mrs. G.C.Turpin and Mrs. Raymond Watson all of Madisonville; six brothers, Paul, Joe, Earleen, Pryor Lee and John all of Madisonville, and Lawrence Hodge Watson stationed with the Navy at Great Lakes, Illinois. One brother, Private First Class Theodore L. Watson preceded him in death while serving his country in Germany on April 3, with the Army. Dewey was a kind-hearted man who worked hard and tried to earn an honest living. He was loved by all his associates. He was a kind husband and a loving father. “To know him was to love him,” for he always met his friends with a smile, and he numbered them by his acquaintances. Dewey, it was sad when we learned you had crossed the mystic sea of death, although we would have loved to soothe and comfort you in your last moments. We hear your gentle voice no more and it breaks our hearts, but you have gone on before us, and may God help us to walk in the narrow way to that home now awaiting us. How could we stand beside the grave and see the covering over you were it not for this comforting thought: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you….I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye be also may be.” Dewey was converted at an early age and served as Superintendent of the Notchey Creek Baptist Sunday School for two years. He was surely inspired by the Lord, for he made some very pretty, soul-stirring talks while serving in that capacity. Pallbearers were Homer Watson and five of his brothers: Joe, Pryor Lee, Earleen, Lawrence and John. The flower girls were nieces of the deceased: Geneva Harrill, Lena Turpin, Genette Watson, Joyce Watson, Hazel and Luna Mae Newman. The flowers were many and beautiful. Funeral services were conducted on May 5 at Notchey Creek Baptist Church by Revs. J.E. Vaughn and H.P. Boatman. Burial was in the church cemetery.” ---A friend, Mrs. Arnold Watson. _____________________________________________________________________________________________